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Heineken® Transforms CBD Office Elevator Into an Afterwork Bar, Surprising Hundreds With an Early First Sip

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Singapore, 7 April 2026 – Heineken® Singapore has brought afterwork forward in a bold stunt where the brand hijacked an everyday office elevator and turned it into an unexpected bar, serving up that long-anticipated first sip.

Most office workers know the feeling: the workday is still running, but the mind has clocked off. The craving for that refreshing, first sip of beer builds through the last meeting, and peaks somewhere in the commute.

So instead of making people wait, Heineken® disrupted the usual afterwork routine, delivering an ice-cold first sip right when it’s most anticipated.

On 1 April, unsuspecting office workers at One Raffles Quay were teased with a sign that said: “The First Sip Is Hard To Wait For.” And at 5.30pm, just as the workday wrapped, the elevator doors opened and afterwork began. Inside, Denise Teo, one of Singapore’s top live streamers, surprised them with a Heineken®, turning an ordinary elevator ride to the ground floor into an experience of refreshment and connection.

Dylan Tan, an office worker in the building shared: “I just ended a long meeting, so being treated with a Heineken in the lift was a nice surprise. I could also see everyone’s mood instantly lift and people started saying cheers with one another.”

“As a brand that champions quality socialising, this stunt brought people together in the most unexpected setting, reminding them that the first sip of Heineken® they’ve been waiting for after work is closer than they think. It’s also a nod that social connections don’t have to be complicated, sometimes, all you need is a little spontaneity and a refreshing Heineken® to kickstart everything,” said Gemma Goh, Marketing Manager, Heineken® Singapore.

More refreshing Heineken Afterwork Experience coming to you

The elevator stunt marks the start of Heineken® Singapore’s Afterwork campaign, championing a more refreshing afterwork routine. From 7 – 16 May 2026, Heineken® unveils Heineken’s First Sip House, a pop-up afterwork destination where your first sip is the key that unlocks a night of refreshing discoveries. Guests aged 18 and above can secure their experience via Klook.

Because getting off work and having that first sip of Heineken® with friends is the best part of the day. And it shouldn’t have to wait.

 

M&M’S and Marvel Team Up for the Ultimate Collaboration

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

The collaboration kicks off with limited-edition packs, digital contest, and prizes for fans in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR (April 7, 2026) – Fans, get ready to assemble…for the next chapter in an exciting collaboration! M&M’S®, proudly part of Mars, and The Walt Disney Company are launching a global campaign between M&M’S and Marvel, and it’s coming to Malaysia.

“At Mars, our global relationship with Disney has always been rooted in a shared belief in the power of fun and creating meaningful moments of connection,” said Rankin Carroll, Chief Brand Officer, Mars Snacking. “M&M’S and Marvel fans share a passion for characters and storytelling. This next phase of our collaboration combines the best of both brands to deliver immersive experiences, content, and new ways for fans to engage. By leading with what our consumers love, we’re inspiring fun, fandom and connection in a way only our two brands can.”  

Beginning 1 April to 31 May 2026, Malaysian residents can join an interactive digital contest by purchasing M&M’S products worth a minimum of MYR15. By scanning the QR code on-pack, fans will gain access to the campaign game and submit their entries for a chance to win. Every participant will also receive a complimentary sign-up e-commerce voucher.  The campaign is open to Malaysian residents aged 16 and above with valid proof of purchase, with terms and conditions apply.

Exciting rewards await – one lucky grand prize winner will receive Shanghai Theme Park tickets for two. The grand prize also includes round-trip flight tickets, and a two-night hotel stay for two, ensuring a complete and unforgettable travel experience. In addition, five winners will receive a premium tablet worth up to MYR2,000, further adding to the lineup of rewards available throughout the campaign. With these prizes up for grabs, the campaign offers fans across Malaysia even more reasons to join and celebrate their favourite M&M’S and Marvel characters.

Fans can also look forward to entertaining digital content, incredible experiences, and seven limited-edition collectible packs featuring never-before-seen M&M’S and Marvel character mashups that combine fun, flavour and fandom. By pairing the iconic storytelling of Marvel with the vibrant, fun world of M&M’S, the two brands are coming together to tell a new story — one that celebrates the fan in everyone.

“We have a wonderful long-term relationship with Mars that enables us to come together in exciting ways,” said Mindy Hamilton, Senior Vice President of Alliance Marketing & Creative at The Walt Disney Company. “The Marvel Universe has built a rich legacy through iconic storytelling, resonating with generations of fans, and it was fun to imagine what could happen if M&M’S Spokescandies were part of that fandom, too. The result is an engaging global campaign that honors fans of both brands, celebrating moments of connection and fun!”

The M&M’S Spokescandies are such big Marvel fans that when the call comes to visit Marvel Studios, they spring into action like true super heroes. Each Spokescandy is convinced it’s their big break— but, is the spotlight really calling, or are they just the snack for the set’s craft services table?

In fun content, fans will see the Spokescandies audition for their Marvel dream roles putting their twist on iconic super heroes and celebrating the fan in all of us. The collaboration will also come to life in the candy aisle with character mashups featured on seven limited-edition M&M’S x Marvel packs.

These mashups include Yellow as Wolverine, Red as Deadpool, Blue as Daredevil, Purple as Elektra, Green as She-Hulk, Brown as Yelena and Orange as Red Guardian and will be available starting on 1 April 2026 at your nearest retail stores in M&M’S Milk & Peanut flavours. Plus, scan the QR code on the packs for a chance to win epic prizes and dive deeper into the colourful collaboration.

And this story keeps unfolding! Throughout 2026, fans in Malaysia and more than 65 markets around the world can expect more exciting crossover moments, fun content, limited-edition products, out of this world perks, alongside in-store experiences.  

Visit M&M’S x Marvel official website, Facebook and Instagram to explore more about the M&M’S and Marvel collaboration. Because when it comes to adventure, “It’s More Fun Together.”

 

iQIYI celebrates C-drama success and unveils 2026 Malaysian Originals Slate at Raya Event

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
Dinesh Ratnam, Senior Managing Director of iQIYI Southeast Asia

iQIYI Expands Local Content Investment and Sees Rising Popularity of C-Dramas in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, 7 April 2026 – iQIYI International, Asia’s leading streaming platform and the home of Asian entertainment with over 6,000 hours of premium content, today reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Malaysia with the unveiling of its 2026 slate of Malay original productions at its Raya event, “Celebr-Eid with Team Raya iQIYI 2026,” graced by YB Teo Nie Ching, Deputy Minister of Communications of Malaysia; Mr. Zheng Xuefang, Minister of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Malaysia; and Mr. Yang Xianghua, President of iQIYI International.

Held in conjunction with the festive season, the event brought together local artistes, production partners, media, and industry stakeholders, alongside distinguished government officials, reflecting iQIYI’s growing role as both a content platform and active investor in Malaysia’s content creative ecosystem.

A Growing Platform for Malaysian Audiences

As the No.1 destination for Chinese entertainment, iQIYI is also seeing rapid growth in cross-cultural viewership. Notably, C-drama has emerged as the fastest-growing genre in Malaysia, with Malay-subtitled C-drama viewership doubling, reflecting iQIYI’s success in reaching a broader and more diverse Malaysian audience.

“Raya is a meaningful time for communities and the creative industry to come together, and we are honoured to celebrate this with the partners, artists and creators that are shaping Malaysian storytelling,” said Dinesh Ratnam, Senior Managing Director of iQIYI Southeast Asia.

“We are proud to expand our commitment with new local Malaysian originals, while continuing to bring the best of Asian entertainment — from local stories to globally loved Chinese dramas — closer to Malaysian audiences.”

Expanding Malaysian Originals and Strengthening the Local Content Ecosystem

As part of its long-term strategy in Malaysia, iQIYI International continues to expand its investment in locally relevant storytelling. The newly announced 2026 slate features five Malay original productions spanning family drama, romance, and suspense, including Dua Nyawa, Madu Atau Racun, Ceraikan Aku Sekali Lagi, Sekali Lagi, Bahagia, and Griya.

Since introducing local Malay dramas in 2020, iQIYI International Malaysia has steadily expanded its footprint in Malaysia, evolving from content acquisitions into active investment in local productions and partnerships. To date, iQIYI has invested a significant amount in Malaysian content across both original productions and licensing, reflecting its long-term commitment to the local industry. iQIYI has produced more than a dozen Malaysian original titles, including standout series such as Rampas Cintaku to Senyawa and more.

Beyond originals, iQIYI also works closely with key broadcast partners, including Media Prima, to bring some of Malaysia’s most popular titles to iQIYI. Together, these efforts contribute to a more comprehensive and competitive local content offering for Malaysian audiences.

Pushing further, iQIYI continues to collaborate closely with local production houses, artistes, and creative partners, contributing to the growth of Malaysia’s entertainment ecosystem. The Raya Event brought together over 30 local artistes and industry partners, reinforcing iQIYI’s long-term presence and investment in the Malaysian market.

iQIYI Malaysia’s partner, Safi, with their Raya theme of “Memperindah versi Terbaikmu”, also highlighted its shared commitment with iQIYI to empower young Malaysian women through storytelling, creativity, and self-expression.

Riding the Rise of C-Drama Popularity and Bridging Entertainment Beyond the Screen

Chinese drama viewership on iQIYI Malaysia has grown significantly, with audiences from various ethnic backgrounds increasingly engaging with the content, reflecting the rising popularity of Chinese dramas in the local market. According to Google Trends, searches related to “Chinese drama” in Malaysia have also been increasing, further indicating growing local interest in the genre.

To meet this growing demand, iQIYI offers many of the most popular Chinese drama titles to Malaysian audiences. Beyond streaming, the iQIYI STARSHIP initiative brings fans closer to their favourite stars through immersive activations, celebrity appearances, fan engagement activities, and content showcases.

Reflecting the strong influence of Chinese drama and drawing closer to the Malaysian audience, iQIYI International Global Ambassador Esther Yu made a special appearance at the iQIYI Raya event, where her drama Speed and Love—the most popular Chinese drama on iQIYI Malaysia in 2025—earned her the Most Popular Chinese Drama Female Character of 2025 award.

These initiatives demonstrate iQIYI’s strategy to bridge digital entertainment with real-world experiences, strengthening fan engagement while bringing Chinese dramas closer to Malaysian audiences.

Looking Ahead

As competition intensifies across the streaming industry, iQIYI’s continued investment in local storytelling, together with its strong lineup of Chinese dramas and strategic partnerships, positions it to play a long-term role in shaping Malaysia’s evolving content landscape.

For updates, please follow:
Instagram: @iqiyimalaysia
TikTok: @iqiyi_malaysia
Facebook: iQIYI Malaysia

Betagro Launches Third Annual Next Gen Program to Cultivate Future Leaders in Thailand’s Integrated Food Industry

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Bangkok – 8 April 2026 – Betagro Public Company Limited (BTG), a leading integrated food company in Thailand, has launched the third annual iteration of its Betagro Next Gen program, a strategic initiative designed to cultivate high-potential young professionals as pivotal drivers of the company’s sustained growth. This comprehensive initiative offers participants unparalleled opportunities to gain invaluable real-world experience, collaborate directly with top management, and significantly enhance their business acumen. The program rigorously strengthens leadership capabilities and sharpens strategic thinking, ultimately empowering these future leaders to unlock their full potential and forge impactful career paths within Thailand’s integrated food industry.

Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications through Betagro’s official channels, including Facebook (Betagro Recruitment), JobsDB, LinkedIn, and the company’s career portal. Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.00, 1-4 years of relevant working experience, demonstrated leadership qualities, high adaptability, and a proactive approach to challenges, excellent English proficiency. Applicants demonstrating advanced English proficiency – evidenced by a TOEIC 700 or higher, IELTS 5.5 or equivalent, Cambridge English Qualifications (FCE or CAE), or CEFR level B2 or C1 – will be significantly advantageous. 

Application Process and Timeline for Betagro Next Gen Batch 3 

  • First-round shortlisted candidates must submit a self-introduction video clip within a specified timeframe. Subsequently, Betagro’s Talent Acquisition Center team will contact these candidates with results and further application details. 
  • Betagro will announce the finalists on May 26, 2026. 
  • The program will officially commence on July 1, 2026, onwards.

Throughout the past 2 years, Betagro Next Gen program has consistently empowered high-potential young professionals to become key drivers within the organization, leveraging a rigorous selection and development process. Participants gain enhanced learning and real-world experience across 2 primary areas: Strategic Commercial (e.g., Business Strategy, Business Development, Marketing, and Business Transformation) and Strategic Operation (e.g., Robotic Engineering, Automation & IoT Engineering, Project Engineering, Process Optimization, Supply Chain Planning, and Logistics).

The program also incorporates consistent performance evaluation, culminating in a final pitch where participants present innovative ideas and business plans for consideration in key future positions within the Betagro Group.

Mr. Pasit Phoungthong, a representative from Betagro Next Gen Batch 2 shared “Having previously worked in the Financial Technology (FinTech) industry, I joined this program to broaden my experience, particularly in strategic planning within the food sector. Betagro Next Gen program offered invaluable real-world experience through diverse business unit rotations, which helped us identify our strengths and ideal long-term career roles. This has exceptionally benefited our professional journeys.

“Moreover, participants gain international experience through overseas work assignments to better understand cross-functional business operations. Throughout the one-year program, they learn business operations through mentorship with diverse business experts. This comprehensive approach enables participants to fully develop their potential while receiving guidance and career planning support from Talent Acquisition Center (TAC) team,” Mr. Pasit added.

Ms. Genevieve Siriwan Finet, Chief Human Resources Officer, Betagro Public Company Limited said “For over 58 years, Betagro has consistently demonstrated robust, sustained growth, built upon strong foundations in its integrated food business, operational excellence, and a highly skilled workforce. As we continue to drive business growth, we actively seek to attract high-potential young professionals to become a vital part of the company, encouraging their fresh ideas and innovative mindsets to further contribute to our ongoing success.

“The new generation’s unique perspectives, innovative ideas, and agility are essential for navigating today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. Betagro Next Gen program not only cultivates these future leaders, but also strengthens our key workforce, driving sustainable growth, ensuring social and environmental stewardship, and delivering innovative, superior food solutions,” Ms. Genevieve concluded.

For further inquiries, please contact Ms. Chanikarn Suwannasap (Tal), Betagro’s Talent Acquisition Center via Tel. (+66) 061-176-4434 or email: ChanikarnS@betagro.com.

iQIYI Starship 2026 Touches Down in Kuala Lumpur, Featuring Esther Yu in a Special Appearance

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

iQIYI International Global Ambassador Esther Yu delights Malaysian fans with unforgettable interactive moments while celebrating the success of Speed and Love

KUALA LUMPUR, 7 April 2026 – Fans in Malaysia were treated to an electrifying night as iQIYI Starship 2026 made its highly anticipated debut in Kuala Lumpur, headlined by iQIYI International Global Ambassador Esther Yu.

Organised by iQIYI International, Asia’s leading streaming platform, the event brought together more than 1,000 audiences, including iQIYI Malaysia Annual VIP customers, media, partners, and fans, reflecting Esther Yu’s immense popularity in Malaysia and the growing appetite among Malaysians for premium Asian entertainment.

A Star Arrival That Brought Malaysian Audiences Closer Than Ever

From the moment she stepped on stage, Esther Yu captivated the crowd with her signature charm and warmth.

The event featured a series of engaging segments, including an exclusive media Q&A, on-stage games, and special fan moments. Local personalities such as Moses Wong, Jestinna Kuan, and Rasyidah Binti Abu Johan also participated, bringing fans closer to the star than ever.

One of the evening’s standout highlights saw Esther Yu attempting Malay phrases live on stage, earning loud cheers from the audience as she embraced local culture and connected with fans in a heartfelt and personal way.

Celebrating the Success of Speed and Love

The evening also marked a celebration of Speed and Love, an iQIYI Original C-Drama which has gained strong traction with audiences across Southeast Asia.

Esther Yu’s portrayal of Jiang Mu has resonated deeply with audiences, earning her the title of iQIYI Malaysia’s 2025 Most Popular Modern C-Drama Female Character — a testament to the character’s emotional impact and widespread appeal.

Expressing her gratitude on stage, Esther Yu shared, “I’m so happy to meet everyone in Malaysia. I’ve felt so much love and support for me, and I hope I can come back again soon.” 

A Celebration Beyond the Screen: Bringing Fans Closer Than Ever

More than just a fan event, iQIYI Starship 2026 in Malaysia showcased how entertainment is evolving beyond the screen. Reflecting the growing popularity of C-Dramas in Malaysia, the event underscores iQIYI’s strategy to bridge digital entertainment with real-world experiences, deepening connections between audiences and the stars they love.

As one of iQIYI’s key initiatives to drive the globalisation of Chinese content, iQIYI STARSHIP brings together immersive on-ground experiences, celebrity interactions, and curated content showcases, enabling audiences to connect more deeply with Chinese storytelling in a meaningful and experiential way.

A key highlight of the evening was a special lucky draw, where 80 lucky fans were selected for exclusive group photo sessions with Esther Yu, turning admiration into unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Commenting on the significance of Malaysia as the first stop of iQIYI Starship 2026, Dinesh Ratnam, Senior Managing Director of iQIYI Southeast Asia, said, “Malaysia is an increasingly important market for iQIYI in Southeast Asia, and we are excited to bring iQIYI Starship 2026 here as a meaningful way to connect with audiences beyond the screen. With Esther Yu’s special appearance in Malaysia and the strong love shown for Speed and Love, this is a special opportunity to celebrate fandom, stories and shared entertainment experiences together.”

For updates, please follow:
Instagram: @iqiyimalaysia
TikTok: @iqiyi_malaysia
Facebook: iQIYI Malaysia

Orion Food Vina expands with fresh flavours and heritage‑inspired treats

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
Image credit: Orion Vietnam

Orion Food Vina is launching a special Strawberry Collection in Vietnam, showcasing three of its signature brands: ChocoPie, Custas, and Gouté. The lineup includes ChocoPie Strawberry, Custas Cheese with Raspberry, Strawberry & Blueberry and Gouté Crème Strawberry Yogurt Sandwich Cookies. Together, these refreshing strawberry flavours deliver a delightful snacking experience.

The Gouté Crème Strawberry Yogurt Flavoured Sandwich Cookies, together with Orion Gouté Crème Peanut Butter Flavoured Sandwich Cookies, are recent launches and contain 35% cream.

In addition to the Strawberry Collection, Orion Food Vina has introduced Custas Bakery Castella Egg Lava, positioned as a nutrient‑rich and convenient meal replacement for young people and office workers. The product is 2.1 times larger than regular Custas and features an ultra‑soft Castella sponge texture. Its protein content is equivalent to that found in one egg or 100ml of milk.

The company has also introduced Orion Gouté Topping Coconut Green Rice Crackers, coated with young green rice as well as C’est Bon Cake with Mochi & Coconut Green Rice.

The C’est Bon Cake with Mochi & Coconut Green Rice brings a modern twist to traditional flavors. For the first time, a soft, multi‑layered European‑style cake is crafted with distinctly Vietnamese ingredients — young green rice, pandan leaves, and coconut — delicately blended into a creamy green rice filling and layered within moist sponge.

More than just a dessert, C’est Bon with Mochi & Coconut Green Rice serves as a bridge between heritage and the new generation — inviting those who seek fresh experiences while honoring the essence of Vietnamese culture.

CP’s LUMi blends refreshment with function for Gen Z lifestyle needs

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Image credit: CP

Thailand’s CP has made a more mainstream move in the beverage category with the launch of LUMi, a sparkling drink crafted to appeal to Gen Z while delivering better‑for‑you functional benefits. Positioned as a modern soda for a daily reset, LUMi taps into the healthy pleasure trend by combining refreshment with ingredients that support focus and eye health.

The orange calamansi flavoured sparkling beverage is fortified with L‑theanine, zinc, vitamin B complex and goji berry extract — all ingredients that align with the growing popularity of vitamin‑enriched drinks in Thailand. By using familiar and trusted nutrients, CP reduces the need for consumer education while positioning LUMi as both refreshing and beneficial.

  • L‑theanine – Promotes calm focus, helping you concentrate without stress or jitters.
  • Vitamin B Complex – Boosts energy and supports brain clarity, reducing fatigue and mental fog.
  • Zinc – Essential for healthy vision, aids night vision, and protects eyes from strain.
  • Goji Berry Extract – Rich in antioxidants that shield eyes from damage and keep them strong.

Gen Z’s digital‑heavy, active lifestyles — balancing study, work and side hustles — demand sustained concentration and protection from screen strain. Ingredients like L‑theanine are especially appealing, offering calm focus without the crash of caffeine.

 

Kato Soda series goes tropical with Blue Hawaii

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Image credit: Facebook/ขนมใหม่ ณ ไทยแลนด์

Taveephol’s Kato brand, widely recognized for its playful, fun‑flavored juice drinks, has extended the flavour lineup of its latest sugar-free, calorie-free Soda series with the addition of Blue Hawaii. This new Blue Hawaii mocktail flavour joins the existing fruity range, which already features lychee and golden muscat, further broadening the appeal of the series and offering consumers more variety in refreshing, flavour‑forward and sugar-free choices.

Taokaenoi surprises with mashed potato gravy seaweed snack

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Image credit: allonline.7eleven.co.th

Taokaenoi has introduced an unexpected twist to its seaweed snack lineup with the launch of a new Mashed Potato Gravy flavour. This unusual combination blends the familiar crispiness of roasted seaweed with the comforting taste of mashed potatoes and savory gravy, aiming to surprise consumers and tap into adventurous snacking trends.

In a related move, Thailand’s leading seaweed snack brand has broadened its topping range by introducing a Japanese Soy Sauce flavour. This expansion not only diversifies the product line but also enhances the versatility of seaweed snacks, positioning them as flavorful add‑ins that can complement a variety of meals and occasions.

Taokaenoi has also added a Smoked BBQ flavour to its seaweed snack range, delivering an authentic barbecue taste.

As part of its diversification strategy, Taokaenoi has rolled out the HAVE A GOOD DAY Crispy Rice Snack in two flavours — milk and cheese. Priced at just THB 20 each, the new snacks with added New Zealand milk are conveniently available across all 7‑Eleven outlets.

 

 

 

Koppiku launches limited‑edition tea drinks

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
Image by Koppiku

The Malaysian home‑grown coffee chain Koppiku has unveiled a trio of limited‑edition tea creations: Mango Jasmine Milk Tea, Jasmine Milk Tea, and Da Hong Pao Milk Tea. This launch reflects the growing trend in the foodservice industry, where many players are introducing Chagee‑style tea beverages to tap into the rising popularity of Chinese‑inspired tea drinks.

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