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200 Cafés And Counting: The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia Celebrates Its Grand Opening With A Drive-In Experience In Penang!

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Expanding customer convenience with a drive-in café at Caltex Batu Maung, Penang, offering premium handcrafted beverages with comfort and ease

Penang, 23rd December 2024 – The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia proudly marks a key milestone with the opening of its 200th café, strategically located at Caltex Batu Maung, Penang, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the premium coffee and tea space. This new location reinforces the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and increased customer convenience.

The café at Caltex Batu Maung underscores The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia’s vision of providing convenient access to premium beverages, catering to customers who value comfort and efficiency. The drive-in concept offers designated parking spots for customers, allowing them to enjoy their favorite handcrafted drinks with ease while minimizing wait times.

Datuk M. Amar Shah, Managing Director of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia, shared, “The opening of our 200th café is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to the trust and loyalty we’ve built with our customers over the years. As we expand into Batu Maung, our focus remains on delivering quality in every cup, alongside accessible solutions like our drive-in café to better serve our customers’ evolving needs. This café represents our commitment to providing an elevated and seamless experience, whether for a quick coffee stop or a leisurely break.”

The 2,100-square feet café features a spacious seating area, including a community table for eight, tables and seatings capable of accommodating up to 86 customers and visitors. Paying tribute to the brand’s Southern Californian roots, the café’s design incorporates a bright, welcoming ambience that invites relaxation and connection.

Enhancing the Customer Experience with the MyCBTL App

As part of its ongoing efforts to elevate the customer experience, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia has also launched the MyCBTL App in Penang on 7th November 2024. Designed to simplify and enhance how customers enjoy their favorite handcrafted beverages, the app provides features such as personalized offers, special promotions, and seamless ordering. Whether rushing between meetings or walking in to enjoy some downtime, the app ensures greater convenience and accessibility, reflecting the brand’s commitment to making every coffee and tea moment more enjoyable.

Celebrate the 200th Café with Exclusive Opening Promotions

To commemorate this achievement, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia is excited to present a series of promotions exclusively available at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®, Caltex Batu Maung from 19th December to 28th December 2024:

  1. Buy 1 Free 1: Valencia Orange Cold Brew Tea with Tonic Water.
  2. FREE Polar Bean Bunny: With a minimum spend of RM100, while stocks last.
  3. Pyramid Tea Bag Giveaway: Receive a free tea bag with every purchase. [The first ten customers, for the first ten days, are entitled to two (2) tea bags each.]

*These promotions are not valid with other ongoing promotions or discounts, and all products are subject to availability, while stocks last.

For 200 cafés and counting, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia continues to set the standard for premium handcrafted beverages, blending innovation with top-notch customer experience.

Cheers to the Holidays: Enjoy Special Seasonal Drinks

In addition to the exciting opening promotions, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia is thrilled to introduce its festive Holiday Drinks, spreading the holiday cheer in every sip. As the Original Creators of Ice Blended®, the brand is celebrating the season with limited-time beverages that are truly one-of-a-kind.

Indulge in the Black Forest Mocha Ice Blended® (starting from: small RM18.90, regular RM19.90), a cherry-chocolate-coffee treat, or the Black Forest Vanilla Ice Blended® (starting from: small RM18.90, regular RM19.90) for a delightful cherry-chocolate-vanilla twist. For mint lovers, the Double Chocolate Peppermint Latte, available hot or iced (starting from: small RM16.90, regular RM17.90), Double Chocolate Peppermint Ice Blended® (starting from: small RM17.90, regular RM18.90), and Pure Double Chocolate Peppermint Ice Blended® (starting from: small RM17.90, regular RM18.90) is the perfect pairing of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint.

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia’s handcrafted beverages are truly original, making each moment of the season even more special. Don’t miss out—taste these seasonal creations while they last at your nearest café today!

The Caltex Batu Maung café begins operations on 19th December 2024, operating between 7am to 11pm from Monday to Sunday at Caltex, Jalan Batu Maung, Diamond Valley Industrial Park, 11960 Batu Maung, Pulau Pinang. For more information about the latest offerings from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® Malaysia, news and promotions, visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/CBTLMalaysiaPage, Instagram account @coffeebeanMY, TikTok account @coffeebeanMY, or website www.coffeebean.com.my.

Coway Pledges RM300,000 to Aid Malaysian Flash Flood Victims

By
Tan Heng Hong
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From left to right: Janice Tan, Group Manager of Marketing Division of Coway Malaysia, Ryan Jung, Head of Marketing and Product Division of Coway Malaysia, Dato’ Danial Iskandar Abd. Rahman, Deputy Secretary General of Malaysian Red Crescent, and Azril Abdul Manaf, Resource Mobilization and Sustainability Manager of Malaysian Red Crescent

A total of RM300,000 will be contributed in partnership with the Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) to support emergency relief and response for flood-affected communities

KUALA LUMPUR, 23 DECEMBER 2024 – Coway, the Best Life Solution Company, is stepping forward to support communities impacted by the recent flash floods with a donation of RM300,000. This contribution is part of Coway’s unwavering commitment to giving back to the community and fostering resilience in times of need.

In collaboration with the Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC), Coway is committed to providing immediate relief and assistance to those affected by the devastating floods, which have severely impacted areas such as Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah and beyond. Approximately 40,000 households—equivalent to 137,000 individuals—have been directly affected, highlighting the urgency for coordinated recovery efforts.

Coway’s long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) is at the heart of this initiative, reflecting its core value of caring for people. Thus, the relief efforts will extend to 45 community centres in the affected areas, offering vital resources and support to help families and local communities recover.

This effort is further strengthened through a collaboration with MRC, a trusted humanitarian organisation known for its expertise in disaster relief that will ensure the aid reaches those in greatest need. Through this partnership, the donation will provide essential relief items, including food, hygiene products, and cleaning supplies, such as high-pressure water jets, mops, disinfectants, and floor scrubbers to assist families in restoring their homes and surroundings.

With MRC’s extensive experience in disaster management and its established network of volunteers across Malaysia, the partnership will ensure that the donation is utilised effectively, providing immediate support such as essential supplies, shelter, and other forms of aid to flood-affected communities.

Kyle Choi, Chief Executive Officer of Coway Malaysia, shared, “The well-being of Malaysians is at the heart of what we do. We strive to enhance lives with our products, but equally, we believe in being a pillar of support during times of crisis. The flash floods have deeply affected countless lives, and we hope this contribution, in collaboration with the Malaysian Red Crescent, will help ease the burden and bring much-needed comfort to all families affected out there.”

As Malaysia works to recover from the devastation of the flash floods, Coway will continue to collaborate with trusted partners and extend its efforts to provide aid and relief wherever it is most needed. Through this ongoing commitment, Coway aims to be a source of strength and hope for all Malaysians.

A NEW ERA OF HEALTHCARE EXCELLENCE IN THE HEART OF DAMANSARA

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Sunway Medical Centre Damansara(SMCD) is the fourth comprehensive tertiary hospital in the Sunway Healthcare Group

Sunway Medical Centre Damansara Opens its Doors to Its Community

Petaling Jaya, Selangor, 23 December 2024 – Sunway Medical Centre Damansara (SMCD), the latest addition to Sunway Healthcare Group (SHG), officially opened on 2 December 2024 as the fourth comprehensive tertiary hospital in the network. This modern, advanced facility is now fully operational and poised to offer exceptional, patient-centred care with cutting-edge technology and a dedicated team of medical professionals.

With a capacity of more than 300 beds (currently 156 licensed beds), SMCD is equipped to deliver a broad spectrum of medical specialties and advanced healthcare services. Designed with patient comfort in mind, the hospital ensures the highest standards of treatment across various disciplines.

SMCD’s prime location in Kota Damansara, accessible via key highways like the NKVE, Sprint, and North-South Expressway, offers significant convenience for patients in the region. Serving a rapidly growing community of both locals and expatriates, the hospital’s central position ensures timely access to critical care for residents across Petaling Jaya, Shah Alam, and Kuala Lumpur. The hospital’s 24-hour Accident & Emergency department, which features 14 beds and is staffed by a highly experienced team, is prepared to manage a wide array of emergency situations, including trauma, cardiac crises, and strokes. Its location near major highways and public transportation routes allows for swift and convenient access to urgent care.

The hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, encompassing advanced medical and surgical care in specialties such as Cardiology, Nueroscience, Gastroenterology, Orthopaedic, Oncology,  ENT, Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and more. SMCD also features a variety of in-house services tailored to the needs of its diverse patient base. These include a 35-bay Haemodialysis unit, Chemotherapy Day Care, 1 Cath Lab, 8 Operating Theatres, Surgical Day Wards, 10 Delivery Suites, more than 30 Critical Care beds and a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), ensuring comprehensive care for all stages of life.

“I am excited to announce that SMCD is ready to serve its patients and community in our vicinity. As we move into 2025, we strived to advocate and increase our preventive wellness initiatives and corporate social responsibility efforts. I am incredibly proud of our team’s dedication, which has helped us achieved these key milestones, reinforcing our commitment to delivering the highest quality healthcare to our patients,” says Ms. Jasmine Lau Mooi Hun, Chief Executive Officer of SMCD.

For more information or to make an appointment, please visit https://www.sunwaymedicaldamansara.com.my/, call 603-8966 9191 or Whatsapp us at +60192168825. Download our Sunway Medical Damansara app at the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei App Store for doctor’s appointments.

 

Alipay+ grows its payment partner ecosystem to 35, connecting merchants to more travellers seamlessly through mobile payments, in-app marketing and exclusive campaigns during the year-end travel peak

By
Tan Heng Hong
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  • The number of travellers using their Alipay+-supported home payment app while abroad increased three times
  • Alipay+ evolved to include cross-border mobile payment, destination marketing and digital lifestyle services, giving merchants more ways than ever to connect with customers
  • Alipay+ expands merchant coverage to more local stores, attractions, F&B and transportation, in line with the preference to ‘travel like a local’

SINGAPORE – December 16, 2024 – Alipay+, Ant International’s cross-border mobile payment and digitalisation technology solution, announced new payment partners, expanded global merchant coverage, and introduced exclusive rewards for partners’ users in time for the year-end peak travel season.

Alipay+ now has 35 international payment partners, serving more global travellers and connecting them to more than 90 million merchants in 66 markets. Beyond seamless cross-border mobile payment, Alipay+ now includes an in-app destination marketing platform with digital lifestyle services, giving merchants direct channels to reach and engage customers. Its destination marketing platform, A+ Rewards, is available in more than 10 leading superapps, including Touch ‘n Go eWallet from Malaysia, TrueMoney from Thailand, GCash from the Philippines and Kakao Pay from South Korea.

Travel has rebounded significantly in 2024, and according to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the tourism industry will break all records in 2024, with international spending increasing by 33%.

“Travel has a significant impact on local and regional economies, uplifting communities, small businesses and livelihoods, trends expected to accelerate in 2025,” said Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International. “Through a combination of innovation and partnerships with merchants and tourism organisations, we aim to help more businesses leverage the opportunities from growth in tourism while continually enhancing the personalised travel experience for travellers.”

Alipay+ expands merchant coverage, empowering global consumers to ‘travel like a local’ 

Travel habits have shifted, and travellers are increasingly spending more on localised experiences. There has been an 80% increase in Food and beverage (F&B) merchants, a 50% increase in attractions, and a 120% increase in transportation such as ride-hailing, taxis, and trains. Alipay+’s expanded acceptance of these essential travel scenarios enables travellers to ‘travel like a local’ this year-end and beyond.

In addition to the expanded coverage, Alipay+ is introducing exclusive promotions in top destinations worldwide, working closely with partners to offer travellers the best deals.

  • Japan: Following its expanded partnership with PayPay, Alipay+ now connects with over 3 million merchants, including local SMEs like izakayas, wagashi shops, snack stores, anime merchandise shops, and guesthouses. Travellers can enjoy special rewards at these local stores, at top attractions like Tokyo SKYTREE, Tokyo Solamachi, TOKYO Mizumachi, and Ekimise Asakusa, and top merchants such as airport shops, department stores, premium shopping malls, electronics and appliance retailers, and health and beauty stores.
  • South Korea: Alipay+ expanded to iconic local destinations such as Myeong-dong Night Market in Seoul, Nami Island Night Market in Gangwon-do, and Aewol Café Street in Jeju. Tourists can also use Alipay+’s partner payment apps to pay for bus rides in Jeju and taxis in Seoul. Travellers can enjoy promotions at more than 1.9 million ZeroPay merchants and other attractions and merchants such as Everland Theme Park, GS25 convenience stores and more.
  • Singapore: Travelers can better enjoy the world-renowned attractions and food in Singapore, with Alipay+ recently accepted at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, which includes the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and Bird Paradise, and expanded F&B merchants, which include top foodie experiences such as CHAGEE, Toast Box and BreadTalk, and historical food site, Lau Pa Sat.
  • Malaysia: Alipay+ makes it easier for travellers to commute between the airport and the city with its acceptance at KLIA Express Rail Link in the capital. Pavilion KL, one of the top shopping malls with a vast collection of international and local brands and food, also joins as one of the latest Alipay+ partners. Alipay+ is connected with DuitNow QR, which has nearly 2 million merchants.
  • Thailand: Alipay+ offers exclusive promotions at leading retailers under Central, Siam and King Power and everyday conveniences such as 7-Eleven, BigC, Boots and BTS trains.
  • Philippines: Alipay+ has grown its coverage in key cities in the Philippines and is now accepted by more than 140,000 merchants, including the Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping malls in the world.
  • Cambodia, Nepal: Alipay+ recently established new national standardised QR partnerships in Cambodia via KHQR and Nepal via NepalPay QR, providing ease of payment to more than 1 million and 875,000 local businesses, respectively.
  • United Kingdom: Travelers can now more easily explore the arts and culture in London, with Alipay+ recently accepted at Van Gogh House, a historic building. Promotions are available at some of the most iconic retail destinations in London, including Harrods, Selfridges, Liberty of London, Harvey Nichols, and Bicester Village.
  • Germany: Alipay+ will introduce the “German Shopping Festival”, bringing together a wide range of German merchants, offering exclusive discounts, Christmas-themed travel guides, and unique shopping experiences.
  • France: Travelers visiting France will enjoy promotional instant cashback on purchases at some of the top retail destinations in Paris, such as Galeries Lafayettes, La Vallée Village, and Printemps Haussman.
  • Italy: Alipay+ is now accepted at the biggest duty-free store in Italy, Aelia Duty-Free (Lagardere Group), at Rome airport. Additionally, Tinaba e-wallet users will benefit from cashback promotions running until the end of January at Alipay+-enabled merchants across the country.
  • Istanbul: Alipay+ is now accepted at Unifree Duty-Free at Istanbul Airport, the second busiest airport in Europe.
  • Abu Dhabi, Dubai: Travelers will benefit from a direct discount at key retailers such as Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates and at key duty-free stores and airports, including Dubai Duty-Free and Abu Dhabi Duty-Free.

Eva Mei @misspopsasa returns as Resorts World Genting’s Chief Experience Officer to lead the charge on family fun!

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Onboards Klook and Jobstreet by SEEK as strategic partners as new kidscation packages are announced

Genting Highlands, 23 December 2024 – Resorts World Genting (RWG) has announced that five-year-old kid influencer, Eva Mei @misspopsasa will reprise her role as the resort’s Chief Experience Officer following her heightened popularity, as the leisure and hospitality giant moves forward with a new evolutionary phase of its award-winning CEO campaign!

RWG’s CEO Campaign – A Destination Verified by Kids, For Kids featuring the unorthodox but refreshing approach of showcasing the many attractions within the resort through the lens of a child, in an attempt to position the resort as a kids-friendly, preferred family holiday destination, was first initiated last year. The campaign won accolades for the best use of social media across categories from Appies, MARKies, MDA and Dragon’s Asia.

“We have decided to retain Eva Mei @misspopsasa as CEO as she is charmingly effervescent and exuberant, a good fit for our kidscation segment. We are confident in Eva leading the charge on family fun!” said Spencer Lee, Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Public Relations.

In pushing for greater relatable moments and visual memories, the adorably sassy and cherubic, Eva has been hard at work conducting meetings, interviews and market research with her Board of Kids Directors to design new Chief Experience Officer packages for the resort!

The exclusive CEO packages incorporate RWG’s four main verticals – Stay, Play, Eat & Shop – offering a fully integrated experience tailored to both kids and parents. Eva’s vision is to ensure every family vacation is centred around fun and engagement for kids whilst being stress-free for parents!

RWG’s creative collaboration with Jobstreet by SEEK

As RWG needs to obtain experiential feedback to validate and improve its CEO offerings, Jobstreet by SEEK, Malaysia’s leading career platform has been roped in to “hire” THREE families who will serve as the ultimate product testers for the CEO packages.

To join in the fun, simply share why your kids would love RWG on the Jobstreet app community thread. Winners will receive an all-expenses-paid experience of one of the new CEO Packages!

“At Jobstreet by SEEK, our vision has always been to help Malaysians lead productive and fulfilling working lives. This partnership with Resorts World Genting allows us to extend that mission beyond the workplace, celebrating what it means to lead a balanced and joyful life. It’s also incredibly inspiring and delightful to see young talents like Eva @misspopsasa stepping into the CEO role with such confidence and creativity. After all, who says work can’t be fun?” said Sammy Chan, Head of Marketing for Malaysia at Jobstreet by SEEK.

Klook – the family fun advocate

Recognizing the need for expert support for its product release, RWG has teamed up with Klook Malaysia, Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services. As an expert in family-friendly holiday experiences, Klook will utilize its extensive platform to connect with parents across the region.

“Klook is excited to partner with Resorts World Genting for the CEO campaign, as it perfectly aligns with our goal of creating unforgettable experiences for families. This collaboration empowers children to lead the adventure while offering parents exciting and seamless travel opportunities,” said Sarah Wan, General Manager, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

RWG’s CEO packages will feature on the resort’s website and Klook, complemented by collaborations with travel creators to showcase real-life holiday moments.

“We are beyond thrilled to have Klook and Jobstreet by SEEK collaborate with Eva in giving kids and parents alike reasons to experience and rate our world class resort, as we underscore kidscations and family travels in 2025! We would certainly like to amplify our position as the country’s leading family holiday destination and ultimate purveyor of joyful experiences, discoveries and adventure!” said Lee. 

Experience a dash of fun with CEO packages from RWG!

Parents can give their kids the opportunity to create unforgettable memories by experiencing RWG’s newly curated CEO packages available from now until 16 February 2025 with validity from 2 January till 30 June 2025:

Key to Adventure Package (from RM524nett)
Description:

Key to Adventure unlocks an adventurous holiday for little CEOs with options to stay in the themed hotel Genting SkyWorlds Hotel or the nature inspired getaway Resorts World Awana, two tickets to the award-winning Genting SkyWorlds theme park, plus vouchers to spend on yummy noms!
Entitlements Ø  One-night stay at Superior Deluxe Room, Resorts World Awana or Quads, Genting SkyWorlds Hotel

Ø  1-Day Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park Standard Ticket for two

Ø  RM50 F&B credit at Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park for two
Play Mode Package (at RM190nett)
Description:

Turn on Play Mode for 1 day with the Play Mode package that gives you a whole day of unlimited fun! Explore the vast worlds of Genting SkyWorlds theme park during the day and continue playing at Skytropolis indoor Theme Park in the evening. Vouchers let you shop and dine while you have fun.
Entitlements Ø  1-Day Genting SkyWorlds Standard Ticket

Ø  Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park Unlimited Pass

Ø  RM30 F&B credit at Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park

Ø  RM20 retail value at Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park Retail

*T&Cs apply

For more information on the CEO campaign and packages, visit rwgenting.com or RWG’s official social media channels.

From Farm to Screen: Shopee’s Kempen Tani Cultivates Online Success for Agropreneurs

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Nur Rahilla Binti Mohamad Kamal, co-founder of Nanakamalbiz, showcases her handmade traditional snacks.

KUALA LUMPUR, 24 December 2024 – Shopee Malaysia recently launched Kempen Tani, an initiative designed to empower local farmers, agropreneurs, and producers with the tools, training, and resources needed to succeed in the digital economy, while seamlessly connecting buyers with direct access to their products. Through this campaign, Shopee aims to enhance the agrofood product value chain, boost the income of food producers, and encourage consumers to buy directly from local agropreneurs, fostering a more sustainable and inclusive future for the industry.

The Kempen Tani programme saw nearly 100 sellers attending workshops led by a certified ShopeeXpert trainer. These workshops focused on providing tips to increase viewer traffic and sales through Shopee’s livestream platform. Meanwhile, the ShopeeUni team offered in-depth training on store setup, SKU listing, and optimising product listings to enhance online presence and sales performance. Livestreams held during the event gave agropreneurs a platform to showcase their products to over 110,000 viewers nationwide, resulting in an impressive 9 times increase in orders compared to an average day’s stream in November.

Crunching Success: Nanakamalbiz Goes Online

One of the standout participants was Nanakamalbiz, a traditional snack business from Kota Tinggi, Johor, co-founded by Nur Rahilla Binti Mohamad Kamal. Since 2016, Rahilla’s business has relied on walk-in customers and word-of-mouth to sell its handmade treats. However, as consumer habits shifted towards online shopping, Rahilla recognised the need to adapt. Despite being new to e-commerce, she joined Shopee to future-proof her business and reach a broader audience.

“The transition from offline to online was a huge learning curve, but it quickly became exciting as I saw the potential,” Rahilla shared. Through Kempen Tani, she received hands-on guidance on setting up her store and optimising her product listings. The campaign also introduced her to Shopee’s tools, which simplified logistics and customer management. “Previously, we would deliver orders through buses or rely on customers to pick them up. Shopee streamlined everything for us,” she explained.

Shopee’s analytics dashboard proved invaluable, helping Rahilla track sales trends, identify bestsellers, and plan her inventory more efficiently. Features like discount vouchers and free shipping allowed her to attract customers from across Malaysia, including Sabah. “Shopee gave me the confidence to thrive in a competitive market,” she shared, reflecting on how Kempen Tani has helped her embrace the digital economy.

From Fruit Stalls to Online Success with Kempen Tani

Madam Lai Nyuk Ling from JK BISCUITS live streaming during Kempen Tani event

In Bidor, Perak, Madam Lai Nyuk Ling of JK BISCUITS successfully transformed her fruit business through e-commerce. Initially reliant on her fruit stall for income, Madam Lai never imagined her guavas and dragon fruits would be shipped as far as Sabah and Sarawak.

“I was eager to try something new, and when the orders started pouring in, I couldn’t believe how quickly everything took off.” she shared. Participating in Shopee campaigns, including the 11.11 Sale, marked a turning point, earning her RM4,000 in revenue in just one day—a milestone that boosted her confidence in e-commerce.

With Kempen Tani, sellers like Madam Lai have gained insights and tools to elevate their businesses. Shopee Live, for instance, allowed her to showcase her fruit-packing process, creating trust and transparency with customers. “They know exactly what they’re getting,” she explained. Thanks to Shopee’s logistics, she is now able to deliver fresh fruits nationwide, inspiring others in her community to explore the opportunities presented by e-commerce and Kempen Tani.

Wan Muhamad Biruni Bin Wan Jamaluddin from Corndog Anak Ramai showcases his products

Connecting Rural Producers with Nationwide Consumers

From Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Corndog Anak Ramai is a prime example of how Kempen Tani helps rural businesses thrive in the digital economy. Founded in 2020 by Wan Muhamad Biruni Bin Wan Jamaluddin, the family-run business initially sold homemade frozen corndough to a small local network. Scaling up proved challenging due to limited market access and logistical hurdles.

In 2021, Wan embraced e-commerce by listing his products on Shopee, despite having no prior experience. “At first, it felt like a big leap, but with Shopee’s support, we quickly gained the visibility and tools we needed to thrive,” he shared. With features like Shopee Live and vouchers, Corndog Anak Ramai expanded its reach to urban households in Selangor, Johor, and Kuala Lumpur. Live sessions proved especially impactful, helping the brand connect with new customers and boost engagement.

To ensure product quality, Wan invested in premium packaging and thicker iceboxes for frozen goods. Shopee’s affiliate programme accelerated his growth, with one affiliate generating over 1,000 orders in just three months. “Being part of Malaysia’s digital economy through Kempen Tani is a source of pride for us. This isn’t just about selling frozen food—it’s about creating opportunities for our family and community,” Wan reflected.

Fostering a Sustainable and Inclusive Future

“Agropreneurs are the heart of Malaysia’s agricultural sector, and their resilience and innovation continue to inspire us,” said Tan Ming Kit, Head of Marketing and Business Intelligence at Shopee Malaysia. “Through Kempen Tani, Shopee aims to continue empowering more agropreneurs with tailored training programmes, innovative campaigns, and valuable incentives like Shopee Coins and vouchers to boost their online presence. This initiative not only creates opportunities for them to shine but also contributes to shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future for the industry. We have plans to introduce more targeted support and resources for agropreneurs in the coming months to further amplify their visibility and help them reach new milestones.”

Consumers can support local producers by purchasing their products through the Kempen Tani Shopee microsite, where they can also claim exclusive vouchers to enjoy even greater savings. With the convenience of farm-to-doorstep delivery, the campaign bridges the gap between rural producers and urban consumers, ensuring that the benefits of the digital economy reach every corner of Malaysia. For more details, visit Kempen Tani Shopee.

Lazada’s AI-Powered 12.12 All Out Sale Generated US$483 Million in Consumer Savings Across Southeast Asia

By
Tan Heng Hong
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  • 12.12’s #LazzieChatHunt campaign drives record-breaking 6 million AI engagements for LazCash and LazRewards redemption – more than double that of 11.11 performance.
  • Shoppers embrace AI features with a 46% surge in proactive interactions for deal discovery and personalised recommendations.

KUALA LUMPUR, 19 DECEMBER 2024 – Lazada, Southeast Asia’s pioneer eCommerce platform, today announced the successful conclusion of its 12.12 All Out Sale, its final mega sale event of the year. Powered by Lazada’s cutting-edge GenAI in-app features launched in October, the sale this year showcased a significant shift in how Southeast Asian consumers engage with AI-enhanced shopping experiences.

The sale’s standout success was driven by consumers actively embracing AI-powered features and checking out their carts based on smart recommendations,  virtual try-ons, AI-generated models, and more. The #LazzieChatHunt campaign, which incentivised shoppers with either LazCash or LazRewards (in selected territories) for entering promotional codes via the Message+ chat, achieved unprecedented engagement with a 76% surge in unique visitors and 6 million AI interactions, marking a twofold increase from 11.11.

12.12 #LazzieChatHunt campaign

During 12.12, Lazada also recorded a 46%  increase in proactive engagements with AI Lazzie, its virtual shopping assistant. Notably, over 15% of these interactions focused on deal discovery and personalised product recommendations, demonstrating strong consumer trust in AI-guided shopping experiences.

Since implementing its enhanced GenAI features, AI Lazzie has played a central role in sales campaigns by gamifying voucher collection into an engaging game-like experience. The platform now enables shoppers to unlock exclusive vouchers, LazRewards, or LazCash daily, with highly engaged users even eligible for up to three redemptions per day.

Lazada’s recent Artificial Intelligence Adoption in eCommerce in Southeast Asia whitepaper reveals compelling consumer confidence in AI shopping tools:

  • 92% of respondents depend on AI for personalised product recommendations
  • 90% use AI-generated product summaries
  • 88% base their purchase decisions based on AI-curated content

Lazada’s comprehensive GenAI ecosystem features :

  • AI Lazzie: an AI-powered personal shopping assistant offering tailored recommendations and guidance.
  • Smart Recommendations: AI-driven product suggestions aligned with individual preferences.
  • AI-Generated Product Information: compelling and accurate product descriptions.
  • AI-Generated Models: advanced visualisation tools for enhanced product presentation.

These innovations are powered by  Alibaba’s newly improved Marco MT, an advanced AI translation system built on the proprietary large language model Qwen.  Marco MT enables precise market localisation by accurately interpreting cultural nuances and industry-specific terminology, helping sellers create authentic product listings across Southeast Asia’s diverse markets.

SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia 2025 Co-organised with Restaurant Association of Singapore 16th – 18th July 2025 | Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre

By
Tan Heng Hong
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18 December 2024 Singapore  –  SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia exhibition is proud to announce an exclusive three-year partnership with the Airline Catering Association (ACA), an organisation representing 64% of the world’s airline catering market and responsible for serving 4.7 million meals daily.

This strategic collaboration aims to strengthen both organisations while fostering innovation and growth within the high-volume airline catering industry. The partnership will provide ACA members with opportunities to explore and broaden menu variety, introducing new flavours, ingredients, and catering solutions that meet the ever-evolving demands of global air travel. At the same time, SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia exhibitors will benefit from unparalleled access to a sector that thrives on efficiency, scalability, and quality.

“This partnership represents a significant step forward for SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia,” said Ilaria Cicero, CEO of IEG Asia. “By aligning with ACA, we’re not only opening doors for our exhibitors to showcase ingredients, products, and equipment tailored for this high-turnover industry, but also helping ACA members discover innovative solutions to enhance their operations and menus.”

Key benefits of the partnership include:

  • Business Opportunities for Exhibitors:Exhibitors at SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia will gain direct access to ACA members, to highlight products and solutions designed for large-scale catering operations.
  • Innovations in Airline Catering:ACA members will have the chance to explore new ingredients and equipment to diversify and elevate their offerings.
  • Industry Insights and Collaboration:The partnership will facilitate meaningful connections between industry professionals, fostering innovation and driving growth in the airline catering sector.

“Restaurant Association of Singapore (RAS) is happy to welcome the Airline Catering Association (ACA) to Restaurant Asia and SIGEP Asia 2025. We are confident that ACA members will find good value in exploring the innovative ingredients, equipment, and solutions showcased by our exhibitors at the inaugural Restaurant Asia show. One of the many potential partnership opportunities is with Singapore’s chefs and F&B operators to bring their products on board international airlines, adding unique Singaporean and Asian flavours to in-flight meals. We believe having ACA on board presents a unique opportunity to strengthen the link between the airline catering sector and Singapore’s vibrant F&B community, fostering innovation and driving growth that benefits the entire industry,” said Benjamin Boh, President, Restaurant Association of Singapore.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia. This partnership promises to greatly benefit our members by connecting them with the forefront of innovation in the foodservice and hospitality sectors. This collaboration not only enriches our understanding of evolving industry trends but also highlights our commitment to adapting and responding to the dynamic needs of today’s and tomorrow’s travellers. Together, we are setting new standards and shaping the future of airline catering by fostering a bridge between leading industry players across continents,” said Fabio Gamba, Managing Director of the Airline Catering Association (ACA).

The collaboration underscores SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia’s commitment to bridging industries and creating platforms for innovation and growth. As the combined events continue to build its reputation in Southeast Asia, this partnership with ACA cements its position as a hub for high-impact collaborations that shape the future of foodservice.

About SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia

SIGEP Asia & Restaurant Asia is Southeast Asia’s premier tradeshow dedicated to the foodservice, hospitality, and F&B industries. As a highly curated, industry-focused event, the show goes beyond traditional exhibitions with a proactive approach that promotes exhibitors to the industry, providing targeted visibility, tailored support, and enhanced opportunities to connect with relevant buyers, media, and key decision-makers.

The event’s niche focus and intimate setting allow for deeper engagement and stronger connections with industry professionals, ensuring that products and services stand out amidst competition.

About Restaurant Association of Singapore (RAS)

As the pioneer and largest F&B Association in Singapore, the Restaurant Association of Singapore (RAS) has more than 500 members, representing close to 800 brands that operate more than 5,000 outlets. Our members comprise a good mix of business models such as restaurants, caterers, fast foods and food courts, with various cuisine types, thus providing a wholesome view and opinion, with the common goal to propel the industry forward.

Since 1980, RAS has acted as a collective voice and the ‘voice of reason’ for the F&B industry and strives to advance the industry through various platforms such as bridging closer working relationships between businesses and government agencies, networking events for members, recognition and awards platforms and administering programmes to drive business success.

About Airline Catering Association (ACA)

ACA (Airline Catering Association) is a not-for-profit international association. Its aim is to provide a forum for the promotion of cooperation among the operators in the airline catering industry and to support the activities of its members in their contribution to human, economic and social development globally and regionally.

The Association represents the leading global airline caterers, collectively responsible for over 64% of the world’s airline catering market and serving 4.7 million meals daily. ACA promotes the interests of its members and supports the advancement of the airline catering industry worldwide.

For more information, please contact: marketing@iegasia.com.sg

Resorts World Genting Celebrates Christmas with the Blind and Visually Impaired from Malaysian Association for the Blind

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Dato’ Sri Kay Atisha, Vice President of Corporate Relations & Communications, Resorts World Genting (seated middle row, fourth from left), and Mr. Errol De Castro, General Manager of Resorts World Awana (seated middle row, centre) with participants from the Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB) and G3 volunteers during the Christmas celebration at Resorts World Awana

Genting Highlands, 19 December 2024 – In a celebration of inclusivity and festive cheer, Resorts World Genting (RWG) and Genting Green Generation (G3), hosted a memorable Christmas celebration at Resorts World Awana (RWA) welcoming 23 blind and visually impaired individuals from the Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB) on 12 December.

G3 is RWG’s employee volunteer programme, recognised for its focus on fostering community engagement and promoting environmental sustainability. This year’s Christmas celebration underscored RWG’s commitment to inclusivity by curating sensory-rich experiences tailored to create lasting connections and meaningful moments for the MAB participants.

The celebration began with an exhilarating adventure at Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park, where 23 MAB participants were paired with G3 volunteers to ensure a seamless experience. Equipped with earpieces for clear communication, participants fully engaged in the rides – Epic Hummingbird Flyers and Sid’s Rock ‘N’ Slide – guided by the Theme Park Ambassador’s detailed explanations. The immersive experience was a testament to the Genting SkyWorlds team’s unwavering dedication to accessibility and inclusion, leaving smiles and laughter among all attendees.

The festivities continued with a Christmas-themed luncheon at Dewan Lanai, Resorts World Awana, where participants were treated to live Christmas songs and a trumpet performance by the Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park Entertainment team. G3 volunteers ensured MAB participants were comfortably served and assisted throughout the lunch, fostering an atmosphere of warmth and connection. Special appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Claus, along with Benny the Entertainer, a Sun Bear mascot from Genting’s Highland Heroes, added an extra layer of sensory engagement, making the celebration even more memorable.

A G3 volunteer assisting a blind participant from MAB during the mystery box game hosted by Resorts World Awana, helping identify mystery items in a box.

The event also featured an engaging interactive game session led by the RWA team. Blind and visually impaired participants, guided by their sense of touch, identified mystery items hidden in a box while G3 volunteers recorded their answers. This activity highlighted the importance of sensory exploration in creating inclusive experiences. Adding to the festive cheer, a lucky draw was held featuring gift boxes from L’Occitane, a B Corp-certified brand renowned for its impactful ‘Fight Avoidable Blindness’ initiatives globally. The participants were also presented with delightful mini cakes as take-home mementos, extending the joy of the day beyond the celebration itself.

Speaking at the event, Dato’ Sri Kay Atisha, Vice President of Corporate Relations and
Communications, Resorts World Genting, shared, “This year’s Christmas celebration underscores our commitment to inclusivity and creating meaningful experiences for all. The event was thoughtfully curated to provide the MAB participants with sensory-rich activities and engaging entertainment that could be enjoyed beyond sight, fostering connection and festive cheer. I am also proud of the dedication shown by our G3 volunteers and the tremendous support from teams at Genting SkyWorlds and Resorts World Awana in making this event truly special.”

The Christmas celebration underscores RWG’s commitment to fostering inclusivity through its G3 initiatives while reaffirming its dedication to community engagement. The company remains steadfast in its efforts to create meaningful, positive impacts within the communities it serves.

Wrapping up on a high note: Malaysia-China Summit 2024 paves the way for continued bilateral cooperation and next chapter of growth

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Distinguished speakers from Maycham China, China EV100, MARii, and leading industry experts converge at the EV Forum during the Malaysia-China Summit 2024 to shape the future of sustainable mobility.

From Dialogue to Action: MCS 2024 Highlights Necessity of Collaborative Platforms

Kuala Lumpur, 19 December 2024 – The Malaysia-China Summit 2024 (MCS 2024), which took place at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) from 17 – 19 December, ended on a high note with positive outcomes. The high-powered, impactful three-day event attracted over 16,000 visitors and 250 trade exhibitors.

Among others, the Summit, which was organised by Qube in association with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and endorsed by the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), brought together leaders from government, industry, and academia to engage in meaningful discussions anchored by five thematic pillars: Future Tech, Future Knowledge and Experience, Future Mobility and Connectivity, Future Growth, and Future Opportunity. Each of them delivered discussions on critical topics ranging from sustainable development and mobility to strategic trade collaborations and the future of tourism.

In his closing keynote speech of the Leadership Conference, which was read by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, YB Datuk Mohamad Alamin, YAB Dato’ Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, stated that with the strong ties to China, Malaysia stands as a formidable force within Asia, offering unparalleled opportunities for businesses to create new ventures and unlock shared economic growth. “Much like China, we are deeply committed to a vision of shared knowledge and prosperity, ensuring that our people are not left behind in the pursuit of progress,” he further stressed, adding that through close cooperation with China, Malaysia aims to achieve shared progress by promoting equitable wealth distribution, upskilling Malaysians, and eradicating poverty.

Key components of MCS 2024 were the three-day International Trade and Investment Exposition, two-day Leadership Conference, and several key side events, underscoring the urgency of aligned policies and strategic investments in today’s interconnected global economy.

The Leadership Conference featured six tailor-made sessions, with discussions around critical growth areas such as digital transformation, key infrastructure projects, sustainable tourism, and energy transition. The Conference, which took place in the first two days of the summit, featured Malaysian Ministers and Deputy Ministers who shared critical insights on various facets of Malaysia-China bilateral trade and relations, setting the tone for a future of economic growth and shared prosperity. 

Ministerial keynote speakers included YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia; YB Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Malaysia; YB Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir, Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation; YB Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister of Plantation and Commodities; YB Rafizi Ramli, Minister of Economy; YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture as well as YB Datuk Mohamad Alamin.

A Platform for Enhancing Cross-Border Collaboration

Importantly, MCS 2024 resulted in business and economic outcomes with the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), demonstrating the Summit’s impact as a critical platform that aligned ambition with actionable progress.

These collaborations aim to play an instrumental role in enhancing Malaysia-China partnerships across critical industries such as technology, energy, and talent development. Some of these included:

Through the MoU signing, ITRAMAS Corp Sdn Bhd, UEM Sunrise, and Guoxuan High Tech Co. Ltd commit to establishing a cutting-edge R&D centre for battery energy storage systems.
  • MOU between ITRAMAS Corp Sdn Bhd, UEM Sunrise, and Guoxuan High Tech Co. Ltd to drive innovation in battery energy storage systems

This MOU will establish a world-class research and development (R&D) centre dedicated to advancing battery energy storage systems, which will feature a 1GWac hybrid solar photovoltaic power plant. It aims to position Malaysia as a leader in clean energy solutions while bolstering technological partnerships with China, enhancing technology transfer, and upskilling the local workforce. The MOU also commits to the joint promotion and commercialisation of innovative products developed through the R&D centre, ensuring a robust pipeline of cutting-edge solutions that cater to both local and global markets.

The Manpower Department (JTM), under MOHR, signed an MOU with Huawei Technologies Malaysia to transform Malaysia’s TVET ecosystem
  • MOU signed between the Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR) and Huawei Technologies Malaysia to strengthen Malaysia’s TVET ecosystem 

The Manpower Department (JTM), under KESUMA, signed an MOU with Huawei Technologies Malaysia to transform Malaysia’s TVET ecosystem by integrating advanced ICT technologies like AI, 5G, IoT, and cloud computing. This collaboration aims to establish the first TVET Huawei Learning Centre at ILP Kuala Lumpur, where certified courses and hands-on training on Huawei equipment will be offered. The initiative will train 2,000 individuals, including industry engineers, TVET teachers, and students, equipping them with globally recognised certifications and enhancing their competitiveness in the ICT job market. Plans include expanding these learning centres nationwide, aligning with Malaysia’s TVET Policy 2030 to build a high-tech, globally competitive workforce.

  • MOU signed between DSR Taiko Berhad and Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA)
MOU signed between DSR Taiko Berhad and Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) focuses on several areas, including smart technology innovation for durian farming, joint research on renewable energy for sustainable durian plantations, and the development of local sensor technology for early detection of heavy metals in durians.

This partnership focuses on several areas, including smart technology innovation for durian farming, joint research on renewable energy for sustainable durian plantations, and the development of local sensor technology for early detection of heavy metals in durians. This initiative highlights the shared commitment of UMPSA and DSR Taiko to deliver innovative solutions that positively impact the agriculture industry.

Beyond achieving economic and business outcomes, MCS 2024 was an important platform to foster a conducive environment for the exchange of ideas, cultures and values that aim to inspire the next generation of business and thought leaders who will continue to shape ASEAN-China relations for the future.

Side Events

MCS 2024 also featured a series of impactful and dynamic side events, further enriching the summit’s agenda and fostering opportunities for collaboration. Highlights included the Malaysia-China EV Forum by Maycham China and China EV100, the China-Malaysia Business Forum, interactive networking sessions, engaging pocket talks and exciting product launches.

Support from Key Stakeholders

MCS 2024 drew prominent captains of industry and experts from both Malaysia and China, including His Excellency Ouyang Yujing, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Malaysia. 

“We are pleased that the Malaysia-China Summit 2024 has been a dynamic platform to reaffirm Malaysia’s position as a thriving hub for trade and investment. It also facilitated robust business matching sessions organised by MATRADE to enable businesses to forge meaningful connections, explore synergies and unlock new opportunities. These sessions, along with the summit’s diverse programmes, underscore Malaysia’s pivotal role in driving regional integration and fostering collaborative growth across ASEAN and beyond.

“The contributions of our exhibitors at the Malaysia-China Summit 2024 have been remarkable. They have invested their time and resources to showcase the best in innovation, and their participation has enriched this summit and provided a tangible demonstration of the type of collaboration that defines our shared future,” said YB Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican, MATRADE Chairman.

Meanwhile, Richard Teo, Executive Chairman of Qube Integrated Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Organising Chairman of MCS 2024, highlighted that events like these serve as critical platforms for fostering dialogue, strengthening relationships, and driving actionable outcomes. 

“At QUBE, we take pride in shaping transformative events that enhance experiences for brands and businesses across Asia and beyond. This summit has been a testament to the value of partnership, laying the groundwork for sustained growth in sectors like infrastructure, energy, technology and many more. We are honoured to play a role in curating such a pivotal platform for mutual growth and prosperity.” 

A Foundation for Continued Collaboration

With the conclusion of this summit, it was evident that MCS 2024 had successfully laid a strong foundation for future collaboration between Malaysia, China, and ASEAN. The strategic partnerships formed during this summit will provide opportunities to catalyse existing collaborations and create new ones in infrastructure, energy, and technology, fostering long-term economic and social benefits.

MCS 2024 is strongly supported by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, together with multiple sponsors and several other strategic partners. 

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