![\"receptionist](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/9a742de1-receptionist-hotel-envato-elements-pic-201024-2.webp\")
IPOH: The low number of tourists staying overnight in Perak makes it difficult for the state government to attract internationally branded hotels or those rated four stars and above to operate in the state, the Perak legislative assembly was told today.
\nTourism, industry, investment and corridor development committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said the state government had been working instead on developing boutique hotels in Perak.
\nHe said several boutique hotels were already operating in Ipoh and could cater to tourists seeking quality accommodation.
\n“Many tourists do not need five-star, six-star or seven-star hotels. What they want is a comfortable and clean place to sleep, clean toilets, clean beds and so on.
\n“So in this case, boutique hotels are just right for the market,” he said when replying to a question from Wong Chai Yi (PH-Simpang Pulai).
\nHowever, Loh said the state also needed internationally, regionally or locally branded high-end hotels to boost tourism by encouraging visitors to stay longer and spend more.
\nAccording to the tourism, arts and culture ministry, boutique hotels must have at least 10 rooms or 50 beds, and offer personalised, luxurious services with unique and distinctive concepts and designs.
\n","content_text":"IPOH: The low number of tourists staying overnight in Perak makes it difficult for the state government to attract internationally branded hotels or those rated four stars and above to operate in the state, the Perak legislative assembly was told today.\nTourism, industry, investment and corridor development committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said the state government had been working instead on developing boutique hotels in Perak.\nHe said several boutique hotels were already operating in Ipoh and could cater to tourists seeking quality accommodation.\n“Many tourists do not need five-star, six-star or seven-star hotels. What they want is a comfortable and clean place to sleep, clean toilets, clean beds and so on.\n\"So in this case, boutique hotels are just right for the market,\" he said when replying to a question from Wong Chai Yi (PH-Simpang Pulai).\nHowever, Loh said the state also needed internationally, regionally or locally branded high-end hotels to boost tourism by encouraging visitors to stay longer and spend more.\nAccording to the tourism, arts and culture ministry, boutique hotels must have at least 10 rooms or 50 beds, and offer personalised, luxurious services with unique and distinctive concepts and designs.","date_published":"2026-04-21T07:58:27.000Z","author":{"name":"Bernama"},"tags":["Top News","Malaysia","Lifestyle","Travel","Top Lifestyle","boutique hotels","hotels","Ipoh","Loh Sze Yee","overnight stays","Perak","tourism"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/9a742de1-receptionist-hotel-envato-elements-pic-201024-2.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/9a742de1-receptionist-hotel-envato-elements-pic-201024-2.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/inside-the-world-of-ultra-luxury-wedding-cakes","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/inside-the-world-of-ultra-luxury-wedding-cakes","title":"Inside the world of ultra-luxury wedding cakes","summary":"French pastry chef Bastien Blanc-Tailleur creates cakes akin to haute couture — bespoke, handcrafted and requiring exceptional time and cost.","content_html":"![\"French](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2eb6e628-cake-luxury-afp-21_04_26.webp\")
PARIS: Competing for attention with Jennifer Lopez is no easy task. But at a recent wedding in India where the American star performed in a barely-there sparkly leotard, it was arguably the cake that stole the show.
\nThe towering multi-tier construction, several metres high and inspired by Rajasthani architecture, became a talking-point among guests and featured prominently in media coverage of the 500-guest extravaganza last November.
\nIts designer was French celebrity pastry chef Bastien Blanc-Tailleur, whose creations are to cakes what Haute Couture is to fashion: one-off, hand-made, and requiring extraordinary investments in time and money.
\n“We rarely work on a wedding that has a budget of less than a million euros,” the 34-year-old told AFP in his studio outside Paris, surrounded by five of his latest edible sculptures.
\nThe marriage ceremony of billionaire heiress Netra Mantena and tech entrepreneur Vamsi Gadiraju last November in Udaipur cost a reported US$6.7 million, with J-Lo said to have pocketed two million for her appearance.
\nBlanc-Tailleur declines to reveal prices, saying only that his most modest custom-made cakes start at €20,000 (US$23,500) and the elaborate signature pieces can cost multiple times that.
\nThe Indian order comprised five cakes in total: the main creation with tumbling orchids, elephants and dome-shaped pavilions in white sugar-paste, and then two more cakes for the families, as well as another pair which were lowered from the ceiling.
\nThey took an estimated 3,500 hours of work.
\n“We probably hit the top limit of what we’re capable of,” Blanc-Tailleur explained, adding: “It was one of the projects that I’m the most proud of.”
\nChallenges
\nBlanc-Tailleur’s artistry, which he says draws on French traditions dating back to the 1700s which then spread to Britain and America, depends on the patronage of wealthy clients around the world.
\nMiddle East royals, wealthy American scions and European aristocrats compete for his limited services: with a full-time staff of only 10, he can only produce about 20-25 cakes a year.
\nThe US and Israeli attack on Iran on Feb 28, which has sparked a regional conflict encompassing much of the Middle East, has upended the well-laid plans of some of these customers.
\n“Lots of weddings have been pushed back to next year or the year after,” he told AFP.
\n“Several clients who were going to get married in Israel or in Lebanon or in Saudi Arabia have changed and are going to get married in France instead,” he added.
\nIn the eight years since he started his business, he’s had other challenges: the pandemic, as well as problems transporting and finishing his fragile cakes at the ultra-VIP castles and hotels that serve as venues.
\nLogistical issues at the Indian event last November meant Blanc-Tailleur faced a last-minute dash to source eggs and butter for the cake’s base.
\n“Right up until the last-minute we were not sure we were able to deliver the project in the best way,” he explained.
\nOn another occasion, an over-zealous customs official in Saudi Arabia opened the specially designed boxes used to protect the cakes in transit, but neglected to close them properly, causing damage to the icing.
\nNo limits
\n![\"French](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f346ed2a-cake-luxury-2-afp-21_04_26.webp\")
Blanc-Tailleur started out as a baker’s apprentice before still in his twenties rising into kitchen management jobs at the prestigious George V hotel in Paris and the team of celebrated French chef Yannick Alleno.
\nHe says he retained a key lesson from Alleno, the holder of 18 Michelin stars at his various restaurants.
\n“He used to say that when you’re thinking about a project, you shouldn’t think about how you’re going to do it. Otherwise, you limit yourself in the creative process,” Blanc-Tailleur explained.
\nHis designs are drawn by hand on white card — he disdains AI and ultra-realist renderings that remove the joy of discovering the final product.
\nA compulsive collector — of butterflies, seashells, stones and carvings from fleamarkets — Blanc-Tailleur estimates he has about 2,000-3,000 different moulds to help make prototypes and the final icing mouldings.
\n“The flowers are the bit that take the most time,” he said, with roses, orchids, even hydrangeas all made with hand-sculptured layers of icing to match a mood board provided by the wedding planner.
\nWith so much energy-intensive work and international travel — he attends the weddings of most of his clients — Blanc-Tailleur has little time for himself.
\n“I’ve been engaged for four years,” he confided, with no date set for his own marriage.
\n","content_text":"PARIS: Competing for attention with Jennifer Lopez is no easy task. But at a recent wedding in India where the American star performed in a barely-there sparkly leotard, it was arguably the cake that stole the show.\nThe towering multi-tier construction, several metres high and inspired by Rajasthani architecture, became a talking-point among guests and featured prominently in media coverage of the 500-guest extravaganza last November.\nIts designer was French celebrity pastry chef Bastien Blanc-Tailleur, whose creations are to cakes what Haute Couture is to fashion: one-off, hand-made, and requiring extraordinary investments in time and money.\n\"We rarely work on a wedding that has a budget of less than a million euros,\" the 34-year-old told AFP in his studio outside Paris, surrounded by five of his latest edible sculptures.\nThe marriage ceremony of billionaire heiress Netra Mantena and tech entrepreneur Vamsi Gadiraju last November in Udaipur cost a reported US$6.7 million, with J-Lo said to have pocketed two million for her appearance.\nBlanc-Tailleur declines to reveal prices, saying only that his most modest custom-made cakes start at €20,000 (US$23,500) and the elaborate signature pieces can cost multiple times that.\nThe Indian order comprised five cakes in total: the main creation with tumbling orchids, elephants and dome-shaped pavilions in white sugar-paste, and then two more cakes for the families, as well as another pair which were lowered from the ceiling.\nThey took an estimated 3,500 hours of work.\n\"We probably hit the top limit of what we're capable of,\" Blanc-Tailleur explained, adding: \"It was one of the projects that I'm the most proud of.\"\nChallenges\nBlanc-Tailleur's artistry, which he says draws on French traditions dating back to the 1700s which then spread to Britain and America, depends on the patronage of wealthy clients around the world.\nMiddle East royals, wealthy American scions and European aristocrats compete for his limited services: with a full-time staff of only 10, he can only produce about 20-25 cakes a year.\nThe US and Israeli attack on Iran on Feb 28, which has sparked a regional conflict encompassing much of the Middle East, has upended the well-laid plans of some of these customers.\n\"Lots of weddings have been pushed back to next year or the year after,\" he told AFP.\n\"Several clients who were going to get married in Israel or in Lebanon or in Saudi Arabia have changed and are going to get married in France instead,\" he added.\nIn the eight years since he started his business, he's had other challenges: the pandemic, as well as problems transporting and finishing his fragile cakes at the ultra-VIP castles and hotels that serve as venues.\nLogistical issues at the Indian event last November meant Blanc-Tailleur faced a last-minute dash to source eggs and butter for the cake's base.\n\"Right up until the last-minute we were not sure we were able to deliver the project in the best way,\" he explained.\nOn another occasion, an over-zealous customs official in Saudi Arabia opened the specially designed boxes used to protect the cakes in transit, but neglected to close them properly, causing damage to the icing.\nNo limits \n\nBlanc-Tailleur started out as a baker's apprentice before still in his twenties rising into kitchen management jobs at the prestigious George V hotel in Paris and the team of celebrated French chef Yannick Alleno.\nHe says he retained a key lesson from Alleno, the holder of 18 Michelin stars at his various restaurants.\n\"He used to say that when you're thinking about a project, you shouldn't think about how you're going to do it. Otherwise, you limit yourself in the creative process,\" Blanc-Tailleur explained.\nHis designs are drawn by hand on white card - he disdains AI and ultra-realist renderings that remove the joy of discovering the final product.\nA compulsive collector - of butterflies, seashells, stones and carvings from fleamarkets - Blanc-Tailleur estimates he has about 2,000-3,000 different moulds to help make prototypes and the final icing mouldings.\n\"The flowers are the bit that take the most time,\" he said, with roses, orchids, even hydrangeas all made with hand-sculptured layers of icing to match a mood board provided by the wedding planner.\nWith so much energy-intensive work and international travel - he attends the weddings of most of his clients - Blanc-Tailleur has little time for himself.\n\"I've been engaged for four years,\" he confided, with no date set for his own marriage.","date_published":"2026-04-21T04:55:34.000Z","author":{"name":"AFP"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Food","Top Lifestyle","Cake","celebrity","France","luxury","wedding"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2eb6e628-cake-luxury-afp-21_04_26.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2eb6e628-cake-luxury-afp-21_04_26.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/the-devil-wears-prada-2-stars-reunite-for-glamorous-premiere","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/the-devil-wears-prada-2-stars-reunite-for-glamorous-premiere","title":"‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ stars reunite for glamorous premiere","summary":"Meryl Streep, who returns as tyrannical magazine editor Miranda Priestly, was joined on the red carpet by Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/953805c0-devil-wears-prada-2-21042026.webp\")
NEW YORK: Two decades after “The Devil Wears Prada” became a modern US classic, its stars reunited in New York on Monday for the long-awaited sequel’s world premiere.
\nMeryl Streep, who returns as tyrannical magazine editor Miranda Priestly, was joined on the red carpet by fellow A-listers Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci.
\n“It was like, why did it take so long?” Streep told Disney Plus when asked about stepping back into her fearsome character’s shoes.
\nTucci agreed: “Yes, exactly. It was like riding a bicycle.”
\n“The Devil Wears Prada 2” sees a now well-established Andy Sachs (Hathaway) back at Runway Magazine, where Miranda Priestly (Streep) is navigating the decline of print media.
\nThe veteran editor is forced to go head-to-head with her former, frantic assistant Emily Charlton (Blunt) – now a high-powered executive who controls the advertising revenue that Priestly needs.
\nKenneth Branagh joins the cast as Miranda’s newest husband, along with newcomers like Simone Ashley and Lucy Liu.
\nNaturally, fashion was front and centre at Monday’s premiere, where three-time Oscar winner Streep wore a red Givenchy outfit.
\nShe said in an interview that all the clothes, jewellery, bags and shoes featured in “The Devil Wears Prada 2” are to be auctioned for the Committee to Protect Journalists.
\nCo-stars Hathaway and Blunt, who wore Louis Vuitton and Schiaparelli, respectively, credited fans for making the sequel happen.
\n“We’re literally here because of you, because you took us into your hearts and kept us there for 20 years and said ‘we want more.’ That’s why this whole dream has continued for us,” Hathaway told Disney Plus.
\nOther red carpet celebrities included Anna Wintour, the former Vogue editor, who is considered the inspiration for Streep’s character.
\n“The Devil Wears Prada 2” opens in theatres on May 1.
\nIts 2006 precursor is widely seen as a definitive satire of the US fashion industry, capturing the allure of power and ambition.
\n","content_text":"NEW YORK: Two decades after \"The Devil Wears Prada\" became a modern US classic, its stars reunited in New York on Monday for the long-awaited sequel's world premiere.\nMeryl Streep, who returns as tyrannical magazine editor Miranda Priestly, was joined on the red carpet by fellow A-listers Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci.\n\"It was like, why did it take so long?\" Streep told Disney Plus when asked about stepping back into her fearsome character's shoes.\nTucci agreed: \"Yes, exactly. It was like riding a bicycle.\"\n\"The Devil Wears Prada 2\" sees a now well-established Andy Sachs (Hathaway) back at Runway Magazine, where Miranda Priestly (Streep) is navigating the decline of print media.\nThe veteran editor is forced to go head-to-head with her former, frantic assistant Emily Charlton (Blunt) – now a high-powered executive who controls the advertising revenue that Priestly needs.\nKenneth Branagh joins the cast as Miranda's newest husband, along with newcomers like Simone Ashley and Lucy Liu.\nNaturally, fashion was front and centre at Monday's premiere, where three-time Oscar winner Streep wore a red Givenchy outfit.\nShe said in an interview that all the clothes, jewellery, bags and shoes featured in \"The Devil Wears Prada 2\" are to be auctioned for the Committee to Protect Journalists.\nCo-stars Hathaway and Blunt, who wore Louis Vuitton and Schiaparelli, respectively, credited fans for making the sequel happen.\n\"We're literally here because of you, because you took us into your hearts and kept us there for 20 years and said 'we want more.' That's why this whole dream has continued for us,\" Hathaway told Disney Plus.\nOther red carpet celebrities included Anna Wintour, the former Vogue editor, who is considered the inspiration for Streep's character.\n\"The Devil Wears Prada 2\" opens in theatres on May 1.\nIts 2006 precursor is widely seen as a definitive satire of the US fashion industry, capturing the allure of power and ambition.","date_published":"2026-04-21T01:00:46.000Z","author":{"name":"AFP"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","anne hathaway","Devil Prada","Emily Blunt","Fashion satire","Fashion sequel","Hollywood premiere","Meryl Streep","New York premiere","Runway Magazine","Stanley Tucci"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/953805c0-devil-wears-prada-2-21042026.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/953805c0-devil-wears-prada-2-21042026.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/turning-a-job-loss-into-an-award-winning-nasi-lemak-biz","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/turning-a-job-loss-into-an-award-winning-nasi-lemak-biz","title":"Turning a job loss into an award-winning nasi lemak biz","summary":"Kumaresan Naidu opens Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak, a cosy eatery in Seremban serving an Indian-inspired take on Malaysia’s favourite dish.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/fc8b2a34-kumaresan-naidu-lifestyle-fmt-200426-1.webp\")
SEREMBAN: When former customer service associate Kumaresan Naidu was retrenched in 2022, he was filled with fear and worry.
\nHaving built a comfortable life in the nation’s capital for years, he doubted if restarting his career in his forties was even possible.
\nHe returned to his hometown of Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, to clear his head. Using the proceeds from his Mutual Separation Scheme (MSS), and skills learnt from a course by Socso, a social security organisation, he opened a nasi lemak stall.
\n“I felt that F&B was the future. My mum and uncles all had very good cooking skills. So I hoped I had somehow managed to inherit those genes,” Kumaresan told FMT Lifestyle with a laugh.
\n\nNasi lemak proved to be the ideal dish. He reasoned that many other cuisines are tied to specific meal times; roti canai, for example, is typically enjoyed for breakfast, while fried rice and noodles are more common for lunch or dinner.
\nNasi lemak, however, can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This flexibility also meant significantly lower food wastage.
\nNaming the stall after his mother Susila, Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak soon kicked off. It proved more successful than Kumaresan expected, even emerging as one of the winners of GrabFood’s 5 Star Awards 2024 in the Budget-Friendly Favourites Category.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f5b9874e-nasi-lemak-petai-lifestyle-fmt-200426-1.webp\")
“My mother gave us the recipes. The thing is, she never measures any of the ingredients, just throws an ‘agak-agak’, approximate amount in her food. I had to measure and record everything to be consistent,” Kumaresan laughed.
\nThe eatery is known for its unique Indian “ala carte” twist on nasi lemak, blending its popular trappings with kambing masala and prawn sambal. As a result, patrons can enjoy many different iterations of nasi lemak here.
\nThe first stall was eventually converted into a home kitchen, which his parents now operate from their residence.
\nKumaresan, meanwhile, moved on to bigger things: running a proper dining establishment now. About three weeks ago, Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak opened its second branch, a cosy eatery in a bustling shophouse in Seremban 2.
\nDespite the change in setting, the new restaurant continues to serve the same fresh, flavourful dishes that helped its original incarnation gain popularity.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/9706e4e1-mutton-lifestyle-fmt-200426-1.webp\")
One fun fact: the sambal here has been lab-tested at University Kebangsaan Malaysia! Kumaresan actually has a certificate proving that their blend is free of salmonella or other types of bacteria.
\nHe cooks all the food here, and maintains freshness and food quality at the highest level. All ingredients are hand-picked from the local market, and any leftovers are discarded at day end.
\nOne defining characteristic of Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak is its generous use of seafood, reflected in one of its standout menu items: Nasi Lemak with Prawn Petai.
\nHere, the tender flesh of the prawn contrasts sharply with the firm, almost crunchy bite of the petai pods, creating a textural interplay that elevates each mouthful.
\nAnother popular option is Nasi Lemak with Fried Chicken, loved for its marinade infused with a vibrant blend of zesty Indian spices. Complement your meal with a Bru Masala Coffee or a dessert like Gulab Jamun for the full experience.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/b5515d8f-kitchen-lifestyle-fmt-200426-1.webp\")
Business has been slowly building over the first month of business, and Kumaresan hopes more people discover his outlet’s take on this beloved dish.
\nTo him, nasi lemak is a canvas of textures and flavours, with coconut rice, nuts, ikan bilis, sambal, eggs, cucumber, and sides combining to create the quintessential Malaysian culinary experience.
\n“I hope customers enjoy the simple, homecooked-food style ambiance. You definitely won’t find the usual kind of nasi lemak here! So dig in and enjoy the taste,” Kumaresan concluded with a grin.
\nAuntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak
\nPusat Perdagangan, 262-1
\nJalan S2 B25, Ikon
\nSeremban 2
\n70300 Seremban
Business Hours: 4pm–10.30pm (Closed on Sunday)
\nFollow Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak on Facebook.
\n","content_text":"SEREMBAN: When former customer service associate Kumaresan Naidu was retrenched in 2022, he was filled with fear and worry.\nHaving built a comfortable life in the nation’s capital for years, he doubted if restarting his career in his forties was even possible.\nHe returned to his hometown of Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, to clear his head. Using the proceeds from his Mutual Separation Scheme (MSS), and skills learnt from a course by Socso, a social security organisation, he opened a nasi lemak stall.\n“I felt that F&B was the future. My mum and uncles all had very good cooking skills. So I hoped I had somehow managed to inherit those genes,” Kumaresan told FMT Lifestyle with a laugh.\n\nNasi lemak proved to be the ideal dish. He reasoned that many other cuisines are tied to specific meal times; roti canai, for example, is typically enjoyed for breakfast, while fried rice and noodles are more common for lunch or dinner.\nNasi lemak, however, can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This flexibility also meant significantly lower food wastage.\nNaming the stall after his mother Susila, Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak soon kicked off. It proved more successful than Kumaresan expected, even emerging as one of the winners of GrabFood’s 5 Star Awards 2024 in the Budget-Friendly Favourites Category.\n\n“My mother gave us the recipes. The thing is, she never measures any of the ingredients, just throws an ‘agak-agak’, approximate amount in her food. I had to measure and record everything to be consistent,” Kumaresan laughed.\nThe eatery is known for its unique Indian “ala carte” twist on nasi lemak, blending its popular trappings with kambing masala and prawn sambal. As a result, patrons can enjoy many different iterations of nasi lemak here.\nThe first stall was eventually converted into a home kitchen, which his parents now operate from their residence.\nKumaresan, meanwhile, moved on to bigger things: running a proper dining establishment now. About three weeks ago, Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak opened its second branch, a cosy eatery in a bustling shophouse in Seremban 2.\nDespite the change in setting, the new restaurant continues to serve the same fresh, flavourful dishes that helped its original incarnation gain popularity.\n\nOne fun fact: the sambal here has been lab-tested at University Kebangsaan Malaysia! Kumaresan actually has a certificate proving that their blend is free of salmonella or other types of bacteria.\nHe cooks all the food here, and maintains freshness and food quality at the highest level. All ingredients are hand-picked from the local market, and any leftovers are discarded at day end.\nOne defining characteristic of Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak is its generous use of seafood, reflected in one of its standout menu items: Nasi Lemak with Prawn Petai.\nHere, the tender flesh of the prawn contrasts sharply with the firm, almost crunchy bite of the petai pods, creating a textural interplay that elevates each mouthful.\nAnother popular option is Nasi Lemak with Fried Chicken, loved for its marinade infused with a vibrant blend of zesty Indian spices. Complement your meal with a Bru Masala Coffee or a dessert like Gulab Jamun for the full experience.\n\nBusiness has been slowly building over the first month of business, and Kumaresan hopes more people discover his outlet’s take on this beloved dish.\nTo him, nasi lemak is a canvas of textures and flavours, with coconut rice, nuts, ikan bilis, sambal, eggs, cucumber, and sides combining to create the quintessential Malaysian culinary experience.\n“I hope customers enjoy the simple, homecooked-food style ambiance. You definitely won’t find the usual kind of nasi lemak here! So dig in and enjoy the taste,” Kumaresan concluded with a grin.\nAuntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak\nPusat Perdagangan, 262-1\nJalan S2 B25, Ikon\nSeremban 2\n70300 Seremban\nBusiness Hours: 4pm–10.30pm (Closed on Sunday)\nFollow Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak on Facebook.","date_published":"2026-04-21T01:00:43.000Z","author":{"name":"Terence Toh @ FMT Lifestyle"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Food","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","Auntie Susie’s Nasi Lemak","GrabFood 5 Stars Awards","Gulab Jamun","Kumaresan Naidu","nasi lemak","petai prawns","Seremban"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/fc8b2a34-kumaresan-naidu-lifestyle-fmt-200426-1.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/fc8b2a34-kumaresan-naidu-lifestyle-fmt-200426-1.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/where-old-hats-find-new-life-and-purpose","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/where-old-hats-find-new-life-and-purpose","title":"Where old hats find new life and purpose","summary":"In Wangsa Maju, Ahmad Fadhil Nazeri transforms faded or damaged headgear into wearable pieces of history with careful, hands-on work.","content_html":"![\"ahmad\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2ef312af-ahmad-lifestyle-emelpic-200426.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: To most people, an old, faded cap is something to toss aside. For Ahmad Fadhil Nazeri, it is something worth saving.
\nThe 29-year-old has built a business out of restoring worn-out hats, bringing them back to life with careful cleaning, reshaping and, sometimes, a complete makeover.
\nWhat others see as damaged, he sees as something that still holds meaning – whether as a fashion piece, a collector’s item, or a memory too precious to throw away.
\nHis foray into the craft was not planned. In 2018, Ahmad Fadhil was working part-time at a shoe-cleaning shop that also offered hat-cleaning services.
\n“The owner asked me to focus on hats while he handled the shoes,” he said at his shop in Wangsa Maju here, noting that the high demand for headwear services took him by surprise.
\nCurious, he began experimenting on his own hats and those of friends, testing what worked and what did not. As he received positive feedback and his confidence grew, he decided to start his own cleaning and restoration business.
\nAhmad Fadhil picked up techniques from experienced hat cleaners, spent hours watching tutorials online, and developed his own methods over time. Today, he approaches each hat differently, knowing no two are quite the same.
\nMaterial, damage and age all play a role. Some hats need only a careful clean, using specialised fabric soaps and soft brushes to avoid further wear.
\nOthers require more delicate work – reshaping with steam and custom moulds to restore their original form, or repainting by hand for a cleaner, more detailed finish.
\n![\"repair\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/42780093-repair-lifestyle-emelpic-200426.webp\")
“Machines don’t always produce the same results as manual work,” he noted. “Creases in old hats are sometimes easier to fix by hand.”
\nOn average, he restores between 100 and 200 hats a month. Simpler jobs can be completed quickly, while more intricate pieces, especially those involving repainting, can take up to a week.
\nHis clients bring in all kinds of headwear – from vintage caps worth as much as RM1,500 to police, pilot and even cowboy hats – each requiring its own technique and level of care.
\nBut for Ahmad Fadhil, the most meaningful jobs are not always the most expensive ones.
\n“Some customers bring in hats that belonged to their late fathers,” he shared. “They want them restored so they can keep them as mementos.”
\nSeeing their reaction is what keeps him going. “When they come to collect the hat and see the transformation, some are genuinely surprised and overjoyed. That’s the most rewarding part for me.”
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: To most people, an old, faded cap is something to toss aside. For Ahmad Fadhil Nazeri, it is something worth saving.\nThe 29-year-old has built a business out of restoring worn-out hats, bringing them back to life with careful cleaning, reshaping and, sometimes, a complete makeover.\nWhat others see as damaged, he sees as something that still holds meaning – whether as a fashion piece, a collector’s item, or a memory too precious to throw away.\nHis foray into the craft was not planned. In 2018, Ahmad Fadhil was working part-time at a shoe-cleaning shop that also offered hat-cleaning services.\n“The owner asked me to focus on hats while he handled the shoes,” he said at his shop in Wangsa Maju here, noting that the high demand for headwear services took him by surprise.\nCurious, he began experimenting on his own hats and those of friends, testing what worked and what did not. As he received positive feedback and his confidence grew, he decided to start his own cleaning and restoration business.\nAhmad Fadhil picked up techniques from experienced hat cleaners, spent hours watching tutorials online, and developed his own methods over time. Today, he approaches each hat differently, knowing no two are quite the same.\nMaterial, damage and age all play a role. Some hats need only a careful clean, using specialised fabric soaps and soft brushes to avoid further wear.\nOthers require more delicate work – reshaping with steam and custom moulds to restore their original form, or repainting by hand for a cleaner, more detailed finish.\n\n“Machines don’t always produce the same results as manual work,” he noted. “Creases in old hats are sometimes easier to fix by hand.”\nOn average, he restores between 100 and 200 hats a month. Simpler jobs can be completed quickly, while more intricate pieces, especially those involving repainting, can take up to a week.\nHis clients bring in all kinds of headwear – from vintage caps worth as much as RM1,500 to police, pilot and even cowboy hats - each requiring its own technique and level of care.\nBut for Ahmad Fadhil, the most meaningful jobs are not always the most expensive ones.\n“Some customers bring in hats that belonged to their late fathers,” he shared. \"They want them restored so they can keep them as mementos.”\nSeeing their reaction is what keeps him going. “When they come to collect the hat and see the transformation, some are genuinely surprised and overjoyed. That’s the most rewarding part for me.”","date_published":"2026-04-21T00:30:55.000Z","author":{"name":"Bernama"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","craftsman","hat cleaning","Hats","Headwear","heartwarming","inspirational","restoration"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2ef312af-ahmad-lifestyle-emelpic-200426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2ef312af-ahmad-lifestyle-emelpic-200426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/why-more-young-professionals-are-facing-stroke-risk","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/why-more-young-professionals-are-facing-stroke-risk","title":"Why more young professionals are facing stroke risk","summary":"Stroke is increasingly affecting younger Malaysians, with stress and untreated health issues emerging as key contributors.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/5e178958-wheelchair-lifestyle-emelpic-190824.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: Stroke is often seen as a disease of old age. But in hospitals today, that assumption is starting to shift.
\nNeurosurgeons are increasingly treating patients in their 30s and 40s, many of them professionals with demanding careers whose conditions are linked to chronic stress, high blood pressure and undiagnosed health risks.
\nIndeed, more young individuals are presenting with life-threatening brain emergencies, including brain haemorrhage, severe swelling, or aneurysm rupture that may require urgent intervention to prevent permanent disability or death.
\nStroke remains the third leading cause of death in Malaysia, with a significant and growing burden nationwide. In 2019 alone, nearly 48,000 new cases were recorded, alongside close to 20,000 deaths and hundreds of thousands of people living with stroke-related disability.
\nMore concerningly, stroke incidence among adults aged 35-39 has risen sharply in recent years, reflecting the growing impact of lifestyle-related vascular risk factors. The most severe cases often involve bleeding in the brain or dangerous swelling that can rapidly worsen without timely treatment.
\nThe role of stress
\nWhile stroke is commonly associated with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol, chronic stress is emerging as an important contributor, particularly among working adults.
\nProlonged stress can lead to sustained high blood pressure, poor sleep quality and metabolic imbalance. Over time, these factors increase the risk of both ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke.
\nUnfortunately, common symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or fatigue are often mistaken for work-related stress rather than early neurological warning signs.
\nOne of the biggest challenges is that many risk factors develop without obvious symptoms. High blood pressure, in particular, can gradually weaken blood vessels in the brain, increasing the likelihood of intracranial haemorrhage or aneurysm rupture.
\nYet many young professionals remain unaware of these risks until severe complications arise. By the time symptoms appear, the situation may already be critical.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/4e029fd2-medical-checkup-fmt-pic-21625.webp\")
Not all strokes require surgery, but some can escalate rapidly into life-threatening conditions. Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases involving severe brain swelling, significant bleeding, ruptured aneurysms, or fluid buildup in the brain.
\nIn such situations, rapid referral and treatment significantly improve survival and recovery outcomes.
\nWarning signs and prevention
\nEarly recognition is crucial, especially among younger adults who may not consider themselves at risk. Warning signs include:
\nImmediate medical assessment allows doctors to determine whether urgent intervention is required.
\nFrom a clinical perspective, prevention remains the most effective strategy. Monitoring blood pressure regularly is essential, as hypertension is one of the strongest modifiable risk factors for stroke.
\nManaging stress through physical activity, and getting adequate rest and mental health support can also help reduce overall risk.
\nMost importantly, persistent symptoms should not be ignored. As Malaysia’s workforce becomes increasingly fast-paced and high-pressure, protecting brain health must become part of everyday life.
\nThis article was written by Dr Kuha Raj Arumugam, a neurosurgeon at Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: Stroke is often seen as a disease of old age. But in hospitals today, that assumption is starting to shift.\nNeurosurgeons are increasingly treating patients in their 30s and 40s, many of them professionals with demanding careers whose conditions are linked to chronic stress, high blood pressure and undiagnosed health risks.\nIndeed, more young individuals are presenting with life-threatening brain emergencies, including brain haemorrhage, severe swelling, or aneurysm rupture that may require urgent intervention to prevent permanent disability or death.\nStroke remains the third leading cause of death in Malaysia, with a significant and growing burden nationwide. In 2019 alone, nearly 48,000 new cases were recorded, alongside close to 20,000 deaths and hundreds of thousands of people living with stroke-related disability.\nMore concerningly, stroke incidence among adults aged 35-39 has risen sharply in recent years, reflecting the growing impact of lifestyle-related vascular risk factors. The most severe cases often involve bleeding in the brain or dangerous swelling that can rapidly worsen without timely treatment.\nThe role of stress\nWhile stroke is commonly associated with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol, chronic stress is emerging as an important contributor, particularly among working adults.\nProlonged stress can lead to sustained high blood pressure, poor sleep quality and metabolic imbalance. Over time, these factors increase the risk of both ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke.\nUnfortunately, common symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or fatigue are often mistaken for work-related stress rather than early neurological warning signs.\nOne of the biggest challenges is that many risk factors develop without obvious symptoms. High blood pressure, in particular, can gradually weaken blood vessels in the brain, increasing the likelihood of intracranial haemorrhage or aneurysm rupture.\nYet many young professionals remain unaware of these risks until severe complications arise. By the time symptoms appear, the situation may already be critical.\n\nNot all strokes require surgery, but some can escalate rapidly into life-threatening conditions. Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases involving severe brain swelling, significant bleeding, ruptured aneurysms, or fluid buildup in the brain.\nIn such situations, rapid referral and treatment significantly improve survival and recovery outcomes.\nWarning signs and prevention\nEarly recognition is crucial, especially among younger adults who may not consider themselves at risk. Warning signs include:\n\nsudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body;\ndifficulty speaking or understanding speech;\na severe and sudden headache;\nloss of balance or blurred vision.\n\nImmediate medical assessment allows doctors to determine whether urgent intervention is required.\nFrom a clinical perspective, prevention remains the most effective strategy. Monitoring blood pressure regularly is essential, as hypertension is one of the strongest modifiable risk factors for stroke.\nManaging stress through physical activity, and getting adequate rest and mental health support can also help reduce overall risk.\nMost importantly, persistent symptoms should not be ignored. As Malaysia’s workforce becomes increasingly fast-paced and high-pressure, protecting brain health must become part of everyday life.\nThis article was written by Dr Kuha Raj Arumugam, a neurosurgeon at Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital.","date_published":"2026-04-21T00:00:14.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Health & Family","Top Lifestyle","aneurysms","Brain health","employees","health","healthcare","medical","stress","strokes"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/5e178958-wheelchair-lifestyle-emelpic-190824.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/5e178958-wheelchair-lifestyle-emelpic-190824.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/beyond-social-media-ban-guiding-children-online-starts-at-home","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/beyond-social-media-ban-guiding-children-online-starts-at-home","title":"Beyond social media ban, guiding children online starts at home","summary":"Malaysia’s under-16 access plan highlights the need for parents to move from monitoring to mentoring, experts say.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/693c6d6f-family-with-laptop-envato-elements-pic-200426.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: Plans to delay social media access for children under 16 may soon come into place in Malaysia, but for many parents, the real work is already happening at home.
\nRather than relying solely on restrictions, experts say the bigger opportunity lies in how families engage with the digital world together.
\nFor counselling psychologist Mohamed Fadzil Che Din, the conversation goes beyond filters and screen time limits. Used thoughtfully, technology can become a shared space for learning and connection, rather than a “digital babysitter”.
\n“It’s not just about controlling access, it’s about guiding children to understand what they see and how they respond to it,” he told Bernama.
\nPsychologically speaking, children naturally form impressions based on their online experiences – both good and bad. Without guidance, those impressions can shape their behaviour in unintended ways.
\nThat is why, he said, parental involvement matters just as much as technical safeguards.
\n“Protection comes from having the right controls in place and being actively involved in a child’s digital life,” he explained, noting that such involvement plays a role in shaping a child’s character over time.
\nHe said beyond learning how to navigate apps and platforms, children need support in developing confidence, judgement and motivation: skills that will help them make better decisions both online and offline.
\nYet, at the same time, social media itself has become difficult to ignore. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp are no longer just for entertainment – they also serve as spaces for learning, communication, and exposure to new ideas.
\nFor today’s children, growing up online is part of growing up, full stop. This makes guidance, rather than avoidance, all the more important.
\nFor Amira Azman, a mother of two, that balance is something she navigates every day. She welcomes efforts to introduce age limits but believes responsibility ultimately rests with parents.
\n“A filter can block a website, but it cannot teach a child how to handle a predator who uses normal language,” she said.
\nThere have been moments when her children encountered unsuitable content – situations she chose to address through conversation, alongside adjusting device settings.
\nBut it is not always easy. “By the time I understand one app, they have moved to a new platform I have never heard of,” she added. “There is also immense peer pressure for them to stay connected 24/7.”
\nThis reality has pushed her to rethink her approach: instead of trying to monitor everything, she focuses on staying involved by talking, listening, and helping her children make sense of what they encounter online.
\nExperts stress that this shift from monitoring to mentoring is key. While policies and regulations can provide a useful safety net, they are only part of a broader system of protection.
\nSchools, platforms and communities all have a role to play – and at the centre of it is the relationship between parent and child.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: Plans to delay social media access for children under 16 may soon come into place in Malaysia, but for many parents, the real work is already happening at home.\nRather than relying solely on restrictions, experts say the bigger opportunity lies in how families engage with the digital world together.\nFor counselling psychologist Mohamed Fadzil Che Din, the conversation goes beyond filters and screen time limits. Used thoughtfully, technology can become a shared space for learning and connection, rather than a “digital babysitter”.\n“It’s not just about controlling access, it’s about guiding children to understand what they see and how they respond to it,\" he told Bernama.\nPsychologically speaking, children naturally form impressions based on their online experiences - both good and bad. Without guidance, those impressions can shape their behaviour in unintended ways.\nThat is why, he said, parental involvement matters just as much as technical safeguards.\n“Protection comes from having the right controls in place and being actively involved in a child’s digital life,” he explained, noting that such involvement plays a role in shaping a child’s character over time.\nHe said beyond learning how to navigate apps and platforms, children need support in developing confidence, judgement and motivation: skills that will help them make better decisions both online and offline.\nYet, at the same time, social media itself has become difficult to ignore. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp are no longer just for entertainment - they also serve as spaces for learning, communication, and exposure to new ideas.\nFor today’s children, growing up online is part of growing up, full stop. This makes guidance, rather than avoidance, all the more important.\nFor Amira Azman, a mother of two, that balance is something she navigates every day. She welcomes efforts to introduce age limits but believes responsibility ultimately rests with parents.\n“A filter can block a website, but it cannot teach a child how to handle a predator who uses normal language,” she said.\nThere have been moments when her children encountered unsuitable content - situations she chose to address through conversation, alongside adjusting device settings.\nBut it is not always easy. “By the time I understand one app, they have moved to a new platform I have never heard of,” she added. \"There is also immense peer pressure for them to stay connected 24/7.”\nThis reality has pushed her to rethink her approach: instead of trying to monitor everything, she focuses on staying involved by talking, listening, and helping her children make sense of what they encounter online.\nExperts stress that this shift from monitoring to mentoring is key. While policies and regulations can provide a useful safety net, they are only part of a broader system of protection.\nSchools, platforms and communities all have a role to play - and at the centre of it is the relationship between parent and child.","date_published":"2026-04-20T23:30:44.000Z","author":{"name":"Bernama"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Health & Family","Tech","Top Lifestyle","children","family","learning","online","parenting","regulations","social media","tech"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/693c6d6f-family-with-laptop-envato-elements-pic-200426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/693c6d6f-family-with-laptop-envato-elements-pic-200426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/a-barking-good-time-as-dogs-run-riot-at-dogathon-2026","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/21/a-barking-good-time-as-dogs-run-riot-at-dogathon-2026","title":"A barking good time as dogs run riot at Dogathon 2026","summary":"Organised by UPM’s veterinary medicine students and supported by FMT Lifestyle, pets and their humans had a time of their lives.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/35a4c100-race.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: The sun had not yet risen, but the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) was already buzzing – or rather, barking – with excitement last Saturday.
\nDogs of all sizes filled the ground, trotting about in booties and colourful outfits. Others arrived in pet strollers fitted with fans to keep them cool – while one made its way through the crowd in a wheelchair.
\nIt was Dogathon 2026, and it was hard to tell who was more thrilled: the canines or their humans.
\nOrganised by the Veternak Club – the student council of UPM’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine – and supported by FMT Lifestyle, the 26th edition of the event carried a playful “Jurapaws” theme.
\n\nSome dogs fully embraced the theme, becoming dinosaurs for the day in their fancy costumes.
\nThe highlight of the day was the “Dog Race”, a fun run spanning over 1.3km. While some dogs were raring to go even before flag-off, others needed a little encouragement from their humans.
\nDespite it being a race, a few dogs opted for a leisurely trot instead, drawing laughter from onlookers.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f03715df-pdrmk9.webp\")
Another crowd favourite was a demonstration by three K9 dogs from the Royal Malaysia Police, who showcased their discipline and keen ability to detect drugs.
\nOne particularly amusing moment came when the handlers gave the command “diam”, signalling the dogs to stay still and be quiet.
\nBut one dog in the crowd objected to this, barking right after the command, sending everyone into peals of laughter.
\nVisitors also enjoyed themselves at the “Pawfect Memories” station, where snapshots of their pets were turned into magnets. Many dogs also had a chance to flex their muscles at the “Pawventure Gym”, which featured fun obstacle activities for dogs and their humans.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/523aeb61-dogpurple.webp\")
A familiar face at this year’s event was Charles, a golden retriever returning for his third Dogathon. His furmum, Aileen Wee, shared that they set off from their home in Melaka at 4am just to make it on time for the day’s adventures.
\n“I wanted him to experience it again because he loved the race last year,” said Wee, 41.
\nIn a heartwarming moment, Charles appeared to recognise this writer despite last seeing her about a year ago, greeting her with a wagging tail and a curious sniff.
\n“Events like this are very good as it gives dogs an opportunity to socialise,” added Wee.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ecb5b577-jurapaws.webp\")
A similar sentiment was shared by sisters Naadhiya and Jhanani Sivakumar, who were there with their pets, Olaf and Muni. Incidentally, they had learnt about Dogathon through FMT’s earlier coverage of the event.
\n“As pet owners, we don’t always know where we can bring our dogs or what we can do with them because of certain restrictions.
\n“That’s why something like this is nice. You get to meet other dog owners, talk to them, see different breeds and learn more about them, all in one place,” said Naadhiya, 35.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/8eb32a7e-sunglasses.webp\")
Jhanani, who participated in the “Dog Race” with Muni, said she enjoyed seeing how happy he was in his first-ever race.
\n“He was so good and although we didn’t train him, I was surprised he could jump the hurdles and go through the tunnel,” said Jhanani, referring to the obstacle course segment of the race.
\n“We synchronised so well. I was so touched that when I slowed down, he also slowed down to wait for me. He was so sweet,” added Jhanani, 32.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/8e455cdc-womanblue.webp\")
Angel Chen, 24, felt the same way. “I believe the ‘Dog Race’ helps create a stronger bond between dogs and their humans,” said Chen, who arrived just after 6am with her dogs, Leo and Ollie.
\n“I really hope Malaysia can have more events like this because we want our dogs to enjoy more outdoor activities. It was a good day out for our dogs,” Chen concluded.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: The sun had not yet risen, but the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) was already buzzing - or rather, barking - with excitement last Saturday.\nDogs of all sizes filled the ground, trotting about in booties and colourful outfits. Others arrived in pet strollers fitted with fans to keep them cool - while one made its way through the crowd in a wheelchair.\nIt was Dogathon 2026, and it was hard to tell who was more thrilled: the canines or their humans.\nOrganised by the Veternak Club - the student council of UPM’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - and supported by FMT Lifestyle, the 26th edition of the event carried a playful “Jurapaws” theme.\n\nSome dogs fully embraced the theme, becoming dinosaurs for the day in their fancy costumes.\nThe highlight of the day was the “Dog Race”, a fun run spanning over 1.3km. While some dogs were raring to go even before flag-off, others needed a little encouragement from their humans.\nDespite it being a race, a few dogs opted for a leisurely trot instead, drawing laughter from onlookers.\n\nAnother crowd favourite was a demonstration by three K9 dogs from the Royal Malaysia Police, who showcased their discipline and keen ability to detect drugs.\nOne particularly amusing moment came when the handlers gave the command “diam”, signalling the dogs to stay still and be quiet.\nBut one dog in the crowd objected to this, barking right after the command, sending everyone into peals of laughter.\nVisitors also enjoyed themselves at the “Pawfect Memories” station, where snapshots of their pets were turned into magnets. Many dogs also had a chance to flex their muscles at the “Pawventure Gym”, which featured fun obstacle activities for dogs and their humans.\n\nA familiar face at this year’s event was Charles, a golden retriever returning for his third Dogathon. His furmum, Aileen Wee, shared that they set off from their home in Melaka at 4am just to make it on time for the day's adventures.\n“I wanted him to experience it again because he loved the race last year,” said Wee, 41.\nIn a heartwarming moment, Charles appeared to recognise this writer despite last seeing her about a year ago, greeting her with a wagging tail and a curious sniff.\n“Events like this are very good as it gives dogs an opportunity to socialise,” added Wee.\n\nA similar sentiment was shared by sisters Naadhiya and Jhanani Sivakumar, who were there with their pets, Olaf and Muni. Incidentally, they had learnt about Dogathon through FMT’s earlier coverage of the event.\n“As pet owners, we don’t always know where we can bring our dogs or what we can do with them because of certain restrictions.\n“That’s why something like this is nice. You get to meet other dog owners, talk to them, see different breeds and learn more about them, all in one place,” said Naadhiya, 35.\n\nJhanani, who participated in the “Dog Race” with Muni, said she enjoyed seeing how happy he was in his first-ever race.\n“He was so good and although we didn’t train him, I was surprised he could jump the hurdles and go through the tunnel,” said Jhanani, referring to the obstacle course segment of the race.\n“We synchronised so well. I was so touched that when I slowed down, he also slowed down to wait for me. He was so sweet,” added Jhanani, 32.\n\nAngel Chen, 24, felt the same way. “I believe the ‘Dog Race’ helps create a stronger bond between dogs and their humans,” said Chen, who arrived just after 6am with her dogs, Leo and Ollie.\n“I really hope Malaysia can have more events like this because we want our dogs to enjoy more outdoor activities. It was a good day out for our dogs,” Chen concluded.","date_published":"2026-04-20T23:00:14.000Z","author":{"name":"Sheela Vijayan @ FMT Lifestyle"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Pets","Top Lifestyle","Animals","Dogathon","dogs","pets","UPM","veterinary science"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/35a4c100-race.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/35a4c100-race.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/msian-actress-fish-liew-takes-top-acting-honour-at-hong-kong-film-awards","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/msian-actress-fish-liew-takes-top-acting-honour-at-hong-kong-film-awards","title":"M’sian actress Fish Liew takes top acting honour at Hong Kong Film Awards","summary":"This is the latest recognition for the Johor-born performer's role in 'Someone Like Me', in which she plays a woman living with cerebral palsy.","content_html":"![\"fish](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/c64308ca-lifestyle-fish-emel-pic-200426.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian-born actress and model Fish Liew has added another major accolade to her list of achievements by winning Best Actress at the 44th Hong Kong Film Awards on Sunday.
\nThe Johor-born took home the top prize for her role in Tam Wai-ching’s “Someone Like Me”, in which she plays Ah Mui, a woman living with cerebral palsy.
\nHer performance, widely described as nuanced and deeply empathetic, saw her edge out a strong field of nominees including Ma Li, Natalie Hsu, Fala Chen and international star Zhang Ziyi.
\nFor Liew, 36, the win marks a significant milestone in a career that has steadily gained momentum in Hong Kong’s film industry.
\nShe first rose to prominence with supporting roles before breaking through with her award-winning turn in the 2021 biopic “Anita”, in which she played the sister of Cantopop legend Anita Mui.
\nThat role earned her a Best Supporting Actress prize at the same awards in 2022.
\nBorn in Malaysia and raised in Johor Bahru, Liew moved to Hong Kong to pursue acting and gradually built a reputation for taking on emotionally complex roles.
\nOver the years, she has become known for her versatility, moving between independent productions and mainstream films while earning critical acclaim for her performances.
\nHer role in “Someone Like Me” – which explores themes of dignity, independence, and how society perceives disability – is seen as one of her most demanding to date. Rather than leaning into stereotypes, the film delves into Ah Mui’s inner world, desires and relationships, including with Ken (Carlos Chan).
\nLiew reportedly spent time understanding the physical and emotional realities of living with cerebral palsy in preparing for the part.
\n![\"ahmui](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/41e64869-lifestyle-ahmui-emel-pic-200426.webp\")
“Someone Like Me” has already been recognised on the awards circuit, with Liew previously winning Best Actress at the Hong Kong Film Critics Society Awards in January, and the Hong Kong Film Directors’ Guild Awards for the same role.
\nLiew took to Instagram after her latest win, sharing her appreciation with fans and collaborators. “Thank you to the Hong Kong Film Directors’ Guild for presenting me with this award,” she wrote.
\nShe also dedicated the award to her parents for their support.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian-born actress and model Fish Liew has added another major accolade to her list of achievements by winning Best Actress at the 44th Hong Kong Film Awards on Sunday.\nThe Johor-born took home the top prize for her role in Tam Wai-ching's \"Someone Like Me\", in which she plays Ah Mui, a woman living with cerebral palsy.\nHer performance, widely described as nuanced and deeply empathetic, saw her edge out a strong field of nominees including Ma Li, Natalie Hsu, Fala Chen and international star Zhang Ziyi.\nFor Liew, 36, the win marks a significant milestone in a career that has steadily gained momentum in Hong Kong’s film industry.\nShe first rose to prominence with supporting roles before breaking through with her award-winning turn in the 2021 biopic \"Anita\", in which she played the sister of Cantopop legend Anita Mui.\nThat role earned her a Best Supporting Actress prize at the same awards in 2022.\nBorn in Malaysia and raised in Johor Bahru, Liew moved to Hong Kong to pursue acting and gradually built a reputation for taking on emotionally complex roles.\nOver the years, she has become known for her versatility, moving between independent productions and mainstream films while earning critical acclaim for her performances.\nHer role in \"Someone Like Me\" - which explores themes of dignity, independence, and how society perceives disability - is seen as one of her most demanding to date. Rather than leaning into stereotypes, the film delves into Ah Mui's inner world, desires and relationships, including with Ken (Carlos Chan).\nLiew reportedly spent time understanding the physical and emotional realities of living with cerebral palsy in preparing for the part.\n\n\"Someone Like Me\" has already been recognised on the awards circuit, with Liew previously winning Best Actress at the Hong Kong Film Critics Society Awards in January, and the Hong Kong Film Directors’ Guild Awards for the same role.\nLiew took to Instagram after her latest win, sharing her appreciation with fans and collaborators. \"Thank you to the Hong Kong Film Directors’ Guild for presenting me with this award,\" she wrote.\nShe also dedicated the award to her parents for their support.","date_published":"2026-04-20T10:33:29.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","actress","Fish Liew","Hong Kong Film Awards","Malaysian actors"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/c64308ca-lifestyle-fish-emel-pic-200426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/c64308ca-lifestyle-fish-emel-pic-200426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/actor-rebel-wilson-faces-defamation-case-in-australian-court-over-social-media-posts","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/actor-rebel-wilson-faces-defamation-case-in-australian-court-over-social-media-posts","title":"Rebel Wilson faces defamation case in Australia over Instagram posts","summary":"Wilson is said to have suggested that 'The Deb' actor Charlotte MacInnes had confided in her, and then lied, over harassment claims.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/0b80fcb7-rebel-wilson-epa-20_04_26.webp\")
SYDNEY: Australian actor Rebel Wilson appeared in a Sydney court on Monday at the start of a defamation case brought by Charlotte MacInnes over allegations linked to a series of social media posts made by Wilson.
\nMacInnes, lead actor in Wilson’s directorial debut “The Deb”, claims Wilson falsely suggested on Instagram that she had privately confided in her about being sexually harassed by one of the film’s producers.
\nCourt filings allege Wilson, the star of three “Pitch Perfect” movies and “Bridesmaids”, failed to seek verification from MacInnes and made the claims despite knowing no complaint had been made.
\nThe posts allegedly implied that MacInnes had lied when she denied discussing harassment or inappropriate behaviour by producers on “The Deb”.
\nWhile Wilson, who has over 11 million followers on Instagram, has denied the claims, her legal defence has not been disclosed.
\nMacInnes, who was also in court for the hearing, is seeking aggravated damages and a court order preventing Wilson from repeating the allegations online or elsewhere.
\nWilson also alleged in the July 2024 posts that executive producer Vince Holden, along with producers Amanda Ghost and Gregor Cameron, attempted to block the film’s premiere in retaliation for her raising concerns about the alleged misconduct, according to reports in Australian media.
\nA separate lawsuit was filed against Wilson by “The Deb” producers in a US court and a court in New South Wales, reports said.
\n“The Deb”, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024, faced delays in its Australian theatrical release earlier this month due to the legal issues.
\n“I love ‘The Deb’, I mean, it’s so cute and amazing. Thank you to everyone who’s going to the cinemas,” Wilson told reporters outside the court.
\nThe hearing for the defamation case is expected to last nine days.
\n","content_text":"SYDNEY: Australian actor Rebel Wilson appeared in a Sydney court on Monday at the start of a defamation case brought by Charlotte MacInnes over allegations linked to a series of social media posts made by Wilson.\nMacInnes, lead actor in Wilson's directorial debut \"The Deb\", claims Wilson falsely suggested on Instagram that she had privately confided in her about being sexually harassed by one of the film's producers.\nCourt filings allege Wilson, the star of three \"Pitch Perfect\" movies and \"Bridesmaids\", failed to seek verification from MacInnes and made the claims despite knowing no complaint had been made.\nThe posts allegedly implied that MacInnes had lied when she denied discussing harassment or inappropriate behaviour by producers on \"The Deb\".\nWhile Wilson, who has over 11 million followers on Instagram, has denied the claims, her legal defence has not been disclosed.\nMacInnes, who was also in court for the hearing, is seeking aggravated damages and a court order preventing Wilson from repeating the allegations online or elsewhere.\nWilson also alleged in the July 2024 posts that executive producer Vince Holden, along with producers Amanda Ghost and Gregor Cameron, attempted to block the film's premiere in retaliation for her raising concerns about the alleged misconduct, according to reports in Australian media.\nA separate lawsuit was filed against Wilson by \"The Deb\" producers in a US court and a court in New South Wales, reports said.\n\"The Deb\", which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024, faced delays in its Australian theatrical release earlier this month due to the legal issues.\n\"I love 'The Deb', I mean, it's so cute and amazing. Thank you to everyone who's going to the cinemas,\" Wilson told reporters outside the court.\nThe hearing for the defamation case is expected to last nine days.","date_published":"2026-04-20T04:25:54.000Z","author":{"name":"Reuters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","actor","Australia","case","defamation","posts","Rebel Wilson","social media"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/0b80fcb7-rebel-wilson-epa-20_04_26.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/0b80fcb7-rebel-wilson-epa-20_04_26.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/20/number-of-seniors-living-alone-up-3-fold-since-2018-says-survey","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/20/number-of-seniors-living-alone-up-3-fold-since-2018-says-survey","title":"Number of seniors living alone up 3-fold since 2018, says survey","summary":"Health ministry says 18.8% of those aged 60 and above now live alone, up from 6.3% in 2018.","content_html":"![\"warga\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/d88e33c9-olk-folk-warga-emas-orang-tua-bernama-270424.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: The number of elderly Malaysians living alone has nearly tripled since 2018, according to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2025 released today.
\nThe health ministry said 18.8% of those aged 60 and above now live alone, up from 6.3% in 2018.
\nDespite the increase, the survey found that 61.3% of seniors living alone still reported strong levels of social support.
\nAccording to the findings, only 14.7% of elderly Malaysians meet the criteria for “successful ageing”, defined as having strong social support, no cognitive impairment or depression, independence in daily activities, and no chronic illnesses or well-controlled conditions.
\nThe report also highlighted a high prevalence of chronic diseases among the elderly, with 73% having hypertension, 76% high cholesterol, and 39% diabetes.
\nIt said 68% of elderly Malaysians have at least two of these three chronic conditions, while 30% have all three.
\nOn mental health, 9.8% of elderly Malaysians were found to have dementia, slightly higher than in 2018, while the prevalence of depression declined to 8.0% from 11.2%.
\nThe survey also showed that 30.6% of seniors are physically inactive, while 12.8% exhibit high levels of sedentary behaviour.
\nIt added that 45.3% of elderly Malaysians have sarcopenia, while 60% are at risk of frailty and 10.7% are already classified as frail.
\nSarcopenia refers to age-related decline in muscle mass, strength, and physical performance.
\nThe ministry said the findings would guide the development of health policies for the elderly in line with national frameworks, including the National Ageing Blueprint and the National Dementia Action Plan 2023-2030.
\nIt added that all stakeholders must prepare for the challenges of an ageing population by 2036 and work together to improve the quality of life of elderly Malaysians, with the aim of achieving successful ageing.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: The number of elderly Malaysians living alone has nearly tripled since 2018, according to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2025 released today.\nThe health ministry said 18.8% of those aged 60 and above now live alone, up from 6.3% in 2018.\nDespite the increase, the survey found that 61.3% of seniors living alone still reported strong levels of social support.\nAccording to the findings, only 14.7% of elderly Malaysians meet the criteria for \"successful ageing\", defined as having strong social support, no cognitive impairment or depression, independence in daily activities, and no chronic illnesses or well-controlled conditions.\nThe report also highlighted a high prevalence of chronic diseases among the elderly, with 73% having hypertension, 76% high cholesterol, and 39% diabetes.\nIt said 68% of elderly Malaysians have at least two of these three chronic conditions, while 30% have all three.\nOn mental health, 9.8% of elderly Malaysians were found to have dementia, slightly higher than in 2018, while the prevalence of depression declined to 8.0% from 11.2%.\nThe survey also showed that 30.6% of seniors are physically inactive, while 12.8% exhibit high levels of sedentary behaviour.\nIt added that 45.3% of elderly Malaysians have sarcopenia, while 60% are at risk of frailty and 10.7% are already classified as frail.\nSarcopenia refers to age-related decline in muscle mass, strength, and physical performance.\nThe ministry said the findings would guide the development of health policies for the elderly in line with national frameworks, including the National Ageing Blueprint and the National Dementia Action Plan 2023-2030.\nIt added that all stakeholders must prepare for the challenges of an ageing population by 2036 and work together to improve the quality of life of elderly Malaysians, with the aim of achieving successful ageing.","date_published":"2026-04-20T04:00:00.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Highlight","Top News","Malaysia","Lifestyle","Health & Family","Ageing Society","depression","elderly","Health Ministry","NHMS","survey"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/d88e33c9-olk-folk-warga-emas-orang-tua-bernama-270424.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/d88e33c9-olk-folk-warga-emas-orang-tua-bernama-270424.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/whos-bad-not-michael-jackson-in-new-big-budget-biopic","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/whos-bad-not-michael-jackson-in-new-big-budget-biopic","title":"Who’s Bad? Not Michael Jackson in new big-budget biopic","summary":"'Michael' depicts the moonwalking megastar’s rise from Gary, Indiana, to his iconic Bad World Tour shows.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/9cab0611-jaafar-jackson-20042026.webp\")
PARIS: A new Michael Jackson biopic will shortly arrive in cinemas telling the story of the King of Pop’s early career, but it’s a tightly controlled story that avoids any reference to the child sex abuse allegations that dogged his later life.
\nTitled “Michael” and beset by production and legal problems, it spans his childhood in Gary, Indiana, and climaxes with the moonwalking megastar performing in London during his Bad World Tour.
\nDistributors Lionsgate are hoping for global revenues of US$700 million from a production budget of US$200 million, which would push it close to the US$910 million earned by “Bohemian Rhapsody” in 2018 – a record for a musical biopic.
\nMade by the same producer as the Queen biopic “Bohemian Rhapsody”, Graham King, it features Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson in the main role, a 29-year-old with no previous acting experience.
\n“They threw me right in the deep end,” Jaafar told US talk show host Jimmy Fallon earlier this month, adding that he had been helped with the dancing by his uncle’s real-life choreographers.
\n“It was really a surreal, spiritual moment,” he said of playing one of the most recognisable characters in pop music.
\n‘Controlled narrative’
\nJaafar Jackson delivers a strong performance as the gloved and thrusting singer, while the concert scenes are sure to delight fans of the “Thriller” and “Bad” albums.
\nAt the Berlin premiere on April 10, Jackson’s sons Prince and Bigi were joined on the red carpet by his brother Jermaine – Jaafar’s father.
\nAll the surviving Jackson siblings are credited as executive producers, meaning they all had a right to review the film before its global release from Wednesday.
\nBut the involvement of the family has led to accusations that the film sugar-coats the image of a man who was dogged by sexual abuse allegations before his death by overdose in 2009, aged 50.
\nHis daughter Paris, who had no involvement, has been one of the most outspoken critics.
\n“A big section of the film panders to a very specific section of my dad’s fandom that still lives in the fantasy, and they’re gonna be happy with it,” the actress and singer wrote on Instagram last September.
\n“The narrative is being controlled and there’s a lot of inaccuracy and there’s a lot of just full-blown lies.”
\n‘Human story’
\nA third of the original film, exploring allegations against the star, had to be cut and re-shot.
\nLawyers for the Jackson estate realised there was a clause in a settlement with one of the singer’s accusers, Jordan Chandler, that barred any mention of him in a film, Variety film magazine reported.
\nAlthough Jackson was never convicted in criminal or civil court, other alleged victims filed lawsuits after his death, several of which are still active.
\nThe film was originally scheduled for release on April 18, 2025 before being pushed back by a year.
\nSeveral documentaries, including 2003’s “Living with Michael Jackson” and 2019’s “Leaving Neverland”, focused on his habit of inviting children to spend nights with him.
\n“I would love for the film to tell the most human story about Michael Jackson possible,” Mark Anthony Neal, professor of African and African American Studies at Duke University, told AFP recently.
\n“But I also realise that we’re in a period of time where Hollywood does not deal with celebrities in that way.”
\nThe film is almost certain to give another boost to the money-spinning family franchise.
\n“MJ: The Musical” opened on Broadway in 2022 and has been staged in other countries, while the Cirque du Soleil production “Michael Jackson ONE” has been running in Las Vegas since 2013.
\n","content_text":"PARIS: A new Michael Jackson biopic will shortly arrive in cinemas telling the story of the King of Pop's early career, but it's a tightly controlled story that avoids any reference to the child sex abuse allegations that dogged his later life.\nTitled \"Michael\" and beset by production and legal problems, it spans his childhood in Gary, Indiana, and climaxes with the moonwalking megastar performing in London during his Bad World Tour.\nDistributors Lionsgate are hoping for global revenues of US$700 million from a production budget of US$200 million, which would push it close to the US$910 million earned by \"Bohemian Rhapsody\" in 2018 – a record for a musical biopic.\nMade by the same producer as the Queen biopic \"Bohemian Rhapsody\", Graham King, it features Jackson's nephew Jaafar Jackson in the main role, a 29-year-old with no previous acting experience.\n\"They threw me right in the deep end,\" Jaafar told US talk show host Jimmy Fallon earlier this month, adding that he had been helped with the dancing by his uncle's real-life choreographers.\n\"It was really a surreal, spiritual moment,\" he said of playing one of the most recognisable characters in pop music.\n'Controlled narrative'\nJaafar Jackson delivers a strong performance as the gloved and thrusting singer, while the concert scenes are sure to delight fans of the \"Thriller\" and \"Bad\" albums.\nAt the Berlin premiere on April 10, Jackson's sons Prince and Bigi were joined on the red carpet by his brother Jermaine – Jaafar's father.\nAll the surviving Jackson siblings are credited as executive producers, meaning they all had a right to review the film before its global release from Wednesday.\nBut the involvement of the family has led to accusations that the film sugar-coats the image of a man who was dogged by sexual abuse allegations before his death by overdose in 2009, aged 50.\nHis daughter Paris, who had no involvement, has been one of the most outspoken critics.\n\"A big section of the film panders to a very specific section of my dad's fandom that still lives in the fantasy, and they're gonna be happy with it,\" the actress and singer wrote on Instagram last September.\n\"The narrative is being controlled and there's a lot of inaccuracy and there's a lot of just full-blown lies.\"\n'Human story'\nA third of the original film, exploring allegations against the star, had to be cut and re-shot.\nLawyers for the Jackson estate realised there was a clause in a settlement with one of the singer's accusers, Jordan Chandler, that barred any mention of him in a film, Variety film magazine reported.\nAlthough Jackson was never convicted in criminal or civil court, other alleged victims filed lawsuits after his death, several of which are still active.\nThe film was originally scheduled for release on April 18, 2025 before being pushed back by a year.\nSeveral documentaries, including 2003's \"Living with Michael Jackson\" and 2019's \"Leaving Neverland\", focused on his habit of inviting children to spend nights with him.\n\"I would love for the film to tell the most human story about Michael Jackson possible,\" Mark Anthony Neal, professor of African and African American Studies at Duke University, told AFP recently.\n\"But I also realise that we're in a period of time where Hollywood does not deal with celebrities in that way.\"\nThe film is almost certain to give another boost to the money-spinning family franchise.\n\"MJ: The Musical\" opened on Broadway in 2022 and has been staged in other countries, while the Cirque du Soleil production \"Michael Jackson ONE\" has been running in Las Vegas since 2013.","date_published":"2026-04-20T02:25:14.000Z","author":{"name":"AFP"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","biopic film","Entertainment News","film controversy","Hollywood film","Jaafar Jackson","king of pop","Michael Jackson","michael movie","music biopic","pop music"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/9cab0611-jaafar-jackson-20042026.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/9cab0611-jaafar-jackson-20042026.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/helmy-builds-app-to-connect-creatives-with-clients","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/helmy-builds-app-to-connect-creatives-with-clients","title":"Helmy builds app to connect creatives with clients","summary":"Through One Click Hub, Muhamed Helmy Samsudeen is making it easier for creative-industry players to get seen and secure work.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/313fb7ee-muhamed-helmy-samsudeen-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: For many creative professionals, the hardest part isn’t the work itself – it’s finding the work, a challenge that often feels like an uphill battle.
\nTo help make things right, Penang-based photographer Muhamed Helmy Samsudeen built One Click Hub, a mobile app that allows creative professionals to showcase their portfolios, promote their services and connect directly with customers.
\n“The main struggle is visibility. Connecting well with customers depends on how we approach and present ourselves. But first, we need to be known,” Helmy told FMT Lifestyle.
\nThis is especially true for those new to the industry without strong portfolios to open doors. It was a reality Helmy himself faced in his early days as a photographer.
\n“I’m very grateful to my first few customers who trusted me to take their pictures,” he recalled.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/6fb113b6-one-click-hub-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp\")
While the app is slated for its official launch on April 27, it has already gained traction, with 108 service providers already signed up since its soft launch in August 2024.
\nThese, Helmy shared, include photographers, videographers, hair stylists, deejays, emcees, henna and make-up artists, among others.
\n“The app is currently available for download on Android devices, including through Huawei’s AppGallery. We are awaiting approval for it to be listed on Apple’s App Store,” said Helmy, 31.
\nFor now, the platform focuses on Penang-based creatives, although Helmy hopes to expand its reach across Malaysia in time. The public can browse and connect with them from anywhere.
\nRather than handling payments, One Click Hub acts as a bridge between service providers and customers. However, documents such as invoices and receipts must be uploaded to the app to keep transactions transparent and organised.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f04caa53-convocation-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp\")
Currently, the platform is free for entrepreneurs to use, with plans to introduce a RM19 monthly subscription for creative professionals in the future. Even so, Helmy hopes to secure government support to keep it free. The app will remain free for members of the public.
\nHelmy’s interest in photography was sparked in primary school, when his father gave him a Handycam. Before long, he was capturing glimpses of everyday life – from Hari Raya gatherings to family holidays.
\nOver time, that interest deepened. In secondary school, he joined a photography club, and later, in university, he started one himself.
\nIn August 2019, he founded Helmy Sam Photography, offering photography and videography services for weddings, engagements, convocations and other events.
\n“I feel it’s a blessing to be there with them and capture their special moments,” he shared.
\nAs his career progressed, Helmy noticed recurring challenges among freelancers. Many relied on Facebook groups to find work, where a single job post could draw overwhelming responses – often leading to underpricing and wasted effort.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/df843b05-couple-engagement-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp\")
This planted the seed for One Click Hub. The idea was further shaped in early 2024 through conversations with former Penang executive councillor Abdul Halim Hussain, whom Helmy considers a mentor.
\nImmediately after that conversation, Helmy recalled, he began working on the concept for the app, starting with notes on paper before working with a small team to develop a prototype.
\nToday, the app is not the only thing that keeps him busy. He is also building a presence in the local film industry, serving as a creative producer, second director and official photographer of an upcoming film titled “Mamu The Movie”.
\nSlated for release at the end of the year, the heartwarming film tells the story of a father’s sacrifices for his family.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/669ef7d9-helmy-sam-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp\")
Despite juggling multiple roles, Helmy remains clear about what he envisions for One Click Hub. “I hope that people will turn to this app when they need creative services, especially for government events.”
\nMore importantly, his vision goes beyond himself. “It’s not about individual success – I want everyone to move forward together,” he concluded.
\nLearn more about Helmy Sam Photography on Instagram.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: For many creative professionals, the hardest part isn’t the work itself - it’s finding the work, a challenge that often feels like an uphill battle.\nTo help make things right, Penang-based photographer Muhamed Helmy Samsudeen built One Click Hub, a mobile app that allows creative professionals to showcase their portfolios, promote their services and connect directly with customers.\n“The main struggle is visibility. Connecting well with customers depends on how we approach and present ourselves. But first, we need to be known,” Helmy told FMT Lifestyle.\nThis is especially true for those new to the industry without strong portfolios to open doors. It was a reality Helmy himself faced in his early days as a photographer.\n“I’m very grateful to my first few customers who trusted me to take their pictures,” he recalled.\n\nWhile the app is slated for its official launch on April 27, it has already gained traction, with 108 service providers already signed up since its soft launch in August 2024.\nThese, Helmy shared, include photographers, videographers, hair stylists, deejays, emcees, henna and make-up artists, among others.\n“The app is currently available for download on Android devices, including through Huawei’s AppGallery. We are awaiting approval for it to be listed on Apple’s App Store,” said Helmy, 31.\nFor now, the platform focuses on Penang-based creatives, although Helmy hopes to expand its reach across Malaysia in time. The public can browse and connect with them from anywhere.\nRather than handling payments, One Click Hub acts as a bridge between service providers and customers. However, documents such as invoices and receipts must be uploaded to the app to keep transactions transparent and organised.\n\nCurrently, the platform is free for entrepreneurs to use, with plans to introduce a RM19 monthly subscription for creative professionals in the future. Even so, Helmy hopes to secure government support to keep it free. The app will remain free for members of the public.\nHelmy’s interest in photography was sparked in primary school, when his father gave him a Handycam. Before long, he was capturing glimpses of everyday life - from Hari Raya gatherings to family holidays.\nOver time, that interest deepened. In secondary school, he joined a photography club, and later, in university, he started one himself.\nIn August 2019, he founded Helmy Sam Photography, offering photography and videography services for weddings, engagements, convocations and other events.\n“I feel it’s a blessing to be there with them and capture their special moments,” he shared.\nAs his career progressed, Helmy noticed recurring challenges among freelancers. Many relied on Facebook groups to find work, where a single job post could draw overwhelming responses - often leading to underpricing and wasted effort.\n\nThis planted the seed for One Click Hub. The idea was further shaped in early 2024 through conversations with former Penang executive councillor Abdul Halim Hussain, whom Helmy considers a mentor.\nImmediately after that conversation, Helmy recalled, he began working on the concept for the app, starting with notes on paper before working with a small team to develop a prototype.\nToday, the app is not the only thing that keeps him busy. He is also building a presence in the local film industry, serving as a creative producer, second director and official photographer of an upcoming film titled “Mamu The Movie”.\nSlated for release at the end of the year, the heartwarming film tells the story of a father’s sacrifices for his family.\n\nDespite juggling multiple roles, Helmy remains clear about what he envisions for One Click Hub. “I hope that people will turn to this app when they need creative services, especially for government events.”\nMore importantly, his vision goes beyond himself. “It’s not about individual success - I want everyone to move forward together,” he concluded.\nLearn more about Helmy Sam Photography on Instagram.","date_published":"2026-04-20T01:00:56.000Z","author":{"name":"Sheela Vijayan @ FMT Lifestyle"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Simple Stories","Tech","Top Lifestyle","apps","creative industry","creatives","digital hub","digital platform","entrepreneurs","Helmy Sam Photography","One Click Hub","Technology"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/313fb7ee-muhamed-helmy-samsudeen-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/313fb7ee-muhamed-helmy-samsudeen-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/could-too-much-salt-affect-our-memory","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/could-too-much-salt-affect-our-memory","title":"Could too much salt affect our memory?","summary":"New research adds to growing evidence that diet plays a role in brain health, especially in men.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/40ac29eb-salt-envato-elements-pic-190426-resize.webp\")
SYDNEY: Salt is a staple in most diets, but how much is too much when it comes to brain health?
\nNew research from Australia suggests that higher sodium intake may be linked to faster memory decline in men, offering another reminder of how everyday dietary choices can shape long-term wellbeing.
\nThe study, led by Edith Cowan University (ECU) and published in Neurobiology of Ageing, tracked 1,208 adults over a period of six years.
\nIt found that men who consumed more sodium experienced a faster decline in episodic memory – the type of memory that helps us recall personal experiences, such as where we parked the car or what we did yesterday.
\nInterestingly, the same pattern was not observed in women, suggesting that biological differences may play a role, although researchers say more work is needed to fully understand why.
\nEpisodic memory is one of the first cognitive functions to be affected as people age, and changes in this area are often linked to conditions such as dementia. While the study does not prove that salt directly causes memory loss, it adds to a growing body of research pointing to diet as a key factor in brain health.
\nSodium itself is essential for the body, helping to regulate fluid balance and nerve function. But excessive intake has long been associated with high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease – both of which are known to affect blood flow to the brain.
\nResearchers believe this may be one possible explanation for the findings: high sodium levels may contribute to inflammation in the brain, damage to blood vessels, and reduced circulation, all of which can gradually affect cognitive function over time.
\nThere is also emerging evidence from earlier studies suggesting that high-salt diets could interfere with how brain cells communicate, potentially affecting memory and learning processes.
\nStill, the Australian experts emphasise that the research should be seen as part of a broader picture.
\n“Our findings provide early evidence of a link between higher sodium intake and cognitive function, but more research is needed to fully understand how and why this relationship exists,” said lead researcher Samantha Gardener.
\nWhat is clear, nevertheless, is that diet remains one of the most modifiable factors when it comes to long-term health.
\nHealth guidelines in countries such as Australia recommend limiting sodium intake to around 2,000mg per day – roughly equivalent to one teaspoon of salt – although many people exceed this amount without realising it, particularly through processed and packaged foods.
\nFor now, experts say the takeaway is not to eliminate salt entirely but to be mindful of overall intake. Small, consistent choices – from reducing processed foods to balancing meals – may play a role in supporting memory and cognitive function as we age.
\n","content_text":"SYDNEY: Salt is a staple in most diets, but how much is too much when it comes to brain health?\nNew research from Australia suggests that higher sodium intake may be linked to faster memory decline in men, offering another reminder of how everyday dietary choices can shape long-term wellbeing.\nThe study, led by Edith Cowan University (ECU) and published in Neurobiology of Ageing, tracked 1,208 adults over a period of six years.\nIt found that men who consumed more sodium experienced a faster decline in episodic memory - the type of memory that helps us recall personal experiences, such as where we parked the car or what we did yesterday.\nInterestingly, the same pattern was not observed in women, suggesting that biological differences may play a role, although researchers say more work is needed to fully understand why.\nEpisodic memory is one of the first cognitive functions to be affected as people age, and changes in this area are often linked to conditions such as dementia. While the study does not prove that salt directly causes memory loss, it adds to a growing body of research pointing to diet as a key factor in brain health.\nSodium itself is essential for the body, helping to regulate fluid balance and nerve function. But excessive intake has long been associated with high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease - both of which are known to affect blood flow to the brain.\nResearchers believe this may be one possible explanation for the findings: high sodium levels may contribute to inflammation in the brain, damage to blood vessels, and reduced circulation, all of which can gradually affect cognitive function over time.\nThere is also emerging evidence from earlier studies suggesting that high-salt diets could interfere with how brain cells communicate, potentially affecting memory and learning processes.\nStill, the Australian experts emphasise that the research should be seen as part of a broader picture.\n“Our findings provide early evidence of a link between higher sodium intake and cognitive function, but more research is needed to fully understand how and why this relationship exists,” said lead researcher Samantha Gardener.\nWhat is clear, nevertheless, is that diet remains one of the most modifiable factors when it comes to long-term health.\nHealth guidelines in countries such as Australia recommend limiting sodium intake to around 2,000mg per day - roughly equivalent to one teaspoon of salt - although many people exceed this amount without realising it, particularly through processed and packaged foods.\nFor now, experts say the takeaway is not to eliminate salt entirely but to be mindful of overall intake. Small, consistent choices - from reducing processed foods to balancing meals - may play a role in supporting memory and cognitive function as we age.","date_published":"2026-04-20T00:30:26.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Health & Family","Top Lifestyle","Australia","diet","health","healthcare","memory","research","salt intake","Science","sodium"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/40ac29eb-salt-envato-elements-pic-190426-resize.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/40ac29eb-salt-envato-elements-pic-190426-resize.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/with-his-music-finally-put-to-page-ahmad-nawabs-golden-touch-lives-on","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/with-his-music-finally-put-to-page-ahmad-nawabs-golden-touch-lives-on","title":"With his music finally put to page, Ahmad Nawab’s golden touch lives on","summary":"From 'Seloka Hari Raya' to 'Malaysia Truly Asia', a new book preserves the legacy of one of Malaysia’s most prolific composers.","content_html":"![\"book\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/16c7d957-book-lifestyle-emelpic-190426.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: For decades, his music has been part of the Malaysian soundtrack of life. From festive classics to film scores, the work of the late Ahmad Nawab has quietly shaped generations – often recognised instantly, even if his name is not.
\nNow, that legacy is being brought together in a new way. A newly released book compiles more than 60 years of his work, from musical scores to rare photographs, offering a deeper look into the man behind over 2,000 compositions.
\nFor his eldest son, Nasir Khan, the book is more than a tribute – it is the fulfilment of a final wish.
\n“That was indeed his wish. He wanted his works to be compiled so people could study and appreciate his music,” Nasir said at the recent launch of “Sentuhan Emas Tan Sri Ahmad Nawab”.
\nThe project took eight months to complete – a labour of love shaped by both responsibility and memory. “The value of this book is immense to me. It’s not just a music book but a piece of history,” Nasir added.
\nWhat makes the book especially poignant is its cover: the title is drawn from Ahmad Nawab’s final handwritten note, preserved as a quiet signature from the maestro himself.
\nBorn in Penang in 1932, Ahmad Nawab’s journey into music began early. He learnt from his father and performed wherever and whenever he could, including in nightclubs to make a living.
\nHis work would go on to span eras – from the black-and-white days of classic cinema to the modern recording studio.
\n![\"photos\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/b0ecef6c-photos-bernama-pic-27326.webp\")
He collaborated with some of the biggest names in Malaysian entertainment, including P Ramlee, Saloma and Sudirman, while also helping shape the careers of singers such as Sharifah Aini, Sudirman, Khadijah Ibrahim and Ramlah Ram.
\nHis partnership with P Ramlee, in particular, remains one of the most storied. The two were once schoolmates in Penang before reconnecting professionally in Kuala Lumpur, where Ahmad Nawab was brought in to compose for P Ramlee’s films.
\nFrom “Do Re Mi” to “Masam-Masam Manis”, his music helped bring those stories to life – even if, in some cases, audiences never realised it was his playing behind the scenes.
\nIn one well-known example, the saxophone performance in “Masam-Masam Manis” was mimed on screen by P Ramlee, but the music itself was Ahmad Nawab’s.
\nAcross a career spanning more than 70 years, Ahmad Nawab composed over 2,000 songs and produced more than 200 albums, including works with Indonesian artistes.
\nSome have become cultural touchstones. There is “Seloka Hari Raya”, still heard every festive season, and “Malaysia Truly Asia”, a tourism anthem recognised far beyond the country’s borders.
\nEven in his 90s, he remained deeply connected to his craft, practising the saxophone almost daily: a reflection of his belief that music was not just talent but discipline.
\n![\"inside](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4f699933-inside-book-lifestyle-emelpic-190426.webp\")
Those who knew him often described him as meticulous, someone who documented his work carefully, from handwritten scores to recordings and clippings.
\nToday, many of those materials are still preserved by his family, forming a personal archive of a lifetime in music.
\nA legacy still unfolding
\nAhmad Nawab passed away in November 2024 at age 92, leaving behind not just a body of work, but a musical identity that continues to resonate.
\nFor his family, preserving that legacy has become both a duty and a hope. They wish for his collection – instruments, scores and memorabilia – to one day find a permanent home in a dedicated gallery.
\nIn the meantime, the new book will be distributed to universities and institutions, including the National Archives and Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, ensuring his work can be studied by future generations.
\nNasir expressed sadness that his father did not live to see the final product, but added that he was proud and relieved to honour his father’s legacy.
\nIndeed, his music will continue to do what it has always done: play on in homes and cars and at festive gatherings – often without introduction, yet instantly familiar.
\nAnd with “Sentuhan Emas”, the story behind those songs now has a place to call its own.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: For decades, his music has been part of the Malaysian soundtrack of life. From festive classics to film scores, the work of the late Ahmad Nawab has quietly shaped generations - often recognised instantly, even if his name is not.\nNow, that legacy is being brought together in a new way. A newly released book compiles more than 60 years of his work, from musical scores to rare photographs, offering a deeper look into the man behind over 2,000 compositions.\nFor his eldest son, Nasir Khan, the book is more than a tribute - it is the fulfilment of a final wish.\n“That was indeed his wish. He wanted his works to be compiled so people could study and appreciate his music,” Nasir said at the recent launch of \"Sentuhan Emas Tan Sri Ahmad Nawab\".\nThe project took eight months to complete - a labour of love shaped by both responsibility and memory. “The value of this book is immense to me. It’s not just a music book but a piece of history,” Nasir added.\nWhat makes the book especially poignant is its cover: the title is drawn from Ahmad Nawab’s final handwritten note, preserved as a quiet signature from the maestro himself.\nBorn in Penang in 1932, Ahmad Nawab’s journey into music began early. He learnt from his father and performed wherever and whenever he could, including in nightclubs to make a living.\nHis work would go on to span eras - from the black-and-white days of classic cinema to the modern recording studio.\n\nHe collaborated with some of the biggest names in Malaysian entertainment, including P Ramlee, Saloma and Sudirman, while also helping shape the careers of singers such as Sharifah Aini, Sudirman, Khadijah Ibrahim and Ramlah Ram.\nHis partnership with P Ramlee, in particular, remains one of the most storied. The two were once schoolmates in Penang before reconnecting professionally in Kuala Lumpur, where Ahmad Nawab was brought in to compose for P Ramlee’s films.\nFrom “Do Re Mi” to “Masam-Masam Manis”, his music helped bring those stories to life - even if, in some cases, audiences never realised it was his playing behind the scenes.\nIn one well-known example, the saxophone performance in “Masam-Masam Manis” was mimed on screen by P Ramlee, but the music itself was Ahmad Nawab’s.\nAcross a career spanning more than 70 years, Ahmad Nawab composed over 2,000 songs and produced more than 200 albums, including works with Indonesian artistes.\nSome have become cultural touchstones. There is “Seloka Hari Raya”, still heard every festive season, and “Malaysia Truly Asia”, a tourism anthem recognised far beyond the country’s borders.\nEven in his 90s, he remained deeply connected to his craft, practising the saxophone almost daily: a reflection of his belief that music was not just talent but discipline.\n\nThose who knew him often described him as meticulous, someone who documented his work carefully, from handwritten scores to recordings and clippings.\nToday, many of those materials are still preserved by his family, forming a personal archive of a lifetime in music.\nA legacy still unfolding\nAhmad Nawab passed away in November 2024 at age 92, leaving behind not just a body of work, but a musical identity that continues to resonate.\nFor his family, preserving that legacy has become both a duty and a hope. They wish for his collection - instruments, scores and memorabilia - to one day find a permanent home in a dedicated gallery.\nIn the meantime, the new book will be distributed to universities and institutions, including the National Archives and Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, ensuring his work can be studied by future generations.\nNasir expressed sadness that his father did not live to see the final product, but added that he was proud and relieved to honour his father's legacy.\nIndeed, his music will continue to do what it has always done: play on in homes and cars and at festive gatherings - often without introduction, yet instantly familiar.\nAnd with “Sentuhan Emas”, the story behind those songs now has a place to call its own.","date_published":"2026-04-20T00:00:35.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","Ahmad Nawab","composers","Malaysian Musicians","music","P Ramlee","Sentuhan Emas"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/16c7d957-book-lifestyle-emelpic-190426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/16c7d957-book-lifestyle-emelpic-190426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/20/why-16-digital-readiness-is-key-say-experts","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/20/why-16-digital-readiness-is-key-say-experts","title":"Why 16? Digital readiness is key, say experts","summary":"Experts argue that younger students lack the ability to critically assess online content, typically recognising manipulation only as they grow older.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/fd7f9dfe-children-playing-handphones-fmt-161225.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s plan to restrict social media access for users below age 16 has sparked debate over a key issue: why set the threshold at 16?
\nWhile the move is aimed at protecting children online, experts say it is less about limiting screen time and more about whether young users are ready to navigate the digital environment independently.
\n“At the age of 16, adolescents generally possess a higher level of cognitive maturity, enabling them to make more informed judgements about right and wrong,” said NUTP secretary-general Fouzi Singon.
\nHe said younger students tend to take content at face value, as they lack the ability to critically evaluate what they encounter online.
\n\n“Students below 16 tend to accept what is presented to them without critically evaluating the situation,” he said.
\nThe World Health Organization defines adolescence as the period between ages 10 to 19, a stage of rapid cognitive and psychosocial development, during which individuals are more vulnerable to peer influence and manipulation.
\nFrom a developmental perspective, counsellor Dr Anasuya Jegathevi Jegathesan said younger adolescents often possess more rigid thinking patterns.
\n“Younger adolescents tend to think in more concrete ways, making them more likely to trust and believe what they are told,” she said.
\n“As they get older, their thinking becomes more complex, and they are better able to question intentions and recognise manipulation.”
\nUnder the upcoming policy, individuals under 16 will not be allowed to independently create or manage social media accounts, although access remains possible through parent-managed profiles.
\nThe approach has been described as a delay in independent use rather than a blanket ban – mirroring a similar move by Australia in December last year, which reportedly led to the removal of 4.7 million underage accounts.
\nExperts say the age 16 represents a practical tipping point, where teenagers begin to develop stronger impulse control and risk awareness.
\n“Allowing digital account ownership only at 16 can significantly reduce the risk of negative behaviour, particularly exposure to harmful content and cyberbullying,” Fouzi said.
\nAnasuya added that delaying access could serve as a safeguard during a critical developmental phase.
\nHowever, Amnani A Kadir of Protect and Save the Children believes that while the policy is a step in the right direction, it does not address deeper issues.
\n“This is a protective step but not sufficient on its own. A strict age limit does not reflect differences in maturity, exposure and digital literacy,” she said.
\nShe warned that restricting access without addressing how children actually use digital platforms could lead to unintended consequences.
\nAmnani also cautioned against over-reliance on parental supervision, noting that many families may lack the time or resources to consistently monitor online activity.
\n“Protection must come from safer platform design, digital education and trust-based engagement – not surveillance alone,” she said.
\nAnasuya agreed, saying digital readiness must be deliberately taught, both in schools and through parenting support, to help families better understand how young people should engage with online spaces.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s plan to restrict social media access for users below age 16 has sparked debate over a key issue: why set the threshold at 16?\nWhile the move is aimed at protecting children online, experts say it is less about limiting screen time and more about whether young users are ready to navigate the digital environment independently.\n“At the age of 16, adolescents generally possess a higher level of cognitive maturity, enabling them to make more informed judgements about right and wrong,” said NUTP secretary-general Fouzi Singon.\nHe said younger students tend to take content at face value, as they lack the ability to critically evaluate what they encounter online.\n\n“Students below 16 tend to accept what is presented to them without critically evaluating the situation,” he said.\nThe World Health Organization defines adolescence as the period between ages 10 to 19, a stage of rapid cognitive and psychosocial development, during which individuals are more vulnerable to peer influence and manipulation.\nFrom a developmental perspective, counsellor Dr Anasuya Jegathevi Jegathesan said younger adolescents often possess more rigid thinking patterns.\n“Younger adolescents tend to think in more concrete ways, making them more likely to trust and believe what they are told,” she said.\n“As they get older, their thinking becomes more complex, and they are better able to question intentions and recognise manipulation.”\nUnder the upcoming policy, individuals under 16 will not be allowed to independently create or manage social media accounts, although access remains possible through parent-managed profiles.\nThe approach has been described as a delay in independent use rather than a blanket ban - mirroring a similar move by Australia in December last year, which reportedly led to the removal of 4.7 million underage accounts.\nExperts say the age 16 represents a practical tipping point, where teenagers begin to develop stronger impulse control and risk awareness.\n“Allowing digital account ownership only at 16 can significantly reduce the risk of negative behaviour, particularly exposure to harmful content and cyberbullying,” Fouzi said.\nAnasuya added that delaying access could serve as a safeguard during a critical developmental phase.\nHowever, Amnani A Kadir of Protect and Save the Children believes that while the policy is a step in the right direction, it does not address deeper issues.\n“This is a protective step but not sufficient on its own. A strict age limit does not reflect differences in maturity, exposure and digital literacy,” she said.\nShe warned that restricting access without addressing how children actually use digital platforms could lead to unintended consequences.\nAmnani also cautioned against over-reliance on parental supervision, noting that many families may lack the time or resources to consistently monitor online activity.\n“Protection must come from safer platform design, digital education and trust-based engagement - not surveillance alone,” she said.\nAnasuya agreed, saying digital readiness must be deliberately taught, both in schools and through parenting support, to help families better understand how young people should engage with online spaces.","date_published":"2026-04-19T23:30:03.000Z","author":{"name":"Alysha Edward"},"tags":["Highlight","Top News","Malaysia","Lifestyle","Health & Family","Tech","Top Lifestyle","child safety","digital policy","social media","Teenagers","under-16 ban"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/fd7f9dfe-children-playing-handphones-fmt-161225.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/fd7f9dfe-children-playing-handphones-fmt-161225.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/meshalini-rides-against-the-rush","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/20/meshalini-rides-against-the-rush","title":"Meshalini rides against the rush","summary":"In a city choked by traffic, one cyclist finds peace, purpose, and a new way of seeing Kualal Lumpur.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/02d451f9-meshalini-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: “What is that?” the old man asked curiously. It seemed to him like a strange contraption.
\nMeshalini gave him a gentle smile. “It’s a bicycle, uncle,” she told him reassuringly. To be fair, he hadn’t seen a foldable bicycle before, especially at an LRT station.
\n“I actually unfolded my bike in front of him so that he could see it for himself,” the 27-year-old shared with FMT Lifestyle.
\nThe old man was so impressed, he said to her rather excitedly: “I think I might get one for myself!” And for this Kapar lass, these heartwarming interactions with strangers are one of the many reasons why she loves commuting with her bicycle.
\n“I don’t normally talk to people,” the youngest of three admitted. “But ever since I got my bike, strangers just come up to me and ask about it. I’ve been talking to people more these days.”
\nMeshalini, a production coordinator at Five Arts Centre, is among a growing number of urbanites cycling to beat worsening traffic and to stay healthy.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/a77bd9f8-meshalini-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-2.webp\")
“I’m mostly seated at work, staring at my laptop. Cycling gives me time to spend on my physical health,” Meshalini pointed out.
\n“And after a long day at work, it’s a form of stress relief as well. When I cycle, especially at night, the roads are very calm and I get to spend time with myself or even talk to myself. It’s very relaxing.”
\nInterestingly, Meshalini didn’t grow up cycling due to safety concerns, but recalls riding her mother’s bike to tuition as a 12-year-old and even “converting” a friend. It was only during her internship in Kuala Lumpur that she noticed bicycles and e-scooters being used for commuting.
\n“It inspired me to get my own bicycle,” Meshalini said, recalling how she used it to commute at university – until it was stolen. “It was a very painful experience for me. It wasn’t expensive, but it meant so much to me.”
\nTo make matters worse, she injured her leg during a sports tournament and couldn’t cycle for years. After moving to Petaling Jaya for work, she picked up cycling again as it was the only exercise that didn’t strain her injury.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f2c4894c-meshalini-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-3.webp\")
One day, Meshalini spotted a foldable bicycle at a sports store and bought it on the spot for just over RM800, along with some gear. “I knew it was now or never,” she said.
\nOn a typical day, Meshalini cycles 20 minutes from her PJ home to a train station, rides to Pasar Seni, then cycles to GMBB. She has also biked from Bukit Bintang to Titiwangsa to meet friends – an hour-long ride.
\n“My friends have voiced their concerns for my safety, and urged me to drive instead of cycling,” Meshalini shared. “But I’ve reassured them that I have taken all the safety precautions. I’m not going to stop cycling.”
\nIn fact, even extreme heat, rain, or a few brushes with near accidents have failed to discourage Meshalini from quitting. “Even if I get hit by a vehicle, I don’t think I’m going to stop cycling. I love it so much … I just want to continue cycling!” she enthused.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/91466a04-bicycle-at-night-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp\")
“Besides, cycling allows me to see and experience the world differently. I get to slow down, go through lanes and streets that I wouldn’t be able to if I drove a car, and discover hidden cafés or even murals. You’re able to notice so many things that’s happening around you,” she said.
\nHowever, Meshalini understands why many avoid cycling: bike lanes are often blocked, forcing riders onto busy roads. “The authorities should make the roads safer for people to walk and cycle,” she noted.
\nNevertheless, she still encourages fellow Malaysians to commute by cycling. “Just do it. It’s so great! You just have to try it once and you will immediately love cycling. You will feel different. It will relieve your stress, and make you stronger physically and mentally.”
\nAs for her, she will continue inspiring strangers she meets on her daily commute to pick up cycling … her colleagues, her friends, and that old uncle even if it means unfolding her bicycle for him once again.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: “What is that?” the old man asked curiously. It seemed to him like a strange contraption.\nMeshalini gave him a gentle smile. “It’s a bicycle, uncle,” she told him reassuringly. To be fair, he hadn’t seen a foldable bicycle before, especially at an LRT station.\n“I actually unfolded my bike in front of him so that he could see it for himself,” the 27-year-old shared with FMT Lifestyle.\nThe old man was so impressed, he said to her rather excitedly: “I think I might get one for myself!” And for this Kapar lass, these heartwarming interactions with strangers are one of the many reasons why she loves commuting with her bicycle.\n“I don’t normally talk to people,” the youngest of three admitted. “But ever since I got my bike, strangers just come up to me and ask about it. I’ve been talking to people more these days.”\nMeshalini, a production coordinator at Five Arts Centre, is among a growing number of urbanites cycling to beat worsening traffic and to stay healthy.\n\n“I’m mostly seated at work, staring at my laptop. Cycling gives me time to spend on my physical health,” Meshalini pointed out.\n“And after a long day at work, it’s a form of stress relief as well. When I cycle, especially at night, the roads are very calm and I get to spend time with myself or even talk to myself. It’s very relaxing.”\nInterestingly, Meshalini didn’t grow up cycling due to safety concerns, but recalls riding her mother’s bike to tuition as a 12-year-old and even “converting” a friend. It was only during her internship in Kuala Lumpur that she noticed bicycles and e-scooters being used for commuting.\n“It inspired me to get my own bicycle,” Meshalini said, recalling how she used it to commute at university - until it was stolen. “It was a very painful experience for me. It wasn’t expensive, but it meant so much to me.”\nTo make matters worse, she injured her leg during a sports tournament and couldn’t cycle for years. After moving to Petaling Jaya for work, she picked up cycling again as it was the only exercise that didn’t strain her injury.\n\nOne day, Meshalini spotted a foldable bicycle at a sports store and bought it on the spot for just over RM800, along with some gear. “I knew it was now or never,” she said.\nOn a typical day, Meshalini cycles 20 minutes from her PJ home to a train station, rides to Pasar Seni, then cycles to GMBB. She has also biked from Bukit Bintang to Titiwangsa to meet friends - an hour-long ride.\n“My friends have voiced their concerns for my safety, and urged me to drive instead of cycling,” Meshalini shared. “But I’ve reassured them that I have taken all the safety precautions. I’m not going to stop cycling.”\nIn fact, even extreme heat, rain, or a few brushes with near accidents have failed to discourage Meshalini from quitting. “Even if I get hit by a vehicle, I don’t think I’m going to stop cycling. I love it so much … I just want to continue cycling!” she enthused.\n\n“Besides, cycling allows me to see and experience the world differently. I get to slow down, go through lanes and streets that I wouldn’t be able to if I drove a car, and discover hidden cafés or even murals. You’re able to notice so many things that’s happening around you,” she said.\nHowever, Meshalini understands why many avoid cycling: bike lanes are often blocked, forcing riders onto busy roads. “The authorities should make the roads safer for people to walk and cycle,” she noted.\nNevertheless, she still encourages fellow Malaysians to commute by cycling. “Just do it. It’s so great! You just have to try it once and you will immediately love cycling. You will feel different. It will relieve your stress, and make you stronger physically and mentally.”\nAs for her, she will continue inspiring strangers she meets on her daily commute to pick up cycling … her colleagues, her friends, and that old uncle even if it means unfolding her bicycle for him once again.","date_published":"2026-04-19T23:00:04.000Z","author":{"name":"Dinesh Kumar Maganathan @ FMT Lifestyle"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","Bicycle Day","bicycle lane","commute","cycling","health","Meshalini","travel"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/02d451f9-meshalini-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/02d451f9-meshalini-lifestyle-emel-pic-190426-1.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/19/penang-teen-sets-malaysian-record-for-memorising-300-digits-of-pi","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/19/penang-teen-sets-malaysian-record-for-memorising-300-digits-of-pi","title":"Penang teen sets Malaysian record for memorising 300 digits of pi","summary":"K Poonyamitra, 14, achieved the feat on Feb 9 after consistent practice over two months.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/3d76c37f-k-poonyamitra-bernama-190426-1.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: Penang schoolgirl K Poonyamitra, 14, has set a Malaysian record for memorising and reciting the first 300 digits of pi.
\nThe Form 2 student of St George’s Girls School achieved the feat on Feb 9. She said her achievement came after consistent practice over two months during which she set a daily target of memorising at least 10 digits.
\n“It was difficult at first, but once I got into the rhythm, it became easier to remember the numbers,” she said after receiving a computer and certificate from the Malaysia Book of Records.
\nHer mother, S Thilagam, said Poonyamitra also won the Memory Athlete category in the ninth season of “Kids Got Talent Malaysia” last year. “She also auditioned online for season 21 of “America’s Got Talent” in January and emerged runner-up in an Asean world records event last year.
\nPi is the the ratio of the circumference of any circle to the diameter of that circle. It is commonly expressed as the approximate fraction 22/7 or 3.14159… which never ends, and which never contains a permanently repeating pattern.
\nThe largest calculated value of pi is 314 trillion digits, a record set by StorageReview on March 14 (sometimes regarded as Pi Day) this year.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: Penang schoolgirl K Poonyamitra, 14, has set a Malaysian record for memorising and reciting the first 300 digits of pi.\nThe Form 2 student of St George's Girls School achieved the feat on Feb 9. She said her achievement came after consistent practice over two months during which she set a daily target of memorising at least 10 digits.\n“It was difficult at first, but once I got into the rhythm, it became easier to remember the numbers,” she said after receiving a computer and certificate from the Malaysia Book of Records.\nHer mother, S Thilagam, said Poonyamitra also won the Memory Athlete category in the ninth season of \"Kids Got Talent Malaysia\" last year. “She also auditioned online for season 21 of \"America's Got Talent\" in January and emerged runner-up in an Asean world records event last year.\nPi is the the ratio of the circumference of any circle to the diameter of that circle. It is commonly expressed as the approximate fraction 22/7 or 3.14159... which never ends, and which never contains a permanently repeating pattern.\nThe largest calculated value of pi is 314 trillion digits, a record set by StorageReview on March 14 (sometimes regarded as Pi Day) this year.","date_published":"2026-04-19T14:08:13.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Highlight","Top News","Malaysia","Lifestyle","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","achievement","inspirational","K Poonyamitra","Malaysian record","Maths","value of pi"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/3d76c37f-k-poonyamitra-bernama-190426-1.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/3d76c37f-k-poonyamitra-bernama-190426-1.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/comedy-trailblazer-eddie-murphy-receives-afi-life-achievement-award","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/comedy-trailblazer-eddie-murphy-receives-afi-life-achievement-award","title":"Comedy trailblazer Eddie Murphy receives AFI Life Achievement Award","summary":"The actor first rose to fame on 'Saturday Night Live' from 1980 to 1984, where characters like Buckwheat and Gumby launched him to stardom.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/afeb18f6-afp-a8b644v-eddie-murphy.webp\")
LOS ANGELES: Eddie Murphy received the American Film Institute’s (AFI) Life Achievement Award on Saturday night in Los Angeles, honoring a career that has shaped comedy and film for more than five decades.
\nAccepting the trophy with his trademark humor, Murphy joked about its size. “Have these always been this size? It seems like this one is smaller,” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd.
\nMurphy, who turned 65 on April 3, said he was grateful to receive the honour while he was still young enough to enjoy it.
\n“Sometimes they make you wait until you’re real old to get this award,” he quipped, noting that Mel Brooks and Francis Ford Coppola were honored in their 80s, while Lillian Gish received the accolade at 90.
\nMurphy joked that if he had to wait that long, he would cuss on stage and defecate on the floor.
\nStriking a more reflective tone, Murphy told the audience he wished they could feel what he felt standing onstage. “I almost teared up,” he said. “I’ll go backstage and cry.”
\nThe ceremony featured tributes from across the entertainment industry, including a high-energy performance of songs from the movie musical “Dreamgirls” by Jennifer Hudson, who starred in the film alongside Murphy.
\nSpeeches from fellow comedians including Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle and Kenan Thompson underscored Murphy’s influence on comedy and his role as a trailblazer for generations of Black performers.
\n“He wasn’t just an influence,” Thompson said on stage.
\n“He was proof that you could come in young, take big swings, trust your voice and leave a mark that lasts decades,” the “Good Burger” actor added.
\nEchoing Thompson’s appreciation for having Murphy as a mentor, Da’Vine Joy Randolph said she learned a great deal from Murphy while filming the 2019 movie “Dolemite Is My Name”.
\n“The greatest gift he ever gave me was the opportunity to learn by watching him,” said Randolph, a Golden Globe winner. “These are lessons no drama school can teach.”
\nMurphy first rose to fame on “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) from 1980 to 1984, where characters like Buckwheat and Gumby launched him to stardom.
\nHe went on to define iconic roles in “Beverly Hills Cop”, “Coming to America”, “The Nutty Professor” and “Norbit”, earning critical acclaim for “Dreamgirls.” His voice work as animated characters Donkey in “Shrek” and Mushu in “Mulan” also introduced him to new generations.
\nThe AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony will stream on Netflix on May 31, marking its debut on the platform.
\nAFI was founded in 1967 to preserve the history and culture of film, honor artists, and nurture future filmmakers. Previous recipients of the AFI Life Achievement Award include John Ford, Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep.
\n","content_text":"LOS ANGELES: Eddie Murphy received the American Film Institute’s (AFI) Life Achievement Award on Saturday night in Los Angeles, honoring a career that has shaped comedy and film for more than five decades.\nAccepting the trophy with his trademark humor, Murphy joked about its size. “Have these always been this size? It seems like this one is smaller,” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd.\nMurphy, who turned 65 on April 3, said he was grateful to receive the honour while he was still young enough to enjoy it.\n“Sometimes they make you wait until you're real old to get this award,” he quipped, noting that Mel Brooks and Francis Ford Coppola were honored in their 80s, while Lillian Gish received the accolade at 90.\nMurphy joked that if he had to wait that long, he would cuss on stage and defecate on the floor.\nStriking a more reflective tone, Murphy told the audience he wished they could feel what he felt standing onstage. “I almost teared up,” he said. “I’ll go backstage and cry.”\nThe ceremony featured tributes from across the entertainment industry, including a high-energy performance of songs from the movie musical \"Dreamgirls\" by Jennifer Hudson, who starred in the film alongside Murphy.\nSpeeches from fellow comedians including Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle and Kenan Thompson underscored Murphy’s influence on comedy and his role as a trailblazer for generations of Black performers.\n\"He wasn't just an influence,\" Thompson said on stage.\n\"He was proof that you could come in young, take big swings, trust your voice and leave a mark that lasts decades,\" the \"Good Burger\" actor added.\nEchoing Thompson's appreciation for having Murphy as a mentor, Da'Vine Joy Randolph said she learned a great deal from Murphy while filming the 2019 movie \"Dolemite Is My Name\".\n“The greatest gift he ever gave me was the opportunity to learn by watching him,” said Randolph, a Golden Globe winner. “These are lessons no drama school can teach.”\nMurphy first rose to fame on \"Saturday Night Live\" (SNL) from 1980 to 1984, where characters like Buckwheat and Gumby launched him to stardom.\nHe went on to define iconic roles in \"Beverly Hills Cop\", \"Coming to America\", \"The Nutty Professor\" and \"Norbit\", earning critical acclaim for \"Dreamgirls.\" His voice work as animated characters Donkey in \"Shrek\" and Mushu in \"Mulan\" also introduced him to new generations.\nThe AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony will stream on Netflix on May 31, marking its debut on the platform.\nAFI was founded in 1967 to preserve the history and culture of film, honor artists, and nurture future filmmakers. Previous recipients of the AFI Life Achievement Award include John Ford, Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep.","date_published":"2026-04-19T07:22:44.000Z","author":{"name":"Reuters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","American Film Institute","comedian","comedy","Eddie Murphy","Life Achievement Award","SNL"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/afeb18f6-afp-a8b644v-eddie-murphy.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/afeb18f6-afp-a8b644v-eddie-murphy.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/humanoid-robots-race-past-humans-in-beijing-half-marathon-showing-rapid-advances","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/humanoid-robots-race-past-humans-in-beijing-half-marathon-showing-rapid-advances","title":"Humanoid robots race past humans in Beijing half-marathon, showing rapid advances","summary":"The champion robot recorded a time of 2 hours 40 minutes, more than double the time of the human winner of the conventional race.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/c914030c-china-robot-marathon-19042026.webp\")
BEIJING: Dozens of Chinese-made humanoid robots showed off their fast-improving athleticism as they whizzed past human runners in a half-marathon race in Beijing on Sunday, having lagged far behind a year earlier.
\nThe race’s inaugural edition last year was riddled with mishaps, as many robots struggled to get off the starting line, and most were unable to finish.
\nThe champion robot recorded a time of 2 hours 40 minutes, comfortably ahead of its machine rivals, but more than double the time of the human winner of the conventional race.
\nThe contrast with this year was stark. Not only had the number of robots running increased from 20 to more than 100, but several vying for the podium were noticeably faster than the professional athletes racing in the human race.
\nThe robots and humans ran in parallel tracks to avoid collisions.
\nThe winning robot, developed by Honor, a well-known Chinese smartphone maker, finished the race in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, several minutes faster than the world record set by Jacob Kiplimo last month in Lisbon, though the humanoid had to be helped back up just metres from the finish line after crashing into the railing.
\nWhile economically valuable applications of humanoid robots remain in the trial phase, the marathon’s showcasing of these machines’ physical prowess highlights their potential to reshape everything from dangerous jobs to combat on the battlefield.
\nChina has the goal of becoming a powerhouse in this frontier industry, and it has enacted a wide range of policies from subsidies to infrastructure projects to cultivate local firms.
\nChina’s most-watched TV show, the annual CCTV Spring Festival gala, in February showcased the country’s push to dominate humanoid robots and the future of manufacturing.
\nThat included a lengthy martial arts demonstration where over a dozen Unitree humanoids performed sophisticated fight sequences waving swords, poles and nunchucks in close proximity to human children performers.
\n","content_text":"BEIJING: Dozens of Chinese-made humanoid robots showed off their fast-improving athleticism as they whizzed past human runners in a half-marathon race in Beijing on Sunday, having lagged far behind a year earlier.\nThe race's inaugural edition last year was riddled with mishaps, as many robots struggled to get off the starting line, and most were unable to finish.\nThe champion robot recorded a time of 2 hours 40 minutes, comfortably ahead of its machine rivals, but more than double the time of the human winner of the conventional race.\nThe contrast with this year was stark. Not only had the number of robots running increased from 20 to more than 100, but several vying for the podium were noticeably faster than the professional athletes racing in the human race.\nThe robots and humans ran in parallel tracks to avoid collisions.\nThe winning robot, developed by Honor, a well-known Chinese smartphone maker, finished the race in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, several minutes faster than the world record set by Jacob Kiplimo last month in Lisbon, though the humanoid had to be helped back up just metres from the finish line after crashing into the railing.\nWhile economically valuable applications of humanoid robots remain in the trial phase, the marathon's showcasing of these machines' physical prowess highlights their potential to reshape everything from dangerous jobs to combat on the battlefield.\nChina has the goal of becoming a powerhouse in this frontier industry, and it has enacted a wide range of policies from subsidies to infrastructure projects to cultivate local firms.\nChina's most-watched TV show, the annual CCTV Spring Festival gala, in February showcased the country's push to dominate humanoid robots and the future of manufacturing.\nThat included a lengthy martial arts demonstration where over a dozen Unitree humanoids performed sophisticated fight sequences waving swords, poles and nunchucks in close proximity to human children performers.","date_published":"2026-04-19T02:50:24.000Z","author":{"name":"Reuters"},"tags":["World","Top World","Lifestyle","Tech","Top Lifestyle","AI robotics.","athletic robots","Beijing Marathon","china innovation","China Tech","future technology","Humanoid robots","robot innovation","robot race","robotics industry"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/c914030c-china-robot-marathon-19042026.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/c914030c-china-robot-marathon-19042026.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/behind-the-smiles-the-importance-of-kids-oral-health","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/behind-the-smiles-the-importance-of-kids-oral-health","title":"Behind the smiles: the importance of kids’ oral health","summary":"Dr Ashwini M Madawana @ Madawan sheds light on the common dental issues affecting children and the steps parents can take to prevent them.","content_html":"![\"redress](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/526e567a-redress-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: When it comes to a child’s development, oral health often takes a back seat to other more visible milestones like physical growth and academic achievement.
\nYet, the condition of a child’s teeth can shape their confidence.
\nChildren with poor oral health may become withdrawn or self-conscious – covering their mouths when they laugh or never smiling in photos. Left unaddressed, it can shape how they see themselves and interact with others.
\nTo learn more about oral health issues affecting children and what parents can do to prevent them, FMT Lifestyle spoke with Dr Ashwini M Madawana @ Madawan, a paediatric dental specialist from Oriental Melaka Straits Medical Centre.
\nIn January, Ashwini was also recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records for the “Most Academic Articles Published by a Dental Specialist in a Year”.
\nAccording to her, the most common issue among children below the age of seven is dental caries. Also known as tooth decay or cavities, it occurs when acids produced by bacteria in dental plaque gradually erode the tooth.
\n“If you notice chalky white spots and the tooth becoming a little dull, that is the first sign that parents should come and see us,” said Ashwini, 34.
\nThe main causes of caries are poor oral hygiene and a diet high in sugar and starches. Starches can be broken down into sugars in the mouth and feed acid-producing bacteria.
\nPrevention, she added, starts with proper oral care – including brushing with fluoride toothpaste, which can help prevent tooth decay – alongside limiting foods and drinks high in sugar and starch.
\nEach time sugary or starchy foods and drinks are consumed, the mouth becomes more acidic, increasing the risk of enamel damage. Frequent snacking, therefore, exposes the teeth to repeated acid attacks.
\n![\"drashwini\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/6f4ba4db-drashwini.webp\")
Another common issue is malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and jaws – often seen during the “mixed dentition” phase.
\n“This is a period between ages seven and 12 when a child has both their baby teeth and a few permanent teeth.”
\nSigns of malocclusion include crowded or crooked teeth, difficulty biting or chewing and frequent biting of the inner cheeks or tongue.
\nMalocclusion can be caused by several factors including genetics, retained baby teeth which are primary teeth that do not fall out on time, and thumb-sucking and nail-biting.
\nTo prevent malocclusion, Ashwini emphasised the importance of regular dental check-ups. She recommends a child’s first visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth erupting.
\nAfter that, check-ups should be scheduled every six months, or more frequently if advised by the dentist.
\nDental trauma is also common among children. This refers to injuries to the teeth, gums, jaws or surrounding structures, often caused by falls, accidents or sports.
\n“In these cases, I would advise that parents bring their children to get checked, even if the child is not in pain, as there may be underlying injuries that are easily overlooked,” said Ashwini, who lectures part-time at International Medical University (IMU).
\nAshwini also highlighted the psychological aspect of oral care, such as dental anxiety – the fear or stress associated with a dental setting.
\n![\"atwork](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/b06f2621-atwork-dr-ashwini-m-madawana-@-madawan-pic-18426.webp\")
Parents, she emphasised, play a key role in shaping how their children perceive dental visits.
\n“Some parents tell their children, ‘If you don’t study well, I will ask the dentist to pull your teeth’. For me, this creates a bad impression of dentists.”
\nSo, how does she help young patients feel at ease? “During their first visit, if it’s not an emergency, I’ll allow them to touch my instruments.”
\nShe also introduces these tools in a fun way, referring to the suction as a “magical straw” and the probe as a “magical pencil”.
\nShe then uses the “tell, show and do” technique – first explaining what the instrument does, then demonstrating how it works, and for older children, allowing them to try it themselves.
\nExtending her efforts further, Ashwini has authored a book titled “Magical Molars” to help ease dental anxiety in children.
\nUltimately, her message to parents is simple: “If parents can invest in their children’s oral health from as early as six months onwards, it could help avoid spending more later.”
\nFollow Ashwini on Instagram. To purchase ‘Magical Molars’, click here.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: When it comes to a child’s development, oral health often takes a back seat to other more visible milestones like physical growth and academic achievement.\nYet, the condition of a child’s teeth can shape their confidence.\nChildren with poor oral health may become withdrawn or self-conscious - covering their mouths when they laugh or never smiling in photos. Left unaddressed, it can shape how they see themselves and interact with others.\nTo learn more about oral health issues affecting children and what parents can do to prevent them, FMT Lifestyle spoke with Dr Ashwini M Madawana @ Madawan, a paediatric dental specialist from Oriental Melaka Straits Medical Centre.\nIn January, Ashwini was also recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records for the “Most Academic Articles Published by a Dental Specialist in a Year”.\nAccording to her, the most common issue among children below the age of seven is dental caries. Also known as tooth decay or cavities, it occurs when acids produced by bacteria in dental plaque gradually erode the tooth.\n“If you notice chalky white spots and the tooth becoming a little dull, that is the first sign that parents should come and see us,” said Ashwini, 34.\nThe main causes of caries are poor oral hygiene and a diet high in sugar and starches. Starches can be broken down into sugars in the mouth and feed acid-producing bacteria.\nPrevention, she added, starts with proper oral care - including brushing with fluoride toothpaste, which can help prevent tooth decay - alongside limiting foods and drinks high in sugar and starch.\nEach time sugary or starchy foods and drinks are consumed, the mouth becomes more acidic, increasing the risk of enamel damage. Frequent snacking, therefore, exposes the teeth to repeated acid attacks.\n\nAnother common issue is malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and jaws - often seen during the “mixed dentition” phase.\n“This is a period between ages seven and 12 when a child has both their baby teeth and a few permanent teeth.”\nSigns of malocclusion include crowded or crooked teeth, difficulty biting or chewing and frequent biting of the inner cheeks or tongue.\nMalocclusion can be caused by several factors including genetics, retained baby teeth which are primary teeth that do not fall out on time, and thumb-sucking and nail-biting.\nTo prevent malocclusion, Ashwini emphasised the importance of regular dental check-ups. She recommends a child’s first visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth erupting.\nAfter that, check-ups should be scheduled every six months, or more frequently if advised by the dentist.\nDental trauma is also common among children. This refers to injuries to the teeth, gums, jaws or surrounding structures, often caused by falls, accidents or sports.\n“In these cases, I would advise that parents bring their children to get checked, even if the child is not in pain, as there may be underlying injuries that are easily overlooked,” said Ashwini, who lectures part-time at International Medical University (IMU).\nAshwini also highlighted the psychological aspect of oral care, such as dental anxiety - the fear or stress associated with a dental setting.\n\nParents, she emphasised, play a key role in shaping how their children perceive dental visits.\n“Some parents tell their children, ‘If you don’t study well, I will ask the dentist to pull your teeth’. For me, this creates a bad impression of dentists.”\nSo, how does she help young patients feel at ease? “During their first visit, if it’s not an emergency, I’ll allow them to touch my instruments.”\nShe also introduces these tools in a fun way, referring to the suction as a “magical straw” and the probe as a “magical pencil”.\nShe then uses the “tell, show and do” technique - first explaining what the instrument does, then demonstrating how it works, and for older children, allowing them to try it themselves.\nExtending her efforts further, Ashwini has authored a book titled “Magical Molars” to help ease dental anxiety in children.\nUltimately, her message to parents is simple: “If parents can invest in their children’s oral health from as early as six months onwards, it could help avoid spending more later.”\nFollow Ashwini on Instagram. To purchase ‘Magical Molars’, click here.","date_published":"2026-04-19T01:00:36.000Z","author":{"name":"Sheela Vijayan @ FMT Lifestyle"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Health & Family","Top Lifestyle","children","Dr Ashwini M Madawana @ Madawan","health","oral health","teeth"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/526e567a-redress-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/526e567a-redress-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/kombucha-gains-ground-as-msians-seek-healthier-drink-options","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/kombucha-gains-ground-as-msians-seek-healthier-drink-options","title":"Kombucha gains ground as M’sians seek healthier drink options","summary":"Growing interest in gut health is driving demand, although product quality and claims vary widely.","content_html":"![\"kombucha](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/57fb799e-kombucha-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: Once a niche drink that was barely known locally a decade ago, kombucha has steadily moved into the mainstream, reflecting changing consumer preferences towards healthier beverages.
\nWorldwide, kombucha began appearing more widely in stores circa 2015-2016 and has since grown into a global industry.
\nThe functional drinks market is projected to reach US$248 billion by 2030, with kombucha alone expected to hit US$9 billion, driven by demand for low-sugar, probiotic-rich options linked to gut health.
\nKombucha became part of 26-year-old Aisyah Adrina Suhaimi’s routine in early adulthood, influenced by friends and its perceived health benefits.
\n“I like the tangy, fizzy taste, and I’ve noticed it helps with digestion,” said the postgraduate student, who spends RM10-RM15 per bottle. She said it has also been beneficial for her weight-loss journey.
\nJoseph Poh, founder of local brand WonderBrew, said kombucha is increasingly seen as a substitute for sugary soft drinks.
\n“Our drinks are for people on the go who want to support gut health. Most of our customers are aged between 18 and 45, with strong interest from women,” he said.
\nUniversiti Malaysia Sabah lecturer Nazri Abdul Rahman said the drink’s rise reflects broader wellness trends, including reduced sugar intake and growing interest in fermented foods.
\n![\"wonderbrew\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ed69fe99-wonderbrew-bernama-pic-18426.webp\")
He cautioned, however, that health claims can be misleading due to variations in sugar content, acidity, microbial composition and alcohol levels.
\n“Not all commercially available kombucha aligns with the healthy image presented in marketing,” he explained.
\nNazri urged consumers to read labels carefully and treat kombucha as part of a balanced diet, rather than a cure-all.
\nLooking ahead, Malaysia’s kombucha industry is expected to grow, supported by rising demand for functional, health-focused and halal-compliant beverages.
\nFuture developments will likely centre on product innovation, stricter regulation and quality assurance, particularly around alcohol content and certification.
\nTradeview Research senior analyst Tan Jia Hui said pricing may remain a challenge due to the premium positioning of the beverage.
\nEven so, the market is projected to see steady double-digit growth over the next three to five years, as more consumers shift away from traditional carbonated drinks.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: Once a niche drink that was barely known locally a decade ago, kombucha has steadily moved into the mainstream, reflecting changing consumer preferences towards healthier beverages.\nWorldwide, kombucha began appearing more widely in stores circa 2015-2016 and has since grown into a global industry.\nThe functional drinks market is projected to reach US$248 billion by 2030, with kombucha alone expected to hit US$9 billion, driven by demand for low-sugar, probiotic-rich options linked to gut health.\nKombucha became part of 26-year-old Aisyah Adrina Suhaimi's routine in early adulthood, influenced by friends and its perceived health benefits.\n“I like the tangy, fizzy taste, and I’ve noticed it helps with digestion,” said the postgraduate student, who spends RM10-RM15 per bottle. She said it has also been beneficial for her weight-loss journey.\nJoseph Poh, founder of local brand WonderBrew, said kombucha is increasingly seen as a substitute for sugary soft drinks.\n“Our drinks are for people on the go who want to support gut health. Most of our customers are aged between 18 and 45, with strong interest from women,” he said.\nUniversiti Malaysia Sabah lecturer Nazri Abdul Rahman said the drink’s rise reflects broader wellness trends, including reduced sugar intake and growing interest in fermented foods.\n\nHe cautioned, however, that health claims can be misleading due to variations in sugar content, acidity, microbial composition and alcohol levels.\n“Not all commercially available kombucha aligns with the healthy image presented in marketing,” he explained.\nNazri urged consumers to read labels carefully and treat kombucha as part of a balanced diet, rather than a cure-all.\nLooking ahead, Malaysia’s kombucha industry is expected to grow, supported by rising demand for functional, health-focused and halal-compliant beverages.\nFuture developments will likely centre on product innovation, stricter regulation and quality assurance, particularly around alcohol content and certification.\nTradeview Research senior analyst Tan Jia Hui said pricing may remain a challenge due to the premium positioning of the beverage.\nEven so, the market is projected to see steady double-digit growth over the next three to five years, as more consumers shift away from traditional carbonated drinks.","date_published":"2026-04-19T00:30:53.000Z","author":{"name":"Bernama"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Food","Health & Family","Top Lifestyle","beverages","diet","drinks","food","health","Kombucha","trends"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/57fb799e-kombucha-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/57fb799e-kombucha-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/fussy-or-fed-up-science-explains-felines-unfinished-food","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/fussy-or-fed-up-science-explains-felines-unfinished-food","title":"Fussy or fed up? Science explains felines’ unfinished food","summary":"New study suggests smell fatigue, not fullness alone, may explain why cats tend to leave their meals half-eaten.","content_html":"![\"makanlah\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/b2968cf5-makanlah-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: Your cat cries like it has not eaten in days. You rush to fill the bowl. It takes a few bites … then walks away.
\nSound familiar? Science may finally have an answer to this daily feline drama – and it turns out your cat isn’t necessarily being difficult, it’s just bored of the smell.
\nRecent research from Japan suggests that cats do not always stop eating simply because they are full. Instead, their noses may be calling the shots.
\nIn a study published in Physiology & Behavior, researchers observed that cats gradually lost interest when given the same dry food repeatedly. Yet the moment something new was introduced, whether a new flavour or even just a different smell, their appetite bounced right back.
\n“This suggests that olfactory habituation and dishabituation play an important role in feeding motivation in cats,” said Masao Miyazaki, a professor of veterinary medicine at Iwate University and senior author of the study.
\nAnyone who lives with cats will recognise the pattern of half-finished meals. While some felines may return to nibble throughout the day, others seem to expect their humans to refresh the bowl as if the leftovers no longer exist.
\nIt is a behaviour Miyazaki himself noticed at home. “I have five dogs, and they tend to eat their food very quickly. In contrast, when I feed the cats used in our research, they eat slowly and often leave some food behind,” he outlined.
\n“At one point, I became very curious about this difference, which led me to start this research.”
\nTo investigate, the team worked with 12 cats and six types of commercially available dry food. One option emerged as a clear favourite, but preference did not stop the pattern.
\nWhen the cats were given the same food repeatedly over a two-hour period, they ate less with each serving. This happened even with their most preferred option.
\nAs the study notes, food intake “gradually decreased with repeated presentation of the same diet”, suggesting that something beyond simple satiety was at play.
\nBut when the meals changed between servings, the cats ate more overall. A similar effect appeared when a new food was introduced after several rounds of the same one.
\nEven more striking, the researchers found that “food intake recovered when a novel diet was presented”, including cases where the new option had previously ranked lower in preference.
\n![\"cat](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/6ef9e847-cat-waiting-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp\")
Smell alone also made a difference: cats exposed to the same food odour between meals ate less, while a new scent paired with the same food encouraged them to eat more.
\n“What our basic research suggests is that smell is an important factor in feline appetite,” Miyazaki concluded.
\nThe findings align with what scientists already know about humans, where repeated exposure to the same food can dull both taste perception and the desire to keep eating.
\nThere are, however, limits to the study: it involved a small group of cats, none of which was neutered or spayed.
\nOther factors may also influence appetite. Some owners, for instance, believe whisker contact with bowls affects eating, though evidence for that remains limited.
\nStill, the research opens up some practical possibilities. Changing odour cues may help support feeding in cats with poor appetite, such as older or sick cats,” Miyazaki suggested.
\n“For example, it may be helpful to change the smell of food by adding something like a topper or sprinkle.”
\nOn the flipside, sticking to a consistent diet could help manage weight in cats that tend to overeat.
\nThe team plans to dig deeper into how the brain and body respond to these sensory cues. Future work may look at changes in blood glucose and hormones, as well as studies involving cats of different ages and health conditions.
\nSo the next time your cat demands dinner, takes a few bites and dramatically walks off, it may not be rejecting you. It may just be thinking: same ol’ smell, same ol’ story.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: Your cat cries like it has not eaten in days. You rush to fill the bowl. It takes a few bites ... then walks away.\nSound familiar? Science may finally have an answer to this daily feline drama - and it turns out your cat isn't necessarily being difficult, it's just bored of the smell.\nRecent research from Japan suggests that cats do not always stop eating simply because they are full. Instead, their noses may be calling the shots.\nIn a study published in Physiology & Behavior, researchers observed that cats gradually lost interest when given the same dry food repeatedly. Yet the moment something new was introduced, whether a new flavour or even just a different smell, their appetite bounced right back.\n“This suggests that olfactory habituation and dishabituation play an important role in feeding motivation in cats,” said Masao Miyazaki, a professor of veterinary medicine at Iwate University and senior author of the study.\nAnyone who lives with cats will recognise the pattern of half-finished meals. While some felines may return to nibble throughout the day, others seem to expect their humans to refresh the bowl as if the leftovers no longer exist.\nIt is a behaviour Miyazaki himself noticed at home. “I have five dogs, and they tend to eat their food very quickly. In contrast, when I feed the cats used in our research, they eat slowly and often leave some food behind,” he outlined.\n“At one point, I became very curious about this difference, which led me to start this research.”\nTo investigate, the team worked with 12 cats and six types of commercially available dry food. One option emerged as a clear favourite, but preference did not stop the pattern.\nWhen the cats were given the same food repeatedly over a two-hour period, they ate less with each serving. This happened even with their most preferred option.\nAs the study notes, food intake “gradually decreased with repeated presentation of the same diet”, suggesting that something beyond simple satiety was at play.\nBut when the meals changed between servings, the cats ate more overall. A similar effect appeared when a new food was introduced after several rounds of the same one.\nEven more striking, the researchers found that “food intake recovered when a novel diet was presented”, including cases where the new option had previously ranked lower in preference.\n\nSmell alone also made a difference: cats exposed to the same food odour between meals ate less, while a new scent paired with the same food encouraged them to eat more.\n“What our basic research suggests is that smell is an important factor in feline appetite,” Miyazaki concluded.\nThe findings align with what scientists already know about humans, where repeated exposure to the same food can dull both taste perception and the desire to keep eating.\nThere are, however, limits to the study: it involved a small group of cats, none of which was neutered or spayed.\nOther factors may also influence appetite. Some owners, for instance, believe whisker contact with bowls affects eating, though evidence for that remains limited.\nStill, the research opens up some practical possibilities. Changing odour cues may help support feeding in cats with poor appetite, such as older or sick cats,” Miyazaki suggested.\n“For example, it may be helpful to change the smell of food by adding something like a topper or sprinkle.”\nOn the flipside, sticking to a consistent diet could help manage weight in cats that tend to overeat.\nThe team plans to dig deeper into how the brain and body respond to these sensory cues. Future work may look at changes in blood glucose and hormones, as well as studies involving cats of different ages and health conditions.\nSo the next time your cat demands dinner, takes a few bites and dramatically walks off, it may not be rejecting you. It may just be thinking: same ol' smell, same ol' story.","date_published":"2026-04-19T00:00:37.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Pets","Top Lifestyle","Animals","cat food","cats","feline behaviour","nature","pets","research","Science"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/b2968cf5-makanlah-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/b2968cf5-makanlah-envato-elements-pic-18426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/when-a-wedding-reception-becomes-a-hike-to-remember","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/when-a-wedding-reception-becomes-a-hike-to-remember","title":"When a wedding reception becomes a hike to remember","summary":"A trek in songket, a shared climb, and a party on a hilltop make for a celebration few will forget.","content_html":"![\"married](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4725e0af-lifestyle-married-emel-pic-180426.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: Most couples choose ballrooms or gardens for their wedding reception. For Haniin Omar and Rahmat Samad, the perfect venue was at the top of a hill.
\nThe couple, aged 50 and 60 respectively, held their reception on April 5 at the summit of Bukit 527 in Salak Perdana, Sepang, in the company of over 200 fellow hikers.
\nThe idea came about simply: with limited time to secure a venue, friends from their hiking community suggested holding the celebration on the hilltop, where basic facilities such as canopies, a surau and toilets were already available.
\nWhat followed, however, was anything but ordinary. Clad in traditional songket, Haniin and Rahmat made their way up the 192m hill alongside their guests – a climb that quickly turned into one of the most memorable moments of Haniin’s life.
\n“We’re used to hiking, so wearing outfits like baju kurung or baju Melayu is no problem,” she said. “But songket is thicker and more restrictive, so we had to move more slowly.”
\nA journey that would usually take about 10 minutes stretched to around 35, as the couple and their guests made their careful ascent in full wedding attire.
\nThe celebration reflected the spirit of their close-knit community: the reception was attended mainly by members of Tebas Hikers, along with friends from other groups.
\nGuests were treated to a hearty spread of favourites, including nasi minyak, ayam masak merah, daging masak hitam, dalca, pajeri and fresh fruits.
\n![\"bluewedding](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/7dc98784-lifestyle-bluewedding-emel-pic-180426.webp\")
Getting the food to the top was no small feat. “We had it catered, but getting it up the hill required teamwork,” Haniin recalled.
\n“Since there were many of us, each of us carried something,” she added, noting that this sense of shared effort made the day even more meaningful.
\nThe unique celebration captured public attention after a video went viral on social media, drawing admiration for its creativity and warmth.
\nThe couple were earlier married in a ceremony at Masjid Kariah Bukit Kadir in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan on April 4. They plan to hold a thanksgiving event in Haniin’s hometown of Muar, Johor soon.
\nFor Haniin, the experience was about more than just an unusual venue. It was a reflection of a life shared with like-minded people, and a reminder that meaningful moments do not always need elaborate settings.
\nSometimes, they just need the right company and a little adventure.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: Most couples choose ballrooms or gardens for their wedding reception. For Haniin Omar and Rahmat Samad, the perfect venue was at the top of a hill.\nThe couple, aged 50 and 60 respectively, held their reception on April 5 at the summit of Bukit 527 in Salak Perdana, Sepang, in the company of over 200 fellow hikers.\nThe idea came about simply: with limited time to secure a venue, friends from their hiking community suggested holding the celebration on the hilltop, where basic facilities such as canopies, a surau and toilets were already available.\nWhat followed, however, was anything but ordinary. Clad in traditional songket, Haniin and Rahmat made their way up the 192m hill alongside their guests - a climb that quickly turned into one of the most memorable moments of Haniin’s life.\n“We’re used to hiking, so wearing outfits like baju kurung or baju Melayu is no problem,” she said. “But songket is thicker and more restrictive, so we had to move more slowly.”\nA journey that would usually take about 10 minutes stretched to around 35, as the couple and their guests made their careful ascent in full wedding attire.\nThe celebration reflected the spirit of their close-knit community: the reception was attended mainly by members of Tebas Hikers, along with friends from other groups.\nGuests were treated to a hearty spread of favourites, including nasi minyak, ayam masak merah, daging masak hitam, dalca, pajeri and fresh fruits.\n\nGetting the food to the top was no small feat. “We had it catered, but getting it up the hill required teamwork,” Haniin recalled.\n“Since there were many of us, each of us carried something,\" she added, noting that this sense of shared effort made the day even more meaningful.\nThe unique celebration captured public attention after a video went viral on social media, drawing admiration for its creativity and warmth.\nThe couple were earlier married in a ceremony at Masjid Kariah Bukit Kadir in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan on April 4. They plan to hold a thanksgiving event in Haniin's hometown of Muar, Johor soon.\nFor Haniin, the experience was about more than just an unusual venue. It was a reflection of a life shared with like-minded people, and a reminder that meaningful moments do not always need elaborate settings.\nSometimes, they just need the right company and a little adventure.","date_published":"2026-04-18T23:30:01.000Z","author":{"name":"Bernama"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","heartwarming","hiking","inspirational","marriage","wedding"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4725e0af-lifestyle-married-emel-pic-180426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4725e0af-lifestyle-married-emel-pic-180426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/malaysian-golfer-natasha-oon-making-waves-in-us","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/malaysian-golfer-natasha-oon-making-waves-in-us","title":"Malaysian golfer Natasha Oon making waves in US","summary":"The rookie is a favourite not only among golf fans, but also journalists covering the LPGA Tour.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4e58b36c-natasha-andrea-oon-afp-pic-18426.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: A young Malaysian is making waves on the US women’s golfing scene – both on and off the course.
\nNatasha Andrea Oon, 24, who was born in Jakarta, Indonesia, and raised in Kuala Lumpur, has been chalking up some impressive scores on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour in 2026, after a two-year layoff because of a serious leg injury.
\nEarlier this year, she tied for 60th position at the Ford Championship and tied for 53rd at the Fortinet Founders Cup.
\nOn Thursday, she fired a 6-under 66 in the opening round of the JM Eagle LA Championship for a tie for 3rd, but fell back with a +6 score on Friday.
\nOff the course, Natasha has become a favourite among journalists covering the LPGA Tour, particularly for her candid comments.
\nAfter a tough day recently, she was quoted as telling reporters: “I said golf was fun, but today I might be a liar”.
\nAnother report said she brings a breath of fresh air each time she appears for a post-round press conference.
\n“Her interviews are fascinating because she’s just as interested in asking reporters genuine questions as she is in answering the ones thrown her way. People can’t get enough of her eccentric self,” one writer said.
\nNatasha said she is just being herself.
\n“People are coming up to me and telling me, ‘Oh, I love your interviews’,” she said. “Honestly, I’m just being myself. I think it’s cool to have that reception and know that I could be a little relatable with people. I’ve gone through a tough time, and my walls are down.”
\nNatasha has also been described as a “quirky, charming and unafraid” rookie who brings a high-energy “rockstar” presence to the course.
\nReports said she connects well with the fans, with one outlet comparing her ability to electrify the atmosphere to “scoring a goal in the Fifa World Cup”.
\nNatasha started playing golf at a young age, often accompanying her father, Sam Oon, to the Royal Selangor Golf Club.
\nWhen she was just 12, she won a car after making a hole-in-one at the 40th RSGC Ladies Amateur Open Championship.
\n“It’s been pretty blurred, it’s been a while,” she later recalled. “I did get my 15 minutes of fame. It was just crazy because I didn’t even see the ball go in the hole. We all thought it was some kind of small car that I got, but my dad came from his office in that moment, and we all got to ride in another version of the car. It was like I won the tournament before the tournament even finished.”
\nNatasha later went to San Jose State University in the US before turning professional in 2023. She won the 2023 Murphy USA El Dorado Shootout on the Epson Tour, earning her full LPGA Tour membership.
\nThen came her injury – diagnosed as sesamoid stress fracture – in her right foot, which forced her to miss the entire 2024 and 2025 seasons. She returned to competitive golf this year via the Epson Tour and a medical exemption.
\nNatasha, an Inkster Senior Award recipient, now has World Golf Hall of Famer Juli Inkster and her husband Brian to help her with her game, including the mental side of it.
\n“She’s not afraid to show her emotions,” Inkster, a winner of seven major championships, said. “She’s not afraid to let people know who she is. I love that about her. When I played, you could tell if I was shooting 65 or 85. She’s kind of that same way. She’s not reserved. She’s not afraid to step up.”
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: A young Malaysian is making waves on the US women's golfing scene - both on and off the course.\nNatasha Andrea Oon, 24, who was born in Jakarta, Indonesia, and raised in Kuala Lumpur, has been chalking up some impressive scores on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour in 2026, after a two-year layoff because of a serious leg injury.\nEarlier this year, she tied for 60th position at the Ford Championship and tied for 53rd at the Fortinet Founders Cup.\nOn Thursday, she fired a 6-under 66 in the opening round of the JM Eagle LA Championship for a tie for 3rd, but fell back with a +6 score on Friday.\nOff the course, Natasha has become a favourite among journalists covering the LPGA Tour, particularly for her candid comments.\nAfter a tough day recently, she was quoted as telling reporters: “I said golf was fun, but today I might be a liar”.\nAnother report said she brings a breath of fresh air each time she appears for a post-round press conference.\n“Her interviews are fascinating because she’s just as interested in asking reporters genuine questions as she is in answering the ones thrown her way. People can’t get enough of her eccentric self,” one writer said.\nNatasha said she is just being herself.\n“People are coming up to me and telling me, ‘Oh, I love your interviews’,” she said. “Honestly, I’m just being myself. I think it’s cool to have that reception and know that I could be a little relatable with people. I’ve gone through a tough time, and my walls are down.”\nNatasha has also been described as a “quirky, charming and unafraid” rookie who brings a high-energy “rockstar” presence to the course.\nReports said she connects well with the fans, with one outlet comparing her ability to electrify the atmosphere to “scoring a goal in the Fifa World Cup”.\nNatasha started playing golf at a young age, often accompanying her father, Sam Oon, to the Royal Selangor Golf Club.\nWhen she was just 12, she won a car after making a hole-in-one at the 40th RSGC Ladies Amateur Open Championship.\n“It’s been pretty blurred, it’s been a while,” she later recalled. “I did get my 15 minutes of fame. It was just crazy because I didn’t even see the ball go in the hole. We all thought it was some kind of small car that I got, but my dad came from his office in that moment, and we all got to ride in another version of the car. It was like I won the tournament before the tournament even finished.”\nNatasha later went to San Jose State University in the US before turning professional in 2023. She won the 2023 Murphy USA El Dorado Shootout on the Epson Tour, earning her full LPGA Tour membership.\nThen came her injury - diagnosed as sesamoid stress fracture - in her right foot, which forced her to miss the entire 2024 and 2025 seasons. She returned to competitive golf this year via the Epson Tour and a medical exemption.\nNatasha, an Inkster Senior Award recipient, now has World Golf Hall of Famer Juli Inkster and her husband Brian to help her with her game, including the mental side of it.\n“She’s not afraid to show her emotions,\" Inkster, a winner of seven major championships, said. “She’s not afraid to let people know who she is. I love that about her. When I played, you could tell if I was shooting 65 or 85. She’s kind of that same way. She’s not reserved. She’s not afraid to step up.”","date_published":"2026-04-18T23:15:27.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Highlight","Lifestyle","Top Lifestyle","Sports","Golf","Top Sports","lpga","Natasha Andrea Oon","professional golfer"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4e58b36c-natasha-andrea-oon-afp-pic-18426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4e58b36c-natasha-andrea-oon-afp-pic-18426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/a-lifetime-of-vigilance-in-the-skies-and-on-the-ground","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/19/a-lifetime-of-vigilance-in-the-skies-and-on-the-ground","title":"A lifetime of vigilance in the skies and on the ground","summary":"Retired aircraft engineer Alexander Idiculas looks back on four decades of keeping planes and people safe.","content_html":"![\"Alex\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4b1061f9-alex-adrian-david-pic-18426.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: For more than four decades, Alexander Idiculas worked behind the scenes, ensuring aircraft took off and landed safely. It was a job that demanded precision, discipline, and, above all, vigilance.
\nOne day in 1982, those qualities would be put to the test. A licensed aircraft maintenance engineer, he was carrying out a routine inspection on a Malaysia Airlines Fokker F27 at Subang Airport when something caught his eye.
\n“I was on duty alone,” he recalled. “While passing the No 2 engine at the starboard side, I noticed that there was not enough clearance between the exhaust unit and the jet pipe. As a result, the engine appeared to have sunk slightly.”
\nSensing something wrong, he removed the cover of the engine. “I discovered a completely sheared top engine-mount tube” – a serious fault that, left undetected, could have compromised the aircraft’s safety, with potentially devastating consequences.
\nAlexander immediately alerted his superior, and the aircraft was grounded. The Rolls-Royce Dart engine, worth an estimated RM1.5 million, was replaced before the aircraft returned to service.
\nAt the time, the F27 had a strong safety record within MAS, making the discovery all the more critical.
\n![\"COMMEND](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ade4906f-commend-email-pic-18426.webp\")
For Alexander, it was simply part of the job, but the airline’s management saw it differently. In a commendation letter dated Aug 19, 1982, quality-control supervisor Ng Fook Meng praised his “high degree of alertness and professionalism”.
\nAlexander was later recognised with an outstanding performance award, and received a certificate and RM100 from then MAS chairman Raja Mohar Raja Badiozaman.
\nThe airline’s general manager also commended his careful judgment and technical skill, urging him to maintain the same high standards throughout his career.
\nAlexander did just that.
\nThe 1982 incident may have stood out, but it was far from the only measure of his work. It reflected the kind of discipline and attention to detail he had built over more than a decade in aviation.
\nAlexander had joined the then Malaysia-Singapore Airlines as an apprentice in 1971, starting from the ground up in a field that would launch a career spanning 43 years.
\nHe built his expertise through both training and experience, including a stint in Oxford, England, where he attended a course on piston-engine aircraft.
\nColleagues would come to know him as someone who did not shy away from challenges – on the job or beyond it. Case in point: in 1975, he scaled Mount Kinabalu, a feat that reflected the same determination he brought to his work.
\n![\"engine](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/daaa32ff-engine-alexander-idiculas-pic-18426.webp\")
Later, in 1999, he was seconded to the Royal Malaysian Air Force, where he trained young recruits in gas-turbine and piston engines at the Alor Setar base. It was a role that reflected not just his technical knowledge but a willingness to pass it on.
\nService, in many ways, runs in the family. His father, Sgt Puthenveedu Idiculas Muthalaly, served with the British Army’s Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, and was part of the Indian Regiment involved in Operation Zipper.
\n“Every year on Sept 9, I don my father’s service medals on the right chest of my suit (as opposed to the traditional left worn by veterans) to attend a commemoration ceremony with the war veterans in Morib,” Alexander said.
\nThe amphibious landing at Morib beach on Sept 9, 1945 marked the liberation of Malaya from Japanese occupation.
\nPuthenveedu’s numerous medals, awarded for service during and after World War II, are a reminder of a different era of duty and sacrifice. And Alexander carried that sense of responsibility into his own career.
\n![\"point\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/e4f74c60-point-adrian-david-18426.webp\")
Today, at nearly 75, Alexander enjoys his retirement with his family – his wife, dentist Dr Rachael Matthew, and their daughter Maryanne, a chartered accountant and law graduate.
\nHis long career, defined not by headlines but by consistency, tells a story of diligence, steady hands and a sharp eye – the kind that keeps people safe, often without them ever knowing.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: For more than four decades, Alexander Idiculas worked behind the scenes, ensuring aircraft took off and landed safely. It was a job that demanded precision, discipline, and, above all, vigilance.\nOne day in 1982, those qualities would be put to the test. A licensed aircraft maintenance engineer, he was carrying out a routine inspection on a Malaysia Airlines Fokker F27 at Subang Airport when something caught his eye.\n“I was on duty alone,” he recalled. “While passing the No 2 engine at the starboard side, I noticed that there was not enough clearance between the exhaust unit and the jet pipe. As a result, the engine appeared to have sunk slightly.”\nSensing something wrong, he removed the cover of the engine. \"I discovered a completely sheared top engine-mount tube” - a serious fault that, left undetected, could have compromised the aircraft's safety, with potentially devastating consequences.\nAlexander immediately alerted his superior, and the aircraft was grounded. The Rolls-Royce Dart engine, worth an estimated RM1.5 million, was replaced before the aircraft returned to service.\nAt the time, the F27 had a strong safety record within MAS, making the discovery all the more critical.\n\nFor Alexander, it was simply part of the job, but the airline’s management saw it differently. In a commendation letter dated Aug 19, 1982, quality-control supervisor Ng Fook Meng praised his “high degree of alertness and professionalism”.\nAlexander was later recognised with an outstanding performance award, and received a certificate and RM100 from then MAS chairman Raja Mohar Raja Badiozaman.\nThe airline’s general manager also commended his careful judgment and technical skill, urging him to maintain the same high standards throughout his career.\nAlexander did just that.\nThe 1982 incident may have stood out, but it was far from the only measure of his work. It reflected the kind of discipline and attention to detail he had built over more than a decade in aviation.\nAlexander had joined the then Malaysia-Singapore Airlines as an apprentice in 1971, starting from the ground up in a field that would launch a career spanning 43 years.\nHe built his expertise through both training and experience, including a stint in Oxford, England, where he attended a course on piston-engine aircraft.\nColleagues would come to know him as someone who did not shy away from challenges - on the job or beyond it. Case in point: in 1975, he scaled Mount Kinabalu, a feat that reflected the same determination he brought to his work.\n\nLater, in 1999, he was seconded to the Royal Malaysian Air Force, where he trained young recruits in gas-turbine and piston engines at the Alor Setar base. It was a role that reflected not just his technical knowledge but a willingness to pass it on.\nService, in many ways, runs in the family. His father, Sgt Puthenveedu Idiculas Muthalaly, served with the British Army’s Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, and was part of the Indian Regiment involved in Operation Zipper.\n“Every year on Sept 9, I don my father’s service medals on the right chest of my suit (as opposed to the traditional left worn by veterans) to attend a commemoration ceremony with the war veterans in Morib,” Alexander said.\nThe amphibious landing at Morib beach on Sept 9, 1945 marked the liberation of Malaya from Japanese occupation.\nPuthenveedu's numerous medals, awarded for service during and after World War II, are a reminder of a different era of duty and sacrifice. And Alexander carried that sense of responsibility into his own career.\n\nToday, at nearly 75, Alexander enjoys his retirement with his family - his wife, dentist Dr Rachael Matthew, and their daughter Maryanne, a chartered accountant and law graduate.\nHis long career, defined not by headlines but by consistency, tells a story of diligence, steady hands and a sharp eye - the kind that keeps people safe, often without them ever knowing.","date_published":"2026-04-18T23:00:37.000Z","author":{"name":"Adrian David"},"tags":["Highlight","Lifestyle","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","Alexander Idiculas","aviation","British Army","inspirational","Malaysia Airlines","MAS"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4b1061f9-alex-adrian-david-pic-18426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4b1061f9-alex-adrian-david-pic-18426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/french-film-star-nathalie-baye-dead-at-77","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/french-film-star-nathalie-baye-dead-at-77","title":"French film star Nathalie Baye dead at 77","summary":"The 'Catch Me If You Can' actress starred in 80 films and took home the best actress Cesar - France's Oscars - four times.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/184d3cb6-nathalie-baye-afp-18_04_26.webp\")
PARIS: French film star Nathalie Baye, a multi-Cesar Award winner who starred in Steven Spielberg’s “Catch Me if You Can,” has died at the age of 77, her family told AFP on Saturday.
\nBaye, a stalwart of French cinema, starred in some 80 films and took home the best actress Cesar — France’s equivalent of the Oscars — four times, including three years running from 1981 to 1983.
\nShe died Friday evening at her home in Paris from Lewy body dementia, her family said.
\nThe neurodegenerative disease can alter mood, movement and provoke hallucinations.
\nBaye’s career saw a late surge of internationally high-profile roles, including playing Leonardo DiCaprio’s mother in “Catch Me if You Can” and a French aristocrat in “Downton Abbey 2”.
\nShe also worked with Canadian wunderkind Xavier Dolan, who cast her as one of his many difficult mothers in “Laurence Anyways” and “It’s Only the End of the World”.
\n“Une liaison pornographique” — whose English title was the more demure “An Affair of Love” — won her the best actress prize at the Venice film festival.
\nBaye had a five-year relationship with rocker Johnny Hallyday, dubbed the “French Elvis”, whose death in 2017 sparked national mourning.
\nTheir daughter Laura Smet is also a famous actress, who starred alongside Baye as a mock version of themselves — bickering, competitive, yet very close — in the hit series “Call My Agent!”.
\nBaye was born in 1948 in Normandy to bohemian parents who were both painters. But struggling with dyslexia, she left school at 14 and went to Monaco to learn dance.
\nHer breakthrough came in the 1970s when she teamed up with arthouse directors such as Francois Truffaut, Maurice Pialat and Claude Sautet, and then in the 1980s with Jean-Luc Godard.
\n","content_text":"PARIS: French film star Nathalie Baye, a multi-Cesar Award winner who starred in Steven Spielberg's \"Catch Me if You Can,\" has died at the age of 77, her family told AFP on Saturday.\nBaye, a stalwart of French cinema, starred in some 80 films and took home the best actress Cesar - France's equivalent of the Oscars - four times, including three years running from 1981 to 1983.\nShe died Friday evening at her home in Paris from Lewy body dementia, her family said.\nThe neurodegenerative disease can alter mood, movement and provoke hallucinations.\nBaye's career saw a late surge of internationally high-profile roles, including playing Leonardo DiCaprio's mother in \"Catch Me if You Can\" and a French aristocrat in \"Downton Abbey 2\".\nShe also worked with Canadian wunderkind Xavier Dolan, who cast her as one of his many difficult mothers in \"Laurence Anyways\" and \"It's Only the End of the World\".\n\"Une liaison pornographique\" - whose English title was the more demure \"An Affair of Love\" - won her the best actress prize at the Venice film festival.\nBaye had a five-year relationship with rocker Johnny Hallyday, dubbed the \"French Elvis\", whose death in 2017 sparked national mourning.\nTheir daughter Laura Smet is also a famous actress, who starred alongside Baye as a mock version of themselves - bickering, competitive, yet very close - in the hit series \"Call My Agent!\".\nBaye was born in 1948 in Normandy to bohemian parents who were both painters. But struggling with dyslexia, she left school at 14 and went to Monaco to learn dance.\nHer breakthrough came in the 1970s when she teamed up with arthouse directors such as Francois Truffaut, Maurice Pialat and Claude Sautet, and then in the 1980s with Jean-Luc Godard.","date_published":"2026-04-18T09:06:13.000Z","author":{"name":"AFP"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","baye","death","film","France"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/184d3cb6-nathalie-baye-afp-18_04_26.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/184d3cb6-nathalie-baye-afp-18_04_26.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/18/mechanics-late-night-kindness-goes-viral-on-tiktok","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/18/mechanics-late-night-kindness-goes-viral-on-tiktok","title":"Mechanic’s late-night kindness goes viral on TikTok","summary":"A mechanic’s decision to waive a repair fee after noticing a customer’s low e-wallet balance draws widespread praise online.","content_html":"![\"minyak](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f2b03589-minyak-hitam-jalanan-ss-180426.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: What began as a routine roadside repair late one night became an act of humanity when a motorcycle mechanic chose compassion over payment.
\nIn a now-viral TikTok video, the Malay mechanic with the handle @minyakhitamjalanan said he was called around 12.30am to fix a Chinese man’s motorcycle that had broken down by the roadside after its chain snapped and the front sprocket went missing.
\nThe mechanic quoted a total fee of RM145, comprising RM25 for the front sprocket, RM80 for the chain and RM40 for labour.
\n\nAfter completing the repair, however, he noticed the customer had a remaining balance of RM176 in his Touch ’n Go e-wallet, and asked if the man would still have money for food after paying for the repair.
\nThe customer appeared hesitant but repeatedly insisted on paying the full charges. However, the mechanic told him he would not have to pay for the service.
\n“It’s okay. Today I help you in your time of need, and if I need help in the future, others will help me too,” the mechanic said in the video, which has gathered close to 500,000 likes and over 15,000 comments.
\nOvercome with emotion, the man stepped forward and embraced the mechanic.
\nNetizens flooded the comments section with praise, hailing the mechanic’s empathy and generosity. Many described the act as a reminder that kindness leaves a lasting impression, even in small gestures.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: What began as a routine roadside repair late one night became an act of humanity when a motorcycle mechanic chose compassion over payment.\nIn a now-viral TikTok video, the Malay mechanic with the handle @minyakhitamjalanan said he was called around 12.30am to fix a Chinese man's motorcycle that had broken down by the roadside after its chain snapped and the front sprocket went missing.\nThe mechanic quoted a total fee of RM145, comprising RM25 for the front sprocket, RM80 for the chain and RM40 for labour.\n\nAfter completing the repair, however, he noticed the customer had a remaining balance of RM176 in his Touch ’n Go e-wallet, and asked if the man would still have money for food after paying for the repair.\nThe customer appeared hesitant but repeatedly insisted on paying the full charges. However, the mechanic told him he would not have to pay for the service.\n“It’s okay. Today I help you in your time of need, and if I need help in the future, others will help me too,” the mechanic said in the video, which has gathered close to 500,000 likes and over 15,000 comments.\nOvercome with emotion, the man stepped forward and embraced the mechanic.\nNetizens flooded the comments section with praise, hailing the mechanic’s empathy and generosity. Many described the act as a reminder that kindness leaves a lasting impression, even in small gestures.","date_published":"2026-04-18T04:10:12.000Z","author":{"name":"Elill Easwaran"},"tags":["Highlight","Top News","Malaysia","Lifestyle","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","empathy","free","human interest","kindness","motorbike","repair","TikTok","video","viral"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f2b03589-minyak-hitam-jalanan-ss-180426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f2b03589-minyak-hitam-jalanan-ss-180426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/fmt-op-ed-writer-shortlisted-for-commonwealth-short-story-prize","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/fmt-op-ed-writer-shortlisted-for-commonwealth-short-story-prize","title":"FMT op-ed writer shortlisted for Commonwealth Short Story Prize","summary":"Mohamed Nasser Mohamed’s deeply personal story transforms grief into a powerful narrative that resonates with readers globally.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/c754ae7e-mohamed-nasser-mohamed-lifestyle-emel-pic-170426-1.webp\")
SHAH ALAM: It began with a single shoe, a lone object left behind after everything else had been washed away by the devastating flood.
\nBut for 62-year-old writer Mohamed Nasser Mohamed, that image carried the weight of grief, memory, and something harder to name. The kind of loss that never quite finds closure.
\nThat story – written in Bahasa Malaysia, shaped by lived experience, and later translated into English by writer-translator Pauline Fan – has now carried him onto one of the world’s biggest literary platforms.
\nNasser is the sole Malaysian shortlisted for the 2026 Commonwealth Short Story Prize, a global competition that drew 7,806 entries from 54 countries. And only 25 writers from 14 countries made the cut.
\n“I honestly feel both surprised and deeply humbled. Being shortlisted was never something I expected when I first submitted the story,” Nasser shared with FMT Lifestyle.
\n“It began as a very personal narrative. To now be in a position where I am representing Malaysia at an international level feels like a responsibility as much as it is an honour.”
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2bde6770-pauline-fan-lifestyle-fmt-170426-1.webp\")
After years of writing human interest stories – particularly for FMT’s Malay section – this moment feels less like a breakthrough and more like quiet affirmation.
\nNasser’s shortlisted story, written over two months and titled “Separuh Yang Hilang”, follows a couple who lose their daughter in a sudden flood – leaving behind only a single shoe, a haunting symbol of unresolved grief.
\nIt draws from his experience volunteering in Kelantan during the 2014 floods.
\n“Witnessing the emotional aftermath, especially among families who lost loved ones, left a lasting impression on me,” he said. “Every time floods occur, those memories return, and this story became my way of processing and honouring those experiences.”
\nRather than turning that grief into something overtly dramatic, Nasser chose restraint. The story unfolds unassumingly, allowing emotion to surface without force, a choice that translator Fan believes is key to its impact.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f98f1416-mohamed-nasser-mohamed-lifestyle-emel-pic-170426-2.webp\")
“I was struck by how it handles grief and natural disaster in a quiet, controlled way. It’s emotionally powerful without being overwhelming, and that kind of restraint really stands out,” Fan, creative director of cultural organisation Pusaka, recalled.
\n“There were even moments when I teared up while I was translating it.”
\nOne of the defining aspects of Nasser’s journey is his decision to write in BM – not as a limitation, but as a strength.
\n“The opportunity to write in Malay was particularly meaningful to me,” he noted. “Writing in my most comfortable language allows me to express emotions and nuances more naturally.”
\nThat choice has paid off: his story stands alongside works written in English and other global languages, a reminder that powerful storytelling is not bound by language.
\n“Part of the process was trying to capture that voice without losing its essence,” Fan said.
\nNasser’s path to this moment has been anything but linear. Born in India, he moved to Malaysia at age six and grew up in Tanjung Karang, Selangor. His career spans television – including seven years at TV3 – and publishing, where he has worked on over 150 book titles as a consulting editor.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ed64a306-mohamed-nasser-mohamed-lifestyle-emel-pic-170426-3.webp\")
Today, he continues that journey with Nuha Books, a company founded by his daughter. But at the heart of it all is storytelling.
\n“Facts inform, but stories connect,” he said. “That connection is what draws me to writing.”
\nHis influences reflect that philosophy, from Malaysia’s A Samad Said to international writers like R K Narayan and Khaled Hosseini – all known for capturing the human condition with clarity and depth.
\nBeyond personal achievement, Nasser sees this moment as something larger. “It reassures me that stories rooted in local experiences can still resonate globally, and that gives me quiet confidence moving forward.”
\nWhether he wins or not, Nasser hopes to encourage other Malaysian writers to step forward and explore opportunities like this.
\n“Competitions like this are not just about winning; they are about exposure, growth, and learning. By participating, writers challenge themselves and gain confidence. Sometimes, the biggest barrier is simply not trying,” Nasser concluded.
\nFind out more about the Commonwealth Short Story Prize here.
\n","content_text":"SHAH ALAM: It began with a single shoe, a lone object left behind after everything else had been washed away by the devastating flood.\nBut for 62-year-old writer Mohamed Nasser Mohamed, that image carried the weight of grief, memory, and something harder to name. The kind of loss that never quite finds closure.\nThat story - written in Bahasa Malaysia, shaped by lived experience, and later translated into English by writer-translator Pauline Fan - has now carried him onto one of the world’s biggest literary platforms.\nNasser is the sole Malaysian shortlisted for the 2026 Commonwealth Short Story Prize, a global competition that drew 7,806 entries from 54 countries. And only 25 writers from 14 countries made the cut.\n“I honestly feel both surprised and deeply humbled. Being shortlisted was never something I expected when I first submitted the story,” Nasser shared with FMT Lifestyle.\n“It began as a very personal narrative. To now be in a position where I am representing Malaysia at an international level feels like a responsibility as much as it is an honour.”\n\nAfter years of writing human interest stories - particularly for FMT’s Malay section - this moment feels less like a breakthrough and more like quiet affirmation.\nNasser’s shortlisted story, written over two months and titled “Separuh Yang Hilang”, follows a couple who lose their daughter in a sudden flood - leaving behind only a single shoe, a haunting symbol of unresolved grief.\nIt draws from his experience volunteering in Kelantan during the 2014 floods.\n“Witnessing the emotional aftermath, especially among families who lost loved ones, left a lasting impression on me,” he said. “Every time floods occur, those memories return, and this story became my way of processing and honouring those experiences.”\nRather than turning that grief into something overtly dramatic, Nasser chose restraint. The story unfolds unassumingly, allowing emotion to surface without force, a choice that translator Fan believes is key to its impact.\n\n“I was struck by how it handles grief and natural disaster in a quiet, controlled way. It’s emotionally powerful without being overwhelming, and that kind of restraint really stands out,” Fan, creative director of cultural organisation Pusaka, recalled.\n“There were even moments when I teared up while I was translating it.”\nOne of the defining aspects of Nasser’s journey is his decision to write in BM - not as a limitation, but as a strength.\n“The opportunity to write in Malay was particularly meaningful to me,” he noted. “Writing in my most comfortable language allows me to express emotions and nuances more naturally.”\nThat choice has paid off: his story stands alongside works written in English and other global languages, a reminder that powerful storytelling is not bound by language.\n“Part of the process was trying to capture that voice without losing its essence,” Fan said.\nNasser’s path to this moment has been anything but linear. Born in India, he moved to Malaysia at age six and grew up in Tanjung Karang, Selangor. His career spans television - including seven years at TV3 - and publishing, where he has worked on over 150 book titles as a consulting editor.\n\nToday, he continues that journey with Nuha Books, a company founded by his daughter. But at the heart of it all is storytelling.\n“Facts inform, but stories connect,” he said. “That connection is what draws me to writing.”\nHis influences reflect that philosophy, from Malaysia’s A Samad Said to international writers like R K Narayan and Khaled Hosseini - all known for capturing the human condition with clarity and depth.\nBeyond personal achievement, Nasser sees this moment as something larger. “It reassures me that stories rooted in local experiences can still resonate globally, and that gives me quiet confidence moving forward.”\nWhether he wins or not, Nasser hopes to encourage other Malaysian writers to step forward and explore opportunities like this.\n“Competitions like this are not just about winning; they are about exposure, growth, and learning. By participating, writers challenge themselves and gain confidence. Sometimes, the biggest barrier is simply not trying,” Nasser concluded.\nFind out more about the Commonwealth Short Story Prize here.","date_published":"2026-04-18T01:00:59.000Z","author":{"name":"Dinesh Kumar Maganathan @ FMT Lifestyle"},"tags":["Highlight","Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","author","Commonwealth Short Story Prize","mohamed nasser mohamed","Pauline Fan","short story","shortlist"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/c754ae7e-mohamed-nasser-mohamed-lifestyle-emel-pic-170426-1.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/c754ae7e-mohamed-nasser-mohamed-lifestyle-emel-pic-170426-1.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/watching-food-videos-could-actually-help-your-diet-study-suggests","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/watching-food-videos-could-actually-help-your-diet-study-suggests","title":"Watching food videos could actually help your diet, study suggests","summary":"According to new research, dieters who spend more time on indulgent content could end up eating less in real life.","content_html":"![\"BURGER\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/06024fe7-burger-envato-elements-pic-17426.webp\")
LONDON: If you have ever found yourself scrolling through videos of cheesy burgers or gooey desserts while trying to eat clean, you are not alone – and it might not be as counterproductive as it seems.
\nA new study led by the University of Bristol suggests that people on a diet tend to spend more time looking at high-calorie food content on social media, but may actually end up eating less when faced with the real thing.
\nIn other words, watching the food could help curb the craving.
\nResearchers found that participants who were dieting lingered longer on videos of indulgent foods compared with non-dieters, even when healthier options were available alongside them.
\nIn one experiment involving chocolate desserts, dieters spent about 30% more time watching videos of high-calorie treats.
\nBut when the participants were later given actual chocolate, the same group showed significantly more restraint, consuming less than those who were not dieting.
\n“It may sound counterintuitive, but our findings show that people, particularly those trying to control their diet, can use visual food content as a self-regulation tool,” said lead author Esther Kang from the University of Bristol.
\nThe research suggests that engaging with food imagery, from short-form videos to curated social media posts, may offer a kind of “safe outlet” for cravings.
\n“Engaging with food imagery may help satisfy cravings without actual consumption,” Kang said, adding that the accessibility of such content today could make it a simple and non-invasive way to support dietary goals.
\nThe study involved 840 participants aged between 19 and 77, combining online surveys with controlled lab experiments.
\nIn another test, participants were shown videos of junk food such as pizza and chips alongside healthier options like salads, yoghurt and smoothies.
\nOnce again, dieters were drawn to the less healthy options, spending around 50% longer watching them than non-dieters.
\nKang described this behaviour as a form of “digital foraging”, where people seek out visual cues of indulgent food without necessarily acting on them.
\n“Contrary to what might be expected, when given the chance to actually eat the food, they exercised much more self-control,” she said.
\nWith weight loss continuing to be a major focus for many, the findings point to an unexpected role for social media in shaping eating habits.
\nWhile Kang stressed that food imagery is no substitute for real dietary discipline, she noted that it could complement efforts to manage cravings.
\n“We’re not claiming imagery can replace the desire to eat chocolate or other indulgent foods, but it may help people reduce or avoid overindulgence,” she said.
\nSo the next time you catch yourself watching yet another slow-motion cheese pull, it might not be sabotaging your diet after all – it could just be helping you stick to it.
\n","content_text":"LONDON: If you have ever found yourself scrolling through videos of cheesy burgers or gooey desserts while trying to eat clean, you are not alone - and it might not be as counterproductive as it seems.\nA new study led by the University of Bristol suggests that people on a diet tend to spend more time looking at high-calorie food content on social media, but may actually end up eating less when faced with the real thing.\nIn other words, watching the food could help curb the craving.\nResearchers found that participants who were dieting lingered longer on videos of indulgent foods compared with non-dieters, even when healthier options were available alongside them.\nIn one experiment involving chocolate desserts, dieters spent about 30% more time watching videos of high-calorie treats.\nBut when the participants were later given actual chocolate, the same group showed significantly more restraint, consuming less than those who were not dieting.\n“It may sound counterintuitive, but our findings show that people, particularly those trying to control their diet, can use visual food content as a self-regulation tool,\" said lead author Esther Kang from the University of Bristol.\nThe research suggests that engaging with food imagery, from short-form videos to curated social media posts, may offer a kind of “safe outlet” for cravings.\n“Engaging with food imagery may help satisfy cravings without actual consumption,” Kang said, adding that the accessibility of such content today could make it a simple and non-invasive way to support dietary goals.\nThe study involved 840 participants aged between 19 and 77, combining online surveys with controlled lab experiments.\nIn another test, participants were shown videos of junk food such as pizza and chips alongside healthier options like salads, yoghurt and smoothies.\nOnce again, dieters were drawn to the less healthy options, spending around 50% longer watching them than non-dieters.\nKang described this behaviour as a form of “digital foraging”, where people seek out visual cues of indulgent food without necessarily acting on them.\n“Contrary to what might be expected, when given the chance to actually eat the food, they exercised much more self-control,” she said.\nWith weight loss continuing to be a major focus for many, the findings point to an unexpected role for social media in shaping eating habits.\nWhile Kang stressed that food imagery is no substitute for real dietary discipline, she noted that it could complement efforts to manage cravings.\n“We’re not claiming imagery can replace the desire to eat chocolate or other indulgent foods, but it may help people reduce or avoid overindulgence,\" she said.\nSo the next time you catch yourself watching yet another slow-motion cheese pull, it might not be sabotaging your diet after all - it could just be helping you stick to it.","date_published":"2026-04-18T00:40:27.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Health & Family","Top Lifestyle","diet","dieting","food","health","social media","tech","trends","willpower"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/06024fe7-burger-envato-elements-pic-17426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/06024fe7-burger-envato-elements-pic-17426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/from-floodwaters-to-full-boats-hatyais-floating-market-finds-its-footing-again","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/from-floodwaters-to-full-boats-hatyais-floating-market-finds-its-footing-again","title":"From floodwaters to full boats, Hatyai’s floating market finds its footing again","summary":"Traders rebuild from loss as visitors, including Malaysians, return - bringing hope, life and colour back to Khlong Hae.","content_html":"![\"Blue](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/fdb11c93-blue-skies-lie-ahead-for-traders-at-khlong-hae-floating-market-bernama-pic-17426.webp\")
SONGKHLA: The scent of grilled seafood drifts across the water, mingling with the chatter of visitors and the familiar rhythm of bargaining.
\nAt Khlong Hae Floating Market in Hatyai, life has returned. Just months after devastating floods left the area submerged in mud and debris, the market is once again alive with colour and movement, its boats laden with food, its walkways filled with visitors.
\nBut behind the lively scenes are stories of loss, resilience and determination. For food trader Abdul Rahman Ismail, the memory of last November still lingers.
\n“The water rose too quickly, we had no time to save anything. Almost everything was damaged and we were forced to close for quite some time,” the 52-year-old recalled.
\nThe floodwaters swallowed boats, cooking equipment and prepared ingredients, leaving him without an income and facing the high cost of starting over.
\n“The period was the most challenging moment for me in more than a decade since operating at the market,” he added.
\nIn the days that followed the floods, the market remained blanketed in thick mud and debris, making clean-up efforts slow and exhausting.
\nDriven by shared determination, traders came together to restore what had been lost, working side by side to clear the area and repair damaged facilities. Support also came from the local community, with volunteers stepping in to help bring the market back on its feet.
\n“Although we were exhausted, we helped one another. Little by little, the market has returned to how it once was,” 45-year-old beverage trader Siti Mariam Yusof shared.
\n![\"Travellers\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/e8a5a8fc-travellers-including-those-from-malaysia-have-begun-returning-to-the-market-bernama-pic-17426.webp\")
Located just 4.4km from Hatyai city centre, the floating market reopened to visitors in mid-January. Today, its energy has returned, thanks in large part to the steady flow of domestic and foreign tourists – particularly Malaysians – who have begun making their way back.
\nVisitors from Kelantan, Kedah and Perlis are once again among the most visible groups, playing a key role in reviving the market’s economy.
\nRows of boats brim with popular Thai favourites such as tom yam, mango sticky rice and fresh seafood, drawing crowds eager to savour the experience of dining and shopping on the water.
\nA visit to the market is as much about atmosphere as it is about food. Families stroll along the walkways, pausing to take in the sights, while others gather at the edge of the water to order dishes directly from vendors in their boats.
\nFor many Malaysian visitors, the return feels especially meaningful. Nurul Hidayah Salleh from Kelantan said she was excited to finally see the market for herself, after having only seen images of the flood’s aftermath online.
\n“I came with my family and the changes are very noticeable,” the 30-year-old observed, adding: “The traders are friendly and the food is very appealing.”
\nMuhammad Firdaus Hassan, 34, said the floating market remains a must-visit whenever he travels to Hatyai. “Now, it is livelier than before. We are happy to support the traders after what they have gone through,” the Kedahan shared.
\nThe floods, the worst in two decades, affected nearly 360,000 people across southern Thailand and claimed more than 100 lives.
\n","content_text":"SONGKHLA: The scent of grilled seafood drifts across the water, mingling with the chatter of visitors and the familiar rhythm of bargaining.\nAt Khlong Hae Floating Market in Hatyai, life has returned. Just months after devastating floods left the area submerged in mud and debris, the market is once again alive with colour and movement, its boats laden with food, its walkways filled with visitors.\nBut behind the lively scenes are stories of loss, resilience and determination. For food trader Abdul Rahman Ismail, the memory of last November still lingers.\n“The water rose too quickly, we had no time to save anything. Almost everything was damaged and we were forced to close for quite some time,” the 52-year-old recalled.\nThe floodwaters swallowed boats, cooking equipment and prepared ingredients, leaving him without an income and facing the high cost of starting over.\n“The period was the most challenging moment for me in more than a decade since operating at the market,” he added.\nIn the days that followed the floods, the market remained blanketed in thick mud and debris, making clean-up efforts slow and exhausting.\nDriven by shared determination, traders came together to restore what had been lost, working side by side to clear the area and repair damaged facilities. Support also came from the local community, with volunteers stepping in to help bring the market back on its feet.\n“Although we were exhausted, we helped one another. Little by little, the market has returned to how it once was,” 45-year-old beverage trader Siti Mariam Yusof shared.\n\nLocated just 4.4km from Hatyai city centre, the floating market reopened to visitors in mid-January. Today, its energy has returned, thanks in large part to the steady flow of domestic and foreign tourists - particularly Malaysians - who have begun making their way back.\nVisitors from Kelantan, Kedah and Perlis are once again among the most visible groups, playing a key role in reviving the market’s economy.\nRows of boats brim with popular Thai favourites such as tom yam, mango sticky rice and fresh seafood, drawing crowds eager to savour the experience of dining and shopping on the water.\nA visit to the market is as much about atmosphere as it is about food. Families stroll along the walkways, pausing to take in the sights, while others gather at the edge of the water to order dishes directly from vendors in their boats.\nFor many Malaysian visitors, the return feels especially meaningful. Nurul Hidayah Salleh from Kelantan said she was excited to finally see the market for herself, after having only seen images of the flood’s aftermath online.\n“I came with my family and the changes are very noticeable,\" the 30-year-old observed, adding: \"The traders are friendly and the food is very appealing.\"\nMuhammad Firdaus Hassan, 34, said the floating market remains a must-visit whenever he travels to Hatyai. “Now, it is livelier than before. We are happy to support the traders after what they have gone through,” the Kedahan shared.\nThe floods, the worst in two decades, affected nearly 360,000 people across southern Thailand and claimed more than 100 lives.","date_published":"2026-04-18T00:20:39.000Z","author":{"name":"Bernama"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Travel","Top Lifestyle","Floods","Hat Yai","Khlong Hae","Thailand","tourism","traders","travel"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/fdb11c93-blue-skies-lie-ahead-for-traders-at-khlong-hae-floating-market-bernama-pic-17426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/fdb11c93-blue-skies-lie-ahead-for-traders-at-khlong-hae-floating-market-bernama-pic-17426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/as-the-heat-rises-so-does-demand-for-this-traditional-herbal-drink","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/as-the-heat-rises-so-does-demand-for-this-traditional-herbal-drink","title":"As the heat rises, so does demand for this traditional herbal drink","summary":"For one Kelantan couple, the hot weather is turning 'ubi gegeli' into a steady source of income.","content_html":"![\"drying](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/5d61d3ef-drying-ubi-gegeli-zulkhairul-and-roselina-bernama-pic-17426.webp\")
KOTA BHARU: While many are struggling to cope with the recent hot spell, one Kelantan couple has found an unexpected silver lining. For Zulkhairul Anuar Abu Bakar and his wife Roselina Zakaria, the heat has been good for business.
\nFrom their home in Kampung Permatang Pusu in Melor here, the couple produces ubi gegeli, a traditional herb that is popular as a cooling drink during warm weather.
\nThanks to the sun, production has never been easier. “When it is hot, ubi gegeli can be dried within a day, as opposed to three to four days before,” Zulkhairul, 51, told Bernama.
\nUbi gegeli, or “Lasia spinosa”, is a plant that typically grows wild in swampy or marshy areas. Long used in traditional remedies, it is now finding renewed interest among those looking for natural ways to cope with the heat.
\nZulkhairul explained that the faster drying time means they can produce more dried ubi gegeli, the stems of which are also in demand. “It has become our main source of income,” he shared.
\nSourcing the plant, too, has become easier during the dry season, as swampy areas begin to recede, revealing clusters growing in padi fields and along abandoned drains.
\nBack home, Roselina, 47, handles much of the preparation. The process begins with cleaning the plant thoroughly, removing roots and thorns before slicing it into pieces and leaving it to dry in the sun.
\nTiming is everything. “If the weather is good, we can process and sell it on the same day. But if it is not fully dried, it can spoil easily,” she said.
\n![\"Ubi](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/b1b83cc8-ubi-gegeli-soup-bernama-pic-17426.webp\")
The couple now sells between 40 and 50 packets of the dried produce a day, with daily demand reaching up to 10kg. Apart from regular customers, their products are distributed through local agents.
\nZulkhairul and Roselina shared that they initially started drying ubi gegeli for their own consumption – a practice that turned, over time, into a small business.
\n“We then began selling to villagers at RM20 per packet. The response was encouraging, so we expanded,” she recalled.
\nThese days, that expansion includes social media: the couple promotes their products on platforms like TikTok, reaching customers beyond their immediate community and tapping into a wider interest in traditional, homegrown remedies.
\nPart of the appeal lies in what people believe the drink can do. Boiled ubi gegeli water is said to help cool the body, making it especially popular during periods of intense heat.
\nWhether consumed for its perceived health benefits or simply to slake thirst, demand continues to rise whenever temperatures climb.
\nFor Zulkhairul and Roselina, it is a reminder that even in challenging weather, there are opportunities to be found.
\n","content_text":"KOTA BHARU: While many are struggling to cope with the recent hot spell, one Kelantan couple has found an unexpected silver lining. For Zulkhairul Anuar Abu Bakar and his wife Roselina Zakaria, the heat has been good for business.\nFrom their home in Kampung Permatang Pusu in Melor here, the couple produces ubi gegeli, a traditional herb that is popular as a cooling drink during warm weather.\nThanks to the sun, production has never been easier. “When it is hot, ubi gegeli can be dried within a day, as opposed to three to four days before,” Zulkhairul, 51, told Bernama.\nUbi gegeli, or \"Lasia spinosa\", is a plant that typically grows wild in swampy or marshy areas. Long used in traditional remedies, it is now finding renewed interest among those looking for natural ways to cope with the heat.\nZulkhairul explained that the faster drying time means they can produce more dried ubi gegeli, the stems of which are also in demand. \"It has become our main source of income,\" he shared.\nSourcing the plant, too, has become easier during the dry season, as swampy areas begin to recede, revealing clusters growing in padi fields and along abandoned drains.\nBack home, Roselina, 47, handles much of the preparation. The process begins with cleaning the plant thoroughly, removing roots and thorns before slicing it into pieces and leaving it to dry in the sun.\nTiming is everything. “If the weather is good, we can process and sell it on the same day. But if it is not fully dried, it can spoil easily,\" she said.\n\nThe couple now sells between 40 and 50 packets of the dried produce a day, with daily demand reaching up to 10kg. Apart from regular customers, their products are distributed through local agents.\nZulkhairul and Roselina shared that they initially started drying ubi gegeli for their own consumption - a practice that turned, over time, into a small business.\n“We then began selling to villagers at RM20 per packet. The response was encouraging, so we expanded,\" she recalled.\nThese days, that expansion includes social media: the couple promotes their products on platforms like TikTok, reaching customers beyond their immediate community and tapping into a wider interest in traditional, homegrown remedies.\nPart of the appeal lies in what people believe the drink can do. Boiled ubi gegeli water is said to help cool the body, making it especially popular during periods of intense heat.\nWhether consumed for its perceived health benefits or simply to slake thirst, demand continues to rise whenever temperatures climb.\nFor Zulkhairul and Roselina, it is a reminder that even in challenging weather, there are opportunities to be found.","date_published":"2026-04-18T00:00:17.000Z","author":{"name":"Bernama"},"tags":["Highlight","Lifestyle","Food","Top Lifestyle","entrepreneurs","flora","herbal drinks","herbs","Kelantan","nature","Simple Stories","ubi gegeli"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/5d61d3ef-drying-ubi-gegeli-zulkhairul-and-roselina-bernama-pic-17426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/5d61d3ef-drying-ubi-gegeli-zulkhairul-and-roselina-bernama-pic-17426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/weekends-by-the-roadside-francis-poh-gives-strays-a-second-chance-at-life","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/weekends-by-the-roadside-francis-poh-gives-strays-a-second-chance-at-life","title":"Weekends by the roadside: Francis Poh gives strays a second chance at life","summary":"The Klang-based rescuer, who has spent 12 years helping animals find homes, is seeking adopters for puppies from his current mission.","content_html":"![\"Francis](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/997bddf4-interview-man-doing-standing-adoption-8.webp\")
KLANG: For more than a decade, Francis Poh’s weekends have looked very different from most.
\nWhile others rest or spend time with family, the 43-year-old can be found by the roadside here, standing for up to 12 hours at a stretch – in the heat or rain – with a simple goal: to help stray animals find a home.
\nDespite working full-time at an entertainment agency, Poh continues to devote his days off to rescuing abandoned animals and placing them in safer environments.
\nPoh said relying on social media alone is not enough, especially for mixed-breed puppies that often struggle to attract attention.
\n“I’ve tried rehoming them through social media, but the response is limited. Sometimes no one even asks about them,” he told FMT.
\n“So I have to go out to the streets, where more people can see them.”
\nIt is the small, difficult moments that have stayed with him over the years, especially seeing strays injured or killed on the road.
\n“It breaks my heart every time it happens. If we can help, why not give them a chance to live in a proper home?”
\n![\"Francis](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/52955445-interview-man-doing-standing-adoption-16.webp\")
His latest effort began when a stray dog in his neighbourhood gave birth to 11 puppies. Within just two weeks, Poh managed to find homes for eight of them – a small victory that keeps him going.
\nNow, his focus is on the remaining three.
\nHelping him along the way is his neighbour, Parimala Balakrishnan, 53, who has been caring for the puppies since they were born.
\n“I don’t think anyone else would do what Francis does. He stands from morning until night for these animals – it’s something extraordinary,” she said, describing him as funny, humble and kind.
\n![\"man](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/26bc3aea-interview-man-doing-standing-adoption-4.webp\")
After 12 years, his routine has not changed much – and neither has his belief that even small efforts can make a difference.
\nStill, this time, the process has taken longer than usual. It has been 14 weeks, and Poh admits he is beginning to worry as the puppies grow older, which could make it harder for them to be adopted.
\nStill, he remains hopeful that the public will help spread the word about this mission.
\n“There are only three puppies left, and I really hope they can find new homes as soon as possible,” he concluded.
\n\nIf you wish to adopt, kindly contact Poh via Facebook or Instagram.
\n","content_text":"KLANG: For more than a decade, Francis Poh’s weekends have looked very different from most.\nWhile others rest or spend time with family, the 43-year-old can be found by the roadside here, standing for up to 12 hours at a stretch - in the heat or rain - with a simple goal: to help stray animals find a home.\nDespite working full-time at an entertainment agency, Poh continues to devote his days off to rescuing abandoned animals and placing them in safer environments.\nPoh said relying on social media alone is not enough, especially for mixed-breed puppies that often struggle to attract attention.\n“I’ve tried rehoming them through social media, but the response is limited. Sometimes no one even asks about them,” he told FMT.\n“So I have to go out to the streets, where more people can see them.\"\nIt is the small, difficult moments that have stayed with him over the years, especially seeing strays injured or killed on the road.\n“It breaks my heart every time it happens. If we can help, why not give them a chance to live in a proper home?”\n\nHis latest effort began when a stray dog in his neighbourhood gave birth to 11 puppies. Within just two weeks, Poh managed to find homes for eight of them - a small victory that keeps him going.\nNow, his focus is on the remaining three.\nHelping him along the way is his neighbour, Parimala Balakrishnan, 53, who has been caring for the puppies since they were born.\n“I don’t think anyone else would do what Francis does. He stands from morning until night for these animals - it’s something extraordinary,” she said, describing him as funny, humble and kind.\n\nAfter 12 years, his routine has not changed much - and neither has his belief that even small efforts can make a difference.\nStill, this time, the process has taken longer than usual. It has been 14 weeks, and Poh admits he is beginning to worry as the puppies grow older, which could make it harder for them to be adopted.\nStill, he remains hopeful that the public will help spread the word about this mission.\n“There are only three puppies left, and I really hope they can find new homes as soon as possible,” he concluded.\n\nIf you wish to adopt, kindly contact Poh via Facebook or Instagram.","date_published":"2026-04-17T23:30:40.000Z","author":{"name":"Azureen Zainal"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Pets","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","animal rescuer","Animals","dogs","Francis Poh","heartwarming","pets","social causes"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/997bddf4-interview-man-doing-standing-adoption-8.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/997bddf4-interview-man-doing-standing-adoption-8.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/honouring-nanyangs-unsung-volunteer-drivers-and-mechanics","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/18/honouring-nanyangs-unsung-volunteer-drivers-and-mechanics","title":"Honouring Nanyang’s unsung volunteer drivers and mechanics","summary":"From Malaya to the Burma Road, the story of three brothers reflects the sacrifice of thousands who answered the wartime call.","content_html":"![\"MONUMENT\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/d4d6297c-monument-harchand-singh-bedi-pic-17426.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: When three Sikh brothers from Taiping, Perak answered the call to serve in China during wartime, they did so with courage and conviction.
\nKartar Singh, Dara Singh and Sardara Singh left home together to work along the Burma Road, a dangerous but vital supply route linking Kunming, China to Lashio, Burma.
\nSadly, one of them would not make it home.
\nTheir story stands as a powerful tribute to the patriotism of the overseas non-Chinese community and their role in China’s struggle against aggression, as well as the broader fight against fascism.
\nOn July 7, 1937, the Sino-Japanese War began, prompting the Chinese government to secure alternative supply routes as Japanese naval forces blockaded its seaports. This led to the construction of the Burma Road – China’s only lifeline to the outside world.
\nHowever, given a severe shortage of skilled drivers and mechanics, the China Relief Fund led by Tan Kah Kee launched a recruitment drive across Nanyang, or Southeast Asia, on Feb 7, 1939.
\nBy September, more than 3,000 volunteers had responded, including not only those of Chinese descent but also Malays, Indians, and a contingent of Chinese women.
\nBetween February and August 1939, these volunteers travelled from Malaya and Singapore in several groups, serving primarily as truck drivers and mechanics. Their role was crucial: to transport military supplies from Lashio to Kunming.
\n![\"PAHANG](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/4a6192a6-pahang-kwong-tong-cemetery-association-kuala-lumpur-pic-17426.webp\")
The Burma Road, stretching some 1,150km through rugged terrain, was both a lifeline and a perilous path. The sacrifices were immense, with nearly half of the volunteers believed to have lost their lives due to illness, accidents or Japanese air attacks.
\nIt has been said that for every 1km of road, a life was lost.
\nThe Nanyang Volunteers became indispensable to wartime logistics, ensuring vital supplies continued to reach China despite immense challenges. Many later chose to remain in Yunnan, their lives forever intertwined with the land they had served.
\nRecords from the Yunnan Provincial Archives, dated June 30, 1941, shed light on the contribution of non-Chinese volunteers. In the second brigade of the Overseas Transportation Teams alone, there were 97 individuals – 55 Indians, 18 Malays, 11 Burmese and two Indonesians, with around 20 of the Indians identified as Sikhs.
\nAmong them were the three brothers from Taiping.
\nTheir story continues through Dara Singh, who was born in 1914 into a family with a strong legacy of service. His father, Mota Singh, had served in Mesopotamia in 1915.
\n![\"3](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/aff2bbb1-3-people-harbhajan-singh-pics-17426.webp\")
Dara was educated at King Edward VII School in Taiping, where he passed the Senior Cambridge examination. In 1934, he joined the Malayan police force as a drill instructor before leaving to train as a motor mechanic.
\nThis combination of discipline, technical skill and education would later prove invaluable. When the call for volunteers came, Dara and several of his fellow alumni answered it, joining the transport division of Chiang Kai-shek’s forces along the Burma Road.
\nLike many others, they were sent to Kunming, becoming part of the convoy system transporting essential supplies to China’s wartime capital, Chungking.
\nThe contingent from Malaya earned a reputation for skill and dedication. For Dara, life in China brought heavy responsibilities: he oversaw more than 1,000 lorries in Paoshan, ensuring each reached its destination safely – a task that carried immense pressure.
\nOn one occasion, he was involved in a frightening accident while driving a supply bus. The front axle suddenly snapped, sending the vehicle out of control.
\nMiraculously, he survived unhurt. Those around him were deeply relieved, knowing how easily the incident could have ended in tragedy.
\n![\"family](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/5f77441c-family-harbhajan-singh-pic-17426.webp\")
When the war ended, Dara and Kartar returned home, carrying with them the memory of their brother who did not.
\nTheir loss, like that of many others, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by volunteers far from home.
\nToday, memorials such as the Kwong Tong Cemetery in Kuala Lumpur and the Ayer Itam Memorial in Penang stand as tributes to this extraordinary chapter of history.
\nMore than 3,000 volunteers from Southeast Asia – both Chinese and non-Chinese alike – came together in a shared effort during one of the darkest periods of the 20th century.
\nTheir courage, resilience and unity form an enduring legacy that deserves to be remembered.
\nHarchand Singh Bedi is a historian, researcher and writer from Ipoh.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: When three Sikh brothers from Taiping, Perak answered the call to serve in China during wartime, they did so with courage and conviction.\nKartar Singh, Dara Singh and Sardara Singh left home together to work along the Burma Road, a dangerous but vital supply route linking Kunming, China to Lashio, Burma.\nSadly, one of them would not make it home.\nTheir story stands as a powerful tribute to the patriotism of the overseas non-Chinese community and their role in China’s struggle against aggression, as well as the broader fight against fascism.\nOn July 7, 1937, the Sino-Japanese War began, prompting the Chinese government to secure alternative supply routes as Japanese naval forces blockaded its seaports. This led to the construction of the Burma Road - China’s only lifeline to the outside world.\nHowever, given a severe shortage of skilled drivers and mechanics, the China Relief Fund led by Tan Kah Kee launched a recruitment drive across Nanyang, or Southeast Asia, on Feb 7, 1939.\nBy September, more than 3,000 volunteers had responded, including not only those of Chinese descent but also Malays, Indians, and a contingent of Chinese women.\nBetween February and August 1939, these volunteers travelled from Malaya and Singapore in several groups, serving primarily as truck drivers and mechanics. Their role was crucial: to transport military supplies from Lashio to Kunming.\n\nThe Burma Road, stretching some 1,150km through rugged terrain, was both a lifeline and a perilous path. The sacrifices were immense, with nearly half of the volunteers believed to have lost their lives due to illness, accidents or Japanese air attacks.\nIt has been said that for every 1km of road, a life was lost.\nThe Nanyang Volunteers became indispensable to wartime logistics, ensuring vital supplies continued to reach China despite immense challenges. Many later chose to remain in Yunnan, their lives forever intertwined with the land they had served.\nRecords from the Yunnan Provincial Archives, dated June 30, 1941, shed light on the contribution of non-Chinese volunteers. In the second brigade of the Overseas Transportation Teams alone, there were 97 individuals – 55 Indians, 18 Malays, 11 Burmese and two Indonesians, with around 20 of the Indians identified as Sikhs.\nAmong them were the three brothers from Taiping.\nTheir story continues through Dara Singh, who was born in 1914 into a family with a strong legacy of service. His father, Mota Singh, had served in Mesopotamia in 1915.\n\nDara was educated at King Edward VII School in Taiping, where he passed the Senior Cambridge examination. In 1934, he joined the Malayan police force as a drill instructor before leaving to train as a motor mechanic.\nThis combination of discipline, technical skill and education would later prove invaluable. When the call for volunteers came, Dara and several of his fellow alumni answered it, joining the transport division of Chiang Kai-shek’s forces along the Burma Road.\nLike many others, they were sent to Kunming, becoming part of the convoy system transporting essential supplies to China’s wartime capital, Chungking.\nThe contingent from Malaya earned a reputation for skill and dedication. For Dara, life in China brought heavy responsibilities: he oversaw more than 1,000 lorries in Paoshan, ensuring each reached its destination safely – a task that carried immense pressure.\nOn one occasion, he was involved in a frightening accident while driving a supply bus. The front axle suddenly snapped, sending the vehicle out of control.\nMiraculously, he survived unhurt. Those around him were deeply relieved, knowing how easily the incident could have ended in tragedy.\n\nWhen the war ended, Dara and Kartar returned home, carrying with them the memory of their brother who did not.\nTheir loss, like that of many others, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by volunteers far from home.\nToday, memorials such as the Kwong Tong Cemetery in Kuala Lumpur and the Ayer Itam Memorial in Penang stand as tributes to this extraordinary chapter of history.\nMore than 3,000 volunteers from Southeast Asia – both Chinese and non-Chinese alike – came together in a shared effort during one of the darkest periods of the 20th century.\nTheir courage, resilience and unity form an enduring legacy that deserves to be remembered.\nHarchand Singh Bedi is a historian, researcher and writer from Ipoh.","date_published":"2026-04-17T23:00:28.000Z","author":{"name":"Harchand Singh Bedi"},"tags":["Highlight","Lifestyle","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","Burma Road","Harchand Singh Bedi","History","Malaya","Nanyang","Sikhs","Sino-Japanese war"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/d4d6297c-monument-harchand-singh-bedi-pic-17426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/d4d6297c-monument-harchand-singh-bedi-pic-17426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/kpops-biggest-labels-consider-creating-coachella-style-global-festival","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/kpops-biggest-labels-consider-creating-coachella-style-global-festival","title":"Kpop’s biggest labels consider creating Coachella-style global festival","summary":"The idea of a global music festival comes amidst a broader push by president Lee Jae-myung to promote the industry internationally.","content_html":"![\"Kpop](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/46a5f8e0-kpop-demon-hunters.jpg\")
SEOUL: South Korea’s biggest Kpop agencies are in talks to join forces on a global music festival that could bring together the industry’s top stars, in what some local media have billed as a Korean version of the mega US festival Coachella.
\nHYBE, SM Entertainment, YG Entertainment and JYP Entertainment said in a statement they are preparing to set up a joint venture to develop the “Fanomenon” event, a large-scale festival aimed at showcasing Korean popular culture to a global audience.
\nThe talks also involve the government’s Popular Culture Exchange Committee, as the companies look for new ways to expand Kpop’s global footprint through industry-wide cooperation rather than individual company projects.
\nFanomenon – a term combining “fan” and “phenomenon” – was unveiled last year by JYP founder Park Jin-young, who co-chairs the committee.
\nAt its launch in October, Park said the ambition was to create a recurring mega festival starting in South Korea and eventually touring cities worldwide, with the aim of rivaling leading international music festivals such as Coachella.
\nUnder Park’s vision, the festival could begin as early as 2027 in South Korea, followed by overseas editions from 2028, featuring a broad lineup spanning Kpop and other elements of Korean popular culture.
\nThe discussions come amid a broader push by President Lee Jae Myung to promote the Kpop industry, after assigning Park to spearhead those efforts and pledging strong government backing while staying out of artistic decisions.
\nThe companies stressed, however, that discussions remained at an early stage and no concrete business plans, schedules or operating structures had been finalised. They said the joint venture was being considered as a possible model for cooperation and that required procedures, including filing with the Fair Trade Commission, were under way.
\nDecisions will be made cautiously as talks continue, the companies said, taking into account market conditions and views across the industry.
\n","content_text":"SEOUL: South Korea's biggest Kpop agencies are in talks to join forces on a global music festival that could bring together the industry's top stars, in what some local media have billed as a Korean version of the mega US festival Coachella.\nHYBE, SM Entertainment, YG Entertainment and JYP Entertainment said in a statement they are preparing to set up a joint venture to develop the \"Fanomenon\" event, a large-scale festival aimed at showcasing Korean popular culture to a global audience.\nThe talks also involve the government's Popular Culture Exchange Committee, as the companies look for new ways to expand Kpop's global footprint through industry-wide cooperation rather than individual company projects.\nFanomenon - a term combining \"fan\" and \"phenomenon\" - was unveiled last year by JYP founder Park Jin-young, who co-chairs the committee.\nAt its launch in October, Park said the ambition was to create a recurring mega festival starting in South Korea and eventually touring cities worldwide, with the aim of rivaling leading international music festivals such as Coachella.\nUnder Park's vision, the festival could begin as early as 2027 in South Korea, followed by overseas editions from 2028, featuring a broad lineup spanning Kpop and other elements of Korean popular culture.\nThe discussions come amid a broader push by President Lee Jae Myung to promote the Kpop industry, after assigning Park to spearhead those efforts and pledging strong government backing while staying out of artistic decisions.\nThe companies stressed, however, that discussions remained at an early stage and no concrete business plans, schedules or operating structures had been finalised. They said the joint venture was being considered as a possible model for cooperation and that required procedures, including filing with the Fair Trade Commission, were under way.\nDecisions will be made cautiously as talks continue, the companies said, taking into account market conditions and views across the industry.","date_published":"2026-04-17T08:17:36.000Z","author":{"name":"Reuters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","biggest","Coachella-style","consider","creating","festival","global","kpop","labels"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/46a5f8e0-kpop-demon-hunters.jpg","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/46a5f8e0-kpop-demon-hunters.jpg"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/marvel-premieres-first-avengers-doomsday-trailer-at-cinemacon","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/marvel-premieres-first-avengers-doomsday-trailer-at-cinemacon","title":"Marvel premieres first ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ trailer at CinemaCon","summary":"The first theatrical trailer offers a first look at Robert Downey Jr as villain Doctor Doom and Chris Evans returning as Captain America.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/7d77101c-avengers-doomsday-1.jpg\")
LAS VEGAS: Disney showcased the first theatrical trailer of the new Marvel franchise film “Avengers: Doomsday” on Thursday during the closing day of CinemaCon in Las Vegas.
\nThe clip – played twice for the enthusiastic audience at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace – offered the first look at Robert Downey Jr as the villainous Doctor Doom.
\nIt marks the actor’s return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe since the death of Iron Man in 2019’s “Avengers: Endgame.”
\nThe footage also teased several dramatic moments from the movie, including a fight between Gambit and Shang-Chi – played by Channing Tatum and Simu Liu, respectively – and Patrick Stewart reprising his role as X-Men’s Professor Xavier, warning: “Something’s coming, something we may not be able to deter.”
\nAt the very end of the trailer, Chris Evans returns as his character Steve Rogers, otherwise known as Captain America, appearing before a surprised-looking Thor (Chris Hemsworth) as the Norse god’s Mjolnir hammer flies into Rogers’ hands.
\nBoth Evans and Downey Jr were on the stage at CinemaCon to present the trailer alongside the film’s directors, brothers Joe and Anthony Russo.
\n“I said I would only come back if there was a real reason,” Evans told the crowd.
\n“And in Doomsday, there is a very real reason that these heroes need Steve Rogers.”
\n“Avengers: Doomsday” follows the events of “Avengers: Endgame,” bringing together a host of Marvel characters new and old, including the X-Men, previously excluded from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
\nThe movie will have its US premiere on December 18, the same day as Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune: Part Three.”
\nTheater owners hope the double-whammy will be a box office bonanza, ending the year on a high note amid declining revenues.
\nSequels on the way
\nMarvel’s presentation was the grande finale of Disney’s CinemaCon showcase.
\nThe annual convention allows movie studios to preview their upcoming slates to theater owners and the press.
\nTom Hanks, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Queen Latifah were among the superstars to showcase footage from their upcoming Disney films.
\nDirector Jon Favreau introduced the opening scene of his new movie, the latest Star Wars flick “The Mandalorian and Grogu,” out next month.
\nDisney also played clips from the upcoming sequel films “The Devil Wears Prada 2” with Meryl Streep reprising her role as icy fashion magazine editor Miranda Priestly, and “Toy Story 5,” the latest Pixar animated film with lifelike toys Woody and Buzz Lightyear coming together more than 30 years since the original released.
\n","content_text":"LAS VEGAS: Disney showcased the first theatrical trailer of the new Marvel franchise film \"Avengers: Doomsday\" on Thursday during the closing day of CinemaCon in Las Vegas.\nThe clip - played twice for the enthusiastic audience at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace - offered the first look at Robert Downey Jr as the villainous Doctor Doom.\nIt marks the actor's return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe since the death of Iron Man in 2019's \"Avengers: Endgame.\"\nThe footage also teased several dramatic moments from the movie, including a fight between Gambit and Shang-Chi - played by Channing Tatum and Simu Liu, respectively - and Patrick Stewart reprising his role as X-Men's Professor Xavier, warning: \"Something's coming, something we may not be able to deter.\"\nAt the very end of the trailer, Chris Evans returns as his character Steve Rogers, otherwise known as Captain America, appearing before a surprised-looking Thor (Chris Hemsworth) as the Norse god's Mjolnir hammer flies into Rogers' hands.\nBoth Evans and Downey Jr were on the stage at CinemaCon to present the trailer alongside the film's directors, brothers Joe and Anthony Russo.\n\"I said I would only come back if there was a real reason,\" Evans told the crowd.\n\"And in Doomsday, there is a very real reason that these heroes need Steve Rogers.\"\n\"Avengers: Doomsday\" follows the events of \"Avengers: Endgame,\" bringing together a host of Marvel characters new and old, including the X-Men, previously excluded from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.\nThe movie will have its US premiere on December 18, the same day as Denis Villeneuve's \"Dune: Part Three.\"\nTheater owners hope the double-whammy will be a box office bonanza, ending the year on a high note amid declining revenues.\nSequels on the way\nMarvel's presentation was the grande finale of Disney's CinemaCon showcase.\nThe annual convention allows movie studios to preview their upcoming slates to theater owners and the press.\nTom Hanks, Dwayne \"The Rock\" Johnson and Queen Latifah were among the superstars to showcase footage from their upcoming Disney films.\nDirector Jon Favreau introduced the opening scene of his new movie, the latest Star Wars flick \"The Mandalorian and Grogu,\" out next month.\nDisney also played clips from the upcoming sequel films \"The Devil Wears Prada 2\" with Meryl Streep reprising her role as icy fashion magazine editor Miranda Priestly, and \"Toy Story 5,\" the latest Pixar animated film with lifelike toys Woody and Buzz Lightyear coming together more than 30 years since the original released.","date_published":"2026-04-17T03:26:53.000Z","author":{"name":"AFP"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","Avengers: Doomsday","CinemaCon","Doctor Doom","Marvel","Robert Downey Jr."],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/7d77101c-avengers-doomsday-1.jpg","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/7d77101c-avengers-doomsday-1.jpg"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/17/well-deployed-ai-can-improve-road-safety-say-experts","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/17/well-deployed-ai-can-improve-road-safety-say-experts","title":"Well-deployed, AI can improve road safety, say experts","summary":"Academics say that beyond enforcing the law, deploying artificial intelligence can help to identify behaviour and conditions that endanger road users.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/5c6a2769-car-overtaking-trailer-envato-elements-pic-150426-2-1.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: Beyond merely ensuring proper law enforcement, artificial intelligence (AI) has the capability to keep the roads safe for everyone if the right conditions are in place, according to two experts.
\nFor instance, it can help the authorities detect risky driving behaviour and identify blackspots before accidents happen, they told FMT.
\nThey said that employing AI to analyse traffic patterns, monitor driver behaviour and flag high-risk locations will enable earlier intervention that may even help to save lives.
\nHowever, the two academics also cautioned that such a system would require access to sufficient local data, inter-agency cooperation, and human oversight to be effective.
\n\nThese remarks by Yuen Choon Wah of Universiti Malaya and Sunway University’s Hadyan Hafizh are in response to the growing interest in how technology can be deployed to improve road safety following recent cases of fatal road accidents.
\nYuen, who heads his varsity’s centre for transportation research, said AI can be used to identify repeat offenders, including motorists with a history of traffic violations or unpaid summonses while providing researchers with better insights into accident hotspots.
\nSuch analysis, he added, can also highlight deeper issues related to road design and infrastructure.
\nYuen noted that AI already has the potential applications that can be used to monitor traffic and enforcement, factors that can ultimately improve road safety.
\n“Once enforcement improves, it can help reduce traffic crashes,” he said.
\nHowever, he also stressed that AI systems cannot operate in isolation.
\n“We cannot rely 100% on AI output. It still has to be verified by professional engineers,” he said, underscoring the need for human oversight.
\nYuen said there still are challenges that have to be overcome to ensure AI is effective in ensuring road safety. One of these is the limited access to usable data from local authorities, transport operators, and private companies.
\n“That is one of our biggest challenges. Without data, we cannot do much at scale,” he said, adding that stronger data-sharing mechanisms are essential.
\nHadyan said discussions on AI and road safety should not be limited to surveillance and issuing of summonses.
\nHe said AI has the potential to play a wider role. “For instance, it can be used to detect early warning signs of accidents, such as sudden braking patterns, dangerously merging into other lanes, blindspot conflicts, poor traffic light timing, potholes, and other road hazards,” he added.
\n“Many dangerous situations occur before an actual crash happens,” said the senior lecturer at the university’s school of computing and artificial intelligence.
\nHadyan said AI systems could be deployed in high-risk areas such as school zones, motorcycle-heavy corridors, busy junctions and known highway blackspots, using data from cameras and sensors.
\nThis, he said, could allow authorities to issue real-time warnings, adjust traffic signals, alert emergency responders or intensify enforcement in emerging risk zones.
\n“The most effective use of AI is not (to come up with) a single solution, but a combination of approaches working together to influence behaviour, support early intervention and improve the overall road environment,” he said.
\nBoth researchers said any deployment should begin on a small scale before being expanded for wider use, focusing first on high-risk corridors and known blackspots.
\nThey also stressed that AI should not be seen as a silver bullet, but rather a supporting tool that could help shift Malaysia’s road safety approach from reacting to crashes to preventing them.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: Beyond merely ensuring proper law enforcement, artificial intelligence (AI) has the capability to keep the roads safe for everyone if the right conditions are in place, according to two experts.\nFor instance, it can help the authorities detect risky driving behaviour and identify blackspots before accidents happen, they told FMT.\nThey said that employing AI to analyse traffic patterns, monitor driver behaviour and flag high-risk locations will enable earlier intervention that may even help to save lives.\nHowever, the two academics also cautioned that such a system would require access to sufficient local data, inter-agency cooperation, and human oversight to be effective.\n\nThese remarks by Yuen Choon Wah of Universiti Malaya and Sunway University’s Hadyan Hafizh are in response to the growing interest in how technology can be deployed to improve road safety following recent cases of fatal road accidents.\nYuen, who heads his varsity’s centre for transportation research, said AI can be used to identify repeat offenders, including motorists with a history of traffic violations or unpaid summonses while providing researchers with better insights into accident hotspots.\nSuch analysis, he added, can also highlight deeper issues related to road design and infrastructure.\nYuen noted that AI already has the potential applications that can be used to monitor traffic and enforcement, factors that can ultimately improve road safety.\n“Once enforcement improves, it can help reduce traffic crashes,” he said.\nHowever, he also stressed that AI systems cannot operate in isolation.\n“We cannot rely 100% on AI output. It still has to be verified by professional engineers,” he said, underscoring the need for human oversight.\nYuen said there still are challenges that have to be overcome to ensure AI is effective in ensuring road safety. One of these is the limited access to usable data from local authorities, transport operators, and private companies.\n“That is one of our biggest challenges. Without data, we cannot do much at scale,” he said, adding that stronger data-sharing mechanisms are essential.\nHadyan said discussions on AI and road safety should not be limited to surveillance and issuing of summonses.\nHe said AI has the potential to play a wider role. “For instance, it can be used to detect early warning signs of accidents, such as sudden braking patterns, dangerously merging into other lanes, blindspot conflicts, poor traffic light timing, potholes, and other road hazards,” he added.\n“Many dangerous situations occur before an actual crash happens,” said the senior lecturer at the university’s school of computing and artificial intelligence.\nHadyan said AI systems could be deployed in high-risk areas such as school zones, motorcycle-heavy corridors, busy junctions and known highway blackspots, using data from cameras and sensors.\nThis, he said, could allow authorities to issue real-time warnings, adjust traffic signals, alert emergency responders or intensify enforcement in emerging risk zones.\n“The most effective use of AI is not (to come up with) a single solution, but a combination of approaches working together to influence behaviour, support early intervention and improve the overall road environment,” he said.\nBoth researchers said any deployment should begin on a small scale before being expanded for wider use, focusing first on high-risk corridors and known blackspots.\nThey also stressed that AI should not be seen as a silver bullet, but rather a supporting tool that could help shift Malaysia’s road safety approach from reacting to crashes to preventing them.","date_published":"2026-04-17T01:30:33.000Z","author":{"name":"Predeep Nambiar"},"tags":["Highlight","Top News","Malaysia","Lifestyle","Automotive","Tech","Top Lifestyle","accident blackspots","AI","artificial intelligence","data sharing challenges","early intervention","predictive analytics","risky driving detection","road safety","smart traffic systems","traffic monitoring","transport"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/5c6a2769-car-overtaking-trailer-envato-elements-pic-150426-2-1.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/5c6a2769-car-overtaking-trailer-envato-elements-pic-150426-2-1.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/the-mummy-is-a-promising-nightmare-that-loses-its-way","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/the-mummy-is-a-promising-nightmare-that-loses-its-way","title":"‘The Mummy’ a promising nightmare that loses its way","summary":"Lee Cronin's latest film crafts an unsettling, gore-soaked reinvention rooted in family trauma, but inconsistent rules and glaring plot holes derail it.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/173949da-katie-the-mummy-warner-bros-pictures-pic-160426.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: There is nothing more terrifying than having your child kidnapped in a foreign country. The guilt alone can destroy you and tear your family apart.
\nWhat’s even more terrifying is receiving a call almost a decade later that your kidnapped child has been found… but they are no longer the same.
\nFace disfigured, arms and fingers twisted into knots, plagued by random convulsions and guttural sounds, and skin as pallid as a corpse left too long in the cold. This is the horrifying situation the Cannon family finds themselves in in “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy”.
\nA bold addition to the Mummy universe, this 120-minute film grapples with the devastating impact of losing a daughter – and the trauma of getting her back under deeply suspicious circumstances.
\nFor fans of the original franchise starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz, this horror flick does not dwell on ancient mythology or world-ending catastrophes. Instead, it leans heavily into gore, psychological horror, and pure unfiltered terror.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/dcefa8ed-sarco-the-mummy-warner-bros-pictures-pic-160426.webp\")
Lee Cronin, the Irish filmmaker behind horror films such as “The Hole in the Ground” and “Evil Dead Rise”, brings his signature sense of dread, foreboding atmosphere, and uncomfortable close-ups that make “The Mummy” quite the harrowing ride.
\nBut like any ride, there are bound to be bumps along the way… and “The Mummy” has a few glaring ones.
\n“The Mummy” follows a journalist’s family whose daughter Katie (Natalie Grace) mysteriously disappears in Egypt, leaving them shattered by grief. Eight years later, she is found – sealed inside an ancient sarcophagus. When she is brought home, it becomes clear that her ordeal has left more than physical scars.
\nWhat initially seems like trauma soon points to something far darker: an ancient force that may have come back with her, a dark being bound in a sarcophagus with an ancient spell.
\nWith the help of an Egyptian detective, the family tries to put an end to the demonic attack as strange and increasingly terrifying occurrences unfold around them.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/42a36462-parents-the-mummy-warner-bros-pictures-pic-160426.webp\")
Like Cronin’s previous horror films, “The Mummy” leans more into body horror and gore than the supernatural. Expect blood, torn flesh, and teeth and nails being painfully ripped out – it’s not for the squeamish.
\nOne particularly disturbing scene shows Katie’s mother trying to cut her overgrown, rotting toenail, only to peel away skin from her leg along with it.
\nThere is also the psychological terror of losing your daughter, getting her back after so many years, only for her to be a source of trauma.
\nBut even as Cronin draws audiences into a tense domestic horror where grief, guilt, and fear collide, the film ultimately stumbles in its final act, where logic is abandoned and its own rules are blatantly broken.
\nFor instance, when Katie’s father learns from a professor about the protective spell scripts inscribed on the linen cloths found on her body – that they are meant to contain an ancient demon that destroys families – he chooses not to tell anyone about it. Why would he keep such a crucial piece of information from his wife? It makes no logical sense, except to set up for the final battle.
\n![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/20351749-sister-the-mummy-warner-bros-pictures-pic-160426.webp\")
This leads to “The Mummy’s” nonsensical ending. How does the Egyptian detective recite a generational spell so fluently after hearing it only a few times? And when the demon transfers hosts, how do they suddenly know the exact protective scripts to inscribe on the body and walls?
\nThe biggest question: how did they transport a fully possessed host from the US to Egypt without a sarcophagus and without raising suspicion? And why didn’t the demon resist and wreak havoc? All of this contradicts the film’s own rules and undermines the experience.
\nUltimately, “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy” has enough gore and horror to keep you glued to the cinema screen but its shaky logic and underwhelming final act prevent it from fully delivering on its promise.
\n\nAs of press time, ‘Lee Cronin’s The Mummy’ is screening in cinemas nationwide.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: There is nothing more terrifying than having your child kidnapped in a foreign country. The guilt alone can destroy you and tear your family apart.\nWhat’s even more terrifying is receiving a call almost a decade later that your kidnapped child has been found… but they are no longer the same.\nFace disfigured, arms and fingers twisted into knots, plagued by random convulsions and guttural sounds, and skin as pallid as a corpse left too long in the cold. This is the horrifying situation the Cannon family finds themselves in in “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy”.\nA bold addition to the Mummy universe, this 120-minute film grapples with the devastating impact of losing a daughter - and the trauma of getting her back under deeply suspicious circumstances.\nFor fans of the original franchise starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz, this horror flick does not dwell on ancient mythology or world-ending catastrophes. Instead, it leans heavily into gore, psychological horror, and pure unfiltered terror.\n\nLee Cronin, the Irish filmmaker behind horror films such as “The Hole in the Ground” and “Evil Dead Rise”, brings his signature sense of dread, foreboding atmosphere, and uncomfortable close-ups that make “The Mummy” quite the harrowing ride.\nBut like any ride, there are bound to be bumps along the way… and “The Mummy” has a few glaring ones.\n“The Mummy” follows a journalist’s family whose daughter Katie (Natalie Grace) mysteriously disappears in Egypt, leaving them shattered by grief. Eight years later, she is found - sealed inside an ancient sarcophagus. When she is brought home, it becomes clear that her ordeal has left more than physical scars.\nWhat initially seems like trauma soon points to something far darker: an ancient force that may have come back with her, a dark being bound in a sarcophagus with an ancient spell.\nWith the help of an Egyptian detective, the family tries to put an end to the demonic attack as strange and increasingly terrifying occurrences unfold around them.\n\nLike Cronin’s previous horror films, \"The Mummy\" leans more into body horror and gore than the supernatural. Expect blood, torn flesh, and teeth and nails being painfully ripped out - it’s not for the squeamish.\nOne particularly disturbing scene shows Katie’s mother trying to cut her overgrown, rotting toenail, only to peel away skin from her leg along with it.\nThere is also the psychological terror of losing your daughter, getting her back after so many years, only for her to be a source of trauma.\nBut even as Cronin draws audiences into a tense domestic horror where grief, guilt, and fear collide, the film ultimately stumbles in its final act, where logic is abandoned and its own rules are blatantly broken.\nFor instance, when Katie’s father learns from a professor about the protective spell scripts inscribed on the linen cloths found on her body - that they are meant to contain an ancient demon that destroys families - he chooses not to tell anyone about it. Why would he keep such a crucial piece of information from his wife? It makes no logical sense, except to set up for the final battle.\n\nThis leads to “The Mummy’s” nonsensical ending. How does the Egyptian detective recite a generational spell so fluently after hearing it only a few times? And when the demon transfers hosts, how do they suddenly know the exact protective scripts to inscribe on the body and walls?\nThe biggest question: how did they transport a fully possessed host from the US to Egypt without a sarcophagus and without raising suspicion? And why didn’t the demon resist and wreak havoc? All of this contradicts the film’s own rules and undermines the experience.\nUltimately, “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy” has enough gore and horror to keep you glued to the cinema screen but its shaky logic and underwhelming final act prevent it from fully delivering on its promise.\n\nAs of press time, ‘Lee Cronin’s The Mummy’ is screening in cinemas nationwide.","date_published":"2026-04-17T01:15:48.000Z","author":{"name":"Dinesh Kumar Maganathan @ FMT Lifestyle"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","demon","Egypt","family","film","gore","horror","Lee Cronin’s The Mummy"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/173949da-katie-the-mummy-warner-bros-pictures-pic-160426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/173949da-katie-the-mummy-warner-bros-pictures-pic-160426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/sarawak-laksa-stall-serves-lobster-without-hefty-price-tag","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/sarawak-laksa-stall-serves-lobster-without-hefty-price-tag","title":"Sarawak laksa stall serves lobster without hefty price tag","summary":"Kuching vendor Mazalan Mahmud is drawing crowds with his noodle dish that blends indulgence with accessible prices.","content_html":"![\"lobster\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/8cc48e5d-lobster-lifestyle-emelpic-160426.webp\")
KUCHING: At first glance, it looks like a bowl reserved for special occasions. Plump lobster, rich broth, vibrant garnishes – the kind of dish you might expect to come with a hefty price tag.
\nBut at a modest eatery in Bako, about 30km from Sarawak’s capital city, Mazalan Mahmud has found a way to give Sarawak laksa a luxurious upgrade without pushing it out of reach.
\nHis lobster version of the beloved dish has become a crowd favourite, drawing curious diners and returning regulars alike.
\n“Sarawak laksa is already well-known, but I thought, why not elevate it with premium ingredients like lobster while keeping it affordable?” said the 46-year-old at his eatery, Dapur Lanchot.
\nThe idea, he noted, was not just about novelty, but about striking a balance between indulgence and accessibility.
\nThe lobsters are sourced fresh from local fishermen and selected based on size and weight. The laksa will set you back between RM18 and RM65 per bowl, depending on the portion – a price range Mazalan carefully maintains to keep the dish within reach of a wider crowd.
\n“I plan my ingredient purchases carefully to control costs, while ensuring the portion matches what customers pay for,” he said.
\nThat balance appears to be working: what started as a creative experiment has gained traction on social media, with customers travelling from across districts, from the peninsula, and even from overseas, to try the dish.
\n“At first, many were surprised that such a luxurious-looking bowl could be so reasonably priced,” he said. “Once they taste the broth with the natural sweetness of the lobster, they keep coming back.”
\nMazalan also operates a stall at Uptown Metrocity in Matang, where demand remains steady. On a good day, more than 20 bowls are sold, depending on seafood supply.
\n![\"currymee](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/dc8255e4-currymee-lifestyle-emelpic-160426.webp\")
The business is very much a family effort. During the recent fasting month, Mazalan, his wife Kamila Anuar, and their eldest son Amir Wafiy worked long hours to keep up with dine-in and takeaway orders.
\nToday, the Metrocity stall is managed full-time by Wafiy, 21, who brings his own following as a local influencer.
\nThe menu goes beyond lobster. Diners can choose from a variety of laksa options topped with clams, ambal (razor clams), lokan, prawns and cockles, all sourced fresh from local fishermen.
\nStill, the lobster version remains the star. But maintaining a steady supply is not always easy.
\n“Seafood depends on the season, so I usually advise customers to make reservations early,” Mazalan said.
\nBalancing consistency with authenticity is another challenge, especially when working with a dish as iconic as Sarawak laksa.
\nFor him, the popularity of his lobster laksa is more than just a business success: he wishes for it to elevate Sarawak cuisine to the international level.
\nWith its location near the Bako National Park terminal, his eatery is already becoming a natural stop for tourists.
\nAnd for many, it is a chance to try something familiar that has been reimagined: a classic dish with just enough of a twist to feel new again.
\nLearn more about Dapur Lanchot on Facebook.
\nDapur Lanchot
\nPasar Nelayan Bako,
\nJalan Bako,
\n93059 Kuching, Sarawak
![\"liver\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ab474f9f-liver-lifestyle-emelpic-040325.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: A common but often silent liver condition linked to modern lifestyles is expected to affect nearly 1.8 billion people worldwide by 2050, according to new research.
\nMetabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) – previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease – is already one of the most widespread liver conditions globally. An estimated 1.3 billion people were living with it in 2023, representing about one in six people.
\nThe findings, published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology as part of the Global Burden of Diseases (GBD) study, suggest the number of cases has risen sharply over the past three decades, increasing from around 500 million in 1990.
\nResearchers expect that figure to continue climbing, driven largely by population growth as well as lifestyle-related factors such as rising obesity and high blood sugar levels.
\nIndeed, the study – led by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington – identifies high blood sugar as the leading contributor to MASLD-related health problems worldwide. This is followed by high body mass index and smoking.
\nWhile the condition is more commonly diagnosed in older adults, the largest number of cases is now seen in middle age, particularly among men in their late 30s and women in their late 50s. Overall, men were found to be more affected than women.
\nRegional patterns also vary. According to The Guardian, prevalence rates have risen significantly in many parts of the world, including a 33% increase in the United Kingdom since 1990, as well as notable rises in Australia and the United States.
\nDespite the growing number of cases, the study offers a more nuanced picture of its impact. Measures of overall health burden – including years of life lost due to illness or early death – have remained relatively stable.
\nThis suggests that advances in detection, treatment and long-term care are helping people manage the condition more effectively, with many cases identified at earlier stages.
\n![\"obesity\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/0dc8cde9-obesity-lifestyle-emel-pic-060425-1.webp\")
Even so, the rising number of people affected means more individuals could go on to develop complications such as liver cirrhosis or cancer if the condition progresses.
\nMASLD is often associated with being overweight and typically develops without obvious symptoms. Many people only discover they have it during routine tests for unrelated health issues.
\nWhen symptoms do appear, they can include fatigue, general discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen.
\nThe study also points to disparities between countries. Nations with more limited access to healthcare may be less well equipped to manage the growing burden of the disease.
\nWith a global prevalence of just over 16%, researchers say MASLD is likely to have significant health and economic implications in the years ahead.
\nRather than signalling an immediate crisis, the findings highlight the importance of early awareness and prevention – particularly through managing weight, blood sugar and overall lifestyle – as well as strengthening healthcare systems to cope with rising demand.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: A common but often silent liver condition linked to modern lifestyles is expected to affect nearly 1.8 billion people worldwide by 2050, according to new research.\nMetabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) – previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease – is already one of the most widespread liver conditions globally. An estimated 1.3 billion people were living with it in 2023, representing about one in six people.\nThe findings, published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology as part of the Global Burden of Diseases (GBD) study, suggest the number of cases has risen sharply over the past three decades, increasing from around 500 million in 1990.\nResearchers expect that figure to continue climbing, driven largely by population growth as well as lifestyle-related factors such as rising obesity and high blood sugar levels.\nIndeed, the study - led by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington - identifies high blood sugar as the leading contributor to MASLD-related health problems worldwide. This is followed by high body mass index and smoking.\nWhile the condition is more commonly diagnosed in older adults, the largest number of cases is now seen in middle age, particularly among men in their late 30s and women in their late 50s. Overall, men were found to be more affected than women.\nRegional patterns also vary. According to The Guardian, prevalence rates have risen significantly in many parts of the world, including a 33% increase in the United Kingdom since 1990, as well as notable rises in Australia and the United States.\nDespite the growing number of cases, the study offers a more nuanced picture of its impact. Measures of overall health burden – including years of life lost due to illness or early death – have remained relatively stable.\nThis suggests that advances in detection, treatment and long-term care are helping people manage the condition more effectively, with many cases identified at earlier stages.\n\nEven so, the rising number of people affected means more individuals could go on to develop complications such as liver cirrhosis or cancer if the condition progresses.\nMASLD is often associated with being overweight and typically develops without obvious symptoms. Many people only discover they have it during routine tests for unrelated health issues.\nWhen symptoms do appear, they can include fatigue, general discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen.\nThe study also points to disparities between countries. Nations with more limited access to healthcare may be less well equipped to manage the growing burden of the disease.\nWith a global prevalence of just over 16%, researchers say MASLD is likely to have significant health and economic implications in the years ahead.\nRather than signalling an immediate crisis, the findings highlight the importance of early awareness and prevention – particularly through managing weight, blood sugar and overall lifestyle – as well as strengthening healthcare systems to cope with rising demand.","date_published":"2026-04-17T00:00:42.000Z","author":{"name":"FMT Reporters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Health & Family","Top Lifestyle","health","healthcare","liver disease","non-alcoholic fatty liver disease","research","study"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ab474f9f-liver-lifestyle-emelpic-040325.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ab474f9f-liver-lifestyle-emelpic-040325.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/dum-maro-dum-and-malaysias-quiet-rebellion","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/dum-maro-dum-and-malaysias-quiet-rebellion","title":"Dum Maro Dum and Malaysia’s quiet rebellion","summary":"When Asha Bhosle’s most defiant hit slipped past censors and found a home in the country.","content_html":"![\"Zeenat](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/392be63c-zeenat-aman-classic-films-pic-15426.webp\")
PETALING JAYA: A rebellious song, Dum Maro Dum, was born in an era when Malaysia itself was learning how to manage rebellion.
\nThe late 1960s and early 1970s were, in many ways, a study in contrasts. There was discipline at home and in school, where restraint and respect were drilled into the young.
\nYet beyond that, curiosity flowed freely. Cinemas screened risque European films and racy magazines sat on newsstands in what many still remember as an age of innocence.
\nYouth culture was being policed through anxieties about “yellow culture,” hippies, long hair, marijuana, mini-skirts, and live music events.
\nIt was a Malaysia that did not quite know where to draw the line; a generation testing the limits of taste, dress and freedom.
\nAnd into that space came a song that seemed to live on the edge of it.
\n![\"Asha](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/84e0adc2-asha-bhosle-classic-films-pic-15426.webp\")
Dum Maro Dum, sung by Asha Bhosle, was never meant to become what it did. Released in 1971 as part of the film Hare Rama Hare Krishna, it carried the imagery of a drifting youth culture: smoke, detachment, and a rejection of norms.
\nIn India, it would stir unease. In Malaysia, it would slip in more gently, but no less deeply.
\nAsha, who died on April 12 at the age of 92, sang thousands of songs across a career that defined Bollywood. But this one took on a life of its own.
\nThe song that almost disappeared
\nThe track began as an afterthought.
\nRD Burman and lyricist Anand Bakshi had been asked by Dev Anand to create a short, modern interlude for a party scene. Something light, something fleeting.
\nBakshi drew from folk rhythm: dum maro dum, mit jaaye gham — take another puff (of a joint), all worries will vanish. Burman built a sound that felt new, restless, slightly dangerous.
\nIt grew beyond its brief.
\nWhen Dev Anand heard it, he hesitated. The song felt too strong. It risked overshadowing the film itself and he considered dropping it entirely.
\nFor a moment, it hovered on the edge of disappearance.
\nThen Bhosle intervened.
\nUpset, she went to Dev Anand and argued for its place. It was too good, she insisted, to be left out.
\nHe listened. He relented.
\nThe song stayed and what followed would surprise everyone.
\nBeing part of the cultural fabric
\nIn India, Dum Maro Dum exploded — and alarmed.
\nIts imagery unsettled authorities. The suggestion of drug use, embodied by Zeenat Aman in an iconic performance, led to bans on All India Radio and cuts from television.
\nBut the more it was restricted, the more it spread. Across the region, it travelled on radio waves and film reels.
\nIn Malaysia, it landed in a society that was already negotiating its own boundaries.
\nThere were no sweeping bans on the song here, but its mood — free, suggestive, rebellious — contrasted sharply with the values being taught at home and in school.
\nAnd yet, people listened.
\nAt the height of the film’s popularity, a talent show in Seremban captured that quiet shift.
\nA Malay girl, performing a duet with her partner, took to the stage with Dum Maro Dum. She imitated Zeenat Aman’s style from the film: the attitude, the looseness, the dressing, the confidence.
\nShe won. A newspaper headline read, “Hippie girl wins talentime with Dum Maro Dum”.
\nIt was a small moment, but telling. The song had crossed not just borders, but communities.
\nIt resonated across Malaysia’s multiracial landscape, carried not as protest, but as performance.
\nIt became, in its own understated way, part of the cultural fabric.
\nThe years moved on, but the song refused to fade globally. It played in clubs and weddings, on radio and later on digital playlists.
\nIts opening riff remained instantly recognisable, its rhythm impossible to ignore.
\nArtistes revisited it and producers sampled it. Even global platforms would echo its sound decades later.
\nEach time, it returned not as nostalgia, but as something still alive.
\nPart of that endurance lies in Bhosle herself. Where the song could have been novelty, she gave it character.
\nThere was mischief in her voice, but also control. A sense that she understood exactly how far to push.
\nShe did not just sing it. She claimed it.
\nToday, as the world remembers Bhosle, Dum Maro Dum stands as more than a hit from a distant era.
\nIt is proof that some songs arrive before people are ready for them, and stay because they speak to something deeper.
\nIn India, it became a defiant anthem. In Malaysia, it became something quieter, but no less lasting: a reflection of a society learning, in its own careful way, how to look at the world beyond its boundaries.
\nIt was never meant to survive. But then, the songs that matter rarely ask for permission.
\n","content_text":"PETALING JAYA: A rebellious song, Dum Maro Dum, was born in an era when Malaysia itself was learning how to manage rebellion.\nThe late 1960s and early 1970s were, in many ways, a study in contrasts. There was discipline at home and in school, where restraint and respect were drilled into the young.\nYet beyond that, curiosity flowed freely. Cinemas screened risque European films and racy magazines sat on newsstands in what many still remember as an age of innocence.\nYouth culture was being policed through anxieties about “yellow culture,” hippies, long hair, marijuana, mini-skirts, and live music events.\nIt was a Malaysia that did not quite know where to draw the line; a generation testing the limits of taste, dress and freedom.\nAnd into that space came a song that seemed to live on the edge of it.\n\nDum Maro Dum, sung by Asha Bhosle, was never meant to become what it did. Released in 1971 as part of the film Hare Rama Hare Krishna, it carried the imagery of a drifting youth culture: smoke, detachment, and a rejection of norms.\nIn India, it would stir unease. In Malaysia, it would slip in more gently, but no less deeply.\nAsha, who died on April 12 at the age of 92, sang thousands of songs across a career that defined Bollywood. But this one took on a life of its own.\nThe song that almost disappeared\nThe track began as an afterthought.\nRD Burman and lyricist Anand Bakshi had been asked by Dev Anand to create a short, modern interlude for a party scene. Something light, something fleeting.\nBakshi drew from folk rhythm: dum maro dum, mit jaaye gham — take another puff (of a joint), all worries will vanish. Burman built a sound that felt new, restless, slightly dangerous.\nIt grew beyond its brief.\nWhen Dev Anand heard it, he hesitated. The song felt too strong. It risked overshadowing the film itself and he considered dropping it entirely.\nFor a moment, it hovered on the edge of disappearance.\nThen Bhosle intervened.\nUpset, she went to Dev Anand and argued for its place. It was too good, she insisted, to be left out.\nHe listened. He relented.\nThe song stayed and what followed would surprise everyone.\nBeing part of the cultural fabric\nIn India, Dum Maro Dum exploded — and alarmed.\nIts imagery unsettled authorities. The suggestion of drug use, embodied by Zeenat Aman in an iconic performance, led to bans on All India Radio and cuts from television.\nBut the more it was restricted, the more it spread. Across the region, it travelled on radio waves and film reels.\nIn Malaysia, it landed in a society that was already negotiating its own boundaries.\nThere were no sweeping bans on the song here, but its mood — free, suggestive, rebellious — contrasted sharply with the values being taught at home and in school.\nAnd yet, people listened.\nAt the height of the film’s popularity, a talent show in Seremban captured that quiet shift.\nA Malay girl, performing a duet with her partner, took to the stage with Dum Maro Dum. She imitated Zeenat Aman’s style from the film: the attitude, the looseness, the dressing, the confidence.\nShe won. A newspaper headline read, “Hippie girl wins talentime with Dum Maro Dum”.\nIt was a small moment, but telling. The song had crossed not just borders, but communities.\nIt resonated across Malaysia’s multiracial landscape, carried not as protest, but as performance.\nIt became, in its own understated way, part of the cultural fabric.\nThe years moved on, but the song refused to fade globally. It played in clubs and weddings, on radio and later on digital playlists.\nIts opening riff remained instantly recognisable, its rhythm impossible to ignore.\nArtistes revisited it and producers sampled it. Even global platforms would echo its sound decades later.\nEach time, it returned not as nostalgia, but as something still alive.\nPart of that endurance lies in Bhosle herself. Where the song could have been novelty, she gave it character.\nThere was mischief in her voice, but also control. A sense that she understood exactly how far to push.\nShe did not just sing it. She claimed it.\nToday, as the world remembers Bhosle, Dum Maro Dum stands as more than a hit from a distant era.\nIt is proof that some songs arrive before people are ready for them, and stay because they speak to something deeper.\nIn India, it became a defiant anthem. In Malaysia, it became something quieter, but no less lasting: a reflection of a society learning, in its own careful way, how to look at the world beyond its boundaries.\nIt was never meant to survive. But then, the songs that matter rarely ask for permission.","date_published":"2026-04-16T23:30:19.000Z","author":{"name":"Frankie D'Cruz"},"tags":["Highlight","Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","1970s Culture","Anand Bakshi","Asha Bhosle","Bollywood Music","Dev Anand","Dum Maro Dum","Hare Rama Hare Krishna","Malaysia Cultural History","Music Legacy","RD Burman","Youth Culture","Zeenat Aman"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/392be63c-zeenat-aman-classic-films-pic-15426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/392be63c-zeenat-aman-classic-films-pic-15426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/achik-spins-music-continues-to-touch-hearts-16-years-on","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/achik-spins-music-continues-to-touch-hearts-16-years-on","title":"Achik Spin’s music continues to touch hearts 16 years on","summary":"A decade and a half after his passing, the 'Mengusung Rindu' singer’s legacy lives on through family and a new generation of listeners.","content_html":"![\"achik](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2413fafd-lifestyle-achik-emel-pic-160426.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: In 2010, the local music scene was dealt a devastating blow when one of its brightest rising stars, Achik Spin, lost his life in a road accident.
\nThe charismatic young singer, best known as the frontman of the band Spin, had captivated audiences with his emotive vocals and a string of hit songs that defined an era of Malaysian music.
\nSixteen years later, his songs remain widely popular, and his memory lives on in the hearts of fans and those who knew him best.
\n“His songs were evergreen and he was loved by many. I’ve heard from many fans that they always sing his songs at karaoke, especially when they are sad or in love,” Muhammad Khalis Shari, Achik’s younger brother, told FMT Lifestyle.
\n\n“That was one of the strongest things about his music. Even today, people still sing his songs.”
\nBorn Abdillah Murad Shari in Negeri Sembilan in 1982, Achik discovered his passion for music at a young age. He began performing at local weddings, earning about RM30 per show, before moving on to singing competitions.
\n![\"KHALIS_ACHIK_SPIN\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/d7614c48-7_khalis_moganraj_fmt_11042026-copy-9.webp\")
Khalis remembers Achik as being determined to make it in the music industry even as a child. He once dreamed of starting a music company that would carry not just his own ambitions but those of his siblings as well.
\nDespite his growing career, Khalis, 38, said his brother remained devoted to family. Even when he had just a single day off, he would spend it with his siblings.
\n“He was a loving big brother who was very happy-go-lucky but also firm. Whenever he made a decision, he would always stick to it.”
\nAchik formed Spin in 1999, and the band released four albums: “Roda Roda Rindu” (1999), “Spin 2: Litar Asmara” (2000), “Spin 3: Demi” (2002) and “Keranamu” (2003). Among their best-known songs are “Mengusung Rindu”, “Hadirlah Mustika” and “Dekat Disayang Jauh Dikenang”.
\nHe also gained widespread popularity through his duets with fellow Negeri Sembilan singer Siti Nordiana. Performing as Achik & Nana, the pair produced two albums, with one of their biggest hits, “Paling Comel”, released in 2003.
\nBeyond his music, Achik ventured into acting, taking on the lead role in the telefilm “Diari Romeo” (2003), which earned him the Pelakon Lelaki Harapan award at the 17th Malaysia Film Festival.
\n![\"nana](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/fd4b07b6-lifestyle-nana-emel-pic-160426.webp\")
Tragically, Achik’s life was cut short at age 27 on April 17, 2010, when he was involved in an accident along the Lekas Highway at around 6.15pm.
\nMedia reports said Achik was killed when the MPV driven by a friend crashed into a signpost, caught fire and exploded. He was laid to rest at Makam Tuan Haji Said Muslim cemetery in Seremban, leaving behind his wife and two daughters.
\nAccording to Bernama, over 100 people paid their last respects, including singers Hattan, Tomok and Lan Yusof.
\nKhalis shared that his brother’s passing “felt like a test at times”, adding: “It was hard to continue, knowing he was no longer with us. I don’t think any of us would have gone into music if not for him being gone.
\n“But we were motivated to continue his legacy.”
\nIndeed, in the years since, four of Achik’s nine siblings have taken up music, including his brother Tajul and sister Beby Acha.
\n![\"roda](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/3f8825ea-lifestyle-roda-emel-pic-160426.webp\")
Two bands have been formed: one, also called Spin, features new members alongside Achik’s younger brother Arwis Shari (Awis) as lead vocalist.
\nThe second band, Real Spin, brings together original members Aidel Ahmad and Azren Kamil, along with Khalis.
\nHaving two bands with similar names might seem complicated, but Khalis reassures fans there is no rivalry between them – their music complements rather than competes.
\nKhalis also continues to honour his brother through his performances. When invited to sing at events, for instance, he often includes at least two of Achik’s songs – a solo and a duet.
\nAsked for his message to fans, Khalis said he hopes they will continue to keep Achik in their prayers and honour his memory through his music.
\n“It’s always nice when I see members of the new generation discovering and appreciating his songs,” he said. “Mention some of his biggest hits and people instantly remember Achik. We can never forget him.”
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: In 2010, the local music scene was dealt a devastating blow when one of its brightest rising stars, Achik Spin, lost his life in a road accident.\nThe charismatic young singer, best known as the frontman of the band Spin, had captivated audiences with his emotive vocals and a string of hit songs that defined an era of Malaysian music.\nSixteen years later, his songs remain widely popular, and his memory lives on in the hearts of fans and those who knew him best.\n“His songs were evergreen and he was loved by many. I've heard from many fans that they always sing his songs at karaoke, especially when they are sad or in love,” Muhammad Khalis Shari, Achik’s younger brother, told FMT Lifestyle.\n\n“That was one of the strongest things about his music. Even today, people still sing his songs.”\nBorn Abdillah Murad Shari in Negeri Sembilan in 1982, Achik discovered his passion for music at a young age. He began performing at local weddings, earning about RM30 per show, before moving on to singing competitions.\n\nKhalis remembers Achik as being determined to make it in the music industry even as a child. He once dreamed of starting a music company that would carry not just his own ambitions but those of his siblings as well.\nDespite his growing career, Khalis, 38, said his brother remained devoted to family. Even when he had just a single day off, he would spend it with his siblings.\n“He was a loving big brother who was very happy-go-lucky but also firm. Whenever he made a decision, he would always stick to it.\"\nAchik formed Spin in 1999, and the band released four albums: “Roda Roda Rindu” (1999), “Spin 2: Litar Asmara” (2000), “Spin 3: Demi” (2002) and “Keranamu” (2003). Among their best-known songs are “Mengusung Rindu”, “Hadirlah Mustika” and “Dekat Disayang Jauh Dikenang”.\nHe also gained widespread popularity through his duets with fellow Negeri Sembilan singer Siti Nordiana. Performing as Achik & Nana, the pair produced two albums, with one of their biggest hits, “Paling Comel”, released in 2003.\nBeyond his music, Achik ventured into acting, taking on the lead role in the telefilm “Diari Romeo” (2003), which earned him the Pelakon Lelaki Harapan award at the 17th Malaysia Film Festival.\n\nTragically, Achik's life was cut short at age 27 on April 17, 2010, when he was involved in an accident along the Lekas Highway at around 6.15pm.\nMedia reports said Achik was killed when the MPV driven by a friend crashed into a signpost, caught fire and exploded. He was laid to rest at Makam Tuan Haji Said Muslim cemetery in Seremban, leaving behind his wife and two daughters.\nAccording to Bernama, over 100 people paid their last respects, including singers Hattan, Tomok and Lan Yusof.\nKhalis shared that his brother's passing \"felt like a test at times\", adding: \"It was hard to continue, knowing he was no longer with us. I don’t think any of us would have gone into music if not for him being gone.\n\"But we were motivated to continue his legacy.”\nIndeed, in the years since, four of Achik's nine siblings have taken up music, including his brother Tajul and sister Beby Acha.\n\nTwo bands have been formed: one, also called Spin, features new members alongside Achik’s younger brother Arwis Shari (Awis) as lead vocalist.\nThe second band, Real Spin, brings together original members Aidel Ahmad and Azren Kamil, along with Khalis.\nHaving two bands with similar names might seem complicated, but Khalis reassures fans there is no rivalry between them - their music complements rather than competes.\nKhalis also continues to honour his brother through his performances. When invited to sing at events, for instance, he often includes at least two of Achik's songs - a solo and a duet.\nAsked for his message to fans, Khalis said he hopes they will continue to keep Achik in their prayers and honour his memory through his music.\n“It’s always nice when I see members of the new generation discovering and appreciating his songs,\" he said. \"Mention some of his biggest hits and people instantly remember Achik. We can never forget him.\"","date_published":"2026-04-16T23:00:02.000Z","author":{"name":"Terence Toh @ FMT Lifestyle"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","Achik Spin","in memoriam","Malaysian music","singers","spin","The Real Spin"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2413fafd-lifestyle-achik-emel-pic-160426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2413fafd-lifestyle-achik-emel-pic-160426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/cruise-control-top-gun-3-officially-in-the-works","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/cruise-control-top-gun-3-officially-in-the-works","title":"Cruise control: ‘Top Gun 3’ officially in the works","summary":"Tom Cruise will return as daring pilot Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell, reuniting with producer Jerry Bruckheimer on the project.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/30ce996e-tom-cruise-17042026.webp\")
LAS VEGAS: If you still feel the need for speed, Paramount Pictures has good news for you – “Top Gun 3” is officially happening, with Tom Cruise back as daring pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell.
\nThe announcement came Thursday at the studio’s showcase at CinemaCon, an annual week-long summit at which Hollywood studios present their biggest upcoming movies to theatre owners and press.
\nParamount film co-head Josh Greenstein said “Top Gun 3” was “officially in development with a script well underway”, adding that Cruise would reunite with producer Jerry Bruckheimer on the project.
\nThe original 1986 film helped propel Cruise to superstardom, and the 2022 sequel earned US$1.5 billion worldwide.
\nLegendary director Steven Spielberg publicly credited Cruise with helping to get moviegoers back into theatres after the Covid-19 pandemic with the long-awaited sequel.
\nCruise was not present at the presentation but did narrate a film used to open the event, which focused on the studio’s commitment to releasing films on the big screen.
\nAt the end, Cruise – sitting atop the water tower on the studio’s lot – says, “The future looks great from here.”
\nParamount Skydance chief David Ellison told attendees that the studio would guarantee a 45-day theatrical release window for its films before moving them to streaming platforms.
\n“Once we combine with Warner Brothers, we’re going to make a minimum of 30 films annually,” Ellison said in a pledge to theatre owners. “Long live the movies.”
\nParamount has launched a massive US$111 billion bid to take over Warner Bros, topping a rival bid from Netflix.
\nBut many in Hollywood fear the mega-merger will lead to cuts that will forever change the film industry.
\nAlso on Paramount’s upcoming slate is a film adaptation of the popular video game “Call of Duty”, due in theatres in June 2028.
\nAttendees also saw early footage from “Heart of the Beast”, a thriller starring Brad Pitt as a military veteran who must survive a plane crash in Alaska with his combat dog.
\nAnd Johnny Depp showed up to offer a preview of “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol”, the latest adaptation of the classic Charles Dickens tale, in which he plays the grumpy Scrooge.
\nCinemaCon continues later Thursday with Disney’s presentation.
\n","content_text":"LAS VEGAS: If you still feel the need for speed, Paramount Pictures has good news for you – \"Top Gun 3\" is officially happening, with Tom Cruise back as daring pilot Pete \"Maverick\" Mitchell.\nThe announcement came Thursday at the studio's showcase at CinemaCon, an annual week-long summit at which Hollywood studios present their biggest upcoming movies to theatre owners and press.\nParamount film co-head Josh Greenstein said \"Top Gun 3\" was \"officially in development with a script well underway\", adding that Cruise would reunite with producer Jerry Bruckheimer on the project.\nThe original 1986 film helped propel Cruise to superstardom, and the 2022 sequel earned US$1.5 billion worldwide.\nLegendary director Steven Spielberg publicly credited Cruise with helping to get moviegoers back into theatres after the Covid-19 pandemic with the long-awaited sequel.\nCruise was not present at the presentation but did narrate a film used to open the event, which focused on the studio's commitment to releasing films on the big screen.\nAt the end, Cruise – sitting atop the water tower on the studio's lot – says, \"The future looks great from here.\"\nParamount Skydance chief David Ellison told attendees that the studio would guarantee a 45-day theatrical release window for its films before moving them to streaming platforms.\n\"Once we combine with Warner Brothers, we're going to make a minimum of 30 films annually,\" Ellison said in a pledge to theatre owners. \"Long live the movies.\"\nParamount has launched a massive US$111 billion bid to take over Warner Bros, topping a rival bid from Netflix.\nBut many in Hollywood fear the mega-merger will lead to cuts that will forever change the film industry.\nAlso on Paramount's upcoming slate is a film adaptation of the popular video game \"Call of Duty\", due in theatres in June 2028.\nAttendees also saw early footage from \"Heart of the Beast\", a thriller starring Brad Pitt as a military veteran who must survive a plane crash in Alaska with his combat dog.\nAnd Johnny Depp showed up to offer a preview of \"Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol\", the latest adaptation of the classic Charles Dickens tale, in which he plays the grumpy Scrooge.\nCinemaCon continues later Thursday with Disney's presentation.","date_published":"2026-04-16T22:55:04.000Z","author":{"name":"AFP"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","blockbuster cinema","CinemaCon announcement","FILM INDUSTRY","Hollywood movies","Jerry Bruckheimer","Maverick sequel","Paramount Pictures","theatrical release","Tom Cruise","Top Gun 3"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/30ce996e-tom-cruise-17042026.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/30ce996e-tom-cruise-17042026.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/victoria-beckham-defends-parenting-amid-rift-with-son-brooklyn","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/17/victoria-beckham-defends-parenting-amid-rift-with-son-brooklyn","title":"Victoria Beckham defends parenting amid rift with son Brooklyn","summary":"Brooklyn Beckham has ruled out reconciling with his family, alleging attempts to 'ruin' his marriage to American actress Nicola Peltz.","content_html":"![\"Victoria](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/8ffd1ed1-victoria-beckham.jpg\")
NEW YORK: Victoria Beckham said Thursday she and her husband David have always sought to “protect” their children, months after eldest son Brooklyn attacked his famous parents in an explosive social media rant.
\nIn the January post, 27-year-old Brooklyn alleged his parents tried to “ruin” his relationship with his wife Nicola Peltz Beckham and said he had no wish to reconcile with his family.
\nHe said his parents, seeking to protect the “Brand Beckham,” tried to “bribe me into signing away the rights to my name” before he married the American actress in 2022.
\nVictoria Beckham, a Spice Girls pop star turned fashion designer, told the Wall Street Journal that she and ex-England footballer David have “always tried to be the best parents that we can be.”
\n“We’ve been in the public eye for more than 30 years right now, and all we’ve ever tried to do is protect our children and love our children,” she said.
\n“Being a parent of young adult children and adult children, gosh, I mean, it’s very different from having little children. I think that we’re trying to do the best we can.”
\nBrooklyn’s surprise criticism of his parents made front-page news in UK tabloids.
\n“Since the moment I started standing up for myself with my family, I’ve received endless attacks from my parents, both privately and publicly, that were sent to the press on their orders,” he said.
\nInternational football phenom David Beckham has not directly answered questions about the tensions, but when asked by US broadcaster CNBC about children using social media, he said parents should let children “make mistakes.”
\n","content_text":"NEW YORK: Victoria Beckham said Thursday she and her husband David have always sought to \"protect\" their children, months after eldest son Brooklyn attacked his famous parents in an explosive social media rant.\nIn the January post, 27-year-old Brooklyn alleged his parents tried to \"ruin\" his relationship with his wife Nicola Peltz Beckham and said he had no wish to reconcile with his family.\nHe said his parents, seeking to protect the \"Brand Beckham,\" tried to \"bribe me into signing away the rights to my name\" before he married the American actress in 2022.\nVictoria Beckham, a Spice Girls pop star turned fashion designer, told the Wall Street Journal that she and ex-England footballer David have \"always tried to be the best parents that we can be.\"\n\"We've been in the public eye for more than 30 years right now, and all we've ever tried to do is protect our children and love our children,\" she said.\n\"Being a parent of young adult children and adult children, gosh, I mean, it's very different from having little children. I think that we're trying to do the best we can.\"\nBrooklyn's surprise criticism of his parents made front-page news in UK tabloids.\n\"Since the moment I started standing up for myself with my family, I've received endless attacks from my parents, both privately and publicly, that were sent to the press on their orders,\" he said.\nInternational football phenom David Beckham has not directly answered questions about the tensions, but when asked by US broadcaster CNBC about children using social media, he said parents should let children \"make mistakes.\"","date_published":"2026-04-16T22:31:21.000Z","author":{"name":"AFP"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","Brooklyn","David Beckham","parenting","Victoria Beckham"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/8ffd1ed1-victoria-beckham.jpg","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/8ffd1ed1-victoria-beckham.jpg"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/16/siti-nurhaliza-involved-in-accident-at-mex-highway","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/16/siti-nurhaliza-involved-in-accident-at-mex-highway","title":"Siti Nurhaliza involved in accident on MEX highway","summary":"It is understood that the multi-vehicle collision occurred while the singer was on her way home after performing at an event in Sepang.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/6e38a213-siti-nurhaliza-bernama-pic-160426.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: National songstress Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin was involved in an accident along the Maju Expressway (MEX) today.
\nIn an Instagram story, Siti said she was safe but did not provide any details about the accident.
\nHer manager, Rozi Abdul Razak, said Siti’s leg was swollen and she was taken to a hospital.
\n“Alhamdulillah, everything is fine. Thank you for everyone’s prayers,” Rozi said in an Instagram story.
\nHe added that four vehicles had been involved in the accident, including the one ferrying him and Siti.
\nSeveral netizens shared details of the incident on social media, including photos believed to be of the vehicles involved.
\nIt is understood that the collision occurred while the singer was on her way home after performing at an event in Sepang.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: National songstress Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin was involved in an accident along the Maju Expressway (MEX) today.\nIn an Instagram story, Siti said she was safe but did not provide any details about the accident.\nHer manager, Rozi Abdul Razak, said Siti’s leg was swollen and she was taken to a hospital.\n“Alhamdulillah, everything is fine. Thank you for everyone's prayers,” Rozi said in an Instagram story.\nHe added that four vehicles had been involved in the accident, including the one ferrying him and Siti.\nSeveral netizens shared details of the incident on social media, including photos believed to be of the vehicles involved.\nIt is understood that the collision occurred while the singer was on her way home after performing at an event in Sepang.","date_published":"2026-04-16T11:09:05.000Z","author":{"name":"Bernama"},"tags":["Highlight","Top News","Malaysia","Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","accident","injured","MEX","safe","Siti Nurhaliza"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/6e38a213-siti-nurhaliza-bernama-pic-160426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/6e38a213-siti-nurhaliza-bernama-pic-160426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/business/2026/04/16/chinese-automaker-patents-voice-activated-in-car-toilet","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/business/2026/04/16/chinese-automaker-patents-voice-activated-in-car-toilet","title":"Chinese automaker patents voice-activated in-car toilet","summary":"The amenity is intended to 'satisfy users toilet needs on long journeys, while camping or while living in the car', Seres engineers wrote in the patent filing.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/12198344-Seres.webp\")
SHANGHAI: A Chinese automaker has patented a toilet concealed beneath a sliding car seat that can be operated using voice commands, according to a government database.
\nElectric vehicle company Seres received patent approval for its mobile latrine earlier this month, public records show.
\nThe on-the-go lavatory can be accessed manually through pushing the seat back, as well as through the voice command “start up toilet function”.
\nThe amenity is intended to “satisfy users’ toilet needs on long journeys, while camping or while living in the car”, Seres engineers wrote in the patent filing.
\nA fan mechanism and an exhaust pipe funnel odours out of the car, while waste is collected in a tank that must be emptied periodically.
\nThe toilet also features a rotating heating element that evaporates urine and dries other waste.
\nThe sliding seat design “optimises the utility of the car’s interior”, Seres said in the filing.
\nChina’s electric vehicle companies have unveiled models decked out with increasingly outlandish accessories in recent years in a bid to impress buyers in an oversaturated market.
\nFeatures like karaoke systems and mini-fridges have become common, and automaker Nio boasts a built-in “hot stone massage” in its car seats.
\nIndustry champion BYD last year announced an intelligent vehicle-mounted drone system it said would be available across all models, while XPeng has said deliveries of its “Land Aircraft Carrier” — a car that contains its own six-propeller flying vehicle — should start this year.
\nSeres has yet to announce any toilet-equipped vehicles, and it is unclear if any will be produced.
\nThe company, which partnered with telecommunications giant Huawei to develop its premium AITO line, did not immediately respond to AFP’s request for comment.
\n","content_text":"SHANGHAI: A Chinese automaker has patented a toilet concealed beneath a sliding car seat that can be operated using voice commands, according to a government database.\nElectric vehicle company Seres received patent approval for its mobile latrine earlier this month, public records show.\nThe on-the-go lavatory can be accessed manually through pushing the seat back, as well as through the voice command \"start up toilet function\".\nThe amenity is intended to \"satisfy users' toilet needs on long journeys, while camping or while living in the car\", Seres engineers wrote in the patent filing.\nA fan mechanism and an exhaust pipe funnel odours out of the car, while waste is collected in a tank that must be emptied periodically.\nThe toilet also features a rotating heating element that evaporates urine and dries other waste.\nThe sliding seat design \"optimises the utility of the car's interior\", Seres said in the filing.\nChina's electric vehicle companies have unveiled models decked out with increasingly outlandish accessories in recent years in a bid to impress buyers in an oversaturated market.\nFeatures like karaoke systems and mini-fridges have become common, and automaker Nio boasts a built-in \"hot stone massage\" in its car seats.\nIndustry champion BYD last year announced an intelligent vehicle-mounted drone system it said would be available across all models, while XPeng has said deliveries of its \"Land Aircraft Carrier\" - a car that contains its own six-propeller flying vehicle - should start this year.\nSeres has yet to announce any toilet-equipped vehicles, and it is unclear if any will be produced.\nThe company, which partnered with telecommunications giant Huawei to develop its premium AITO line, did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment.","date_published":"2026-04-16T08:44:17.000Z","author":{"name":"AFP"},"tags":["Automotive","Business","World Business","Top Business","automaker","car","China","Seres","toilet"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/12198344-Seres.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/12198344-Seres.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/16/spielberg-teases-new-alien-film-disclosure-day-as-more-truth-than-fiction","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/16/spielberg-teases-new-alien-film-disclosure-day-as-more-truth-than-fiction","title":"Spielberg teases new alien film ‘Disclosure Day’ as ‘more truth than fiction’","summary":"Set to be released in June, the movie is inspired by a 2017 New York Times report on UFO sightings by US pilots.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Steven-Spielberg-lifestyle-emel-pic-221122-1.jpg\")
LAS VEGAS: Steven Spielberg described his 1977 UFO film “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” as his own “speculation” about intelligent life on other planets.
\nHis new alien movie, “Disclosure Day,” will offer what Spielberg believes is “more truth than fiction,” the veteran filmmaker told theater operators on Wednesday at the CinemaCon convention in Las Vegas.
\nThe maker of “E.T.” and 2005’s “War of the Worlds” said he decided to journey back into the extraterrestrial realm after reading a 2017 New York Times report about US military pilots who reported seeing mysterious flying objects.
\n“I really, truly believe this movie is going to answer questions,” Spielberg said of “Disclosure Day.” “And this movie is also going to cause you to ask a lot of questions.”
\n“All you need to get from the beginning to the end is a seat belt,” he teased, without elaborating on the plot.
\nFootage shown to the CinemaCon crowd gave a brief glimpse of an alien leaning over a human child. The film stars Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor, Colman Domingo and Colin Firth.
\n“Disclosure Day” will be released by Universal Pictures in June.
\nUniversal also brought out another acclaimed director, Christopher Nolan, to promote his upcoming film “The Odyssey.” The movie, set to debut in July, is based on Homer’s epic about a Greek king trying to return home after the Trojan War.
\n“The Odyssey is a story that has fascinated generation after generation for 3,000 years,” he said. “It is not a story. It’s the story.”
\nThe “Oppenheimer” director said “The Odyssey” was “an absolute nightmare to film, but in all the right ways.”
\nStar Matt Damon, who plays Odysseus, endured rough conditions throughout the project, Nolan said.
\n“He was just there, out there on the boats, up in the mountains, in the caves, in beating sunshine, in sideways rain, wind,” he said.
\n“It’s meant to be difficult. That’s the nature of the story.”
\n","content_text":"LAS VEGAS: Steven Spielberg described his 1977 UFO film \"Close Encounters of the Third Kind\" as his own \"speculation\" about intelligent life on other planets.\nHis new alien movie, \"Disclosure Day,\" will offer what Spielberg believes is \"more truth than fiction,\" the veteran filmmaker told theater operators on Wednesday at the CinemaCon convention in Las Vegas.\nThe maker of \"E.T.\" and 2005's \"War of the Worlds\" said he decided to journey back into the extraterrestrial realm after reading a 2017 New York Times report about US military pilots who reported seeing mysterious flying objects.\n\"I really, truly believe this movie is going to answer questions,\" Spielberg said of \"Disclosure Day.\" \"And this movie is also going to cause you to ask a lot of questions.\"\n\"All you need to get from the beginning to the end is a seat belt,\" he teased, without elaborating on the plot.\nFootage shown to the CinemaCon crowd gave a brief glimpse of an alien leaning over a human child. The film stars Emily Blunt, Josh O'Connor, Colman Domingo and Colin Firth.\n\"Disclosure Day\" will be released by Universal Pictures in June.\nUniversal also brought out another acclaimed director, Christopher Nolan, to promote his upcoming film \"The Odyssey.\" The movie, set to debut in July, is based on Homer's epic about a Greek king trying to return home after the Trojan War.\n\"The Odyssey is a story that has fascinated generation after generation for 3,000 years,\" he said. \"It is not a story. It's the story.\"\nThe \"Oppenheimer\" director said \"The Odyssey\" was \"an absolute nightmare to film, but in all the right ways.\"\nStar Matt Damon, who plays Odysseus, endured rough conditions throughout the project, Nolan said.\n\"He was just there, out there on the boats, up in the mountains, in the caves, in beating sunshine, in sideways rain, wind,\" he said.\n\"It's meant to be difficult. That's the nature of the story.\"","date_published":"2026-04-16T05:15:24.000Z","author":{"name":"Reuters"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","'Disclosure Day'","fiction","June","Nolan","Odessy","Spielberg","truth"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Steven-Spielberg-lifestyle-emel-pic-221122-1.jpg","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Steven-Spielberg-lifestyle-emel-pic-221122-1.jpg"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/16/malaysian-doctor-leads-breakthrough-pancreatic-cancer-trial","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/04/16/malaysian-doctor-leads-breakthrough-pancreatic-cancer-trial","title":"Malaysian doctor leads breakthrough pancreatic cancer trial","summary":"An experimental drug doubled the one-year survival rate for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, offering fresh hope against one of the deadliest cancers.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f82f9bed-dr-m-devalingam-ss-youtube-160426.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian doctor has led a breakthrough clinical trial in Chicago, where an experimental drug doubled the one-year survival rate for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, offering fresh hope against one of the deadliest cancers.
\nDr M Devalingam, who heads the study at Northwestern University, said the treatment significantly improved outcomes among patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, when most survive less than a year after diagnosis.
\nThe phase two clinical trial found that patients treated with elraglusib and standard chemotherapy were twice as likely to live after one year compared with those receiving chemotherapy alone. The treatment also reduced the risk of death by 38%.
\nThe findings, published in the journal Nature Medicine, mark one of the few significant advances in recent years to demonstrate a meaningful survival benefit for a broad group of pancreatic cancer patients.
\n\n“Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging solid tumours to treat, but these findings provide cautious optimism,” Devalingam said.
\nDevalingam and his team are now pursuing a phase-three trial to validate the findings, raising hopes that the treatment could eventually benefit patients globally.
\nThe trial involved 233 patients across 60 sites in North America and Europe, focussing on those with metastatic pancreatic cancer. Patients receiving elraglusib recorded a median survival of 10.1 months, compared to 7.2 months for those on chemotherapy alone.
\nNotably, 44% of patients in the treatment group were alive after one year, compared with 22% in the control group, while about 13% survived up to two years – a milestone not observed among those receiving chemotherapy alone.
\nResearchers said the drug works differently from conventional treatments by targeting the tumour microenvironment and reactivating the body’s immune response against cancer cells.
\nWhile side effects such as fatigue and low white blood cell counts were reported, the study found the drug’s safety profile to be manageable.
\nPancreatic cancer is currently the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US and remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian doctor has led a breakthrough clinical trial in Chicago, where an experimental drug doubled the one-year survival rate for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, offering fresh hope against one of the deadliest cancers.\nDr M Devalingam, who heads the study at Northwestern University, said the treatment significantly improved outcomes among patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, when most survive less than a year after diagnosis.\nThe phase two clinical trial found that patients treated with elraglusib and standard chemotherapy were twice as likely to live after one year compared with those receiving chemotherapy alone. The treatment also reduced the risk of death by 38%.\nThe findings, published in the journal Nature Medicine, mark one of the few significant advances in recent years to demonstrate a meaningful survival benefit for a broad group of pancreatic cancer patients.\n\n\"Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging solid tumours to treat, but these findings provide cautious optimism,\" Devalingam said.\nDevalingam and his team are now pursuing a phase-three trial to validate the findings, raising hopes that the treatment could eventually benefit patients globally.\nThe trial involved 233 patients across 60 sites in North America and Europe, focussing on those with metastatic pancreatic cancer. Patients receiving elraglusib recorded a median survival of 10.1 months, compared to 7.2 months for those on chemotherapy alone.\nNotably, 44% of patients in the treatment group were alive after one year, compared with 22% in the control group, while about 13% survived up to two years – a milestone not observed among those receiving chemotherapy alone.\nResearchers said the drug works differently from conventional treatments by targeting the tumour microenvironment and reactivating the body’s immune response against cancer cells.\nWhile side effects such as fatigue and low white blood cell counts were reported, the study found the drug’s safety profile to be manageable.\nPancreatic cancer is currently the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US and remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat.","date_published":"2026-04-16T04:12:46.000Z","author":{"name":"Bernama"},"tags":["Highlight","Top News","Malaysia","Lifestyle","Health & Family","Simple Stories","Top Lifestyle","cancers","Chicago","clinical trial","Devalingam Mahalingam"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f82f9bed-dr-m-devalingam-ss-youtube-160426.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/f82f9bed-dr-m-devalingam-ss-youtube-160426.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/16/maharaja-in-denims-stakes-claim-in-ai-film-race","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/16/maharaja-in-denims-stakes-claim-in-ai-film-race","title":"‘Maharaja in Denims’ stakes claim in AI film race","summary":"A striking blend of human creativity and machine intelligence, it a testament to how AI is disrupting and democratising cinema.","content_html":"![\"\"](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/e1144254-maharaja-in-denim-afp-16_04_26.webp\")
MUMBAI: Many filmmakers fear the existential threat of artificial intelligence, but in India the race is on to produce the first hit Bollywood feature generated by the technology.
\nOne contender is “Maharaja in Denims”, based on a popular 2014 novel by Khushwant Singh and set for cinematic release this summer.
\n“There is no actor fee, there is no fuss over them coming late or causing delays. There are no sets,” Singh told AFP.
\n“It is sheer creativity of mind and the machine,” said the author, who co-founded the startup Intelliflicks Studios with a former Microsoft executive to realise the project.
\nIndian studios, which churn out more than 2,000 movies a year, have embraced AI — unlike in Hollywood, where it has sparked huge strikes and strict union conditions around its use.
\nSeparate projects in the country, such as the mythological “Chiranjeevi Hanuman: The Eternal” and the Kannada‑language “Love You”, have also been marketed as pioneering AI productions.
\nAnother challenger, “Naisha”, had to postpone its May 2025 release date over unspecified technical issues, according to a social media post from its production studio.
\nLightspeed advances in AI image generation capabilities also kept delaying the final cut of “Maharaja in Denims”, the story of a privileged teenager who is a victim of the 1984 anti‑Sikh riots in Punjab.
\n“You are tempted to use the latest technology, so what was made before didn’t look as appealing,” Singh said.
\n“But then it also burns cash, because you are spending again for the software.”
\n‘Toughest’ path
\nIn 2024, Singh and Intelliflicks co-founder Gurdeep Singh Pall, once head of business AI and product incubations at Microsoft, hired a team of six people, including a director and cinematographer, to make “Maharaja in Denims”.
\nPall “wanted to experiment with my book”, explained Singh, who is based in the northern city of Chandigarh.
\nThe film’s protagonist believes he is the reincarnation of the 19th century Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh — and traditionally, the movie’s layered timelines and historical settings would demand a massive budget.
\nBut Singh said AI had slashed costs to roughly a tenth.
\nWhile the startup has “cracked” the process of AI filmmaking, mythological and science‑fiction films, where characters’ faces are less defined, are far easier to generate than realistic cinema, he argued.
\n“We chose the toughest… path of realism,” Singh said.
\nAI models were poorly trained for Indian faces and Sikh historical figures, forcing the team to repeatedly troubleshoot.
\nA Western movie would be “much easier to generate, because the models are trained for that”, he said.
\n“Had we known the challenges, we would have picked a different script.”
\nHuman music
\nChatGPT maker OpenAI has backed the production of a feature-length animation called “Critterz”, created largely with AI tools.
\nIt is aiming for a premiere at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in May ahead of a global release.
\nTo retain a human touch in “Maharaja in Denims”, the soundtrack will feature traditional music, with a title song by Indian singer Sukhwinder Singh.
\n“People in India watch music rather than just listen to it, so it’s best to have it,” Singh said.
\nInterest is already spreading beyond the film industry, and Singh says he has received emails from wealthy temple trusts keen to commission AI‑generated mythological films.
\nDespite the hurdles, Singh believes AI will disrupt — and democratise — cinema.
\n“The way technology is making progress, you will have an 18-year-old sitting somewhere in a village who would be challenging the big guys,” he said.
\n","content_text":"MUMBAI: Many filmmakers fear the existential threat of artificial intelligence, but in India the race is on to produce the first hit Bollywood feature generated by the technology.\nOne contender is \"Maharaja in Denims\", based on a popular 2014 novel by Khushwant Singh and set for cinematic release this summer.\n\"There is no actor fee, there is no fuss over them coming late or causing delays. There are no sets,\" Singh told AFP.\n\"It is sheer creativity of mind and the machine,\" said the author, who co-founded the startup Intelliflicks Studios with a former Microsoft executive to realise the project.\nIndian studios, which churn out more than 2,000 movies a year, have embraced AI - unlike in Hollywood, where it has sparked huge strikes and strict union conditions around its use.\nSeparate projects in the country, such as the mythological \"Chiranjeevi Hanuman: The Eternal\" and the Kannada‑language \"Love You\", have also been marketed as pioneering AI productions.\nAnother challenger, \"Naisha\", had to postpone its May 2025 release date over unspecified technical issues, according to a social media post from its production studio.\nLightspeed advances in AI image generation capabilities also kept delaying the final cut of \"Maharaja in Denims\", the story of a privileged teenager who is a victim of the 1984 anti‑Sikh riots in Punjab.\n\"You are tempted to use the latest technology, so what was made before didn't look as appealing,\" Singh said.\n\"But then it also burns cash, because you are spending again for the software.\"\n'Toughest' path\nIn 2024, Singh and Intelliflicks co-founder Gurdeep Singh Pall, once head of business AI and product incubations at Microsoft, hired a team of six people, including a director and cinematographer, to make \"Maharaja in Denims\".\nPall \"wanted to experiment with my book\", explained Singh, who is based in the northern city of Chandigarh.\nThe film's protagonist believes he is the reincarnation of the 19th century Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh - and traditionally, the movie's layered timelines and historical settings would demand a massive budget.\nBut Singh said AI had slashed costs to roughly a tenth.\nWhile the startup has \"cracked\" the process of AI filmmaking, mythological and science‑fiction films, where characters' faces are less defined, are far easier to generate than realistic cinema, he argued.\n\"We chose the toughest... path of realism,\" Singh said.\nAI models were poorly trained for Indian faces and Sikh historical figures, forcing the team to repeatedly troubleshoot.\nA Western movie would be \"much easier to generate, because the models are trained for that\", he said.\n\"Had we known the challenges, we would have picked a different script.\"\nHuman music \nChatGPT maker OpenAI has backed the production of a feature-length animation called \"Critterz\", created largely with AI tools.\nIt is aiming for a premiere at this year's Cannes Film Festival in May ahead of a global release.\nTo retain a human touch in \"Maharaja in Denims\", the soundtrack will feature traditional music, with a title song by Indian singer Sukhwinder Singh.\n\"People in India watch music rather than just listen to it, so it's best to have it,\" Singh said.\nInterest is already spreading beyond the film industry, and Singh says he has received emails from wealthy temple trusts keen to commission AI‑generated mythological films.\nDespite the hurdles, Singh believes AI will disrupt - and democratise - cinema.\n\"The way technology is making progress, you will have an 18-year-old sitting somewhere in a village who would be challenging the big guys,\" he said.","date_published":"2026-04-16T03:22:27.000Z","author":{"name":"AFP"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Entertainment","Top Lifestyle","AI","Bollywood","denims","India","maharaja"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/e1144254-maharaja-in-denim-afp-16_04_26.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/e1144254-maharaja-in-denim-afp-16_04_26.webp"},{"id":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/16/cekik-the-food-chapter-brings-kampung-soul-to-the-city","url":"https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/04/16/cekik-the-food-chapter-brings-kampung-soul-to-the-city","title":"‘Cekik the Food Chapter’ brings kampung soul to the city","summary":"Built on family recipes and culinary expertise, this 24-hour eatery aims to delight with banana leaf meals, roti canai and much more.","content_html":"![\"Cekik](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ace2ba02-food-review-at-cekik-restaurant-bukit-damansara-terence-fmt-30032026-07.webp\")
KUALA LUMPUR: If you’ve ever become all choked up at the thought of a homemade meal, then “Cekik The Food Chapter” might just be the place for you.
\nThis 24-hour eatery serves a charming combination of local and South Asian cuisine, offering everything from hearty banana rice sets to bold curries and crisp, freshly made roti canai.
\n\nDon’t choke on the unusual name: “cekik” means “eat” in the language of the Melaka Chitty, or Indian Peranakan community. It pays tribute to founder Predeep Singh Arjun Singh’s heritage.
\n“We grew up speaking Malay. My father was Melaka Chitty and always used ‘cekik’ instead of ‘makan’. I think it was his mother’s favourite word, passed on to him,” Predeep told FMT Lifestyle.
\n![\"Cekik](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ebe92f67-food-review-at-cekik-restaurant-bukit-damansara-terence-fmt-30032026-13.webp\")
“He’d even use it with his siblings. Every time he was in a good mood, we heard a lot of ‘mari pergi cekik’ (let’s go eat) or ‘dah cekik belum?’ (have you eaten already?) He’d also use it when he was angry!”
\nThe charismatic Predeep is an avid entrepreneur, having launched three previous ventures, which he calls “chapters”, across the region. The aptly named “Cekik The Food Chapter” marks his foray into the food industry.
\nPredeep believes everyone in his family, with the exception of himself, is a whiz in the kitchen. His parents even operated a food stall once in their hometown of Segamat, Johor. However, when the business proved unsustainable, they closed shop.
\nEager to learn from the past, Predeep researched the F&B industry, eventually determining that for a business to succeed, he needed someone he could trust in the kitchen. That person was closer to him than expected.
\n![\"Cekik](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/fa1f9f5b-food-review-at-cekik-restaurant-bukit-damansara-terence-fmt-30032026-04.webp\")
He persuaded his sister, Sharmila Kaur, to leave her engineering job to join him in the venture. He also brought on veteran chef Aizam Jasmani.
\nWith the team in place, Predeep and co-founder Ben Nair opened the restaurant in October last year.
\nSharmila’s family recipes, elevated by Aizam’s culinary expertise, have proven to be a winning combination.
\nPart of the restaurant’s appeal lies in its round-the-clock operating hours.
\n“Many people in the area here finish work late at night. Then they usually have to drive a bit of a distance, to Bangsar or Hartamas, if they want to get some food. So I realised there’s enough clientele here to operate on a 24-hour basis,” Predeep said.
\nDifferent meals are available at different times, with their popular banana leaf sets available from 11.30am to 7.30pm. Nasi lemak is ready from 7pm to 11.30am, while you can order their nasi goreng meals from 11.30am to 7am.
\n![\"Cekik](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/004c3174-food-review-at-cekik-restaurant-bukit-damansara-terence-fmt-30032026-15.webp\")
The restaurant strikes a balance between modern comfort and rustic charm, offering a contemporary dining space infused with kampung warmth. Its wide wall panels evoke the windows of traditional kampungs, while vintage antiques add layers of nostalgia.
\nPlant-based diners will also find plenty to love here. A vegan himself, Predeep’s menu features a wide range of plant-based alternatives to its signature dishes. He proclaims that this is the only place in Malaysia where you will find tempeh on a banana leaf spread!
\nIndeed, the banana leaf meals take centre stage here, offering a generous bounty of sides alongside six types of curries. Vegans can savour options like sothi, dhal sambar and vendhayam curry, while non-vegans can opt for fish, chicken and crab curry.
\n“Our banana leaf meals are a complete meal. We’ve got all kinds of vegetables that are sweet and sour, spicy and bitter, everything. I recommend eating it with the onion fried chicken, or the kam heong prawns,” Aizam said.
\n![\"Cekik](\"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/a327d7ca-food-review-at-cekik-restaurant-bukit-damansara-terence-fmt-30032026-08.webp\")
The bendi masala is the highlight, its okra thick and glistening within a delightfully spiced orange-red gravy packed with flavour. The prawn butter masala is creamy and indulgent, while the spicy chilli chicken is satisfyingly tender and packed with flavour.
\nFor early birds, Aizam recommends the roti canai, which is freshly made from scratch and taken to another level with its irresistible crispiness.
\nCekik The Food Chapter
\n9G, Jalan Medan Setia 1
\nBukit Damansara
\n50490 Kuala Lumpur
Open 24 hours daily
\nFollow ‘Cekik The Food Chapter’ on Instagram.
\n","content_text":"KUALA LUMPUR: If you’ve ever become all choked up at the thought of a homemade meal, then “Cekik The Food Chapter” might just be the place for you.\nThis 24-hour eatery serves a charming combination of local and South Asian cuisine, offering everything from hearty banana rice sets to bold curries and crisp, freshly made roti canai.\n\nDon’t choke on the unusual name: “cekik” means “eat” in the language of the Melaka Chitty, or Indian Peranakan community. It pays tribute to founder Predeep Singh Arjun Singh’s heritage.\n“We grew up speaking Malay. My father was Melaka Chitty and always used ‘cekik’ instead of ‘makan’. I think it was his mother’s favourite word, passed on to him,” Predeep told FMT Lifestyle.\n\n“He’d even use it with his siblings. Every time he was in a good mood, we heard a lot of ‘mari pergi cekik’ (let’s go eat) or ‘dah cekik belum?’ (have you eaten already?) He’d also use it when he was angry!”\nThe charismatic Predeep is an avid entrepreneur, having launched three previous ventures, which he calls “chapters”, across the region. The aptly named “Cekik The Food Chapter” marks his foray into the food industry.\nPredeep believes everyone in his family, with the exception of himself, is a whiz in the kitchen. His parents even operated a food stall once in their hometown of Segamat, Johor. However, when the business proved unsustainable, they closed shop.\nEager to learn from the past, Predeep researched the F&B industry, eventually determining that for a business to succeed, he needed someone he could trust in the kitchen. That person was closer to him than expected.\n\nHe persuaded his sister, Sharmila Kaur, to leave her engineering job to join him in the venture. He also brought on veteran chef Aizam Jasmani.\nWith the team in place, Predeep and co-founder Ben Nair opened the restaurant in October last year.\nSharmila’s family recipes, elevated by Aizam’s culinary expertise, have proven to be a winning combination.\nPart of the restaurant’s appeal lies in its round-the-clock operating hours.\n“Many people in the area here finish work late at night. Then they usually have to drive a bit of a distance, to Bangsar or Hartamas, if they want to get some food. So I realised there’s enough clientele here to operate on a 24-hour basis,” Predeep said.\nDifferent meals are available at different times, with their popular banana leaf sets available from 11.30am to 7.30pm. Nasi lemak is ready from 7pm to 11.30am, while you can order their nasi goreng meals from 11.30am to 7am.\n\nThe restaurant strikes a balance between modern comfort and rustic charm, offering a contemporary dining space infused with kampung warmth. Its wide wall panels evoke the windows of traditional kampungs, while vintage antiques add layers of nostalgia.\nPlant-based diners will also find plenty to love here. A vegan himself, Predeep's menu features a wide range of plant-based alternatives to its signature dishes. He proclaims that this is the only place in Malaysia where you will find tempeh on a banana leaf spread!\nIndeed, the banana leaf meals take centre stage here, offering a generous bounty of sides alongside six types of curries. Vegans can savour options like sothi, dhal sambar and vendhayam curry, while non-vegans can opt for fish, chicken and crab curry.\n“Our banana leaf meals are a complete meal. We’ve got all kinds of vegetables that are sweet and sour, spicy and bitter, everything. I recommend eating it with the onion fried chicken, or the kam heong prawns,” Aizam said.\n\nThe bendi masala is the highlight, its okra thick and glistening within a delightfully spiced orange-red gravy packed with flavour. The prawn butter masala is creamy and indulgent, while the spicy chilli chicken is satisfyingly tender and packed with flavour.\nFor early birds, Aizam recommends the roti canai, which is freshly made from scratch and taken to another level with its irresistible crispiness.\nCekik The Food Chapter\n9G, Jalan Medan Setia 1\nBukit Damansara\n50490 Kuala Lumpur\nOpen 24 hours daily\nFollow 'Cekik The Food Chapter' on Instagram.","date_published":"2026-04-16T01:00:24.000Z","author":{"name":"Terence Toh @ FMT Lifestyle"},"tags":["Lifestyle","Food","Top Lifestyle","banana leaf rice","Bukit damansara","Cekik the Food Chapter","Melaka Chitty","Mohd Aizam Jasmani","Predeep Singh Arjun Singh","Sharmila Kaur"],"image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ace2ba02-food-review-at-cekik-restaurant-bukit-damansara-terence-fmt-30032026-07.webp","banner_image":"https://media.freemalaysiatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ace2ba02-food-review-at-cekik-restaurant-bukit-damansara-terence-fmt-30032026-07.webp"}]}