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RAS Epicurean Star Award celebrates 30 years of culinary excellence and innovation

  • Five new award categories reflect Singapore’s ever-evolving palate and culinary creativity at the nation’s leading F&B awards
  • Singapore Food Agency’s Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme honours businesses championing local produce and sustainability in dining

22 October 2025, Singapore  –  The RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025, organised by the Restaurant Association of Singapore (RAS), marked a milestone 30th anniversary celebration this evening, honouring Singapore’s vibrant Food & Beverage industry from visionary restaurateurs and chefs to the dedicated service professionals shaping the nation’s dining landscape.  

RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025 – KopiTalk Fireside Chat: Senior Minister of State Low Yen Ling and Benjamin Boh, RAS, President

Held at the iconic Marina Bay Sands Singapore, Expo and Convention Centre, the gala dinner and awards presentation was graced by Guest of Honour, Ms Low Yen Ling, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry, and Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth 

Attended by over 1,000 guests, including senior representatives from leading restaurant groups, suppliers, partners, and culinary professionals, the gala dinner served as a grand tribute to the collective passion of Singapore’s F&B industry. The evening also featured an on-stage dialogue between Guest of Honour, Senior Minister of State Ms Low, and Mr Benjamin Boh, President of RAS, which focused on the current challenges faced by the industry and tangible solutions and support systems.  

Honouring Innovation, Craftsmanship, and Culinary Passion 

Now in its 30th year, the RAS Epicurean Star Award remains Singapore’s hallmark celebration of restaurant and foodservice excellence. It recognises outstanding establishments and individuals who have elevated the art of dining and set new standards for innovation, quality, and hospitality in the industry. 

This year, the Award received a record 286 nominations from 175 F&B establishments across 21 categories, a strong testament to the resilience and dynamism of Singapore’s F&B sector.  

Five New Categories Reflect Singapore’s Ever-Evolving Palate

In response to the dynamic shifts in the nation’s culinary landscape, the RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025 introduced five new categories that highlight Singapore’s constantly evolving dining culture and consumer trends:  

1.     Grab Digital Excellence Award 2025 – celebrating the creativity and cultural influence of Singapore’s bubble tea brands.

2.     Best Eastern Asian Restaurant – recognising authentic yet innovative East Asian dining experiences.

3.     Best Fast Food – spotlighting brands redefining quick dining through quality and health-consciousness.

4.     Best Kiosk – honouring compact concepts that showcase creativity, efficiency, and impact.

5.     Best Customer Service Awards – across Casual Dining and Fine Dining, recognising service excellence and the unsung heroes of the F&B industry. 

Theme: Back to the Foodture 

Under the theme ‘Back to the Foodture’, this year’s celebration paid tribute to Singapore’s culinary traditions while looking ahead to a future shaped by creativity, sustainability, and innovation. The Awards night also featured a special gala menu inspired by Unilever’s Future Food Trends – Borderless Cuisine, Culinary Roots, Diner Design, and Street Food Couture, reflecting the four elements of Fire, Water, Air, and Earth. 

Collaboratively curated by chefs from Unilever, RISE, Restaurant Fiz, and Marina Bay Sands, the menu embodied the Award’s ethos – celebrating a food future rooted in imagination and mindful consumption.  

According to Mr Benjamin Boh, President of the Restaurant Association of Singapore, “This 30th-anniversary milestone is not just a celebration of excellence, but of evolution. Singapore’s F&B scene has transformed tremendously over the past three decades – from traditional eateries to boundary-pushing innovations that now define global trends. The RAS Epicurean Star Award continues to honour this spirit of progress – celebrating the people and businesses that drive our culinary culture forward while upholding the heart of hospitality.”

Recognising Local Support: Singapore Food Agency’s Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme 

A special highlight at this year’s RAS Epicurean Star Award is the Singapore Food Agency’s (SFA) Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme (FTTRP), which recognises the industry’s unwavering commitment to local sourcing and sustainability. The programme recognises food businesses in the HoReCa sector – hotels, restaurants, and caterers – that demonstrate dedication to incorporating locally farmed produce into their menus. 

Launched in March 2023 by SFA, in partnership with the Restaurant Association of Singapore (RAS), the Association of Catering Professionals Singapore (ACAPS), and the Singapore Hotel Association (SHA), the Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme (FTTRP) aims to raise awareness and increase demand for local produce among businesses and consumers. By encouraging more sustainable practices, the FTTRP helps the industry reduce its food miles and use fresher produce, contributing to Singapore’s vision for a food resilient future.

This year marks SFA’s 4th FTTRP award ceremony, where businesses were recognised for their unwavering commitment to supporting local produce. Their dedication plays an important role in strengthening Singapore’s food resilience.  

SFA invites and welcomes more food businesses to join this meaningful FTTRP journey, where we can collectively support our local farms, promote local produce and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable food future for Singapore. 

RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025 – Best Customer Service (Casual Dining): GRIGLIA KATONG -WINNER
RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025 – Best Fast Food Restaurant: MOS BURGER – Winner

RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025 – Award Categories & Winners

No. Categories Winner Runner-up
1 Best Newcomer Restaurant 54 STEAKHOUSE CHERRY GARDEN BY CHEF FEI
2 Best Eastern Asian Restaurant (NEW) XIANG XIANG HUNAN CUISINE KOMA SINGAPORE
3 Best Fast Food Restaurant (NEW) MOS BURGER GUZMAN Y GOMEZ
4 Best Kiosk (NEW) WOK HEY ORIGIN & BLOOM
5 Best Brunch Restaurant EDGE, PAN PACIFIC SINGAPORE SUSHISAMBA SINGAPORE
6 Best Chain Restaurant XIANG XIANG HUNAN CUISINE DIAN XIAO ER
7 Best Customer Service (NEW)

(1) Casual Dining

(2) Fine Dining

GRIGLIA KATONG

VUE BAR & GRILL

54 STEAKHOUSE

ESTIATORIO MILOS

8 Best European Restaurant ALTRO ZAFFERANO GRIGLIA CRAIG ROAD
9 Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant RESTAURANT FIZ OUMI
10 Best Fast Casual Restaurant ALTRO ZAFFERANO ASTONS PRIME
11 Best Fusion Restaurant QIN RESTAURANT & BAR KAARLA WOOD-FIRE GRILL AND BAR
12 Best Halal (1) Buffet Restaurant (2) Restaurant GINGER

GINGER

PERMATA SINGAPORE

MUTIARA SEAFOOD BY JUMBO GROUP

13 Best High Tea Restaurant THE MANDARIN CAKE SHOP THE LOBBY LOUNGE,
RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025 – Best Chain Restaurant: DIAN XIAO ER – Runner Up
RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025 – Best Brunch Restaurant: EDGE, PAN PACIFIC SINGAPORE – Winner
RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025 – Best Eastern Asian Restaurant: XIANG XIANG HUNAN CUISINE – Winner

Singapore Food Agency’s Farm-to-Table Recognition Programme – Award Categories & Winners

No. Company Award Tier
1 Coriander Leaf Pte Ltd Highest
2 Mandai Wildlife Group Highest
3 Rise Restaurant, Marina Bay Sands Highest
4 The Summerhouse (Botanico) Highest
5 1 Spring Pte Ltd (Kaarla) Highest
6 1 Spring Pte Ltd (OUMI) Highest
7 Amici Events & Catering Pte Ltd Mid
8 Crowne Plaza Changi Airport Mid
9 Joy Of Fish Pte Ltd Mid
10 M Social Singapore Mid
11 PARKROYAL on Beach Road Mid
12 Restaurant Fiz (21 Tanjong Pagar Pte Ltd) Mid
13 Copthorne King’s Hotel Base
14 Get Some LLP Base
15 Grain Pte Ltd Base
16 Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Base
17 Kate’s Catering Pte Ltd Base
18 Kian Seng Culinary Pte Ltd Base
19 King Grouper Fish Soup Pte Ltd Base
20 M Hotel Singapore Base
21 Orchard Hotel Singapore Base
22 Paradox Clarke Quay Pte. Ltd. Base
23 Studio M Singapore Base
24 Super Simple & Super Simple + Base
25 The Plattering Co Pte. Ltd Base
26 The Singapore Island Country Club Base

Other Awards Presented at RAS Epicurean Star Award 2025

No. Categories Winner Runner-up
1 WSG’s Workforce Transformation Award STARBUCKS COFFEE SINGAPORE

ShopeePay and iFAST Make Investing Available to the Masses with the Launch of ShopeePay Invest

Facilitated by iFAST Capital Sdn Bhd, the service allows users to purchase from 38 investment funds starting from only RM10

Kuala Lumpur, 22 October 2025  – As part of its ‘Simple Finance For All’ mission, ShopeePay is continuing to simplify fundamental financial services by partnering with iFAST Capital Sdn Bhd (“iFAST Capital”) to develop an intuitive, simplified way for Malaysians to kick start their investment journey.

With the launch of ShopeePay Invest on both the ShopeePay and Shopee apps, users can begin investing with clarity and ease, requiring only a RM10 minimum investment and no cap on total investments. For a limited time, users will also get to enjoy 0% sales fees on all fund subscriptions as an introductory offer. That means you can start investing with no added charge!

Through its partnership with iFAST Capital, ShopeePay Invest users can now access global investment opportunities through a curated list of 38 funds — spanning international and local markets, sectoral themes, and Shariah-compliant options.

IMPORTANT NOTE: ShopeePay Invest is currently being rolled out in phases, and will be made available to all users by 29 October 2025.

A Rewarding Return On Your Investments!

To celebrate the launch, ShopeePay has introduced a promotional campaign offering prizes such as an iPad Pro, Apple Watch Series 10, and ShopeePay eWallet credits. Users will automatically be eligible by investing a minimum of RM500 before 1 December 2025 and maintaining the investment until the holding period ends on 31 January 2026.

Below are the campaign mechanics:

Entry Eligibility Prizes
Maintaining at least RM500 in net subscriptions across any funds. ●    x1 Winner: Apple iPad Pro 11-inch model

●    x1 Winner: Dyson Vacuum Cleaner

●    x1 Winner: Apple Watch Series 10

●    x20 Winners: RM50 ShopeePay eWallet Credit

Winners will be announced on 12 February 2026. For full campaign details, please visit https://shopee.com.my/m/shopeepayinvestpromo.

Touching on the development of ShopeePay Invest, Alain Yee, CEO of ShopeePay commented, “We understand that financial well-being and growth might be a challenge for some. That’s why ShopeePay is committed to democratising financial access and making it simple for all to take control of their financial journey.”

“We designed this product with the first-time investor in mind, and focused on creating something clear and simple to help them get started. Over time, we hope that more Malaysians, even those in the underserved communities, feel more empowered to develop their financial skills, and we’re proud to be their starting point on that journey.”

ShopeePay Invest can be accessed from the ShopeePay app homepage, or via the Shopee app by going to the ‘Me’ page > ‘ShopeePay’ under My Wallet, which will direct users to the ShopeePay Invest page.

“We are pleased to announce our partnership with ShopeePay under its Recognized Market Operator (RMO) initiative,” said Dennis Tan, CEO of iFAST Malaysia, the holding company of iFAST Capital. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to empowering and educating more Malaysians to begin their savings and investment journey, even with small starting amounts. By combining digital convenience with accessible financial solutions, we aim to help more individuals build sustainable financial habits. We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to our fund house partners for their invaluable support in making this initiative possible.”

This launch aligns with ShopeePay’s ‘Simple Finance For All’ mission, which focuses on breaking down barriers so that financial products are accessible to everyone, now making it easier for more Malaysians to start their investment journey. For more information about activating ShopeePay Invest and the promotional campaign, please visit https://shopee.com.my/m/shopeepayinvestpromo.

World Christmas Market Returns Twice as Big with “Togetherland” At Bayfront Event Space

Running from 11 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, Togetherland brings to life the theme “A Christmas Constellation” across nine experiential zones.

Singapore, 22 October 2025 – The World Christmas Market 2025 (WCM 2025) proudly announces its return this year with Togetherland, bigger and brighter than before. Produced by Oceanus Media Global (OMG), Togetherland runs from 11 December 2025 to 4 January 2026 at its new home, the centrally located Bayfront Event Space, spanning ~20,000 square metres – doubling the capacity of its previous ~10,000-square-metre venue, The Promontory. Spanning 25 days, the festival will serve as a centrepiece of Singapore’s year-end festivities, featuring enhanced attractions and experiences designed to bring communities together in a celebration of creativity, sustainability and heartfelt connection.

Through the theme of “A Christmas Constellation”, Togetherland invites visitors on a starlit journey of light, love and community spirit, guided by The Reindeer Hosts – a team of faithful reindeers holding down the fort for Santa at Christmastime. Santa himself is on a mission – not of duty, but of love – to fill hearts everywhere with joy and hope, and visitors can expect him to bring a few special surprises to Togetherland. Every step, every zone and every moment draws visitors closer to the heart of Christmas, where elements from around the world shine as one and the spirit of the season lights the way. Staying true to the essence of WCM, Togetherland upholds its four defining hallmarks – authenticity, originality, community and sustainability – reaffirming its mission to celebrate the festive season with purpose and creativity.

“Building on the confidence and success of last year’s World Christmas Market, we wanted to bring the celebration to even greater heights this year. The 2025 edition will double in scale, with deeper cultural storytelling, more meaningful engagement opportunities and a stronger international appeal,” said Nick GC Tan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Oceanus Media Global (OMG). “At its heart, WCM remains rooted in authenticity and heartfelt experiences guided by our belief in doing good while doing well. Togetherland is designed to unite communities through joy, generosity and the shared spirit of Christmas.”

Making the experience heart-led, Togetherland features nine festive zones inspired by the nine reindeers, each representing a star cluster within the Christmas constellation. Spanning performance stages, global flavours, artisanal markets, family attractions and community initiatives, these zones come together to form a constellation of experiences that celebrate joy, generosity and togetherness this festive season.

At the heart of the celebration, Dancer’s Magical Playground takes centre stage as the main festival arena, presenting a specially commissioned Christmas Musical alongside a vibrant lineup of live acts beneath a canopy of stars. Dasher’s Festive Feast offers a lively dining oasis with festive bites and themed cocktails, while Prancer’s Star Bazaar showcases a curated marketplace of artisanal gifts and social-impact creations. Complementing these are Comet’s Global Market, celebrating international holiday flavours – from fine cheeses and wines to chocolates and festive bakes – along with five other shining zones helmed by reindeers Donner, Vixen, Blitzen, Cupid and Rudolph, dedicated to charity, sustainability, family and even pets, together illuminating every facet of Christmas magic.

Togetherland also welcomes the return of the popular Candy Cane Lane from the inaugural WCM, where rows of giant candy canes glow brightly amidst refreshing, beautiful real Christmas trees. A hotspot for the most photo-worthy moments, this year’s Candy Cane Lane will feature even more photo opportunity booths and scenic spots across the joy-infusing avenue, offering visitors endless moments to capture and share the festive spirit.

Giving back to the community remains a key hallmark of WCM. Togetherland dedicates a special festive zone, Donner’s Heartlight Haven, to highlight the festival’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, community and kindness. The zone invites visitors to engage with partner charities and social enterprises, celebrating the true spirit of giving this festive season.

Togetherland by World Christmas Market 2025 invites passionate retail and F&B vendors, as well as interested sponsors, to be part of its second edition and showcase their offerings at this highly anticipated festive event. The team is also seeking partners for media, charity and corporate social responsibility (CSR) collaborations, green energy solutions and other promotional partnerships.

Keep a lookout for more exciting updates on Togetherland by World Christmas Market, coming soon!

Centara Elevates Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival Spirit with “Food as Medicine” Philosophy

Tofu Herbal Spring Roll and Kaeng Liang Nop Gao served at Suan Bua, Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao

Thailand is now celebrating the annual Tesagan Gin Je, or Vegetarian Festival, from 21–29 October 2025, and Centara Hotels & Resorts embraces the spirit of purity, mindfulness, and compassion through food.

Bangkok, Thailand – October 2025 – As Thailand is now celebrating the annual Tesagan Gin Je, or Vegetarian Festival, from 21–29 October 2025Centara Hotels & Resorts embraces the spirit of purity, mindfulness, and compassion through food. At the heart of this celebration stands Suan Bua at Centara Grand at Central Plaza Ladprao Bangkok – a pioneer in authentic Thai dining that is redefining the boundaries of plant-based cuisine with a message deeply rooted in Thai wisdom: every food is medicine.

Suan Bua: Where Thai Heritage Meets Healing

For over four decades, Suan Bua has been a culinary landmark for genuine Thai flavours. Today, under the vision of Chef Pairin “Nim” Hahingsa, the restaurant continues its evolution by blending heritage recipes with modern nutritional insight. Guided by the principle of “Food as Medicine”, Suan Bua reinterprets traditional dishes using rare Thai herbsGI-certified ingredients, and chemical-free produce, proving that food can be both wholesome and indulgent.

“Thai cuisine is more than nourishment—it’s heritage and healing,” says Chef Nim. “Each ingredient carries a purpose. We carefully select herbs and regional produce not only for taste but for their natural therapeutic benefits. At Suan Bua, good food truly is the best medicine.”

Chef Nim, the visionary behind the culinary innovations of Suna Bua

A Pioneering Collaboration with Mahidol University

In a groundbreaking partnership with the Sireeruckhachati Nature Learning Park under the Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Suan Bua gains access to rare medicinal herbs and indigenous plants. These botanicals, such as Kotchula, Kra Chai Dum, and Wankaew, are meticulously integrated into the restaurant’s seasonal vegan menu to enhance wellness naturally. All dishes are prepared à la minute, using no MSG or refined sugar, and sweetened with natural stevia to maintain purity and balance.

Vegan Creations Inspired by Royal Thai Wisdom

This year’s Vegetarian Festival menu reflects the perfect harmony of tradition, taste, and therapeutic value, showcasing vibrant plant-based creations designed to nourish body and soul.
Signature dishes include:

  • Tofu Herbal Spring Rolls – Freshly wrapped with Japanese mint, holy basil, and Pak Plaw, each herb chosen for its healing qualities.
  • Kaeng Liang Nop Gao – A royal-inspired vegetable soup with nine seasonal vegetables, symbolising balance and vitality.
  • Thai Green Curry with Organic Vegetables – A delicate reinterpretation of the Thai classic, made with organic produce and GI-certified rice varieties.
  • Stevia Pandan Pearls in Ratchaburi Coconut Milk – A fragrant dessert that replaces refined sugar with stevia for a naturally sweet finish.

Championing GI-Certified Thai Produce

Suan Bua’s dishes also celebrate the richness of Thailand’s Geographical Indication (GI)-certified produce, supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture. Ingredients such as Volcanic Jasmine Rice from Buriram and Single Clove Garlic from Sisaket are thoughtfully featured, connecting diners to the land and its unique terroir.

A Legacy of Wellness and Sustainability

Chef Pattanee Thongsathiankit – Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives

The relaunch of Suan Bua marks a milestone in Centara’s journey toward conscious gastronomy—one that values health, heritage, and harmony with nature. Through the careful selection of ingredients, responsible sourcing, and collaboration with Thailand’s leading academic institutions, Centara continues to champion the belief that mindful eating leads to mindful living.

Matsutake Dashi Risotto, a refined East-meets-West dish from Kunsei Restaurant at Centara Grand Hotel Osaka Japan

Leading the way year-round

Vegan Yakisoba with Mushroom Hamburg – Centara Ras Fushi Maldives

What began as a tribute to Phuket’s Tesagan Gin Je has blossomed into a culinary movement across Centara Hotels & Resorts. From Bangkok and Phuket to the Maldives, Osaka, and Dubai, Centara’s chefs reinterpret Thai vegan cuisine for a global audience—honouring wellness, sustainability, and compassion through flavourful, plant-based dining experiences.

By focusing on seasonal produce, local sourcing, and plant-based proteins, Centara chefs are lowering environmental impact while keeping flavours rich and authentic. And the journey is far from over. As demand for plant-based dining grows, Centara is continuing to evolve its menus — ensuring Thai culinary traditions are not only preserved but also carried forward in new and exciting ways.

Autumn Pumpkin Kibbeh – Centara Mirage Dubai

As Phuket celebrates its iconic Tesagan Gin Je Festival from 21st – 29th October 2025, Centara invites guests everywhere to experience Thai plant-based dining all year round.

For more information about Centara, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com.

Hextar World At Empire City Soft Launches 29 November With Experiences That Redefine Lifestyle

Hextar World at Empire City is set to soft launch this November.

Malaysia’s newest lifestyle hub debuts with a preview of attractions, arts, entertainment and design that transform every visit into a journey of discovery

PETALING JAYA, 21 October 2025 – Hextar World at Empire City will welcome the public for the first time with its soft launch on 29 November 2025. Spanning 1.8 million sq. ft. net lettable area (NLA) with 450,000 sq. ft. dedicated to entertainment in the heart of Damansara, the destination, known as The Exploratorium, blends lifestyle, leisure, the arts and entertainment with bold architectural design that makes creativity part of every corner, creating the feeling of walking through a living gallery.

Over 600 retailers and business partners got a glimpse into Hextar World.

A First Glimpse into “The Exploratorium”

At an exclusive tenant Countdown Party on 10 October 2025, Hextar World hosted over 600 retailers and business partners for a first look at the new lifestyle hub. Guests previewed the opening festivities slated for next month, with lively performances and family-friendly entertainment, while also getting a glimpse of the experiences that will soon call Hextar World their home, including performing arts, wellness activities, retail, dining and leisure. Among the highlights is Parkson’s unveiling of a next-generation retail concept, debuting exclusively at Hextar World, alongside other tenants that bring variety and innovation to the hub.

Architecture plays a starring role in shaping the experience. Hextar World’s High Street draws inspiration from global design landmarks, while sculptural installations and striking features are seamlessly integrated throughout the hub. Everyday pathways are treated as canvases and visitors encounter art in unexpected places, transforming a simple visit into an experience of discovery and inspiration.

Vision for a Community Hub

“It is with great pride that we present Hextar World to the public. Over the past few months, we have curated a unique list of pioneer tenants to bring vibrancy to every corner of this place and turn Hextar World into a living, breathing community,” said Dato Eddie Ong, Group CEO of Hextar Group.

Dato Eddie Ong delivered the opening speech at the exclusive Countdown Party on 10 October 2025.

He added, “Hextar World marks a bold new chapter in community-focused commercial development, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming Malaysians on 29 November as they enter a lifestyle hub destination like no other.”

Catalysing Tourism and the Local Economy

Hextar World is envisioned as a catalyst for urban revitalisation in Damansara, contributing to job creation, SME opportunities and Malaysia’s growing appeal as a family-friendly tourism hub. Attractions set to open in the mall include:

  • 10Star Cinemas – flagship outlet and first branch in West Malaysia
  • AB&C Surf and Skate School – the only surf and surfskate school of its kind in Malaysia
  • Ballet Theatre Malaysia – new premises of Klang Valley’s first professional ballet company
  • Jungle Gym – Malaysia’s biggest indoor playground brand
  • Luckin Coffee – flagship outlet at Hextar World
  • Malaysia National Ice Skating Stadium (MYNISS) – Olympic-sized ice rink stadium for all ice sports
  • Miami Beach – Malaysia’s largest indoor water park, featuring a first-of-its-kind indoor beach concept with a day-and-night cycle
  • Parkson New Retail Experience – unveiled for the first time at Hextar World
  • Playa Racquet Club – a trendy beach-inspired pickleball destination
  • Slope Master – the country’s largest indoor ski and snowboarding training facility
  • Sport Planet – a multi-brand powerhouse for sports and fashion
  • Trin International School – a new learning institution with multilingual education tracks
  • Wangsa Bowl – the newest bowling outlet at Hextar World
  • Village Grocer – a homegrown premium supermarket brand

What’s Next

As the first phase kicks off on November 29, visitors will step into a preview of what is to come, with curated experiences, live entertainment and sneak peeks designed to spark excitement. These early moments are only the beginning, building anticipation for the full unveiling of Hextar World in 2026.

For leasing inquiries, media opportunities, and partnership discussions, please contact: info@hextarworld.com.my or leasing@hextarworld.com.my.

About Hextar World at Empire City

Hextar World at Empire City is a 1.8 million sq. ft. net lettable area (NLA) with 450,000 sq. ft. dedicated to entertainment. It is a lifestyle destination in Damansara created to transform everyday outings into extraordinary experiences. Envisioned as The Exploratorium, it brings together sport, leisure, the arts and entertainment in one dynamic hub, from Olympic-sized ice sports and indoor ski training to family attractions, live performances and community markets. More than a mall, Hextar World is designed as a gallery in motion, where art and architecture shape every pathway, and visitors encounter unexpected moments of creativity and discovery. With its blend of distinctive experiences, cultural energy and artistic expression, Hextar World is set to become one of Malaysia’s most vibrant lifestyle landmarks. Learn more at www.hextarworld.com.my or follow our social media accounts at @hextarworldempirecity.

 

MAGGI Syiok Kaw series expands with Shoyu Daging Kaw

Nestlé Malaysia has officially launched its latest instant noodle innovation — MAGGI Syiok Shoyu Daging Kaw — a flavour-packed creation that brings together the umami richness of Japanese-style shoyu with a fiery kick. Part of the MAGGI Syiok Kaw series, this variant promises a robust and intense taste experience that is sure to satisfy fans of rich, savoury noodles.

Chery Corporate Malaysia Charts Ambitious Course At China Global Summit, Unveiling Multi-Brand Strategy For Malaysian Market

WUHU, CHINA, 21 OCTOBER 2025  Chery Corporate Malaysia played a pivotal role in the landmark Chery International User Summit 2025 in Wuhu, themed “Co-Create, Co-Define: The New Move.” The event served as the global launchpad for Chery’s diversified future, highlighting a multi-brand strategy designed to cater to the full spectrum of Malaysian consumers.

The announcements solidified the future roadmap for the entire portfolio: the user-centric Chery master brand; the dynamic duo of OMODA I JAECOO; the classic-inspired iCAUR full electric off-road vehicle brand; and the upcoming soon to be launched model, LEPAS.

he summit, a gathering of 2,000 representatives from over 100 countries, transcended a traditional auto show, embodying CHERY’s commitment to building a global, user-centric ecosystema core philosophy of CHERY Corporate Malaysia’s approach.

CHERY Brand Night Celebrates Global User Co-Creation, Unveiling World’s First Transformable SUV

The core CHERY brand set a powerful tone with its “Brand Night,” showcasing a deep commitment to user collaboration. The event featured the global debut of the world’s first 7-Seater Transformable Multi-SUV, a vehicle born from over 40,000 pieces of feedback from global users, including key insights from Malaysia.

“This vehicle is the physical embodiment of our ‘Co-create and Co-define’ philosophy,” said Mr. Zheng Songzhi, Executive Deputy General Manager of CHERY International Marketing Center. The innovative SUV features a “6=1 formula, achieving six different spatial configurationsfrom a spacious 7-seater to a practical pickupredefining versatility for modern families.

OMODA I JAECOO Global Sales Surge 39%, Driven by Strong Regional Performance

In September 2025, OMODA I JAECOO achieved outstanding global sales of 32,840 units, marking a 39% year-on-year growth and surpassing 630,000 cumulative sales. The brand demonstrated strong performance across Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Americas, with new energy vehicles accounting for 57% of total sales led by the OMODA O5 SHS-H and JAECOO J7 SHS models.

The brand’s innovation was further highlighted by the track debut of the high-performance OMODA 9 SHS, featuring world-exclusive quad-motor AWD hybrid technology. At the October International User Summit, the brand unveiled breakthroughs in hybrid powertrains and solid-state batteries, achieving a record 48% engine thermal efficiency.

The event also featured the AiMOGA-developed Mojia Robot, reinforcing OMODA I JAECOO’s commitment to merging power, intelligence, and sustainability while co-creating a better future with users worldwide.

iCAUR: Crafting ‘New Classics’ for Electric Mobility

The iCAUR brand, part of the Chery Corporate Malaysia portfolio, presented its vision for establishing ‘New Classics’ in the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sector during the 2025 International User Summit. The showcase was built around iCAUR’s full lineup of customisable vehicles, each model featuring bold, clean lines and carefully crafted details that position them as modern icons.

Central to the brand’s identity is its deep commitment to a customisation ecosystem, offering owners an extensive range of bespoke parts and accessories to personalize their vehicles and express their individuality. This fusion of timeless, vintage-inspired design with a forward-thinking, user-centric approach to personalisation defines iCAUR’s unique position in the market, offering a fresh and sophisticated choice for Malaysian consumers seeking an electric vehicle that is both a mode of transport and a statement of personal style.

LEPAS: Redefining Premium Mobility with Elegant Technology and Lifestyle
With plans to officially introduce this new standard of elegance to Malaysian consumers in the first half of 2026, LEPAS is marking its debut as an independent global marque under the Chery umbrella.

LEPAS made a powerful entrance with the dual launch of its groundbreaking “Elegant Technology” framework and the grand opening of its first global Elegant Lifestyle House. This innovative space breaks from automotive tradition, creating a miniature urban block with themed zones that allow customers to fully immerse themselves in the brand’s world, serving as a replicable model for future global retail.

LEPAS’“Elegant Technology” framework is built on a forward-engineered platform and advanced three-electric systems (comprising the battery pack, electric motor, and motor controller) promising efficient and stable performance, complemented by an intelligent cockpit designed for emotional connection and uncompromising safety.

With a clear strategic blueprint to launch eight new models within three years and become the global synonym for “Elegant Driving,” LEPAS is decisively positioned as a sophisticated and dedicated player in the premium new-energy vehicle market.

A Unified Vision for Malaysia

“For CHERY Corporate Malaysia, this summit is a clear declaration of our future,” said Men Lin Bo, Executive Vice President of Chery Corporate Malaysia. “We are transitioning into a comprehensive mobility solutions provider. The user-co-created future of Chery, OMODA I JAECOO, iCAUR and Lepas give us an unparalleled toolkit to meet the diverse needs of Malaysian consumers.

The active participation of Malaysian attendees and partners at the summit was highlighted as a critical component of this co-creative process, ensuring that the vehicles and brand experiences brought to Malaysia are finely attuned to local tastes and expectations.

Snickers Butterscotch limited edition now available in Malaysia

Image credit: Minimeinsights.com

Now now at major retailers across Malaysia, the limited edition Snickers Butterscotch brings a bold new flavour to the iconic chocolate bar. This indulgent treat blends crunchy roasted peanuts, chewy caramel, and a velvety butterscotch-infused nougat, creating a rich, creamy taste sensation that elevates your snacking experience to new heights.

NESCAFÉ Gula Melaka Returns to 7-Eleven Malaysia with a taste of local heritage

The beloved limited edition NESCAFÉ Gula Melaka is back, bringing with it the rich, nostalgic flavour of Malaysia’s traditional palm sugar. First introduced in 2021, this unique coffee blend features the harmonious fusion of NESCAFÉ’s signature coffee and the deep, caramel-like sweetness of gula melaka.

Now making its exclusive comeback at 7-Eleven Malaysia, the drink offers a modern twist on local flavours, perfect for those seeking a comforting yet refreshing beverage.

Mister Potato unleashes K-Razy Kick featuring the spicy sour flavour

Image credit: Minimeinsights.com

Mister Potato, the potato chip brand of Mamee Double-Decker (M), has recently unveiled the Mister Potato K-Razy Kick Spicy Sour flavour as part of the collaboration featuring Seventeen’s JOSHUA, DK and DINO. This unique spicy-sour flavour fusion aims to excite fans and snack lovers alike, offering a punchy twist that stands out from traditional chip offerings.

Mister Potato is current having the #JinjjaCrunch contest with a chance to win cash prize of up to RM 17,000 plus a chance to win exclusive Meet & Greet pass to meet JOSHUA, DK & DINO in KL.

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