Etika and MBO Cinemas sign partnership to be only cinema chain in Malaysia offering consumers refreshing Pepsi beverages
KUALA LUMPUR, 14 February 2022 – Bringing consumers delight as they once again start enjoying the movie theatre experience, Etika Sdn Bhd (“Etika”), one of Malaysia’s leading halal beverage manufacturers has signed a partnership with MBO Cinemas on 5th January 2022. Meant to perfectly complement one’s buttery popcorn, consumers will now be able to excite their taste buds with chilled beverages Etika has to offer, each time they go to MBO Cinemas.
The partnership will entail MBO Cinemas to be the only movie theatre chain in the country to offer consumers Etika products as a choice of beverage. The strategic partnership allows consumers to be able to indulge in drinks like Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7UP, Mirinda, Lipton Ice Tea as well as options like Pepsi Black, a zero-calorie product without compromising on the bold cola taste, as long as they visit MBO Cinemas. With this partnership in place, consumers can enjoy their favourite Marvel or Will Smith movie in the company of their favourite beverages and snacks.
“At Etika, we are always looking to offer our consumers experiences that they can thoroughly enjoy and our partnership with MBO Cinemas allows us to do just that. With the pandemic, many of us have missed going to the cinema with friends and enjoying popcorn and refreshing drinks while we immerse ourselves with our favourite on-screen characters. Through this partnership, we hope we are able to bring more value to our customers and make this experience more memorable for them,” said Yee Pek Kuan, Vice President of Marketing at Etika Sdn. Bhd.
With this partnership in place, Etika’s refreshing beverages will be placed in 8 outlets of MBO Cinemas across the country, allowing Etika to strengthen its national footprint and continue to lead in the FMCG sector.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick your movie nights at an MBO cinema near you and enjoy a chilled movie with your favourite Etika beverages!
ATLAS Vending (M) Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Etika Group of Companies, has collaborated with FWD Insurance to sell its FWD takaful plans through vending machines. The partnership demonstrates that ATLAS Vending is not just a vending machine operator selling food and drinks but also a business enabler.
The collaboration aims to promote insurance to more people by imparting the message that insurance can be as cheap as a beverage. QR codes are attached to the cans so that people can learn more and sign up for the plan to protect themselves and their family members.
We are seeing ATLAS Vending leveraging on its vast vending machine network to help brands reach out to their target audience creatively and cost effectively.
McDonald’s Malaysia has given a classic menu a spicy sesame twist with the launch of Spicy Sesame McChicken.
For those who love the Classic. The Spicy Sesame McChicken lets you discover even more of the familiar delight that will leave you satisfied. Simple and delicious, now with an extra kick.
PT. Ultra Prima Abadi, which owns the Tango wafer brand in Indonesia, has partnered with Ruangguru, a startup on helping students understanding school curriculums as well as helping with exams.
Tango Wafer Renyah comes with a special disount voucher. Students can use the discount code when accessing Ruangguru’s services.
The collaboration fits nicely with the needs of Tango’s young target audience who is increasingly learning online during the pandemic.
In the Philippines, Macau Imperial Tea has teamed up with local chocolate brand Auro Chocolate to launch the Auro Series for this year’s Valentine’s Day. The premium flavours are the Auro Hot Dark Chocolate, Auro Iced Dark Chocolate, and Cream Cheese Auro Dark Chocolate.
The drinks feature Macao Imperial Tea’s signature milk tea and Auro’s popular dark chocolate.
The Auro Series will be available starting February 3, 2022, across Macao Imperial Tea outlets nationwide.
The start of this year has been filled with unpredictable weather. With it raining one day and shining the next, it can lead to us falling ill easily. Hence, POKKA is here to brave you through this season! Packed with natural antioxidants from tea polyphenols, your body will be fueled against this weather, Rain or Shine!
Tackling the ColdÂ
POKKA has recommended these two drinks to keep you warm. Their Hojicha Japanese Tea and Oolong Tea are brewed with fresh tea leaves to provide that robust flavour. Hojicha Japanese Tea is suitable for consumption during the day or even night. If you are one who enjoys the strong roasted flavour, Oolong Tea will work well for you! Pour the drink into a cup and microwave it to enjoy a hot POKKA beverage. You can even prepare one beforehand to bring into the office so you will not freeze under the air-conditioner. Thank us later!
Fighting against the Heat
To quench your thirst in Singapore’s heat, enjoy POKKA’s Jasmine Green Tea. It is brewed from authentic premium green tea leaves, leaving you with a light and refreshing drink! There is no sugar added into this drink hence, you can enjoy it without worrying about packing on the extra pounds of sugar into your diet. POKKA also has their newest creation, Peach Oolong Tea that comes in a vibrant packaging. To lift your spirits and cool yourself, grab a can that is brewed from premium Oolong tea leaves and fresh peach juice. Pop some ice and feel 10 times more refreshed with this aromatic peach infused Oolong tea that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
POKKA has launched their Festive Pack for this special season until the end of February. Grab your drinks while stocks last! They are currently running an exclusive promotion until 28th February 2022 where attractive goodies and vouchers can be won if you spend a minimum of $8 on any POKKA products. So be sure to quickly stock up on your essential POKKA drinks for the coming months!
Visit www.pokka.co for more information, and their socials for the latest updates.
Want to feel a tad bit special? Go for the Petits Plats, the Chef’s Tasting Menu. Enjoy your bougie moment at Aether House with a personalised assortment of French dishes, ranging from three to five dishes. While you are at it, go all out by ordering a glass of wine to go with your plats français.
Now that you have your tummies satisfied, it’s time to do some shopping!
Christine Ferber Jams
Aether House is proud to present Christine Ferber Jams, one of the best jams in the world! With the most extensive collection in Singapore, have a fancy breakfast or tea break when you spread these fruity and premium quality jams on your preferred bread or crackers. Have a taste, and you will know why we absolutely adore these jams! These jams are freshly produced in Ferber’s small kitchen in the village of Niedermorschwihr, nestled in the heart of the vineyards in Alsace. Not only are these freshly made, but the availability of these jams also varies season by season.
Secure a table via https://www.aetherhouse.sg/ to enjoy quality French fare, at an affordable pricing, at Aether House.
Valentine’s day does create a certain panic for some, rushing to plan special activities and gifts for their significant other. Flowers, chocolates, jewellery and all the other gooey romantic stuff are pretty good choices, but you can’t go wrong with a good old-fashioned date, sharing stories while sipping on some quality tea.
Here is the story of the 500-day process that goes into making a cup of tea at The Alley:
Carefully selected tea leaves
Your valentine deserves tea leaves that have been carefully selected down to the last leaf. The Alley’s tea leaves go through a harvesting process where the tea leaves are attentively selected, processed and then aged to ensure the tea that is later roasted with other ingredients are of top quality.
With this, each cup will have its own determined aroma and taste to give you and your date satisfaction in every sip as you enjoy a delightful conversation this Valentine’s Day.
In-house made sugar cane syrup
The Alley doesn’t use any regular sugar in their drinks. They use their very own in-house made syrup made from sugar cane.
The sugar cane syrup is made from natural, high quality sugar cane. The sugar cane is then boiled in-house and added to the beverages which creates an original flavour to The Alley beverages. The sugar cane syrup provides a delicate sweetness to the beverages and isn’t too overpowering so you taste the right amount of sweetness to enhance the aromatic and quality taste of the tea.
Freshly handcrafted tapioca boba
The Alley doesn’t just pride themselves on their in house made sugar cane, but also their special handcrafted tapioca boba which they call deerioca.
The Alley freshly makes this nationwide loved and most popular milk tea topping from scratch. They make the dough and take their time kneading the dough before rolling them into small boba balls. This provides a better texture and aroma to suit your boba needs.
With the amount of effort that goes into making The Alley drinks, they certainly are dessert drinks worth giving your loved ones this Valentine’s Day.
Lovers should have a taste of The Alley’s Royal No. 9 Milk Tea which is a fan-favourite worth trying. The Royal No. 9 milk tea is made from Sri Lankan black tea leaves, infused with roasted blueberries for that subtle fruity blueberry taste and finally topped off with milk. It may just be the perfect beverage for you to enjoy with your significant other this Valentine’s Day.
To find out more about The Alley’s events and promotions, do follow The Alley Malaysia’s Facebook page as well as Instagram at @thealley.my.
Kuala Lumpur, 09 February 2022 – Revel in the season of love with a plethora of romantic dining options and specially curated set menus at Marriott Bonvoy Hotels and Resorts in Malaysia. Whether you are looking for a classic celebration or an intimate dinner, Marriott Bonvoy Hotels and Resorts has plenty of ways for you to express your love.
Make your Valentine’s Day dining reservation at the participating Marriott Bonvoy Hotels and Resorts in Malaysia below:Â
Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah
Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah
Escape to an island paradise with a sassy twist this Valentine’s Day, and admire Langkawi’s stunning sunset when you treat your partner to a delicious 4-course meal at Nook, with guests able to pick their choice of main course. Highlights of the day include Truffle Polenta, Prawn Mousse-Crusted Salmon Fillet, Lamb Shank, and Rose Crème Brulee. Available only on 14 February 2022, from 6pm to 10pm, Nook’s 4-course meal price starts from RM114/person.
For reservations or more information, please WhatsApp +6012 941 1745 / +6012 204 2252.Â
Element Kuala Lumpur
Element Kuala Lumpur
Woo your date this Valentine’s Day with a high altitude dining experience at TRACE Restaurant and Bar, complemented with sweeping panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur Skyline. Indulge in a 5-course dinner that sings L-O-V-E. Kick off the romance with a serving of seafood platter, followed by Smoked Salmon Rose with Crab Avocado Mango Salsa. Guests can choose the main course of their liking from Smokey BBQ Beef Ribs on Roasted Butternut Mash, Pan Seared Cod Fish with Polenta Cake or Charcoal Coated Lamb Rack with Potato Dauphinoise. End the night with a Minty Peppermint Mousse and Blueberry Lavender Gelato. Available only on 14 February 2022, from 6pm to 10pm, the Valentine’s Day 5-course set menu is priced at RM368nett per couple.
For reservations or more information, please call +603 2263 7888, WhatsApp wa.link/6mtpog or email dining.reservation@lemeridien.com.Â
The St. Regis Langkawi
The St. Regis Langkawi
Find the perfect way to spoil your Valentine over a candlelight dinner at the much-anticipated dining venue, Kayuputi at The St. Regis Langkawi. Start your evening with an Aperitif whilst witnessing one of the most magical sunsets on the island, and continue with an indulgence in an exquisite 6-course menu specially crafted by Executive Chef Mandy Goh. The restaurant’s cosy ambience accompanied by romantic tunes with stunning views of the Andaman Sea will have you fall head over heels as you reminisce about your love story. Available on 11, 12 and 14 February 2022, the 6-course menu at Kayuputi is priced at RM1,400.00nett per couple (food only), and RM1,750.00nett per couple inclusive of 1 bottle of Taittinger.
Prefer a night under the stars? Set amidst the tropical foliage of the Langkawi’s rainforest overlooking the Andaman Sea, the resort’s romantic yet chic restaurant, Pantai Grill promises an evening of indulgence and romance. Experience a romantic evening as you watch the sun dip below the horizon while sipping on your favourite beverages. When night falls, impress your special someone with a one-of-its-kind dining affair under the stars with an exquisite selection of succulent grilled seafood and meat as well as a scrumptious selection of sweet endings. This charming beachfront restaurant offers a refined and romantic setting that will elevate your Valentine’s Day celebration in every possible way and sweep that special someone off their feet all over again. Available only on 14 February 2022, the Valentine’s Day sharing course menu at Pantai Grill is priced at RM700.00nett per couple and RM1,400.00nett for 4 guests (food only). For those looking to pair their meal with a glass of Champagne, the Valentine’s Day sharing course menu is priced RM1,050.00nett per couple and RM1,750.00nett for 4 guests inclusive of 1 bottle of Taittinger.
Celebrate the most romantic month of the year in splendour at The Westin Desaru Coast Resort’s, Prego. Spend the night reminiscing with your loved one over a specially curated 3-course set dinner, starting with a Salmon Tatare then followed by a choice of Roasted Black Cod or a Spicy Beef Petite Tenderloin. End the night with a sweet touch, Cheek to Cheek, a Strawberry Tart with Strawberry Coulis, topped with White Chocolate Raspberry Gelato. Available only on 14 February 2022, Prego’s 4-Course Dinner Buffet is priced at RM280+ without beverage package and RM360+ with beverage package. Beverage package includes Sparling, Red and White Wine.
For reservations or more information, please call +607 838 3333, WhatsApp +6019 755 0283.
Love is in the air and cybercriminals can smell it, too.
As the world celebrates another Valentine’s Day, Kaspersky today explores the risks wrapped in finding relationships online, the possible toll it can incur monetarily, and how users can keep their hearts and finances safe from romance scammers on the internet.
Romance scams are on the rise since 2020, when the pandemic first hit the world. With limited physical movements, the internet, particularly social media platforms, have provided a critical connection for people. Kaspersky’s own research finds that more than half (53%) of social media users around the world have used social networks more during local and national lockdowns than before.
The same research also revealed 18% of the 1,007 adults surveyed to represent Southeast Asia (SEA) use social media mainly to find romance and majority (76%) confirms that social media has provided them a vital connection during the global health emergency.
In addition, close to a quarter (24%) of the respondents from SEA said that they have formed real-life, in-person friendships with people met initially on social media while another 18% admitted that they dated someone they’ve met in these platforms.
This blossoming way of finding a partner, however, also comes with emotional and financial risks.
For instance, in 2021, law enforcement agencies from Singapore and Malaysia worked together to track down a group specialising in romance scams. The syndicate was allegedly behind at least eight scams in both countries, including the case of a 41-year-old Singaporean woman which ended up losing a total of $28,000.
Most of the incidents here only cost less than 100 USD (22%). However, it is worth noting that the victim’s age and the possible cost of a romance scam seems to be overlapping.
With losses amounting to less than 100 USD, the two oldest generations (Baby Boomer and Silent Generation) logged the highest percentage, both at 33%.
The most senior age group, on the other hand, lost the most with nearly two in five of them admitting to losing 5,000-10,000 USD from love scams online.
Lastly, a small portion (8%) of Gen Z said cybercriminals have incurred them more than 10,000 USD from romance-related threats.
Chris Connell, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky
“When we we’re younger, we tend to be more curious and a bit more reckless. When we become older, we have a lot of time in our hands and, usually, retirement funds in our bank accounts. Cybercriminals know these realities as well as our human tendencies to be lonely and crave for company when forced to be alone inside our houses,” says Chris Connell, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky.
“However, the cases we’ve seen lately should serve us a reminder for us to keep our minds “on” even as we listen to our hearts. Because nothing is more painful than having a fake lover and an empty wallet, we urge everyone from all ages to remain vigilant and be better in discerning the authenticity of the relationships we are building online and offline,” he adds.
Regardless of platform or app, warning signs of online dating scams include:
Demonstration of strong emotions in a very short time.
A quick move from dating sites or apps into private channels.
The scammer asks you a lot of questions about yourself. This is because the more they know about you, the easier you will be to manipulate.
Their story is inconsistent. Scammers sometimes operate in teams, with different people hiding behind one identity. So, if the person you’re talking to seems inconsistent, be suspicious.
They don’t have a digital footprint. Whilst some people don’t use social media and try to minimize the amount of personal information about them on the internet, it can be suspicious if you can’t find any trace of a person online.
No video calls or face-to-face meeting. People who are scammed generally report that the other person made constant excuses to avoid going on camera. The obvious reason is that they don’t look like the person in their profile picture. They also want to avoid being identified to prevent being tracked down afterwards.
Requests for money based on personal hardship—for example, for a sick relative or a failed business.
How to avoid online dating scams
Avoiding romance scams means carefully scrutinizing any online relationship that develops too fast. Here are some more ways to keep your heart and wallet safe:
When using social media sites, don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know.
Avoid revealing too much personal information in a dating profile or to someone you’ve chatted with only online.
Take things slowly. Ask your potential partner questions and watch out for inconsistencies that might reveal an impostor.
Use reputable dating sites and keep communicating through their messaging service. Fraudsters will want you to switch to text, social media or phone quickly, so there is no evidence on the dating site of them asking you for money.
Take things slowly. Ask your potential partner questions and watch out for inconsistencies that might reveal an impostor.
Never give money to someone unless you also have a relationship with them offline.
If you do make a date with someone outside of cyberspace, be sure to let people in your life know where you’ll be, to be on the safe side.
The Kaspersky “Mapping a digitally secure path for the future of payments in APAC” report studies our interactions with online payments. It also examines our attitudes towards them, which hold the key to understanding the factors that will further drive or stem the adoption of this technology. The study was conducted by research agency YouGov in key territories in APAC, including Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam (10 countries). Survey responses were gathered in July 2021 with a total of 1,618 respondents surveyed across the stated countries.
The respondents ranged from 18-65 years of age, all of which are working professionals who are digital payment users.
Through this study, when the behavior of the population of a market is generalised, it is in reference to the group of respondents sampled above.
Click here to purchase Kaspersky solution on Shopee Malaysia.
Introducing the Next Evolution—Align No LineTM
SINGAPORE, MAY 14, 2025 — lululemon proudly marks the 10th anniversary of its groundbreaking AlignTM franchise, a collection that redefined comfort, freedom...