Saturday, August 23, 2025
Home Blog Page 27

The new City Square Mall fosters community spirit through a record-setting initiative

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

To celebrate its recent refresh, the family-friendly eco-mall brought together seniors, preschoolers, and residents from the surrounding community to create a record-breaking origami sculpture that anchors the mall’s community space

30 JUNE, 2025 — After almost 2 years of renovation works, the new City Square Mall is now in full bloom with refreshed interiors, an upgraded tenant mix, and a strengthened commitment to supporting and engaging the community. To celebrate the soft launch of the mall, City Square Mall invited members of the community to take part in a vibrant initiative that brought together students, seniors, and residents.

Through the month of June, the mall partnered with numerous community organisations and residents to fold 1,788 origami flowers to fill a large sculpture that spells out “CSM” in the mall’s atrium. This collective effort earned the mall a new record for the “Largest Acrylic Sculpture Filled With Origami Flowers” in the Singapore Book Of Records. Additionally, City Square Mall has plans in the pipeline to utilise the sculpture for similar initiatives.

Children from MindSpace Learning Hub folding the origami flowers

Building on the spirit of community, the record was made possible by the multigenerational support of the mall’s surrounding community, including seniors from the nearby Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital, children from MindSpace (#09-09), MindChamps PreSchool (#07-01), Blessed Kidz Learning Hub (#07-06), and nearby residents. This joint community effort reflects the mall’s ongoing efforts to provide not just a refreshed space to shop and dine, but to also serve as a community hub for meaningful interactions and collaborations.

Among the highlights of the initiative was a heartwarming gathering on 17 June, where 17 seniors from Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital’s Community Care Centre at McNair were invited for a special day out at the mall. They spent the morning with volunteers folding origami flowers and socialising, before enjoying a meal together, hosted by Food Republic (#B3-04).

In addition to creating meaningful experiences for the seniors, this initiative also seeks to tap on their skills so that they feel empowered to give back to the community. By recognising and valuing their contributions, this initiative fosters a greater sense of purpose and belonging among the elderly. This reflects the spirit of SG60, which celebrates intergenerational strength and unity, to build a more inclusive society.

“We are pleased to collaborate with City Square Mall on this meaningful initiative that celebrates creativity, connection, and community spirit. It offers our seniors a special platform to showcase their talents and engage with the public in an uplifting and purposeful way. This partnership aligns with Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital’s commitment to active ageing and meaningful social participation in the community. We welcome more of such collaborations that promote intergenerational understanding and inclusivity,” said Mr Eh Li Qi, Head of Corporate & Community Relations of Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital.

This community initiative involved seniors between the ages of 66 to 85. “I decided to take part in this origami activity because it has been my hobby ever since I picked it up during the COVID-19 lockdown. I enjoyed my day out at City Square Mall and I visit the Active Ageing Centre at McNair almost daily. Today’s session was a refreshing change and I am glad that I made new friends and felt a warm sense of community. If there are future activities like this, I would love to come again, as long as there is someone accompanying me due to my leg condition,” said Mdm Jessie Tang Foong Wan, 85.

The “CSM” sculpture that is filled with 1,788 origami flowers

From 24 to 28 June, City Square Mall invited its community on social media to join the celebration through a fun giveaway. Participants took a chance to guess how many origami flowers made up the vibrant community sculpture. The five closest entries — which will be revealed later today — will each take home $50 in F&B vouchers, a recyclable bag, and an umbrella from MindSpace. Be sure to follow City Square Mall on Instagram for the big reveal, and for more engaging contests!

City Square Mall as a Third Space

This initiative is in line with City Square Mall’s goal of establishing itself as an engaging third space for the community it serves. Going beyond simple transactions, it seeks to be a place where visitors can gather beyond the boundaries of home and work, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

Community spaces within the mall such as the Level 4 Gastro Square and Level 5 Discovery Square were also introduced to support the mall’s vision of becoming a third place. The Gastro Square is a vibrant 24,000 sq ft hub featuring diverse dining options and also serves as a community space where live performances by singers from MusicDreamer! Live Cafe  (爱琴海民歌餐厅) and workshops are held to foster engagement and deepen community connections.

The Discovery Square complements this by providing an interactive space where visitors of all ages can engage in creative expression by swiping, drawing, or leaving encouraging messages on the eye-catching sequin wall. It also acts as the perfect backdrop for families to capture photos together.

To bring a touch of the Discovery Square to other parts of the mall, a smaller sequin wall has been placed at B2, right outside Hi Hot Pot (#B2-01). It invites shoppers to take a playful pause in their day, whether to doodle, leave a kind message, or simply to snap a photo —  reinforcing the mall’s ethos of creating spaces and opportunities for interaction and connection.

City Square Mall’s Holistic Approach Towards Community Care

Since its inception in 2009, City Square Mall has been a strong purveyor of community initiatives, consistently launching initiatives that go beyond retail to support the wider community they serve.

Beyond the community origami initiative, the mall is also running an ongoing book donation drive, where shoppers are encouraged to drop off their pre-loved children’s storybooks at the Customer Service Counter located at Basement 2. These pre-loved books will then be donated to the Jalan Besar Community Club Library Corner for children in the neighbourhood to freely enjoy.

In December last year, City Square Mall and its brands hosted a community-centred event as part of the mall’s Christmas celebration, which was graced by Denise Phua, Mayor, Central Singapore District and MP, Jalan Besar GRC. More than $1,300 worth of presents from participating brands, comprising ‘back-to-school supplies’ and toys, were gifted to 30 underprivileged children from the Kampong Glam district.

Currently, the mall continues to evolve as a dynamic, family-friendly hub, rooted in community spirit and serving its patrons as a third space, where visitors can connect and gather beyond traditional retail activities. Looking ahead, the mall is planning to host educational tours for schools, teaching students on environmental sustainability and eco-friendly practices, strengthening its positioning as Singapore’s first eco-mall.

CP Foods CEO Named Asia’s Best and Thailand’s Top CEO 2025, Honored for Visionary Leadership and Sustainability Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) continues to gain regional and national recognition for its commitment

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) continues to gain regional and national recognition for its commitment to sustainable business practices, innovation, and stakeholder engagement. The company’s focus on “Sustainovation”—the integration of sustainability and innovation—has driven strong business performance while promoting global food security and long-term value creation.

Prasit Boondoungprasert, Chief Executive Officer of CP Foods, was honored with two prestigious leadership awards: Asia’s Best CEO from Corporate Governance Asia at the 15th Asian Excellence Awards 2025 in Hong Kong, and Thailand Top CEO of the Year 2025 in the Agriculture and Agribusiness category from Business+ magazine in collaboration with the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, Thammasat University.

“These awards reflect the collective efforts of our teams across the organization,” said  Prasit. “As a leading global food company, CP Foods has a responsibility to continually innovate and deliver the best for our customers. The innovation comes from teamwork—by working together, we can create better products and solutions for a sustainable future.”

In addition, CP Foods received multiple honors at the Asian Excellence Awards 2025, including:

  • Best Investor Relations Company in Asia, recognizing CP Foods’ transparency and fairness in information disclosure.
  • Sustainable Asia Award 2025, acknowledging the company’s efforts in community development, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • Asia’s Best CFO awarded to Paisan Chirakitcharern, Chief Financial Officer, for his achievements in financial strategy and business planning.
  • Best Investor Relations Professional in Asia awarded to Kobboon Srichai, Head of Corporate Affairs & Investor Relations, for excellence in transparent communication and corporate governance.

These recognitions underscore CP Foods’ leadership in sustainable agribusiness and its continued role in strengthening Thailand’s economy while fulfilling its vision to be the Kitchen of the World.

 

Nestlé KitKat launches Pineapple Flavour in the Philippines and KitKat Pink in Thailand

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Nestlé Philippines Inc. has unveiled its latest treat, KitKat Pineapple, bringing a burst of sweet and tangy flavour to the classic break-time snack. This new variant features a unique marbling effect, echoing the KitKat Pineapple Tart Flavour that debuted in markets such as Malaysia and Singapore during Chinese New Year 2025.

KitKat Pineapple in the Philippines is not tied to any cultural or festive occasion. Instead, it is introduced as a fun, everyday indulgence meant to be enjoyed any time.

Nestlé (Thai) Ltd has introduced KitKat Pink Strawberry Wafer Fingers in Thailand, aiming to spread cheerful vibes with this vibrant new addition to its lineup.

The Ocean Cleanup, Landasan Lumayan Sdn Bhd, J&K Wonderland Foundation and Coca-Cola Malaysia Launch Waste Sorting Facility on Klang River

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Officiated by the Mayor of Klang, the facility marks a milestone in reducing river pollution and boosting recycling efforts in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – 2 JULY 2025 – The Ocean Cleanup, together with its partners Landasan Lumayan Sdn Bhd (LLSB), J&K Wonderland Foundation, and Coca-Cola Malaysia, officially unveiled a new waste sorting facility on the Klang River today, marking a milestone in efforts to help divert collected marine waste from landfill and promote circular solutions.

The waste sorting facility was officiated by YBhg. Dato’ Haji Abd. Hamid Hussain, Mayor of Klang Royal City Council (MBDK), and witnessed by YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), in recognition of its contribution to strengthening local waste management and environmental sustainability efforts.

The facility will sort and process waste collected by The Ocean Cleanup’s technology, including Interceptor 002, which operates using solar power, and a log boom (barrier) system. These systems are designed to intercept debris in the river before it reaches the ocean.

With financial support from Coca-Cola Malaysia and J&K Wonderland Foundation, as well as implementation leadership from LLSB, the facility aims to maximise recycling outcomes and create local livelihood opportunities. A team of full-time workers is stationed at the site to sort waste by hand – separating recyclables such as plastic and aluminium from organic and non-recyclable waste. This sorting process aims to contribute to more sustainable and efficient waste management practices.

This public-private collaboration brings together local government agencies, private sector leaders, and the non-profit organisation The Ocean Cleanup, and is a key part of the broader Klang River cleanup programme.

Speaking at the opening event, Marco Piët, Rivers Director at The Ocean Cleanup, said: “Working in collaboration with our partners, this new waste sorting facility will help improve the waste management of the trash we are preventing from entering the ocean as we continue in our mission to eliminate 90 percent of floating ocean plastic pollution.”

He also shared plans to increase the number of Interceptors in Kuala Lumpur, and highlighted the organisation’s 30 Cities Program – an initiative to scale The Ocean Cleanup’s proven Interceptor solutions across 30 key cities in Asia and the Americas, with the goal of eliminating up to one-third of all plastic flowing from the world’s rivers into the ocean by the end of the decade.

Syaiful Azmen Nordin, Managing Director at Landasan Lumayan Sdn Bhd, remarked: “The health of the Klang River is a shared responsibility – critical to our local communities and the environment. This sorting facility demonstrates what’s possible when multiple stakeholders come together with a common goal. Landasan Lumayan Sdn Bhd remains committed to the river’s rejuvenation, and this joint initiative is an important boost to our broader waste management efforts.”

Amanda Lin, Senior Director – Franchise Operations, The Coca-Cola Company – Singapore, Malaysia & Brunei, said: “This work on the Klang River is part of our broader partnership with The Ocean Cleanup in Southeast Asia to help prevent plastic waste from flowing into the ocean. We’re also supporting deployments in Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia – with our teams on the ground helping The Ocean Cleanup scale their solutions.”

To date, The Ocean Cleanup’s Interceptors 002 and 005 have collectively removed nearly 3,000 tonnes of waste from the Klang River as it flows through Kuala Lumpur’s industrial zones. This facility strengthens the impact of the larger cleanup programme, which aims to reduce plastic pollution and restore ecological balance to one of Malaysia’s most vital rivers.

Wake up to feel-good mornings with limited edition Selamat Pagi Nutella jars

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
Wake up to feel-good mornings with limited edition Selamat Pagi Nutella jars

Nutella brings back the joy of mornings with limited edition Selamat Pagi Nutella jars, Malaysian-inspired breakfast recipes, and exclusive partnerships with Grumpy Bagels

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a world where mornings are often rushed, filled with traffic jams, and repetitive routines, Nutella invites Malaysians to slow down, rediscover the joy of breakfast, and start the day with positivity with three limited edition 680g Selamat Pagi Nutella jars, four local-inspired recipes, and a limited-time breakfast collaboration with Grumpy Bagels.

Malaysia is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes from misty highlands and serene lakes to golden beaches. Its diverse breakfast traditions, such as nasi lemak and roti canai, reflect the country’s rich, multi-ethnic culture. Inspired by this, Nutella has introduced a series of limited-edition jars featuring sunrise landscapes from three iconic locations including Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Taman Tasik Titiwangsa in Kuala Lumpur, and Pulau Perhentian in Terengganu available nationwide from 1 July onwards. Each jar is also embedded with a QR code linking to a local-inspired breakfast recipe perfect for all skill levels, from complete cooking novice to seasoned home cooks. These recipes include the Roti Canai French Toast, Nutella Roti Canai Fruit Wrap, and Roti Celup Telur with Nutella. As part of the campaign, Nutella has also teamed up with renowned Southeast Asian award-winning chef, Reynold Poernomo to create a bespoke Baked Roti Canai with Nutella recipe – a delightful fusion of Malaysian food culture and the joyful, unmistakable taste of Nutella’s signature hazelnut and cocoa spread.

Diane Gan, Head of Cluster Brand Marketing Nutella, Southeast Asia said, “For many Malaysians, mornings often revolve around routines that feel rushed and repetitive. This is especially true for mothers who juggle between structuring their children’s daily routines to preparing them for school, all while making sure everyone has a vibrant start to the day. We understand that even deciding what to make for breakfast can become a daily stress. With the Selamat Pagi Nutella campaign, Nutella hopes to ease that pressure by introducing simple, local-inspired breakfast recipes that add excitement and warmth to breakfast tables. Whether it’s a fun take on roti canai or just a simple slice of toast with Nutella, we want to help families rediscover the joy of breakfast and turn simple mornings into memorable moments. Because when mornings start with positivity, it sets the tone for the rest of the day.”

To elevate mornings even further, Nutella has partnered with Grumpy Bagels to introduce the Yuzu Cream Cheese Bagel with Nutella, adding a bold yet refreshing twist to the café’s menu from 1 to 14 July. During this period, customers who purchase the bagel and spend a minimum of RM100 in the café will also stand a chance to spin the wheel and win exclusive rewards – making their Selamat Pagi Nutella experience even more uplifting. These rewards include limited-edition Nutella x Grumpy Bagel Tote Bags, Nutella x Grumpy Bagel T-shirts, Nutella x Grumpy Bagel gift sets, Nutella B-Ready, and Nutella Biscuits.

Throughout this campaign, Nutella invites Malaysians to brighten their days whether by trying fun recipes on breakfast favourites or finding joy in quiet moments with people who matter the most and share their positivity by tagging Nutella on Facebook or Instagram. Those within the Klang Valley can also visit Grumpy Bagels to turn their grumps into grins with the limited-edition Yuzu Cream Cheese Bagel with Nutella. Limited-edition Selamat Pagi Nutella jars featuring iconic Malaysian sunrise landscapes will be available in 680g at leading stores nationwide starting July 2025. To learn more about the Selamat Pagi Nutella campaign, please visit www.nutella.com/my/.

Introducing the All-New Cream-O Strawberry! Berry ONZ in Every Bite!

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Kuala Lumpur, 1 July 2025 — Malaysia’s snacking scene just got a delicious upgrade! Cream-O, your favourite choco expert and mood booster, is turning up the fun with its latest creation, the all-new Cream-O Strawberry. This bold, playful twist on the classic chocolate biscuit brings together the irresistible crunch of rich chocolate cookies and the smooth sweetness of real strawberry cream. This is no ordinary snack. Cream-O Strawberry is a celebration in every bite, a joyful indulgence that’s here to shake up your daily routine and get everyone screaming Berry ONZ!

Cream-O Strawberry is made for moments that matter, whether it is a late-night study session, a binge-worthy movie marathon, or a fun TikTok challenge with friends, Cream-O Strawberry is there for you! Every bite delivers a delightful contrast of rich and fruity flavours, thanks to the real strawberries in the cream and the deep cocoa crunch of the biscuit. It’s a multi-sensory snack experience that sparks happiness and makes ordinary moments extraordinary.

Cream-O wants you to go ahead, take a bite, feel the joy, and share the love. Try Cream-O Strawberry today and let your berry-sweet adventure begin! Available now in three convenient pack sizes: 64g (RM1.60), 104g (RM2.60), and 120g (RM2.90). Perfect for everyday treats, on-the-go munching, or spreading joy with those around you, Cream-O Strawberry is available at major supermarkets and convenience stores nationwide. It’s never been easier to get your Berry ONZ moment anytime, anywhere.

For more information, visit Munchy’s official website (http://www.munchys.com/) or follow Munchy’s on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/munchys.my/) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Munchys/) for the latest updates.

SIROM, HEINEKEN Malaysia & Sokong Unite to Enhance Community Resilience

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
Group photo with the Orang Asli community members in Bentong together with the representatives from SIROM, HEINEKEN Malaysia, and SOKONG during the Sustainability Day on 14 June

Communities empowered on the management of aquaponics and composting techniques

Kuala Lumpur, 30 June 2025 — In conjunction with United Nations (UN) Environment Day, Soroptimist International Region of Malaysia (SIROM), Heineken Malaysia Berhad (HEINEKEN Malaysia), and Sokong by Yayasan Malaysiakini, proudly presented Sustainability Day 2025—a community-powered initiative aimed at promoting eco-friendly practices and building more sustainable food systems.

Held at GCC Farm in Bentong on 14 June 2025, the event highlighted two practical and impactful approaches to sustainability: aquaponics farming and organic composting. These methods provide scalable solutions that empower communities to actively contribute to food security, environmental preservation, and climate resilience.

Participants engaged in hands-on workshops, educational demonstrations, and community dialogues, making it a meaningful day of learning, collaboration, and action. This effort reflects the spirit of the 2025 UN Environment Day theme:

“Our Land. Our Future. We Are #GenerationRestoration.”

Representative from HEINEKEN Malaysia and Sokong helping Orang Asli communities

“Sustainability Day is about more than awareness—it’s about action,” said Rebecca Lai, President of SIROM. “Aquaponics and composting provide scalable, low-carbon impact solutions to food waste, water conservation, and urban farming challenges. These practices demonstrate how communities can take charge of their own sustainability.”

Aquaponics, a method that integrates aquaculture and hydroponics, uses up to 90% less water than conventional farming and supports chemical-free, year-round food production. Meanwhile, organic composting transforms kitchen and garden waste into nutrient-rich soil, reducing landfill use while enhancing soil health and biodiversity.

Aquaponic system in GCC Farm, Bentong

These practices directly support Malaysia’s sustainability agenda and align with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—notably Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Climate Action (SDG 13).

“At HEINEKEN Malaysia, we believe true progress begins at the grassroots. Our partnership with Soroptimist International began in 2017 and has been a testament to the power of community-driven change, where food security, sustainability, and women’s empowerment come together to build resilient futures. Together, we’re not just growing crops, we’re cultivating opportunity and long-term impact,” said Renuka Indrarajah, Corporate Affairs & Legal Director of HEINEKEN Malaysia.

The event embodies a shared dedication to inclusive, community-led climate action. As part of its Brew a Better World sustainability strategy, HEINEKEN Malaysia continues to invest in environmental sustainability and community empowerment.

Puteri Afiqah Mazelan, Community & Marketing Manager of Sokong by Yayasan Malaysiakini, added: “At Sokong, we’re proud to connect changemakers and grassroots organisations who are doing the real work on the ground. Sustainability Day is a great example of how collective action—supported by strong partnerships—can spark long-term change.”

As a digital fundraising and impact platform, Sokong is committed to amplifying causes that matter—whether through community engagement, public awareness, or funding for environmental and social initiatives.

SIROM, a national body under Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific, continues to lead efforts in empowering women and uplifting communities through sustainable development and environmental education.

Sustainability Day 2025 is more than just a celebration of green practices—it is a reminder of what’s possible when communities, corporations, and civil society come together.

Hand in hand, HEINEKEN Malaysia, Sokong, and SIROM are planting the seeds of lasting change—one household, one garden, one community at a time.

 

YEONJUN of TOMORROW X TOGETHER is Somersby Asia’s New ‘No-Nonsense’ Ambassador

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

K-Pop fans in Malaysia are in for a treat as apple-loving K-Pop idol YEONJUN is the new face of Somersby

SHAH ALAM, 1 JULY 2025 – Global K-Pop sensation YEONJUN of TOMORROW X TOGETHER has been unveiled as the new face of Somersby across Asia. The 4th generation K-Pop ‘it-boy’ brings his signature authenticity to Somersby’s new ‘No-Nonsense’ campaign – a bold new stance that speaks directly to a generation seeking straightforward enjoyment over pretence.

At Somersby, the belief is simple— ‘adulting’ is full of nonsense, overflowing with pressure and complication. It may be difficult to forget the over-the-top chaos of the everyday, but Somersby’s here to prove that it gets a little better with a side of chilled, fruity refreshment that hits different every time. That’s what the ‘No-Nonsense’ platform is all about, just easy-going moments, crisp apple refreshment, and a splash of carefree fun. Whether it’s winding down after work, catching up on the weekend, or simply escaping the everyday—Somersby’s here to remind you life doesn’t always have to be so serious.

Bringing this spirit to life is YEONJUN, known for his cheeky humour, confident individuality, and yes, his love of apples. From swiping away ad clichés to keeping true to himself, he owns an energy that fits right in with what Somersby’s all about: fun, no jargon, no pretending, and freedom from the fluff.

“As one of the world’s most popular fruit-flavoured alcoholic beverages, Somersby continues to grow its relevance in Malaysia by tapping into authentic cultural voices and moments that matter,” said Olga Pulyaeva, Marketing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia. “YEONJUN isn’t just a familiar face, he represents the generation that values authenticity, individuality, and playfulness. This isn’t your typical celebrity endorsement. We’re building something long-lasting, creating genuine connections with fans who crave fresh, meaningful experiences that go beyond just great taste.”

The campaign kicks off with a fresh new film in which the K-Pop star tosses aside the usual ad tropes and does things the YEONJUN way, putting a refreshing ‘No-Nonsense’ twist on the nonsense we all go through. It’s YEONJUN doing what he does best: being himself with a sense of humour and keeping it real, just like Somersby. Watch YEONJUN in Somersby’s latest campaign film here.

Ready for some real fun? Somersby is bringing its ‘No-Nonsense, Just Great Taste’ vibes to Pavilion Kuala Lumpur from 1 July to 6 July 2025. Come celebrate unfiltered moments and share your own experiences of ‘adulting’ nonsense to grab a complimentary can of Somersby 0.0.

That’s not all! Somersby isn’t about to leave K-Pop fans hanging, with exclusive Somersby with TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s YEONJUN postcards up for grabs while stocks last from 1 till 31 July 2025. Available in four distinct designs, you can take home these iconic postcards by purchasing any 8 bottles or cans of any Somersby products in a single receipt.

For the latest Somersby promotions and activities, follow @SomersbyMY on Facebook www.facebook.com/SomersbyMy and Instagram www.instagram.com/somersbymy. Learn about Somersby and its refreshing range of ciders at www.somersby.com/my/. All activities are open to non- Muslims aged 21 and above.

At Carlsberg Malaysia, we advocate responsible consumption, always remember if you drink, don’t drive – #CELEBRATERESPONSIBLY.

McCann ME Republic Backs Blood Brothers: Bara Naga, Signaling Strategic Leap into Entertainment-led Brand Storytelling

By
Tan Heng Hong
-
ME Republic, the entertainment and content production affiliate of McCann KL, proudly announces its role as a strategic production partner on the Malaysian blockbuster Blood Brothers

KUALA LUMPUR, 23 JUNE 2025 – ME Republic, the entertainment and content production affiliate of McCann KL, proudly announces its role as a strategic production partner on the Malaysian blockbuster Blood Brothers: Bara Naga. The film, which has surpassed RM76 million at the local box office, stands as one of the highest-grossing Malay-language films of all time—a cultural phenomenon that underscores the rising potential of homegrown entertainment IPs.

The move marks a pivotal moment for the McCann KL group as it ventures beyond traditional advertising into the realm of narrative-driven brand building. Guided by McCann’s global philosophy of “Truth Well Told,” the agency is shaping a new model for how brands participate meaningfully in culture—through storytelling, not just placements.

Sean Sim, CEO of McCann KL, drives brand storytelling through film.

“Blood Brothers isn’t just a film; it’s a signal of where audiences are heading and where brands need to be,” said Sean Sim, CEO of McCann KL. “As partners in its production journey, we immersed ourselves in the creative process to understand how great storytelling can capture hearts. This understanding will help brands tap into the story narrative in ways that are natural and resonant.”

McCann previously served as the full production partner of the original action-comedy film Housekeeping, which premiered on Amazon Prime Video last year.

This is not McCann’s first foray into entertainment. Via ME Republic, the agency group previously supported the Malaysian release of The Crow (2024), a global title featuring international stars and served as the full production partner of the original action-comedy film Housekeeping, which premiered on Amazon Prime Video last year.

“With partners like ME Republic, we see growing opportunity for meaningful collaboration between creative producers and strategic marketers,” said Nur Shamin Md Yusof, CEO of Skop Productions. “They understand the value of storytelling and the long-term potential of building cultural IP. That kind of support strengthens the industry and opens new doors for how we bring Malaysian films to wider audiences.”

The McCann KL agency group is currently expanding its entertainment with a focus on developing original IPs with strong local relevance and co-creating entertainment-driven campaigns in partnership with brands. As Malaysia’s entertainment sector continues to flourish, the agency is inviting progressive brands to collaborate on the next generation of storytelling-led marketing initiatives backed by insight, shaped by creativity, and built for meaningful audience engagement.

About ME Republic

ME Republic is the entertainment and content production affiliate of McCann KL, specializing in strategic IP development, cultural storytelling, and brand integration within entertainment formats. It is driven by the belief that the next generation of brand value will be built inside the stories audiences love.

MOTAC Secretary-General Dato’ Shaharuddin Visits Kitchen Arena, Emphasizes Public-Private Collaboration to Drive Visit Malaysia Year 2026

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Kuala Lumpur, June 30 – The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), YBhg. Dato’ Shaharuddin bin Abu Sohot emphasized proactive involvement from the private sector is a vital force in establishing Malaysia as a key tourism destination in the region.

He recently led a delegation to visit Kitchen Arena (Ping Edge Sdn Bhd), located in the Balakong Industrial Area. The visit aimed to explore ways to strengthen the development of the food and hospitality industries in support of the national goals for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026).

Dato’ Shaharuddin stated that VM2026 represents a valuable opportunity for Malaysia to showcase its rich cultural heritage, diverse culinary offerings, and unique lifestyle to the world.

“Proactive involvement from the private sector is a vital force in establishing our country as a key tourism destination in the region. If the public and private sectors can build a strong and complementary partnership, I believe we can collectively make VM2026 a national success,”said Dato’ Shaharuddin.

During the visit, Kitchen Arena presented a formal proposal to organize the Malaysia’s International Trade Fair For Food Technology and Hospitality in 2026. The exhibition is expected to highlight the latest food service technologies, smart kitchen solutions, hotel equipment, and food packaging machinery. It will also feature culinary demonstrations, business matchmaking sessions, and thematic forums, aiming to attract both local and international buyers, investors, and industry experts to create a major regional trade event.

Among those present during the visit were Chairman of the Malaysian Association of Wives and Women Members of the Public Service (PUSPANITA) MOTAC Branch YBhg. Datin Yuzaira Yusof; Director-General of the National Heritage Department; Mr. Mohd Muda Bin Bahadin, Director of the Intangible Heritage Division, Dr Eyo Leng Yan; representatives from the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) and Tourism Malaysia; Kitchen Arena CEO Mr. Choong Wai Hon and Operations Director Amazon Kitchen Sdn Bhd, Ms Mah Siew Peng and others.

Dato’ Shaharuddin further stressed that MOTAC remains open to supporting initiatives with strong potential and feasibility, and is ready to do so through agencies such as MyCEB. The aim is to position Malaysia as a preferred destination for international meetings, exhibitions (MICE), and culinary tourism.

He also encouraged Kitchen Arena to integrate elements of local culture and cuisine into its technological solutions and projects, noting that the fusion of innovation with cultural heritage is a strategic advantage for enhancing Malaysia’s global tourism image.

Mr. Soh Yeow Seng, Managing Director of Kitchen Arena, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting national tourism efforts through tangible actions such as hosting major trade exhibitions. He shared his hope that these efforts will help attract more international visitors and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for culinary tourism.

He added that Kitchen Arena is dedicated to being a leader in commercial kitchen solutions and food technology innovation. Its flagship exhibition, Taste & Trade 360 (TT360), is designed to bring together key players from the F&B, hospitality, and tourism sectors on a high-impact platform to promote industry integration, technological advancement, and collaborative innovation.

“With MOTAC’s guidance and support, we hope Kitchen Arena can establish a long-term strategic partnership with MOTAC and MyCEB to achieve key goals,including securing official endorsement and support from MOTAC for the TT360 expo to elevate its national standing and credibility, as well as forming a bilateral collaboration mechanism with MyCEB so that TT360 may eventually be recognized as one of MyCEB’s officially recommended international business events,” said Mr. Soh.

1...262728...1,101Page 27 of 1,101

HOT NEWS

Nissin x Irvins Salted Egg Instant Noodle in pack now available...

Tan Heng Hong - 0
The Nissin x Irvins Salted Egg Instant Noodle in pack is now available in Malaysia. Now you don't need to travel to Singapore to...

MUST READ

All

Century Pacific makes waves in plant-based seafood alternatives with unMEAT Fish-Free...

Tan Heng Hong - 0
Century Pacific Food, Inc. (PSE:CNPF), one of the largest food and beverage companies in the Philippines, released its latest innovation in plant-based alternatives, unMEAT...

Red Carpet 2 Wax Museum Pays Tribute to Sultan of Selangor’s...

Diamond Grains launches new prebiotic granola

Calpis Lacto releases new yuzu flavour

Covering food and drinks opportunities in Southeast Asia with daily news and updates
Contact us: info@minimeinsights.com

EVEN MORE NEWS

POPULAR CATEGORY

© Mini Me Insights 2013-2018