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First-Time Local Sellers and Brands Achieve a 30X Sales Uplift during Shopee’s 12.12 Birthday Sale

Shopee Affiliates help drive 1 in 4 orders, empowering local businesses nationwide

KUALA LUMPUR, 16 December 2024 – Local sellers and brands shone brightly during Shopee Malaysia’s 12.12 Birthday Sale, with first-time participants achieving an extraordinary 30X sales uplift compared to an average day. This remarkable growth reflects their dedication to meeting customers’ needs, as they leveraged Shopee’s full suite of features—including Shopee Live, Shopee Affiliate, vouchers, and more— to enhance engagement and connect with buyers nationwide.

Malaysians’ favourite local brands, such as Dr. Cardin, ELGINI MALAYSIA, Indah Pesona Concept Store, Panda Eyes Official Store, and Popi Official Store, generated some of the highest orders from their livestream sessions. Shopee Affiliates  further bolstered visibility for sellers, driving 1 in 4 orders for local businesses, including allblue5367, HYGR, and Panna Lab. They also posted over 1 million Shopee Videos, significantly boosting visibility for local sellers.

Malaysians enjoyed substantial savings during the campaign, with over RM400 million in savings achieved through Shopee’s Lowest Price Guaranteed. Additionally, over 51 million Shopee Coins were claimed on Shopee Live, highlighting consumer’s participation during the streams and the great value and shoppers could enjoy during the event.

The diverse product categories on the platform further reflect how Shopee successfully meets Malaysians’ needs and preferences. Health & Beauty (Skincare), Home & Living (Home Improvement), and Groceries & Pets (Household Supplies) emerged as the top categories during 12.12, underscoring the variety of products available to shoppers. Popular search terms included women’s sandals, powerbanks, baju kurung, iPhone cases, and women’s blouses, while the most purchased items ranged from Muslimah jerseys to makeup foundations, facial tissues, and ready-to-eat dendeng.

“As we celebrate Shopee’s 9th anniversary, the 12.12 campaign has been a meaningful way to close the year, reflecting our commitment to empowering local businesses and delivering great shopping experiences. This year’s success is a testament to the dedication of our sellers, the engagement of our affiliates, and the trust of our customers. We’re excited for our 10th year ahead, with even more exciting plans in the works. We truly appreciate the support of everyone involved and look forward to continuing this journey of growth and success together,” said Tan Ming Kit, Head of Marketing & Business Intelligence at Shopee Malaysia.

The 12.12 campaign highlighted Shopee’s role in supporting local businesses and connecting them with buyers across Malaysia. Beyond the Klang Valley, cities like Johor Bahru, Kinta, Seremban, Kuantan, and Kota Bharu were among top contributors by orders,  reflecting Shopee’s commitment to reaching and serving Malaysians nationwide.

EU-ASEAN BUSINESS COUNCIL LAUNCHES REPORT COVERING THE FAST-MOVING CONSUMER GOODS PUSHING FOR THE HARMONISATION OF LABELLING STANDARDS

The EU-ASEAN Business Council launched its latest report, “Enhancing FMCG Competitiveness in ASEAN: Industry Challenges and Recommendations for the Food & Beverage Industry”. This report is the first publication by the Council covering the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, providing a detailed analysis of the key issues impacting the food and beverage industry, and mapping out the varying nutritional standards across ASEAN member states.

Apart from highlighting the challenges on labelling, the paper pushes for the need to adopt a harmonised Front of Package Labelling (FoPL) and Back of Package Labelling (BoPL) system. Implementing digital solutions is also listed as a key strategy to address the implications of varying Graphic Health Warning Labels (GHWLs) on alcoholic beverages. Further, the report also discusses the application of taxes on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs), stressing that SSB taxes have not proven to be successful in achieving its intended health goals. Rather, alternatives such as reformulation and resizing of food and beverage products are the more viable solutions to encourage ASEAN citizens to “consume healthy”.

To read more about the report, download the copy here.

On the launch of the report, Corine Tap, Asia President of FrieslandCampina commented, “I am delighted to see the EU-ASEAN Business Council’s pioneering report on the FMCG sector, a vital step in understanding the complexities within the food and beverage industry across the ASEAN region. The report’s insights into the diverse nutritional standards and industry challenges reflect the pressing need for increased dialogue and collaboration between policymakers and companies with a strong foundation in nutrition science. Despite rapid progress and rising affluence, many children in the region remain malnourished. To this end, FrieslandCampina takes a multistakeholder approach in addressing the Triple Burden of Malnutrition by providing access to nutrition to as many children as possible. This means supporting local governments in both policy and technical discussions, leveraging 150-years of dairy know-how in creating nutritious dairy products, and making them available at every corner store. We commend the Council for its leadership and look forward to engaging with stakeholders to implement the report’s findings.”

Danone’s Africa, Middle East and Asia President, Christian Stammkoetter said, “The launch of the FMCG paper is timely. With health as Danone’s North Star and the cornerstone of our impact, Danone has built a unique health-focused portfolio and are committed to pushing our impact even further. Over the years, our ambition is to lead and act on bringing health through food to as many people as possible, building on decades of research and scientific expertise in health C nutrition to help consumers and patients to maintain and support their health through nutritious food and sustainable healthier eating and drinking choices. Our action remains solid from offering tastier and healthier food and drinks, providing positive nutrition C hydration for healthier life, to Investing in nutrition and hydration science C research. At Danone, our health commitment which is built on the framework of the Health and Nutrition Pledge is clear through Danone Impact Journey”.

Chris Humphrey, Executive Chairman of the EU-ABC highlighted: “The FMCG sector is a vital contributor to economic development across ASEAN, supporting millions of jobs and driving substantial consumer expenditure. However, the sector also faces numerous challenges. Of significance is the disparities in standards across markets, and the issue on taxation on SSB. Additionally, the paper underscores the importance of exploring non-tax incentives and partnerships between industry stakeholders and policymakers to encourage healthier consumption patterns. It calls for a collaborative approach to implement education campaigns and support the reformulation of food and beverage products to achieve health objectives of ASEAN and enhance the competitiveness of the FMCG sector. Most critically, the key message of the report is focussed on empowering consumers, to provide them with the tools to make healthier choices, while supporting the efforts of the industry to innovate and reformulate products.”

About the EU-ASEAN Business Council

The EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) is the primary voice for European business within the ASEAN region. Recognised by both the European Commission and the ASEAN Secretariat, and accredited under Annex 2 of the ASEAN Charter, the EU-ABC serves as an independent body committed to promoting European business interests and driving policy and regulatory changes that enhance trade and investment between Europe and ASEAN.

The EU-ABC is dedicated to advancing the interests of its members through strategic advocacy initiatives that cover various sectors and topics. Our mission is to influence policy and regulatory environments to foster a sustainable and competitive business landscape in the ASEAN region.

The EU-ABC’s membership consists of large European Multi-National Corporations and the nine European Chambers of Commerce from around Southeast Asia. The EU-ABC represents a diverse range of European industries cutting across almost every commercial sphere from car manufacturing through to financial services and including Fast Moving Consumer Goods and high-end electronics and communications. Our members all have a common interest in enhancing trade, commerce and investment between Europe and ASEAN.

The Executive Director of the EU-ASEAN Business Council is Mr Chris Humphrey, and its Chairman is Mr Jens Ruebbert. The Council is led by an elected Board consisting of corporate leaders representing a range of important industry sectors and representatives of the European Chambers of Commerce.

LG MALAYSIA BOLSTERS FLOOD RELIEF WITH RM100K DONATION TO MALAYSIAN RED CRESCENT SOCIETY

Mr. Justin Choi (middle), Managing Director of LG Electronics Malaysia, and YB Dato’ Hj Mohd Rashidi (fifth from left), Deputy Chairman of the National Committee for Services (MRCS), joined forces to support flood-affected communities. Also present are (fourth from left) Mr. Jung Hojin, Product Director of LG Subscribe; Dato' Danial Iskandar, Deputy Secretary and Corporate Communications Officer of MRCS; Ms. Sam Hoo, Head of Marketing; and other MRCS representatives.

LG Malaysia’s vital contribution enhances emergency response and aid delivery
for communities affected by monsoon floods. 

KUALA LUMPUR, 17 DECEMBER 2024 – As Malaysia faces another monsoon season, LG Electronics Malaysia (LG Malaysia) is stepping up to address the urgent needs of flood-affected communities. In a decisive move to enhance flood relief efforts, LG Malaysia is donating RM100,000 to the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) specifically for the acquisition of 500 hygiene kits and a lorry container. This targeted donation aims to significantly boost MRCS’s capacity to deliver essential supplies and improve the efficiency of its relief efforts during the critical monsoon period.

LG Malaysia contributed RM100,000 to the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) for 500 hygiene kits and a lorry container, demonstrating a commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of flood-affected communities.

With Malaysia facing some of the highest frequencies of flood-related disasters globally, effective and rapid response is greater than ever. Malaysia ranks 12th in the world for flood frequency, with 10.1% of its area prone to flooding and nearly 5.67 million people affected each year. LG Malaysia’s donation highlights its commitment to not only alleviating immediate suffering but also reinforcing the resilience of frontline responders in their essential work.

Mr Justin Choi, Managing Director of LG Malaysia viewed this donation as a vital call to action to support MRCS and emphasised the importance of this initiative in making a meaningful and lasting impact.

“The frequency and severity of floods in Malaysia are staggering, affecting thousands of families each year. Our contribution is designed to empower MRCS with the tools necessary for swift and effective response while addressing the urgent needs of flood victims with essential hygiene supplies and reliable transportation,” said Justin.

YB Dato’ Hj Mohd Rashidi, Deputy Chairman of the National Committee for Services (MRCS), acknowledged that LG Malaysia’s generous support to fortify MRCS’s capacity to provide critical assistance during these challenging times was a boost of confidence to the first responders.

“This donation will greatly enhance our ability to respond to emergencies and extend aid to those in need. We hope this collaboration inspires other organisations and individuals to contribute to flood relief efforts, amplifying the impact of our collective efforts,” said YB Dato’ Hj. Mohd Rashidi.

Mr Justin Choi asserted that LG Malaysia constantly strives to inspire brave optimism and demonstrate that help is always available for those in need.

“When we maintain a positive outlook despite challenges, we hope to encourage others to stay optimistic and resilient in the face of adversity. Life’s Good when we do good, and through this initiative, we aim to make a meaningful difference.”

For more information and updates on LG Malaysia and Life’s Good Campaign, please visit LG Malaysia’s official website, https://www.lg.com/my/ or follow LG Malaysia’s official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LGMalaysia.

Here’s What You Missed on WhatsApp This Year

Here’s What You Missed on WhatsApp This Year

While maintaining its private and easy to use nature, WhatsApp has actually introduced a number of features to make messaging more personal and fun. Here are some helpful features that might have slipped your attention this year. 

Organise like a pro
You can now manage contacts from WhatsApp Web, Windows, or other linked devices. Plus, the option to save contacts exclusively to WhatsApp means changing devices will be seamless! WhatsApp also introduced Custom Lists and Favourites to help you organise and access your most important chats with ease.

Staying close is even easier (and more fun 🥳)

The new Events feature allows users to create events, track RSVPs, and receive automatic reminders. Event details are always accessible in the group’s information page, so you always have it at your fingertips. Video calls can now take up to 32 participants and you can even play around with Filters and Backgrounds to match your mood. WhatsApp also improved call reliability through MLow codec. Calls made on mobile devices have improved noise and echo cancellation, making it easier to have calls in noisy environments, and video calls have higher resolution for those with faster connections.

Follow what matters most to you 

You can now find Channels that interest you more easily by looking through Channel Categories like People, Organisations, Lifestyle, Sports, Entertainment, Businesses, and News. If you like what you see, you can forward it to a chat or post it directly to your Status.

Express yourself in new ways

Turn your photos into stickers or search a huge bank of GIPHY stickers directly from WhatsApp! If you’re a Channel creator, you can now share Voice Updates with your followers, which have been very popular. Each Channel now supports up to 16 administrators, making it easier to start and manage your own Channel. 

 

Malaysia-China Summit 2024 officially launched

From left to right: Richard Teo, Executive Chairman of Qube Integrated and Malaysia-China Summit 2024 Organising Chairman; Chief Executive Officer YBhg. Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, MATRADE; His Excellency Ouyang Yujing, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to Malaysia; YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia; MATRADE Chairman YB Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican and Dato' Dr. Tan Yew Chong, Advisor to the Minister of Plantation and Commodities of Malaysia officially launching Malaysia-China Summit 2024.

Three-day event held to strengthen 50 Years of Bilateral Ties and Pave the Way for Shared Prosperity

Kuala Lumpur, 17 December 2024—The Malaysia-China Summit 2024 (MCS 2024), a platform for future-focused trade, investment and collaboration commemorating the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China bilateral relations, was officially launched today. 

YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia, delivering his keynote speech during the opening ceremony held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia, officiated the opening ceremony held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

MCS 2024, which takes place from 17-19 December 2024, aims to position Malaysia as a strategic bridge for ASEAN-China collaboration, particularly in anticipation of its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. The summit also serves as a pivotal platform to create economic growth and collaborative opportunities between governments and businesses. 

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister highlighted the significance of Malaysia-China trade relations over the past five decades. He emphasised the summit’s broader vision to drive regional development, shared prosperity, and sustainable growth through innovation and cooperation.

“Over the decades, Malaysia’s partnership with China has been a vital part of our journey. Today, China is one of our largest trading partners and a key source of investment in critical sectors, from electronics to green technology. But this relationship is beyond commerce—it is about vision, trust, and shared progress.

“The theme of this summit, “Prosperity Beyond 50,” is a call to action—a challenge to imagine and realise a future defined by innovation, sustainability, and unity. It is an opportunity to lay the groundwork for the next 50 years of Malaysia-China relations, rooted in trust, respect, and shared vision,” he said. 

MCS 2024 is organised by Qube Integrated Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Qube) in association with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) as the final economic pillar programme under MITI to commemorate the golden anniversary.

“MCS 2024 aims to bring nations and multi-sectoral businesses across industries together, providing opportunities for fruitful engagements, collaborations and investments. It will feature MATRADE’s signature International Sourcing Programme (INSP), facilitating pre-arranged business meetings between Malaysian companies and international buyers. 

MATRADE Chairman YB Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican delivering his speech during the opening ceremony.

“We see strong interest from Chinese importers and buyers seeking to source from Malaysia, and through our five offices in China, we managed to facilitate successful engagements between Chinese buyers and Malaysian exporters. With 49 trade offices worldwide, MATRADE continues to open new opportunities for Malaysian exporters, said MATRADE Chairman YB Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican.

The five-decade long partnership has developed closeness between Malaysia and China that has withstood the test of time. This relationship has nurtured a resilient partnership rooted in cultural and economic collaboration

He shared that MCS 2024 is the grand finale of the Malaysia-China 50th-anniversary celebrations, and the summit brings together participants from Malaysia, China, and ASEAN, with potential trade and investment opportunities exceeding RM2 billion.

Meanwhile, Richard Teo, Executive Chairman of Qube Integrated and MCS 2024 Organising Chairman, highlighted that the summit will spotlight five thematic pillars – Future Knowledge & Experience, Future Opportunity, Future Tech, Future Growth, and Future Mobility & Connectivity. 

“Our goal for MCS 2024 is to provide and foster a conducive environment beyond economic and business outcomes. We aspire to make this summit a meeting ground for an exchange of ideas, cultures and values that will inspire the next generation of business and thought leaders who will continue to shape ASEAN-China relations,” he said.

Achieving ‘Shared Prosperity’ through MCS2024

Over the next three days, MCS 2024 will feature a vibrant array of programmes designed to inspire, engage, and propel a shared vision for collaboration and growth. The International Trade and Investment Expo will feature multi-sectoral exhibitors and trade delegates from Malaysia, China and ASEAN countries. 

This dynamic marketplace will be an opportunity to forge partnerships and explore investment prospects in areas like digital technology, renewable energy, sustainable manufacturing, and many more. 

The expo will also feature strong representation from China industries, including popular products like hardware, home furnishing, interior fixtures, building materials, electronics, lifestyle & fashion, and arts & crafts.

There will also be several side events, industry forums, pocket talks, MoU exchanges and product launches. Key events include the Malaysia-China EV Forum, co-organised with China EV100 and MAYCHAM China with supporting partners MARii and MyZEVA, which will provide insights on EV transformation and industry trends. 

Additionally, the China-Malaysia Business Forum will be held in collaboration with the China Chamber of International Commerce, while other events are hosted by the Malaysian Consortium of Mid-Tier Companies, the ASIA CEO Community and Yingke Consulting Sdn Bhd.

Meanwhile, the opening day also saw the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI), together with Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd (Cradle)— Malaysia’s leading agency for the startup ecosystem— soft launching Startup ASEAN, a transformative platform that aspires to establish the ASEAN region as a thriving hub for startups and innovation.

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 Gold Sponsor Huawei Technologies Malaysia; Silver Sponsors Kuok Brothers Sdn Bhd and PETRONAS; Corporate Sponsors DSR Taiko Berhad and Berjaya Food Berhad; Official Airline Partner AirAsia; Official Media Partners Bernama, Star Media Group and Sin Chew Daily; and Official Venue Partner MITEC, along with several other strategic partners. 

The public are encouraged to visit the expo by registering at: https://reg.malaysia-chinasummit.com.my/profile/visitor-register/

Mister Potato celebrates the Year of the Snake with a fiery twist

Image credit: Minimeinsights.com

Mister Potato is spicing up Chinese New Year 2025 with two limited-edition flavours: Hot Chili Squid (Spicy Huat Sotong) and Spicy Crabstick (Hot Huat Ketam). The brand’s refreshed logo is featured on the new packaging design.

To celebrate the auspicious Year of the Snake, Mister Potato is offering consumers the opportunity to win prizes worth up to RM80,000.

Past Chinese New Year limited edition flavours:

  • 2024: Chili Lime, Spicy Salted Egg and Salted Egg (Year of the Dragon)
  • 2023: Spicy Truffle and Mala Truffle (Year of the Rabbit)
  • 2022: Orange Chicken and Spicy Lobster (Year of the Tiger)
  • 2021: Spicy Buttermilk Prawn and Chicken Jerky (Year of the Ox)
  • 2020: Mala Lobster (Year of the Rat)
  • 2019: Chili Crab (Year of the Pig)
  • 2018: Spicy Prawn (Year of the Dog)
  • 2017: Fiery Chicken (Year of the Rooster)

The hot chili squid flavor has previously been featured in collaborations with Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) in 2023 and Netflix’s Squid Game 2 in 2024.

Momogi offers two new Nusantara flavours

PT Sari Murni Jaya (Momogi) is providing Indonesian consumers with an easy way to savor local flavors through their snacks. The two new Momogi extruded corn stick snacks are now available in Rendang and Soto Ayam flavours.

MariOppa expands with new Chocorio flavour

PT Marimas Putera Kencana has recently expanded its Korean-style powdered milk drink MariOppa with a new flavour. The latest addition, MariOppa Chocorio, features a milky chocolate cookie taste. Previously, the company introduced MariOppa Dark Choco, which offers a sweet flavour with a balanced touch of bitterness.

Chang brews up innovation with new premium unpasteurized beer through 7-Eleven

Thailand’s second-largest brewer, Chang, is shaking things up with its new unpasteurised beer, packaged in the country’s first screw-top aluminum bottle, developed in partnership with Thai Beverage Can Co Ltd.

The screw-top aluminum bottle is 100% recyclable, keeps the beer cooler than traditional cans, and can be reused for other beverages.

Chang’s unpasteurised beer, developed two years ago and sold in a glass bottle, was previously limited to hotels and restaurants as it required strict cold-chain storage and transportation.

Thailand’s beer market is going upmarket with NielsenIQ (Thailand)‘s data indicates sales of the premium plus beer segment increased by over 30% in the 12 months to September 2024 over the same period a year ago to THB 40 billion. Chang’s latest unpasteurised beer in a screw-top aluminum bottle with its premium image will ride growth in the premium beer segment. Thailand’s beer market in the 12 months to September 2024 grew 5% year-on-year to THB 200 billion.

In Thailand, the mainstream beer market priced at THB 55-60 accounts for 60-70% of the market, while premium beers priced above THB 60 account for around 20%. Chang beer currently offers three premium beer options: Cold Brew, Espresso, and Unpasteurised.

To expand its reach, Chang will utilize 7-Eleven’s nationwide cold transport system to distribute its new THB 89 beer across 10,000 branches by 19 December 2024. The company has allocated a significant THB 100 million for premium product marketing throughout 2025.

Spotted the Chinese New Year campaign by Puck inviting buyers to Buy & Redeem an Exclusive Jute Bag this CNY!

Running from 6th December 2024 to 30th January 2025, this campaign offers consumers the chance to enjoy Puck’s high-quality dairy products while standing a chance to redeem an exclusive Puck Jute Bag.

To participate, customers need to spend a minimum of RM20 on selected Puck products in a single receipt. These products include Puck Cream Cheese, Cheese Slice, Cheese Tub, and more, available at popular retailers such as Jaya Grocer, Giant, Village Grocer, AEON, and others alike. Receipts can be submitted via the QR code displayed on marketing material at participating stores.

With 38 redemptions per week over the eight-week campaign period, customers have plenty of chances to bring home this stylish yet eco-friendly jute bag. Each participant can redeem up to two bags during the promotional period.

Puck is a trusted name in dairy, offering a versatile range of cheeses and spreads that bring convenience, flavour, and creativity to everyday cooking. Established in Germany and launched in the Middle East in 1983, Puck has become one of the region’s leading dairy brands. Loved by families worldwide, Puck inspires confidence in the kitchen with products that meet high standards of quality and taste.

This Chinese New Year campaign shows Puck’s commitment to bringing joy to everyday mealtime and creating meaningful connections with its consumers while rewarding customers with exclusive redeemable items over the festive period.

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