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Beautiful Malaysia: A Celebration of Cultural Heritage through Food, Fashion, and Art

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Kuala Lumpur, February 27, 2025 — The “Beautiful Malaysia” event, supported by the
Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), is a collaborative initiative by Grandmama’s and FM Group that was recently held at Grandmama’s Pavilion Damansara Heights. More than just an event, “Beautiful Malaysia” is a vibrant platform designed to celebrate and preserve Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage by uniting the worlds of gastronomy, heritage fashion, and traditional artistry. Through this initiative, the interconnectedness of these elements is brought to life, reinforcing Malaysia’s identity while offering a contemporary appreciation of its traditions.

Designed to align with the Iftar and Raya seasons, “Beautiful Malaysia” seeks to deepen appreciation for Malaysian heritage by seamlessly blending tradition with modern influences. At the heart of this celebration is Grandmama’s, an establishment renowned for its commitment to authentic Malaysian cuisine since its founding in 2012. With seven outlets across the Klang Valley, its flagship location at Pavilion Damansara Heights spans an impressive 8,000 square feet, offering an elegant yet comfortable setting with four exclusive private rooms and a seating capacity of approximately 150—perfect for intimate gatherings and grand festive celebrations alike.

This year, Grandmama’s unveiled its latest Iftar buffet, “Keindahan Rasa,” a carefully curated menu that pays tribute to Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage. Featuring dishes such as the unique Nasi Biryani Ayam Kambus, the traditional Beef Rendang Tok from Perak, and the signature Curry Laksa, the buffet showcases a harmonious blend of flavours and traditions that define Malaysian cuisine. Chef Raja Kamaroszaman, Head Chef of Malay Cuisine at Grandmama’s, expressed, “This year’s theme, ‘Keindahan Rasa,’ is more than just a culinary event—it is a celebration of our cultural identity and diversity. Our goal is to create an immersive dining experience that not only delights the palate but also educates and inspires an appreciation for Malaysia’s culinary heritage. Each dish embodies the beauty of our flavours and fosters togetherness during this festive season.”

To further promote the spirit of togetherness, Grandmama’s Iftar buffet is priced at RM89++ per person, with a special rate of RM59++ for seniors and children. Additionally, a limited-time “Buy 4, Get 1 Free” offer from March 10 to 16 enhances the communal
experience of breaking fast with loved ones.

Complementing this gastronomic journey, FM Group brings Malaysian heritage fashion to the forefront with a breathtaking showcase of traditional Malay attire. The collection integrates intricate embroidery techniques, batik and songket fabrics, and traditional accessories that highlight Malaysia’s textile heritage. Designed by notable names such as Farel Mikhail, Wan Penanti (Penang), Zhu Said (Kedah), Arm Nabil (Malacca), Norariffin D’Jejari Emas & Mohd Abass Seri Sanding Bridal (Sarawak), the showcase features elegant traditional ensembles from different states, blending timeless craftsmanship with
contemporary aesthetics.

Farel Mikhail, Director of FM Group, emphasised the role of fashion in preserving cultural
heritage: “Fashion, like food and art, is a powerful medium to keep our cultural identity alive. Through ‘Beautiful Malaysia,’ we aim to reinvigorate and enrich Malaysia’s fashion heritage, ensuring that traditional craftsmanship remains relevant for future generations. This initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to empower, preserve, and restore our history, culture, and heritage, reinforcing the beauty of our multi-ethnic society.”

Meanwhile, ‘Jabatan Kemajuan Masyarakat’- KEMAS plays a vital role in preserving
Malaysia’s artistic heritage through live demonstrations of traditional embroidery techniques. These intricate designs, passed down through generations, are brought to life by skilled artisans, allowing guests to witness firsthand the cultural significance of Malaysian embroidery. Additionally, heritage Tekat pieces, showcased by the Precious of Malaysia, further highlight the depth of Malaysia’s artistic traditions.

Beautiful Malaysia” successfully demonstrated how tradition and modernity can be seamlessly integrated, strengthening appreciation for Malaysia’s cultural tapestry. This initiative not only celebrates heritage but also serves as a platform for ongoing conversations about preserving and reinterpreting traditions for the future. More than just a one-time event, “Beautiful Malaysia” is a movement dedicated to promoting cultural conservation, supporting Visit Malaysia Year 2026, and ensuring that Malaysia’s rich heritage continues to thrive in contemporary society.

For more information about the ‘Beautiful Malaysia’ event, please visit the social media
pages of Grandmama’s and Precious of Malaysia:

Facebook: facebook.com/grandmamas.com.my
Instagram: @grandmamasmsia / @preciousofmalaysia TikTok: @preciousofmalaysia

Julie’s Premieres ‘Selamat Lari Raya’: The Latest Short Film in Their Running List of Thought-Provoking Festive Films

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Kuala Lumpur, 3 March 2025 –  Julie’s is redefining festive storytelling with its latest Hari Raya short film called “Selamat Lari Raya”. Known for its thought-provoking festive narratives, the brand takes a new approach this year – delivering a story that is deeply moving and haunting, yet heartwarming. This isn’t just a short film, it invites viewers on a journey of reflection, questioning the true meaning of forgiveness this festive season.

The short film centres around the life of Johan, a man who has spent his life running from his problems and past. Played by the popular Malaysian actor Fimie Don, Johan’s life was anything but easy. Orphaned at a young age and raised by his grandparents, he eventually fell in with the wrong crowd. This led him down a path of crime and ultimately, prison. His greatest burden isn’t serving time in prison. It is the overwhelming guilt he carries over the death of his beloved grandmother Melati, portrayed by Dian P. Ramlee, whose shadow continues to visit him in his darkest moments being locked up.

While behind bars, Johan’s grandfather, Pak Hassan, played by veteran actor Dato A. Tamimi Siregar, desperately tries to reconnect with him. But riddled by guilt, Johan refuses his bid for connection. Determined not be ignored, Hassan embarks on an unexpected mission, by attempting various petty crimes to land himself in the same prison as Johan and succeeded.

Now with Hassan in prison, and Melati’s lingering presence by his side, Johan has nowhere left to run. Johan was forced by his grandparents to finally face his past and  grief that he had been burying for so long. Instead of judgement, he is met with love and forgiveness that had been there all along. As Johan reflected on childhood memories of Hari Raya with his grandparents, especially during the tradition of seeking forgiveness through ‘salam’ – Johan finally understands a lesson they once taught him: forgiveness must start within. By accepting their forgiveness and most importantly, learning to forgive himself, Johan finds peace within and rekindles his bond with Hassan.

Tzy Horng Sai, Director of Julie’s Biscuits said, “As we mark our fifth year of Raya storytelling, we take our audiences on a self-reflective emotional journey about familial reconciliation and forgiveness. Our film delves into the silent killer of unresolved guilt and grief that destroy family dynamics. However, Hari Raya is a time of renewal, healing, and second chances, and we show the importance of addressing the psychological barriers in our healing process.”

“To bring this powerful narrative to life, we collaborated with esteemed actors, whose performances deeply embody the emotional weight of this story, making it all the more resonant and impactful.” He adds.

Having collaborated with Julie’s on all of the previous Hari Raya festive short films, the Chief Creative Officer of GOVT, Aaron Koh said, “Unlike our previous Raya films, we wanted to deliver a wild rollercoaster of emotions this year, blending suspense, humour, fear, and sadness – to resonate with people from different backgrounds. It was a risky endeavour as we have grown a large fanbase over the years, with a recognisable Julie’s Raya tonality, which we have now completely flipped for this year’s. This festive season is the time for forgiveness, yet self-forgiveness, a powerful step to happiness and renewal in life – is rarely discussed. We hope that with this film, we can start conversations surrounding the subject matter and to get people to focus on themselves this Raya.”

Celebrate the spirit of Hari Raya with ‘Selamat Lari Raya’, a story that challenges us to reflect, forgive, and heal. This short film is now available for viewing on Julie’s official YouTube channel. For customers who are getting started on their Hari Raya preparations, can purchase the Julie’s Love Letters which is conveniently packed in a tub for gifting or snacking. For those who like to get creative, can try their hand at making their own Hari Raya snacks by incorporating the love letters into their kuih raya. To get some ideas on how you can create them, visit the Julie’s recipe page here.

The Love Letters are available in three classic flavours, namely Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla. Get them at your nearest retail stores or online at the official Julie’s Shopee and Lazada flagship stores. To get continuous updates on Julie’s latest promotions, contests, and activities, visit our website or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JuliesBiscuits and Instagram at www.instagram.com/juliesbiscuits.

To watch Julie’s previous Hari Raya Short Films, click on the links below:

About Julie’s

Julie’s is an international, award-winning biscuit brand sold in 80 countries. Founded in Melaka, Malaysia and marketed as Julie’s since 1985, the brand undertook its milestone rebranding campaign in 2020. The original blonde Julie, a household icon, has been rejuvenated to appeal to today’s consumers. Julie now sports a shorter bob-haircut, red and blue headband with a forward and an upward look of certainty, reinventing her appeal with new generation consumers. For further information on Julie’s Biscuits, visit https://www.julies.com.my/

The Tapping Tapir Expands gutC Prebiotic Range with New Mix Berry Flavour

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
Image credit: The Tapping Tapir

KUALA LUMPUR, Mar 3, 2025 – (ACN Newswire) – The Tapping Tapir, Malaysia’s pioneering brand of naturally flavoured sparkling beverages, has introduced the latest addition to its gutC prebiotic drink range – Mix Berry. The new flavour was officially unveiled at the brand’s wellness-driven Valentine’s Day event at Pickle Nation, themed “Self-Love and Gut Love.” This unique gathering blended fitness, mindfulness, and social connection, reinforcing the importance of gut health and self-care in daily life.

Since its inception in 2013, The Tapping Tapir has been dedicated to crafting all-natural, additive-free beverages made from real fruit juices, spices, and herbs. The gutC range, designed to support digestive wellness, reflects the brand’s commitment to health-conscious innovation. Recognising that 70% of the immune system is linked to gut health, gutC offers a low-calorie, prebiotic-infused selection of refreshing drinks that seamlessly fit into modern lifestyles.

With the launch of Mix Berry, gutC now features four unique flavours: Mix Berry, Peach, Grape, and Lychee – the latter being an exclusive offering at 7-Eleven outlets. Each variant is carefully formulated with prebiotics (Inulin & Apple Cider Vinegar) to support digestion, Vitamin C to strengthen the immune system, and less than 2g of sugar, keeping each can under 15 calories for a guilt-free, refreshing beverage experience.

To mark the launch of Mix Berry, The Tapping Tapir hosted a special Valentine’s Day event at Pickle Nation, bringing together a diverse crowd of health enthusiasts, professional athletes, influencers, and brand partners for a day of self-care and gut health awareness. Attendees were treated to an array of immersive experiences that highlighted movement, mindfulness, and social connection.

Participants took part in pickleball training sessions, where beginners were introduced to the fast-growing sport under expert guidance. Wellness expert Piyachai Teo led guided meditation and breathwork workshops, promoting relaxation and stress relief. The event also featured an invigorating ice bath recovery experience, showcasing the benefits of cold therapy for muscle recovery and mental clarity. Throughout the day, guests were invited to visit sampling stations, where they had the first taste of the new gutC Mix Berry, alongside other beverages from The Tapping Tapir.

KOLs, celebrities, and Pickleball players at the gutC Mix Berry launch party, including Cik Manggis, Atita Haris, Intan Sarah, and Fad Anuar

The highlight of the event was a social pickleball tournament, which saw friendly competition among influencers, celebrities, and professional pickleball players. Among the notable attendees were Toi Sieu Ee, Malaysia’s No. 2-ranked pickleball player, alongside well-known personalities such as Cik Manggis, Mark O’Dea, Luqman Hafidz, and Intan Sarah. VIP guests from Diamond & Platinum, Christy Ng, and Pickle Fox were also present, adding to the vibrancy of the occasion.

The competition concluded with participants vying for prizes in the Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles categories, with winners taking home RM500 cash prizes and a Six Zero Quartz Paddle, generously sponsored by Pickle Fox. Adding an element of glamour, Diamond & Platinum awarded a diamond necklace to the best-dressed guest, while two lucky winners received RM500 shopping vouchers.

With the expanded gutC range, The Tapping Tapir continues to redefine healthy beverages in Malaysia. As a brand known for innovation and sustainability, it remains committed to sourcing high-quality natural ingredients from local farmers, minimising processing, and prioritising eco-friendly packaging. Widely available in premium retailers, cafés, and hotels, The Tapping Tapir is making it easier for consumers to embrace healthier, more responsible choices in their daily lives.

For more information about gutC Mix Berry and upcoming events, visit www.thetappingtapir.com or follow The Tapping Tapir on its Facebook and Instagram pages.

Shin Ramyun Tom Yum by Jay Fai now in Malaysia

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
Image credit: Minimeinsights.com

Nongshim Shin Stir Fry Ramyun Tom Yum (bowl and pack) is now available for purchase in Malaysia. The instant noodle is a collaboration between Bangkok’s stir-frying wok queen Jay Fai and South Korea’s instant noodle brand Shin Ramyun.

This instant noodle blends the fiery, rich taste of Nongshim Shin Ramyun with the tangy, umami depth of Thai Tom Yum.

Key takeaways: collaborate with a local chef who is well known in the region to make the product export-ready

Chocolatos goes vanilla

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Indonesia’s PT Garudafood Putra Putri Jaya Tbk expands its Chocolatos powdered Italian chocolate drink line with the introduction of a new vanilla flavour. Experience the perfect harmony of white chocolate and vanilla with the new Chocolatos Drink Smooth Vanilla Latte. This delightful drink delivers a smooth and rich flavour experience.

Key takeways: fusion flavour to elevate the experience

est Cola with brown sugar gets a refreshing new look

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

est Cola, the cola sweetened with brown sugar, distinguishes itself further with a brand new, revitalised look that exudes a refreshing feel. The communication highlights how the carbonated soft drink offers a uniquely delicious experience.

Key takeaways: refreshed brand identity

New Beauti Double C Fibre Lemon and Honey promotes regular bowel movements

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Beauti Double C Fibre Lemon and Honey is a new drink designed to improve digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements, reducing constipation and cleansing waste from the digestive system. The delicious drink contains 15,000mg of fibre and is priced at THB 25 per bottle at 7-Eleven. This drink uses images to suggest effectiveness.

Key takeaways: digestion, gut health and bowel movements

Durian lovers rejoice as Mali offers new durian condensed milk

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Thailand’s Mali Group has launched a new durian-flavoured condensed milk. Made with 100% real durian, this plant-based sweetened condensed milk can be used for a variety of menu items such as bread, fried dough sticks, ice cream, desserts, sticky rice, or beverages

Plus, it comes in an easy-to-use squeeze tube that’s convenient to open, close, and carry anywhere, anytime.

Indonesia’s Indofood has recently launched something similar in the sweetened condesed milk category.

Key takeaways: elevate the taste with durian flavour

 

Yamazaki MYROTI debuts new flavours including pandan and lemon pie

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

The new Wassant Pandan from Yamazaki MYROTI features a soft texture with a delicious pandan flavour that will boost the mood all day long. It is also perfect for enjoying with friends while having coffee on the weekend.

Additionally, the company has released Roti Tawar Lembut Premium. The Premium Soft White Bread offers a new experience of enjoying thick white bread in one bite. It is perfect to combine with with the favorite toppings or consumed as a satisfying meal for the family.

Yamazaki MYROTI has also launched Lemon Pie, which has a delicious, layered texture combined with a fresh and sweet lemon pasta filling, ready to be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.

Key takeaways: new flavour and texture

‘Dapur Goodday” Missi Sarimah & Tuyah vs Che Ton’ Watch Today & Buy Tomorrow! Malaysia’s First-Ever Reality Cooking Drama with a Groundbreaking Concept

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
Left to Right: Tony Eusoff (from P. Ramlee), Syazwan Zakariah (Head of Content Studio, Astro), Nas Muammar Zar (from Keluang Man), YM Raja Jastina Raja Arshad (Head of Astro Shaw & Vice President of Malay Nusantara Business, Astro), Amy Gan (Vice President of Marketing, Etika Sdn Bhd), Norsalvina Alwee (Head of Brand, Distribution, Marketing & Sales, Astro Shaw), Ezu Zashim (starring as Tuyah), Zarina Zainoordin (starring as Sarimah), Hatta Salam (starring as Pakcik Hassan)

‘Bringing You Special Ramadan Delights with Goodday Throughout Ramadan’

  • Innovative collaboration of merging TV entertainment with live culinary experiences with the first-ever reality cooking drama series.
  • Ramadan bazaar of a 29-day event at Shah Alam Stadium, signature dishes with key ingredient Goodday Milk, and celebrity meet-ups.

28 February 2025, Kuala Lumpur – This Ramadan, Gempak, in collaboration with Goodday, presents Dapur Goodday: Misi Sarimah & Tuyah VS Che Ton, Malaysia’s first-ever reality cooking drama featuring a unique concept of Watch Today, Buy Tomorrow! at Bazaar Ramadan Stadium Shah Alam! ‘Dapur Goodday: Misi Sarimah & Tuyah VS Che Ton’ will air daily on Astro Ria throughout Ramadan, starting from March 1st at 5:30 pm. Additionally, the show will be accessible on On Demand and Astro GO. Viewers can experience the flavours firsthand by purchasing the featured dishes showcased in the programme at the Ramadan Bazaar at Stadium Shah Alam from March 2nd to March 29th.

What makes this show special is that every recipe features Goodday milk as a key ingredient, enriching the flavours of each dish. Some of the must-try Ramadan delights include Nasi Hujan Panas, Roti John, Bread and Butter Pudding, Kari Ikan Bawal, Ayam Percik, and many more.

Beyond purchasing the featured dishes, bazaar-goers can take part in exciting activities, including a game of spin-the-wheel with a minimum spend of RM20 for a sure chance of a reward. They can also enjoy meet-and-greet sessions with the celebrity cast of Dapur Goodday: Misi Sarimah & Tuyah VS Che Ton and win exclusive prizes from Astro Shaw and Goodday.

Goodday is honoured to embrace the spirit of Ramadan by setting up its very own booth at the bazaar. The same 29 featured dishes from the 29 Dapur Goodday episodes will be made available by the next day at the bazaar, inviting the community to experience authentic, wholesome meals made of rich and delicious Goodday milk. This initiative is especially relevant during the holy month, a time of self-reflection and unity, as it brings families and friends together over shared culinary delights, reinforcing Goodday’s commitment to nurturing togetherness and celebrating Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage.

Adding to the excitement of the first-ever reality cooking drama, Dapur Goodday cranks up the drama to an entirely new level! Not only does it revive beloved characters from last year’s hit Ramadan drama, Khun:sa, featuring the ever-charismatic trio of Che Ton played by Sherry Alhadad, Sarimah by Zarina Zainoordin, and Tuyah by Ezu Hashim, but it also infuses the entire series with an exciting new twist. This time, Sarimah and Tuyah make a dramatic return to Earth after a mysterious UFO abduction, reuniting Che Ton under tense circumstances. An enigmatic stranger then thrusts them into a high-stakes mission: perform a series of extraordinary good deeds over 29 consecutive days, with their very fate hanging in the balance. Succeed, and they secure their place on Earth permanently, as they certainly don’t want to know what would happen if they fail! Dapur Goodday is not just a cooking show – it’s a merging of feel-good moments and pulse-pounding episodes with the delicious, wholesome feeling of Goodday in every unique dish presented!

The show also features special guest appearances in each episode, bringing in iconic Malaysian film and drama characters, including Zizan Razak from the famed Polis Evo movies, Datuk Rosyam Noor from Kala Malam Bulan Mengambang, Scha Al-Yahya in Awan Dania, Naim Daniel in Project: High Council, Joey Daud in Kampung Pisang Bersiri-Siri, Tony Eusoff from P. Ramlee and many more!

Left: Ezu Zashim (starring as Tuyah), Syazwan Zakariah (Head of Content Studio, Astro), YM Raja
Jastina Raja Arshad (Head of Astro Shaw & Vice President of Malay Nusantara Business, Astro),
Amy Gan (Vice President of Marketing, Etika Sdn Bhd), Zarina Zainoordin (starring as Sarimah)

According to the Head of Astro Shaw & Vice President of Malay Nusantara Business, Astro, Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, Dapur Goodday: Misi Sarimah & Tuyah VS Che Ton is not just a reality cooking drama but a groundbreaking innovation that bridges entertainment with real-life experiences.

“For the first time, audiences aren’t just watching a cooking show and learning recipes from their screens—they can now taste and purchase the very dishes they see on TV at the Ramadan bazaar. What’s even more exciting is that the celebrity guests will personally be at the bazaar every weekend throughout Ramadan to engage with fans and sell the featured dishes. This initiative paves the way for new opportunities in content creation by integrating entertainment, consumer experiences, and broader commercial value. We are honoured to have Goodday as our strategic partner and hope this initiative brings fresh value to the Malaysian content landscape while offering a unique experience for viewers.

“At Goodday Milk, we have always believed in creating meaningful and immersive experiences that bring people together. Dapur Goodday: Misi Sarimah & Tuyah VS Che Ton is more than just a reality cooking show—it’s a celebration of storytelling, culture, and the joy of food. By integrating Goodday Milk into the recipes and narratives, we are reinforcing our brand’s role in making everyday moments more wholesome and enjoyable. What makes this collaboration even more special is the opportunity for fans to not only watch these exciting dishes come to life on screen but also taste them firsthand at the Ramadan bazaar. This initiative allows us to connect with our consumers in a way that is both interactive and engaging, strengthening the bond between Goodday Milk and the communities we serve. We are incredibly proud to be part of this groundbreaking project and look forward to sharing the goodness of Goodday Milk with Malaysians nationwide,”
added Amy Gan, Vice President of Marketing at Etika Sdn Bhd.

Amy Gan (Vice President of Marketing, Etika Sdn Bhd) at the Dapur Goodday Press Conference

Catch Dapur Goodday: Misi Sarimah & Tuyah VS Che Ton on Astro Ria daily throughout Ramadan, starting 1 March at 5:30 pm, and on On Demand and Astro GO. Join the conversation on social media using #DapurGooddayMisiSarimah&TuyahVSCheTon, and stay updated by following Goodday Milk Malaysia’s Facebook & Instagram or following Gempak’s Instagram, TikTok, X, and Facebook. Plus, with a simple scan of the QR code at the booth, bazaargoers get instant access to the day’s special recipes.

 

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