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Taobao Malaysia Shares Raya Shopping Trends as Malaysians Prepare for Festive Gatherings

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Kuala Lumpur, 16 March 2026 – As Malaysians prepare for Hari Raya, new insights from Taobao Malaysia points to a clear shift in festive shopping behaviour, with online platforms playing an increasingly central role in home preparation and hosting.

In the weeks leading up to the Raya celebrations, searches for home organisation and hosting essentials on Taobao Malaysia increased by 70%, reflecting households’ efforts to streamline meal preparation, organise spaces for visiting relatives, and create welcoming environments for open houses. This momentum extended offline, with over twenty thousand visitors attending Taobao Pesta Raya, a three-day experiential activation at MyTOWN Shopping Centre, Kuala Lumpur, clearly demonstrating rising consumer engagement with both the platform and its app.

Taobao Malaysia also points to a broader recalibration in festive spending, as Malaysian consumers increasingly favour home solutions that extend beyond seasonal use. High-interest categories such as food storage organisers, kitchen organisers, lighting solutions, and flexible furniture, reflects a shift toward more adaptable, multi-functional living spaces. This reflects a mindset shaped by a heightened desire for smarter, longer-term value, where versatility, durability and everyday utility take precedence over purely seasonal appeal. 

Jess Lew, Country Head of Taobao Malaysia, said the observation reflects how Malaysians are increasingly turning to e-commerce platforms not only for convenience, but also for inspiration when preparing their homes for festive occasions.

She continues, “Festive preparations often involve many small but meaningful details, from organising kitchens for cooking to creating comfortable spaces for guests during open houses. What we’re seeing on Taobao is that Malaysians are actively searching for practical solutions that help make these moments easier and more enjoyable. As more shoppers explore online platforms for festive preparations, it also highlights how e-commerce is becoming an integral part of everyday celebrations.”

The Taobao Pesta Raya activation offered a glimpse into where retail is heading; towards experiences that seamlessly connect digital discovery with physical engagement. Reflecting Taobao’s signature “everything and anything”, the event features an extensive variety of products, from home essentials to unique lifestyle finds, showcasing the platform’s vast selection. Through interactive product showcases and tools like image search and QR-enabled journeys, visitors experienced an increasingly fluid path to purchase. The event also encouraged first-time app downloads, highlighting how festive periods like Hari Raya serve not only as peak shopping moments but also as opportunities to observe how Malaysians are increasingly integrating e-commerce into daily life and traditional celebrations.

At the same time, Taobao Malaysia’s Raya sales campaign continues until 20 March 2026, providing shoppers with additional opportunities to explore curated festive home solutions and gain inspiration for their celebrations.

For full details on Taobao Pesta Raya campaign and updates, follow Taobao Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit the app.

HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro Officially Launches Alongside ‘See, Truly Malaysia’ Campaign And The XMAGE Awards 2026

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Huawei’s latest Mate flagship returns with powerful imaging capabilities, intelligent performance and arefined premium design together with the FreeBuds Pro 5, Ultimate 2 and FreeClip 2 new colours

KUALA LUMPUR, 12 MARCH 2026 – HUAWEI Malaysia today unveiled the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, the brand’s latest flagship smartphone that pushes the boundaries of mobile imaging, durability and intelligent performance. As Huawei’s most advanced product to date, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro showcases the brand’s continued pursuit of innovation, combining next-generation camera technology with refined design and powerful system capabilities, while bringing its “See it True” promise to life through imaging that captures every detail with remarkable authenticity.

Accompanying the launch are several additions to Huawei’s ecosystem lineup, including the HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5, HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 in Green, and the HUAWEI FreeClip 2 Rose Gold, further expanding Huawei’s portfolio of smart devices that seamlessly connect productivity, entertainment and everyday lifestyle experiences.

The long-awaited HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro introduces an upgraded camera architecture designed to provide precision across multiple focal lengths. Its versatile triple-camera system features a 50 MP Ultra Lighting Camera with a large 1/1.28-inch sensor, a 48 MP Ultra Lighting Telephoto Macro Lens with 4× optical zoom, and a 40 MP Ultra-Wide Angle Camera, allowing users to capture scenes from sweeping landscapes to intricate close-up details with exceptional clarity.

urthermore, the model also includes Huawei’s enhanced True-to-Colour Camera System that maintains colour accuracy and tonal balance across various lighting conditions, preserving natural textures and lifelike tones from bright outdoor scenes to dim indoor environments. Complementing this, Huawei’s intelligent photography features elevate the shooting experience with AI Composition for real-time framing guidance, turning you into an instant professional. The feature analyses the scene in real time—assessing subjects, lines, light, and balance—to intelligently guide your framing. It suggests the perfect crop or zoom and overlays subtle composition hints directly in the viewfinder. No rules to memorise, or endless adjustments needed. Just frame your shot, follow the smart recommendations, and capture stunning, magazine-quality photos every time—professional composition, right in your hand.

Other AI features include AI Remove to effortlessly remove unwanted people or elements in the background, and AI Best Expression, which automatically captures multiple shots and intelligently selects the best expressions to create the best possible group photo.

The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro represents the pinnacle of the Mate Series’ legacy, built upon years of research, engineering excellence and continuous innovation. Since the introduction of the very first Mate smartphone, the series has consistently pushed the boundaries of what a flagship device can achieve. With the Mate 80 Pro, Huawei brings together its most advanced imaging capabilities, intelligent performance and refined design to deliver a device that empowers users to see and capture the world with greater clarity and authenticity.

Continuing the Mate-legacy durability remains a key pillar of the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, which is reinforced with 2nd Generation Kunlun Glass featuring high-strength nanocrystals for improved resistance to drops and impacts up to 20 times stronger than conventional glass panels, complemented by an ultra-durable vegan fibre back panel that adds both resilience and a refined tactile finish. A full-coverage shield against water and dust intrusion, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro is rated IP68 water resistance (up to 6 meters depth) and IP69 high-temperature and high-pressure water jet resistance. It also features the SuperCool Dual Phase Change Heat Dissipation System, which has improved the system’s thermal conductivity efficiency by 16% compared to traditional cooking solutions, and reduced the device’s temperature rise rate by 33%, addressing overheating at its root.

The device is further distinguished by Huawei’s signature Dual Space Ring Design, an evolution of its iconic camera module that blends symmetry with contemporary aesthetics. It is available in Gold, Green, and Black finishes, inspired by natural elements, and reflects the premium identity of the Mate Series.

In conjunction with the launch, HUAWEI Malaysia has also partnered with Tourism Malaysia to introduce the “See, Truly Malaysia” photography campaign, bringing the device’s “See it True” promise to life by capturing the nation’s magnificent heritage, landscapes and vibrant culture through the powerful imaging capabilities of the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro.

Tourism Malaysia said, “We are thrilled to join hands with HUAWEI Malaysia, a global leading provider of smart devices, to promote the beauty of Malaysia in depth. The campaign amplifies our efforts in tourism promotional strategies, elevating Malaysia’s brand visibility on the global stage through the lens of HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, and in turn, establishing Malaysia as a top destination for travelling and culture exploration.”

In addition, HUAWEI also announced the XMAGE Awards 2026 in Malaysia, which will be running from 23 March to 16 August 2026. Driven by the core belief in “The Power of Image”, HUAWEI XMAGE aims to empower everyone to become a master storyteller through the innovative lens of the Mate 80 Pro. By capturing the authentic Malaysian nature, vibrant colors, beautifully diverse faces, and unique cultural glow, the XMAGE platform transforms everyday moments into a powerful medium for cross-cultural dialogue.

Alongside the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, Huawei also introduces new additions to its smart device ecosystem. The HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5 brings Huawei’s latest audio innovation with its Dual-Driver Acoustic System, supporting high-resolution lossless audio transmission to deliver richer sound reproduction with deeper bass and clearer high frequencies. Priced at RM699 and now available in Grey, White and Gold, customers will receive one year of Loss Care protection worth RM59 upon purchase.

The earbuds also feature the world’s first dual-driver Dual-Engine AI Noise Cancellation architecture, which intelligently coordinates both drivers to adapt to environmental noise in real-time. This ensures clearer calls and a more immersive listening experience, whether users are commuting, travelling or working in busy environments.

Meanwhile, the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 in Green continues Huawei’s premium outdoor smartwatch legacy. Retaining its advanced diving capabilities and premium yet durable construction, the latest edition introduces enhanced golf-focused features designed to deliver more intelligent sports tracking for enthusiasts both on the course and at the driving range. Priced at RM3,999, the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 is now available with free gifts worth up to RM402, including two years of Huawei Care⁺ protection and three months of Huawei Health⁺ membership.

Completing the lineup is the HUAWEI FreeClip 2 in Rose Gold, offering Huawei’s distinctive open-ear design that prioritises comfort and stability. With its signature “Never Feel, Never Fall” wearing experience, the device allows users to enjoy audio throughout the day while maintaining awareness of their surroundings. The HUAWEI FreeClip 2, priced at RM749, is now open for pre-orders with a rebate worth RM50 and one year of Loss Care protection worth RM59.

Consumers can now pre-order the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro retailing at RM3,999 at any HUAWEI Experience Stores, the HUAWEI Official Website, HUAWEI Official Store on Shopee, HUAWEI Flagship Store on Lazada, and the HUAWEI Official TikTok Shop and receive complimentary gifts worth up to RM2,115, including the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 and HUAWEI Premium Services, which include complimentary One Year Huawei Care⁺ (valid for one claim), Three Years Battery Replacement (valid for one claim), Two Years Screen Protector (valid for four claims)  and One Year APAC Warranty.

Customers can also enjoy additional premium AppGallery benefits worth up to RM1,565, including exclusive deals from brands such as Kiehl’s, Wilson, Salomon, DurianBB, ANTA and OGAWA, alongside Shopee PayLater offers of 10% off with a minimum spend of RM600 at selected HUAWEI Experience Stores.

For the latest updates or promotions regarding the launch, please visit the HUAWEI Official Website, the HUAWEI Official Facebook page, or Instagram.

Built to Outperform: Thai Wah’s Multicore Platform Targets Double-Digit Growth

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Resilient by Design. Scaling Lean. Winning in Any Market. Across APAC in 2026

Thursday 12 March 2026 – Thai Wah Public Company Limited (TWPC) today outlined its strategic roadmap for 2026 and beyond, building on a landmark FY2025 turnaround that saw net profit surge to THB 156 million, gross margin expand 630 basis points to 21.3%, and total volume grow 7%. With a strengthened balance sheet, an IBD-to-equity ratio of 0.22x, and all three business pillars performing, TWPC enters 2026 positioned to deliver sustained growth across its Multicore platform.

TWPC’s Multicore business platform, comprising Food, Specialty Ingredients (HVA), and Native Starch, has proven its ability to generate earnings resilience through commodity cycles, seasonal troughs, and macroeconomic headwinds. In FY2025, the Company returned to profitability with net profit of THB 156 million, while reducing leverage to an IBD-to-equity ratio of 0.22x.

Both the Food and HVA segments delivered strong gross profit growth in FY2025. TWPC is targeting revenue growth and net profit growth of more than 10% in 2026. The Food Business is on a clear path toward THB 4 billion in revenue by 2030, with FY2025 sales reaching THB 2,558 million. Ready-to-Eat (RTE) products, now the Food BU’s fastest-growing and highest-margin category, grew 53% YoY, with new product development (NPD) achieving a CAGR exceeding 50%. Distribution has expanded to over 16,000 modern trade outlets across Southeast Asia, with the Company continuing to scale its regional footprint.

The Specialty Ingredients (HVA) Business is targeting volume growth exceeding 10% in 2026, supported by expanded capacity and strategic market entry in India, Indonesia, and the Philippines. With over food scientists across five innovation centers in Bangkok, Shanghai, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, and Bengaluru, TWPC delivers more than 50 market-ready formulations annually, customized to local taste profiles.

China 2.0: New Factory, Accelerated Growth. China represents a key strategic growth pillar for 2026. TWPC’s new China factory commenced operations in Q2 2026, positioning the Company to capture accelerating demand for specialty ingredients across the market. The Company is targeting growth exceeding 20% in China this year, with expanded local production capacity enabling faster customer response, lower logistics costs, and deeper market penetration across food and industrial applications.

TWPC’s premiumization strategy continues to accelerate, systematically shifting the product mix toward higher-value, lower-volatility categories. In Food, the Company has achieved No. 1 market position in the premium non-wheat noodles segment in Thailand, while RTE and Ready-to-Cook (RTC) formats command significantly higher margins than traditional product lines. In HVA, specialty formulations for bakery, dairy, sauces, and snack applications operate within a gross margin range of 20-30%, independent of commodity benchmarks. The Company’s long-term target is for Food and HVA to contribute over 80% of total profit by 2030, with the earnings quality transformation already well underway.

The Company’s cost transformation program delivered THB 96 million in material cost savings in FY2025, with further initiatives targeting over THB 150 million in cumulative savings over the next three years through process improvement, digital transformation, and supply chain optimization. Finance costs were reduced by 43% in FY2025 through disciplined debt management. TWPC’s multi-country sourcing capability across Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia provides structural flexibility to optimize raw material costs and mitigate supply disruptions.

Looking ahead, TWPC has set clear priorities for 2026 with revenue and net profit growing double digit. China production expansion exceeding 20%, cost savings programs delivering over THB 150 million in cumulative over the next three years through process improvement and digital transformation. The Company maintains a strong financial position with funds ready for strategic deployment, with accelerated deleveraging creating headroom to invest in future growth opportunities.

TWPC’s commitment to sustainable business practices was recognized through multiple achievements in 2025, including SET ESG Rating Level A, FTSE Russell score 3.8 with a perfect 5.0 in Governance, CDP ratings of B- for Climate Change and B- for Water Security, EcoVadis Bronze medal, and Gold for Excellence in Talent Management at the HR Excellence Awards.

Mr. Ho Ren Hua, Chief Executive Officer, stated: “2025 proved that disciplined execution delivers results. We expanded gross profit margin by 630 basis points, returned to profitability, and strengthened our balance sheet, all while investing in growth. In 2026, we are committed to double digit growth in both revenue and profit, driven by our Multicore platform, relentless cost discipline, and the resilience of a diversified supply chain that positions us to compete and win across APAC.”

The Board of Directors has approved a cash dividend of THB 0.114 per share for the period 1 January to 31 December 2025, maintaining its dividend to shareholders as a reflection of restored and sustained profitability. The ex-dividend date is 29 April 2026, with payment on 20 May 2026.

Fries meet pistachio at Happy Potato

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Happy Potato Malaysia is elevating its fries with a festive flavour upgrade — the Emerald Pistachio Crumble. This limited‑edition creation features a drizzle of real pistachio sauce over crispy fries, delivering a rich, nutty twist that enhances every bite. Tapping into the viral pistachio trend, it’s designed to satisfy consumers who crave bold, innovative flavours while staying in tune with current taste preference.

Sweetening Ramadan and Raya with the Baskin‑Robbins Pistachoco Way

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Baskin‑Robbins Malaysia is adding a Middle Eastern touch to its festive lineup with the Dubai chocolate-inspired Pistachoco Crunch. This indulgent creation blends creamy pistachio with rich chocolate and a satisfying crunch, turning every scoop into a celebration of flavour. Perfect for making your Raya moments extra sweet, Pistachoco Crunch will be available starting 12 March 2026.

  • Pistachoco Cone – RM14.9
  • Pistachoco Sundae – RM13.9
  • Pistachoco Blast – RM14.9
  • Pistachoco Pint – RM42.9
  • Pistachoco Cake (6”) – RM128.0

Crunch Into festivity: Pistachio Kunafa at llaollao Malaysia

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Pistachio kunafa has become a go‑to festive Ramadan flavour for many foodservice brands, so it is no surprise that llaollao Malaysia is embracing the trend. The frozen yogurt brand has unveiled Pistachio Kunafa as its latest seasonal creation, combining nutty richness with crunchy texture for a celebratory treat. This limited‑time flavour will be available from 13 March to 19 April 2026, offering fans a chance to indulge in a sweet and festive twist before it disappears from the menu.

Sip smarter with Indocafe Less Sugar

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Indocafe Coffeemix 3‑in‑1 is now available in a new “Less Sugar” option, catering to health‑conscious consumers who are mindful of their sugar intake. This instant coffee stands out for its clean formulation — it contains no artificial coffee flavouring, no artificial sweeteners, no colouring, and is free from trans fats and preservatives. With the launch of this variant, Indocafe is offering coffee lovers the same rich taste they enjoy, but in a lighter, more balanced format that aligns with modern wellness trends.

Mighty White’s sweet spin on matcha fever

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Everyone is riding the matcha wave, and Mighty White is seizing the moment with a creative spin. The Malaysian bakery brand has unveiled a limited‑edition cream roll that pairs earthy matcha with sweet strawberry, delivering a delightful balance of savoury and fruity notes. Don’t miss out — this flavourful twist is only available while stocks last.

Ayam Brand Malaysia stirs up comfort with mixed beans stew

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Ayam Brand has introduced its new Mixed Beans Stew (425g) in Malaysia, reinforcing its presence in the canned pulse category. This hearty stew combines navy beans, chickpeas, and red kidney beans in a rich tomato base, enhanced with onions, garlic, parsley, and black pepper. Packed with protein and fibre, the Mixed Beans Stew is crafted to pair perfectly with rice, naan, or roti canai.

PM Anutin Opens THAIFEX–HOREC ASIA 2026, Positioning Thailand as Asia’s HoReCa Hub; Expects THB3.5 Billion Trade Target and Thanks 20 Major Global Importers for Supporting Thai Products

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Bangkok, Thailand, 11 March 2026 – Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of Thailand, presided over the opening ceremony of THAIFEX – HOREC ASIA 2026, Asia’s most comprehensive trade show for the hospitality, food service, and restaurant industries. Also attending the ceremony was Ms. Suphajee Suthumpun, Minister of Commerce, together with senior executives from the Ministry of Commerce. The event aims to elevate Thailand as a leading HoReCa hub in Asia, covering the hotel, restaurant, café, and catering sectors. Organised by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, in collaboration with the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) and Koelnmesse (KM), Germany, the event takes place from 11–13 March 2026 at Challenger Halls 1–2, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok. It is expected to attract more than 20,000 trade visitors, buyers, and business professionals from around the world, while generating over THB 3.5 billion in trade value.

In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister said, “THAIFEX – HOREC ASIA serves as an international trade platform that enables entrepreneurs, investors, and buyers from across the globe to connect, exchange knowledge, and turn opportunities into tangible business outcomes, while also shaping the future direction of the HoReCa industry together.” He added that this year’s edition is the largest and most comprehensive to date, showcasing a full spectrum of products, services, and innovations tailored to businesses of all sizes, with nearly 700 leading exhibitors from 35 countries, including Thailand.

Mr. Anutin further noted that the strong growth of both the event and the HoReCa sector reflects Thailand’s position as a leading force in shaping the future of the global hospitality industry. Thailand’s strengths extend far beyond products and services, also including its rich food culture, creative design, lifestyle, and the world-renowned spirit of Thai hospitality. These qualities form a vital foundation for generating economic value and expanding international trade opportunities for Thai businesses.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister also presented awards to 20 key importers from various countries under the “Thailand’s Best Friend 2026” programme. The initiative is intended to strengthen trade relations and express appreciation for major import partners who have played an important role in expanding market opportunities for Thai products and helping reduce the country’s trade barriers.

Spanning more than 35,000 square metres, THAIFEX – HOREC ASIA 2026 brings together entrepreneurs and brands from around the world across nine key product categories: Bakery & Ice-Cream, Café & Bar, Cleaning & Laundry, Dining, Furnishing, Kitchen, Services, Tech, and Wellness, alongside the special HoReCa Food zone.

The event also features a wide range of highlights, including the THAIFEX – HOREC Xperiential Zone, the expert-led knowledge-sharing sessions under THAIFEX – HOREC Academy, the THAIFEX – HOREC Innovation Awards, the Thailand Ultimate Housekeeping Challenge, the ASEAN Coffee Roasting Championship, and the ACF Coffee Appreciation Protocol training and demonstration sessions, a must-attend programme for café operators and coffee enthusiasts alike.

THAIFEX – HOREC ASIA 2026 takes place from 11–13 March 2026, from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m., at Challenger Halls 1–2, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani. Interested visitors can find more information and register for free at www.thaifex-horec.asia.

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