7-Eleven Malaysia has launched its own private-label RTD collagen drink in a shot format (50ml). The convenience store chain previously launched an RTD collagen drink in a larger drink format back in 2022. The 7-Eleven collagen drink with 3,500mg of collagen comes in Lychee and strawberry flavour.
7-Eleven Malaysia is experimenting with various private-label products to generate higher-margin products and items and categories that appeal to consumers.Â
Oatside is promoting its pocket packs (200ml) in more Southeast Asian markets. Beyond Indonesia and Singapore, the fast-growing oat milk brand has recently launched its 200ml Oatside in the Philippines, following the recent introduction in Malaysia.
The 200ml pocket-sized pack is ideal for on-the-go consumption and as a standalone drink. Oatside is also better positioned to recruit younger consumers through the 200ml format compared to the 1L format, which is more suited for at-home consumption.
âWe started in the Philippines in 2022 with Oatsideâs 1L range and we have had great reception from cafe partners and consumers across the country. People love that our oat milks are low in sugar but donât feel like a compromise on taste, which resonates with our mission of being the plant milk for people who donât care for plant milks. We are so excited to share our new range of Oatside Pocket Packs with Filipinos, with a convenient on-the-go format and also introducing our new variantâthe Oat Latte,â said Benedict Lim, CEO of Oatside.
Prego, Malaysia’s market leader in pasta sauces, has recently offered instant pasta in a convenient bowl format for the local market. The new products are available in Mushroom Carbonara (71g) and Mac & Cheese (70g). Prego Bowl Mac & Cheese Instant Pasta is made from with real imported cheddar cheese. The convenient bowl format enables Prego to capture more consumption needs.
Arla Singapore exhibited its latest high-protein range at FHA-Food & Beverage 2024, including Arla Protein Shake (250g) with BCAA and 20g of protein in a bottle. The lactose-free Arla Protein Shake with BCAA has no added sugar and is enriched with magnesium, zinc, and vitamin D to fuel sporting needs and support intense everyday life.
The drink has BCAAs that synthesize protein and help increase the rate of muscle growth while reducing the feeling of fatigue.
Image credit: Minimeinsights.com
Arla Singapore has also showcased its Arla Protein Chocolate Flavoured Milk in a new 1L format to complement the existing 500ml bottle. This high-protein drink contains 19g of protein per 333ml.Â
The company also exhibited its range of high-protein spoonable yogurt, offering 20g of protein per pot. The flavours include Passionfruit and papaya, Strawberry, and Blueberry.
Arla Singapore currently sells Arla Protein Flavoured Milk (500ml) and Arla Protein Pudding with 20g of protein per pot.
LTH Food Industries launched the Jersey Durian Flavoured Sweetened Condensed Milk in the Philippines in early 2024. The new product demonstrates the feasibility of having a durian-flavoured sweetened condensed milk category to add a touch of durian flavour to various food creations, ranging from durian cake, durian pie tarts to durian pastillas. The company showcased the same product at the recent FHA-Food & Beverage in Singapore.Â
Jersey Durian Flavored Sweetened Condensed Creamer is now available at Visayas and Mindanao.
Spokesperson: Dr Shailendra Sivalingam, Consultant Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), Otology, Neurotology, Head & Neck, and Skull Base Surgery at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City
In Malaysia, oral cancer, a potentially deadly disease characterised by silent progression and often late-stage diagnosis, has emerged as a significant public health concern. However, studies reveal that the survival rate for oral cancer among Malaysians is nearly 50% after treatment with surgery and radiotherapy, which is much lower than in most developed countries. According to Cancer Research Malaysia, in 2020, 377,713 individuals were diagnosed with oral cancer globally, and 177,757 succumbed to the disease.
Dr Shailendra
Dr Shailendra Sivalingam, Consultant Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), Otology, Neurotology, Head & Neck, and Skull Base Surgery at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, offers in-depth insights into oral cancer among Malaysians, emphasising the necessity of early diagnosis and treatment. Â
Unveiling the Causes and Lifestyle Factors of Oral CancerÂ
“Oral cancer, which often affects the gums, cheeks, tongue, and tonsils, can present as white patches or ulcers. Depending on the cancerâs location, it can quickly spread to the throat or lymph nodes due to the oral cavity’s rich lymphatic drainage system, enabling tumor cells to disseminate early,” Dr. Shailendra explains.
The disease arises from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, with significant contributions from both HPV-related and non-HPV-related causes. HPV, especially high-risk types like HPV-16, is strongly linked to oropharyngeal cancers, demonstrating a strong causal relationship, particularly in tonsil-related cancers.Â
âRisks for oral cancer include HPV infection, excessive or prolonged smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor dental hygiene, which introduce carcinogens to the oral cavity, causing genetic mutations that may lead to the development of cancerous cells.” Dr. Shailendra notes.
Among the South Asian population, betel nut chewing also contributes to oral cancer. Furthermore, the World Health Organisation classifies betel nut or areca as a carcinogenic ingredient and warns of its impact on cancer. “The betel nut’s strong acidic nature, containing arecoline and lime, stays in the mouth for extended periods, causing lesions and alters the mouth’s microbiome and oral mucosa, leading to cancerâ, he adds.Â
Symptoms, Diagnosis, and the Journey to Treatment
Dr. Shailendra advises on recognising oral abnormalities to aid early detection of oral cancer. He shares, âSymptoms like long-lasting ulcers or unusual bleeding in the oral cavity, cheek, or throat can be easy to overlook. It’s often not until the symptoms become impossible to ignore, such as changes in voice, difficulty eating, or noticeable weight loss, that intervention occurs. By then, it might be stage three, a much more difficult situation to treat.”
“If something in your mouth doesn’t feel right and persists for more than a week, it’s essential to get it checked. Early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and recoveryâ, he adds.
Treatment and Impact of Oral CancerÂ
“Diagnosing oral cancer is a detailed process, from biopsy to determining the cancer’s stage, illustrating the disease’s difficulty in early detection,” he continues. Treatment may range from surgery in early stages to a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation in more advanced cases. Despite advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy, accessing these treatments can be challenging.
The impact of treatment often involves significant surgical interventions, potentially affecting the patient’s quality of life. This includes the possibility of disfigurement and difficulties in speaking and swallowing due to the tumour or cancer removal in the tongue, cheek, lip or even tonsil area.Â
Reducing Risk and Importance of Early Detection for Oral CancerÂ
Beyond the medical interventions, Dr Shailendra speaks about the critical role of lifestyle changes and preventive measures, advising, “Abstaining from tobacco and betel quid, maintaining oral hygiene, and regular dental check-ups can considerably lower the riskâ.Â
With an observed increase in oral cancer among young adults, research underscores the effectiveness of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccines in preventing oral cancer, provided they are administered early. âHPV vaccines are an effective protection against oral, head, neck, and cervical cancers. However, they do not work if you already have cancer or are already infected. Therefore, the earlier the vaccine is administered, the better,â he adds.Â
He underscores the importance of early detection and treatment, “If you notice an area in your mouth that has not healed after one week, get it checked. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in treatment outcome and post-treatment quality of life.”
About Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway CityÂ
Sunway Medical Centre is the largest private quaternary hospital in Malaysia with 724 licensed beds and is committed to becoming an international healthcare institution of choice. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of medical services, which include state-of-the-art facilities and advanced medical technologies for outpatient and inpatient speciality care, health and wellness programmes and 24-hour emergency services, which includes the newly opened dedicated Childrenâs Emergency, the first private hospital to offer this service. These are supported by a strong system comprising more than 3,500 dedicated healthcare and hospitality professionals.Â
Recognising the increasingly sophisticated needs in healthcare, SMC has developed niche areas of medical service, from the field of neurosciences to advanced cancer treatment, and from clinical research to bio-medical technology. Some of the core specialty areas include Oncology, Women and Children, Neuroscience, Heart and Lung, Bone and Joint, Robotic Surgery & MIS, and Digestive Health services. Its areas of expertise also include kidney transplant, bone marrow transplant, cochlear implant, and cornea transplant, as well as cell-based and gene-based therapies.                                    Â
Sunway Medical Centre, the flagship hospital of Sunway Healthcare Group (SHG), is well recognised for an accolade of achievements. The hospital is accredited by the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS) and Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH). The hospital has been acknowledged among the top 250 hospitals globally in the esteemed Newsweek World’s Best Hospitals 2024 ranking, and won Frost & Sullivanâs Malaysia Smart Hospital Company of the Year for two years in a row in 2021 and 2022. Sunway Medical Centre is poised to set new standards of service with an exciting growth to over 1,000 hospital beds from its current 724 beds.Â
71% of Gen Z Use Livestreams Like Shopee Live for Informed Purchases
KUALA LUMPUR, 29 April 2024 –Â âThe Future of Shopping: Engaging Generation Z Shoppers in the Digital Eraâ market study by Shopee in collaboration with Kantar found that 86% of Gen Zs tend to seek “shoppertainment” apart from purchasing products, when browsing on e-commerce platforms such as Shopee. Survey respondents crave live connections with like-minded individuals while enjoying informative and entertaining content when shopping online.
In fact, a significant 71% of respondents actively seek out product reviews and demonstrations, turning to livestream features like Shopee Live to make informed purchases. They prioritise detailed product descriptions, search recommendations tailored to their needs, and live reviews from influencers for a seamless shopping experience. Malaysians resonate with Shopee Affiliatesâ authentic content and genuine engagement, seeking their input and personal advice such as product durability, discounts, and preferences for each purchase.
Interestingly, while a majority of respondents seek honest and informative product reviews, 4 in 10 actively seek entertainment throughout their purchase journey. This demographic would likely be drawn to features like discounts and rewards that are exclusive to Shopee Live. They actively participate in livestreams that have Shopee Coins release missions, and seek interesting game shows and exciting giveaways on Shopee Mamak.
Ming Kit Tan, Head of Marketing and Business Intelligence at Shopee Malaysia, said, âOur Shopee Affiliates sit at the forefront of humanising e-commerce. They create engaging and entertaining content specifically tailored to resonate with Gen Zâs preferences. They see the value of live streaming in generating lively consumer engagement through real-time interaction and its ability to convert to immediate sales. Our outstanding affiliates are the voices and trendsetters of their communities. They have the power to spread trust and connection to their audiences beyond the digital walls.â
High performing Shopee Affiliates sharing their thoughts and experiences at the âChampioning Inclusive Commerce 2024â panel forum (L_R Rita Zafran, Syada Azmah, Celeste Phuah, Andrew Tay)
Shopee’s commitment to personalisation extends beyond its platform. A “Championing Inclusive Commerce 2024” study surveying 3,000 affiliates in January 2024 revealed that 90% prioritise humanising e-commerce for users through increased personalisation in posts and livestreams. This aligns perfectly with Malaysian users’ desire for authentic connections, relatable stories, and genuine product education experiences.
Livestream empowers both users and sellers to build trust and connections beyond the digital realm. As Shopee continues to expand its ecosystem to support a thriving e-commerce landscape, Shopee Affiliates play a crucial role in ensuring users are well-informed throughout their shopping journey.
The staggering 420% surge in affiliate-driven orders in 2023 and the influx of over 155,000 new affiliates in 2024 further solidify this trend. Speaking from experience, Celeste Phuah, a top-performing Shopee Affiliate Livestreamer, elaborated, âI believe it is important to share my honest and real opinions with my viewers. Based on their interest and my own experiences. I do try my best to inform them of the various benefits and features of the products after trying them out. This way, I can be sure they’re beneficial for the audience and reasonably priced.â
Discover the Intersection of Technology and Culture at REX KL
KUALA LUMPUR, 30 APRIL 2024 – REXPERIENCE, the leading immersive digital art gallery in Kuala Lumpur, is proudly announcing the introduction of an enhanced version of the groundbreaking “Annihilation” showcase to its current lineup. This addition will be performed alongside the acclaimed “Piying Dream” and “Matter of Painting,” further solidifying REXPERIENCEâs commitment to redefine immersive storytelling and revolutionise the intersection of culture and technology in Malaysia.
“Annihilation” by Colas Fiszman takes audiences on a mesmerising journey that combines dance, video projections, and electronic music to create a multifaceted experience that pushes the boundaries of artistic expression. At its core is modern motion capture technology enabling real-time projection of a dancer’s movements onto the stage. This technology enables performers to interact with elaborate synthetic views created from 3D laser scans of Belgian and Malaysian landscapes, transporting audiences to immersive digital environments.
Adding another layer to the experience is Jonas Margraf’s 360° spatial music, which envelops viewers in a dynamic auditory adventure that complements the visual spectacle on stage. The combination of cutting-edge technology and artistic expression by renowned local performers Chloe Tan, Mohamad Arifwaran, Audrey Chua and Zhafir Muzani, who will each bring their style of dance to “Annihilation” will create unique narratives that explore humanityâs complex relationship with technology and the natural world.
Leveraging technologies like Unreal Engine 5, TouchDesigner, spatial audio systems, and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) sensors, “Annihilation” transforms traditional visual and performance art experiences into dynamic encounters. This innovative showcase is also an epitome of REXPERIENCEâs mission to redefine immersive storytelling and revolutionise the intersection of culture and technology.
Alongside “Annihilation,” guests will visit the fantastical world of “Piying Dream,” an unprecedented digitally animated showcase of Chinese shadow puppetry. Built upon over 3,000 masterfully crafted shadow puppets, “Piying Dream” weaves together iconic design motifs and vibrant colours complemented by an original Chinese musical score, this immersive experience promises to transport visitors to a realm where tradition meets innovation. “Matter of Painting” offers a completely different experience, transforming the walls of the immersive theatre into an all-engrossing canvas where an “invisible digital artist” explores a myriad of colours and textures of painting materials creating a meditative atmosphere that engages the senses and evokes emotional responses.
Recognising the pivotal role of physical space in enhancing digital projections, REXPERIENCE has also undergone a comprehensive upgrade and has transformed its venue into a seamless canvas for storytelling to welcome “Annihilation” and enhance the immersive quality of the ongoing show with:
Uniform Surface for Projection: To ensure that the intricate details of “Annihilation” and “Piying Dream” are projected crisply and clearly, traditional brick walls have been replaced with a uniform surface, enveloping visitors in a vivid narrative landscape.
Resurfaced Flooring: To ensure that every corner of REXPERIENCE is part of the storytelling, the floor has been resurfaced with a uniform matte colour to optimise projection and enhance immersion, inviting visitors to step into a world where art and technology converge in harmony.
Sebastien Jurkowski, CEO and Creative Director of REXPERIENCE, expressed his enthusiasm for the tech-revamp and the addition of “Annihilation” to the show, stating, “These enhancements the space are testament to our commitment toward pushing the boundaries of immersive art. With ‘Annihilation’ joining ‘Piying Dream,’ we invite our visitors to delve deeper into the realms of creativity and innovation. The upgrades ensure that every moment within REXPERIENCE is an integral part of an unforgettable journey through art and technology.”
Visitors are welcome to step into a realm where art defies boundaries and imagination knows no limits with the 1-hour exhibition offering an unparalleled journey through “Annihilation,” “Piying Dream,” and “Matter of Painting.” From April 16th to July 14th, every Tuesday to Friday, 8 PM to 10 PM, and on weekends and public holidays from 2 PM to 10 PM, guests will experience the dynamic presence of “Annihilation” enhanced by instant motion capture technology as dancers will be performing live. Tickets for these live shows are priced at RM80 for adults, RM56 for youths, students, seniors, and OKU, and RM40 for children.
Live Show Details (Until 14th July 2024)
Tuesday to Friday
8 PM to 10 PM
Weekends and Public Holidays
2 PM to 10 PM
AdultsÂ
RM80
Youths, Students, Seniors, OKUÂ
RM56
Children: RM40
RM40
At other times, tickets are priced at RM60 for adults, RM42 for youths, students, seniors, and OKU, and RM30 for children. Don’t miss this chance to transcend the ordinary and embark on an artistic odyssey unlike any other. Secure your tickets now and be part of this extraordinary journey into the heart of immersive art.
Amy Gan, VP of Marketing at Etika, alongside Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, Executive Producer of The Experts and Head of Astro Shaw, and Santharuban Thurai Sundaram, CEO of Etika Group of Companies, with the stellar cast of The Experts themselves at the unveiling "Fizz Operation", Calpis Soda exclusive TV commercial with "The Experts".
Calpis Soda Elevates Movie Magic: The Brandâs Official TV Commercial Blends Taste and Tale Seamlessly.
Kuala Lumpur, 30 April 2024 – Calpis Soda, in collaboration with Astro Shaw, proudly launches the official TV commercial for the upcoming blockbuster heist movie, “The Expertsâ.
Calpis Soda, Malaysia’s #1 carbonated cultured milk drink, presents a refreshing take on
tradition with its innovative twist of carbonation on the cultured milk beverage. Bubbling with happiness, this fat-free delight is infused with Actigest, making it refreshingly good for all consumers. Offering a unique alternative to conventional carbonated soft drink, Calpis Soda tantalises taste buds with its bubbly and milky uniqueness, solidifying its position as the preferred choice for those seeking a refreshing and health-conscious beverage option.
In joining forces with Astro Shaw, Calpis doesn’t just add excitement to the portfolio but also the silver screen; it crafts an immersive brand encounter resonating with the film’s dynamic energy. This partnership signifies Calpis’s strategic move to captivate a broader audience, linking the brand’s essence with the creativity and thrill of movie-goingâa journey that mirrors the effervescence and delight found in every sip of Calpis Soda.
A brand rooted in over a century of heritage, seamlessly intertwines its rich history with
contemporary innovation. This collaboration transcends mere storytelling between this bubbly brand and âThe Expertsâ, echoing the essence of Calpis’ 100-year legacy. The partnership, featuring top talents, serves as the heart of the collaboration, blending product and plot with cinematic finesse. Taking a leaf out of the movieâs theme, the brandâs TV commercial captivates with thrilling scenes as irresistible as the taste of Calpis Sodaâa testament to its refreshing promise. This immersive storytelling not only enhances the partnership but also breathes life into Calpis Soda, infusing it with cinematic flair and celebrating its enduring heritage.
Amy Gan, Vice President of Marketing at Etika, shares the inspiration behind this strategy:
“Calpis not only leads the charge in innovation within its beverage portfolio but also pioneers groundbreaking initiatives in other realms. From seamlessly integrating storytelling into the essence of taste through a TV commercial, this collaboration goes beyond a simple partnership; it represents a harmonious blend of creativity, flavour, and film.â
The partnership between Calpis Soda and Astro Shaw in this TV commercial heralds a unique synergy that challenges traditional advertising norms and creates a lasting impression on viewers.
She further explains, “Aligning with Astro Shaw’s ‘The Experts’ allows us to illustrate our story through a medium that touches hearts and sparks imaginations. Our exclusive TV commercial, ‘Fizz Operation,’ featuring The Experts’ own Dato Aaron Aziz and Ray Dapdap, brings to life their thrilling heist mission to reclaim the Calpis Soda beverage. The TV Commercial scripts a saga of taste intertwined with the exhilaration of âThe Expertsâ. At Calpis Soda, we take pride in pioneering this interactive, immersive, and innovative approach, reinforcing our commitment to delivering immersive experiences for our consumersâ.’
Executive Producer of The Experts and Head of Astro Shaw, Raja Jastina Raja Arshad said, “Astro Shaw is open to collaborating with various parties to improve and strengthen our films. We believe that there are many creative aspects that we can explore through films, by linking the storyline to a commercial version for a product. We also see synergy in bringing two industries together to enhance the promotion of both parties. Through this partnership, we have launched a special advertisement with Calpis Soda. We hope that this collaboration will bring the film to a wider audience and set a new benchmark in producing innovative marketing frameworks.”
With its captivating storyline and dynamic tempo, âThe Expertsâ is poised to premiere on May 23, 2024, reflecting the vibrant energy and zest akin to Calpis Soda, a beloved choice among Malaysians.
Calpis Soda aims to create an immersive experience beyond the screen, inviting audiences into a world filled with Calpis-themed excitement and creativity. To bring the movie’s magic into reality, viewers who watch the TV commercial are in for a delightful surprise! After watching the brand’s commercial, Calpis Soda fans can redeem a complimentary can of Calpis Soda, available via My 7-Eleven app (while stocks last).
Experience the refreshing fusion of tradition and innovation with Calpis Soda todayâavailable at nationwide retailers including 7-Eleven, Shell, MyNews, Petron, Petronas, Caltex, and more!
To watch the trailer or more information about the promotion, please visit the Calpis Soda
Facebook and Instagram pages now.
Monday 29 April 2024 –Â Drawing upon extensive experience and expertise, especially in the realm of nutritionally balanced food products, Nestle Health Science, under the roof of Nestle Thailand, has led the way in developing OPTIFAST, Thailand’s first medical food for weight reduction designed specifically for weight management among those in need, e.g., overweight individuals, those with obesity or abnormalities related to obesity. OPTIFAST serves as a meal replacement option, seamlessly complementing lifestyle modification; for example, limiting energy intake, encouraging nutritional food consumption, and adjusting exercise routines for weight loss.
“Nestle remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering ‘Good for You’ products that enrich lives today and tomorrow. Nestle Health Science, building on this strategy, harnesses its expertise in nutrition to pioneer nutritionally balanced products. With the unveiling of OPTIFAST, Thailand’s first medical food for weight reduction, which has already been registered as a medical food. OPTIFAST is a globally recognized product that offers an approach for Thai consumers who need to lose weight, delivering diverse nutrition with a delicious taste that can be enjoyed daily.” Ms. Anusara Khomvilai, Business Manager, Nestle Health Science said.
OPTIFAST is a medical food for weight reduction, offering a diverse and suitable range of nutrients. Each sachet delivers 215 kilocalories, featuring a protein content of 20 grams. Protein is crucial for muscle maintenance and support. There are also 18.8 grams of carbohydrates and minimal fructose sugar of less than 0.5 grams, along with three types of dietary fiber. Fiber promotes digestive health and regular bowel movements. Furthermore, with the inclusion of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), as well as a variety of vitamins and minerals, it contributes to ensuring diverse nutrition during periods of calorie restriction and can be consumed as a meal replacement.
Colonel Sirakarn Tejavanija, M.D., Physician Nutrition Specialist Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, underscores the importance and correct methods of weight loss, stating: “Currently, there are numerous weight loss methods promising short-term results. However, without guidance from a physician or a dietitian, they may have detrimental long-term effects on the body. For example, adhering to a ketogenic diet that emphasizes high-fat intake may lead to excessive consumption of fats from various animal meats, butter, and coconut milk, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease and related conditions. Similarly, strict calorie restriction diets can result in inadequate nutrient intake, particularly protein, causing significant loss of both fat and muscle mass in the body. Despite initial rapid weight loss, such diets can slow down the body’s metabolism, leading to swift weight regain once regular eating habits resume, perpetuating a frustrating cycle.
In the field of medicine, the key to achieving effective and safe weight loss lies in a core principle: reducing calorie intake to prompt the body to utilize stored fat for energy. However, it’s imperative to ensure adequate intake of high-quality protein to preserve muscle mass, essential for maintaining metabolic efficiency and sustainable weight management. Additionally, incorporating heart-healthy fats and ensuring sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals are essential components. These strategies ensure optimal nutrition during calorie restriction, fostering a safe and successful weight loss journey with tangible results.”
OPTIFAST, a medical food for weight reduction, offers an alternative for individuals in need of weight loss according to medical advice. Utilized alongside exercise behavior adjustments, it is administered under the guidance of healthcare professionals. Now readily available and purchasable through hospital outlets, Health Up Pharmacy and Nestle Health Science Official Stores on various platforms, including Lazada and Shopee.
Those interested can seek information and consult with OPTIFAST through multiple channels, including:
Tel: 1162 Ext. 8, Monday – Friday 9.00 – 18.00 hr. or 02-657-8601.
Line: @nestle.health
Facebook: Nestle Health Science
Kaspersky reports on cybercriminal activity on the Darknet market in the region
27 September 2022
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Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand), the distributor of Pepsi-Cola in Thailand, has recently launched Boss Cafe on the ground floor of Siam Centre, reported Bangkok...
