This Is Where All Of Malaysia’s New Covid-19 Clusters Are (July 2020)

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After the triumph of bringing down local Covid-19 infections along with the end of the nation’s biggest clusters in June, a new wave of clusters began popping up day by day in July.

This is especially worrying as the new outbreaks come shortly after the Health Ministry predicted zero new Covid-19 cases come mid-July.
Credit: @KKMPutrajaya/Twitter
With Sarawak recently declaring a second wave in the state and the return of double digit new Covid-19 cases, we’ve compiled a list of all the new clusters that have popped up in Malaysia this July.
Kuching Engineering Cluster – Kuching, Sarawak [12 July]
The new cluster involving an engineering firm in Kuching was declared on 12 July with two confirmed cases.
The index case of this cluster (Case 8694) was an employee at the company who sought treatment at a medical centre on 9 July when he experienced breathing difficulties and tested positive on the same day.
Screening of 32 close contacts revealed another positive case and the cause of this infection is still under investigation
PUI Novgorod Cluster-  Alor Gajah, Malacca & Sepang, Selangor [13 July]
Credit: Malay Mail
Confirmed on 13 July, this cluster began with a Malayisan student (Case 8673) who returned from Russia on 5 July and tested positive upon entry at the airport.
Shortly after, a friend and fellow student (Case 8718), who had boarded the same flight from Russia began showing symptoms of fever and breathing difficulties on 7 July despite testing negative.
However, a second test came back positive for Covid-19.
The second patient’s father then began displaying similar symptoms and tested positive for the virus as well.
Health Director General Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah revealed that four family members had picked up Case 8718 from the airport and advised to limit the number of people picking up returnees.
As of 20 July, the cluster consisted of 6 positive cases and active tracing of close contacts is currently underway.
PUI Novgorod as of 20th July 2020.(Credit: @KKMPutrajaya/Twitter)
Mambong Cluster – Samarahan & Kuching Sarawak [16 July]
A new cluster was announced on 16 July, involving a company in Mambong, Sarawak.
The index case (Case 8732)  is a foreign national who works as a project engineer at a local company in Kuching and developed symptoms on 12 July.
Covid-19 testing at a private hospital came back positive on 14 July.
A local man living in Kota Samarahan who worked as an engineer at the same company also tested positive for the coronavirus on 14 July.
Covid-19 swab test.(Credit: Health Ministry via kpkesihatan.com)
The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) classified it as local transmission as the patients did not have a history of visiting or returning from abroad.
As of 18 July, there are a total of five infected individuals in the Mambong Cluster.
PUI Pitakwa Cluster – Terengganu [17 July]
The index case is a Malaysian (Case 8737) who returned from Nigeria on 11 July.
Although the patient tested negative after Covid-19 screening at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) upon arrival, a repeat test was ordered three days later as he began to experience severe symptoms.
Credit: Malay Mail/Miera Zulyana
The second Covid-19 test came back positive and the patient was admitted to Hospital Hulu Terengganu.
Following that, close contacts including family members, colleagues, taxi drivers, aircraft crew and passengers were identified and screened for the virus.
PUI Shirala Cluster – Selangor [17 July]
This cluster began with a non-Malaysian professional (Case 8730) who arrived in the country on 6 July for work.
He had tested negative for two Covid-19 tests in India and at KLIA.
Five days after his arrival in Malaysia, he had to repeat Covid-19 testing after experiencing symptoms and the results came back positive. He was admitted to Hospital Sungai Buloh Hospital.
His wife and child later tested positive for the virus as well.
Kuching Medical Centre Cluster – Kuching, Sarawak [17 July]
Credit: Hari Anggara/Malay Mail
The index case of Kuching medical centre cluster is Case 8734, an asymptomatic medical frontliner who tested positive on 14 July.
A new case was then reported on 17 July – a healthcare worker and colleague of the first patient. The new case did not show symptoms and was admitted to Sarawak General Hospital.
This cluster comprises two cases so far, with the source of infection still under investigation.
Though not part of this cluster, another healthcare worker in Kuching was found positive after showing mild signs and symptoms from 13 July.
She went in for testing at Borneo Medical Centre as she wanted to travel to Penang and the results came back positive on 18 July.
Contact tracing of the case is underway and investigation is ongoing.
Jupiter Cluster – Bintulu, Sarawak [17 July]
Crew members of the LNG Jupiter ship have tested positive for Covid-19.(Credit: xelote/marinetraffic.com)
Index case of the Jupiter cluster is a non-Malaysian crew member of the LNG Jupiter cruise ship with travel history to Japan and Singapore.
Case 8723 began showing symptoms on 3 July and his condition deteriorated on 11 July when the cruise ship was in Sarawak waters.
The patient was then taken to a medical centre and tested positive for Covid-19, and transferred to Hospital Bintulu for treatment.
Screening of close contacts showed two more positive cases (Case 8747 and Case 8748).
However, the Health Ministry has determined that this is an isolated imported cluster with no exposure to the surrounding community. The ship’s crew members are also not allowed to disembark.
MOH assures cases that require treatment will be immediately taken to medical centres and hospitals.
Stutong Cluster- Kuching, Sarawak [18 July]
Officially dubbed the ‘Stutong cluster’, MOH said that two new positive cases were detected as of 18 July,  originating from an outbreak at the Stutong Community Market.
Over 200 local and foreign nationals working at the market have been screened while the market has been shut down temporarily for disinfection.
Disinfection and sanitation works previously carried out at the Stutong Community Market by the Fire and Rescue Department on 11 July.(Credit: Council of the City of Kuching South – MBKS/Facebook)
KL Restaurant Cluster – Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur [19 July]
The Kuala Lumpur restaurant cluster was detected at a Brickfields eatery following a random screening by the District Health Office.
On 19 July, the Health Ministry confirmed the cluster as two Indian nationals have tested positive for the virus.
250 restaurant staff and 236 customers have been successfully screened, with no other cases identified besides the two.
Earlier on 10 July, a popular eatery at Brickfields confirmed on Facebook that one of their staff tested positive for Covid-19. The restaurant is currently closed and all staff under quarantine pending further instructions from the Health Ministry.

Sepang Rumah Kongsi Cluster – Sepang, Selangor [19 July]
The cluster was detected at a Sepang construction site and involved mostly foreign nationals.
The Health Ministry announced the cluster on 19 July with the index case being an Indonesian worker, followed by a Bangladeshi who is a close contact.
The source of the infections is still being investigated.
Kuching Jetty Cluster – Kuching, Sarawak [19 July]
Astro Awani reports that the cluster involves a fishing vessel jetty at Pending, Kuching.
The Kuching Jetty cluster in Sarawak involves two Indonesians as the index case and close contact.
The index case was confirmed positive for the virus on 13 July while the close contact tested positive on 18 July.
Fishermen have been tested and authorities were still investigating the initial source of the outbreak.
Old Folks Home Cluster – Kluang, Johor [20 July]
Credit: jcomp/Freepik
The cluster was identified following the death of a senior citizen at the emergency department of Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom, Johor on 17 July.
The 72-year old Malaysian male (Case 8770) was a resident of an old folks home in Kluang, Johor with a history of chronic high blood pressure and stroke.
He developed a fever and cough on 10 July but was only confirmed Covid-19 positive after his death.
Active case detection of his close contacts revealed 14 positive infections involving 11 other elderly residents of the home, one employee and one family member of a resident.
The Health Ministry is currently investigating the source of the Covid-19 infection.
Sentosa Cluster – Kuching, Sarawak [21 July]
The index case (Case 8773) is a healthcare staff at Sentosa Hospital in Kuching who tested positive for the virus on 19 July.
Following screening of close contacts, 5 Covid-19 positives were identified on 21 July – who are healthcare staff at the hospital and one hospital cleaner.
Credit: @KKMPutrajaya/Twitter
Following the emergence of 21 Covid-19 positive cases traced from the Hospital Sentosa cluster, the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) ordered the hospital closed on 26 July and all staff ordered to undergo Covid-19 screening.
PUI Melbourne Cluster – Kuching, Sarawak [22 July]
The index case of this cluster is a Malaysian student (Case 8749) who returned on 15 July from Melbourne, Australia.
The student had come back via two flights, first from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur and then from KL to Kuching, and immediately brought to the quarantine centre and screened for Covid-19.
Though asymptomatic, the test result came back positive on 17 July and the student was admitted to Sarawak General Hospital.
Following that, active case detection was carried out and a fellow passenger on the flight to Kuching also tested positive for the coronavirus.
Close contacts including flight and public transportation passengers are being tested while the Health Ministry is still investigating source of the infection.
Hyde Park Cluster – Port Klang, Selangor [22 July]
Credit: Fung Weng Cheong/Malay Mail
This cluster originated from a ship in Port Klang, where it was identified following screening of the crew members before they could return to their countries.
The index case is a Russian national (Case 8769) with a travel history to Egypt and India.
Currently, the cluster comprises of four non-Malaysian crew members who are being treated at Sungai Buloh Hospital while their close contacts are quarantined on the ship which has been disinfected.
The Health Ministry has also identified this as an isolated cluster contained to the ship with no risk of community infection.
Elsa Cluster – Kuantan, Pahang [24 July]
This cluster was identified from a shipping crew member (Case 8839) with air travel history from The Philippines and transit in Korea who had entered Malaysia on 16 July for work.
After landing in Malaysia, the patient boarded a flight to Kuantan and spent the night in a hotel there. The next day, the patient headed to the ship for onboard quarantine as approved by the Malaysian Marine Department.
The patient had tested negative on the pre-departure Covid-19 screening in the Philippines.
However, the patient began developing symptoms five days after arrival and subsequently tested positive for Covid-19 on 22 July.
Contact tracing and screening are currently underway while the patient is recovering in Hospital Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah, Pahang.
Initial screening revealed three positive cases in this cluster.
PUI Ramnad Cluster – Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur & Putrajaya [24 July]
This cluster involves a Malaysian (Case 8817) who had returned from Ramanathapuram (aka Ramdad), India on 6 July and tested negative during the Covid-19 screening at KLIA upon landing.
The patient then underwent home quarantine but began developing symptoms on 19 July.
The second Covid-19 screening on the 13th day of quarantine came back positive and the patient was admitted to Sungai Buloh Hospital.
Contact racing and testing revealed infections among family members and fellow passengers on the flight from India to Kuala Lumpur.
PUI Al Khobar Cluster – Petaling, Selangor [24 July]
The index case for the PUI Al Khobar Cluster is a Malaysian (Case 8803) who returned from Saudi Arabia. On 10 July, and also tested negative for the virus upon arrival at KLIA.
The patient was placed under home quarantine together with five family members, who had returned together from Saudi Arabia. There were also two other family members residing in the same house.
The patient started displaying symptoms on 18 July and tested positive for the virus two days later.
Covid-19 screening conducted on the 7 family members of the patient in the house revealed one of them to be positive, while the rest tested negative.
5 Kluster melaporkan kes baharu hari ini termasuk 3 kluster baharu.1. Sentosa (8 kes)2. Elsa (3)3. Warga Emas Kluang (2)4. PUI Ramnad (2)5. Al Khobar (1)Tiada pertambahan kes di kluster lain. pic.twitter.com/SNOBdsCO7t— KKMPutrajaya (@KKMPutrajaya) July 24, 2020
Bukit Tiram Cluster – Bukit Tiram, Johor [25 July]
This cluster was identified after two positive Covid-19 cases were reported from a religious centre in Taman Bukit Tiram involving foreign nationals who work there (Case 8868 and Case 8869).
Both patients began developing symptoms on 15 July but did not get immediate medical attention. They then underwent Covid-19 screening and tested positive on 24 July.
Active case detection is currently underway and the Health Ministry is investigating the source of the infection.
At least 9 Covid-19 positive patients have emerged from this cluster.
Kuching Construction Company Cluster – Kuching, Sarawak [25 July]
The first case in this cluster was detected on 11 July (Case 8715) from a construction site worker in Kuching.
Initial Covid-19 screening of the patient’s close contacts, including housemates and workmate, came back negative.
However, repeat testing on the patient’s close contact revealed another positive patient (Case 8715).
The Health Ministry states that they are still investigating the source of the infection while active case detection is ongoing.
Kes baharu #COVID19 hari ini melonjak kepada 39 kes dengan 28 kes jangkitan tempatan. Kerajaan sedia mengembalikan PKP jika kes baharu 3 digit. Patuhi SOP setiap masa. Pakai pelitup muka di tempat sesak untuk lindungi diri anda, keluarga dan orang lain. #kitajagakita pic.twitter.com/KpwImqdYY9— KKMPutrajaya (@KKMPutrajaya) July 28, 2020
PUI Sivagangga Cluster – Kubang Pasu, Kedah [28 July]
The index case in this cluster involves a Permanent Resident (Case 8937) who returned to Malaysia from Sivagangga, India on 13 July and tested negative at the KLIA Covid-19 screening.
Though ordered to undergo mandatory self-quarantine at home (Home Surveillance Order) to visit his eatery, the patient did not follow the orders.Follow up testing came back positive for the virus and the patient was admitted to Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Kedah.
The index patient also owns an eatery and infected at least four employees who live together with Case 8937. A family member of the patient was also infected.The eatery has been closed for sanitation and disinfection while the authorities will take action.
Satok Cluster – Kuching, Sarawak [28 July]
This cluster was identified at a market in Satok, Kuching where Covid-19 screening was carried out on traders.
From the screening, at least four traders tested positive – though asymptomatic – for the virus and admitted to Sarawak General Hospital.
Sanitation and disinfection of the marketplace is carried out, including business premises and facilities.

Did we miss out on any? Let us know on TRP’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Source:
MOH Targets Zero New Covid-19 Cases By July
Sarawak facing second wave of COVID-19, says Uggah
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 14 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 12 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Covid-19: 7 new positive cases detected in Sarawak today, new cluster emerges at Stutong Market
Five New Covid-19 Cases, Three Sarawak Local Transmissions
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 17 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Di Malaysia
Covid-19: 6 new positive cases recorded in Sarawak today, total at 607
Sarawak Records 10 New Covid-19 Cases, Two Fresh Clusters
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 18 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 19 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Kluster Jeti, kluster terbaharu di Sarawak
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 20 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 21 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 22 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 24 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 25 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 28 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia


Cost Of Drinks At Kopitiams In Sabah Goes Up, Reaching RM4 Soon

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Unlike the nation’s economy, the cost of daily beverage fixes in coffee shops in Sabah is on the rise.

No matter what your preference – Nescafe, Milo, Nestum, Kopi O, Teh C – the cost, in general, has gone up in the state’s kopitiams.
Rising rents, labour costs and price increases for commodities such as milk had been contributing factors.
A new price list which was posted on Facebook had set tongues wagging.

The price increase is more than a minor irritant. (Pix: 斗湖新媒体)
Netizens said they will soon have to ‘eat grass’ if the situation continues to worsen.
They pointed out that prices of meals have also gone up, doubling the pain on one’s wallet during a time of economic uncertainty.
Uinah bosku. Banyak boleh kena kalau di Sabah ni. Minuman semua mahal macam lahanat. https://t.co/8TJBq1VJSW— Azfar Mohamed (@azfarmohamed24) February 11, 2020
It doesn’t help that Sabah ranks as the poorest state in Malaysia.
In 2020, Sabah had the highest rate of poverty with 25.3 per cent of the population living below the poverty line.
READ MORE: Road Repairs Takes Time As It’s Toll-Free, Bung Mokhtar Tells Sabahans
A bowl of meat noodle, a staple breakfast in Sabah, now costs at least RM10. (Pix: Facebook)
Sabahans said they’ve had enough and urged the federal government to stop neglecting their welfare.
They pointed out that Sabah and Sarawak are always left out whenever the government hands out goodies to the people.
Kepada keluarga malaysia tp utk sabah/ sarawak mcm mana? Bagi la sesuatu utk keluarga kita di borneo juga. Kecik ati org sana. Dah la tiket flight mahal 😭😭Minta tlg DS @MyKinabatangan tolong bisik2 kepada PM https://t.co/v7sOjTAOaN— Lut 🇲🇾 (@Ktxk9888) April 25, 2022
 Economic Uncertainty And Hardship
DAP leader and Teluk Intan MP Nga Kor Ming said the rising prices of goods are not only worrying but scary.
The former Dewan Rakyat deputy speaker noted that all the food prices had increased, even roti canai and the price of coffins.
While the people are suffering from price hike, our ringgit value had dropped drastically and see no rebound at all. This add up to more price hike when we depend heavily on imported goods especially food.Teluk Intan MP Nga Kor Ming to TRP on rising prices hitting Malaysians badly.
Pagi ini jalan-jalan dan makan-makan di kedai kopi Sandakan sebelum bertolak balik ke KL. Bersyukur dapat mendengar rintihan hati rakyat Sabah & kami sudah ambil maklum & akan membawa suara rakyat Sabah di Parlimen. #DemiRakyat #BangkitBersama @dapmalaysia pic.twitter.com/l6s7Em0Emt— Nga Kor Ming (@NgaKorMing) June 6, 2022
He pointed out that Malaysia will need to import more than RM55.5 billion worth of food to cater for local markets and things are not getting any better.
To make the matter worse, the government had announced a new electrical tariff will be imposed with effect from next month. Subsidy for chicken breeders will be cancelled next month.
The sugar price is expected to be increased too as the government failed to open up the sugar supply for fair market competition.Teluk Intan MP Nga Kor Ming to TRP on fading hopes that that prices will remain stable.
Nga concluded that serious reforms and a new government, which is based on integrity, accountability, transparency and most importantly, the political will to implement institutional reforms – are needed.
Percuma tambang pengangkutan awam 1 bulan saja, dapat tambahan duit dari kenaikan bil elektrik setiap bulan! @IsmailSabri60 Main pusing² kepala rakyat, rakyat rela tak nak percuma 1 bulan tu, tambang pengangkutan awam mesti kira murah kalau nak naik harga bil elektrik! https://t.co/bBSgGTWUvb— Snow Yuki Yap 🇲🇾 (@snowyukiyap) June 18, 2022

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Fun Events In The Klang Valley This Weekend From 9 To 11 June

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Don’t know what to do this weekend in the Klang Valley? No worries, we got you. 👀

Head over to art exhibits, markets, shows, concerts and more this weekend.
Note that some of these events only happen for a day or can last for a whole month so look at the dates carefully.
If you wanna skip to the specific day you want, choose your preferred day here.

Friday
Saturday & Sunday

Here are some of the events that are still ongoing from our previous list.
READ MORE: Fun Events In The Klang Valley This Weekend From 2 To 4 June
Ongoing Events
1. BookFest Malaysia (Book Festival) @ KL Convention Centre (2 – 11 Jun, 10 am – 10 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by KLCC Convention Centre (@klccconventioncentre)
BookFest @ Malaysia has come a long way since its inception in 2006, maturing into Malaysia’s largest trilingual book exposition, as certified by the Malaysia Book of Records in 2016.
This year, BookFest @ Malaysia 2023 shall encompass an area of 100,000 sq ft, whereby Halls 1 and 2 will feature a dazzling array of Chinese books, text and assessment materials, mind-blowing CDs & DVDs, and exciting Anime & Comics Fest. Halls 4 and 5 are featuring an awe-inspiring collection of English books, state-of-the-art gadgets & IT, cutting-edge stationery and mouth-watering titbits.
The admission is RM2.50 per ticket for one-day entry, or RM10 per season pass for unlimited entry throughout the promotion.
2. The World Of Tim Burton (Exhibition) @ Pavilion Bukit Jalil (21 March – 30 July, 10 am – 10 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Pavilion Bukit Jalil (@pavilionbukitjalil.mall)
For the first time in Southeast Asia and the last stop in Asia – The long-awaited ‘The World of Tim Burton’ Pop-Up Museum is finally here at Pavilion Bukit Jalil!
Featuring numerous talented works from Tim Burton’s early stages of sketches and drawings to the talented artist’s most recent projects of puppets and life-sized sculptures used in his film work, you’ll be sure to step into an incredible experience like no other!
Tickets are priced at RM88 per pax but they have discounts for kids, seniors, students and OKUs. For more details, visit here.
Read our review of the first look at the exhibition below.
READ MORE: A Glimpse Into The World Of Tim Burton
3. The World Of Nickelodeon Malaysia (Kids Cartoon Carnival) @ Pavilion Bukit Jalil (28 April – 23 July, 10 am – 10 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Star Fortress (@star.fortress)
Are your kids a fan of Nickelodeon’s cartoons? This carnival is the perfect place for families to bring their kids and have a fun time together with 17 interesting stations and tonnes of photo opportunities set up over 14,000 square feet.
You’ll even spot characters from shows like SpongeBob SquarePants, PAW Patrol, Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dora the Explorer, and Bubble Guppies so bring your kids for a fun day at the carnival!
READ MORE: First Ever Nickelodeon-Themed Carnival In Malaysia
Tickets start at RM16 for adults and RM46 for kids. Book them here.
Here are specific events to enjoy with your family and friends on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
9 June (Friday)
1. Just Jokes: Comedy Debate Night (Comedy Show) @ Ark Event Space, Sri Hartamas (2 – 5 June, 10 am – 12 am)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by just jokes: (@justjokesmy)
Just Jokes is bringing a new show called Comedy Debate Night with a super stellar lineup of performances to bring you live stand-up comedy, as well as to debate and improv on the latest Malaysian and also world news! Featuring the great Farid Azmeir, Nat Kang, Marissa Wong, Sundeep Singh and a special guest.
Entry is RM35 per pax. You can still get the tickets here.
2. Luv It Pink (Weekend Market) @ Central Market (9 – 11 June, 10 am – 8 pm)

On Wednesdays, we wear pink. 👀
Put on your best pink outfit and make your way to Pasar Seni this 9 – 11 June 2023 from 10.00 am to 8.00 pm. A lot of exciting and pinkish programmes await you. Some of them include face painting, crochet art workshops, thematic live performances and many more.
Follow their Instagram for more weekly events.
3. Tokyo Auto Salon (Autoshow) @ MITEC (9 – 11 June, 10 am – 10 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by MITEC (@mitec_my)
Rev up your excitement as, for the first time ever, the iconic Tokyo Auto Salon makes its way to KL!
Get ready for an unforgettable automotive extravaganza, showcasing the latest trends, custom cars, and cutting-edge innovations. So, get your tickets and don’t miss out on the chance to experience the essence of Tokyo’s renowned auto show right here at MITEC!
Tickets are sold at RM50 per entry. Get them here.
For more info and updates, visit here.
4. Kampung Ronggeng (Traditional Music Concert) @ Damansara Performing Arts Centre, DPAC (9 – 11 June, 8.30 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Gangsapura Gamelan Group (@gangsapura)
Get ready for a Malay gamelan music experience staged in the Black Box of Damansara Performing Arts Centre (DPAC), unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Their contemporary concert layout is designed to break down the barriers between performer and audience and create a completely immersive experience that will transport you to another world.
Audiences, dressed in ‘orang kampung’ outfits, will be part of the scene, make decisions to change the course of the concert, and will be enjoying 10-11 original compositions that highlight the ups and downs of ‘orang kampung’.
Tickets start at RM63. Get them here. Click here for more info.
5. Oissu! Fest Malaysia @ Central i-City (8 – 11 June, 10 am – 10 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by OISSU! FEST (@oissu_fest)
Attention Anime fans! Be prepared to explore an unforgettable event surrounded by anime, comics, gaming, cosplayers & toys.
Happening for the first time at Central i-City, Oissu Fest has a large variety of exciting activities for you such as stage performances, competitions, meet & greet, mini-games, artist booths, and many more!
For more info, visit here.
10 & 11 June (Saturday & Sunday)
1. Festive Drum Free Workshop @ GMBB (11 June, 2 pm, 3 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by GMBB (@gmbb.kl)
If you’re looking for a live performance to raise your spirits, or a workshop for you and your family, come over this Sunday 11 June and check out Hands Percussion Academy’s Students’ Presentation Show and their 24 Festive Drums Free Workshop!
Visit here for more info.
2. The Urban People 2.0 Market @ SJCC Gallery, Subang Jaya (9 – 11 June, 2 pm – 10 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by 平民市集 Pingmin Market (@pingminmarket)
Bring your family and friends to a weekend market in Subang Jaya this weekend. With plenty of local vendors selling food, as well as arts and crafts, The Urban People Market is not to be missed.
Besides that, this pet-friendly market is also pork and alcohol-free. There are a lot of children’s activities here too.
For more info, visit their Instagram.
READ MORE: There’s A Malaysian “Car Boot” Sale At KLPAC This Saturday!
2. Shop & Hop Bazaar (Pop-up Market) @ The School, Jaya One (10 & 11 June, 11 am – 6 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Unicorn Bazaar (@unicorn_bazaarkl)
This weekend, pose with unicorns at this event’s Unicorn Photobooth and receive free Unicorn Balloons, Unicorn Lollypops, and Unicorn Homemade Meringue!
Explore over 25 vendors offering a variety of goodies, including preloved and new baby to adult garments, F&B delights, handmade arts & crafts, cute & funky jewellery, crystals, tattoo handpokes, artisan desserts & pastries, eco-friendly cleaning supplies by EkoKlaire, cotton candy, ice cream, and so much more!
Visit here for more info.
3. Acrobatic Lion Dance Championship 2.0 (Live Competition & Show) @ Quayside Mall (3 – 4 June, 2 pm – 10 pm)
        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Quayside Mall (@quayside_mall)
In the mood to watch live action-packed acrobatic dancing?
Get ready for the grandest Acrobatic Lion Dance Championship ever! Join them on 11 June 2023 as the Acrobatic Lions take centre stage, flipping and leaping their way to victory! But, that’s not all!
Immerse yourself in the Lion Dance Role Playing event, or unleash your creativity at the Arts and Craft Workshop!
Click here for more info.
Upcoming Shows
Here are some of the ticketed events for upcoming shows. Don’t miss out on the chance to secure a spot at your favourite performance or event.

Theatresauce’s Saturn Return – Play about womanhood (14 – 18 June @ Rooftop Theatre, Sunway College)Get tickets here.
Showcase Jiwa Kacau 2023 – Concert (17 June @ Malawati Indoor Stadium, Shah Alam) [Line Up: Bunkface, Insomniacks, Masdo, Hujan]Get tickets here.
Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival – Cultural Music Festival (23 – 25 June @ Sarawak Cultural Village) [Line Up: Gipsy Kings, Big Mountain, etc]Get tickets here.
Dimash Qudaibergen Live In Malaysia – Concert (24 June @ Axiata Arena)Get tickets here.
NusaFest – Concert (8 & 9 July @ Bandar Malaysia, Sungai Besi)[Line Up: Bunkface, Masdo, Forceparkbois]Get Your tickets here. More info here.
Faouzia Live In KL – Concert (13 July @ Plenary Hall)Get tickets here.
Rossa Another Journey The Beginning – Extra Date Concert (13 July Zepp KL)Get tickets here.
The Sacred Riana Conjuring Live In KL – Magic Show (15 July @ Plenary Hall KLCC)Get tickets here.
Cigarettes After Sex Day 2 – Concert (16 July @ Zepp KL)Get tickets here.
Good Vibes Festival – Concert (21 – 23 July @ Sepang International Circuit) [Line Up: The 1975, The Kid Laroi, Dhruv, Sabrina Carpenter, Giveon]Get the tickets here.
Art Of Speed – Automotive Exhibition (29 & 30 July @ Maeps, Serdang)Get tickets here.
Muse: Will Of The People World Tour KL – Concert (29 July @ Bukit Jalil National Stadium)Get tickets here.
Kodaline: Live In Kuala Lumpur – Concert (7 & 8 September @ Zepp KL)Get tickets here.
Lauv: The Between Albums Tour in KL – Concert (7 September @ Plenary Hall KLCC)Get tickets here.
Wakin Chau – Concert (9 September @ Axiata Arena)More info here.
Mr. Big: The Big Finish – Concert (14 August @ Zepp KL)Get tickets here.
Bruno Major: Tour Of Planet Earth 2023 – Concert (20 August @ Zepp KL)Get tickets here.
Coldplay: Music Of The Spheres World Tour – Concert (22 November @ Bukit Jalil National Stadium)Get tickets here.

P/S: If you have any future events you want the world to know about, submit your suggestions to melissasu@therakyatpost.com.

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Malaysian Army Twitter ‘Hacked’ By SHIB Coin Trolls

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The Malaysian Army’s (TDM) official Twitter account was supposedly hacked and hijacked by cryptocurrency trolls on Wednesday night (11 November).

The incident was noticed by netizens who saw something strange going on with the @TenteraDarat official handle when its name was changed to “Shib” and its profile picture was replaced by an image of the Shiba Inu or the ‘SHIB coin’ cryptocurrency logo in the shape of a dog.
A posting was also made on the account, tagging the Twitter handle for CoinMarketCap – an online price tracking site for crypto assets.
(Credit: saifulhisyam via Twitter)
As of this morning, the army’s Twitter account was back to normal. However, that didn’t stop Malaysians from engaging in some spirited trolling themselves.
Besides being amused, people had questions for the Defence Ministry on the breach of one of their official social media channels.
Twitter @TenteraDarat kena hack? MilItary ni gais… Aduhh… Sikirishot gais.. SIRINSHOTTT pic.twitter.com/8sextAj2dd— ⚡ Sharg (@shagrasyiid) November 10, 2021
Macam mana akaun Twitter pertahanan negara boleh kena hack?! 🤦🏻♂ pic.twitter.com/tYFLHTIr3p— Syam immigrant (not expatriate) 🏴 (@saifulhisyam) November 10, 2021
Salam @MINDEFMalaysia. Serius la akaun @TenteraDarat kena hack ni.. pic.twitter.com/yVxYE2s1vP— The Mamu™ 🇲🇾 (@The_Mamu) November 10, 2021
Last September, Chief of the Malaysian Defence Force (CDF) General Tan Sri Affendi Buang denied allegations of a security breach within the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) when it was reported that around 1.4 million local company profiles were stolen from the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM) database and sold online.
Read More: More Data Leaks, This Time It’s SSM’s, For Sale Online
News headlines from 2020 also saw sensitive data belonging to the Malaysian Navy (TLDM) being leaked onto the Dark Web.
Read More: Sensitive TLDM Documents Hacked & Leaked On Dark Web

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Source:
What Makes Shiba Inu So Valuable?
No security breach, data leakage on MAF's end - Affendi


Malaysia’s Favourite Online Teacher Shares Tips To Setup Your Own Home-Studio

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As the Covid-19 pandemic put the world on pause, teachers like Cikgu Siti Faridah Matt went above and beyond to keep students engaged and educated by taking their classrooms into the 21st century.

Cikgu Siti Faridah became Malaysia’s favourite chemistry teacher with her viral educational videos streamed live from her very own home-studio during the Movement Control Order (MCO) period.
cikgu testing green screen studio di rumah.. PKP FASA KE 3 video cikgu dah jadi mcm ni. Agak2 kalau PKP FASA seterusnya rumah cikgu dah jadi studio tv3 agaknyaa.. pic.twitter.com/QGCqymjtgM— cikgu Siti Faridah (@SitiShare) April 17, 2020
From simple online lessons through video-conferencing applications like Zoom to having her very own YouTube channel with over 1,000 subscribers, the Cikgu says that she’s eager to discover new ways to best deliver lessons and provide students with alternative platforms to learn using her self-made videos.
(YouTube/Cikgu Siti Share)
Hoping to inspire educators and content creators alike to take up the digital-guru mantle, Cikgu Siti shares some of the gadgets she spent her own money on to set up her online-learning studio.
Video
The most important part of having any online video channel is to have a decent camera to capture quality images for the viewing audience.
Aside from teaching herself how to make and edit her own videos, Cikgu Siti had spent around RM430 on a high-definition (HD) webcam to use for her lessons.
HD webcams or “StreamCams” as some companies call em’, are compact and purpose-built for vlogging or live streaming content. Most high-end models are also able to capture 4K videos.
(Twitter/SitiShare/Instagram/faridahmatt)
Alternatively, creators can also turn a simple smartphone into a webcam by utilizing some free software off the internet and purchasing a handy tripod or selfie-stick to set it up.
(Twitter/SitiShare)
Audio
As any good gamer would tell you, having great audio is essential not only in daunting situations but above all, having clear communication with your teammates or even enemies.
For less than RM60 anyone can purchase quality and comfortable earphones or headphones that come with built-in microphones. Some of the larger more expensive “gaming headsets” even come complete with features to cancel out unwanted noise and sounds that may interrupt your play or video-calls.
But for those looking to keep one’s head clear of obstructions, Cikgu Siti suggests the use of professional stand-microphones or a portable clip-on mic that can be bought between RM30 to RM60.
(Twitter/SitiShare)
Lighting and background
The trick to making striking videos is to always have excellent lighting and an interesting setting to keep viewers engaged and entertained.
With the right equipment and a little bit of ingenuity, Cikgu Siti shares that anyone can transform even a dusty closet space into a fancy recording studio by the use of some portable studio lighting kits and a “green screen” canvas for less than RM400.
But for those looking to save some ringgits, some cheap LED lights or the more commonly used ring “diva” lights are terrific at illuminating your videos for as cheap as RM20.
(Twitter/Instagram/SitiShare/faridahmatt)

By the looks of it, Cikgu Siti had spent roughly RM4,000 to complete her home-studio setup. Be sure to check out her full shopping list on Twitter.
Cikgu kongsikan sedikit anrara device yang cikgu penah beli untuk studio cikgu. Tak termasuk second monitor, kain hijau dan cable2. pic.twitter.com/4140Js6ooZ— cikgu Siti Faridah (@SitiShare) November 18, 2020

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Source:
Labour Day: Cikgu Siti Faridah makes Chemistry come alive
Wow, Check Out This Teacher Using A Green Screen For Her Online Classes


This M’sian Ice Sport Olympic Hopeful Traded In Her Skates To Build A Tech Company

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Malaysia may be familiar with Kimberly Wan for being in Malaysia’s Book of Records as the “Youngest Female to Achieve the Highest Skating Level in Malaysia” at the age of 12, a record she still holds today.

15 years later, the same Kimberly Wan is blazing her own trail in tech as Co-Founder and CEO of Otomate ME, a communications automation software-as-a-service (SaaS) company that’s making waves in Malaysia’s tech industry.
But how did an Olympic hopeful in figure skating go from flips, loops and axels to clicks, bounce rates and pushing messages?
Life, of course!

TRP spoke to Kimberly about life, and how at only 27 years, the determination she’s learned as a nationally acclaimed athlete ultimately paved her way as one of the few women in Malaysia making a name for themselves in the tech world.
Woman in a male-dominated industry

In Malaysia, women make up only 35% of the technology workforce. Leadership roles may account for even less than that.
Boston Consulting Group (BCG) research has found that companies with more women in their workforces and leadership teams show better performance. And a more vibrant technology sector can help national economies grow.
When we asked Kimberly why there are so few women in the industry, she explains there is no specific answer aside from it being a ‘complex and multi-faceted issue’.
She says, at times it’s sexism – referring to an incident in Japan where medical schools admit to discriminating against women.
Other times, it’s a culture whereby males are favoured to pursue higher education and women are only considered if there are leftover funds from the family.
If I had to scale down why there are so few women in the industry, I’d attribute it to the different value system, lack of higher education, and lack of opportunity.Kimberly Wan to TRP
So, how does Kimberly feel working in a so-called male-dominated industry?
“Neutral. Key thing is to ensure results are delivered, regardless of the industry I’m in,” she tells us in a very “matter-of-factly” manner.
Even in an industry that’s entirely different from the world of sports she grew up in, the spirit of sportsmanship for fairness and persistence still ring true.
 Azlan (Otomate Me’s other co-founder and CTO) and I have a very nice split where he manages the technical aspects, and I manage the commercial aspects.Kimberly Wan to TRP
Structured and goal-driven beginnings
Kimberly figure skating in 2004 (L) Kimberly playing for the Malaysian Women’s National Ice Hockey Team (R)
No doubt Kimberly’s childhood differed from most of us.
She started figure skating at the age of six and spent 21 of her 27 years being committed and excelling in ice sports (figure skating and hockey).
 Life would start early at 6 in the morning. Going to school. Tuition after school. Getting picked up and eating dinner in the car while on the way for training from 8 till midnight.Kimberly Wan to TRP
In high school, Kimberly was home-schooled for 3 ½ days and spent the rest of the time training.
From an early age, Kimberly put in a lot of work and sacrifice socially with friends, and forget the luxury of sleeping in!
Life, or something like it
(Credit: kimmelz1 / Instagram)
Now that life is a little less about training, Kim still finds the time to break a sweat exercising in her free time.
I think sport has always been part of me and I will always be a part of sports. It has taught lessons when it comes to discipline and focus when it comes to setting goals and achieving them.Kimberly Wan to TRP
She also likes to read, though a lot of the books nowadays are related to business,  principles or self-help ones.
As if running her own company doesn’t already take a lot of her time, Kimberly is also a home baker she describes as a “side hustle”.
“I make really nice fudgy brownies.”
But life isn’t always as sweet.
Believing in yourself can be hard. It takes time to build confidence in your craft and in your skills.Kimberly Wan to TRP
She wasn’t talking about her brownies though.
“This is something I’ve had to work on. When training, be it in figure skating or ice hockey, just out of the sheer number of years I’ve been in the sport, it’s easy to understand that progress takes time.
“Without a benchmark when it comes to business, having started early, it was a challenge to know industry benchmarks and how to navigate around that. Things have since improved as years have passed and I’ve developed better business acumen.”
Automate yourself
Recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award from Monash University, Malaysia
Kimberly’s strong sports acumen may have translated well into business, but many of us weren’t nationally acclaimed athletes with that kind of grit engrained in us.
For someone that runs a company that helps businesses increase productivity and reduce the margin for human error, Kimberly’s advice for those starting their own company or in a new industry is the opposite with her saying it’s okay to make mistakes along the way.
She tells us that people will be quick to offer their advice but from experience, not all advice will be beneficial and we have to pick and choose. If the advice is not helpful, it’s better to thank the person for their sharing but not necessary to take it in and use it.
Don’t get too hung up on what everyone else’s opinions are and focus on what you’re trying to achieve. Make those mistakes along the way, because you will come out better and stronger.Kimberly Wan to TRP

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How Uniqlo Malaysia Is Stepping Up Sustainability Efforts

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Although fashion is generally thought to be wasteful and damaging to the environment, Japanese brand Uniqlo has been working towards their sustainability goals for over 20 years, and are planning to up the ante even more to meet their sustainability goals by 2030.

This of course also applies to Uniqlo Malaysia, which has already has key sustaibility programmes in place.
As one of the leading global apparel companies, we see it as our duty to proactively respond to society’s needs and help resolve pressing environmental and social issues.CEO of Uniqlo Malaysia & Singapore, Yuki Yamada
As such, their two-pronged approach includes making good clothes that are better for the environment and society.
Sustainable manufacturing of clothing
The first key initiative is to make good clothes that are better for the environment.
This is done through reducing greenhouse gas emissions from electricity at all stores and offices, with the use of renewable energy certificates and switching to LED lighting. They also target that 100% of carbon emission from electricity will be offset by 2023.
Uniqlo stores now use less electricity, among other sustainable initiatives.(Credit: TRP)
They are also finding creative ways to use recycled materials in their products, mainly through using recycled material, and even upcycling denim cut-offs as coin pouches. In fact, the 2022 Spring/Summer collection will be made with 15% polyester from recycled PET bottles.
The brand is also working towards zero waste by reducing plastic, paper, and clothing waste. This includes reducing material used for deliveries, switching to friendlier items such as paper bags, as well as recycling and upcycling fabric material and clothing.
Reusing jeans scraps to be made into new products.(Credit: Uniqlo Malaysia)
Not only that, they also contribute to WWF-Malaysia to support marine conservation and biodiversity protection efforts.
Being good for the people and society
Their sustainability plans extend past just the manufacturing process and includes giving back to the community and society as well.
In recent years, they have donated Uniqlo products to frontliners during the Covid-19 pandemic, to victims of the Klang Valley floods, to the homeless and B40 population, to girls and women facing period poverty, to patients facing heart surgery, and also people with disabilities.
Uniqlo providing donations to those in need.(Credit: Uniqlo Malaysia)
They also recently committed to promote a more diverse and inclusive culture within the company structure, aiming to encourage more female leadership and empowerment, as well as making sure People with Disabilities (PWD) are given a fair chance to succeed in their career.
Further information on Uniqlo’s parent company Fast Retailing’s 2030 sustainable targets and action plan can be seen here, while more information about Uniqlo Sustainability can be seen here.

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Malaysian Streetwear Collaboration For Palliative Care

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A lot goes on in the process of caring and providing comfort for those with serious life-limiting illnesses. There are few unsung heroes who strive to provide palliative care in our nation, most notably, Hospis Malaysia.

In efforts to make the world a better place one t-shirt at a time, Malaysia’s very own Pestle & Mortar Clothing (PMC), has taken a step forward. The brand popularised as “The Pride of Southeast Asia”, kicks off their latest campaign; PMC x Hospis Malaysia: In Support of Palliative Care.
More than 55,000 Malaysians in need of palliative care
What is palliative care though? It is a healthcare approach that improves the quality of life for people with life threatening illnesses, through prevention and relief of pain and suffering resulting from the illness.
With a team of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and occupational therapists, Hospis Malaysia’s mission is to ensure that anyone who suffers from a serious life-limiting illness such as cancer, organ failure or late stage dementia, continues to live with quality of life. Through compassion and dedication, they work around the clock to ensure each patient lives out their days with dignity.
Though there are patients they are unable to reach, the team teaches and trains others, extending their care as far as they can. Hospis Malaysia believes that no patient, nor their family should be left suffering from the physical and emotional effects of a serious illness.

PMC’s collaboration with a specialised charitable organisation such as Hospis Malaysia aims to drive awareness for palliative care amongst our youth. Simultaneously, the brand is also gunning for funds for the initiative via a combination of PMC’s trademark merchandise and wholesome educational content.
The collaboration has birthed two exclusive t-shirt designs and a dressed stuffed toy elephant, launched on 5th April 2021. The designs were launched in conjunction with Palliative Care Month, though these hotcakes will only be available on a pre-order basis for one week.
The PMC x Hospis Malaysia: In Support of Palliative Care merchandise are available for pre-order from 5th April to 11th April 2021 via PMC’s official website with worldwide shipping. All proceeds from sales will be donated to Hospis Malaysia in support of palliative care.

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How To Get Rid Of Unwanted Items Responsibly In M’sia

It’s the time of the year where you look around your house and decide to do a little lot of tidying up.
You’re moving things around, cleaning, decluttering, and all of a sudden you have 10 giant bags of unwanted items.
But wait! Don’t toss them out! Did you know that you can actually donate a lot of the stuff you hoard? And even better yet, some charities come to you to pick up larger items!
Most of these items will go straight to the landfill and be wasted.(Credit: Facebook)
So instead of putting all your stuff on the curb or under a tree, which is additional waste and work, why not spread a little joy and donate it to the people who will use it?
1. Drop off
It’s funny how you can walk by or see a charity box almost every day, but when it becomes time to actually donate stuff, you draw a blank at where you’ve seen these bins last.
Please treat these boxes with respect and do NOT use them as rubbish bins!(Credit: Google Maps)
Well, the good news is that the fantastic people at Zero Waste Malaysia have put together an amazing custom Google Map that lists available charity boxes, recycling centers, and thrift shops for you to drop off your unwanted stuff.
Use the tab button on the left to filter by what you need.

In addition to that, the map also includes locations of eco-friendly shops, bulk stores, repair services and traditional wet markets to make your zero waste journey a smoother process.
2. Freecycling
For all assorted, random goods that you don’t really need but aren’t broken, the best bet is to post in a freecycling group near you.
There are plenty of Beli Nothing Project groups on Facebook, so just look one up in your geographical location. Many BNPers are more than happy to pick up from you or arrange some other form of collection.
There’s a group for wherever you are.(Credit: Facebook)
3. Yard / Garage sale
This is especially useful if you’re moving house. Yard sales are extremely common in Western countries, where they put up signages inviting people to visit their house.
Unwanted items are put in the yard, allowing people to come and choose what they want.(Credit: TRP)
For Malaysians, this may seem like a strange custom, but you can easily make it a general open house and invite everyone you know for more fun! (Just make sure you let people know in advance.)
Even if you live in an apartment unit without outside space, you can still host an “open-house sale” by using sticker tags to price only the items you want to sell.
It’s as simple as using a sticky note or just a piece of paper!(Credit: TRP)
4. Pick up for Large Furniture & Bulky Items
The Community Recycle for Charity (CRC) organization, which has donation bins, will also come and pick up large furniture from you! However, do make sure that the furniture is still in good, usable condition.
Just Whatsapp them a picture of your item and send it to 017-3638100.
There are many different charities that do pick-up as well, such as the Pertubuhan Amal Seri Sinar Kuala Lumpur and Selangor (PASS).(Credit: PASS)

We hope this list helps ease the stress of spring cleaning! Let us know what other tips you have for donating your unused items on our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!


Refugee Children Are Using Whatsapp To Attend Classes And Do Their Homework During This MCO

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On regular days, refugee and stateless children without an IC attend their classes at Yayasan Chow Kit, a 24-hour crisis and drop in centre providing meals, activities, therapy, case management, and educational programmes.
These at-risk children are cared for through this NGO, keeping them off the streets and giving them opportunities at education.
Now that the movement control (MCO) is in place and extended, what happens to the children who rely on these NGOs on a daily basis?
Ananti Rajasingam, COO of Yayasan Chow Kit (YCK), spoke to us about how the needy are faring now without the usual help that they receive from the NGO.
Our teaching staff are conducting lessons over Whatsapp, and the children still enjoy doing their homework. For them, it’s an escape from what’s happening.Ananti Rajasingam to TRP

Yet there’s no doubt that the MCO has affected these children and their families severely. Many of the at-risk families are mostly in the B40 group and below, earning daily wages. With the MCO in place, many have lost their jobs and the little bit of income they’ve had.
Ananti notes that some of the children are going through depression at this time because of the difficult financial issue their family is facing, which is why they enjoy the regular routine of learning and doing homework, even if lessons are conducted through Whatsapp on a shared family phone.
Despite the hardships these children are facing now, they still would like to keep their education a priority if possible.
To relieve the burden on the children and their families, YCK has done what they could to help these families. Thanks to generous donors, they have managed to secure essential groceries for around 100 families, pay the rental for families who no longer have an income, and foot the hospital bills for mothers who are giving birth during this time.

Their donations vary, according to Ananti, depending on whether it’s cash donations or donations in kind. With more funds, the NGO can do more for more families.
Originally, YCK kept their centre open as a shared pantry, allowing families in need to walk in and pick up whatever they needed.
However, they realized that the MCO meant travelling was difficult, especially for refugees and stateless families, who were more afraid of being rounded up by the police. Since then, YCK have worked with other volunteer organisations to hand-deliver essentials directly to these families instead.

Ananti states that any help is appreciated, especially during this tough time. The children would appreciate additional data plans to complete their homework, while the NGO can always do with more essential food items or cash donations. Even after the MCO, volunteering at the YCK shelters would allow the NGO to refocus on the children’s future.
To find out what essentials they need, you can email admin@yck.org.my or contact them on their Yayasan Chow Kit Facebook page.

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Two Children Severely Injured In Kluang Car Crash Involving Alleged Drunk Driver

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A one-year-old infant and a six-year-old child are in a medically induced coma after sustaining severe injuries following a hit-and-run accident where the vehicle they were in was hit by a pickup truck driven by an allegedly drunk driver at KM57 Jalan Batu Pahat, Mersing last Saturday evening.

The infant, Nur Hana Humaira suffered a brain haemorrhage and an injury to her hip bone while her sister, Nur Aisyah Humaira, 6, also suffered a brain haemorrhage and a swollen jaw bone.
Both of my children are ‘put to sleep’ and have to undergo a scan test, if there is severe bleeding on the brain, they will undergo surgery.Mohd Yusof Othman, One of the victim and father of the two victims
Their mother, Faridah Hassan, who is a teacher at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Ulu Dengar, was also injured in the crash.
(Credit: Harian Metro)
All of them were taken to the Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom Hospital (HEBHK) for treatment and the two children were taken into the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital.
Accident in Kluang
Recently, a 25-second video of an accident between an orange Nissan Navara and a blue Toyota Vios went viral on social media.
Both vehicles were travelling in the same direction and the Navara was seen recklessly driven, causing it to ram into the Vios in front, resulting in an accident.
The Vios driver and also the father of the two children, Mohd Yusof Othman, 34, lost control of the car and hit a tree on the left side of the road.
My vehicle hit a tree and spun and after that my vision was blurred.I saw my two children being helped by the crowd, but I didn’t see my wife at that time. As soon as I woke up from fainting, I was already on the hospital bed (HEBHK).Mohd Yusof Othman
(Credit: Harian Metro)
Mohd Yusof was chatting with his wife and their two children on their way home to Felda Kahang Timur when the sudden collision happened.
I am quite upset because accidents like this (due to drunk drivers) have happened frequently, the offenders should be punished according to their actions.Mohd Yusof Othman
Reckless Driver Arrested
The driver of the Nissan Navara was arrested by the police from the Investigation and Traffic Enforcement Division of the Kluang District Police Headquarters (IPD).
Kluang District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Bahrin Md Noh said that the 29-year-old suspect is believed to be drunk and his blood sample has been taken at HEBHK for a toxicology examination.
The suspect’s urine test came back negative for drugs.
With no previous criminal record, the suspect was remanded and the case is classified under Section 42 (1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

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PKR To Announce High Profile GE15 Candidates Today

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PKR is set to announce its high profile candidates to contest in the 15th General Election (GE15).

According to party deputy president, Rafizi Ramli, these high profile candidates would include prolific figures from various backgrounds.
The announcement is scheduled for 2pm today at the party’s headquarters in Petaling Jaya.
Many are eagerly waiting to see where the party’s top leaders would stand in GE15, namely former vice president Nurul Izzah Anwar and former president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
As for party president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, he will be heading over to Perak from Negri Sembilan to contest the Tambun seat. The incumbent Port Dickson MP is set to face Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu of Bersatu who is the parliamentary seat’s incumbent.
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E-Scooters & E-Bikes May Be Banned On Roads & You Might Soon Need A License To Ride Them

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E-scooters and e-bikes fall under the category of micromobility vehicles, also known as personal mobility devices, which is currently unregulated.

In short, they are exactly what they sound like: scooters and bikes that are attached with an electronic motor so that the user does not need to manually operate the device, or which adds on to the speed generated by the user.
These devices are quickly gaining popularity as they are relatively cheap, lightweight, and eco-friendly without the use of petrol. While it was never intended to be used on motorways, there has been increasing reports of such devices on the roads, posing a risk to both the user and regular drivers.
In fact, some of these motorized vehicles are so powerful that they match the speed of usual motorcycles, clocking in at maximum speeds of over 100km/hr.

Because of this, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong has announced that there will soon be proper regulations on the use of micromobility vehicles in the country once the Road Transport (Amendment) Bill 2020 comes into effect after it is presented at the Senate later this month.
The new amendment will require mandatory registration and driving license if appropriate and will be banned from public roads.
Currently, there is no insurance protection for micromobility vehicles or valid driving license required to operate such vehicles. This means that in the event of any accidents, all parties involved will not have any kind of protection from their insurance providers for medical injuries or repair costs.
Wee notes that such vehicles pose a hazard on roads and the amendment is a preventive measure to avoid any future tragedies.

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Xiaomi Malaysia Launches Online Photography Contest In Collaboration With The National Art Gallery

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Yes, 2020 has been a difficult year for us all, and likely the most difficult year of our lives for some. A year ago, no-one could have foreseen the physical, emotional, and economic toll that this terrible virus has unleashed upon the world.

Interestingly, it is this same reality that has taught us to appreciate the little things in life. It forced us to slow down and allowed us the chance to enjoy the everyday things that we took for granted, and sometimes missed altogether.
Like spending time with loved ones, watching our children grow, and smelling the roses.
This same sentiment is shared with Xiaomi Malaysia who seeks to capture the positive moments in our lives amidst these unprecedented times in their latest online photography contest.
In collaboration with The National Art Gallery of Malaysia, the “Good Things During Bad Times” campaign is meant to remind each other to look on the brighter side of life.
In these challenging times, building positivity is pivotal to the emotional wellbeing within the society.Amerrudin Ahmad, Director General of the National Art Gallery of Malaysia
“Good Things During Bad Times” is open to all Malaysians
Just because we’re going through a hard time, that doesn’t mean we can’t appreciate the good moments. (Credit: Unsplash)
The contest, which runs from now until 31 December 2020, encourages all Malaysians to participate by submitting entries on their own respective Instagram profiles.
Entries will be judged by a panel of professional curators from the National Art Gallery.
The top 25 entries will be announced on Thursday, 6 January 2021, and the winning photographs will be exhibited on the National Art Gallery’s official website.
Winners will also receive prizes from Xiaomi, such as the new Mi 10T Pro, and the Mi Portable Photo Printer.
We are honoured and excited to be partnering with a prestigious organisation such as The National Art Gallery of Malaysia. We believe that this collaboration will not just inspire creativity among Malaysians but also bring everyone closer through the storytelling of each photography entry.Nicolas Shi, General Manager of Xiaomi, Malaysia and Singapore
How To Participate In “Good Things During Bad Times”
Just take a photo, upload it to Instagram, and plug in the hashtags! (Credit: Unsplash)
To participate, all you have to do is take an original photo that best reflects the meaning of the contest theme.
Then, post the photo on your Instagram feed, using the contest’s hashtags in the caption. Don’t forget to set your profile to “Public”! Otherwise, Xiaomi won’t be able to take a look at your entry.
The hashtags are: #GoodThingsDuringBadTimes  #Xiaomi  #Mi10TSeries  #BalaiSeniNegara #PowerYourCreativity
Finally, Like and Follow Xiaomi Malaysia’s Official Instagram Account.
TIP: If you’re using a Xiaomi device to take your photo, you should ensure that the Xiaomi watermark is enabled before taking the photo.
All Malaysians aged 13 and above are eligible to take part. Participants can use any camera or mobile phone to take their photo. Submissions will only be accepted through posting a photo on your Instagram feed, no Instagram Stories, and all submissions must include the contest’s official hashtags mentioned above.
There are no limit to the number of entries a single participant may submit, and winners will be notified through their Instagram account with the winning submissions.
Again, winners will be announced on Thursday, 6 January 2021.
For more information on the competition, please refer to Xiaomi’s terms and conditions, or follow Xiaomi’s official Facebook or Instagram pages for other updates.

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We tried Cadburyâ€™s Durian chocolate & itâ€™s actually not bad! [Review]

While durian season is nearing its end, the madness for the King of Fruits continues with Cadbury Malaysia’sDURIAN CHOCOLATE.

Credit: TRP

Now, durian chocolate is not a new concept. The abominable cocoa-fruit combination has been seen on shelves of numerous shops near tourist spots and at airports.

Credit: Shopee.my

This is, however, one of the rare few occasions where the durian
chocolate is sold nationwide.
Released for the Merdeka & Malaysia Day season, Cadburyâ€™s Dairy Milk Durian chocolate is supposed to be a celebration of local flavours.
Available only in Malaysia, Cadbury’s second localised limited-edition flavour also comes in gift boxes bearing Datuk Latâ€™s famous cartoon illustrations.

 Credit: TRP

With the background settled, letâ€™s dive in!
Packaging
No doubt, the Lat illustrations is a big win!

 Credit: TRP

Itâ€™s fun, nostalgic and oh-so-Malaysian.
On the durian chocolate itself, the iconic fruit proudly wears a crown while a â€œMade Especially for Malaysiaâ€ tag sits at the corner.
Besides that, we like the jagged golden sides that kinda
resembles a durianâ€™s prickly thorns!

 Credit: TRP

Unwrapping
Hereâ€™s where things start getting interesting.

 Credit: TRP

The moment the plastic pops open, you immediately get a
whiff of durian aroma thatâ€™s similar to the smell of dodol.
The chocolate itself looks rather nondescript, except for
the rice crispies popping out at the back.

 Credit: TRP

Taste
To be perfectly honest, the durian chocolate isnâ€™t the best.
Nor is it the worst.
Kinda Sorta GIF from Kinda GIFs

The durian flavour is more of an aftertaste and eating it was
a dÃ©jÃ  vu of noshing on the durian popcorn snack that was all the rage back in primary
schools.

Credit: haniprecious.blogspot.com

As one of TRPâ€™s writers said, â€œI wouldnâ€™t actually go out of
my way to buy this. But if itâ€™s in front of me, Iâ€™d eat it.â€
Verdict : 3/5
If youâ€™d like to get your hands on the durian chocolate and try it yourself, you better hurry as the aromatic chocolate bar is only available until 30th September.
Cadburyâ€™s Dairy Milk Durian chocolate can be found in major
hypermarkets and supermarkets at RM8.50. The limited-edition gift set with Latâ€™s
drawings are sold exclusively on Shopee for RM42.90.

 Credit: TRP

Let us know if youâ€™ve tried the durian chocolate, or planning to try it, on TRPâ€™s Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!


Mâ€™sian student designed bag using recycled plastic bottles to help us save the environment

You know it, we know it, everyone knows it.
The planet is in danger.
Global Warming GIF from Globalwarming GIFs

Plastic waste is poisoning the environment as we navigate through the climate crisis upon us.
While we try our best to lessen the impact by saying no to plastic straws and single use plastics, a Malaysian student took it one step furtherâ€¦
She designed a bag using recycled plastic bottles!

Credit: Spritzer/Facebook

Armed with 9.5 litre plastic water bottles bases, 20-year-old college student Ang Li Qin created a chic sling bag that she calls â€œScum-bagâ€.
The clever pun perfectly encapsulates how oneâ€™s scummy trash
can be transformed into a fashionable treasure.
Li Qin told Malay Mail that she wanted to create something helpful that anyone can use. Hence, a portable and super useful bag!

Ang Li Qin with the “Scum-bag”(Credit: Spritzer via Malay Mail)

Weâ€™re not the only ones impressed by Li Qinâ€™s creativity
though. Her trendy creation also caught the eye of the Spritzer Natural Mineral
Water â€œEco Art Competitionâ€ where she won the GRAND PRIZE!
Clap Clapping GIF from Clap GIFs

Li Qinâ€™s â€œScum-bagâ€ landed her the top spot in the competition along with RM5000 and an internship with the water manufacturing and distribution company.
Turns out, the Eco Art Competition took place earlier this month for Malaysian university and college students to recycle and upcycle Spritzer mineral water bottles in the most creative and functional way.
Looking at the finalistsâ€™ work on Spritzerâ€™s Facebook page, it’s clear that Malaysian students are SUPER creative. Hereâ€™s some our favourite inventions:
The Plastic Throne

 Credit: Spritzer/Facebook

A Capsule Vending Machine

 Credit: Spritzer/Facebook

This Cute Little Terrarium

  Credit: Spritzer/Facebook

Use Plastic to Organise Your Plastics

 Credit: Spritzer/Facebook

A Pretty DIY Nightlight

 Credit: Spritzer/Facebook

Congratulations to Li Qin for her impressive win!
Let us know which recycled and upcycled plastic bottle design is your favourite on TRPâ€™s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!


Come Join Me If You Think It’s Profitable, Uncle Kentang Responds To Critics

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There is a Chinese saying that genuine gold fears no fire (真金不怕紅爐火), which means a person of integrity can withstand severe tests.

Likewise, social activist Kuan Chee Heng or Uncle Kentang, as he is affectionately known, remains steadfast in his lifelong mission to help others.
But cultures of mistrust, challenging environments where staff are overstretched, and high-risk delivery models (such as humanitarian emergencies) are taking a severe toll.
Most recently, critics disputed the charity work done by Uncle Kentang by saying he is only interested in making a profit.
There has also been controversy over how Uncle Kentang manages donation funds from the public.
Some said he has not been transparent, while others are unhappy that Kuan, a ‘kafir’ (non-Muslims), is ‘meddling’ in burial services for Muslims.
jom baca thread penipuan2 @KuanCheeHeng1 @ Uncle Kentang terhadap umat islam yg mana belum sedar sila lah hadam baik2.. urusan umat islam biar org islam uruskan, dia ni kafir xperlu sentuh urusan jenazah org islam.. korg pernah dengar tawaran van ambulans Rm1 dia? hancinnnggg.!!! pic.twitter.com/RnndjSDHxI— MieyShafa (@mieyshafa) July 16, 2022

Meanwhile, some said it is unfair to jump to conclusions based on race and religion.
READ MORE: Stranded Pilgrims To Get Their Money Back, Tour Agents Arrested By Police
Uncle kentang ada,scam orang islam guna modal urusan jenazah tu.Cina kan ? Babi betul cina jahat.Boleh cakap camtu ?— emangNem (@faizemang) July 10, 2022
Maybe Many Do Not Know
In response to the increasing pubic scrutiny, Kuan said his critics are welcome to approach him to find out the truth.
He also encourages his critics to join his team in their day-to-day charity work.
In an interview with TRP, he claimed that some of his detractors are bereavement care service providers who are unhappy with him.
Kuan said their business had been affected by the affordable services provided by him and his team.
Kuan Chee Heng continues to show what being Malaysian is all about – this time by offering 'van jenazah' services for a mere RM1. His motto: "Let's make Malaysia better." pic.twitter.com/Rsx0zfFFjl— Haresh Deol 🇲🇾  (@HareshDeol) April 5, 2018
Dari FB Afiz Ayub. Uncle kentang layan jenazah yang berbayar je. Kalau jenazah tak mampu diorang tak layan & akan pass ke team Amal AA. Team Amal AA ni memang provide servis pengurusan jenazah percuma. Tanpa kutipan derma. Duit dari poket Afiz Ayub dan rakan rakan rapatnya.— Blank 🇲🇾 (@talikecapi) October 7, 2021
Kuan said he and his team never solicited money from the public and emphasised that people donated willingly.
He added that surplus donations for a particular case are always used for other cases, which happen daily.
A Thankless Job
Kuan describes the list of scenarios that require help as endless.
People are being evicted because they can pay rent. People also have no money to pay for food, kids’ school allowance, motorcycle instalment and whatnot. Sometimes we also give pocket money to affected families and also to volunteers.Uncle Kentang on the list of humanitarian emergencies that inevitably requires money,
He welcomed his critics to join him in his philanthropy work and even take over from him if they wanted to help.
Kuan said he would be happy to show them the barrage of SOS messages he received on his phone daily.
At the same time, he added that the biggest challenge is to build a more sustainable way to run the activities and maintain public trust.
It is difficult to garner sufficient and continuous funding for our kind of work.  People always expect help to be there for them.Uncle Kentang on managing the collection of donations from the public.
READ MORE: Uncle Kentang Answers Call For Funeral Arrangement At 3AM, A Mother Passed Away At A Leading Port Dickson Hotel

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Afdlin Lodges Police Report Against PKR Election Committee After Loss

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Actor cum director Afdlin Shauki, who failed in his bid to win the PKR Setiawangsa division chief post had lodged a police report against the party’s election committee (JPP) for failing to properly manage the recently concluded PKR election.

Speaking to the press after lodging the report at the Pudu police station, Afdlin claimed elements of fraud existed during the party polls.
Afdlin also claimed that several complaints had been lodged to the JPP with regards to the flaws during the party election but no action nor feedback was given.
“Many of the things they did raise suspicion and were clearly wrong,” Afdlin was quoted as saying by FMT.
“We’ve made a report to the committee before, but they did not respond… so we lodged a police report today for them to investigate the matter,” he added.
The popular comedian among others, claimed that there was a significant difference between the ballot announced by the JPP and the actual number of votes at the Setiawangsa polling station.
“The number of votes announced at the polling station was 750, however after the voting process ended, the number of official votes updated in the JPP system was 528, a very significant difference as 222 votes lost just like that,” he added.
Afdlin cited several other discrepancies which he said favours certain candidates.
In the recently concluded PKR election, Afdlin lost the race for Setiawangsa division chief, losing to its incumbent Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad who retained the post with a slim 110 vote’s majority.

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Drunk Driver Crashes Into Mosque In Penang

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A 23-year-old man believed to be drunk lost control of his car and crashed into the gates of Masjid Jamek Tengah Berapi in Bukit Mertajam.
What you need to know: The accident happened at 2.30am on 12 July, resulting in the driver being taken to the Bukit Mertajam Hospital for treatment. The car was badly damaged by the impact, with the windshield shattered. Initial investigation found that he was driving under the influence of alcohol, though a urine test revealed no illegal substances.
Why it matters: Drunk driving has been a big issue in Malaysia for quite a while. After highly sensationalised road accidents, the Transport Ministry will be amending DUI laws to carry heavier punishments.

Transport Ministry Plans To Amend DUI Laws On Next Parliament Sitting

Read more:Transport Ministry Plans To Amend DUI Laws On Next Parliament Sitting [TRP]No Safe Alcohol Limit For Driving, Expert Says [TRP]Pemandu mabuk langgar tembok masjid [Bernama]

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Why Subtitles And Closed Captioning Are Not Just For The Hard Of Hearing

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I’ve noticed in recent years that I’ve been watching TV shows and movies with the subtitles* on, and they aren’t even programmes in another language!

It’s come to a point where if I don’t watch a programme without subtitles turned on – I feel a little lost.
Turns out, having subtitles on is a good thing despite these kinds of memes.

And the reasons go far beyond being hard of hearing too.
So, who’s with me on #TeamSubtitle?
*Subtitles are intended for viewers who can’t understand the language being spoken while closed captioning is intended for viewers who can’t hear the audio. For the purpose of this article, I’m referring to both as ‘subtitles’.
It allows you to concentrate better on a show
Listening requires extra resources on the brain to work hard to process information.
For some, it’s hard enough to have a conversation with one person so imagine watching a long movie and trying to keep up with a storyline involving several people.
This is especially helpful for shows with fictional names, or strong accents.
For journalist Sean Neumann of the online publication The Outline, subtitles saved his relationship with Game Of Thrones by allowing him to read and process the huge amounts of information in each episode.
It takes you away from your phone
(Credit: Dean Moriarty / Pixabay)
In line with how it makes you concentrate better on what you’re watching, one of life’s biggest distractions these days is the mobile phone.
How many of us have been guilty of scrolling social media or chatting on WhatsApp while watching a show? 🙋
Once you rely on subtitles, you won’t be turning to your phone as much anymore.
Ever notice how when watching a foreign language movie that requires subtitles you tend to pay attention more, simply because you have to to understand.
It’s a similar concept which I find very useful. Like reading a book!
It introduces you to new content
Subtitles in videos helps turn you on to new content on social media.
Social Media Manager Christina McDermott tells the Guardian that 85% of Facebook videos are watched without sound and thus with subtitles.
From an industry perspective, she says adding subtitles can hook in casual viewers.
Christina says, “we’re always looking for the ‘thumb-stoppers’ – bits of short video that will make people stop what they’re doing and watch until the end.”
Her explanation sounds about right, because how many of us have turned into fans of various content creators on Social Media that we never thought we’d follow, but somehow through the clever use of subtitles, here we are.
It links to increased levels of literacy
(Credit: Annushka Ahuja / Pexels)
Watching subtitled videos have huge benefits for children and adults as it can help boost reading, comprehension and language skills.
Research also shows that subtitles can create automatic reading behaviour.
A key finding of eye-tracking research on subtitling shows that viewers who have some decoding ability – even partial letter-to-sound correspondence – cannot ignore subtitles and will exhibit automatic reading responses.

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Chinese Gangsters Offer RMB 1 Million Bounty For Malaysians Who Escaped Slave Labour In Laos

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Chinese gangsters in Laos are apparently seeing red after four Malaysian “piglets” (slave labour) escaped their clutches.

The Malaysians had made their way from Laos’s Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ).
After going through many hardships, they finally took a flight back to Malaysia and arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) recently,
Sin Chew reported that after their escape was discovered, the Chinese gangsters placed a bounty of RMB1mil (RM650,000) on their heads, dead or alive.
The Malaysians escaped with the assistance of the Malaysian embassy in Laos.
They were also aided by the Laos police and Malaysian non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including Malaysian Community Crime Care Association (MCCC).
Former Inspector-General of Police and Malaysia Community Crime Care (MCCC) president Tan Sri Musa Hassan thanked the Malaysian government for making the rescue possible.

Lured By Fake Job Ads
According to a pair of brothers surnamed Tan, they had been working as bartenders in Singapore.
They lost their jobs due to the Covid-19 epidemic and were forced to return to China.
After seeing an advertisement for high-paying financial jobs on Facebook, they applied.
Around March, an agent brought him into Thailand through smuggling routes and then taken into the GTSEZ.
After arriving, they realised gangsters had recruited them to work as phone and internet scammers.
READ MORE: [Watch] Trainee Teacher Dies In Thailand Due To Online Dating Scam, Father Tells Young Malaysians To Be Down-To-Earth
Nightmare Begins
He said their brothers received a salary of RMB7,000 (RM4,556) in the first month of work, and they stopped getting paid after that.
They asked to be allowed back to Malaysia but were told by their handler that they must each compensate RMB500,000 (RM325,463).
Otherwise, they would be sold to other syndicates.
Left with no choice, they kept working hard.
Apart from calling their father in Penang every few days to report their safety, they secretly asked their father for help.
At the same time, they asked their local friends from Laos for help to help them escape.
The Great Escape
After several months of planning, the two brothers and two other Malaysians hatched a plot to escape.
With the assistance of friends in Laos, they dug a tunnel to escape from the work site and were taken away by friends on motorcycles.
One of them was nearly caught as he was on a motorcycle.
A gangster pulled on his clothes, and he was almost pulled down, but fortunately, he finally escaped.
The four stayed at their home for a few days with the help of their friend.
Meanwhile, his father sought help from Datuk Hishammuddin Hashim, secretary-general of the Malaysian International Humanitarian Organization.
The father also sought the assistance of Musa.
Musa and Hishammuddin then contacted the Malaysian embassy in Laos and the Laos police to ensure the Malaysians returned home safely.
Rescue Fund For Trafficked Slave Labourers
The MCCC and the Malaysian International Humanitarian Organization have jointly established a foundation to assist Malaysians trapped in Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar to return home.
Musa said that the Malaysian trafficked slave labourers stranded abroad are currently divided into two groups.
One group consists of those whose family members can afford to pay the immigration fines and travel expenses, and the other group cannot pay any fees.
He said that for the latter, it is necessary to rely on the public’s cooperation and donate money to assist them.
In addition, they will submit a memorandum to the United Nations office in Putrajaya.
They demand that the relevant United Nations agencies pay attention to human trafficking in Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos.
READ MORE: Malaysian Slave Labourers In Myanmar Saw Woman From KL Who Went Missing Five Months Ago
Malaysians Stuck In Crime Paradise
Radio Free Asia (RFA), a United States government-funded private non-profit news service, reported that some 700 Malaysians are stuck and held for ransom in Laos.
The victims had been lured by casino jobs in GTSEZ but were forced to work as online scammers instead.
Citing former workers who escaped, RFA said the victims faced beatings and torture if they refused to work as online scammers.
Authorities in #Laos ask notorious Kings Romans Casino to stop hiring “chat girls” to scam men out of money, but compliance from the Chinese investors is uncertain.https://t.co/NFigYXcyAD— Asia-News-De (@base_thai) July 30, 2022
The GTSEZ is notorious for human trafficking, narcotics smuggling, and the trade in endangered wildlife products.
The region is reportedly controlled by a Chinese-born gangster-tycoon; hardly surprising given the torture, beatings and large bounty placed on the Malaysians who escaped.
Hopefully, with the repeated warnings from the authorities and testimonials from survivors, Malaysians will be more vigilant and not continue to fall victim to job scams abroad.
Inside Southeast Asia’s Casino Scam Archipelago. This is a first rate piece on the spread of Chinese SEZ’s across #Laos, #Myanmar, & #Cambodia and their implications for rule@of law, human trafficking, human rights and good governance. Do read. https://t.co/leUSipQC7a— Zachary Abuza (@ZachAbuza) August 7, 2022

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Non-Covid Patients In Public Hospitals Are Being Transferred To Private Hospitals

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In a bid to make more space for Covid-19 patients in public healthcare, patients in Klang Valley public hospitals who are NOT being treated for Covid-19 are to be transferred to private hospitals immediately, as reported by MalaysiaKini today (21 July).

The government directive came into force yesterday (20 July) according to a letter addressed to Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM) president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh from Health Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohd Shafiq Abdullah.
Key highlights:
Effective immediately from the date of the letter (20 July)Cost of treatment to be borne by the government up to a certain limit but the private sector is to complete the treatment
Transferred patients must receive due treatment with costs as stated in the following guidelines with the ceiling cost per patient as follows:
Bed charges: The lowest available in the wardSurgery costs: RM45,000Non-surgery costs: RM25,000Follow-up costs: RM5,000
In addition, private hospitals must inform and seek approval from the ministry if:
More than three follow-ups are required after discharge.They need to transfer patients to another private hospital.

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Covid-19: Two New Clusters Detected In Perak & Putrajaya

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The Health Ministry has confirmed the emergence of two new Covid-19 clusters in Perak and Putrajaya respectively on Sunday, 9 August.

Kurau Cluster – Perak & Penang
Kurau Cluster, which emerged from Kinta in Perak also involves an infection in Seberang Perai Tengah, Penang.
The first case in this cluster (Case 9,050) was reported on 7 August, while the second case (Case 9,082) is the brother-in-law of the first who was detected via active case detection on 9 August.
Following the Covid-19 positive result, the patient’s entire family was screened for the virus and all 5 tests came back negative.
As of 9 August, the cluster has two cases while testing on 115 individuals revealed 106 negative results with 6 pending.
The Health Ministry confirms that active case detection and screening of patients’ close contacts are currently underway.
Meranti Cluster – Putrajaya
This cluster emerged when a healthcare worker (Case 9,083) tested positive for the virus on 8 August.
This patient had been a close contact to (Case 8,968) who was found Covid-19 positive on 31 July during a pre-operation screening in Selangor
Following investigations, it was revealed that Case 8,968 received treatment at the healthcare facility where Case 9,083 was on duty.
The Health Ministry states they are still investigating the source of the infection and active case detection is underway.
Credit: Ministry of Health
As of 9 August, 15 individuals have been screened.
The emergence of these two new clusters make it a total of 25 active Covid-19 clusters in Malaysia with 174 patients.
Sunday also saw the addition of 13 new infections, whereby four are local transmissions.
Credit: @KKMPutrajaya/Twitter

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Source:
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 9 Ogos 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia
Kenyataan Akhbar KPK 31 Julai 2020 – Situasi Semasa Jangkitan Penyakit Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) di Malaysia


Celebrating Malaysians Who Put The “Can” At Cannes

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Malaysians have proven time and time again that they are worthy of international success in Cannes.

For some, making it to the Cannes commune figuratively or literally for a festival, award or even a holiday, is a marker of success for many.
In light of the recent news  of the Cannes Film Festival returning after a year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, film buffs connoisseurs are anticipating a fresh breath of film talent across the globe.
Although no Malaysian titles are showcased at the event this year, the city of Cannes on the French Riviera is still renowned for hosting other significant festivals and award shows like Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, and the Cannes Film Awards to name a couple.
Cannes Film Festival
In essence, the Cannes Film Festival is an annual film festival that previews new films of all genres, including documentaries from all around the world.
Aside from its main purpose, it is also a roll call for glitz, glam, networking, and parties.
That said, only a handful of Malaysians have graced this event and they are:
1995: Film director U-Wei Haji Saari’s film “Kaki Bakar” (The Arsonist) was the first Malaysian production to be screened in the Un Certain Regard category. It is a take on William Faulkner’s ‘Barn Burnin’ about the son of an itinerant worker who tries to prevent his volatile father from deliberately setting fires.

2009: The second Malaysian to have been invited to the prestigious film festival is Chris Chong Chan Fui with his film “Karaoke,” which centres on a villagers way of life and the Malaysian palm oil industry. The film premiered in the Directors’ Fortnight stream that year, an independent selection of the film festival.
2010: Following in Karaoke’s footsteps a year later at the Director’s Fortnight is The Tiger Factory by Woo Ming Jin, a profoundly heartbreaking drama about “baby factories”.
2014: Malaysian documentary producer Indrani Kopal, a Fulbright scholar at the Hofstra University in New York at the time, was selected for her first production “The Game Changer”. The documentary about Susan Slotnick, who uses dance as a form for rehabilitation for inmates at the Woodbourne Correctional Facility in New York, was shown at the Cannes Short Film Corner.

Cannes Film Awards
Malaysians have also been making waves at the Cannes Film Awards. Not to be confused with the Cannes Film Festival, this international film festival celebrates film, filmmakers, producers, musicians, actors, screenwriters, photographers and the arts in general.
They aim to bring new names to the film industry and support new creators as well.
Ranked among the Top 100 most popular film festivals out of 10,000 festivals worldwide, the festival collaborates with experts in the field of European film art.
In its inaugural year this year, two Malaysians have each bagged an award at the Cannes Film Awards.

“Touch” by Kurisu Lee, a 13-minute film about a young man and his dreams, won Best Asian Film in the Film Awards – Continental Category while “Garbageman, Nurse, and Cop” by Aiman Samat won Best Crime Film under the Film Awards – Additional Category.
The award show was held at the Cote d’Azur Art Gallery in Cannes, France on 8 June.
Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity
For the advertising and creative communications industry, winning a Cannes Lions is equivalent to being selected for the Cannes Film Festival.
Malaysian agencies have in the past and are still currently winning large at this event.
VJ Anand, former Executive Creative Director of advertising agency BBDO Malaysia and now Head of Creative of VaynerMedia in Singapore recalls the times Malaysia won big at Cannes Lions.
Malaysia has always been pretty good at winning the global advertising stage and I’m sure Malaysia will keep winning.
He remembers Southeast Asia’s first and Malaysia’s only Cannes Lions Grand Prix (the awards’ most coveted honour) was in 2004 by JWT Malaysia for “Missile Car”, an imaginative guerrilla outdoor campaign to promote Channel Nine.
Since, other creative agencies that have followed the shiny award trail include the following VJ has noted for us:
2007: “Tang Hong Ming” by Leo Burnett/Arc Worldwide Malaysia – a TV commercial by the acclaimed creative director and filmmaker Yasmin Ahmad. It was the first Malaysian TV commercial that ever won a Gold Cannes Lion and is still probably one of Malaysia’s most memorable ads to date.

2008: BBDO/Proximity Malaysia won Gold Lion for Chrysler Korea’s campaign for Jeep in the Outdoor category.
2015: When VJ was Group Executive Creative Director at TBWA\Kuala Lumpur, they were awarded the Silver Lion for The Eveready Book of Play which was inspired by the traditional Malaysia form of storytelling, the Wayang Kulit (Shadow Play).
Most recently this year, Grey Malaysia won Silver and Bronze Lion for WWF’s Your Plastic Diet. And in association with the Cannes Lions, they also won the most coveted Grand Prix honour at the WARC Awards for Effectiveness for Tesco: Unforgettable Bag.
There have been many other Malaysians who have strutted away with a Cannes Lion, and for that we should be proud.
READ MORE: M’sian filmmaker wins award at Cannes 2019 for incredible anti-bullying PSA

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Darlie Toothpaste Had Seriously Racist Roots And Needs A Rebranding

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Most Malaysians know and love the minty fresh Darlie toothpaste, which has existed in our memories almost forever. Adults might even humour kids who ask why the logo is of a black man in a top hat, saying that “it makes the white teeth stand out more”.
Well, Darlie might be just in line for a rebrand as parent company Colgate and Hawley & Hazel reads the room regarding global anger over racism.
Darlie was a Chinese brand by Hawley & Hazel first established in Shanghai in 1933. It was originally called Darkie and featured a wide-eyed white man in blackface, inspired by white comedian Al Jolson who popularised the use of blackface. The Chinese name for the product, 黑人牙膏 (hēi rén yá gāo) was literally “Black Person Toothpaste”. Until today, the brand still maintains the Chinese name “黑人牙膏”.
Truly a product of its time.(Credit: Black History Collection)
Surprising absolutely no-one, controversy ensued in 1985 when Colgate-Palmolive acquired the company purely out of the business sense of owning a company that already enjoyed a 75% market share in most of Asia. When word of Colgate’s acquisition of Darkie reached American ears, racial justice groups there began lobbying for a boycott.
Since then, the company has changed the English name on their toothpaste and updated the logo to a less racist image. Yet, because of how popular the toothpaste brand was in Asia, the Chinese name stayed. In fact, in 1990, Cantonese-language television commercials clearly reminded consumers that “Black Person Toothpaste is still Black Person Toothpaste”.

Some of you might even remember Darkie ads from the 80s.
However, Colgate is being careful with their brand choices as tensions over racial injustice rises in the West. The Black Lives Matter movement has become so strong that many corporations are treading lightly and taking the initiative to rebrand their products that were established during the years of America’s slavery of black people.
In fact, Colgate started to look into the problematic origins of the Darlie brand because Quaker Oats acknowledged the same about their Aunt Jemima line of cooking products . The same happened for other household brands that featured black people: Uncle Ben’s line of boxed rice, and Cream of Wheat’s black chef named “Rastus” on boxed porridge.
Uncle Ben’s brand features a smiling black man.(Credit: Twitter)
Unlike other brands such as KFC or even Lao Gan Ma that also feature a human person in the logo, the black characters featured in Darkie, Uncle Ben’s, and Aunt Jemima were not real people. Their racist roots come from the fact that they were created based on the servant-stereotype of black people.
Aunt Jemima iconography was modelled after the Jim Crow-era perception of black women, as a plump loyal Southern “mammy” figure that makes sweet breakfasts. Uncle Ben’s was also criticized as an “Uncle Tom” stereotype of black men who were subservient and obedient to white people, craving their validation during the 1880’s. As such, critics often protest that the continuous depiction of stereotypical black people is, at its core, exploitative.

These companies have actually gotten years of complaints over the imagery depicted, but only started to consider changing their brand during this turbulent time.
Regardless of whether or not it’s a smart step in public relations or a genuine attempt to address and face the brands’ problematic histories, it looks like Darlie Toothpaste may drop their “Black Person Toothpaste” name for good.

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