Category :

Lifestyle

Mustapha Sakmud’s “Secret Recipe” Helps Former Guard Rebuild Life

KOTA KINABALU,May 18– For Jumadi, losing his job after battling serious health problems felt like his entire life had collapsed overnight. The former security guard described the experience as “falling .... read more

Victory Monument in Bangkok

INDONESIA 1. PERTAMINA NRE EYES RENEWABLE ENERGY DEVELOPMENT IN BANGLADESH — ANTARA A subsidiary of state-owned oil company Pertamina, Pertamina NRE (New & Renewable Energy), is exploring collaboration in Bangladesh’s .... read more

,

A Journey Defined by Leadership, Elegance & Excellence

In the ever-evolving world of hospitality, true leadership is defined not only by professional achievements but also by the ability to inspire, innovate, and leave a lasting impact. For over .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 — Malaysia’s Generation Z is reshaping the country’s lifestyle landscape through evolving priorities centered on wellness, digital engagement, financial awareness and experience-driven living, according to industry observers and youth-focused market studies. Born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z represents one of the most influential demographic groups in Malaysia today. As digital natives entering adulthood in a post-pandemic environment, this generation is increasingly influencing consumer behavior, workplace culture, entertainment trends and even tourism preferences. Unlike previous generations that often emphasized material ownership and conventional career paths, many Malaysian youths today are prioritising flexibility, mental well-being, sustainability and meaningful experiences over traditional status symbols. Analysts say the shift is creating new opportunities across industries including hospitality, retail, fashion, wellness, digital content creation and food and beverage businesses. Rise of Experience-Based Spending One of the most visible lifestyle shifts among Malaysian Gen Z consumers is the growing preference for spending on experiences rather than possessions. From short domestic travel getaways and boutique café hopping to music festivals and wellness retreats, younger Malaysians are increasingly seeking activities that provide emotional fulfillment and social connection. Travel operators and tourism industry players have reported rising demand for group travel experiences, eco-tourism packages and social media-friendly destinations popular among young adults. Industry observers note that Gen Z consumers are heavily influenced by online content platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, where travel trends and lifestyle recommendations can rapidly gain traction nationwide. This trend has also contributed to the rapid growth of lifestyle cafés and aesthetic dining spaces in urban centers such as Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, Johor Bahru and Penang. Restaurant operators are now placing greater emphasis not only on food quality, but also on ambience, digital branding and “Instagrammable” concepts designed to appeal to younger consumers. Marketing strategist Nur Aisyah Hamdan said Gen Z consumers often associate experiences with personal identity and social connection. “Many young Malaysians today value memories and emotional experiences more than luxury ownership. Dining, travel and social activities are increasingly viewed as part of self-expression,” she said. Wellness and Mental Health Awareness Expanding Mental health awareness and personal wellness have also become defining lifestyle priorities among Malaysia’s younger generation. Following the social and economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many youths are now more open to discussing mental health challenges, burnout and work-life balance issues. Fitness culture, mindfulness practices and healthier lifestyle choices are gaining popularity among urban youths, particularly through online communities and social media platforms. Gym memberships, recreational sports, pilates studios and wellness-related businesses have recorded stronger engagement from younger demographics over the past two years. At the same time, conversations surrounding emotional well-being and therapy are becoming increasingly mainstream among Gen Z Malaysians, reflecting broader global trends. Universiti Malaya sociologist Dr Farid Rahman said younger generations are more willing to challenge traditional stigmas surrounding mental health. “Gen Z grew up during a highly connected digital era where information is easily accessible. They are generally more comfortable discussing emotional well-being openly compared to previous generations,” he explained. However, experts also warn that excessive digital exposure and social media comparison culture continue to contribute to anxiety and emotional fatigue among youths. Studies globally have shown that prolonged exposure to curated online lifestyles may create unrealistic expectations related to success, appearance and personal achievements. As a result, digital detox activities, outdoor recreation and slower-paced lifestyle movements are becoming increasingly attractive among urban youths seeking balance.                    Digital Entrepreneurship Becoming Mainstream Malaysia’s Gen Z population is also embracing entrepreneurship at a younger age, driven largely by digital platforms and creator economy opportunities. Social media platforms including TikTok, YouTube and Instagram have enabled many young Malaysians to generate income through content creation, online businesses and affiliate marketing. The rise of live-stream commerce and home-based digital enterprises has created alternative career pathways beyond traditional office employment. Many youths are now pursuing side income opportunities while studying or working full-time, reflecting growing interest in financial independence and flexible work arrangements. According to industry estimates, Malaysia’s digital economy continues to expand rapidly, with younger users forming a major segment of online entrepreneurs and freelance creators. Local brands are also increasingly collaborating with micro-influencers and youth creators to connect with younger audiences through authentic and relatable marketing campaigns. Digital strategist Amirul Hakim said Gen Z consumers tend to respond more positively to peer-driven content than traditional advertising approaches. “They prefer authenticity and relatability. Influencers who appear genuine often create stronger engagement than polished celebrity campaigns,” he said. The creator economy trend has also influenced fashion, beauty and lifestyle industries, where social commerce now plays a major role in consumer purchasing decisions.                       Sustainable and Ethical Consumer Habits Growing Environmental awareness is becoming another important lifestyle factor shaping Gen Z spending behavior in Malaysia. Young consumers are showing stronger interest in sustainable fashion, reusable products and environmentally conscious brands compared to previous generations. Thrift shopping and pre-loved fashion culture have gained significant popularity among students and young working adults, especially in major urban areas. Second-hand clothing events, vintage markets and eco-conscious local brands are increasingly attracting Gen Z consumers seeking affordability alongside sustainability. Many youths are also more conscious about food waste, ethical sourcing and environmentally friendly packaging when choosing products or dining establishments. Businesses across Malaysia are gradually adapting to these preferences by introducing sustainable packaging initiatives and eco-friendly branding strategies. However, experts note that affordability remains a major consideration for young consumers facing rising living costs and economic uncertainty. While many Gen Z Malaysians support sustainability values, purchasing decisions are still often influenced by pricing and accessibility. Changing Definitions of Success Beyond consumer habits, Malaysia’s younger generation is also redefining traditional perceptions of success and career achievement. Flexible work arrangements, personal fulfillment and work-life balance are increasingly viewed as important factors alongside salary and career stability. The popularity of remote work and freelance careers has accelerated since the pandemic, with many young Malaysians seeking greater autonomy over their lifestyles and schedules. Some youths are prioritising passion-driven careers in creative industries, digital media and entrepreneurship despite economic uncertainties. Education experts say this shift reflects broader global changes in workforce expectations among younger generations. At the same time, concerns surrounding inflation, housing affordability and long-term financial security remain significant issues affecting Malaysian youths today. Despite optimism surrounding digital opportunities, many Gen Z Malaysians continue to face pressures related to employment competition and rising urban living costs. Nevertheless, observers believe the generation’s adaptability and digital fluency will continue shaping Malaysia’s economic and cultural landscape in the years ahead. As businesses, policymakers and industries respond to these evolving preferences, Gen Z’s influence is expected to play an increasingly important role in defining future lifestyle trends across the country. With wellness, authenticity, sustainability and digital engagement becoming central themes, Malaysia’s youth culture is undergoing a transformation that reflects not only changing consumer habits, but also broader shifts in values and identity among a new generation. -- MINUTESMY / SUGAN BALAN

Malaysian Gen Z Redefining Lifestyle Trends Through Wellness, Digital Culture and Experience-Driven Living

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 — Malaysia’s Generation Z is reshaping the country’s lifestyle landscape through evolving priorities centered on wellness, digital engagement, financial awareness and experience-driven living, according to industry .... read more

Avalere Health expands to Japan with a full-service Advisory, Medical, and Marketing offering, led by industry veteran Junji Yokokawa

TOKYO, May 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Avalere Health, a global strategic partner for the healthcare industry, today announces the launch of its Japan office. The move marks a significant expansion .... read more

GEORGE TOWN, May 11 -- A total of 28 traditional Penang dishes have been gazetted as intangible cultural heritage under the Penang State Heritage Enactment 2011 this year in an effort to preserve the state’s identity and rich culinary legacy. Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the gazetted foods include some of the state’s most iconic dishes such as nasi kandar, asam laksa, char kuetiau, pasembor and cendol. “Among the other foods gazetted are Hokkien mee, squid noodles, mee jawa, prawn noodles, roti Benggali, oh chien, kerabu bihun, mamak fried noodles, putu mayam, muruku, tosai and teh tarik,” he told the State Assembly at today’s sitting. He was responding to a question from Wong Yuee Harng (PH-Pengkalan Kota) regarding Penang’s achievements in obtaining recognition for intangible heritage at the state, national and international levels. Wong said all intangible cultural heritage items gazetted at the state level could subsequently be recommended for national recognition under the National Heritage Act 2005 before being considered for international recognition by UNESCO. Apart from traditional cuisine, seven additional cultural and heritage elements were also gazetted, including Nasi Kandar Culture, Kopitiam Culture, the Chingay Parade, Thaipusam Festival and the Tanjong dialect. He added that the Penang government would continue strengthening efforts to preserve intangible heritage through various programmes and festivals at both local and international levels.

Penang Gazettes 28 Traditional Foods As Intangible Cultural Heritage

GEORGE TOWN, May 11 — A total of 28 traditional Penang dishes have been gazetted as intangible cultural heritage under the Penang State Heritage Enactment 2011 this year in an .... read more

SEOUL, South Korea, May 11, 2026 -- Brochu Walker, the Los Angeles based quiet luxury womenswear brand known for its refined approach to modern dressing, today announced its official expansion into Korea, alongside the appointment of Cha Joo Young as its first Korean brand ambassador. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the brand, which will open its first international flagship store in Seoul this July in Dosan Park. Spanning five floors, including 2 dedicated retail spaces and one private VIP suite (Designed by Blurker Design Studio) the Seoul flagship is designed as an immersive expression of the Brochu Walker world, blending California ease with a more considered, architectural approach to space. The expansion reflects Brochu Walker's continued global growth and its alignment with the evolving definition of modern luxury, one grounded in intention, quality, and understated design. Founded in 2008, Brochu Walker has built a loyal following in the United States and internationally through its "Luxury to Live In" philosophy, a perspective rooted in creating pieces that move effortlessly through a woman's life. Known for its elevated knitwear, soft tailoring, and timeless silhouettes, the brand balances relaxed California ease with a refined, editorial sensibility. The brand has established a strong presence within the global fashion and celebrity landscape, regularly worn by figures including Meghan Markle, Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts, and Reese Witherspoon, and featured in leading publications such as Vogue, ELLE, Harper's Bazaar, and Forbes. "Seoul is one of the most influential fashion markets in Asia today," said Karine Dubner, CEO and Chief Creative Officer of Brochu Walker. "The customer is incredibly discerning. She values quiet luxury, premium materials, and pieces that feel personal rather than loud. In Korea, how you dress is a form of respect. That emotional relationship with clothing mirrors how we design. For us, Seoul isn't simply an expansion, but a conversation we've been wanting to have for a long time." The choice of Cha Joo Young as brand ambassador reflects a natural alignment between the brand's values and her personal presence. Recognized for her understated elegance and quiet confidence, she embodies a modern femininity defined by restraint, ease, and authenticity, a perspective that mirrors the Brochu Walker approach to dressing. "I was drawn to Brochu Walker because the clothes don't try to speak loudly, they feel considered. There's confidence in that restraint, and that feels very natural to me," said Cha Joo Young. Brochu Walker's collections span ready to wear, including signature knitwear, dresses, and shirting, alongside footwear, jewelry, and fragrance, offering a complete wardrobe defined by ease, refinement, and a quietly considered approach to everyday dressing. Seoul represents a natural extension of the Brochu Walker world, a city where a deep appreciation for detail, material, and silhouette aligns closely with the brand's design philosophy. With its upcoming flagship, Brochu Walker aims to create a space that reflects its California origins while engaging with Seoul's distinct perspective on modern elegance. --SOURCE: /PRNewswire/

FROM LOS ANGELES TO SEOUL: QUIET LUXURY BRAND BROCHU WALKER OPENS FIRST GLOBAL FLAGSHIP WITH CHA JOO YOUNG AS AMBASSADOR

SEOUL, South Korea, May 11, 2026 — Brochu Walker, the Los Angeles based quiet luxury womenswear brand known for its refined approach to modern dressing, today announced its official expansion .... read more

Kuala Lumpur, 8 May, 2026 - Among today’s youth, the simplest acts of friendship foster the deepest sense of connection. Embracing this spirit of togetherness, Luckin Coffee Malaysia is proud to announce its latest collaboration with the beloved homegrown cartoon IP, Bear Boss Buddies, themed "Escape into Grape Fantasy". Launched today, the collaboration celebrates the joy of shared experiences and moments through a curated selection of grape and cherry blossom-inspired beverage series. Born from the creative vision of founder Dylan Ang, Bear Boss Buddies first shone on the global stage while carrying a distinct local essence and showcasing a uniquely Malaysian sense of friendship through its characters. This partnership highlights the unique bond between the three main characters: Bear Boss, with his classic 'boss' charisma; Mao, the brains of the family member; and the ultra-chill Capybara. Together, they are set to take over Luckin Coffee’s May calendar with their signature brand of friendship. Dr. Jeff Lim Chee Lip, CEO of Luckin Coffee Malaysia said, "Staying on the pulse of Gen Z while embracing the local culture is always at our heart. We saw how deeply Dylan's Bear Boss Buddies values friendship and authentic local creativity, which made our collaboration a natural choice. Also, we hope to remind everyone that every connection can be carried through a simple cup of coffee," "We have always been spreading positivity and a sense of belonging through Bear Boss Buddies. Partnering with Luckin Coffee Malaysia allows us to bring our characters into the daily rituals of Malaysians, creating meaningful experiences that showcase local creativity and spark deeper connections through friendship," said Dylan Ang, founder of Bear Boss Buddies. Grape Series For A Great Escape This May The "Escape into Grape Fantasy" campaign launches a meticulously crafted grape and cherry blossom beverages for friends and family to share blissful moments: ● Grape Cheese Cloud (Available from 8 May onwards): A luscious grape drink topped with sea-salt cheese foam, featuring juicy Summer Black grapes in every cup for a creamy, blissful experience. ● Grape Refresher (Available from 8 May onwards): The perfect way to cool down, blending Summer Black grapes, zesty locally produced lime, and fragrant jasmine tea for those seeking a summer refresher. ● Cherry Blossom Latte (Launching on 15 May): A delicate pink latte infused with Guan Shan cherry blossom flavor and balanced with rich coffee. Exclusive Collectibles, Physical Meet & Greet The collaboration goes beyond the cup with the introduction of the Luckin Coffee x Bear Boss Buddies 'Wiggly Tail' Plushie Blind Bag launching on 15 May. This exclusive collection features the three main characters: Bear Boss, Mao, and Capybara, in a charming tactile form. Designed to be a companion for daily life, where it complements a bag or keep it on the desk, these plushies serve as a constant reminder that life’s best adventures are better shared. Fans can redeem a free plushie blind bag with the purchase of a selected 2-drink combo for RM 24.90 via the Luckin Coffee app. Additionally, fans are invited to celebrate the launch and meet the Bear Boss Buddies in person at Luckin Coffee Sunway Square on 9 May. The characters will make special appearances during exclusive sessions at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. For more information about Luckin Coffee x Bear Boss Buddies collaboration, please stay tuned to Luckin Coffee Malaysia’s official Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and XiaoHongShu social media channels or visit the Luckin Coffee app.

LUCKIN COFFEE MALAYSIA REIMAGINE CONNECTION THROUGH A HEARTWARMING COLLABORATION WITH HOMEGROWN IP, BEAR BOSS BUDDIES

Among today’s youth, the simplest acts of friendship foster the deepest sense of connection. Embracing this spirit of togetherness, Luckin Coffee Malaysia is proud to announce its latest collaboration with .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, 11 May 2026- AirAsia MOVE (MOVE), the official booking platform for AirAsia flights, launched a new feature ‘1x Zero Change Fee’ by giving travellers greater flexibility when managing their AirAsia flight bookings. The ‘1x Zero Change Fee’ feature gives travellers a one-time waiver of flight change fees when changing the date or time of their AirAsia flights booked via the MOVE app or airasia.com. Travellers will still be required to pay any fare differences, taxes or other applicable charges in line with standard flight change policies, but the feature significantly reduces the overall cost of making travel changes, offering greater flexibility and peace of mind. Chan Kok Ding, Head of Flights at AirAsia MOVE commented, “In today’s travel landscape, where plans can change quickly and travellers expect greater control, we remain committed to delivering both flexibility and affordability. With ‘1x Zero Change Fee’, travellers can adjust their plans with greater ease when circumstances change. “We will continue to enhance the platform with features that make travelling simpler and more seamless, while bringing more exclusive benefits to our MOVE users, all within one app.” On top of the ‘1x Zero Change Fee’ feature, AirAsia MOVE offers a range of features designed to enhance travel flexibility and convenience. The Easy Cancel add-on allows eligible passengers to cancel flights up to 48 hours before departure for up to an 80% refund, subject to applicable terms and conditions, while 0% Instalment plans enable users to spread the cost of flight-and-hotel bundles over three to six months. The platform also streamlines the airport experience for AirAsia flights through Online Check-In and Auto Visa Check (AVC), which helps verify travel documentation in real time and supports a more seamless check-in experience. For the latest updates, follow @airasiamove on Instagram & TikTok. Download the app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei App Gallery for a smooth and enhanced booking experience

AirAsia MOVE introduces ‘1x Zero Change Fee’ feature to boost travel flexibility

KUALA LUMPUR, 11 May 2026- AirAsia MOVE (MOVE), the official booking platform for AirAsia flights, launched a new feature ‘1x Zero Change Fee’ by giving travellers greater flexibility when managing .... read more

SINGAPORE, May 7 — Digital travel platform Agoda is inviting partners to participate in its 21st Birthday Sale, giving them an opportunity to align their offers with growing travel interest for Asia’s emerging destinations during key travel planning periods. Recent Agoda data shows that accommodation searches in secondary cities across Asia have grown 15% faster than in traditional tourism hubs over the last two years. That momentum is also reflected in Agoda’s New Horizons ranking report, which identifies Sapa (Vietnam), Okayama (Japan), Bandung (Indonesia), Matsuyama (Japan) and Takamatsu (Japan) as Asia’s top five emerging destinations based on international travel interest over the last two years. Partners can tap into this opportunity by joining Agoda’s 21st Birthday Sale running from 3 May to 21 May, giving them an opportunity to package and promote relevant offers to travelers exploring emerging destinations and to stay visible as guests plan their journeys. Agoda’s 21st Birthday Sale features a three-phase campaign structure designed to help partners maximize visibility during the height of booking interests. Travelers can enjoy up to 60% off on hotel bookings during the main sale, with a special Flash Sale offering up to 70% off on 19 May. The campaign also includes VIP Priority Access for Agoda VIP members from 3 to 6 May, giving early access to deals before the main sale runs from 7 to 21 May. As travelers increasingly seek out new destinations and diverse sets of travel experiences, campaigns like Agoda’s 21st Birthday Sale can help partners raise discoverability, align with booking interests and reach guests at the point of decision. Enhanced visibility through homepage banners, campaign landing pages, pop-up banners and exclusive badges are among the features available to participating partners. “Travel is getting more interesting when you look beyond the obvious hubs and that’s good news for our partners,” said Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda. “When demand spreads to a wider set of destinations, it creates more opportunities for properties outside the main gateways to be discovered and booked. Secondary cities are continuing to draw stronger interest, and the partners who show up early with sharp pricing, clear listings and the right offers are the ones most likely to benefit. Agoda’s 21st Birthday Sale is designed to help partners do exactly that through stronger visibility during key booking and planning windows.” To celebrate its 21st birthday, Agoda is offering high-value deals to inspire travelers to explore the region’s emerging destinations. For partners, it presents an opportunity to pair strong offers with one of Agoda’s promotional moments of the year. With flexible participation options and broad consumer reach, Agoda’s 21st Birthday Sale is designed to help partners of all sizes make the most of changing travel patterns and rising interest in Asia’s next wave of destinations. This is an open invitation for travel partners across the ecosystem to collaborate early, plan smarter and co-create compelling seasonal offers for travelers worldwide. For more information on how to participate, visit https://partnerhub.agoda.com/agodas-mega-sale/. — Source: Agoda

Agoda’s 21st Birthday Sale Gives Partners a Route Into Asia’s Rising Destinations

SINGAPORE, May 7 — Digital travel platform Agoda is inviting partners to participate in its 21st Birthday Sale, giving them an opportunity to align their offers with growing travel interest .... read more

Latest News

PM Anwar To Meet Keralam CM, Governor On Bilateral Cooperation

Meeting With Vijay Remains On The Card – PM Anwar

Melaka Polls: PPP Leaves Seat Allocation To BN

472 Foreign Nationals Detained In Lebuh Pudu Operation

Fisherman Found Dead Off Perlis Waters