For Ramadan this year, myBurgerLab Malaysia has introduced Macam Roti John—a creative twist on the classic Roti Bun. Priced at RM15, it features minced meat with egg and onion, cheese sauce, signature red sauce, pickled red onions, and lettuce.
Earlier, during Chinese New Year, the brand launched MALA‑TOP, a crispy fried chicken thigh topped with mala sauce, crunchy lotus root, and a subtle numbing kick that lingers.
Coveted releases arrive exclusively at Hank’s
Kuala Lumpur, 28 January 2026 — Renowned Islay distillery Ardbeg unveils three limited edition single malt whiskies, now exclusively available at Hank’s. As part of Ardbeg’s Maison esteemed portfolio, the expressions highlight the distillery’s relentless pursuit of innovation, craftsmanship and collectability.
Ardbeg Smokiverse
Held annually on the final Saturday of Islay’s Festival of Music and Malt, Fèis Ìle, Ardbeg Day is a global celebration of all things Ardbeg. 2025 marks an important chapter for Ardbeg, celebrating 25 years of the Ardbeg Committee alongside the arrival of the Ardbeg Smokiverse.
This limited edition is Ardbeg’s first whisky crafted using a pioneering high-gravity mash, a technique that reduces water during mashing to intensify flavour-active esters, resulting in a distinctly vibrant, tropical and fruit-forward spirit.
Ardbeg’s Whisky Creation Team began experimenting some years ago with the mashing process, in which malted barley is converted into fermentable sugars. One of their experiments involved reducing the amount of water used in the packed mash tun. This unconventional “high-gravity” mash magnified the intensity of flavour-active compounds known as acetate esters, leading to a fruitier, more tropical spirit.
Aged in bourbon casks, the whisky unveils layers of muscovado sugar, ripe barley, and toasted sourdough bread, all culminating in a burst of ripe tropical fruits and sweet peat.
Dr Bill Lumsden MBE, Ardbeg’s Director of Whisky Creation, said: “The first whisky we have ever made with a high-gravity mash, Ardbeg Smokiverse takes our single malt’s classic peaty character to a new frontier of flavour. By ramping up the density of our wort to new heights, we’ve drawn in fruitier, sweeter flavours from the deepest corners of the mash tun.
Upon first sip, you can expect a vibrant burst of fruity, ester notes, rather like smoked bubblegum, along with aromas of barley. Then peaty notes collide with juicy, tropical fruits, before sinking into a rich depth of muscovado sugar.”
Ardbeg Anthology: The Beithir’s Tale (15 Years Old)
Ardbeg Anthology is a trilogy of unusual single malts that combine classic Ardbeg with experimental stock to create sweeter, more delicate tones. Capturing the “hybrid” characters of these whiskies, each release is inspired by different mythological creatures said to have been glimpsed on Islay.
The final chapter in the Anthology trilogy — following The Harpy’s Tale and The Unicorn’s Tale — The Beithir’s Tale is the distillery’s first whisky matured in designer bourbon casks. Years ago, the whisky creation team laid down a parcel of spirit in these bespoke casks to explore their effects on Ardbeg’s smoky, balanced character.
Air-seasoned rather than kiln-dried, then heavily toasted and lightly charred, the casks promised to bring fuller, creamier flavours to Ardbeg.
Master Blender Gillian Macdonald said, “We are always pushing the boundaries of Ardbeg to discover even more flavour combinations. The sweet and smoky ‘hybrids’ of Ardbeg Anthology are as experimental as they come. Created from whisky matured in our designer casks, The Beithir’s Tale is the aromatic and sweet finale of our Anthology series. Named after a mythological, serpentine beast, this 15-year-old whisky invites notes of vanilla and smoked butter to slide through Ardbeg’s classic aromatic flavours of peat smoke, fennel, eucalyptus and pine. Rather like the beithir, it is smooth and mysterious…with a smoky, menthol bite!”
The release has earned critical acclaim, including a Spirit Gold Outstanding 2025 award (98 points) at the International Wine & Spirits Competition and a gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge.
Ardbeg 19 Years Old – Traigh Bhan Batch 7
Ardbeg Islay single malt whisky unveils the final small-batch release of its impossibly balanced 19-year-old whisky, Ardbeg Traigh Bhan (pronounced “Tri-Van”). For seven years, the distillery has bottled an annual limited batch of this rare and ever-changing dram.
Inspired by the Islay’s beautiful Traigh Bhan beach, also known as the Singing Sands, each batch of Ardbeg’s whisky is seductively smooth, with rugged flavour notes breaking the surface.
Batch 7 is aged in a combination of bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, just as its predecessors were. However, with a higher proportion of first-fill sherry casks than ever before, the final bottling subtly tips the scales towards Ardbeg’s sherried side. Rich salted toffee and espresso come to the fore, underpinned by warming spices. These notes find harmony with more classic Ardbeggian aromas of coal dust, lemon peel and mint.
Bottled at a higher strength of 50.3% ABV (higher than previous batches’ ABV of 46.2%), the concluding release magnifies Traigh Bhan’s rare harmony of flavour and its famed “impossible balance”.
According to David Pender, Ardbeg’s Whisky Stock & Blending Manager, “Ardbeg Traigh Bhan draws inspiration from one of my favourite places on the island. Tasting the differences between each release over the years has been a fascinating journey. I hope Ardbeg fans will relish the opportunity to discuss them all while savouring a dram of this final batch.”
Master Blender Gillian Macdonald added, “Each batch of Ardbeg Traigh Bhan reveals unique variations in the whisky, while still maintaining its ‘impossible’ balance – and Batch 7 is no exception. By adding more Oloroso sherry casks to the recipe, we have brought waves of ginger, cumin and toffee to Ardbeg’s medicinal smoke, citrus notes and hints of jasmine and fresh mint. As this is the last batch to be created, we have intensified the whisky’s character with a higher ABV. So, I can say for certain that Ardbeg Traigh Bhan will go out on a high!”
Also Available: Ardbeg 19 Years Old – Traigh Bhan Batch 6
Alongside the three latest exclusive releases, Ardbeg 19 Years Old – Traigh Bhan Batch 6 is also available at Hank’s, as well as other select retail outlets. Aged in bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, Batch 6 presents as a delicate balance of olive oil and newly mown lawn grass, layered with classic Ardbeg notes.
According to Master Blender Gillian Macdonald, “With more refill bourbon casks in the recipe than previous bottlings, Batch 6 overflows with more of Ardbeg’s hallmark smoky notes of soot, dark chocolate, coffee and peppermint, alongside a groundswell of olive oil, baking bread, and ginger.”
Together, the four expressions reflect Ardbeg’s uncompromising approach to whisky-making from experimental production techniques and bespoke cask design to the final chapter of one of Islay’s most distinctive modern single malts. Available across 50 Hank’s outlets nationwide and via the Grab app, the collection offers a rare opportunity for collectors and smoky-malt enthusiasts alike.
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KUALA LUMPUR, 12 February 2026 – Cili Kampung Malaysia (“Cili Kampung”) has acquired a 50% equity stake in Dotty’s Pastries & Coffee Sdn Bhd (“Dotty’s”), marking a significant consolidation move within Malaysia’s food and beverage (“F&B”) sector as both brands position for national expansion. The strategic partnership, which values the Dotty’s entity at RM23.9 million, brings together two homegrown brands with complementary strengths, uniting authentic Malay culinary heritage with premium artisanal bakery craftsmanship.
The strategic acquisition coincides with Dotty’s milestone 10th anniversary, signalling a new phase of growth for the brand as it transitions from a restaurant favourite into a scalable, nationally recognised Halal-certified artisanal dining concept. Under the partnership, Cili Kampung has subscribed to 11,956,234 new shares, representing a 50% ownership stake, reflecting long-term confidence in Dotty’s brand equity, product innovation and market relevance.
As part of the deal, both parties have committed a combined RM5 million growth fund to accelerate expansion plans. The fund will be channelled towards strengthening operational infrastructure, enhancing supply chain capabilities, and spearheading the recent relaunch of Dotty’s flagship KLCC all-day dining house, while laying the groundwork for a broader national footprint across high-growth urban and lifestyle locations.
Strategically, the partnership is designed to unlock scale and market share by leveraging Dotty’s JAKIM Halal-certified central kitchen, premium artisanal intellectual property and loyal customer base, alongside Cili Kampung’s proven operational discipline, cost efficiencies and rapid expansion expertise. Together, the combined platform establishes a formidable presence within the modern Malay lifestyle and dining segment, appealing to both traditional diners and the increasingly discerning premium café-going demographic.
Anwar Azeez, Director of Cili Kampung Malaysia, said, “Our acquisition of a 50% stake in Dotty’s is a deliberate step to institutionalise a brand that has shaped Malaysia’s all-day dining culture for the past decade. The investment reflects our confidence in Dotty’s brand equity, operational fundamentals and long-term growth potential. By aligning Cili Kampung’s operational discipline and expansion expertise with Dotty’s artisanal strengths, we are building a stronger platform across the modern Malay and premium Halal artisanal café verticals, positioning both brands for sustainable growth in Malaysia and beyond.”
Cili Kampung has steadily expanded its footprint across Malaysia, operating multiple outlets in key locations including Langkawi, Klang Valley, Penang and Kelantan. With a growing presence in high traffic retail and hospitality destinations, the group has outlined plans for further expansion supported by a centralised kitchen strategy designed to enhance efficiency, consistency and scalability.
“The acquisition aligns with the group’s broader brand and portfolio strategy. As we scale Cili Kampung nationally, it is important that we grow alongside brands that share the same commitment to quality, trust and relevance. Dotty’s has built strong consumer resonance over the years. This partnership allows us to amplify Dotty’s brand visibility, accelerate domestic expansion, and support its next phase of growth across key markets in Malaysia through stronger execution and reach,” said Kesavan (KC) Purusotman, Chief Marketing Officer of Cili Kampung Malaysia.
Nadia Nasimuddin, Founder and Director of Dotty’s Pastries and Coffee, said the partnership marks a defining moment in the brand’s evolution. “As we enter our tenth year, this partnership provides the structure and support needed to grow Dotty’s beyond its independent roots into a scalable national powerhouse. With Cili Kampung as an equal partner, we are focused on scaling responsibly while staying true to the artisanal standards and hospitality experience that have defined Dotty’s from the beginning.”
The acquisition follows the recent relaunch of Dotty’s flagship outlet at Suria KLCC, which marked a refreshed store concept and reinforced the brand’s positioning within high-traffic premium retail locations. The relaunch reflects Dotty’s readiness to scale, supported by a stronger operating platform following Cili Kampung’s entry as a strategic partner.
For more information, visit their official websites at cilikampung.com and mydottys.com.
BANGKOK, Feb. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Researchers at Chulalongkorn University have developed a new cookbook designed to improve nutrition, safety, and quality of life for older adults and people with swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia. Titled Happy to Swallow: 52 Simple Recipes for Delicious Dysphagia Meals, the publication adapts popular Thai dishes into texture-modified meals that are safe to swallow while remaining visually appealing and flavorful.
The cookbook is led by Assitstant Professor Dr. Varanya Techasukthavorn, the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences. It builds on the team’s earlier work, 46 IDDSI-Compliant Swallowing Practice Menus, Thailand’s first cookbook developed under the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI). The new volume translates years of academic research on texture-modified foods into practical guidance for home kitchens and care settings.
The book features 52 recipes spanning familiar Thai main dishes, desserts, and beverages that have been redesigned to reduce choking risk while preserving authentic flavor and presentation. Each recipe was tested and refined in a kitchen laboratory to ensure safety, palatability, and nutritional adequacy.
Malnutrition remains a significant concern among older adults and individuals with dysphagia, many of whom avoid eating due to fear of choking or dissatisfaction with unappealing puréed foods. To address this, all recipes are developed by professional dietitians to provide balanced nutrients and adequate energy intake. The cookbook emphasizes natural, locally available ingredients and minimizes the use of additives, making it accessible to families and caregivers.
All dishes comply with IDDSI standards, a globally recognized framework used in hospitals and long-term care facilities to classify food textures and liquid thickness. The bilingual Thai-English format broadens the book’s reach to international caregivers, healthcare professionals, and foreign seniors living in Thailand.
The publication forms part of a national research project examining the implementation of IDDSI-based diets in hospitals nationwide and is partially funded by the Ratchadapisek Somphot Fund of Chulalongkorn University. Researchers say the project aims not only to improve nutrition and safety, but also to restore dignity, confidence, and enjoyment at the dining table.
Happy to Swallow is available as a free digital download and for purchase through designated online platforms, serving as a practical resource for caregivers and health professionals seeking safer, culturally familiar meals for people with swallowing difficulties.
Contact LINE Official Account: @dysphagiadiet.th for more information.
Read the full article and download Happy to Swallow: 52 Simple Recipes for Delicious Dysphagia Meals for free at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/278578
The book is available for purchase via the Happy to Swallow Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/happytoswallow/
Read the full article at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/278578/
A simple, guaranteed-acceptance savings and protection plan designed to help Malaysian families build their financial future with early liquidity and flexible premiums starting from RM250 a month.
Kuala Lumpur, 13 February 2026 – Sun Life Malaysia Assurance Berhad (Sun Life Malaysia), a life insurance company today launches Sun Save Future, a new guaranteed-acceptance savings and protection plan designed to give policyholders earlier access to their savings without compromising long-term financial goals.
Unlike traditional savings plans that lock funds away until maturity, Sun Save Future caters to Malaysian families facing rising living costs and multi-generational responsibilities. The plan offers guaranteed yearly cash payouts of up to 50% of annual premiums, beginning from the end of the second policy year, providing early liquidity to help the sandwich generation manage current financial needs while continuing to build future wealth.
Recent insights from Sun Life’s Retirement Reimagined study highlight the growing need for flexible financial solutions: 64% of Malaysians expect to work beyond retirement age, with 63% citing income needs as the main reason. These findings reflect increasing concern over cash flow resilience and the ability to stay financially prepared through different life stages.
Sun Save Future addresses these realities by combining early liquidity, protection, and potential long-term growth within a single plan. Policyholders can choose flexible premium payment terms, from as short as five years, or extended options of 20, 25 or 30 years, with coverage of up to 30 years allowing families to align their commitments with their financial capacity over time.
Ho Teck Seng, President and Country Head of Sun Life Malaysia, said, “Financial resilience today is about access and choice, not a fixed milestone. Many Malaysians need savings solutions that fit real-life cash flow while safeguarding long-term goals. Sun Save Future offers families that balance – providing early access to funds when needed, with flexible payments and predictable payouts – so Malaysians can stay financially resilient and see working longer as an option, not a necessity.”
Sun Save Future offers flexibility, accessibility, and potential for growth. Policyholders may access early payouts from reinvested guaranteed yearly cash payments or allow them to continue accumulating in their preferred investment-linked funds, subject to fund performance.
The plan also provides optional fund switches and withdrawals based on evolving needs, helping families respond to market changes or unexpected expenses. No medical checks or underwriting are required, and entry is open from 30 days to 65 years, making it easy for families to secure savings and protection across generations.
Key features of Sun Save Future** at-a-glance:
**Subject to the plan’s terms and conditions.
For more information, please visit www.sunlifemalaysia.com or speak to a Sun Life Malaysia advisor.
A new late-night operating model. An overnight cycling race through its corridors and down its escalators. A line-up of after-dark games, a Night Bazaar, and special rewards. From 28 February, The Seletar Mall turns into a day-to-night destination — and proves that suburban retail doesn’t have to play it safe
SINGAPORE, 19 February 2026 — Suburban malls are best known for convenience and accessibility — but The Seletar Mall, a suburban mall in Sengkang that is part of Allgreen Malls, is raising the bar.
From 28 February to 28 June, the mall will open for 18 hours a day, seven days a week, marking a fresh move for a suburban retail destination — and one that signals confidence in a new kind of night-time experience beyond the city centre.
The move from Allgreen Malls reflects a strategic shift for both the industry and among consumers. In Singapore, a city that never sleeps, late hours aren’t just a niche segment for night owls and shift workers. Flexible schedules, midnight cravings, social plans that don’t check the clock, and a growing appetite for new after-dark experiences beyond traditional nightlife: Today’s consumers expect that their neighbourhoods match their pace of living, and The Seletar Mall is evolving right alongside them.
To celebrate the new late-night hours, The Seletar Mall is rolling out a slate of after-dark experiences and promotions designed to keep the mall buzzing long after the sun sets, giving visitors even more ways to shop, dine, and have fun together.
Kicking things off is the Downmall Challenge, a one-of-a-kind overnight cycling spectacle that boldly reimagines the mall’s corridors and escalators into a high-energy race course. By day, the atrium welcomes families and curious first-timers with fun cycling activities — but by night, the real action begins.
Taking place from 28 February to 1 March and sanctioned by the Singapore Cycling Federation, The Seletar Mall Downmall Challenge 2026 is a two-day cycling showcase that blends family-friendly fun, high-octane action, and late-night thrills, transforming the suburban mall into a dynamic playground for riders and spectators alike.
And that’s just the opening act: The Downmall Challenge marks the first large-scale event to celebrate the new late-night hours, with more events to be announced in the coming months.
Additionally, shoppers can look forward to After Dark activities of a fun Floor is Lava game and a Night Bazaar happening from 2 to 9 March. Think immersive challenges, arcade-style thrills, and delectable treats to keep supper cravings sorted late into the night. Layered on top are new nighttime spending promotions that make every late night visit even more rewarding.
Ms Jacqueline Tan, Cluster Head, JB City Square & The Seletar Mall, says: “The launch of our late-night operating hours marks a new chapter for The Seletar Mall and for suburban retail in Singapore. Malls today must go beyond shopping; they should be vibrant community spaces that evolve with changing lifestyles. The Downmall Challenge brings this to life by transforming our mall into a race course after dark, blending sport, entertainment and community in a bold and memorable way. By extending our hours, we are creating more opportunities for residents to connect, unwind and experience something different, even late into the night.”
Mr Dominic Loh, General Secretary of the Singapore Cycling Federation, says: “Events like the Downmall Challenge help make cycling more accessible by bringing it into everyday spaces and meeting people where they already are. We’re looking forward to doing just that at The Seletar Mall, a vibrant space which is located in the heart of the Sengkang residential area, as it shows how spaces in Singapore can be creatively used to offer new formats of our sport and support active lifestyles.”
With its new operating hours, when the sun goes down, The Seletar Mall is just getting started.
The Seletar Mall Downmall Challenge 2026
From adrenaline-fuelled stunts, kid-friendly activities, and an overnight cycling race through the mall itself, The Seletar Mall’s Downmall Challenge offers a packed programme that unfolds across two days and well into the night.
The centrepiece is the Downmall Biking race, which will be held overnight from February 28 to March 1. The race transforms the mall’s interior into a ride-through course from Level 4 to the Level 1 Atrium. It features four race categories — Weekend Warrior, Open, Masters, and Women’s Open — welcoming participants with varying levels of experience, from first-time Downmall riders to seasoned competitors who have raced in local or overseas Downmall races.
By day, the atrium shifts gears: Complementing the overnight race are two full-day activities perfect for all ages, ranging from families with kids to young adults looking to try something new. On Saturday, 28 February, the Atrium will come alive with an adrenaline-pumping BikeTrial activity and demonstration. Riders will perform impressive balance and control stunts over custom-built obstacles in the Atrium, while inviting thrillseekers to give it a try on a simpler, modified course.
The next day, on Sunday, 1 March will welcome a fresh Push Bike activity designed for younger kids to take their first steps into cycling in a safe and engaging environment.
After Dark, the Buzz Continues with these Fun Activities
When night falls, the fun keeps going at the Level 1 Atrium with a bevy of lively activities! From 2 to 9 March, look forward to a fast-paced Floor is Lava game or dive into one of the many arcade games available. Afterwards, refresh yourself and keep the fun going with a tasty snack from the Night Bazaar.
Floor is Lava & Arcade Games
2 – 9 March 2026 | Daily from 6pm – 3am; last day of operations close at 9pm
Dive into an after-dark playground, featuring an interactive Floor is Lava zone, as well as fast-paced arcade games like F1 simulator rides and dart machines, that turn the Level 1 Atrium into a high-energy zone for thrill-seeking night owls.
For entry before 9pm, simply spend $20 in a single receipt at any store in The Seletar Mall. For entry after 9pm, all you need to do is make a purchase at the Night Bazaar and flash your receipt to enter!
Night Bazaar
2 – 9 March 2026 | Daily from 11am – 3am (selected stalls) – last day of operations close at 10pm
Feeling hungry after all that fun? Be spoilt for choice with a wide array of delectable street snacks and goodies that are sure to satisfy any supper cravings!
Night Owl Lockers Surprise!
20 March – 17 May 2026
Late-night shoppers, listen up – this one’s for you! Spend a minimum of $30* in a single same-day receipt between 10pm to 3am and get a chance to win an exciting prize from the mystery lockers, which range from massage chairs to cash vouchers.
*Limited to the first 300 redemptions monthly. Limited to one redemption per day per Great Rewards Member.
18/7 Spend & Redeem Promotion
28 February – 28 June 2026
Shop at participating tenants during The Seletar Mall’s extended hours and be rewarded! Spend a minimum of $100* from 9pm – 4am for a sure-win game chance that includes prizes such as Great Rewards Points, and e-Vouchers worth up to $10.
*Limited to the first 600 redemptions per month. Limited to one redemption per day per Great Rewards Member
Late-Night Retail and Dining Options at The Seletar Mall
From 28 February to 28 June, a curated mix of tenants at The Seletar Mall will operate till late daily, giving shoppers even greater flexibility and access to dining, wellness, and everyday essentials beyond typical operating hours.
They include:
With its new shift to late-night operations and experiential events, The Seletar Mall aims to offer shoppers even more ways to use and enjoy the space at different times of the day, with more activities to be announced in the coming months.
New regional studies provide evidence on AI adoption, digital readiness, and governance gaps across ASEAN Member States.
Kuala Lumpur, 19 February 2026 – ASEAN Foundation, supported by Google.org, officially launched the ASEAN Digital Outlook today, alongside a first look at the AI Ready ASEAN Research, during the AI Ready ASEAN 3rd Regional Policy Convening in Manila, Philippines.
Developed jointly with the ASEAN Digital Senior Officials’ Meeting (ADGSOM), the ASEAN Digital Outlook aligns closely with ASEAN-wide digital governance priorities, offering a regional perspective on digital maturity, infrastructure development, and institutional preparedness. Together with the AI Ready ASEAN Research, it builds on the progress of the AI Ready ASEAN programme, which has already reached more than 5 million beneficiaries upskilled in AI literacy, enabled over 100,000 learners to complete in-depth AI training, and empowered more than 3,000 Master Trainers across the region.
These efforts come at a time of rapid change. Digitalisation and artificial intelligence are reshaping ASEAN’s economies, education systems, and public services at unprecedented speed. With a population exceeding 660 million people, nearly one-third of whom are under the age of 20, the region’s ability to adopt AI responsibly will play a decisive role in shaping future skills development, employment opportunities, and social inclusion.
At the same time, ASEAN’s digital economy is projected to grow from USD 300 billion to USD 1 trillion by 2030, creating immense potential alongside increasingly complex risks. As AI adoption accelerates across sectors, the need for inclusive, responsible, and well-governed AI use has become an urgent priority for governments, institutions, and communities across the region. The two studies respond directly to this urgency by shifting the focus beyond access and adoption toward a clearer understanding of readiness, governance, and long-term impact.
“Across ASEAN, we are seeing AI use grow faster than our systems’ ability to guide it,” said Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation. “These studies move the conversation beyond if AI is being used to help us understand whether our institutions, educators, and communities are truly prepared. Evidence like this is essential to designing policies that protect trust, strengthen skills, and ensure AI benefits people, not just economies.”
The ASEAN Digital Outlook provides a broader regional assessment of digital and AI infrastructure, governance, and cybersecurity readiness across ASEAN Member States. While several countries have made progress in strengthening digital infrastructure, the study points to uneven levels of digital maturity and institutional capacity across the region. Persistent gaps in digital skills, public trust, cybersecurity preparedness, and responsible technology use underscore the limitations of fragmented national approaches.
On the other hand, the AI Ready ASEAN Research assesses AI readiness across ten ASEAN Member States, focusing on education communities and examining students, educators, and parents as key actors shaping how AI is adopted, understood, and governed. The findings reveal a consistent gap between high levels of AI usage and actual readiness, particularly in AI literacy, ethical understanding, and institutional support. While students often emerge as early adopters of AI tools, educators and parents face greater barriers related to confidence, guidance, and access to structured training.
Based on the findings, more than 50% of educators in Malaysia have completed AI-related courses, while approximately 75.73% of students report no formal AI training. Educators and parents in the country rank among the highest in AI literacy across ASEAN, despite underestimating their own readiness. In contrast, students display higher confidence than actual literacy, revealing a perception capability gap that may lead to improper use of AI tools.
Taken together, the findings from both studies show that across ASEAN, AI and digital adoption are advancing faster than institutional, ethical, and community readiness. Students are the most active users of AI tools, while educators and parents report lower confidence and literacy. At the same time, growing risks, including online scams, deepfake-enabled fraud, misinformation, and data breaches, are undermining trust in digital systems and reinforcing the need for stronger governance frameworks.
“Access to AI tools alone is not enough,” said Marija Ralic, Head of Google.org APAC. “Real readiness requires people to understand how AI works, where its limits lie, and how it can be used ethically. These findings reinforce why investments in AI literacy, especially for educators and communities, are critical to ensuring that technological progress translates into inclusive opportunity.”
Through the launch of the AI Ready ASEAN Research and the ASEAN Digital Outlook, ASEAN Foundation contributes data-driven insights to support informed policy dialogue on digital and AI transformation across the region. The studies are intended to serve as key references for policymakers, educators, and development partners in designing interventions that strengthen digital literacy, institutional readiness, and inclusive growth.
Singapore’s MAD Coffee has launched four ready‑to‑drink (RTD) oat‑based coffee beverages in Malaysia, now available at CU and myNEWS convenience stores.
Dairy‑free and free from added sugar, the lineup features Original, Double Double, Kaya Toast, and MAD Dinosaur — with the latter two offering indulgent, uniquely local‑inspired flavours.
China’s Nongfu Spring has secured a major milestone in Malaysia with the nationwide listing of its Cha Pai (茶π) ready‑to‑drink fruit‑flavoured tea series at 99 Speedmart. For an imported brand still relatively unfamiliar to most Malaysians outside the local Chinese community, gaining placement in 99 Speedmart — the country’s largest minimarket chain with over 3,000 outlets — represents a significant achievement.
While Cha Pai had previously been available mainly through specialty stores, this new distribution channel ensures visibility and accessibility across Malaysia.
Nongfu Spring has localised the packaging of Cha Pai to better suit the Malaysian market, underscoring the importance of adapting packaging as a crucial first step in market entry. Produced in China, the drink carries halal certification from Shaanxi Shang Pin Yuan Halal Food & Restaurant Management (SSPY), an organisation officially recognized by JAKIM.
Social media has been flooded with posts, particularly from Malay consumers, who were impressed by the taste of Cha Pai and enthusiastically recommended it to their followers. This wave of positive sentiment highlights the success of Nongfu Spring’s strategy.
Nongfu Spring has introduced three Cha Pai flavours at 99 Speedmart, with each 500ml bottle priced at RM3.90.
