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JAECOO J8 Launched in Malaysia: Defining Off Road First Class

First 6-Seater Flagship SUV From OMODA I JAECOO Engineered With Sophistication And Signature Off-Road Capability

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 July 2025 — OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia today launched the eagerly anticipated JAECOO J8 SUV representing the pinnacle of prestige, technological innovation, and all-terrain capability from the OMODA | JAECOO stable.

“Defined by four simple words—‘Off Road First Class’— the JAECOO J8 captures the essence and ambition of OMODA | JAECOO – delivering vehicles that redefine expectations in their segment while creating exceptional ownership journeys,” said OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia Vice President, Emily Lek.

“Marking exactly one year since the launch of the popular J7, the JAECOO J8 will now define a new altitude of technology, performance and adventure for the OMODA | JAECOO brand while still keeping with the ethos of attainable luxury. We celebate this anniversary with over 17,000 vehicles now on Malaysian roads. We’re deeply grateful for the continued support from our customers across Malaysia,” she added.

A FLAGSHIP DESIGN FOR THE MODERN EXPLORER

Measuring 4,820 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, and 1,710 mm in height with a generous 2,820 mm wheelbase, the JAECOO J8 offers a commanding presence and a spacious, well-proportioned cabin.

The JAECOO J8’s design is defined by the striking Waterfall front grille — a cascading motif that delivers presence while optimising airflow for cooling efficiency. Bold yet refined, the J8’s exterior features clean lines and a golden-ratio silhouette, accentuated by a distinctive waistline that creates a strong upright stance.

Meanwhile, hidden door handles further contribute to its streamlined profile while reducing aerodynamic drag and wind noise. The JAECOO J8’s dynamism is further highlighted with dual-tone 20-inch alloy wheels.

THE PINNACLE OF OFF-ROAD ABILITY

Under its muscular hood, the JAECOO J8 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged, direct-injected inline four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 183 kW and 385 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Power is delivered to the front wheels (2WD variant) or via an advanced all-wheel-drive system offering intelligent torque vectoring, ensuring confident traction and stability across dynamic terrains.

The JAECOO J8 2WD completes the 0–100 km/h sprint in 8.8 seconds, while the AWD variant takes 9.0 seconds. Both versions have a top speed of 200 km/h. Meanwhile, fuel economy is rated at 7.8L/100km (WLTP standard) for the 2WD variant and 8.1L/100km (WLTP) for the AWD variant.

Fortifying its “Off Road First Class” claim, the JAECOO J8’s powertrain is calibrated for enhanced thermal management and fuel efficiency, prioritising long-term durability—especially for high-load and off-road driving conditions.

Further elevating comfort levels, the JAECOO J8 is equipped with a Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension system that seamlessly delivers comfort and control, adjusting the suspension within milliseconds depending on terrain and traction requirements.

FIRST CLASS TRAVEL, REGARDLESS OF TERRAIN

Inspired by first-class travel, the JAECOO J8 AWD variant features a refined six-seater layout (2+2+2 configuration), while the 2WD variant adopts a five-seater design, prioritising boot space for everyday versatility.

The JAECOO J8 AWD model provides 200 litres of boot space with the third row upright. With the third-row folded flat (in the J8 AWD), both variants unlock 738 litres of boot space, expanding up to 2,021 litres in the 2WD variant (second-row folded flat) — offering ample room for luggage or adventure essentials.

Once inside, the JAECOO J8 further reveals a harmonious blend of technology, and minimalist luxury. At the heart of the sleek wraparound dashboard architecture are twin 12.3-inch widescreen displays, and a wide Head-Up Display (HUD) designed for convenience and intuitive control, complemented by wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.

Taking seating comfort a step further, the J8 AWD variant features a first-in-class Queen’s front passenger seat with adjustable leg support, as well as Heated, Ventilated, Massage, and Memory (HVMM) seats for the driver, front passenger, and second-row occupants.

Complementing this is a microfiber headliner and a customisable 256-colour Infinite Ambient Lighting system, allowing drivers to tailor the cabin ambience to their preference.

The large central console further adds convenience with ample storage and a 50W wireless smartphone charger with built-in cooling — keeping you connected and organised.

Audiophiles will appreciate the premium audio systems tailored for each variant: a 12-speaker Sony system for the J8 2WD, and 14-speaker Sony setup with headrest speakers in the J8 AWD, delivering a rich, immersive listening experience.

Meanwhile, an NFC-based keyless entry, built-in fragrance system, and built-in Digital Video Recorder (DVR) further enhance comfort and safety in the JAECOO J8.

The SUV is equipped with an advanced Level 2.5 ADAS suite inclusive of full speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Driver Monitoring System (DMS), Lane Change Assistance (LCA), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), and Forward Distance Monitoring (FDM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Event Data Recorder (EDR) and Fully Automatic Parking in the AWD variant.

Complementing this is the OneBox brake-by-wire system, seamlessly integrated into the J8’s ADAS safety architecture, which has been specially calibrated for the vehicle’s proportions and driving dynamics.

The JAECOO J8 will be locally assembled at the Chery Corporate Malaysia Factory in Shah Alam—underscoring the brand’s long-term commitment to consumers across Malaysia and its contribution to the national automotive ecosystem.

In line with OMODA | JAECOO’s values of attainable luxury, the ‘Off-Road First Class’ J8 2WD is priced from RM178,800, while the J8 AWD starts from RM198,800.                 

As part of an exclusive Early Bird offer, customers who book their JAECOO J8 on or before 21st July 2025 will be entitled to the JAECOO Prime Protection Programme, which includes complimentary insurance coverage for one year (excluding windscreen and optional add-on benefits).

This package also extends the standard 7-year/150,000km warranty with an upgraded 10-year/unlimited mileage engine warranty — a bold assurance of lasting performance. To celebrate the spirit of exploration embodied in the JAECOO J8 flagship SUV, early supporters will also receive a specially curated offroad experience, befitting a new altitude of luxury and adventure. Terms and conditions apply.

Customer deliveries of the JAECOO J8 AWD are set to commence in July 2025, followed by the 2WD variant entering production thereafter.

ABC President Indonesia launches Nü Matcha Lattea to ride matcha wave

PT ABC President Indonesia, the company behind Green Tea, has introduced a refreshing new entrant to the ready-to-drink tea category: Matcha Lattea.

Developed in response to the rapidly growing global matcha trend, this innovative beverage blends the vibrant essence of authentic Japanese matcha with the creamy appeal of a latte, offering a modern take on traditional tea rituals. Packaged in a convenient RTD format, NU Matcha Lattea is designed to meet the evolving tastes of consumers seeking both premium quality and on-the-go indulgence.

Prior to the launch of Nü Matcha Lattea, the most recent innovation from the brand was Nü Lychee Ice Tea.

Indofood CBP debuts POP Spageti and revamps Pop Mie

Indofood CBP has officially launched POP Spageti, presenting a refined take on instant pasta with two flavour-forward variants: Spicy Bolognese and Spicy Carbonara.

Each serving is made from premium durum wheat semolina, delivering an optimal al dente texture, and is further enriched with a savoury combination of cheddar and romano cheeses, complemented by crispy beef garnishes and a distinct spicy kick. This innovative offering represents a significant enhancement to traditional instant pasta, combining gourmet quality with everyday convenience.

Instant food companies in Indonesia are turning their focus toward the pasta category. They aim to deliver convenient yet restaurant-style meals at home at a more accessible price point for everyday consumers.

In another development, Indofood CBP has introduced a fresh identity for its iconic instant cup noodle brand, Pop Mie, now rebranded as Pop Mie Lapeer Time. The name “Lapeer” cleverly plays on the Indonesian word laper, meaning “hungry”—reinforcing Pop Mie’s role as the go-to solution for quick and satisfying hunger relief. This rebrand aims to deepen the emotional connection with consumers while modernizing the brand’s appeal.

Pop Mie Lapeer Time now comes in eco-friendly paper cup packaging, reflecting Indofood CBP’s commitment to greater sustainability.

Pop Mie Lapeer Time is available in six flavours: Kari Ayam, Ayam Bawang, Soto Ayam, Baso, Mi Goreng Spesial and Indomie Goreng.

Indofood CBP has previously rebranded Pop Mie Mini, a smaller-sized cup noodle, as Pop Mie Snek, offering a conveniently sized portion designed to satisfy light hunger and uplift consumers’ moods throughout the day.

TeKita Jasmine Tea by Indofood debuts in Indonesia

Indofood CBP has introduced TeKita Jasmine Tea in Indonesia, a ready-to-drink beverage presented in a convenient PET bottle format. With a formulation containing real sugar at 10.4g per 100ml, the drink provides a refreshing option.

This launch marks Indofood’s another move into the mainstream jasmine tea segment, an area where innovation remains limited and market growth continues to be driven primarily by volume.

ZUS Coffee and Green Rebel bring plant-based comfort food to over 200 East Coast outlets

Image by Green Rebel Foods

ZUS Coffee has partnered with Green Rebel Foods to offer a special menu of plant-based comfort dishes across more than 200 outlets in Malaysia’s East Coast, specifically in Terengganu, Kelantan and Pahang. The initiative to introduce plant-based dishes to a broader audience in Malaysia’s East Coast reflects the growing opportunity for healthier, plant-forward offerings in the region.

This limited-time collaboration launches on 23 June 2025, featuring a trio of satisfying meals that each contain fewer than 200 kcal, making them a delicious and nutritious option:

  • Nasi Rendang Padang
  • Rendang Spaghetti
  • Creamy Mushroom & Truffle Pasta

Green Rebel Food’s plant-based offerings are available in over 1,200 foodservice locations and more than 300 retail stores across Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and the Philippines.

Pokka Singapore refreshes with new passion fruit & lychee zero iced green tea flavours

Pokka Singapore has expanded its Zero Iced Green Tea range with two vibrant new flavours: Passion Fruit and Lychee. These join the existing lineup of Lemon and Peach, offering even more fruity variety. Each refreshing blend is sweetened with erythritol, acesulfame potassium and sucralose, delivering a drink with zero sugar and calories—a perfect guilt-free indulgence for any time of day.

 

Major Hotel Group Commits to Cage-Free Eggs, as Southeast Asia’s Hospitality Sector Shifts Toward Higher Animal Welfare Standards

Friday 18 July 2025 – Hotels across Asia are increasingly stepping up to meet global animal welfare standards, and ONYX Hospitality Group is the latest to join this growing movement. After dialogue with Sinergia Animal, an international animal protection NGO working in the Global South, ONYX Hospitality Group has committed to transitioning to cage-free eggs across its properties in Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka.

This commitment applies to the group’s flagship brands—Amari, Oriental Residence, and OZO—and marks a significant shift for Southeast Asia’s hospitality industry. The transition will begin in Thailand in 2025, with ONYX Hospitality Group aiming to achieve 50% cage-free sourcing by 2026 and reach 100% by 2027 across all committed markets.

“We see ONYX Hospitality Group’s announcement as a milestone for Southeast Asia’s hospitality sector. Cage-free is no longer a distant goal—it’s the baseline of what animal welfare should look like moving forward,” said Saneekan Rosamontri, Managing Director at Sinergia Animal Thailand.

Hens in battery cage systems are typically confined to spaces smaller than an A4 sheet of paper, unable to fully stretch their wings, walk, or express natural behaviors. These extreme confinement conditions cause severe physical and psychological suffering to millions of animals each year.

In a statement released on their social media platforms, ONYX Hospitality Group emphasized the importance of aligning ingredient sourcing with their values.

“We believe every ingredient tells a story,” the company stated. “That’s why we’re making a bold move, transitioning to cage-free eggs across all our properties.”

Commitment Driven by Ethical Hospitality Vision

According to Sukamal Mondal, Vice President of Operations and Sustainability at ONYX Hospitality Group, the decision reflects the company’s broader sustainability vision.

“At ONYX Hospitality Group, our commitment to Sustainability Crafted Hospitality means aligning luxury experiences with ethical, responsible practices,” he said. “Our transition to cage-free eggs is driven by a deep sense of responsibility — to advance animal welfare, meet the expectations of conscious travelers, and ensure that our sourcing practices support more humane and sustainable food systems. Cage-free eggs are more than an ingredient; they represent a step toward a compassionate future where hospitality choices create a positive impact.”

ONYX Hospitality Group hopes this step will catalyze broader change across the hospitality sector.

“Our cage-free commitment is more than an internal milestone — it’s a message to the broader hospitality sector that ethical sourcing and animal welfare can, and should, be part of standard operations,” Mondal added.

“We also see collaboration—not competition—as key to accelerating impact,” he continued. “By openly sharing our journey, the challenges we face, and the solutions we find, we hope to build momentum and contribute to a more compassionate, sustainable food system for all.”

A Broader Movement Toward Animal Welfare

Sinergia Animal has been working to raise public awareness about the cruelty of battery cages in Thailand since 2019. The organization combines public education with corporate engagement and uses tools like the Asia Cage-Free Tracker to promote transparency and ensure companies deliver on their promises. (More info at cagefreetracker.com.)

The cage-free movement is gaining strong momentum across Asia, with over 300 corporate commitments in the region, according to data from Chicken Watch, a global monitoring platform. With major food manufacturers, restaurant chains, and now hospitality leaders pledging to eliminate battery cages, ethical sourcing is no longer a niche—it’s fast becoming the new industry standard.

“The cage-free movement is no longer just an option—it’s a global shift,” said Saneekan. “We invite all food and hospitality companies in Thailand and across the region to join us. Together, we can build a food system that’s not only kinder to animals but also more aligned with the values of today’s consumers.”

 

#7DAYSKayaB just dropped! taste tradition with a twist

The limited-edition 7DAYS Croissant Kaya-Butter Pandan has officially landed in both Malaysia and Singapore, offering a delicious twist on local nostalgia.

Infused with the beloved flavours of kaya, butter, and fragrant pandan, this soft and flaky croissant delivers a richly creamy filling that evokes the warmth of traditional breakfasts—all wrapped in a convenient, grab-and-go format.

Perfect for a midday snack or a quick breakfast treat, this indulgent pastry is the ultimate blend of heritage and comfort, sure to delight fans of classic local flavours.

K-Pop Star Kim Mingyu helps SNICKERS shine in Asia

SNICKERS Oat Dark Chocolate Bar (38g) is a limited edition product now available at 7-Eleven in Singapore. Consumers can enjoy the same delicious SNICKERS taste they love now with 50% less sugar.

Image credit: SNICKERS Malaysia

SNICKERS has made a winning move by appointing Kim Mingyu, a member of the popular K-pop group SEVENTEEN, as its brand ambassador for Asia. His involvement has generated significant consumer interest and amplified brand visibility across the region.

Gardenia Singapore elevates everyday bread with luxurious thick toast brioche

Gardenia Singapore has proudly introduced its newest creation: the Thick Toast Brioche, a luxurious addition to its baked goods lineup. Crafted with premium Hokkaido butter and fresh eggs, this brioche loaf offers a rich, buttery flavour and an ultra-soft texture that melts effortlessly with every bite.

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