9 'Atas' Glamping Sites In Malaysia For Less Than RM250 Per Person

If you've always wanted to camp without forsaking the comforts of having electricity or a toilet, then perhaps glamorous camping or 'glamping' is for you

Image via Canopy Tribe

We understand not everyone jumps at the idea of pitching a tent or dealing with mosquito bites.
So, we've compiled a list of nine glamping sites that you and your family or friends can stay at:

1. The Sticks

Image via The Sticks

Image via The Sticks

Image via The Sticks

Surround yourself with the sights and sounds of the jungle and live in 'tendoks' (half tent half pondok). The Sticks is an off-the-grid escapade perfect for resting weary minds.Some of the tendoks are super private and are located right by a creek for you to dip your feet in and relax. To add to the coziness, home-cooked food is also provided! Address: Lot 213 Jalan KKB, Fraser's Hill, 44000 Kuala Kubu Baru, SelangorRates start from: RM206 per person.Website: The Sticks

2. Canopy Villa

Image via Kanopi Villa

Image via Kanopi Villa

Image via Kanopi Villa

Located only 45 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur at the foothill of Genting Highlands, this glamping retreat is spread out over eight acres of land.Enjoy a unique stay in deluxe bell* or air tents while dining over an eight-course barbecue buffet and English breakfast in Janda Baik.*Bell tents are cone-shaped and similar-looking to those found at the circus!Address: Kampung Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang Room rates start from: RM185Website: Canopy Villa

3. Tanah Aina Fahad

Image via Tanah Aina Fahad

Image via Tanah Aina Fahad

Image via Tanah Aina Fahad

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life at this glamping resort located 2.5 hours away from Kuala Lumpur. Relax by the waterfall with a cup of tea and book, or if you're feeling a little adventurous, guided jungle trekking is also available.Address: Lot 1053, Mukim Ulu Dong, Raub, PahangRoom rates start from: RM240 per person.Website: Tanah Aina Fahad

4. Sekeping Serendah

Image via David Lok

Image via Trip Advisor

Image via Capricornlifejourney

Take a weekend away with your loved ones at this unconventional spot surrounded by nature. Popular for its exclusivity, the Sekeping Serendah sheds are perfect to unwind and relax away from distractions.Address: N3.368050, E101.631150 (Google Map coordinates)Room rates start from: RM300Website: Sekeping Serendah

5. Sailor's Rest Resort

Image via Janda Baik Pahang

Image via Trip Advisor

Image via Sailor's Rest

Less than an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur, this glamping site is nestled among the Titiwangsa mountains in Janda Baik.The cool, crisp air is perfect for those wanting a quick getaway that doesn't require long travel time. You can sleep in a spacious tent set up by the stream or experience a night on their cool house boat.Guests can also enjoy activities such as jungle trekking, fishing, and cycling.Address: Lot 8592, Lorong Dato Panglima, Kg. Sg. Lurau, Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang.Room rates start from: RM95 per person.Website: Sailor's Rest Resort

6. Caravan Serai Exclusive Private Villas

Image via Caravan Serai

Image via Caravan Serai

Image via fresh026/Instagram

Whether it's a company retreat, special occasion, or family trip, Caravan Serai caters to all. Some of the facilities include an outdoor pool, karaoke, and bicycle rentals. Fully immerse yourself in nature by going for a dip in the outdoor pool or stream nearby.Reviewers recommend to not skip the nature walks in the morning!Address: Lot 3159 & Lot 3160, 12 3/4 Mile Jalan Tras, 28700 Bentong, PahangRoom rates start from: RM197Website: Caravan Serai Exclusive Villas

7. Time Capsule Retreat

Image via Time Capsule Retreat

Image via Fadza and Nina

Image via Chew Kok Jin

Lose track of time in these unique capsules located in the tiny town of Sungai Lembing, Kuantan. Food stalls are easily accessible as the town is a mere two minute drive away from the site.We highly recommend taking the Rainbow waterfall tour while you're here. It's definitely worth it, especially for nature-lovers!Address: EB4 Belakang Sek Men, 26200 Sungai Lembing, Pahang.Room rates start from: RM139Website: Time Capsule Retreat

8. Parallel Aurora Cabins

Image via Time Capsule Retreat

Image via Time Capsule Retreat

Image via Trip Advisor

Owned by the same family who run the Time Capsule Retreat, the Parallel Aurora cabins are perfect for those who appreciate their privacy. The cabins come with full glass windows that allow you to enjoy a spectacular forest view. Surprise your partner with a weekend getaway at one of these cabins!Address: EB4 Belakang Sek Men, 26200 Sungai Lembing, Pahang.Room rates start from: RM298Website: Time Capsule Retreat

9. Chengal Hill Retreat

Image via Ayuh Travel/Twitter

Image via Chengal Hill

Image via Chengal Hill

Recharge and enjoy the cool air at this glamping spot, where temperatures rarely go above 28 degrees! Sprawled over five acres of land, this retreat has a variety of tents and chalets to choose from.Address: Lot 8537 Kuala Lurah, Kampung Janda Baik, 28750 Pahang, Pahang, MalaysiaRoom rates start from: RM350Website: Chengal Hill Retreat

What are you waiting for? Hurry and make a booking!

Image via Giphy

Looking for your next holiday destination? Check out some of these other less populated spots:

                7 Airbnbs Surrounded By Nature For A Quiet Escape From City Life

Fresh air, a starry sky, and the jungle as your backyard.

Read the full story

                This Colourful ‘Padi Box’ In Sekinchan Will Make You Crave A Fun, Cosy Getaway

Perfect for those little weekend getaways!

Read the full story


Important Things to Know Before You Vote #PRU13

[VIDEO] "How to vote in Malaysia?" by first-time voter, Adam Tambakau

      Unsupported video platform

In case you're still confused about the indelible ink

      Unsupported video platform

How to cast a valid vote

Image via fbcdn.net

So long as a mark, not necessarily an “X”, indicates the voter’s choice, it can be deemed legitimate by the presiding officer.

        thenutgraph.com

A ballot is considered to be spoilt, spoiled, void, null, informal or stray if it is regarded by the election authorities to be invalid and thus not included in the tally during vote counting.

        wikipedia.org

A spoilt vote is the result of completing the ballot in an unapproved manner, such as marking more than one “X”, having "X" or dots at 2 different places.

        thestar.com.my

What is the indelible ink for?

Voters will have their fingers marked with the ink before they cast their ballot to prevent multiple voting.

        asiaone.com

The Election Commission (EC) revealed today that two colours of indelible ink will be used in the coming election to prevent advance voters from voting twice.

        themalaysianinsider.com

Penggunaan dakwat kekal merujuk calitan di atas jari telunjuk tangan kiri pengundi, yang tanpa calitan dakwat berkenaan kertas undi tidak dikeluarkan kepadanya.

        sinarharian.com.my

Registered voters, met at random by the writer, generally thought that indelible ink was a gadget used to mark the ballot paper on polling day.

        themalaysianinsider.com

How do I check my voting status?

Type your Malaysian IC number and click “Check” button. And you will see your election voting information if it exists.

        malaysiacentral.com

Due to cases like people sharing the same MyKad number and just to make sure you're registered in the right constituency, you should check your voting status.

        wordpress.com

You can check your voting status here: http://daftarj.spr.gov.my/

        darnmalaysia.com

How do I become a voter?

If you do not have a record, then register for voting by going to your nearest computerized post office. Remember to bring along your IC.

        winterwong.com

One of the first steps to get involved in the whole process is to first register to become a voter. If you haven’t, it’s still not too late to do so at your nearest post office.

        darnmalaysia.com


[FACT OR FAKE #36] Hitting The Snooze Button Will Ruin Your Entire 2014

JUST. A few. MORE. Minutes.

Image via imgur.com

Do you say THAT to yourself EVERY TIME you hit the snooze button in the morning?

You’ve probably uttered “just 5 more minutes” at some point in your life. In a post-sleep daze, hitting the snooze button on your alarm may even feel like just about the most logical reaction in the world.

        bustle.com

Image via columbia.edu

In the modern age, it's rare to wake up naturally on a typical work day. You set the alarm on your alarm/smart phone the night before and it rudely jerks you out of bed in the morning.

        news.com.au

So you open one eye, rummage for your phone and hit the snooze button for a few more glorious minutes of sleep. And then maybe another spell after that.

        telegraph.co.uk

You may not even remember punching the alarm to shut it up — until you’re suddenly bolting out of bed to catch the last morning bus to work. But your body sure remembers it. Oh yes, it does!

Even if being awoken by a blaring alarm seems like the most natural thing in our 9-to-5 world, research indicates that unnatural patterns of sleep may be harmful in the long run.

        bustle.com

Image via blogspot.com

Even though humans convince themselves otherwise, it turns out the snooze button actually hinders our ability to fully wake up — and makes us feel as if we gotten a worse night’s sleep than in actuality.

        newyorker.com

By hitting the snooze button may seem like you’re giving yourself a few extra minutes to collect your thoughts. But what you’re actually doing is making the wake-up process more difficult and drawn out.

If you manage to drift off again, you are likely plunging your brain back into the beginning of the sleep cycle, which is the worst point to be woken up—and the harder we feel it is for us to wake up, the worse we think we’ve slept.

        newyorker.com

FACT: You might think the extra few minutes will give you time to wake up, but it does more harm than good. Here's how.

People whose sleep is often interrupted or irregular can suffer from a variety of problems in their everyday life from fatigue to illness.
But setting the alarm clock to "snooze" after a disturbed night could make things worse for those who have trouble sleeping because it throws the body's natural clock off its natural rhythm and exacerbates the problem.

        huffingtonpost.com

Image via news.com.au

After you hit snooze and drift off, your brain starts its sleep cycle all over again. When the alarm goes off a second time, you're likely at an even deeper, earlier part of your sleep cycle, which results in you feeling even worse than you did the first time.

        lifehacker.com

This video explains why hitting that snooze button does more harm than good:

      Unsupported video platform

One of the consequences of waking up suddenly, and too early, is a phenomenon called sleep inertia. First given a name in 1976, sleep inertia refers to that period between waking and being fully awake when you feel groggy.

The more abruptly you are awakened, the more severe the sleep inertia. While we may feel that we wake up quickly enough, transitioning easily between sleep mode and awake mode, the process is in reality far more gradual.

        newyorker.com

Image via newyorker.com

Our brain-stem arousal systems (the parts of the brain responsible for basic physiological functioning) are activated almost instantly. But our cortical regions, especially the prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain involved in decision-making and self-control), take longer to come on board.

        news.com.au

Image via womansday.com

In those early waking minutes, our memory, reaction time, ability to perform basic mathematical tasks, and alertness and attention all suffer. Even simple tasks, like finding and turning on the light switch, become far more complicated.

        bustle.com

As a result, our decisions are neither rational nor optimal. In fact, according to Kenneth Wright, a neuroscientist and chronobiology expert, “Cognition is best several hours prior to habitual sleep time, and worst near habitual wake time.”

        newyorker.com

In the grip of sleep inertia, we may well do something we know we shouldn’t. Whether or not to hit the snooze button is just about the first decision we make. Little wonder that it’s not always the optimal one.

        news.com.au

Image via lifehack.org

If you're waking up tired every morning, it's time to face facts: You're not getting enough sleep, and no amount of snoozing is going to fix it. Here's what you can do.

The best advice is to keep going to bed earlier until you naturally wake up just before your alarm—then you know you're getting all the sleep your body needs.

        gizmodo.com

Image via huffpost.com

But who are we kidding? However nice it would be live without an alarm clock, it probably isn't gonna happen. If the temptation of the snooze button is too much, you can at least try and minimize the negative effects it has.

        lifehacker.com

The optimal nap length is around 20 minutes. Less than that, and you gain little benefit. But much more, and you risk falling into deep sleep, which will make the wake-up more difficult. Squeezing in a nap isn't ideal, but it's less disruptive than a 5- or 10-minute morning snooze time.

        advisory.com


Watch These Students' Dramatic Rescue Of A Beached Dolphin In Terengganu

A group of marine biology students from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) successfully saved a beached dolphin yesterday, 12 December

The incident happened when final year student Mohd Nur Aiman Suhaimi received a call from his senior at 1.30pm yesterday about a dolphin that was found stranded on the Tanjung Gelam beach in Batu Rakit, Terengganu, reported New Straits Times."He told me that some villagers found a beached dolphin and needed assistance to get the marine mammal back to sea," Aiman said.

Image via Ihsan via Astro Awani

Without wasting time, Aiman, together with six other marine biology students, rushed to the beach to rescue the dolphin

Mohd Nur Aiman Suhaimi rescuing the beached dolphin.
Image via UMT via New Straits Times

The students arrived at the Tanjung Gelam beach and spent about five minutes moving the dolphin back to the deep water.Aiman related that two passersby tried to carry the dolphin to the water before they arrived, but the cetacean failed to overcome the big waves and that the spot was too shallow."It was worrying when the dolphin started to make some sounds and there was a small cut on its head," Bernama quoted him as saying."Fortunately, the villagers were quick to contact us and it finally managed to swim back to the ocean."

Aiman and his friends saved the dolphin by carrying it to another part of the beach where the water was deeper

Image via Mohamad Azlani via Bernama

Aiman said the dolphin faced some difficulty swimming through the waves at first, but it managed to swim away safely after a few tries.The marine biology students stayed at the beach for another 30 minutes to make sure that the dolphin did not washed up to the beach again.

Watch the video here:

Sekumpulan tujuh pelajar jurusan Biologi Marin Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) berjaya menyelamatkan seekor ikan lumba-lumba yang terdampar di Pantai Tanjung Gelam dekat Kuala Nerus tengahari semalam.Sekumpulan tujuh pelajar jurusan Biologi Marin Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) berjaya menyelamatkan seekor ikan lumba-lumba yang terdampar di Pantai Tanjung Gelam dekat Kuala Nerus tengahari semalam.

Video: Syafiqah Nabilah Mutalib & Wan Amirul Syafiq - pelajar UMTPosted by BERNAMA on Thursday, December 12, 2019

In July, two orcas were spotted in Terengganu waters:

                Orcas Spotted Swimming In Terengganu Waters For The First Time In History

The majestic creatures were sighted by staff working on a nearby oil-drilling platform.

Read the full story


6 Spooktacular Malaysian Horror Books To Keep You Wide Awake At Night

1. Taiping Tales of Terror by Julya Oui

Image via Penguin Random House SEA

Synopsis:13 boys gather and tell tales at night around a campfire about a headless ghost that returns as a grim reaper, a bird-like creature, a vengeful were-tiger, and a murderous vampire. As the storytelling session ends, the boys realise that they started out with only 12 people.Read this if you're into:- Paranormal entities- Malaysian folklore- Twist endings

2. 13 MOONS by Ee Leen Lee

Image via 13 MOONS - a book of stories by Ee Leen Lee (Facebook)

Synopsis:In this book, look out for stories like 'Red Balloon', which tells the story of a ghost of a young girl who asks for help from the residents or passers-by near a playground to uncover the truth of her death.In 'Joe Moth', the protagonist listens to the disturbing conversation between two children on an airplane, and in 'The Specialist's Cat', a girl makes a deal with the devil to protect herself and her mother from an abusive father.Read this if you're into:- Rural Malay horror- Modern/contemporary settings- Double-twist endings

3. Scream to the Shadows by Tunku Halim

Image via Penguin Random House SEA

Synopsis:Scream to the Shadows features five different themes like 'The Occult World' and 'Fragmented Minds'. The controversial story of 'The Rape of Martha Teoh' tells of a returning ghost of an abusive husband; in 'Ladiah', a mysterious maid uses black magic to seduce her boss, and '44 Cemetery Road' tells an evil tale of the undead.Read this if you're into:- Gothic horror- Graphic descriptions- Revenge tales

4. Dark Highways by Megat Ishak

Image via Ookbee MY

Synopsis:The book boasts that it is "not for the squeamish".Stories vary from a killer going on a rampage to avenge his uncle, a cannibal who wants to be loved, and a person taking the new highway back home only to discover there are strange things lurking on the highway.Read this if you're into:- Gore- Cannibalism- Visceral imagery

5. Remang: An Anthology of Ghostly Tales by Daphne Lee

Image via BookaliciousMY

Synopsis:If you like traditional Malaysian horror, this book is full of it. In 'Heirloom', the main character tries to get rid of a toyol and loses everything in the process and 'Restless' tells the depressing story of a girl who always repeats the same dream of walking on an empty road and sleepwalks herself into danger in the real world.'An Umbrella Exit' is set on a train during the Hungry Ghost Festival while 'Hard As Nails' is a fresh take on a very old story of a pontianak and a bomoh who removes her curse.Read this if you're into:- Classic Malay ghosts- Malaysian horror tropes

6. Dark City by Xeus

Image via Youbeli.com

Synopsis:This book contains 12 stories of depravity such as 'Psychotic', about a young waitress who is kidnapped in a dark alley by a serial rapist.In 'One If By Land' a prisoner investigates what is causing his inmates to drop dead before he is next, in 'A Grave Error',  a man wakes up in pitch-black darkness, only to find out he is trapped inside his own coffin.Read this if you're into:- Shocking twists- Sadistic crimes- The dark side of human nature

Here's another list of books if you prefer thrills over chills:

                7 Malaysian Fiction Novels For Anyone Who Says Books Put Them To Sleep

Just like movies, music, and other forms of entertainment, reading a book will most often change your worldview.

Read the full story


There's A New Kiosk In Shah Alam For Malaysians To Renew Their Passports

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Telegram for the latest stories and breaking news.

The Selangor Immigration Department (JIM Selangor) estimates that there is an average of 2,900 passport applicants in a day in the entirety of Selangor

This number totals to a whopping 60,000 applicants a month. Out of all the immigration offices in Selangor, an extensive amount of applicants go to JIM Selangor, making it one of the most sought after offices for passport renewal in Malaysia.

Thus comes the MyOnline Passport kiosk, the first of its kind —
situated at the Selangor Urban Transformation Centre (UTC)

Image via Imigresen Selangor (Facebook)

The establishment of the kiosk is to facilitate passport renewals more seamlessly for walk-in applicants. According to their Facebook post, the Selangor Immigration Department (JIM Selangor) wants to take a more proactive approach to help walk-in applicants in UTC, especially during peak hours.

Everyone from the age of 13 and above will be eligible to use this kiosk

However, this service does not apply to first time applicants, senior and OKU citizens, applicants who have lost or damaged their passports, and students under the age of 21 about to continue their studies overseas.

JIM Selangor hopes to consistently improve in order to give the best possible service for applicants who visit their offices

Image via Hello Kerja

They hope the kiosk grows to be an innovation that will be expanded as an effective option for passport renewal in the future, without neglecting the security aspects of documents issued by the Malaysian Immigration Department.

You can find the kiosk at Jabatan Imigresen UTC Selangor

Now, you have another simpler way to get your passports settled, so you can book that long holiday you've been planning :D

Want to renew your passport online instead of going to a kiosk? Read this:

                Here's How To Renew Your Passport Online

Say goodbye to waking up at 4am and waiting in line for hours outside the immigration office.

Read the full story

There's also an option to walk-in, if you prefer:

                You Can Now Walk In To Renew Your Passport. Here's What To Do

A step-by-step guide to renew your Malaysian passport in person.

Read the full story


SAYS EXCLUSIVE: Things You Didn't Know About Dyana Sofya

1. Dyana was named after Princess Diana

Dyana Sofya was named after the late Princess Diana.
Image via imgur.com

Also known as Dy (pronounce: Dee), Dyana Sofya was named after the late Princess Diana. Some may say Dyana does exude princess-like qualities from her cheerfulness and smile.

        bit.ly

Dyana Sofya was born on 29 December 1987 at approximately 2am in Hospital Fatimah Ipoh, Perak.

        bit.ly

2. She went to Sekolah Kebangsaan Taman Melawati (2) and Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Taman Melawati

Sekolah Kebangsaan Taman Melawati (2).
Image via blogspot.com

Even though she was born in Perak, she was raised and received her school education in Taman Melawati, Kuala Lumpur.

        bit.ly

3. Before pursuing her degree in UiTM, she worked as a part-time waitress for 3 months at Shakey's Pizza in Wangsa Maju

Image via blogspot.com

Like an ordinary teenage girl working a part-time job, Dyana served as a waitress at Shakey's Pizza in Jusco Alpha Angle in Wangsa Maju for three months. The Shakey's Pizza's branch in Wangsa Maju has now ceased operations.

        bit.ly

4. She spends a lot of her time reading and enjoys hanging out at coffee shops

Dyana likes to go to coffee shops with her friends.
Image via eastwood.nsw.edu.au

As a law student in UiTM, she spends a lot of her time reading. She also likes to spend her free time with friends at coffee shops.

        bit.ly

4. F.R.I.E.N.D.S is her all-time favourite TV show. She is also a fan of Japanese anime.

Dyana can be considered as a number one fan for popular sitcom F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Every year, she goes on a marathon of the TV show from Season 1 to Season 10.

        bit.ly

F.R.I.E.N.D.S is Dyana's all-time favourite TV show.
Image via tumblr.com

Despite her interest in English TV shows, she is also into Japanese anime. Her favourite animes are anything from Hayao Miyazaki. Hayao Miyazaki is a retired Japanese film director, animator, mangaka, illustrator, producer, and screenwriter. According to Dyana, Hayao Miyazaki's animes are packed with meaningful messages about life that never fail to capture her attention.

        bit.ly

Hayao Miyazaki is Dyana's favourite anime writer
Image via edgecastcdn.net

6. She likes flowers too

Dyana likes all kinds of flowers.
Image via tripsite.com

When asked if she likes flowers, she said YES but does not have any preferences to a specific type.

        bit.ly

When asked if she was single, she replied "eh tak boleh lah nak dedahkan pasal tu"

Whether she's single or not, you have to ask her youself.
Image via themalaymailonline.com


How Many Of These Unusual Attractions Have You Explored In Australia?

Most Malaysians think Australia is all beaches and cute furry animals, but there's actually loads of hidden gems to experience further off the beaten track

Image via Australia

From breathtaking light shows in Uluru to ghost mushrooms in South Australia, there's just so much to do!That's why Tourism Australia wants to invite you to UnDiscover Australia - the destination you thought you knew.

Here are 7 experiences that take you beyond the guided tours and common landmarks of Australia:

1. Get your adrenaline pumping by abseiling the Gordon Dam in Tasmania

Image via Australian Traveller

It's the perfect activity for any daredevil! Head 140 metres down the world’s highest commercial abseil at Gordon Dam. It’s a few metres higher than standing atop Sydney Harbour Bridge, and holds back 30 times the amount of water than the harbour itself.Location: Gordon Dam, South West TasmaniaWhen: Year-round

2. Check out the award-winning exhibition, Field of Light, in Uluru

Image via Mark Pickthall/Herald Sun

This outdoor installation is named Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku or ‘looking at lots of beautiful lights’ in local Pitjantjatjara. There are over 50,000 solar-powered stems that light up the desert at sunset and glow throughout the night.Location: Uluru, Northern TerritoryWhen: Now until 31 December 2020

3. Take picture-perfect shots with the Redwood Forest Tree Art

Image via Atlas Obscura

These California Redwood trees are up to 180 feet tall, walking through this forest feels like you're entering a magical realm. There are enormous bird nests, woven circles that look like portals, and loads of whimsical tree art to explore. Location: Redwood Forest in East Warburton, Yarra Valley, VictoriaWhen: Year-round

4. Go whale watching and observe other wildlife up close in the water

Image via Tourism Australia

Aside from the super cute and furry koalas, quokkas, kangaroos, and wombats, Australia is also home to incredible aquatic wildlife. Watch whales from the safety of a boat, swim with sea lions, and even submerge yourself with crocodiles!”Get all the wildlife adventure details here.

5. Indulge in homemade lavender ice cream and more treats at this lavender farm

Image via Pinterest

There are plenty of picturesque lavender farms along the east coast of Tasmania. Take your pick of lavender cakes, macarons, ice cream, tea, soap, lotions, and more at Bridestowe Lavender Estate - the world's largest privately owned lavender farm. It's the perfect Insta-worthy spot!Location: Bridestowe Lavender Estate, North East TasmaniaWhen: Best visited between December to February

6. Take a midnight swim among the Bioluminescent Plankton at Gippsland Lakes

Image via Dive Price

During the summer months you can catch the glow of the Noctiluca Scintillans - a massive algae bloom that lights up at night.Location: Gippsland Lakes, VictoriaWhen: Best viewed between December to February

7. Walk through Ghost Mushroom Lane to see the brilliant glow in the dead of night

Image via ForestrySA

The Ghost Mushroom is a bioluminescent fungus that emits a soft green glow at night and you can observe them free of charge! The species is native to Australia and can grow up to 20cm wide.Location: South East Pine Forest, South AustraliaWhen: Between May and June every year

Excited to see what other gems Australia has in store? UnDiscover the best of the land down under for a vacation you'll never forget now!

Image via Tourism Australia

Discover more in Australia with these stories:

                5 Gorgeous Road Trips You Should Take Around Sydney And New South Wales In The Springtime

Explore Australia like a local!

Read the full story

                Climb A Bridge During Twilight And 6 Other Reasons You Should Visit Brisbane

Don't just skip it and head to Gold Coast!

Read the full story

                9 Instagram-Worthy Places In Sydney You Need To See For Yourself

... and give your friends #travelenvy.

Read the full story


8 Mistakes You Don't Want To Make When Buying Coffee Beans

If you're a coffee lover, chances are you own (or want to own) a coffee machine at home

Image via Tech Gear Lab

A cup of coffee a day can end up burning a hole in your wallet, especially if you're getting your speciality coffee from cafés outside that charge upwards of RM7 per cup. For those of you who are really serious about your coffee, you should consider making it at home.Not only is it cheaper, but you also get to experiment with different coffee beans and brewing methods to find out which coffee you prefer the most. So if you are wondering how to get started, you'll need to learn this very first lesson—it's all in the beans.

To find out more about what coffee lovers should be looking out for when shopping for beans, we spoke to expert Paul Berthelsen, founder of Perk Coffee

Image via Epoch Times

Perk Coffee is an online coffee subscription service. You order your coffee beans online and they deliver it to you freshly roasted (and freshly ground to your preference) at a frequency that you want, so that you always get the perfect cup of homemade coffee. Plus, subscribers always get a better pricing than one-off purchases! Use the promo code "50SAYS" to get 50% off your first subscription order.Prior to starting Perk Coffee, Paul lived in Kenya and Hawaii. A farmer himself for 15 years, Paul was able to bring in some of the world's highest quality coffee beans from these regions and deliver them to coffee-loving Malaysians through Perk Coffee. We asked him what were the most common mistakes people made when buying coffee beans, and this is what he had to say.

1. Don't buy more coffee beans than you actually need

Image via Unsplash

Coffee beans have a relatively short shelf life. While it may not necessarily be close to the expiry date, coffee beans are best consumed within four to five weeks of its roasting date. Therefore, you should treat coffee beans like you would fresh fruits. Get your beans fresh in small batches and stock up once every few weeks.

2. Look for a roast date to ensure the freshness of the beans

Image via Perk Coffee

Coffee loses its flavour over time, so as a rule of thumb, it is always good to finish your coffee beans within four to five weeks of its roast date. If you can't manage to find a roast date, try looking for other things like a manufacturing or expiry date to give you a better idea of how fresh the beans are.

3. Pay attention to the colour of the coffee beans you select

Image via The Epoch Times

Over-roasted coffee beans that look darker than usual can taste bitter and lack flavour. Pay attention to the colour of your coffee beans, and learn to differentiate between light, medium, and dark roasts. For coffee lovers looking to get the full flavour profile of the beans, it's better to go with a lighter roast.

4. Try not to buy ground coffee off supermarket shelves

Image via RGD

Most of the ground coffee you see in supermarkets do not show you a roast date, so it's harder to tell how long the coffee has been sitting on the shelves. It's always better to buy whole beans and grind them just before you brew your coffee.If possible, try looking out for specialty coffee. These beans are usually premium grade coffee with a score of at least 80/100 by the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA). Even though these beans are slightly harder to find, you will definitely taste the difference.

5. Find out what grind size works for your coffee machine

Image via Tech Gear Lab

Having fresh and good quality coffee beans is not enough. Knowing the right grind size to go with the type of your coffee machine is also important. Certain machines only require you to put the coffee beans in and will do the work for you. For regular espresso machines, you'll need to grind the beans manually or get the store to do it for you.Quick tip for brewing coffee using different coffee makers:Use a fine grind for espresso machines.Use a medium grind for drip coffee makers.Use a coarse grind for french press.

6. Learn the difference between single origin and blended coffee

Image via Swirled

Single origin coffee beans are best enjoyed black, to fully appreciate the nuances of the coffee. On the other hand, blended coffee beans provide a complex yet balanced espresso that goes well with milk. Knowing your coffee beans means that you'll also be able to bring out the best in every cup!

7. Get to know where your coffee comes from

Image via Five Senses

Coffee beans from each region have their own personalities and taste profiles. In general, coffee from Central and South America tastes clean and sweet, while coffee from Africa is fruity and complex, and coffee from Asia is earthy and luscious. Try out coffees from different regions to discover which flavour you prefer.

8. Make it a point to care about fair trade and sustainable coffee

Image via Humanosphere

When you choose to purchase fair trade coffee, you are helping ensure that small-scale coffee farmers around the world get a fair wage. Fair trade coffee is able to pinpoint the exact farm where your coffee beans came from, allowing these farmers to continue planting coffee in a sustainable manner. So, look out for the fair trade logo next time you buy your coffe beans.

Ultimately, coffee is so much more than just a drink to keep you awake. It tells a story and takes your taste buds on a journey, if you get the right coffee beans for your coffee machine at home.

Image via La Marzocco

And that's what Perk Coffee is here to do—to help coffee lovers get the best cup of coffee without having to worry about where to get their coffee beans

Image via Perk Coffee

With Perk Coffee, all you have to do is order online, either as a one-off or a subscription. You can specify the type of coffee grind you want to go with your coffee machine at home (or get them as whole beans). What's more, you can get the coffee beans delivered to you within days from roast for maximum freshness.Use the promo code "50SAYS" to get 50% off your first subscription order.

Perk Coffee also carries a wide variety of brew gear to help you make the perfect cup of coffee

Image via thetabletales.com

For more information on Perk Coffee, their products, and their philosophy, head over to their website today


[GAMBAR] Perbezaan "Tahniah" dan "Takziah"

Astro Awani kata 'Tahniah' kepada keluarga Azizan atas pemergian bekas Menteri Besar Kedah (Klik untuk gambar penuh)

Astro Awani kata 'Tahniah' kepada keluarga Azizan atas pemergian bekas menteri Kedah (Klik untuk gambar penuh)

Image via blogspot.com

Kesilapan ejaan itu dibuat pada info laporan berita petang pada 26 Sept 2013

Astro Awani dilaporkan membuat kesilapan itu pada info laporan berita itu petang semalam hingga menyebabkan kekeliruan.
Dalam beritanya petang semalam, info berita Awani menulis; "Muhyiddin ucap tahniah kepada keluarga Azizan."

        yahoo.com

Gambar kesilapan tersebut hangat tersebar di Facebook

Ekoran itu, gambar mengenai berita itu menjadi hangat dalam media sosial khasnya Facebook. Pelbagai pihak berkongsi mengenainya dan mengutuk stesen televisyen itu.

        themalaysianinsider.com

Astro Awani memohon maaf menerusi siaran berita seterusnya selepas menyedari kesilapan tersebut

Silap tulis ‘Tahniah’ kepada keluarga Azizan, Astro Awani mohon maaf

Image via themalaysianinsider.com

Walau bagaimanapun, selepas menyedari kesilapan teknikal tersebut, Astro Awani terus membuat permohonan maaf menerusi siaran beritanya selepas itu.

        mynewshub.my

"Kami ingin memohon maaf kepada Timbalan Perdana Menteri, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin dan keluarga Allahyarham Tan Sri Azizan Abdul berhubung info laporan petang tadi.

        themalaysianinsider.com

"Kekeliruan berlaku akibat kesilapan taip itu amat kami kesali, sekali lagi kami meminta maaf," dipetik daripada berita Awani.

        themalaysianinsider.com

Bekas Menteri Besar Kedah Tan Sri Azizan meninggal dunia pada pagi 16 Sept 2013

Bekas Menteri Besar Kedah Tan Sri Azizan Abdul Razak meninggal dunia di Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah (HSB) di Alor Setar pagi 16 Sept 2013, selepas lebih empat bulan mengalami masalah kesihatan yang serius.

        malaysiakini.com

Ailing former Kedah MB Azizan Abdul Razak passed away at 11.10am on Thursday in the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital. Deputy Director 1 Dr Norzaini Murad said Azizan, 69, died at the hospital intensive care unit surrounded by his family members.

        thestar.com.my

Azizan’s condition had been weakening since 1am Wednesday and he suffered a heart attack at 3am. He became unconscious and was put under close observation.

        thestar.com.my

Jenazah bekas Menteri Besar Kedah Tan Sri Azizan Abdul Razak selamat dikebumikan di tanah perkuburan Islam Muasasah Darul Umum, Pokok Sena, Kedah pada pukul 5.30 petang tadi.

        astroawani.com

Baca juga: RTM menyiarkan logo Polis Diraja Malaysia yang diusik

                Logo PDRM Silap: Staf RTM Ditamatkan Kerja

Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) telah menggantung dan menamatkan perkhidmatan individu yang terlibat dalam insiden pe...

Read the full story


[VIDEOS] Snow On Mount Kinabalu Put Smiles On Climbers' Faces

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for our latest stories and breaking news.

It was a lucky day for Mount Kinabalu climbers after snow started falling on the tallest mountain in Southeast Asia at 6.52am yesterday, 28 February

According to New Straits Times, Hajiris Sulomin — a  46-year-old Mountain Torq Via Ferrata trainer — captured the snow on camera and shared it on the Mountain Torq Facebook page."Wow, it is snowing at Mount Kinabalu," Hajiris exclaims in excitement."Opurak... opurak (meaning 'white' in the Dusun language) just like at the white people's place. What a beautiful view!"He can be seen alerting other climbers to witness the rare phenomenon as he spreads his arms out for the snow to fall on him.Borneo Post Online reported that Hajiris was waiting for climbers at the Sayat-Sayat hut at the time.

Image via Free Malaysia Today

The trainer with 11 years of experience told the New Straits Times that the snow lasted for about three minutes

Hajiris said he was not sure of the temperature at that time.It is learnt that the mountain experienced similar weather back in May 2018.

Hajiris Sulomin telling climbers to witness the snow.
Image via MOUNTAIN TORQ (Facebook)

While it is uncommon to witness snow on the mountain, official records show that the same phenomenon happened in 1975 and 1993

"There might have been more incidents but it was not recorded as it could have happened during hours when no one was on the summit area," The Star quoted Sabah Parks Manager Justinus Guntabid as saying.He said the average temperature at Panalaban between 2am and 10am yesterday was between 6.9°C and 12.3°C, reported Borneo Post Online."But today (28 February), it is colder than other days, and so it may be even colder up there. Those who witnessed the snow can consider themselves lucky," he said.Justinus added that 154 climbers and guides managed to witness the snow on the mountain on Monday.

  @mrk_ranau2021 Snowing on top of kinabalu !!! @erasabah #fyp #share #borneo #kinabalu  Sunset Lover - Petit Biscuit

Watch Hajiris reacting to the snow below:

In September 2020, climbers spotted ice crystals on the mountain:

                [PHOTOS] Rare Sight Of Ice Crystals And 'Snow' Form On Mount Kinabalu

Winter is coming.

Read the full story


Ada 936 Tangkap Layar Sejarah Layari Laman Web Lucah Pada Telefon Bimbit Ebit Lew - Saksi

Follow kami di Telegram, Instagram dan TikTok SAYS Seismik, jadi antara yang terawal untuk dapatkan berita serta artikel-artikel menarik.

Umum sedia maklum, kes dakwaan gangguan seksual melibatkan pendakwah bebas, Ebit Lew masih berjalan dan dibicarakan di Mahkamah Tenom, Sabah

Menurut laporan, kes tersebut menjadi lebih panas apabila saksi ketujuh, Superintendan Latifah Abdul Aziz, 43, mendakwa terdapat sejarah  laman sesawang lucah yang dilayari pada telefon bimbit yang dianalisisnya.Terbaru, Latifah mendakwa telah menjumpai sebanyak 936 gambar tangkap layar mengenai sejarah melayari laman sesawang berunsur lucah diperoleh melalui analisis yang dibuatnya dari sebuah telefon bimbit.Latifah yang juga merupakan Juruanalisis Kanan Audio Video Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) memaklumkan kepada Mahkamah Majistret bahawa 146 daripada jumlah keseluruhan gambar tangkap layar yang dianalisisnya adalah berunsur lucah."Saya mohon untuk merujuk gambar tangkap layar yang pertama dan terakhir, tempoh sejarah yang berjaya dikenal pasti bermula pada 14 Jun 2020 hingga 19 Ogos 2021," katanya.

Saksi pendakwaan, Latifah Abdul Aziz hadiri perbicaraan di Mahkamah Majistret Tenom baru-baru ini.
Image via Utusan Malaysia

Sebanyak lapan imej berunsur lucah turut ditemui selepas diarahkan untuk melakukan analisis terhadap sebuah lagi telefon bimbit

Bukan itu sahaja, Latifah turut memaklumkan bahawa telah menemui sebanyak lapan imej berunsur lucah selepas diarahkan untuk melakukan analisis terhadap sebuah lagi telefon bimbit.Difahamkan, kesemua imej itu diperoleh daripada aplikasi WhatsApp dan mendapati hanya satu imej sahaja yang mempunyai penambahan pelekat aplikasi WhatsApp.Dalam pada itu, pada prosiding yang dilakukan pada Khamis, peguam Ebit Lew, Ram Singh membantah soalan daripada pihak pendakwaan kepada saksi mengenai sejarah carian menerusi Google.Menurut Ram, ia sangatlah tidak relevan untuk bertanyakan soalan kerana terlalu banyak carian dibuat di dalam telefon bimbit itu yang dianalisis saksi.Malah, tiada bukti dalam sejarah carian melalui Google yang menunjukkan bahawa sesebuah laman sesawang itu dilawati tertuduh sepertimana yang dikatakan saksi.

Image via Utusan Malaysia

Namun, Timbalan Pendakwa Raya Zahida Zakaria menjelaskan bahawa soalan yang ingin diajukan pihak pendakwaan adalah relevan dengan pertuduhan merujuk kepada carian Google berunsur lucah pada tarikh-tarikh pertuduhan.Menurut Zahida, keterangan itu penting bagi menunjukkan perbuatan dan keadaan tertuduh pada tarikh-tarikh tersebut yang melayari laman sesawang berkenaan sebelum menghantar mesej berunsur lucah kepada pengadu.

Prosiding mahkamah berjalan tanpa kehadiran Ebit Lew

Sebagai rekod, perbicaraan di hadapan Majistret Nur Asyraf Zolhani pada petang Rabu itu dijalankan tanpa kehadiran Ebit Liew yang digantikan peguam, Ram Singh selepas mendapat kebenaran mahkamah.Difahamkan, Ebit tidak dapat menghadirkan diri kerana sedang menunaikan ibadah haji di Makkah.Terdahulu, Ebit atau nama sebenarnya, Ebit Irawan bin Ibrahim Lew, 37, dipanggil pihak polis pada Ogos 2021 yang lalu bagi membantu siasatan berhubung kes dakwaan sebuah video lucah yang dikatakan mirip dengan rupanya tersebar di internet.Walau bagaimanapun, Ebit mengaku tidak bersalah dan mengatakan itu merupakan satu fitnah melampau yang cuba memburukkan namanya.

Difahamkan, Ebit tidak dapat menghadirkan diri ke prosiding mahkamah kerana sedang menunaikan ibadah haji di Makkah.
Image via Ebit Lew (Facebook)

Namun, seorang lagi pendakwah bebas, Firdaus Wong tampil memberikan keterangannya di Mahkamah Tenom, Sabah memaklumkan ada melihat beberapa mesej serta gambar lucah di telefon bimbit seorang wanita yang mendakwa kiriman Ebit Lew.Ebit kini berdepan dengan 11 pertuduhan antaranya mengaibkan kehormatan seorang wanita berusia 40-an dengan menghantar perkataan dan gambar lucah ke nombor telefon mangsa melalui aplikasi WhatsApp antara Mac dan Jun 2021.Kes ini akan disiasat mengikut Seksyen 509 Kanun Keseksaan dan sekiranya Ebit didapati bersalah, pendakwah bebas itu bakal berdepan hukuman maksimum penjara lima tahun atau denda atau kedua-duanya sekali.

Like Facebook, follow Twitter dan Instagram SAYS Seismik serta temui segala cerita 'mesti kongsi' sekarang!

Image via SAYS Seismik


Aidilfitri Tahun Ini, Yoodo Janjikan Hadiah Raya Yang Lumayan & Gempak!

Follow kami di Telegram, Instagram dan TikTok SAYS Seismik, jadi antara yang terawal untuk dapatkan berita serta artikel-artikel menarik.

Artikel ini ditaja oleh Yoodo.

Sempena musim perayaan ini, Yoodo tampil dengan kempen Roda Riang Raya menjanjikan hadiah menarik buat setiap pengguna yang mengambil bahagian

Yoodo merupakan satu-satunya penyedia rangkaian telekomunikasi di Malaysia yang membolehkan pelanggan mengubah suai sendiri pelan mengikut keperluan masing-masing.Kempen yang berlangsung dari sekarang hingga 31 Mei 2023 itu menggunakan konsep ‘spin-the-wheel’ yang menjanjikan hadiah menarik dan lumayan untuk setiap putaran buat pengguna Yoodo baru dan sedia ada.

Image via Yoodoo

Tukar ke Yoodo, jadi pemenang hari ini

Image via Yoodoo

Untuk pelanggan baru, anda hanya perlu bertukar ke Yoodo hari ini dan berbelanja sebanyak RM35 untuk pelan mudah alih mengikut keperluan sendiri.Selain dapat menikmati data, panggilan dan khidmat pesanan ringkas (SMS) yang mencukupi pada harga yang sangat berbaloi, anda juga dapat memutar roda untuk mendapatkan hadiah-hadiah seperti eBaucar, percutian Glamping, data percuma dan banyak lagi! Sekiranya anda memerlukan lebih data tambahan untuk permainan dan aplikasi penstriman, dapatkan produk Booster dan nikmati data pantas 20GB untuk aplikasi kegemaran seperti TikTok, Instagram, Netflix, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang dan banyak lagi pada diskaun 40 peratus, dari hanya RM1 sebulan.

Image via Yoodoo

Yoodo juga tidak melupakan pelanggan sedia ada dan turut menjanjikan hadiah sempena kempen Roda Riang Raya.Pelanggan sedia ada hanya perlu membaharui pelan telco dengan belanja minimum RM35, serta beli Booster sebanyak RM15 untuk memutar roda bagi dapatkan hadiah-hadiah hebat.Malah, setiap putaran adalah satu peluang untuk menang hadiah utama cabutan bertuah seperti iPhone 14, PS5 atau Samsung Galaxy M23 5G.Lebih banyak putaran roda, lebih tinggi peluang untuk memenangi hadiah utama!

×

Bayar hanya apa anda perlu

Yoodo menawarkan data pantas dan tanpa had pada harga berpatutan untuk mereka yang memerlukan pelan data mudah alih tanpa kontrak atau caj tersembunyi, malah pengguna boleh mengubah suai pelan dan bayar apa yang mereka perlukan.Dikuasakan oleh rangkaian terluas Celcom, Yoodo menawarkan pengguna kebebasan dan fleksibiliti untuk menghasilkan sendiri dan menukar pelan pada bila-bila masa, di mana saja.Dengan lebih dua juta kombinasi pelan berpotensi, pengguna boleh memilih jumlah data berkelajuan tinggi, panggilan dan sistem pesanan ringkas (SMS) yang mereka perlukan untuk pelan yang paling sesuai dengan mereka.Selain itu, pengguna Yoodo kini boleh menikmati sambungan 5G ultra-pantas secara percuma dengan hanya mendaftar pelan berkelajuan tinggi dan mengaktifkan percubaan 5G percuma untuk masa terhad sekarang!

Dapatkan penghantaran percuma

Jadi, tunggu apa lagi? Daftar dan pesan kad sim 5G percuma anda dan nikmati penghantaran percuma.Anda juga dapat menikmati 5GB data internet percuma apabila anda mengaktifkan kad sim Yoodo untuk kali pertama.Pengguna juga boleh mendapatkan kad sim Yoodo mereka dari cawangan BHPetroMart, Petronas Mesra atau Caltex Xpress Point.Anda juga boleh memohon untuk mendapatkan eSIM percuma melalui aplikasi Yoodo.Muat turun aplikasi Yoodo dari Apple App Store, Google Play Store atau Huawei App Gallery hari ini.Layari laman web Yoodo untuk mengetahui lebih lanjut mengenai kempen Roda Riang Raya.

Image via Yoodoo


Martell Relives Its Spirit Of Audacity And Celebrates A Legacy Of Over 300 Years

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Telegram for the latest stories and breaking news.

This Spotlight is sponsored by Martell.

Cognac connoisseur or not, you've probably heard of maison Martell from France

Image via Martell (Provided to SAYS)

Maison means house in French, and for Martell, its illustrious origins can be traced back to 1715.Spanning three centuries, Martell's craftsmanship and expertise continues to be passed down from hand to hand, its legacy still safely guarded by the family that first started it many moons ago.The proof, as they say, is in the pudding. In this case, the metaphorical pudding is its cognac. Whether it's Martell Cordon Bleu, Martell XO, or Martell VSOP, the French cognac's willingness to take risks has seen it reinvent itself over the years, offering nothing but impeccable tastes and exquisite sips to fans all over the world.

Proudly boasting over 300 years of passion and audacity, Martell is celebrating its legacy here in Malaysia.
In a recent, specially-curated event at KL's historical Rumah Tangsi, the brand kicked off the first in a series of dinners that took place across the country.

Image via Martell (Provided to SAYS)

Members of the Martell Heritage Team, which include Martell's Heritage Director, Jacques Menier, as well as Amaury and Thierry Firino-Martell, who are the ninth generation of the Martell family, were in town for the inaugural dinner. They will also be hosting celebrations at other iconic locations in the Klang Valley, Ipoh, Penang, Batu Pahat, and Johor Bahru.

Image via Martell (Provided to SAYS)

Upon arrival at the venue, guests were greeted by a special exhibition of Martell's evolution throughout the years

Image via Martell (Provided to SAYS)

From print advertisements that date all the way back to 1893 to documents that showcase Martell’s presence in Malaysia from 1874, the exhibition spotlighted the evolution of Martell cognac over the years.

Image via SAYS

Paired with Martell's core range of cognac — Martell Cordon Bleu, Martell XO, Martell Chanteloup XXO, Martell VSOP — the feast for the night was prepared by local celebrity chef Sherson Lian

Image via Martell (Provided to SAYS)

The menu featured chilled scallops, otah-otah soup, grilled cod and rice, and even a dessert typically served to Pahang royalty, called The King's Pudding. To celebrate Malaysia's own rich history alongside Martell's, Lian took inspiration from his Peranakan roots in order to craft the night's menu.Guests were also taken on a unique 'opestra' performance — a fusion of opera and orchestra — which brought to life Martell's spirit of audacity, as well as its journey through the ages.

Image via Martell (Provided to SAYS)

Image via Martell (Provided to SAYS)

At the event, managing director of Pernod Ricard Malaysia Benny Tsang highlighted that the Martell Heritage Dinner Series is a testament to the strong ties between Martell and the Malaysian market, which dates back almost 130 years

Image via Martell (Provided to SAYS)

"As the first visit we've had from the Martell Heritage Team in two years, it has been an honour to welcome and celebrate them, and especially to be in presence of the Martell family — Amaury and Thierry Firino-Martell, the ninth generation of the Martell family — and the legend himself, Jacques Menier, who has been with the maison for 38 years," said Tsang.He added, "This Martell Heritage dinner series is a testament to the strong ties that Martell continue to have with the Asian market, and Malaysia in particular, even as it evolves and reinvents its traditions to build a new legacy."We look forward to continuing this journey with Martell, and bringing bigger and unique experiences to the friends and fans of Martell."

Fans of Martell can look forward to celebrating the audacity and legacy of the maison with more dinners that pay homage to the over 300 years of exquisite Martell craftsmanship.

Interested in joining future Martell events? Stay updated on news and products by following Martell Malaysia on Facebook or visit its website.

As a reminder, the legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21 years old. That means you need to be 21 and non-Muslim in order to buy and consume alcohol. Remember to always drink responsibly and in moderation. Don’t drink and drive. If you plan to drink, try carpooling with a friend who isn't drinking or catch a cab instead of driving.

Read more #makan stories on SAYS:

                This Viral TikTok Homemade Soda Recipe Only Needs 3 Ingredients To Make! Here's How

Mindblown.

Read the full story

                Michelin Guide Awards 4 M'sian Restaurants A Michelin Star & 32 Others A Bib Gourmand

A total of 97 restaurants made their debut at the very first Michelin Star Revelation 2023 gourmet recognition award ...

Read the full story

                Japan Officially Dubs Frozen Food As Its Dish Of The Year For 2022

Past dishes of the year were non-alcoholic drinks, tapioca boba, and mackerel.

Read the full story

                14 Eateries In The Klang Valley To Dine-In Or Takeaway A Christmas Roast & Holiday Food

Turkey, lamb, pastas, soups, brownies, and pies!

Read the full story

Got some cool brand news to share?

Image via SAYS

Take a look at all our Spotlight stories to date here.


Is MySejahtera Being Taken Over By A Private Company? Here Are 7 Things You Need To Know

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for our latest stories and breaking news.

People on the Internet have started a movement to #StopUsingMySejahtera after it was revealed that a new company may take over the operation of the national COVID-19 app

MySejahtera — which was released on 26 March 2020, according to information on the Google Play Store — is actually not developed by the government even though most of the COVID-19 contact tracing and vaccination appointments are made through the app.The app contains private information of over 38 million registered users, comprising citizens, non-citizens, and travellers.It knows users' names, phone numbers, NRIC numbers, addresses, medical conditions, vaccination statuses, latest COVID-19 test results, and so much more.Additionally, it also possesses users' precise travel history, as the app is said to receive 30 million check-ins and sends out up to 300,000 casual contact notifications on average daily.With the possible change of company managing the app, many Malaysians fear that their data will be abused for commercialisation purposes, among other concerns.

Image via Bernama via New Straits Times

To keep you up to speed, here are seven things you need to know about the issue:

1. The app was developed by KPISoft (M) Sdn Bhd for free under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.
Image via Khairy Jamaluddin

According to a statement by Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin published yesterday, 27 March, the government did not make a single payment to KPISoft (M) Sdn Bhd, which developed the MySejahtera application throughout its usage period between 27 March 2020 and 31 March 2021."This was based on the company's decision to offer the application to the government for one year, without any charge, based on its CSR principle," said Khairy.It is said that the app has been utilised through the 'software as a service' approach, reducing the turnaround time needed for the government to develop the app at the start of the global health crisis. Khairy said the app is a stable and dynamic platform, which allows features to be enhanced to keep up with the development of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.Parliament's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) revealed that MySejahtera was actually developed without a contract with KPISoft, reported CodeBlue.In September last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the government had decided to pay for MySejahtera services from 1 April 2021, when the agreement lapsed, reported The Star.

2. The Cabinet has approved, in principle, direct negotiations to appoint a new company, MySJ Sdn Bhd, to take over the app

According to a Hansard that details the meeting between PAC and senior officers from the Ministry of Finance (MOF), the Ministry of Health (MOH), and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) on 8 March, MOF had given MOH the approval to conduct direct negotiations with MySJ Sdn Bhd.For now, the new company taking over the app is subject to due diligence procedures under the purview of MOH, as the ministry has to verify whether it is a 'valid' party that had developed the MySejahtera system.CodeBlue quoted MOH deputy secretary-general (management) Harjeet Singh Hardev Singh as saying that the ministry has yet to negotiate with MySJ, as it has only recently received approval from MOF.The meeting transcript showed that MOF government procurement division deputy secretary Rosni Mohd Yusoff and Harjeet were confused about MySJ, with the latter thinking the company was just a new name for KPISoft.But upon a quick check by the staff of PAC chairman Wong Kah Woh, it was learnt that KPISoft and MySJ are two different companies.KPISoft changed its name to Entomo Malaysia Sdn Bhd in May 2020, while MySJ was incorporated in September 2020. Both companies have the same registered address at Wisma Adiss Udarama Complex in Kuala Lumpur, reported CodeBlue.

3. The directors and shareholders of MySJ are prominent businessmen in Malaysia

Eco World Development Group Bhd executive chairman Liew Kee Sin (left) and executive director and chief financial officer Heah Kok Boon.
Image via Tatler Asia

The problem starts to get complicated when the names of MySJ's directors and shareholders are revealed.CodeBlue sighted the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) records of the company. MySJ is backed by individuals as follows:– Eco World Development Group Bhd executive chairman Liew Kee Sin and executive director and chief financial officer Heah Kok Boon– Sapura Energy Bhd founder and former chief executive officer Shahril Shamsuddin– Sime Darby Plantation Bhd non-executive chairman Megat Najmuddin Megat Khas, who is also Bersatu disciplinary board chairman– KPISoft founders and shareholders Raveenderen Ramamoothie and Anuar RozhanAll of them hold RM35,528,732 share capital of MySJ through newly incorporated companies. Below are the companies backing MySJ and their respective directors and shareholders:– Revolusi Asia Sdn Bhd (incorporated on 17 September 2020): Shahril, Raveenderen, Anuar, and Naveen Pralhad Deshpande– Hasrat Budi Sdn Bhd (incorporated on 23 August 2021): Liew and Heah– P2 Asset Management Sdn Bhd (incorporated on 3 November 2020): Yap Zi Jing, Johnathan Jaya-Sudhir, and Gregory Jaya-Sudhir– An individual named Ganesan Shanmugam

4. Netizens are boycotting MySejahtera after knowing a private entity may take over the app

Image via Aswadi Alias/New Straits Times

New Straits Times, citing netizens' reactions to the news, reported that the public is upset about the change of MySejahtera's 'ownership'."Is MySejahtera turning into MySpy?" questioned a person, while another added, "Hard to believe that private companies have altruistic intentions — likely to be the first step to commercialisation.""Your private information should be in neither the government's nor the private sector's purview without your consent. The MySejahtera app is a travesty of basic human rights. #StopUsingMySejahtera," tweeted a netizen.The English daily reported that the #StopUsingMySejahtera hashtag gained traction on social media over the weekend.

5. Anwar Ibrahim is questioning MySJ's takeover when two of the shareholders are from KPISoft

×

Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim noted that 71.2% of MySJ's shares are owned by Raveenderen and Anuar, and said it would be dishonest to claim that there is no link between KPISoft and MySJ, reported Free Malaysia Today.The PKR president said the link between the two companies should be investigated.Additionally, he also said the government must come clean as to why the application was sold to a private firm instead of allowing it to remain under the purview of MOH.Questions on why the deal is being made through direct negotiations instead of open tender must also be addressed."Why was MySJ the only company that was considered for the takeover? What is the scope of its operations and [its] expertise?" asked the Opposition leader."And can MOH ensure the data that has been collected via the app will not be abused by a third party, including MySJ?"Anwar also wanted to know whether MySJ will ensure that the data shared by Malaysians through the app would not be used for marketing purposes and the development of products.

6. PAC chairman is against MySJ taking over the app through direct negotiations

PAC chairman Wong Kah Woh.
Image via Parimen Malaysia via Malaysiakini

Wong, who is also the Ipoh Timur lawmaker, said the matter is complicated because KPISoft bypassed the normal procurement process to take on the MySejahtera project as it was willing to work without taking any payment, reported CodeBlue."So now here, the problem is that when this contract was first given to KPISoft. Now suddenly another company comes in to take over the whole application; is it appropriate and necessary for the Cabinet to solely appoint MySJ through direct negotiation?" Wong questioned."So, that is a very big question. When we are talking about, we are going to pay — I mean pay for MySejahtera for a certain period of time — this could represent a huge contract."The DAP politician acknowledged that MOH will be conducting due diligence, but the ministry should have followed stipulated procurement procedures — whether it is by direct negotiations with approval from MOF or based on skill or contract value via open tender or quotations."Please bear in mind the procurement procedure needs to be [strictly] adhered to. And of course, KPISoft, from day one, if they are doing it as a CSR, they shouldn't be charging. If they are charging and if we allow them to charge, they shouldn't be selling the MySejahtera system to another company," he explained."And now the government is telling us, look we are getting another company to manage, we are going to go by direct negotiations and so on. Of course, everyone in the business wants to make money, yes, but what kind of process that we need to go through, that is something very, very important in the eyes of PAC."Wong said if MySJ wants to get the project, it should not have gone through the "backdoor" and that the government should not have allowed KPISoft to sell the app to MySJ so that the latter can get the business and contract.

7. Following the controversy, MOH has refuted that MySejahtera is being sold to a private entity

Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.
Image via Shafwan Zaidon/Malay Mail

On 26 November last year, Khairy said the government decided that MySejahtera will be the government's property and appointed his ministry as the main owner of the application for the country's public health management.According to him, MOH has established a Price Negotiation Committee, comprising members from all stakeholder agencies, to negotiate procurement and management of the application with the company for two years, in line with the government's procurement procedures."MOF, subsequently, through a letter on 28 February 2022, approved MOH's application to procure the MySejahtera application," he said in a statement yesterday."The negotiation process has begun and MOH will ensure due diligence is conducted to preserve the government's interest."He assured that MySejahtera's data is solely managed by MOH since the pandemic began, and not even other government or private agencies have access to users' sensitive information."The confidentiality of public data is guaranteed and the ministry will always ensure that this aspect is never compromised," said the Rembau lawmaker.

Below is MOH's full statement on the issue:


Woman Grows Taugeh At Home During MCO Because Life Is All About Being Innovative Now

Many of us have found different ways of coping with everything that is going on right now

Some of you may have been practising your cooking skills, working out, or maybe just bumming around watching Netflix. Yep, guilty as charged.

Image via GIPHY

A Malaysian woman decided to use her time at home to grow taugeh, better known as bean sprouts within just five days

Mee Ho Chew revealed a step-by-step guide in a Facebook post on 2 April, which has already been shared over 11,000 times.Here's what she did:

First, she soaked one and a half spoons of green taugeh beans for six hours in a plastic bottle of water

Then, she poured the water out and put a gauze over the nozzle.

Image via Mee Ho Chew/Facebook

According to Mothership, Chew explained to put the bottle away from sunlight and to only add water at night. After you have done that, pour out the excess water right after. She wrote that this is how it will look like after one day:

Image via Mee Ho Chew/Facebook

After you have completed those steps on the first day, continue to water the beans three times a day with cold water.
You should then see the outer green shells start to crack open and bean sprouts begin to appear.

This is how hers looked like on the following days.Day two:

Image via Mee Ho Chew/Facebook

Day three:

Image via Mee Ho Chew/Facebook

Day four:

Image via Mee Ho Chew/Facebook

By day five, Chew had 600g worth of full-grown bean sprouts ready to eat!
She even cooked a meal to show her winnings.

Image via Mee Ho Chew/Facebook

Image via Mee Ho Chew/Facebook

After following her taugeh-growing method, many people began sharing their own results with Chew

Image via Facebook

Image via Facebook

You can check out the full post below:

Posted by Mee Ho Chew on Wednesday, April 1, 2020

If you try this out at home, let us know your results and whether or not it works!

Remember to #JustStayAtHome. Watch the latest update on the COVID-19 situation:

Here are ways you can grow other edible plants from home:

                How To Grow Kangkung, Curry Leaves & Other Balcony-Friendly Plants Yourself

You can grow some of these from kitchen scraps too.

Read the full story

Speaking of growing your own plants, check out how this former graphic designer quit her job to become a farmer:

                Former Graphic Designer Goes Viral For Quitting Her Job And Becoming A Farmer In Perak

"I have never felt this free in my life. No deadlines, nobody to please."

Read the full story


Lebih 15k Retweets, Lelaki Ini Bongkar Apa Kesan Maksiat Pada Diri Seseorang. Take Note!

Seperti yang ramai tahu, manusia secara fitrahnya adalah lebih cenderung menyembunyikan perlakuan dosa dan maksiat daripada pengetahuan orang lain

Apa sebabnya?Pastilah kerana perasaan malu. Walau bagaimanapun, kewujudan sebahagian orang Islam yang menzahirkan sokongan terhadap perkara dosa dan maksiat adalah lebih menunjukkan realiti ummah yang sedang sakit pada ketika ini.Menurut laporan Berita Harian, Pensyarah Kanan, Fakulti Pengajian Quran dan Sunnah, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), Dr Ahmad Sanusi Azmi berkata bahawa jika umat Islam sudah tidak malu lagi untuk mempamerkan perlakuan dosa mereka, ini bererti fitrah mereka sudah rosak.Allahu...

Gambar sekadar hiasan.
Image via Google

Hakikat di sebalik kemaksiatan dan kemungkaran adalah sejenis manusia yang berani melakukan sesuatu yang dibenci serta dilarang Allah SWT.

Untuk mengetahui lebih, baca perkongsian seorang pengguna Twitter @shukery_azizan ini tentang apa 30 kesan maksiat pada diri seseorang yang melakukannya

Gambar sekadar hiasan.
Image via Republika

Perkongsian tersebut telah dikongsikan di laman Twitter miliknya dan berjaya mendapat perhatian ramai dengan 15 ribu retweets dan 14 ribu likes ketika artikel ini ditulis. Baca perkongsian penuh di bawah:

30 KESAN MAKSIAT.Pernah tak kita terfikir, setiap kali maksiat yang kita buat, apa kesannya pada diri kita? Sama ada jangka pendek atau panjang. Kita kena faham, antara ciri2 maksiat ini adalah,1. Ia pasti ada PUNCANYA.2. Ia akan beri kesan sampingan. Pasti.— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

Bak kata orang putih, setiap perkara yang berlaku mesti ada cause & effect-nya. Jadi apa kesan2 maksiat yang kita buat? Ini adalah #Thread pnjang. Moga kita sama2 muhasabah dan usaha tinggalkan maksiat masing2. #IniThreadTS #ShukeryAzizan— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

Ada 30 kesan maksiat yang perlu diketahui oleh setiap orang iaitu:

1. Nafsu tidur bertambahBila hidup dlm maksiat, secara tak langsung nafsu tidur bertambah dgn mendadak. Disebutkan oleh Imam Hassan al Basri, ⁰"Sesungguhnya ketika seorang hamba melakukan dosa, dia akan terhalang melakukan solat malam dan puasa di siang hari".(Al-Maqrizi)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

2. Potensi diri 'terbantut'.Ini bukan andaian sesuka hati, tapi dah dibuktikan sejak zaman sahabat lagi. Contohnya, surat Saidina Umar kpd Saad Abi Waqqash sblm perang Qadisiyyah, iaitu sebelum pembukaan Parsi. Antaranya sebahagian isi surat Saidina Umar adalah ;— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

"Sesungguhnya orang2 Islam telah mendapat pertolongan daripada Allah SWT disebabkan oleh kemaksiatan yang telah dilakukan oleh pihak musuh, jika bukan kerana hal itu, nescaya tidak ada bagi orang2 Islam akan kekuatan."— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

3. Nafsu makan semakin liar.Kata Ar Robi’ semasa menambah kata2 Imam Syafie,⁰"Kerana yang namanya kenyang membuat badan menjadi berat, hati menjadi keras, kecerdasan berkurang, lebih banyak tidur dan malas ibadah.”⁰(Siyar A’lamin Nubala)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

4. Banyak kerja yang tak menjadi.⁰Maksiat juga buat banyak kerja terbengkalai & sebahagian besarnya langsung tak jadi. Allah sebut,"Dan sesiapa yang berpaling ingkar dari ingatan dan petunjukKu, maka sesungguhnya adalah baginya kehidupan yang sempit.."(Surah Taha ayat 124)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

5. Allah tarik keberkatan rezeki.⁰Maksiat menjadi penyebab kenapa rezeki kita terasa sempit. Ianya disebabkan ditariknya keberkatan rezeki. Rasulullah  bersabda yang bermaksud,⁰“Seorang hamba dicegah daripada rezeki akibat dosa yang diperbuatnya.”(Riwayat Imam Ahmad)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

6. Hubungan dengan manusia rosak.⁰Pesanan seorang salaf tentang kesan maksiat yang berlaku pada dirinya sendiri,"Sesungguhnya aku bermaksiat kepada Allah, maka aku lihat pengaruhnya pada perilaku binatang (kenderaan) dan isteriku.”(Al-Jawabul kafi)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

7. Allah tarik nikmat kesihatan.Pesanan Ibnu Abbas,“.. perbuatan buruk (maksiat) itu mengundang ketidakceriaan pada raut muka, kegelapan di dalam kubur dan di hati, kelemahan badan, susutnya rezeki dan kebencian makhluk.”(Al-Jawabul kafi liman sa'ala 'anid dawa as syafi)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

8. Ilmu susah masuk ke dalam hati.Kata Imam Malik,“Aku melihat Allah telah menyiratkan dan memberikan cahaya di hatimu, wahai anakku. Janganlah engkau padamkan cahaya itu dengan maksiat.”(Al-Jawabul kafi liman sa'ala 'anid dawa as syafi)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

9. Otak malas berfikir.Kata seorang ulama salaf,"Perbuatan dosa & maksiat mampu merosakkan akal fikiran manusia kerana dalam akal fikiran ada cahaya, manakala perbuatan derhaka dapat memadamkan cahaya. Apabila cahaya itu padam, akal fikiran menjadi lemah.."(Al-Jawabul kafi)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

10. Allah menarik keberkatan masa.⁰Masa kita pun akan menjadi tidak berkat sebab kita telah penuhi dengan aktiviti maksiat. Sebab itu Ibnu Qayyim pernah sebut,"Sungguh! Maksiat itu adalah sebab hilangnya keberkatan rezeki dan waktu."— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

11. Allah menarik nikmat beribadah.Ia sama seperti mana disebutkan oleh Ar Robi’,⁰"Kerana yang namanya kenyang membuat badan menjadi berat, hati menjadi keras, kecerdasan berkurang, lebih banyak tidur dan malas ibadah.”⁰(Siyar A’lamin Nubala)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

12. Seronok & ketagih buat maksiat.Kata Imam Ibnu Qayyim,"Jika sudah seperti itu, hati kita akan melihat maksiat begitu indah. Tidak ada keburukan sama sekali."⁰(Al-Jawabul kafi liman sa'ala 'anid dawa as syafi)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

13. Susah menerima teguran dan nasihat.Allah berfirman dalam surah al-Muthaffifiin ayat 14,“Sebenarnya! (Ayat-ayat Kami itu tidak ada cacatnya) bahkan mata hati mereka telah diselaputi kekotoran (dosa), dengan sebab (perbuatan kufur dan maksiat) yang mereka kerjakan.”— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

"Maka ketika mereka menyeleweng (dari kebenaran yang mereka sedia mengetahuinya), Allah selewengkan hati mereka (dari mendapat hidayah petunjuk); dan sememangnya Allah tidak memberi hidayah petunjuk kepada kaum yang fasik.”— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

15. Selalu merungut dlm banyak keadaan.⁰Allah sebut dlm surah al Maarij ayat 19-21,“Sesungguhnya manusia itu dijadikan bertabiat resah gelisah (lagi bakhil kedekut); Bila ditimpa kesusahan, dia sgt resah gelisah, Dan apabila ia beroleh kesenangan, ia sgt bakhil kedekut;”— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

16. Tak suka muhasabah kelemahan diri.Allah sebutkan di dalam al-Quran,“Sebenarnya! (Ayat2 Kami itu tidak ada cacatnya) bahkan mata hati mereka telah diselaputi kekotoran (dosa), dengan sebab (perbuatan kufur dan maksiat) yang mereka kerjakan.”(Surah al-Muthaffifiin : 14)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

.. tentulah kami akan merejam kamu dan sudah tentu kamu akan merasai dari pihak kami azab seksa yang tak terperi sakitnya".Rasul-rasul itu menjawab: "Nahas dan malang kamu itu adalah disebabkan (kekufuran) yang ada pada kamu.."— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

Baginda menjawab: “Ada”. Aku bertanya lagi: “Apa yg akan Allah lakukan kpd mereka?” Jwb Baginda: “Allah akan menimpakan kepada mereka azab sebagaimana yg ditimpakan kpd orang2 yang melakukan maksiat, kemudian mereka akan dpt ampunan & keredaan dari Tuhannya.” (Riwayat Ahmad)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

19. Hati tidak rasa apa2 dgn kematian & al-Quran.Rasulullah bersabda,“Sesungguhnya hati manusia itu berkarat spt karatnya besi.” Sahabat2 bertanya, “Apakah penggilapnya wahai Rasulullah?” Rasulullah menerangkan, “Membaca Al-Quran dan mengingati mati.”(Riwayat al-Baihaqi)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

20. Sukar untuk bergaul dengan masyarakatLihat pada poin nombor 6— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

Bukan setakat itu sahaja, kesan ini juga akan dirasakan dari dalam jiwa seseorang itu

21. Jiwa cepat merasa resah.Rasulullah bersabda,“Mintalah fatwa pada jiwamu. (baginda menyatakannya sampai 3 kali). Kebaikan adalah sesuatu yang menenangkan jiwa & menenteramkan hati. Sedangkan keburukan (dosa) selalu menggelisahkan jiwa & menggoncang hati." (Riwayat Ahmad)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

22. Cepat putus asaAllah berfirman“Dan apabila Kami beri manusia merasai sesuatu rahmat, mereka bergembira dgnnya (sehingga lupa daratan); & jika mereka ditimpa sesuatu bencana disebabkan apa yang telah dilakukan oleh dgn mereka sendiri, tiba2 mereka berputus asa.” (Rum:36)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

23. Semakin susah utk berzikir kepada Allah. Imam Ibnu Qayyim pernah menyebut,“Maksiat dan lalai membuatkannya lupa zikir kepada Allah, sebagaimana tanaman tumbuh kerana air dan kebakaran terjadi kerana api.”— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

25. Cepat marah.⁰Rasulullah  bersabda,"Marah itu datangnya daripada syaitan dan syaitan itu diciptakan daripada api.."(Riwayat Abu Daud)⁰Syaitan itu sifatnya sukakan maksiat. Mana ada syaitan sukakan pahala dan amal soleh.— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

26. Terasa berat untuk solat subuh & isyak.Rasulullah  pernah memberikan amaran tentang sifat orang munafik,“Solat yang paling berat untuk orang munafik adalah solat isyak dan solat fajar (subuh).”(Riwayat Ibnu Majah)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

27. Mengelak drpd majlis ilmuImam Syafie berkata, “Aku pernah mengadu kpd Waki’ ttg terjejasnya hafazanku. Beliau membimbingku utk meninggalkan maksiat. Beliau memberitahu padaku bahawa ilmu adalah cahaya & cahaya Allah tidaklah mungkin diberikan pada ahli maksiat.”— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

28. Mengelak daripada bersama orang yang soleh.⁰Maksiat biasanya membuatkan kita SENGAJA menjauhkan diri daripada orang-orang soleh sebab takut daripada ditegur atas maksiat yang kita lakukan. Sebab memang sifat orang soleh adalah mencegah kemungkaran.— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

29. Memendekkan umur & keberkatan hidup⁰Kata Ibnu Qayyim,"Ketahuilah bahawa maksiat dpt mengurangi umur dan pasti dapat pula mengurangi keberkatannya, sebagaimana pula amalan kebaikan dapat menambah umur. Itulah perbuatan dosa dapat mengurangi umur."(Al-Jawabul kafi )— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

"Jika seorang hamba melakukan keburukan, maka dia pun akan cenderung untuk melakukan keburukan yang lain sehingga keburukan itu menjadi kebiasaan bagi pelakunya."(Al-Jawabul kafi)— Shukery Azizan (@shukery_azizan) November 13, 2019

Selepas membaca kesemua kesan-kesan maksiat di atas, cuba anda fikir kembali, ada tak yang melekat pada diri sendiri?

Jika ada yang melekat, dinasihati supaya beristighfar sebanyak yang mungkin. Ia merupakan langkah pertama untuk seseorang itu bertaubat dan meminta keampunan Allah SWT. Selain itu, kita juga diwajibkan untuk menjauhkan diri daripada kemaksiatan itu, kita dilarang untuk menggalak, memberi ruang atau menyetujui kemungkaran yang pernah dilakukan.Seperti firman Allah SWT, “Timbul pelbagai kerosakan dan bala bencana di darat serta laut dengan sebab apa yang dilakukan tangan manusia; kerana Allah hendak merasakan mereka sebahagian daripada balasan perbuatan buruk mereka supaya mereka kembali (insaf dan bertaubat).”

LIKE Facebook dan follow Twitter SAYS SEISMIK dan temui segala cerita mesti kongsi sekarang!


Did You Know: There's A Lush Forest Park In The Heart Of KL And It's Completely Free!

Tucked within the heart of Kuala Lumpur is a lush 66-acre forest park that has quickly become a green hideaway for many city-dwellers

You may have heard about Taman Tugu, the urban forest park located between Tugu Negara and Bank Negara. Since its opening in September 2018, the park has grown quite popular among local residents looking for a quiet escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS & Taman Tugu Project

The 66-acre site boasts hundreds of plant and animal species that can be enjoyed while wandering along the forest trails. Adding up to a total of 5km, these routes have been carefully mapped out so that they weave around protected plant species and historical remains.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Walking along the trails, one is surrounded by over 4,000 trees representing more than 230 indigenous Malaysian rainforest species

As part of the Taman Tugu Project, a non-profit corporate social responsibility initiative led by Khazanah Nasional Berhad, roughly 1,000 trees which have been categorised as 'Endangered' or 'Critically Endangered' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) are being conserved at the park. We took to the paths ourselves and found numerous examples of native plant species conveniently labelled for our reference. In partnership with the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM), up to 1,000 trees have been identified and tagged for preservation.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Aside from seeing the plants for yourself, you can also find more information about each species in the full catalogue found on the Taman Tugu website.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

The gargantuan Pulai tree was a particularly magnificent sight. Measuring up to 40m, the 90-year-old tree has become an Instagram-worthy spot for many visitors.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Along our trek we stumbled across these monumental yam plants that looked as though they belonged in a Studio Ghibli film.

Spot the difference!
Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS & Zerochan

Image via postimg.cc

Sourced from nurseries, the plant species found at Taman Tugu are selected based on the type of fauna they will attract

Taman Tugu Project's head of brands and communications Tracey Surin pointed out to SAYS that one plant in particular: daun kadok. Typically used to wrap otak-otak, we were informed that this plant had the important role of attracting insects. This would prevent bugs from attacking other surrounding plants, allowing them to flourish.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

We were told that butterflies, snakes, and over 30 types of birds could be found in the park. On our way around the trail, we managed to spot a few monkeys as well as a hen and its chicks. By enhancing the biodiversity at the site, the Taman Tugu team hopes they will be able to emulate an ecosystem similar to that of a rainforest's.Eventually, the site could potentially accommodate more than 200 trees per acre of land.

The forest park is also bursting with history as it was home to Malaysian government officials in the 1960s

History can be found at every step of the way - literally. Though most of the pathways are formed out of exposed earth and recycled material, there are sections that reveal asphalt - remnants of a driveway that used to lead to an official's home decades ago. The land Taman Tugu rests on was previously the site of British residences, employee quarters, and government officials, including Malaysia's first director of agriculture and finance minister Tun Tan Siew Sin.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Palm oil trees can also be found throughout the area thanks to the British officials who are believed to have brought the seeds from West Africa prior to Malaysia's independence.

With the beginning of the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO), Taman Tugu reopened on 8 May with enhanced health and security measures

As the CMCO commenced, the team worked to offer a safe, open space for the public to enjoy after having spent almost two months indoors. Having consulted various authorities, Taman Tugu reopened with a controlled operating environment. They have rerouted the forest trails to form two 1.5km routes with separate entry and exit points in order to ensure visitors move in a single direction.Signs placed throughout the trail remind visitors to be aware of the health and safety precautions in place. We were told that even the signs get sanitised by staff members.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

But if you ever find yourself lost, not to worry! You can always look out for the security officers dressed in bright orange who will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

The gazebos and swings, where hikers, runners, and families with young kids often used to hang around at, have been sectioned off to prevent any disruptions to the flow of people.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Only a limited number of people are allowed in the park at one time. Despite the long queues this creates during the weekends, Tracey noted that many people willingly wait for their turn (1m apart from each other) to enter the park.They have had over 5,000 visitors in the last week alone.

All visitors are required to get their temperature checked before entering the park.
Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Aside from the park, the only other facilities available to the public are the toilets and carparks. All team building activities, educational trips, and even weddings hosted at Taman Tugu have been postponed for now.But not to fret! You can hop onto their Instagram account for notifications regarding upcoming remote yoga classes and talks which are open to all for free. The park is open daily from 7am to 6.30pm, with last entry at 5.45pm. However, the timings are subject to change depending on weather forecasts and hazards, such as heavy thunderstorms that caused a few towering trees to collapse only a few days back.

A fallen tree.
Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Though this beautiful green space is protected the National Heritage Trust, its upkeep largely relies on public support

Entrance to Taman Tugu is completely free.When asked why they do not charge a small entrance fee to help with maintenance costs, Tracey replied, "We want everyone to have access to the park, no matter their socio-economic backgrounds. RM1 may seem like a small fee for some, but it can add up to a lot especially for bigger families."All along the trail Tracey pointed out small metal plaques attached to several tree trunks that read, "Adopt a tree. Leave a mark for generations."

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Additionally, people can contribute to the conservation and preservation of the park by buying their merchandise or donating via cash and online transfer.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

All proceeds from both adoptions and donations are put into a public trust that ensures public green spaces like Taman Tugu are managed and protected into perpetuity. The funds will also enable them to expand their facilities to include a surau jumaat, a Hindu temple, and more wheelchair-friendly trails.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Their hopes for the urban forest park? To continue providing a natural respite from the city and creating environmentally-conscious communities.

Prior to the coronavirus outbreak, Taman Tugu hosted numerous educational and volunteer programmes for students and adults looking to learn more about local conservation efforts. They have since been put on hold.

Image via Alyssa Pong/SAYS

Speaking to SAYS, Taman Tugu Project's head of brands and communications reflected on the importance of public green spaces like Taman Tugu. "We have definitely seen how beneficial places like this have been for the public, especially during CMCO and RMCO (Recovery Movement Control Order). It would be great to see even more natural public places emerge in the city, whether they'd be more manicured or untouched," she said."We really hope to help shape the next generation of conservationists."


A Group Of Men Slapped And Kicked A Staff At A Publika Eatery When Asked To Pay Their Bill

A slightly over two-minute-long CCTV footage, uploaded on Facebook on last Sunday, 10 June, shows a group of men slapping and kicking a staff at an eatery in Publika at Solaris Dutamas, allegedly because they didn't want to pay their RM77.90 bill

The group, after having eaten their breakfast, allegedly didn't want to pay the bill and so they started the ruckus in order to find a way to avoid paying.Malaysian Indian's Forum, a Facebook page which uploaded the CCTV footage, alleges that the group first complained about the food quality. However, when the eatery staff insisted them to pay, a couple of men from the group threw a plate of gravy on the floor.

Image via FB

The restaurant owner, Ekbal Hussain Mohamed Gani, told NST Online that the incident took place at 11am when he was away

"I got a call from my workers about the incident and rushed to the shop but the group had already left," Ekbal explained to NST Online.According to Ekbal, the incident started after the group complained about the service and threw a plate of gravy on the floor."I was told that the group was unruly from the time they arrived but the actual problem started when they were asked to pay for the food they ate."That is when they began hurling vulgarities at my workers, threatening them and even hitting one of them," Ekbal said, adding that one of his workers, a foreigner, was hit repeatedly on his head and face, by two of the men."My worker had to seek treatment after which we lodged a police report over the incident," NST Online quoted the restaurant owner as saying yesterday, 16 June.

Image via FB

After the report was lodged, police arrested two of the suspects on the same day, according to Sentul police chief ACP R Munusamy

"That night at about 11.30pm we arrested two of the suspects in Kepong, where else the third suspect was picked up the next day evening, to facilitate the investigation," ACP Munusamy was quoted as saying by NST Online.Police have also recorded statements from a few witnesses at the scene and they are investigating the case under Section 323 for Voluntarily causing grievous hurt.

Watch the CCTV footage of the assault here:

Arrogance beyond limitDear friends, on 10.06.18 at 11.03am the above six people have eaten breakfast heavily for RM77.90 at a restaurant in Publika in Solaris Dutamas. It seems they didn’t have money to pay the bill and so they started to find ways to escape. Therefore, they started  to blame about the quality of food. When the staffs insisted them to pay they got beaten up terribly and that group of people also closed the shutter doors of the restaurant. Dear all, please beware of this group before allowing them into your business premises to avoid the same incident occuring. We really hope the police will look into this matter seriously. Please forward this for the public SAFETY. TqPosted by Malaysian Indian's Forum on Monday, 11 June 2018


Mother Shares What It's Like Taking Care Of 7-Year-Old Son With Brittle Bones

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and Telegram for the latest stories and breaking news.

Diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta, Muhammad Raihan Jamaluddin has broken over 50 bones in his life even though he is only 7-years-old

Osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease, is a genetic bone disorder that results in soft bones that are prone to fractures and other abnormalities.  According to New Straits Times, Raihan lives in Kuala Terengganu and has suffered from this condition since birth. His mother, Norhayati Tiimat, said that a fracture would occur every few months, affecting either his arm, hip, or shoulder bones."He had his first broken bone when he was 40 days old. At the time, I panicked as he was so young," the single parent told the English daily."The last time he broke a bone was in January. Each time, I would bring him to the Sultanah Nur Zahirah Hospital (HSNZ) for treatment."

Image via New Straits Times

Widowed at 36 years old, Norhayati became the sole breadwinner, working as a cobbler to keep the family of two afloat

According to Harian Metro, Norhayati said that her son is too fragile to attend school like other kids. Therefore, he spends his days within her reach at her workshop, where she sews shoes to make a living."I'm fortunate that I'm able to work as a cobbler. At least he is in front of me all the time," she said.She added that her son can communicate normally, and yells in pain whenever a fracture occurs."However, I was told there is no cure for his. I have to treat him like a baby. He cannot eat or drink on his own, and is unable to walk," she told Harian Metro.She said his bones are so brittle, they can break if he were to bump into something, mentioning that she has tried seeking traditional treatment to help her son, but to no avail.

Norhayati sewing shoes at her workshop.
Image via Harian Metro

The mother is currently in a dilemma regarding her son's education after a visit from the Social Welfare Department (JKM)

She said the department recently visited them to check on their condition, and advised her to send her son to school like any normal child.However, she is worried that her son may end up with more injuries if he is not under her supervision at all times.

Image via Harian Metro (Youtube)

Born with brittle bone disease, this Malaysian has represented the country in wheelchair racing:

                M'sian Para-Athlete In Disbelief After He's Stopped From Boarding Plane Without Companion

As a fully independent wheelchair user who had travelled alone to a sports conference in Egypt, Lee said it was absurd.

Read the full story


'Chinese Not Pendatang' To 'Do Not Insult Leaders': 7 Remarks Najib Made Today

1. PM Najib Razak told the local Chinese community that they are not "pendatang", calling them instead the "sons of Malaysia"

"As far as I'm concerned, Malaysian Chinese have contributed to the development of Malaysia, to the growth of Malaysia, to the spectacular growth of Malaysia, you played your part. That is why you are not 'pendatang'. You are the sons of Malaysia," he said, adding, "You were born here, you grew up here, and when the time comes, when you die, you'll be buried here. Or your ashes will be scattered somewhere in Malaysia."

Najib addressing the delegates at the Gerakan conference.
Image via The Star Online

2. On Chinese schools, Najib reiterated that they "are here to stay"

“We are the only Southeast Asian country besides China and Taiwan that has Chinese education, so as much as you can complain, you cannot deny the benefit," he said. Najib added that regardless of the type of education, it was important for everyone to work towards national cohesion and unity. He called on Malaysians to look at the retention of Chinese education in an objective manner.

        thestar.com.my

3. While admitting that some UMNO and BN leaders might have made inflammatory remarks in the past, he claimed that it was done in response to the insults issued by "the other side" (opposition)

Image via Today Online

"For every action, there will be a reaction, do not insult the leadership of this country. If you do not believe in it, you have a chance every five years because we believe in democracy and going back to the rakyat. So do not hurl insults or humiliate the leaders of Malaysia,” he said adding that Malaysia needs to be a mature democracy.

        thestar.com.my

4. On the issue of 1MDB, PM Najib Razak said that Malaysians should not turn it into a referendum to change the government, adding that public support was needed for 1MDB to be resolved

"Just don't make it a political football, if there are wrongdoings let the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) find out. We are elected by the people and we will serve the people through difficult times," the Prime Minister said, adding the government would soon announce details of the rationalisation programme for 1MDB.

        thestar.com.my

5. He advised Gerakan members to be more active on social media

"When I tweet something, just click like. Those are the basics." The more "likes" received will push the contents to more people, he explained. "Individuals are more empowered today than ever before because of the Internet, it's not just about the party and government," he said at  Gerakan’s 44th national delegates conference here today.

        therakyatpost.com

6. The PM took a swipe at the opposition state governments today, saying that even they found it necessary to raise charges imposed on the people. Among others, Najib said that Penang has raised its development charges, water tariffs, and parking fees.

Image via Afif Abd Halim/TMI

“We will do whatever is necessary for the people, but because we are in government, we cannot take the populist approach all the time. The reality is that we have to deliver. The opposition, they say all sorts of things but when they are in government, (the fees) go up anyway. So sometimes we have to increase. We have no choice. If not, you pay compensation. It's like the toll," he said when opening the Gerakan National Delegates’ Conference in Shah Alam today.

        malaysiakini.com

7. On the issue of accusations that Malaysia is a police state, the Prime Minister challenged critics to check his record of Internal Security Act 1960 (ISA) detentions against that of his predecessors

“I repealed the ISA. I have been criticised for repealing ISA. Unfortunately, there are people who say that Malaysia is a police state now Check my record. How many people have I arrested under ISA? How many people have been arrested by previous leaderships under ISA? Why are they saying that today (Malaysia) is a police state? This is not a police state; this is what we call the rule of law in Malaysia."

        malaysiakini.com

Image via Malaysiakini

While Najib did abolish the draconian ISA, the law has been replaced by the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012.
And the recent use of SOSMA against Khairuddin Abu Hassan and his lawyer Matthias Chang has led to criticism that the new law is being abused as well, in ways reminiscent of the repealed ISA.

Also, as Malaysiakini notes, the Primie Minister notably U-turned on his pre-election promise to abolish the equally dreaded Sedition Act.As of last March, Political Studies for Change (KPRU) counted at least 120 had been either detained for investigation, remanded or charged under the Act or other similarly oppressive laws. The latest victim is activist Khalid Mohd Ismath, 25, who was last week slapped with 14 charges in relation to a posting regarding the Johor royalty.