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Healthy instant noodles, sugar-free gummy bears: 5 healthy snack brands at Boutiques Singapore for guilt-free indulgence

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Jammy's Gelato

There are five healthy snack brands to keep a lookout for during the upcoming Boutiques Singapore: The Spring Summer Edition happening from 21 – 23 March.

From plant-based and sugar-free treats to nutrient-rich instant noodles, these homegrown brands are here to offer you delectable, guilt-free treats to indulge in.

Jammy’s: Plant-based gelatos and gummy bears 

Jammy’s Gummy bears

When you think of gelato or gummy bears, you might associate them with heaps of sugar and unnecessary additives. However, with Jammy’s you can enjoy these treats worry-free! Their sweet treats are vegan-friendly and made with low-carb ingredients, designed to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your blood glucose steady to keep you on-track with your weight loss goals.

The founder of the brand, J, was first inspired by her personal journey to break free from sugar addiction. From needing 4 sachets of sugar in her lattes to now only having black coffee, J discovered the transformative power of cutting out refined sugars and unhealthy additives. Now joined by her sister, the sister-duo are committed to changing the way sweet treats are made and consumed.

Exclusive launches such as the Acai Sundae Bowl and Coconut Coffee Sundae will make their way to Boutiques Singapore this year. Jammy’s will also be debuting their new product line – Cookie Bites — available in 3 flavours, Pandan Coconut Cashew, Coffee Hazelnut, and Dark Chocolate Sea Salt.

Crookies: Less than 50 calories per piece

A cross between a crisp cracker and a decadent cookie, Crookies is a unique fusion snack that offers a flavourful and guilt-free alternative to traditional snacks. With bold and adventurous flavours like Chilli, Black Pepper, Ginger & Apricot and Lemongrass, Crookies draws inspiration from diverse cuisines and cultures, offering something new for your palate.

Each Crookie is less than 50 calories, and is crafted with natural, hand-selected ingredients, completely free from refined sugars, preservatives, and additives – making it a healthy treat that is still satisfying.

Super Farmers: Sin-free Instant noodles

Super Farmers NOODS

For busy urbanites, instant noodles may be the only convenient choice, but despite their convenience, they lack the nutritional values that today’s health-conscious consumers desire. Super Farmers is on a quest to change that, as they aim to help Singaporeans eat healthier.

The brand was founded out of a deeply personal experience when its founder, Cynthea, nearly lost her daughter to a preventable food-related allergy. This eye-opening ordeal sparked her mission to create nourishing and more transparent food options in the industry.

Apart from offering caffeine-free teas and other wellness products, Super Farmers have also developed instant noodles where their seasoning packets are nutrient-packed, instead of being loaded with MSG and additives. At Boutiques Singapore, they are returning with new flavours of their Super Farmers NOODS, such as Kimchi and Curry.

YU (屿) Cookies: Made with sugar-conscious recipes

YU (屿) Cookies is a brand that proves cookies no longer have to be a guilty pleasure anymore. Their cookies are made with sugar-conscious recipes and patented technology that ensures slower sugar release, without compromising on taste. Founded in 2023 by three NUS food scientists, YU (屿) Cookies is committed to creating delicious and eco-friendly treats. Each item is packaged in durable metal tins that can be reused for storage, or upcycled into stylish organisers.

Their bestsellers include their Buttery Coffee Macadamia Cookies, where rich, aromatic coffee is paired with crunchy Australian macadamia nuts for a satisfying pick-me-up. For those who enjoy lighter, floral flavours, their Lychee Rose Cookies offer delicate notes of sweet lychee and fragrant rose. Meanwhile, their low-GI certified Tangerine Lychee Rose Cookies deliver a vibrant citrus burst, balanced with the deep, earthy notes of Pu-Erh tea.

Everiday Foods: Perfect for gluten-free or low-carb diets

Everiday Foods Condiments

With a mission to preserve the iconic taste of bold Asian flavours, Everiday Food strives to develop products with clean and healthy ingredients. Riyana Rupani, a Certified Holistic Nutritionist, is passionate about showing others how small, sustainable changes can lead to big transformations. Riyana’s personal health journey – overcoming autoimmune conditions, hormonal imbalances, and digestive issues – has also led her to become more aware of the importance of clean ingredients.

Everiday Foods Gluten Free Tortilla

From chilli sauces, gluten-free breads, to vegan Kaya spreads, Everiday Foods offers something for everyone. Their products are designed to complement a wide variety of diets and lifestyles, from gluten-free to low-carb. Whether you’re craving a flavourful condiment or a snack, their products are dedicated to elevating your meals in a clean and healthy way.

Marrybrown Shares the Spirit of Ramadan with 25,000 servings of Bubur Lambuk Nationwide

By
Tan Heng Hong
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The Marrybrown team preparing Bubur Lambuk under the Kasih Ramadan initiative, continuing their mission to support those in need during the holy month.

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 MARCH 2025 – Staying true to its commitment to community and tradition, Malaysia’s beloved homegrown Halal Quick Service Restaurant (QSR), Marrybrown®, is once again bringing the joy of Ramadan to Malaysians with the distribution of over 25,000 servings of Bubur Lambuk under its Kasih Ramadan 2025 initiative. This annual effort continues to grow each year, ensuring that even more people can experience the warmth of this cherished tradition.

The initiative began at Masjid Puncak Alam, where Marrybrown’s team prepared and distributed Bubur Lambuk to the local community. Recognising the significance of this time-honoured dish, Marrybrown® is dedicated to fostering togetherness and generosity – values deeply rooted in the spirit of Ramadan.

Mr. Daniel Chan, CEO of Marrybrown, distributing Bubur Lambuk at Masjid Puncak Alam as part of the Kasih Ramadan initiative.

“Last year’s overwhelming response reaffirmed our belief in the importance of this tradition, and we are proud to expand our initiative even further this year,” said Daniel Chan, Chief Executive Officer of Marrybrown®.

“As a brand that has been part of the Malaysian community for decades, we understand how Bubur Lambuk brings people together during Ramadan. It is an honour for us to continue this tradition and share a meaningful experience with our fellow Malaysians.”

To reach more people, Marrybrown® has partnered with mosques nationwide and will also extend the initiative to highway rest stops and transit hubs, ensuring that travellers breaking fast on the go enjoy a warm meal. Additionally, participating Marrybrown® outlets will distribute their signature Bubur Ayam MB® to mosques within their communities, reinforcing the brand’s ongoing commitment to giving back.

“Ramadan is a time of reflection, unity, and generosity. We hope that by sharing this simple yet comforting meal, we can bring warmth to those observing the holy month, no matter where they are,” Daniel Chan added.

The Kasih Ramadan 2025 initiative will run until the end of March, ensuring that as many Malaysians as possible can benefit before Hari Raya. With over 600 outlets across 16 countries, Marrybrown® continues to uphold its promise of quality, service, cleanliness, and value, while staying deeply connected to the communities it serves.

For more information on Marrybrown®, MB App, promotions, delivery services, and distribution locations, please visit:

Website: https://marrybrown.com/

MB App: https://mbapp.marrybrown.com/

Facebook: Marrybrown Malaysia

Instagram: Marrybrownmy

TikTok: Marrybrownmy

Threads: Marrybrownmy

YouTube: Marrybrown TV

HaadThip Targets 8.7 Billion Baht Revenue in 2025, Showcasing a Dividend Yield of 6% Per Year

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Friday 14 March 2025 – HaadThip Public Company Limited (HTC) is bullish about its business outlook for 2025, targeting a revenue growth of 5-7%, with projected sales reaching 8.7 billion baht. The company also plans to distribute the final dividend for 2024 of 0.57 baht per share, reinforcing its reputation as a strong dividend stock with a yield of 6%. Looking ahead, the goal is to achieve continued revenue growth, targeting 15 billion baht by 2032. This will be accomplished by maintaining market leadership in the Southern Thailand sparkling beverage segment, expanding the still beverage portfolio, and introducing innovative, consumer-centric products from Coca-Cola. Concurrently, the company is dedicated to sustainability, ensuring that its growth aligns with its commitments to social development and environmental sustainability.

Major General Patchara Rattakul, Chief Executive Officer of HaadThip Public Company Limited, the manufacturer and distributor of Coca-Cola beverages in 14 southern provinces of Thailand, shared the company’s 2025 business outlook, expecting robust growth, with a 5-7% increase in sales revenue, totaling 8.7 billion baht. For 2024, HaadThip sustained 4% growth, reporting 602 million baht in net profit, an increase of 4 million baht (0.6%) compared to 2023. On March 7, 2025, the Board of Directors approved the payment of the final dividend for 2024 of 0.57 baht per share. Combined with the interim dividend of 0.48 baht per share paid in September 2024, the total dividend payout for 2024 amounts to 1.05 baht per share, yielding a dividend of 6%

“We are confident that 2025 will be another strong year for HaadThip. The Bank of Thailand projects the Southern Thai economy to grow by 3.1 – 4.1%, driven by agricultural recovery, tourism, and export-oriented manufacturing, subsequently boosting consumer purchasing power. As the market leader in the non-alcoholic beverage market, HaadThip will further strengthen its market executions, particularly in fast-growing channels like Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafes (HoReCa). Our new returnable glass bottle line not only aligns with the rising demand for reduced plastic usage but also presents a premium product appearance. Additionally, we are working with Coca-Cola to launch new products, especially in the rapidly expanding zero sugar category, which currently accounts for only 5% of total sales. Our latest offering of ‘Coke’ Zero Vanilla, for example, has received an overwhelmingly positive response,” said Major General Patchara.

In its medium and long-term strategy, HaadThip aspires to foster growth and sustain its leadership in the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink (NARTD) market in Southern Thailand. Presently, the company commands a 25% market share in this region and aims to elevate this share to 30% by 2027 and 35% by 2032.

Furthermore, HaadThip places a high priority on sustainability, striving to foster a business that grows in harmony with societal development while minimizing environmental impact. This year, the company aims to increase the share of energy derived from renewable sources to 25% of its total energy consumption in the production process, with a long-term goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050. In terms of packaging sustainability, the company plans to expand its glass bottle business to reduce its reliance on plastic packaging. Additionally, it is committed to collaborating with Coca-Cola and partner organizations to collect and recycle packaging in the Southern region. Currently, discussions are underway with Coca-Cola and partner organizations to establish appropriate targets and timelines, with the project anticipated to launch within this year.

“Throughout the past decade, we have navigated numerous challenges and successfully emerged stronger each time. I firmly believe that our journey over the past 55 years has unequivocally demonstrated HaadThip’s unwavering commitment to conducting business hand in hand with the communities of Southern Thailand and the broader Thai society, fostering robust growth while upholding our responsibilities to both society and the environment. This steadfast dedication has always been the cornerstone of our company’s business philosophy,” concluded Major General Patchara.

Red Box Malaysia Launches Artiste Member Club Card & Celebrates 25th Anniversary with “JOMNYANYI” Theme

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Terry Swee, General Manager of Red Box Karaoke Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, March 12, 2025 – Red Box Karaoke, Malaysia’s premier karaoke entertainment brand, today officially roll out the first Artistes Club RedPay Visa Card for local Malaysian artistes – an exclusive membership wallet aimed at enhancing Malaysian artistes’ journey with exclusive privileges and seamless Visa card payment integration.

Celebrities Fuying 王赴穎, Ribbon 黄若熙 & Sam joining Red Box’s JOMNYANYI event

The launch event, held at Red Box’s flagship outlet at the Exchange TRX Kuala Lumpur, was attended by local artistes and celebrities, recording labels, key industry partners and loyal patrons. An important milestone of Red Box 25 years’ anniversary celebration, the introduction of Artistes Club RedPay Visa Card reflects Red Box’s strategic foray into the digital payment landscape, offering members, alliances and artistes a unified platform for entertainment and financial convenience.

Terry Swee, General Manager of Red Box Karaoke Malaysia

“Our goal is to provide a seamless and rewarding experience for our members, blending entertainment with cutting-edge financial solutions and convenience.” said Terry Swee, General Manager of Red Box Karaoke Malaysia.

The RedPay card provides artistes and music industry players with many benefits to enjoy at our Red Box outlets, simultaneously encouraging our talents to refine their craft and showcase their talents. Being more than just an entertainment venue; Red Box will serve as an incubator for emerging artistes, helping them launch their singing careers while fostering a deeper connection between singers and the public.  It is also a venue for recording labels to host their initiatives which include artistes’ meet and greet, stage their own parties with fans, and launching new albums.

Red Box Karaoke Launches First Malaysian Artistes Club RedPay Visa Card & Unveils Top 50 Songs

As part of Red Box’s 25th Anniversary celebrations, the company has unveiled the Top 50 Hit Songs for the Malay, Chinese and International categories, which aims to foster public engagement and enthusiasm for karaoke entertainment and appreciation of music and showcasing the diverse talents within Malaysia’s music industry. Additionally, these hit songs will offer premium exposure for the top 50 artistes a chance to be featured on the Bukit Bintang digital billboard, thus maximising their visibility.

Representatives from Loolala Music Labels

“The launch of the Artistes Club RedPay Visa Card is a testament to our commitment to nurturing local talents and performers within a vibrant entertainment ecosystem. By connecting singers with the public through the joy of karaoke and our top 50 hit songs, we aim to reignite the nation’s passion for singing, deepen appreciation for local artistes, and provide a unique way for fans to engage with and support their favorite performers.” enthused Terry.

Celebrity Bell 傅熙雅aka 宇田 joining Red Box’s JOMNYANYI event

Celebrating 25 Years of Music with “JOMNYANYI”

In conjunction with its 25th anniversary, Red Box introduces the “JOMNYANYI” campaign, inviting Malaysians to come together and celebrate the joy of singing. “JOMNYANYI” embodies the spirit of unity, fun, and passion for music, encouraging everyone—from casual singers to music enthusiasts—to join in and make memories through music.

Exciting Activities & Promotions Await

To mark this special milestone, Red Box will host a series of events, promotions, and gatherings throughout the year, including:

  • Anniversary specials with exclusive discounts for karaoke sessions
  • “Sing & Win” competitions with attractive prizes
  • Themed singing nights featuring different music genres
  • Special guest performances by local artistes and influencers

Whether you are an aspiring artiste looking for a place to train or simply a music lover who enjoys singing with friends, Red Box welcomes you to be part of its 25-year journey. Grab your Artiste Member Club Card and join the “JOMNYANYI” movement today!

The RedPay Visa Card offers a membership with a suite of exclusive benefits, including priority booking, birthday rewards, and special discounts on room rates and food & beverages. Through the RedPay app, members can effortlessly manage rewards, promotions, and loyalty points, ensuring a seamless and rewarding entertainment experience.

Some exclusive benefits include:

  • Digital Membership Card: Instant access to exclusive member rewards and promotions.
  • Seamless Payments: Cashless transactions at Redbox outlets and worldwide via Visa.
  • Rewards and Cashback: Earn loyalty points and cashback on Redbox services and partner merchants.
  • Special Promotions: Early access to Redbox events, VIP privileges, and seasonal offers.

For more information on the RedPay Visa Card and upcoming events, visit www.redbox.com.my.

McDonald’s Thailand Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Record-Breaking Revenue of 7.9 Billion Baht Accelerating at Full Speed to Continue Growth in 2025

By
Tan Heng Hong
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With the launch of 40th Fanniversary Campaign to Excite and Show Heartfelt Thanks to Customers

Thursday 13 March 2025 – McThai Co., Ltd., the leader in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) business operating McDonald’s in Thailand, announces strong performance with continuous growth for the third consecutive year. In 2024, the company achieved its highest revenue in 39 years at 7.9 billion baht. The company is accelerating its expansion in the fried chicken market and aims to set a record with 10% revenue growth in 2025. Throughout 2025, McDonald’s will celebrate its 40th anniversary in Thailand with the launch of the “40th Fanniversary” campaign, filled with surprises to thank customers for making McDonald’s a part of their everyday moments.

  • In 2024, McDonald’s Thailand broke its revenue growth record, achieving an all-time high of 7,957 million baht, with an 11% profit increase.
  • Moving forward, the company aims to maintain its leading position as the number one QSR leader and also actively expanding into the fried chicken market, targeting growth of more than 15%.
  • With a commitment to sustainable business, the company announces its goal of achieving 100% sustainable packaging by 2025.

Ms. Kittiwan Anuwatesakul, Chief Executive Officer of McThai Co., Ltd., revealed, “McDonald’s Thailand overall performance has shown continuous growth over the past three years. In 2024, we broke our revenue growth record with an all-time high of 7,957 million baht in sales, a 10% increase from last year. Net profit in 2024 also increased by 11% from last year, reflecting the brand’s strength and strong growth as the number one leader in the Thai burger market. This growth is also driven by our proactive strategy in the fried chicken market, which exceeded our target by over 33%.”

McDonald’s Thailand’s focuses on three main strategies, covering business, customers, and community.

PRIORITIES TO DRIVE FOR GROWTH

  • Reinforcing the Flagship Value Platform by Emphasizing Deliciousness and Value-For-Money

In an era where customers are increasingly interested in “value for money”, a strong Value Platform makes it easier for customers to access us daily. This includes the ‘EVM’ (Everyday Value Meals, only 99 baht/set, featuring both Burger and McFried Chicken, as well as the ‘McSavers 1+1’, priced at only 55 baht/set, allowing customers to pair snacks and desserts. Additionally, the McDonald’s coupon application offers a variety of cost-effective food set coupons suitable for all customer groups, with savings of up to 50%, resulting in an excellent response. Currently, the McDonald’s coupon application has over 4.7 million downloaders.

  • Accelerating to Build Brand Love and Disrupt the Fried Chicken Market

‘McFried Chicken’ is a key growth driver for McDonald’s, achieving 33% growth last year through a proactive communication campaign. The campaign featured ‘DAOU x OFFROAD’, genuine McFried Chicken lovers, and effectively leveraged their fandom. In 2025, McDonald’s will build on this success with the concept ‘Crispy, Juicy, Tasty, and Big in Every Piece,’ and also bringing back ‘DAOU x OFFROAD’, who represent Gen Z-a generation that is value-seeking and craves new experiences. Building upon recent successes, McDonald’s Thailand plans to leverage festival-driven marketing campaigns to engage Gen Z. This strategic initiative aims to significantly expand the company’s target audience and drive a growth of over 15% in 2025.

  • Securing Our Leadership Position as Thailand’s No. 1 Burger Market Leader

McDonald’s stands out in the QSR market with its burger menu, consistently winning over customers for 40 years with the best products, great taste, and value for money. This includes legendary menus like the ‘Double Cheeseburger’, ‘Big Mac’, and ‘Quarter Pounder with Cheese’. The company also continuously develops new menus for customers to enjoy, including the ‘Prosperity Burger, an oblong-shaped burger, and the ‘Samurai Deluxe Burger’, an enhanced version of the all-time favorite ‘Samurai Burger’. This year, McDonald’s will continue to create new menus and exciting campaigns to energize the burger market and drive strong sales growth.

WIN WITH CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

  • Creating Employee Experience to Deliver Excellent Customer Service

One of the core elements of good customer service is ’employees’, who are essential intermediaries in creating positive feelings for customers towards the brand. Therefore, McDonald’s prioritizes creating happiness for employees in every dimension and strengthening the bond between employees and the organization for long-term sustainable success. This approach serves as a pathway to delivering positive brand experiences or “happy moments” to customers, ultimately creating maximum satisfaction and lasting impressions for our customers.

  • Go Beyond with Service Technology

McDonald’s is a leader in providing cutting-edge service experiences through technology to enhance customer convenience. This includes Table Service and Guest Experience Leaders, and assistants who serve customers within the store. Last year, Self-Ordering Kiosks were installed in all existing stores and the company aims to implement the Self-Ordering Kiosks in every new store opening this year to deliver a truly seamless customer service experience.

  • Expanding Stores Across Thailand with 3 Main Concepts

Currently, McDonald’s operates over 240 locations in Thailand. This year marks a golden opportunity for McDonald’s Thailand to accelerate the opening of new stores in prime locations to drive growth in line with the company’s goal and increase customer accessibility. The company has unveiled plans to open more than 20 new branches and renovate 25 existing branches under three main concepts: ‘Geometry’ – modern, contemporary, and vibrant; ‘Essential Ingredients 2.0’ – conveying the brand through pop art; and the ‘CUBE’ concept – expressing the brand through graphic artwork.

CREATE POSITIVE IMPACT TO COMMUNITY & ENVIRONMENT

  • ‘McHappy Smile’ Campaign to Bring Smiles and Happiness for Children and Youth

McDonald’s focuses on bringing smiles and creating happy moments for children and families, which are fundamental to society. The ongoing “McHappy Smile” campaign has successfully delivered joy to Thai children and youth through engaging activities featuring Ronald McDonald and friends, alongside the distribution of over 2,200 meals. The campaign has also received support from over 100 volunteer employees from the head office and restaurant staff. This year, the company will continue to carry on this campaign to deliver smiles and happiness to children and youth in various provinces across Thailand.

  • The Ronald McDonald House Charities Thailand

McDonald’s continues to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities Thailand, which has committed to providing and supporting sick children and their families for over 24 years. The foundation has 3 core projects under its care, including: 1. Ronald McDonald House,” which has helped more than 34,000 families of sick children by providing accommodation for families traveling from afar while their children receive treatment at four hospitals in Bangkok: Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health, Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, and Siriraj Hospital. 2. Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, partnered with ‘Good Health project’ under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri, provides dental care services to children in remote areas. To date, it has provided dental check-ups and treatment to over 56,000 children. 3. Ronald McDonald PlaPlayroom 40 locations, provide spaces for children to relax or engage in activities with their families while being hospitalized or waiting for medical appointments at public hospitals.

  • Aims for 100% of Sustainable Packaging by 2025

This is another significant step towards achieving McDonald’s goal of driving sustainable business operations and reducing environmental impact through biodegradable and environmentally friendly packaging and reducing plastic consumption. McDonald’s has begun transitioning to environmentally friendly packaging using paper materials certified by the Forest Stewardship Council(TM) (FSC), including burger wrapping paper, paper bags for food items, and paper sauce cups. In the second quarter of this year, the company will introduce paper boxes for rice menus, dipping sauces, and fried chicken boxes with lids, with the aim of achieving 100% sustainable packaging by 2025.

Let’s Celebrate McDonald’s 40th Anniversary in Thailand with the ’40th Fanniversary’ Campaign

McDonald’s Thailand invites everyone to celebrate 40 years of cherished memories with the “40th Fanniversary” campaign. The campaign will feature a series of surprise activities throughout 2025 as a gesture of gratitude to customers for their ongoing support. Details regarding the 40th anniversary celebrations and updated activities can be found at Facebook.com/McThai.

“Throughout 40 years of business operations in Thailand, we believe that McDonald’s has been more than just a restaurant, but a place where generations connect and create happy moments together. With the implementation of our key strategies, we are confident that McDonald’s Thailand will exceed its growth target of over 10% by 2025. We will also continue to develop excellent menus and services for our customers to reinforce our position as the leader in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) business in Thailand,” Ms. Kittiwan added.

Betagro Launches a New THB 297 Million High-tech, Eco-friendly Plant in Lampang Province to Bolster Supply Chain Stability

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Thursday 13 March 2025 – Betagro Public Company Limited (BTG), Thailand’s leading integrated food company, announces the official opening of its new 297-million-baht chicken processing plant on a 15-rai area in Lampang province, expanding its capacity to support the consistently rising demand for chicken meat in Thailand’s northern region, strengthen the food supply chain and elevates Thailand’s food industry standards.

Somsak Boonlarp, Chief Operating Officer – Livestock and Factory Operations of Betagro Public Company Limited (BTG), said “the Thai economy this year continues to recover, driven by the improvement in the tourism sector and private consumption. Given that consumers are increasingly seeking high-quality and safe protein sources, the demand for chicken meat is expected to grow stronger domestically. Betagro’s new plant, which began operations in March last year, aims to capitalize on this opportunity, with a production capacity of 50,000 birds per day, raising its total production capacity to 636,000.

By deploying Smart Machine & Utility technology, the new plant can monitor and control food production process in real time, ensuring quality and safety, and has achieved international standard certificates, such as Q-Mark and GMP. The plant has implemented integrated wastewater and waste management measures and harnesses clean energy from Solar Rooftop and Solar Carport, generating a total of 580kWh of electricity. Additionally, it has played a vital role in promoting the local economy by hiring 80% of the workforce from the community, supporting farmers through the guaranteed price program for broiler chickens, utilizing raw materials and local products to distribute income to the community.

“With cutting-edge technology, the plant enhances Betagro’s production capacity, elevates the overall standards of the food industry, functions as a green prototype plant, and contributes to supporting the community economy. We are committed to strengthening the food supply chain by fostering the growth of farmers, communities, and business partners, while sustainably driving the local economy and enhancing the industrial standards of Thai food,” said Mr Somsak.

Presently, Betagro operates a total of five chicken processing plants in Thailand. They are located in Lopburi, Samut Sakhon, Phatthalung, Mahasarakham, and Lampang province.

Layers of Spring UNIQLO U 2025 Spring/Summer Collection Launches March 21

By
Tan Heng Hong
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March 4, 2025, Kuala Lumpur – Global apparel retailer UNIQLO announces the launch of the Uniqlo U 2025 Spring/Summer collection, starting March 21st, with presales of some items beginning earlier. Co-Artistic Directors Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran, alongside their team in Paris designed the collection by taking a gentle and refreshing approach to the warmer months, with a focus on pastel colors and items for easy movement and comfort. New materials with a softer touch this season enhance a layered style, an essential factor in the Uniqlo U universe.

Fresh Pastel Colors

Soft pastels such as cream, yellow, grey, and white hint at the arrival of a new season. A pop purple color to accent the styling is incorporated into this season’s new Denim Bermuda Shorts and Shoulder Bag, giving a fresh impression.

Light Fabrics

With their modern designs, the SUPIMA Cotton Sheer Long T-shirt and the SUPIMA Cotton Oversized T-shirt allow for light, layered styles in summer. You can enjoy various styling impressions depending on the color combination.   

Utility Items 

The men’s Hooded Blouson and women’s Cotton Hooded Coat, both with adjustable hoods, have beautiful silhouettes that are impressive, and make for genderless items. The lineup of everyday items such as the practical, water-repellent Shoulder Bag and the UV Protection Hat ensure cozy and comfortable days.

Stylings 

Collection

The lineup includes 20 items for women, 20 items for men, and 3 items for accessories. However, the majority of the collection is designed to be genderless. 

Lineup and Pricing 

Items Prices (tax incl.) Items Prices (tax incl.)
Outerwear RM249.90 – RM499.90 Cut & Sewn items RM49.90 – RM149.90
Pants & Skirts  RM129.90 – RM179.90 Dresses RM149.90 – RM179.90
Shirts RM149.90 – RM179.90 Accessories RM129.90

Note: The above prices are provisional and subject to change

Special Website: 

25SS UNIQLO U Mens: https://www.uniqlo.com/my/en/men/special-collaboration/uniqlo-u 

25SS UNIQLO U Womens: https://www.uniqlo.com/my/en/women/special-collaboration/uniqlo-u

Celebrating 13 Years of Epic Shopping Savings on Lazada

By
Tan Heng Hong
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Epic rewards up for grabs during Epic Birthday Sale from 24 March (8pm) – 27 March

KUALA LUMPUR, 13 MARCH 2025 – This year, to celebrate its 13th anniversary as a pioneer eCommerce platform in Southeast Asia, Lazada is inviting shoppers in Malaysia to “break into” its Epic Birthday Vault. Packed with shopping vouchers, incredible savings, and amazing prizes to be won, the birthday vault is just one of many exciting surprises in store for shoppers during Lazada’s upcoming Epic Birthday Sale, which takes place from 24 March, 8pm to 27 March.

Epic birthday surprises bursting with rewards

From 19 to 27 March, shoppers can search for “Lazada Epic Birthday Surprise” on Google to access a special microsite, where they can “break” a digital hippo savings bank to reveal shopping vouchers worth up to RM100. These vouchers can be redeemed during the Epic Birthday Sale, starting 24 March at 8pm.

On top of getting Lazada vouchers, lucky shoppers will also receive an exclusive digital Lazzie card, which they can repost on TikTok and tag @Lazada_MY. 13 winners with the winning digital card will stand a chance to win prizes from a RM21,000 prize pool, with products from brands like Apple, Baseus, Dyson, Estee Lauder, La Mer, Laifen, Laneige, Logitech, Marshall, Ninja, SK-II, Sony, and Tefal to be won.

For an in-person experience, shoppers can also visit the Epic Birthday Vault at MyTOWN Shopping Centre, Kuala Lumpur on 22 March from 10am to 10pm. Shoppers can test their skill at “stealing” a hippo savings bank, with a chance to win a second-generation Apple Watch SE (GPS) and Lazada campaign vouchers. Those who participate on-ground will also get a physical Lazzie card, which they can post on social media to redeem freebies like ice cream cookies, Jipinhe Scones, and Kung Fu Tea beverages.

Shopping without breaking your bank

Lazada has plenty in store for shoppers during the Epic Birthday Sale, including campaign vouchers worth up to RM1,000 off, branded deals with discounts of up to 90%, and platform-wide Semua Free Shipping. There are even guaranteed 50% price cuts on selected products, with big savings on Poco smartphones, premium bedding from Jean Perry and AKEMI, gaming headphones, mobile accessories, and much more.

Those who are fasting can also look forward to Sahur and Moreh Deals, available exclusively during Ramadan – with bargains on snacks from Signature Market, multivitamin gummies from Mulittea, nutritious goat milk, and Safawi dates among others. Shoppers can look out for these deals at Sahur (3-8am) and Moreh (8pm to 12am).

For even greater savings, shoppers can also use their LazCoins to enjoy additional savings of up to 60% off. Best of all, campaign and store vouchers, free shipping, LazCoins, and LazCash can be stacked, allowing shoppers to maximise their savings before checkout.

For more savings on Lazada, stack all your vouchers, free shipping, and LazCoins

To celebrate its milestone birthday, Lazada is unveiling RM27 All Out Deals with over RM40,000 worth of limited-time deals up for grabs. Shoppers can score these incredible offers daily from 25 to 27 March at 12am, 8am, 3pm, and 9pm — but only while stocks last.

Brands featured under the RM27 All Out Deals include Beacon, Bose, Chow Sang Sang, Cricut, DDPAI, Ecovacs, Getha, GOOJODOQ, GTGAMEZ, Habib, Honor, JBL, KAPAS, KitchenZ, Kormaz, Kun, Levoit, Marshall, SAMEL, Tineco, TP-Link, TTRacing, and UGREEN. With an exciting lineup of top brands, shoppers can look forward to unbeatable RM27 steals on a wide range of products, including luxury jewellery, premium audio devices, smart home essentials, gaming gear, and others.

Shoppers can also earn LazCash by simply typing “LazzieChatHunt” into Message+, with a chance to win up to RM150.

Shoppers can earn up to RM150 in LazCash by typing into LazzieChatHunt into Message+

Lazada’s 13th anniversary marks more than just a milestone – it reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering consumers the best prices and experiences, with a dedication to being Always the Better Platform. With the Epic Birthday Sale just around the corner, shoppers can mark their calendars, add to cart, and get ready to spend without breaking their bank.

For more details on the sale, check out the Lazada App or follow #LazadaEpicBirthdaySurprise and #LazadaMY on social media for the latest updates!

SPX Express Nurtures Talent and Growth for Women in Logistics

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

KUALA LUMPUR, 12 March 2025 – Women are making remarkable strides in Malaysia’s logistics industry, and SPX Express (SPX) is leading the way in fostering an inclusive workplace where talent and dedication define success. From managing last-mile hubs to ensuring workplace safety and even driving lorries, SPX is committed to providing equal opportunities for women to excel in logistics.

Nur Hidayah Tapri: Driving Leadership in Last-Mile Operations

For Nur Hidayah Tapri, 42, stepping into the logistics industry at 27 years old was more than just a career move, it was a challenge to prove that leadership comes from expertise and experience. As Last Mile Area Manager in the Terengganu region, she quickly learned that earning trust required mastering every aspect of the job, from route planning and fleet management to warehouse operations and customer service.

“In my early years, I made it a point to learn everything, even areas beyond my role, so that I could lead with confidence and make informed decisions,” she shares. This dedication to continuous learning has allowed her to implement more efficient workflows, improve on-time delivery rates, and enhance customer satisfaction. Today, she oversees five last-mile hubs across Terengganu, ensuring seamless delivery operations while mentoring and developing female leaders within SPX.

“At SPX, I’ve grown into a leadership role with the right training and support, and now I’m committed to helping others do the same,” she shares. With a strong team of hub leads under her guidance, she actively supports and mentors her colleagues, fostering an environment where all members can develop their skills and advance with confidence.

Norasmawani Mohd Napiah: Pioneering Workplace Safety

As Senior Associate for Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) at East Coast region, Norasmawani Binti Mohd Napiah, 33, is on a mission to ensure SPX operates at the highest safety standards.

She is responsible for implementing safety protocols across 34 premises in the East Coast region, ensuring that workplace hazards are minimised and each site adheres to the highest level of safety compliance.

Norasmawani also plays a key role in training employees on workplace safety, accident prevention, and emergency response protocols. Through regular site audits and risk assessments, she identifies potential hazards before they become issues, ensuring a safer work environment for all SPX employees.

Despite lingering misconceptions about women in safety roles, she is determined to challenge stereotypes. “Women are often seen as being too emotional in decision-making, but we have proven time and again that we are just as strong, decisive, and effective as our male counterparts,” she says. She is particularly proud of the growing number of women in key roles at SPX, stating, “At SPX, gender is not a barrier to leadership—what matters is skill, dedication, and expertise.”

Nor Ariesa Ramli: Redefining Frontline Logistics

Nor Ariesa Ramli, 43, is making her mark on the frontlines of logistics as a skilled lorry driver, challenging industry norms with 13 years of experience behind the wheel. As the only female driver in her team, she has proven that women can thrive in roles traditionally dominated by men, delivering excellence with precision and professionalism.

“Some customers are surprised when they see me behind the wheel,” she says with a smile. “They don’t expect a woman to be handling deliveries, but I take it as a compliment because it means I’m showing them that women belong in this field too.”

At SPX Bukit Raja, Ariesa has found a structured and supportive workplace. Even as a driver employed by a partner agency, she takes pride in working with a company like SPX that sets high standards for its driver partners. “The requirements to work here are strict, so being here means I’ve earned my place,” she says. She passionately encourages more women to explore careers in logistics, emphasizing that the industry offers rewarding opportunities for those ready to step forward. “There’s a place for you here—believe in yourself, be confident, and stay open to learning,” she assures.

SPX’s Commitment to an Inclusive Workforce Across Its Ecosystem

As more women like Hidayah, Norasmawani, and Ariesa step on to chart their own paths in logistics, SPX remains committed to fostering a workplace where talent and dedication drive success. Cheah Lee Sun, Head of SPX Express, highlights that the company’s efforts to hire, retain, and promote women are not just about representation, they are about building a stronger, more dynamic workforce.

“At SPX, we believe in empowering individuals at every level of logistics, from operations to compliance and frontline delivery. We are actively ensuring that opportunities are open to everyone through structured training, career progression, and a supportive work environment,” she shares.

Since 2021, SPX has seen a steady rise in female participation across the industry, with the proportion of women couriers more than doubling from last year to 29%, while female sorters have increased by 10% over the same period. More women are also stepping into leadership roles, such as hub leads, shift supervisors, and area managers. The company champions internal promotions, ensuring that all employees, regardless of their background, have equal opportunities for career growth through structured training programs and mentorship initiatives.

Cheah Lee Sun affirms that SPX’s commitment to diversity is about creating meaningful impact. “Our workforce is built on skill, dedication, and teamwork. Women at SPX are thriving in leadership, technical, and operational roles, working alongside their peers to drive innovation in logistics,” she says. By fostering an environment where everyone can excel, SPX continues to set new benchmarks for inclusivity, ensuring that the best talent continues to shape the future of logistics.

About SPX Express

SPX Express offers reliable and cost-effective delivery services across Southeast Asia, supporting SMEs, brands, and sellers. In Malaysia, it operates a nationwide network of delivery centers across 130 hubs. SPX Express continues to innovate its services, introduce new technologies, and develop local talent to serve customers better in the country. https://spx.com.my/

Southeast Asia’s E-Commerce to Reach New Heights, Driven by Digital Payments and Cross-Border Commerce Growth

By
Tan Heng Hong
-

Singapore, 11 March 2025 – The latest report by market intelligence firm IDC, commissioned by global payments platform 2C2P and Antom, revealed Southeast Asia’s (SEA’s) ecommerce market is projected to reach US$325 billion by 2028, fuelled by the rapid adoption of digital payments and regional interoperability, unlocking more opportunities in cross-border commerce for businesses. 

This year’s report, “How Southeast Asia Buys and Pays 2025”, marks the fourth edition of the IDC InfoBrief since 2021. The report surveyed 600 respondents across six Southeast Asia (SEA) markets – Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, examining the evolving digital payments landscape as a whole and in each market. As the fifth largest economy in the world, SEA’s exceptional growth trajectory is largely driven by its rapidly expanding e-commerce sector, underpinned by increasing digital payment adoption.

The report explores the region’s evolving digital payments landscape and provides a market-specific analysis of the payment trends in each market. It also sheds light on how these trends are reshaping business strategies and laying the foundation for future growth opportunities in the region.

Key highlights from the report:

It is critical to have a comprehensive understanding of SEA’s digital payment landscape to fully tap into this US$325b economy. To maximise reach within local markets, it is essential to offer customers their preferred payment methods to enhance the overall customer experience and drive higher conversion rates. 

  • Growth in ecommerce digital payments: By 2028, digital payments are expected to account for 94% of total e-commerce payments in Southeast Asia. The most significant growth can be seen in domestic payments (97.9%) and mobile wallets (94.9%), which have been instrumental in expanding the reach of ecommerce in regions that traditionally relied less on cards.
  • Surge in Real-time payments (RTPs): RTPs will see an exponential growth in 2028, reaching over US$11 trillion. This is already evident in Singapore, where RTPs like PayNow are the third most supported payment methods according to surveyed merchants in 2024. The rise in RTPs in Southeast Asia is largely driven by government initiatives to reduce cash reliance and to promote lower-cost, fast payment methods which meet the needs of both consumers and merchants. 
  • Dominance of Mobile Wallets and Domestic Payments: Mobile wallets and domestic payments lead in popularity across Southeast Asia. In 2023, mobile wallets were the top choice in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, while domestic payments dominated in Singapore and Thailand. This trend continued in 2024, with mobile wallets being the second most accepted payment method by surveyed merchants in Singapore and Philippines and the third in Indonesia and Thailand.
  • There are also significant opportunities across SEA in intra-SEA cross border commerce. 
  • Opportunities in cross-border commerce: Intra-SEA cross-border commerce is projected to reach $14.6 billion by 2028, a 2.8 times growth from 2023. Notably, except for Vietnam and Indonesia, average cross-border transaction values per customer surpass domestic values in SEA markets, highlighting significant opportunities for businesses operating in the region. 
  • Driving cross-border commerce with Regional Payment Connectivity (RPC): Cross-border commerce is further supported by initiatives such as the RPC, joined by all six markets in the SEA region. The collaboration aims to strengthen and streamline inter-country payments, focusing on the development of seamless, efficient, and cost-effective cross-border transactions.
  • Higher returns in cross-border commerce: For 62% of surveyed SEA merchants who sold their services and products across borders, such transactions were, on average, 21% higher than domestic transactions. Merchants stand to reap significant rewards by looking beyond their shores and building up their capacity to cater to neighbouring markets.
  • Untapped potential of intra-SEA trade: Despite its promising growth, intra-SEA trade remains underutilised, accounting for only a small fraction of total cross-border commerce in each market. To fully capitalise on this, merchants must gain a deeper understanding of the distinctive operating environments in each market while leveraging shared advantages. By strategically addressing these factors, businesses can unlock the full potential of intra-regional trade and drive sustainable growth.

Agnes Chua, Managing Director of Business and Product Development of 2C2P, stated, “Southeast Asia’s e-commerce landscape is evolving at a breathtaking pace. Merchants recognise the immense opportunities this growth brings them in driving e-commerce revenue, but also acknowledge the increasing complexity it brings to their operations. This includes common challenges such as customer support and issue resolution, payment gateway integration and technology issues. At 2C2P, we empower businesses to navigate these challenges with confidence by delivering payment solutions that simplify operations, enhance cross-border capabilities, and drive growth in the region’s rapidly expanding digital economy so merchants can quickly unlock new opportunities and thrive in this dynamic environment.”

Gary Liu, General Manager of Antom, Ant International, said, “Southeast Asia is rapidly emerging as a global hub for digital commerce and innovation. As businesses expand across borders, seamless and efficient transactions are essential for maintaining competitiveness. At Antom, we see payments not just as infrastructure but as a catalyst for business growth. By working with 2C2P and other businesses within Ant International’s ecosystem, we empower merchants with unified payment and digitisation solutions covering the full payment lifecycle while also exploring opportunities in global account services, financing, and treasury management to further support their expansion. Through close collaboration with local regulators and industry partners, we aim to unlock new opportunities for businesses of all sizes, helping them thrive in Southeast Asia’s evolving digital economy.”

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