StarPicks | The Star

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Whatever piques your interest, discover something new regularly on StarPicks! </p> </div> <div class="ss-wrap"> <form method="get" action="" id="formstar" enctype="multipart/form-data"> </form> <div class="sub-section-list"> <div class="button-view btnLoadMore" style="margin: 10px auto 15px;"> <a id="loadMorestories" >Load more </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <script type="text/javascript"> var listing = {"data":[{"cms_article_id":3797271,"np_article_id":1562733,"article_title":"AEON Bank introduces Malaysia\u2019s first digital banking interactive loyalty programme","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"StarPicks, Digital Advertorial, AEON Bank, Neko Missions, Neko Paws, ZUS Coffee, PayNet, DuitNow, Tealive, AEON Points, myAEON2go, CX, Raja Teh Maimunah Raja 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18:05:17\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-21 18:13:05\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Johan bin Mohd Hulaimi\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"target_page\":null,\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-21 18:05:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\"image_path\":\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/21\\\/3178938.jpg\",\"cms_type\":\"live\",\"small_image\":\"\",\"is_updated\":\"0\",\"image_cropping\":\"{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":640,\\\"image_original_height\\\":420,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}}\",\"is_copied\":\"0\",\"media_type\":\"0\",\"image_caption\":\"\",\"image_count\":4}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/21\/aeon-bank-introduces-malaysias-first-digital-banking-interactive-loyalty-programme","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>AEON Bank is pioneering an enhanced digital banking customer experience (CX) with “Neko Missions”, an innovative gamification-based stamp programme.<\/p><p>Neko Missions is designed to enhance customer engagement and elevate their overall banking experience while making daily transactions.<\/p><p>The new feature was developed to promote greater synergy with AEON’s wider ecosystem, namely merchant partners such as ZUS Coffee and Tealive.<\/p><p>The bank’s effort to promote cashless transactions is also supported by PayNet via the Neko Missions DuitNow QR programme.<\/p><p>Before this, AEON Bank embedded the widely-used AEON Points Programme into its digital banking app, rewarding customers who shop at AEON stores nationwide.<\/p><p>This move has made it the only bank in the country to establish a retail loyalty programme integrated into its mobile banking app.<\/p><p>“Digital banking has the potential to be more than just a payment and transaction tool. We aim to elevate the mobile banking experience for our customers by optimising it as a medium of engagement between customers and their favourite F&B or retail brands,” AEON Bank (M) Bhd chief executive officer Raja Teh Maimunah Raja Abdul Aziz.<\/p><p>“Neko Missions infuses fun in daily payment and shopping activities, making cashless financial habits more dynamic.<\/p><p>“We will further develop our loyalty programme, and through Neko Missions, we will explore partnerships with various merchants partners within our ecosystem, while leveraging each others’ unique selling points and customers' brand affinity.”<\/p><p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/21\/3178939.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 640px; height: 310px;\" \/><\/p><p><strong>Ready, set, meow!<\/strong><\/p><p>The newly introduced Neko Missions aims to spark joy by introducing exciting rewards in customers’ everyday digital payments.<\/p><p>The Neko Missions virtual stamps – called Neko Paws – can be collected via the AEON Bank app by clicking on the “Rewards” icon and completing missions.<\/p><p>The programme features AEON’s retail star tenant, ZUS Coffee, as well as PayNet’s DuitNow.<\/p><p>From now until March 31, for every Neko Missions - DuitNow QR transaction of RM20 and above, customers can collect one Neko Paw, limited to two per day.<\/p><p>A set of 10 Neko Paws can be redeemed into 1,000 AEON Points (worth RM5) via the mobile app.<\/p><p>“Our strategic collaboration with AEON Bank enhances Malaysia's digital payments landscape by delivering a seamless, secure and rewarding digital payment experience,” said PayNet commercial senior director Azrul Fakhzan B. Mainor.<\/p><p>“With Neko Missions, we are integrating incentives into everyday transactions, encouraging more Malaysians to embrace cashless payments while enjoying meaningful rewards.<\/p><p>“This will strengthen customer engagement and accelerate the shift toward a more connected, inclusive and digitally empowered economy.\"<\/p><p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/21\/3178936.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 640px; height: 411px;\" \/><\/p><p>Meanwhile, for Neko Missions - ZUS Coffee, from now until May 31, customers just need to use their AEON Bank Debit Card-i to pay at ZUS Coffee outlets (with a minimum purchase of RM7) and they will be entitled to earn one Neko Paws.<\/p><p>Collecting six Neko Paws will entitle customers to rewards that can be redeemed via the ZUS Coffee app.<\/p><p>More rewards on the horizon<\/p><p>Upcoming Neko Missions will offer rewards through synergy with retail partners such as myAEON2go, AEON Fantasy, Tealive, Sisters Crispy Popiah and more.<\/p><p>Customers are encouraged to use their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aeonbank.com.my\/deposit\" target=\"_blank\">AEON Bank Debit Card-i<\/a> to pay for both in-store and online purchases to earn more AEON Points, which are redeemable into cash value on the mobile app.<\/p><p>Additionally, customers can participate in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aeonbank.com.my\/referral\" target=\"_blank\">AEON Bank Share-Share Lah Referral Programme<\/a> by referring friends or family to open an AEON Bank Savings Account-i to earn 1,800 AEON Points, worth RM9, for each successful referral.<\/p><p>AEON Bank is steadfast in its commitment to providing a wider demographic of Malaysians with accessible, secure and Shariah-compliant digital banking products and services.<\/p><p>It will continue to connect digital financial solutions with lifestyle offerings through its Neko Missions and AEON Points loyalty programmes while adding value to the digital banking CX by enhancing it to be more dynamic than before.<\/p><p><em><strong>For more information, browse Neko Missions on the AEON Bank’s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aeonbank.com.my\/\" target=\"_blank\">website<\/a> or click the “Rewards” icon on the AEON Bank app. Scan the QR Code below to download the app and redeem rewards.<\/strong><\/em><\/p><p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/21\/3178937.png\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 254px; height: 256px;\" \/><\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3797210,"np_article_id":1562581,"article_title":"LBS secures top honours at Islamic Finance News Awards","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"LBS, LBS Bina Group Bhd, Property, Development, Islamic Finance News, IFN, Asean Social SRI Sukuk, Islamic Financing, Islamic Finance, Sustainability, StarPicks\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"starpicks\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/21\\\/lbs-secures-top-honours-at-islamic-finance-news-awards\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"21-02-2025 15:06:29\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"28-02-2025 15:06:29\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"610\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"LBS Bina 21Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"LBS Bina Group Bhd, a leading property developer guided by people-first values, clinched two awards \\u2013 'Malaysia Deal of the Year' and 'Sustainability Deal of the Year' at the highly prestigious Islamic Finance News (IFN) Deals of the Year 2024 Awards.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-21 15:06:29\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-21 15:43:51\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Johan bin Mohd Hulaimi\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-21 15:06:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\"image_path\":\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/21\\\/3178577.jpg\",\"cms_type\":\"live\",\"small_image\":\"\",\"is_updated\":\"0\",\"image_cropping\":\"{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":2000,\\\"image_original_height\\\":1333,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}}\",\"is_copied\":\"0\",\"media_type\":\"0\",\"image_caption\":\"LBS+Bina+Group+deputy+chief+executive+officer%2C+Lucas+Lim+%28right%29%2C+proudly+accepted+the+Malaysia+Deal+of+the+Year+and+Sustainability+Deal+of+the+Year+accolades+at+the+Islamic+Finance+News+Deals+of+the+Year+2024+Awards%2C+recognising+LBS%E2%80%99+commitment+to+innovation+and+sustainability+in+Islamic+finance.\",\"image_count\":1}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/21\/lbs-secures-top-honours-at-islamic-finance-news-awards","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>LBS Bina Group Bhd, a leading property developer guided by people-first values, clinched two awards – ‘Malaysia Deal of the Year’ and ‘Sustainability Deal of the Year’ at the highly prestigious Islamic Finance News (IFN) Deals of the Year 2024 Awards.<\/p><p>These awards honour LBS in recognition of its first tranche of the Asean Social SRI Sukuk Wakalah of RM200mil, the groundbreaking initiative under its RM750mil Sukuk Wakalah Programme.<\/p><p>The Sukuk Wakalah Programme, rated ‘AA-IS’ by MARC Ratings Berhad (MARC), was a standout submission for its role in driving sustainable development and delivering social impact.<\/p><p>LBS made history as the first real estate developer in Malaysia to issue this Asean Social SRI Sukuk Wakalah, a Shariah-compliant financial instrument designed to fund socially responsible projects.<\/p><p>Aligning with the group’s inaugural Sustainability Financing Framework, which has earned a ‘Gold’ Impact Bond Assessment from MARC, this accolade reinforces LBS' dedication to sustainable and socially responsible financing, further solidifying its commitment to projects with positive environmental and social impact.<\/p><p>This award, which showcases the Sukuk Wakalah Programme, exemplifies LBS’ commitment to sustainability and innovation and highlights the group’s leadership in advancing Islamic finance principles.<\/p><p>LBS’ strategic collaboration with key financial institutions, coupled with its forward-thinking adoption of ESG-aligned initiatives, solidifies its position as a leader in driving positive change through financial solutions.<\/p><p>The IFN Deals of the Year Awards, now in its 19th year, is regarded as the pinnacle of recognition in the global Islamic finance industry, recognising outstanding Shariah-compliant transactions that demonstrate innovation, influence and industry excellence.<\/p><p>This year, the award saw a record number of submissions, with strong participation from key markets such as the Gulf Cooperation Council, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Turkiye.<\/p><p>Oman experienced significant growth in submissions, while Saudi Arabia recorded its highest-ever level of participation.<\/p><p>Reflecting on the triumph, LBS group executive chairman Tan Sri Ir Dr Lim Hock San said, “We are truly delighted and honoured to receive this esteemed recognition from IFN.<\/p><p>“These awards undeniably reflect the hard work and dedication of the entire LBS team and reaffirm the group’s proactive approach to sustainability and innovation.<\/p><p>“By focusing on creating lasting social impact and upholding the highest standards of governance, the issuance of our RM200mil Asean Social SRI Sukuk is a prime example of this commitment.<\/p><p>“It not only supports Malaysia’s Islamic finance ecosystem but also enables us to deliver sustainable and affordable housing solutions, fulfilling our vision of enriching lives and building stronger communities.”<\/p><p>He further added, “With Malaysia emerging as a hub for Islamic financing, LBS’ achievements at this IFN Awards serve as a testament to the group’s pioneering role in shaping the sector.<\/p><p>“Moving forward, the group strives to integrate sustainable and socially responsible financing practices, strengthening its dedication to funding projects that drive positive environmental and social outcomes, while delivering transformative value to stakeholders.”<\/p><p> <\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3797104,"np_article_id":1562296,"article_title":"Celebrating your favourite local authors","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"StarPicks, Digital Advertorial, Popular-The Star Readers' Choice Awards, RCA, Popular-BH Anugerah Pilihan Pembaca, APP, BookFest @ Malaysia, KLCC, Popular Harris, Books, Reading\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE Popular-The Star Readers' Choice Awards (RCA) and Popular-BH Anugerah Pilihan Pembaca (APP) return for their 15th consecutive year at BookFest @ Malaysia.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-21 09:16:35\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-21 09:21:55\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"target_page\":null,\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-21 09:16:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\"image_path\":\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/21\\\/3178092.jpg\",\"cms_type\":\"live\",\"small_image\":\"\",\"is_updated\":\"0\",\"image_cropping\":\"{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":413,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}}\",\"is_copied\":\"0\",\"media_type\":\"0\",\"image_caption\":\"\",\"image_count\":3}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/21\/celebrating-your-favourite-local-authors","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE Popular-The Star Readers’ Choice Awards (RCA) and Popular-BH Anugerah Pilihan Pembaca (APP) return for their 15th consecutive year at BookFest @ Malaysia.<\/p><p>Established in 2008, the RCA (for English titles) and APP (for Malay titles) aim to foster creativity among local authors while strengthening the literary industry by recognising their efforts and contributions.<\/p><p>Both awards, organised in collaboration with Star Media Group Bhd and Berita Harian, continue to celebrate exceptional local talents. <\/p><p>Over the past years, there has been an inspiring surge of remarkable works from Malaysian authors across diverse genres, further enhancing Popular’s mission to cultivate a love for reading and books among Malaysians from all walks of life.<\/p><p><strong>Celebrating local talents<\/strong><\/p><p>The RCA and APP have recognised numerous renowned personalities as winners. Previous RCA winners include Norhafsah Hamid (2023 and 2024), NF Afrina (2024), Tan Sri Tony Fernandes (2018), Robert Kuok (2018), Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali (2017) and Tunku Halim (2015). <\/p><p>Meanwhile, previous winners who finished on the podium for APP include the likes of Teme Abdullah (2024), Sofia Roses (2023), Hadi Fayyadh (2019), Datuk Kazim Elias (2016) and Suri Ryana (2012 and 2013).<\/p><p>At last year’s RCA, the top three winners of the fiction category went to Norhafsah Hamid (Will You Love Me?), NF Afrina (Not Here to Stay) and Lilian Li (Duet Me Not). <\/p><p>In the non-fiction category, the top three winners were authors Norhafsah Hamid (Letters for the Fragile Heart), Ayesha Syahira (He Found You Lost and Guided You) and Dr Ariza Mohamed (Doctor in the Dock).<\/p><p><strong>2025 nominees<\/strong><\/p><p>Nominees are selected from last year’s best-selling fiction and non-fiction titles at Popular and Harris bookstores nationwide. The RCA 2025 nominees for the fiction category are:<\/p><p>> Norhafsah Hamid (If Only You Remember)<\/p><p>> Nuruljannah Usop (Lyrics and You)<\/p><p>> Raffeera (Ready Alert for Love)<\/p><p>> Yangsze Choo (The Fox Wife)<\/p><p>> Sue Lynn Tan (Celestial Kingdom #3: Tales of the Celestial Kingdom)<\/p><p>> Vanessa Chan (The Storm We Made)<\/p><p>> Shih-Li Kow (Bone Weight and Other Stories - Signed edition)<\/p><p>> Hanna Alkaf (The Hysterical Girls of St. Bernadette's)<\/p><p>> Aida (Forgive, Forget)<\/p><p>> Sajeet Soudagar (Silencing The Lambs)<\/p><p>Meanwhile, the nominees for the non-fiction category are:<\/p><p>> Liew Chin Tong (Second Takeoff: Strategies for Malaysia's Economic Resurgence)<\/p><p>> Kee Thuan Chye (Lim Kit Siang: Malaysian First - Vol Two)<\/p><p>> Ezzah Mahmud (The Art of Awaiting)<\/p><p>> Khoo Boo Teik (Anwar Ibrahim: Tenacious in Dissent, Hopeful in Power)<\/p><p>> Romen Bose (Shattered Hopes)<\/p><p>> Pahrol Mohd Juoi (Finding Beauty in the Storm)<\/p><p>> Datuk Joe Samad (Revisiting the Social Contract: The Malaysia-Borneo Perspectives)<\/p><p>> Chow Ee-Tan (An Elated State of Mind: Memoir of A Bipolar Person)<\/p><p>> Lilian Tan (Behind the Stories: The Making of The Edge, The People, The Elations + Heartbreaks of the past 30 years)<\/p><p>> Nuurianti Jalli and Ika Idris (Misguided Democracy in Malaysia and Indonesia: Digital Propaganda in South-East Asia)<\/p><p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/21\/3178093.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 500px; height: 500px;\" \/><\/p><p>The top three winners in each category will be rewarded with a certificate of recognition, atrophy and cash prize during an awards ceremony on April 5, to be held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), in conjunction with BookFest @ Malaysia 2025 which will take place from March 29 to Apr 6 at the same venue. <\/p><p>A total of 10 books will be nominated in each category, with all Popular and Harris outlets nationwide displaying the 40 nominated titles on RCA and APP for readers to view. <\/p><p>All nominated titles will be sold at a 20% discount during the promotion period until May 4.<\/p><p><strong>Vote for your favourite<\/strong><\/p><p>Coming into the 15th year of the RCA and APP, winners will be selected based on the readers’votes with the slogan “Read to Vote, Vote to Win”.<\/p><p>Readers will also be in the running for prizes, whereby 100 selected RCA and APP voterswill receive a one-year Popular e-card membership and an RM50 gift voucher. <\/p><p>Readers are encouraged to vote for their favourite fiction and non-fiction titles on Popular’s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.popular.com.my\/\">website<\/a>, the BookFest @ Malaysia <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bookfestmalaysia.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">website<\/a> or Popular Malaysia’s Facebook page from now till March 2.  <\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3797116,"np_article_id":1562320,"article_title":"TOWARDS A NEW ERA OF CULINARY EXCELLENCE","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"UniFood25\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"starpicks\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/21\\\/towards-a-new-era-of-culinary-excellence\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"21-02-2025 10:04:41\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"28-02-2025 10:04:41\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"1332\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"Ogilvy 21Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IN a world where sustainability and community are at the forefront of consumer consciousness, the culinary industry is undergoing a profound shift.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"off\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"off\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"5\",\"initial_publication\":\"StarLifestyle\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-21 10:23:50\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-21 11:33:57\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"5\"}","publish_time":"2025-02-21 00:00:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\"image_path\":\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/21\\\/3178122.jpg\",\"cms_type\":\"live\",\"small_image\":\"\",\"is_updated\":\"0\",\"image_cropping\":\"{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":3840,\\\"image_original_height\\\":2160,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}}\",\"is_copied\":\"0\",\"media_type\":\"0\",\"image_caption\":\"A+bold+twist+on+comfort+food%2C+the+Classic+Roasted+Chicken+features+fragrant+torch+ginger+buttermilk+sauce+served+alongside+a+rich%2C+aromatic+rendang%2C+for+a+flavourful+experince.\",\"image_count\":8}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/21\/towards-a-new-era-of-culinary-excellence","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><strong>Unilever Food Solutions empowers chefs to innovate, elevate their menus and drive business success with its Future Menus 2024 Report<\/strong><\/p><p>IN a world where sustainability and community are at the forefront of consumer consciousness, the culinary industry is undergoing a profound shift.<\/p><p>Diners increasingly seek food that not only tantalises their taste buds but also tells a story of provenance, sustainability and innovation.<\/p><p>The concept of local abundance, which champions the use of locally sourced ingredients, is reshaping menus and redefining the way chefs and foodservice operators connect with their diners.<\/p><p>Unilever Food Solutions (UFS) has captured the essence of this trend in its Future Menus 2024 Report, a comprehensive guide to the future of dining. This report is a roadmap for chefs and food operators, offering actionable insights to stay ahead in a competitive industry.<\/p><p><img alt=\"The Cumin Lamb Chops with Smoked Curry Sauce brings together the best of traditional Malay flavours and contemporary plating.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/21\/3178121.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 349px;\" \/><\/p><p>Showcased at the Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2024, the report has become a beacon for professionals keen to align with evolving consumer preferences while creating memorable dining experiences.<\/p><p>Now in its second edition, the Future Menus report by UFS simplifies the process for full-service restaurant (FSR) operators to identify emerging trends and implement practical strategies to elevate their menus.<\/p><p>UFS launched the 2024 trends through a series of global events, attracting thousands of key decision-makers and partners from across the FSR industry.<\/p><p><strong>Rise of local abundance<\/strong><\/p><p>The local abundance trend highlights the immense potential of embracing local ingredients to enhance sustainability, support regional producers and craft dishes with authentic flavours. This approach resonates deeply with today’s diners, who value transparency and community support.<\/p><p>Locally sourced ingredients not only reduce carbon footprints by minimising food miles but also foster meaningful collaborations with local farmers and producers. These relationships, in turn, allow chefs to curate menus that reflect the richness of their locale.<\/p><p>According to the Future Menus 2024 report, chefs can elevate traditional dishes by blending global techniques with local ingredients, resulting in creations that excite diners with a fusion of familiarity and novelty.<\/p><p>For instance, a classic Malaysian rendang could be reimagined as a creamy sauce accompanying roasted chicken, or the bold flavours of tom yam could be infused into Italian fettuccine for a unique cross-cultural experience.<\/p><p><img alt=\"Chef Hadzrin plays a pivotal role in the Future Menus 2024 report, offers insights into the local abudance trend that will serve as an inspiration to chefs and restaurateurs alike.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/21\/3178118.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 349px;\" \/><\/p><p>The benefits of sourcing local ingredients extend beyond sustainability. They provide chefs with fresher, high-quality produce that enhances flavour profiles and showcases the richness of a region’s culinary heritage.<\/p><p>“Embracing menu trends for local abundance not only celebrates unique flavours but also supports local farmers and producers,” says Chef Hadzrin Mohd-Din, an expert chef at Unilever Food Solutions Malaysia.<\/p><p>“It allows us to create dishes that are both delicious and sustainable.”<\/p><p>Chef Hadzrin’s career spans over two decades, during which he has honed his expertise in Asian and Malay cuisine. His insights into the local abundance trend underscore its relevance in Malaysia, a country renowned for its rich culinary traditions and diverse ingredients.<\/p><p><strong>Contemporary yet classic<\/strong><\/p><p>One of the key strategies highlighted in the report is the art of reinventing traditional dishes using modern culinary techniques and locally sourced components. This not only honours heritage but also ensures dishes remain relevant to contemporary palates.<\/p><p>Take for instance these standout recipes inspired by the local abundance trend and demonstrate how chefs can seamlessly integrate local ingredients into global culinary frameworks, creating dishes that are both innovative and steeped in tradition.<\/p><p>The Future Menus Reports turns the spotlight on fusion surprise offerings such as:<\/p><p>> Fettuccine Tom Yam Arrabiata, a fusion of Italian and Thai-Malay influences, which combines the spicy tanginess of tom yam with the rich, tomato-based arrabiata sauce. The addition of local herbs such as kaffir lime leaves elevates the dish into a bold yet familiar culinary adventure; > Cumin Lamb Chops with Smoked Curry Sauce which features tender lamb chops marinated in cumin, and is paired with a smoked curry sauce crafted from locally sourced spices. It brings together the best of traditional Malay flavours and contemporary plating; and > Classic Roasted Chicken with Creamy Kantan Buttermilk Sauce and Rendang, an innovative take on a comfort classic that uses creamy kantan (torch ginger flower) to enhance a buttermilk sauce, served alongside a rich, aromatic rendang sauce for a flavourful and multi-textured experience.<\/p><p><strong>Practical benefits for food operators<\/strong><\/p><p>The Future Menus 2024 Report offers not just inspiration but also practical strategies for foodservice operators.<\/p><p>By identifying and leveraging trends such as local abundance, chefs and restaurateurs can enhance their operations in several ways including:<\/p><p><strong>> Sustainability: <\/strong>Sourcing locally reduces the environmental impact of transportation and packaging.<\/p><p><strong>> Cost-effectiveness:<\/strong> Local ingredients often cost less due to reduced logistics and import fees.<\/p><p><strong>> Seasonal appeal:<\/strong> Seasonal menus create excitement among diners and offer marketing opportunities.<\/p><p><strong>> Customer loyalty: <\/strong>Diners increasingly prefer establishments that support local communities and reflect their values.<\/p><p>The report underscores how food operators can use these advantages to strengthen their business models while staying aligned with evolving consumer demands.<\/p><p>The insights from the report are the result of extensive research, including social media analytics across 21 countries and feedback from over 1,600 chefs worldwide.<\/p><p><img alt=\"The Fettuccine Tom Yam Arrabiata dish that blends Italian and Thai-Malay flavours, pairing spicy tom yam with bold arrabiata sauce.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/21\/3178130.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 526px;\" \/><\/p><p>By distilling this data into eight actionable trends – including modernised comfort food, plant-powered protein, feel-good food and low-waste menus – UFS provides chefs with a toolkit to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry.<\/p><p>The local abundance trend, in particular, represents an area of significant growth. Diners are not just seeking sustenance but a connection to their food and its origins.<\/p><p>For chefs, this means an opportunity to create dishes that are not only memorable but also meaningful.<\/p><p>At the Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2024, UFS hosted an immersive activation to showcase the transformative potential of its Future Menus report.<\/p><p>This event brought together culinary leaders, educators and emerging talent to explore how the trends could be implemented in their respective fields.<\/p><p>For seasoned professionals, the report provides a way to refine their menus and operations. For young chefs, it serves as a source of inspiration, encouraging them to think creatively about how they can incorporate local ingredients into their culinary practices.<\/p><p>The Future Menus 2024 Report is more than a trend guide; it is a call to action for culinary professionals to innovate while staying grounded in sustainability and community values.<\/p><p>It is an invitation to embrace the flavours of your own region, celebrate local producers and create dining experiences that resonate with the modern diners. It is an essential guide for those seeking to stay ahead of the curve.<\/p><p>Click <a href=\"https:\/\/www.unileverfoodsolutions.com.my\/en\/future-menus-2024.html\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a> to download a copy and be part of the movement to shape the future of food – one local ingredient at a time.<\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3796907,"np_article_id":1562025,"article_title":"LBS achieves 11-year high PATMI","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"LBS, LBS Bina Group Bhd, Property, Development, PATMI, StarPicks\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"starpicks\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/20\\\/lbs-achieves-11-year-high-patmi\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"20-02-2025 20:12:28\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"27-02-2025 20:12:28\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"610\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"LBS Bina 20Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"LBS Bina Group Bhd a developer guided by people-first values, today announced its unaudited financial results for the full year ended Dec 31 2024 (FYE2024), achieving an 11-year high profit after tax and non-controlling interests (PATMI) from continuing operations of RM240.2mil.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-20 20:12:28\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-20 21:54:22\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-20 20:12:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/20\\\/3177520.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1220,\\\"image_original_height\\\":827,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/20\/lbs-achieves-11-year-high-patmi","show_image_in_thumb":3177520,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>LBS Bina Group Bhd a developer guided by people-first values, today announced its unaudited financial results for the full year ended Dec 31 2024 (FYE2024), achieving an 11-year high profit after tax and non-controlling interests (PATMI) from continuing operations of RM240.2mil.<\/p><p>The group’s outstanding PATMI was 63.5% higher compared to the preceding year’s RM146.9mil, largely driven by its strategic realignment and portfolio optimisation exercise, with the disposal of its investment in Zhuhai International Circuit Limited (ZIC).<\/p><p>This disposal, aimed at unlocking its inherent value, resulted in a one-off gain after tax of approximately RM156mil, hence significantly strengthened LBS financial performance.<\/p><p>In addition, improved operational efficiency contributed to the group’s overall performance, reinforced by its on-going focus on cost management measures in sustaining growth and financial stability.<\/p><p>Revenue for the year was RM1.43bil, predominantly derived from the property development segment which contributed RM1.37bil or 95.6% of FYE2024’s total revenue.<\/p><p>Building on its exceptional FYE2024 financial performance and with a focus on accelerating growth, LBS has recently unveiled its ambitious ‘8 x 8 Strategy’, spanning from 2025 to 2027.<\/p><p>This corporate roadmap outlines the group’s commitment to launch a pipeline of development projects valued at RM8bil, leveraging the group’s sizeable landbank of 1,533 hectares (3,789 acres) as at Dec 31, 2024.<\/p><p><img alt=\"Centrum Iris introduces innovative features such as electric vehicle (EV) charging bays underscoring LBS commitment to sustainable living.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3177516.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 827px;\" \/><\/p><p>As part of this roadmap, LBS launched Centrum Iris, the second precinct of Cameron Centrum and largest mixed-use commercial development in Cameron Highlands, in Jan 2025.<\/p><p>Centrum Iris is certified GreenRE Silver, which underscores the group’s dedication to green sustainability living.<\/p><p>With a gross development value of RM472mil, Centrum Iris is set to elevate the area’s commercial landscape while reinforcing LBS position in the property market.<\/p><p>To support its growth trajectory, LBS has recently successfully issued the second tranche of the Asean Social SRI Sukuk Wakalah, raising RM400mil.<\/p><p>The proceeds from the second tranche will fund the group’s upcoming development projects, especially affordable housing, community development programmes and projects that promote sustainability.<\/p><p><img alt=\"Lim is confident that LBS focused strategy and strong financial position will drive continued growth and success.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3177515.jpeg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 931px;\" \/><\/p><p>LBS group executive chairman Tan Sri Ir Dr Lim Hock San said, “We remain cautiously optimistic about the future.<\/p><p>“The divestment of ZIC has sharpened our focus on core strengths, strengthened our financial position, and built a strong capital reserve for potential strategic investments ahead.<\/p><p>“Guided by our 8 x 8 Strategy, we are redefining property development through innovation, creating sustainable communities that enhance lifestyles and meet market demand.<\/p><p>“With strong market response, RM1.68bil in unbilled sales, and accelerating sales of Centrum Iris, we are confident in strengthening our position as a leading developer and driving continued success.”<\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3796752,"np_article_id":1561536,"article_title":"The Balvenie Honours Half A Century Of Craftmanship With Rare Release","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"The Balvenie Honours Half A Century Of Craftmanship With Rare Release\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"The Balvenie\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"lifestyle\\\/living\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/20\\\/the-balvenie-honours-half-a-century-of-craftmanship-with-rare-release\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"One of the distillery's rarest releases to date, The Balvenie Fifty Collection is a trilogy of Scotch whiskies that celebrate its dedication to craftsmanship.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"0\",\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-20 13:06:42\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-20 13:29:33\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Michael Cheang Siong Chuin\",\"section_color\":\"#c84cdb\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"0\"}","publish_time":"2025-02-20 13:00:00","sub_section_id":38,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/20\\\/3176580.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":8093,\\\"image_original_height\\\":4552,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"One+of+the+distillery%E2%80%99s+rarest+releases+to+date%2C+The+Balvenie+Fifty+Collection+is+a+trilogy+of+Scotch+whiskies+that+celebrate+its+dedication+to+craftsmanship.+%E2%80%94+Photos%3A+The+Balvenie\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":152,"section_name":"Lifestyle","sub_section_name":"Living","permalink":"lifestyle\/living\/2025\/02\/20\/the-balvenie-honours-half-a-century-of-craftmanship-with-rare-release","show_image_in_thumb":3176580,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":\"3176580\"}","article_body":"<p>What does 50 years in a cask do to a whisky? In the case of The Balvenie Fifty Collection, it does more than just impart flavour to the liquid – it nurtures, enhances, and ultimately, celebrates the exceptional spirit that The Balvenie produces.<\/p><p>One of its rarest releases to date, The Balvenie Fifty Collection is a seamless trilogy of Scotch whiskies that represent the interwoven stories of craftsmanship at the Speyside distillery over the last 50 years.<\/p><p>With only 125 bottles released annually over the next three years, the collection started with the First Edition, a unique single cask expression (cask number 8720), aged in a European oak refill butt, filled in 1973 and selected by Malt Master, Kelsey McKechnie.<\/p><p>For the Second Edition, McKechnie introduced a second American oak hogshead cask filled in 1973 to marry with the first; before adding a third American oak barrel filled in a 1974 cask to the marriage for the final Edition.<\/p><p><img alt=\"The collection started with the First Edition, a unique single cask expression (cask number 8720), aged in a European oak refill butt, filled in 1973.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3176584.png\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 400px; height: 455px;\" \/><\/p><p>Back in 1973, The Balvenie’s craftspeople, led by the former Malt Master David Stewart, came together to fill the cask that would become the First Edition.<\/p><p>Many of those craftspeople still work for The Balvenie today; through their dedication to the brand’s five rare crafts, many new practices in whisky making have been put in place over the last half a century.<\/p><p>The discovery of cask finishings is one of the most poignant, and today, McKechnie continues this legacy with her approach to marrying and remarrying of casks creating a signature flavour profile across The Balvenie Collection that is complex and unique to each Edition.<\/p><p><img alt=\"Each Edition in this collection is a testament to the craftsmanship that has defined The Balvenie\u2019s liquid over the past 50 years.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3176583.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 400px; height: 400px;\" \/><\/p><p>According to McKechnie, each Edition in this collection is a testament to the craftsmanship that has defined The Balvenie’s liquid over the past 50 years.<\/p><p>“The unique characteristics of these rare casks come together to create a truly exceptional experience and set a new benchmark for our contribution to the rare and extraordinary whisky market at Balvenie,” she said in a press release.<\/p><p>“Using a refill butt for the First Edition in this collection provides us with a distinctive flavour thread that will run through our next two releases, demonstrating the spectrum of flavours and aromas in our aged spirit.<\/p><p>“It is a celebration of our legacy, our passion, and our unwavering commitment to producing some of the finest whiskies in the world,” she added.<\/p><p><img alt=\"The First Edition of The Balvenie Fifty Collection showcases the depth and complexity of the spirit influenced by the European oak cask.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3176581.png\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 400px; height: 455px;\" \/><\/p><p>The First Edition of The Balvenie Fifty Collection showcases the depth and complexity of the spirit influenced by the European oak cask whilst maintaining The Balvenie's classic sweet honey style, even after fifty years of maturation.<\/p><p>On the nose, expect aromas of deep fruits, cassis and candied apricots, layered atop delicate cedar and a warming nutty spice.<\/p><p>On the palate, the whisky presents flavours of caramelised fruits, rich spice and soft vanilla, which marry together with a delicate ginger spice and citrus zing.<\/p><p><img alt=\"The exquisite packaging is developed by Croglin; a bespoke craft workshop based in Cumbria.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3176582.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 400px; height: 400px;\" \/><\/p><p>The Balvenie Fifty Collection is enhanced further by the exquisite packaging developed by Croglin; a bespoke craft workshop based in Cumbria.<\/p><p>Each presentation contains over 100 different elements, including four layers of wood in the helix structure with a tolerance for error of less than 1\/10th of a millimetre, and a beautifully crafted 14-carat gold-plated brass display.<\/p><p>The Balvenie Fifty First Edition was first launched in Britain on Aug 7, 2024, before being available in select retailers worldwide. The Second Edition and Third Edition will launch in 2025 and 2026.<\/p><p><strong>For more information about The Balvenie’s entire range, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/thebalvenie.com\/en-my\/our-whisky-collection\/old-and-precious\/fifty\/\" target=\"_blank\">The Balvenie<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"MICHAEL CHEANG","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3796745,"np_article_id":1561521,"article_title":"Fake certifications, real consequences","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"SIRIM, SIRIM QAS International, MS 224, MS 224 certification, Retreaded Tyres, Safety, Digital Advertorial, StarPicks\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"20-02-2025 13:06:28\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"27-02-2025 13:06:28\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"606\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"SIRIM 20Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"AT first glance, they look like any other tyres \\u2013 stamped with the familiar SIRIM mark, a supposed seal of quality and safety. But beneath the deceptive label lies a dangerous truth.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-20 12:58:53\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-20 13:07:30\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"#F50404\",\"target_page\":null,\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-20 12:58:00","sub_section_id":2,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/20\\\/3176557.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1200,\\\"image_original_height\\\":854,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"SIRIM+QAS+International+enforces+compliance+with+the+MS+224+standard%2C+ensuring+that+only+retreaded+tyres+meeting+strict+safety+criteria+are+on+the+roads.+\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":1,"section_name":"News","sub_section_name":"Nation","permalink":"news\/nation\/2025\/02\/20\/fake-certifications-real-consequences","show_image_in_thumb":3176557,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"SIRIM QAS International enforces compliance with the MS 224 standard, ensuring that only retreaded tyres meeting strict safety criteria are on the roads.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3176557.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 441px;\" \/><\/p><p>AT first glance, they look like any other tyres – stamped with the familiar SIRIM mark, a supposed seal of quality and safety. But beneath the deceptive label lies a dangerous truth.<\/p><p>Recent crackdowns by Malaysian authorities have exposed a troubling trade in counterfeit-certified retreaded tyres, churned out in illegal factories and sold to unsuspecting drivers.<\/p><p>These substandard tyres, never tested or approved, pose a silent yet deadly risk on the roads – prone to sudden failure, with the potential to turn an ordinary drive into a catastrophic accident.<\/p><p><strong>The real cost<\/strong><\/p><p>In 2019, the Works Ministry reported that up to 10,000 accidents were attributed to these tyres, many of which failed to meet national safety standards.<\/p><p>While properly certified retreaded tyres can be a safe and cost-effective alternative to new ones, the presence of uncertified products in the market poses a significant risk to motorists.<\/p><p>Inferior materials can compromise structural integrity, leading to premature failure and heightened accident risks. Untested tyres may not perform well under road conditions, affecting grip, braking, and stability.<\/p><p><strong>Keeping roads safe<\/strong><\/p><p>SIRIM QAS International – a conformity assessment body under SIRIM Berhad and the competent authority appointed by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN), is on a mission to ensure that every retreaded tyre rolling onto Malaysian roads is safe by calling for the strict compliance to MS 224: retreaded pneumatic tyres.<\/p><p>Certified retreaded tyres go through a detailed inspection process, including pressure testing and quality checks, to guarantee top safety and performance standards.<\/p><p>The retreading process itself involves a thorough casing inspection, buffing, bonding, and curing to restore the tyre’s structural integrity, ensuring it’s as good as new.<\/p><p>When compliant with MS 224 standards, these tyres deliver impressive safety and performance, offering a cost-effective, eco-friendly option that doesn't compromise on road safety.<\/p><p>To maintain certification, SIRIM monitors products both at the factory level and in the market. As part of their market surveillance programme, certified tyres are randomly pulled from the market for stringent testing, ensuring ongoing compliance.<\/p><p>Any manufacturer caught cutting corners faces immediate suspension or has their license terminated.<\/p><p><strong>Identifying genuine SIRIM-certified retreaded tyres<\/strong><\/p><p>To combat the rise of counterfeit tyres, SIRIM QAS International has outlined key identification markers for consumers and authorities:<\/p><p><strong>> SIRIM logo and certification number:<\/strong> All certified tyres must display an official SIRIM logo and unique licence number.<\/p><p><strong>> Manufacturer’s name or brand:<\/strong> Only licensed manufacturers are authorised to use the SIRIM mark.<\/p><p><strong>> Date of retreading:<\/strong> This indicates when the tyre was processed and certified.<\/p><p><strong>> Technical specifications:<\/strong> Includes details such as tyre size and load rating.<\/p><p>For added security, consumers can verify the legitimacy of a retreaded tyre by entering its certification licence number on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.malaysiancertified.com.my\" target=\"_blank\">www.malaysiancertified.com.my<\/a>.<\/p><p>This database provides detailed information on the manufacturer, factory location, certified product list, and the validity of certification.<\/p><p><img alt=\"To battle counterfeit retreaded tyres, consumers should look for the SIRIM logo, certification number, manufacturer and retreading date.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3176558.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 391px;\" \/><\/p><p><strong>The road to safer tyres<\/strong><\/p><p>For businesses seeking to comply with MS 224, SIRIM QAS International provides expert guidance on obtaining certification. The process involves:<\/p><ol><li>Submitting an application via the ESCIS portal at <a href=\"https:\/\/escis.sirim.my\" target=\"_blank\">escis.sirim.my<\/a> or the SIRIM QAS International website.<\/li><li>Undergoing factory audits and product testing – to ensure compliance with MS 224 safety standards.<\/li><li>Receiving a SIRIM product certification licence – upon successful evaluation, the product is officially recognised as roadworthy.<\/li><li>Public registration – certified manufacturers and products are listed <a href=\"https:\/\/www.malaysiancertified.com.my\/\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a> on Malaysian Certified for public verification.<\/li><\/ol><p><img alt=\"Ahmad Sabirin said meeting the MS 224 standard for retreaded tyres ensures safety beyond compliance.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3176559.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 400px; height: 400px;\" \/><\/p><p>SIRIM Berhad president and group chief executive officer Datuk Ahmad Sabirin Arshad reinforced the organisation’s commitment to road safety.<\/p><p>“Ensuring that retreaded tyres meet the MS 224 standard is not just about regulatory compliance; it is about prioritising the safety of all road users.<\/p><p>“SIRIM remains committed to upholding the highest standards in product certification to protect consumers and enhance industry credibility,” he said.<\/p><p><strong>The way forward<\/strong><\/p><p>Road safety is a collective responsibility and ensuring compliance with MS 224 isn’t just a recommendation – it’s a necessity. A quick verification check can mean the difference between a smooth ride and a fatal accident.<\/p><p>SIRIM QAS International is calling on consumers and industry players to report any suspicious products or misuse of the SIRIM mark.<\/p><p>These reports can be submitted through their official communication channels, helping to crack down on fraudulent practices.<\/p><p><strong>For more information on MS 224 certification and consumer safety, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sirim-qas.com.my\/\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/www.sirim-qas.com.my\/<\/a><\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3796619,"np_article_id":1561359,"article_title":"IOI Properties Group launches second phase of Conezion Commercial","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"StarPicks, Digital Advertorial, IOI Properties Group Bhd, IOIPG, IOI, Conezion Commercial, IOI Resort City, IOI City Mall, Buy with Tenant, Ho Kwok Wing, Nicole Lee, Property, Putrajaya, Southern Klang Valley\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"20-02-2025 07:52:35\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"27-02-2025 07:52:35\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"772\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"Dynamic 20Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IOI Properties Group Bhd (IOIPG) is opening its second phase of Conezion Commercial at IOI Resort City, offering an additional 160 units of shop lots and offices to the market.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-20 07:52:34\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-20 07:56:22\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"target_page\":null,\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-20 07:52:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/20\\\/3176316.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":997,\\\"image_original_height\\\":556,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"Conezion+Commercial+Phase+2+presents+a+golden+investment+opportunity+with+160+units+of+five-storey+strata+shops+and+offices+offering+high+visibility+and+prime+frontage.\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/20\/ioi-properties-group-launches-second-phase-of-conezion-commercial","show_image_in_thumb":3176316,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"Conezion Commercial Phase 2 presents a golden investment opportunity with 160 units of five-storey strata shops and offices offering high visibility and prime frontage.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3176316.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 346px;\" \/><\/p><p>IOI Properties Group Bhd (IOIPG) is opening its second phase of Conezion Commercial at IOI Resort City, offering an additional 160 units of shop lots and offices to the market.<\/p><p>This was in response to the overwhelming demand for Phase 1, where 90% of units offered were sold within 12 months.<\/p><p>The launch event for Conezion Commercial Phase 2 will be held on March 1-2 at Starbucks in Block A1.<\/p><p>Visitors can enjoy exciting activities such as a feng shui sharing session by Supreme Fortunity Sdn Bhd’s Master Suyen Lim, a zodiac clay workshop and more.<\/p><p>Located just 700m from IOI City Mall in Putrajaya – touted as Malaysia’s largest mall with an annual footfall of 20 million visitors – Conezion Commercial is a sizeable integrated development comprising a total of 424 shop and office units, with close to 1,000,000sq ft of net floor area.<\/p><p>Featuring an elegant 4.5m cantilevered terrace overlooking the Palm Garden Golf Course, the development enjoys high visibility with direct frontage to Lebuhraya Putrajaya-Dengkil-KLIA and connectivity to the South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE).<\/p><p>Conezion Commercial is supported by more than 2,000 car park bays with lifts and escalators serving the development.<\/p><p>A new access road directly connecting to Uniten Putrajaya campus is currently under construction, offering accessibility to more than 7,000 university students upon completion, on top of the existing catchment population.<\/p><p>“Conezion Commercial is our first integrated commercial development at IOI Resort City,” said IOIPG central region property development director Ho Kwok Wing.<\/p><p>“Fully completed with an existing occupancy rate close to 70%, this thriving commercial hub is managed by our award-winning IOI leasing team, boasting an impressive lineup of existing tenants including international brands like Starbucks, Watsons, Carsome, Peugeot, Mazda and more, alongside a very mature office community.<\/p><p>“With its sizeable scale, prime accessibility and steady footfall from onsite residential components and surroundings, Conezion Commercial presents a golden investment opportunity in a growing address.<\/p><p>“Purchasers can enjoy the security of having immediate rental returns by buying completed units that come with ready tenants while benefiting from future appreciation, fueled by the proposed expansion plan that IOIPG has put in place for IOI Resort City.”<\/p><p><img alt=\"The commercial hub\u2019s interior roads enhance its dual frontage concept while promoting al fresco retail opportunities, with surface parking and a centre courtyard ensuring convenience for customers.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/20\/3176315.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 352px;\" \/><\/p><p><strong>Potential upside from expansion<\/strong><\/p><p>Conezion Commercial’s catchment population and commercial potential are set to grow even further with the township’s next stage of planned development.<\/p><p>Complementing its vibrant existing retail, leisure and residential offerings, plans for the second phase include 1,000,000sq ft net of lettable area expansion for IOI City Mall, a proposed 10,000 capacity concert hall, a 68-storey iconic tower with office components and a luxury international hospital brand – all within walking distance to Conezion Commercial.<\/p><p>Along with a wide range of infrastructure upgrades, the planned expansion positions IOI Resort City as a premier integrated lifestyle destination in Southern Klang Valley, enjoying a higher visitor footfall and a growing resident and working population.<\/p><p>“The launch of Phase 2 represents a golden opportunity to find your nest egg at Conezion Commercial if you missed your chance in Phase 1,” said IOIPG group sales and marketing and branding head Nicole Lee.<\/p><p>“With the upcoming expansion plan in IOI Resort City and IOIPG’s Buy with Tenant programme – which provides immediate rental income of up to 7% without the hassle of tenant hunting – investing has never been so easy.<\/p><p>“Phase 2 offers some of our best tenants in the unit selection, such as Starbucks, Watsons, MyNews, emart24, Zus Coffee, Tealive and Gloria Jean’s Coffee, to name a few.<\/p><p>“There are also units available for own use, so you can talk to our sales consultants today to grab the chance at becoming a landlord of these premium brands and take part in the growth story of IOI Resort City.”<\/p><p>Buyers seeking commercial units at Conezion Commercial for own use can leverage the expansive built-ups from 1,292sq ft to 7,244sq ft for shop lots and 1,539sq ft to 4,273sq ft for office spaces, with versatile open layouts conducive for a wide range of business and enterprise needs.<\/p><p>Units in Phase 2 are located in Block A, L, M and N, offering prime visibility to surrounding roads such as Lebuhraya Putrajaya-Dengkil-KLIA and Persiaran IRC 3.<\/p><p>All four blocks feature five-storey freehold strata shop and office units served by a lift, with Block L, M and N offering units overlooking Lebuhraya Putrajaya-Dengkil-KLIA.<\/p><p>The commercial hub’s interior roads enhance its dual frontage concept while promoting al fresco retail opportunities, with surface parking and a centre courtyard ensuring convenience for customers.<\/p><p>Owners, visitors and residents alike benefit from the pull factors of IOI Resort City and its surrounding areas, including IOI Resort City Central Park, Hospital Serdang and more.<\/p><p>Conezion Commercial’s strategic location delivers connectivity to numerous major routes, including SKVE, Damansara Puchong Expressway and North-South Expressway, along with a large catchment population from surrounding areas such as Putrajaya, Cyberjaya, Kajang, Bangi, Seri Kembangan, Puchong and Sepang.<\/p><p><strong>To learn more about Conezion Commercial, click <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ioiproperties.com.my\/ioi-resort-city\/conezion-commercial?utm_source=thestar&utm_medium=digital_advertorial&utm_campaign=conezioncomm_Feb25\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a> or call 03-8328 2129 to arrange a unit viewing.<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3796319,"np_article_id":1560742,"article_title":"Lim Kit Siang: A visionary ahead of the times","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/comment\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/19\\\/lim-kit-siang-a-visionary-ahead-of-the-times\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"One of the first things I did when I became a Member of Parliament in 2013 was to read Lim Kit Siang's book \\\"Time Bombs in Malaysia: Problems of Nation-building in Malaysia\\\".\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":479,\"columns\":\"479_1564649572\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-19 15:05:31\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-19 18:00:36\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Johan bin Mohd Hulaimi\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-19 15:05:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\"image_path\":\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/19\\\/3175199.jpg\",\"cms_type\":\"live\",\"small_image\":\"\",\"is_updated\":\"0\",\"image_cropping\":\"{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":720,\\\"image_original_height\\\":480,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}}\",\"is_copied\":\"0\",\"media_type\":\"0\",\"image_caption\":\"Steven+Sim+Chee+Keong%2C+Human+Resources+Minister.\",\"image_count\":1}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/comment\/2025\/02\/19\/lim-kit-siang-a-visionary-ahead-of-the-times","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>ONE of the first things I did when I became a Member of Parliament in 2013 was to read Lim Kit Siang's book <em>Time Bombs in Malaysia: Problems of Nation-building in Malaysia<\/em>.<\/p><p>The book was a compilation of his debate speeches in Parliament throughout the 1970s, following a dark 21-month period Parliament was suspended after the May 13, 1969 incident.<\/p><p>Since then, I have encouraged new MPs and state assemblymen to read the book – soak up the issues, the trains of thought, the meticulous research, the articulation. This is the quality a DAP wakil rakyat's debate should aspire to.<\/p><p>Reading the book gave me a strange sense of reversed deja vu – what I read from a book written decades before sounded very similar to what I read in the news yesterday.<\/p><p>The names and figures might be different but the issues were the same.<\/p><p><strong>The Malaysian labour market in the 1970s<\/strong><\/p><p>In 1973, amidst booming petrol prices, inflation in Malaysia shot up so much that by the end of the year, the then-finance minister Tun Tan Siew Sin declared inflation to be \"our number one economic problem\".<\/p><p>When Parliament convened to debate the Budget in December that year, the Bandar Melaka MP, a 32-year-old Lim, in his usual eloquence called on the Government to implement several \"anti-inflationary\" measures in the Budget.<\/p><p>Other than fiscal restructuring and tax reform measures, Lim pushed for more drastic labour market reforms to be implemented.<\/p><p>The logic was obvious – any economic reforms must empower ordinary Malaysians, the workers.<\/p><p>In his own words: \"Economic growth and prosperity must be translated into personal terms for every Malaysian, particularly the poor.\"<\/p><p>At that time, unemployment was high and wages were low.<\/p><p>Against reports that there was a labour shortage, Lim succinctly said: \"What Malaysia has is not a labour shortage – with our 8% unemployment rate – but cheap labour shortage.\"<\/p><p>As such, Lim called on the Government to increase allowances for public sector workers, implement minimum wage policy for private sector workers, ensure better social security and arrest brain drain, among others.<\/p><p>One must remember this speech was made more than half a century ago, demonstrating that his vision was ahead of his time.<\/p><p>About half a year later, Lim stood up in Parliament to move a private member's bill to introduce a basic living wage for workers.<\/p><p>Dr Chen Man Hin, Lim and the DAP have been advocating for a minimum wage since the early 70s.<\/p><p>This was, in Lim's words, \"to prevent capitalist exploitation of cheap labour\".<\/p><p>In fact, he criticised Malaysian ministers at that time who went overseas to attract foreign investment with the offer of \"very cheap and docile labour, where the capitalists are allowed free rein in their exploitation of labour.\"<\/p><p>He argued that: \"the enactment of minimum legislation would be an instrument to ensure a fairer distribution of incomes from the fruits of economic development for the workers.\"<\/p><p>In July 1976, Lim also championed a new anti-discrimination at work legislation \"to confer upon an employee the right not to be unfairly dismissed, whether it is for reasons of race, colour, marital status, religion, political opinion…\"<\/p><p>This not only stemmed from his steadfast commitment towards ensuring job security for workers but also his firm belief in a just Malaysian society, regardless of race, religion and social class.<\/p><p><strong>Building on Lim Kit Siang's legacy<\/strong><\/p><p>When I became an MP in 2013, on the one hand, I felt proud to be the latest in the long line of tradition where DAP MPs stood up in Parliament to speak for the people in the august hall.<\/p><p>My maiden speech in Parliament on June 26, 2013, addressed the issue of unemployment, underemployment, women in the labour force and social security.<\/p><p>On the other hand, mindful of this privilege to stand on the shoulders of giants like Dr Chen Man Hin, P. Patto, Karpal Singh and Lim Kit Siang, I was extremely humbled.<\/p><p>Then about one year ago, I was appointed Human Resources Minister.<\/p><p>I know this was my opportunity to implement what we have been preaching, tracing back 50 years to when a young Lim Kit Siang stood in Parliament.<\/p><p>I laid down a vision for the 15,000-strong staff in the Human Resources Ministry (Kesuma):<\/p><p><em>Every worker in Malaysia can go to work in an honourable environment, receive a dignified compensation and at the end of every work day, every worker in Malaysia can go home safely to be with their family and loved ones.<\/em><\/p><p>To achieve these objectives, Kesuma in the last year moved eight major labour legislations to improve wages, increase social security, strengthen occupational safety and health, promote union movement, provide more training opportunities for workers and protect workers' rights.<\/p><p>When Lim spoke in 1973, unemployment was almost 8%. Unemployment today is at a ten-year low of 3.1%.<\/p><p>Not only does Malaysia now have a minimum wage law, we also recently increased the minimum wage by RM200 per month. This was complemented by other wage growth strategies such as the Progressive Wage Policy, stronger collective bargaining power through labour unions and upskilling efforts to improve productivity.<\/p><p>Civil service salary was also increased after 12 years of stagnation.<\/p><p>Kesuma is targeting to table a historic gig workers law in two weeks to ensure protection for workers in the new economy emerging out of new technology of the 21st century. We would be one of the earliest countries to do so globally, demonstrating Malaysia's commitment towards justice for workers.<\/p><p>In July 1976, Lim first called for legislation on anti-discrimination at work to be enacted in Parliament. Exactly 48 years later in July 2024, I tabled the amendment to the Sabah Labour Ordinance and later the Sarawak Labour Ordinance so that now, we have anti-discrimination clauses writ into all three labour legislations in the country, namely the Employment Act for Peninsular Malaysia, the Sabah Labour Ordinance and the Sarawak Labour Ordinance.<\/p><p><strong>Carrying the torch in our generation<\/strong><\/p><p>Lim Kit Siang served as an MP for 48 years. Through these years, he not only became the archetype of a fearless politician who gave voice to the voiceless, he also became a model MP whose debate speeches were exemplary of articulate and forceful yet well-researched, no-nonsense oration.<\/p><p>But Lim himself never became a minister or a deputy minister.<\/p><p>One question I am often asked – \"<em>Is Lim Kit Siang qualified to be a minister?<\/em>\"<\/p><p>I am convinced Lim is more than qualified to be one. Yes, he may have been known as \"Mr Opposition\" throughout his career in politics but the vision he had half a century ago eventually became the defining policies and laws of our times. That itself is a vindication of both his foresight and ability to be part of the governing leadership.<\/p><p>Yet he did not become a minister. He had an opportunity in 2018, being part of the leadership of Pakatan Harapan during the historic regime change in Malaysia. Instead, he gave way to younger leaders and eventually announced his retirement from frontline politics.<\/p><p>The magnanimity is clear, and also the selfless spirit. He covets neither power nor position, always putting the nation's interests above his own.<\/p><p>After winning 16 Parliamentary seats in the 1978 General Election, the biggest ever by an Opposition party in Malaysia up to that time, there were rumours that DAP was in negotiation to join the government.<\/p><p>Dispelling those rumours, Lim wrote: \"We in the DAP are reasonable people. But we will be firm and  unyielding in a reasonable way. We will seek, for the interests of the country and for the future of our children, to make the government see our point of view, to understand the people's deepest hopes and dreams. We will do this by speaking up inside and outside Parliament and the state assemblies and in meetings with the Prime Minister and other government leaders. We will do so, <em>not to ask for minister or deputy minister posts or to get entry into the ruling coalition<\/em>, but to change thinking and assessments by all political leaders on basic problems of the nation.\" (emphasis own)<\/p><p>This is the value we, the younger generation members of DAP, inherited from Lim Kit Siang.<\/p><p>Value encapsulated in his own words:<\/p><p style=\"margin-left: 40px;\">\"We in the DAP are Malaysian patriots from all racial backgrounds, who want to see the preservation and strengthening of a democratic political system, where every citizen has an equal stake in the political and economic future of the country, with the right to lead a meaningful life and ample opportunities to achieve self-fulfilment.<\/p><p style=\"margin-left: 40px;\">It is only such a society that can defuse the multiple time bombs ticking away in Malaysia.<\/p><p style=\"margin-left: 40px;\">The DAP will give the Government every cooperation and support in policies which will contribute to greater national unity, a stronger democratic system and a more just economic and social order. We will not hesitate however to continue to speak out and oppose what we see as forces and developments and policies which will create greater national disunity and weaken the forces of democracy and social justice.\"<\/p><p style=\"margin-left: 40px;\">(Speech by Opposition leader and DAP Kota Melaka MP Lim Kit Siang in the Dewan Rakyat on the Third Malaysia Plan debate on July 20, 1976, extracted from \"Time Bombs in Malaysia, 1978\")<\/p><p>Happy 84th Birthday, <em>Lao Da<\/em>, saudara Lim Kit Siang. We will keep the flame burning and in time due, pass on the torch.<\/p><p><strong>Steven Sim Chee Keong, Human Resources Minister<\/strong><\/p>","author_name":"Comment","article_byline":"Steven Sim Chee Keong","article_tags":"","author_id":479},{"cms_article_id":3796248,"np_article_id":1560559,"article_title":"G\u2019day getaway: Discover Australia with comfort and class","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"CCTOHE, Digital Advertorial, StarPicks, Australia, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, Brisbane, Batik Air\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"19-02-2025 11:42:31\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"26-02-2025 11:42:31\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"1298\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"Malindo 19Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"AUSTRALIA is a land of endless possibilities. From its golden beaches and bustling cities to its rugged outback and unique wildlife, it offers something for every traveller.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-19 11:42:14\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-19 12:24:47\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"target_page\":null,\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-19 11:42:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\"image_path\":\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/19\\\/3174901.jpg\",\"cms_type\":\"live\",\"small_image\":\"\",\"is_updated\":\"0\",\"image_cropping\":\"{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":413,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}}\",\"is_copied\":\"0\",\"media_type\":\"0\",\"image_caption\":\"Flinders+Street+Station+is+an+iconic+landmark+in+the+heart+of+Melbourne%2C+known+for+its+distinctive+architecture+and+vibrant+atmosphere.\",\"image_count\":4}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/19\/gday-getaway-discover-australia-with-comfort-and-class","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>AUSTRALIA is a land of endless possibilities. From its golden beaches and bustling cities to its rugged outback and unique wildlife, it offers something for every traveller.<\/p><p>Whether it is a family holiday or a business trip, Batik Air aims to make the journey seamless, comfortable and stress-free.  <\/p><p>With direct and convenient flights to Melbourne, Perth, Sydney and Brisbane, Batik Air connects travellers to some of Australia’s most vibrant cities.<\/p><p><strong>Destination for all travellers<\/strong>  <\/p><p>Australia’s appeal lies in its diversity, making it a destination for all travellers.<\/p><p>As the relationship between Malaysia and Australia continues to grow stronger, there are countless reasons to visit the land down under, from cultural exchanges to business collaborations.<\/p><p>Business travelers will find thriving industries in finance, technology and energy, while students and their families can benefit from Australia’s world-class education system and strong ties to Malaysia.<\/p><p><strong>Connecting travellers to Australia’s best  <\/strong><\/p><p>Batik Air’s extensive flight network opens the door to some of Australia’s most exciting destinations.  <\/p><p><strong>Melbourne<\/strong><\/p><p>As Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne is a treasure trove of creativity, culinary delights, and world-class sporting events.<\/p><p>From the charming laneways adorned with street art to its thriving coffee culture and famous sporting arenas like the MCG, there’s no shortage of things to explore.<\/p><p>With direct flights weekly on Batik Air’s A330 fleet, travellers can enjoy a seamless journey to this dynamic city.<\/p><p><img alt=\"A charming highlight of Perth\u2019s riverside, the Blue Boat House is a tranquil spot for capturing picturesque views of the Swan River and a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/19\/3174902.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 465px;\" \/><\/p><p><strong>Perth<\/strong><\/p><p>For those seeking a mix of city life and coastal relaxation, Perth is the perfect escape. With its pristine beaches, breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean, and an exciting food and wine scene, Perth blends laid-back charm with modern sophistication.<\/p><p>Travellers can choose from 14 direct weekly flights or seven weekly flights via Denpasar (DPS) to explore this coastal gem.<\/p><p><img alt=\"The Sydney Harbour Bridge represents the city's lively spirit and architecture, connecting the bustling downtown with beautiful harbour views.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/19\/3174903.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 348px;\" \/><\/p><p><strong>Sydney<\/strong><\/p><p>The Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and golden sands of Bondi Beach are just a glimpse of what this vibrant city has to offer.<\/p><p>Whether you're cruising along the harbour, indulging in fresh seafood at Darling Harbour, or hiking the scenic coastal trails, Sydney offers something for everyone.<\/p><p>With daily flights via Denpasar (DPS), it is easy to experience the best of Australia’s largest city.<\/p><p><img alt=\"Brisbane, Queensland's capital, offers urban appeal and natural beauty, making it a gateway to lush landscapes for nature lovers and adventure seekers.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/19\/3174904.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 704px;\" \/><\/p><p><strong>Brisbane<\/strong><\/p><p>Meanwhile, Brisbane serves as the gateway to Queensland’s lush landscapes, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.<\/p><p>With four weekly flights via Denpasar (DPS), travellers can easily access Queensland’s breathtaking natural attractions.<\/p><p><strong>An Australian adventure awaits<\/strong><\/p><p>Batik Air ensures that getting there is effortless. More than just a mode of transport, the airline’s full-service offerings take care of every detail, from booking to arrival, so travellers can focus on what truly matters—creating memories, building connections, and exploring new horizons.<\/p><p>Whether it’s a family getaway, a business trip, or a solo adventure, Batik Air eliminates common travel stressors such as inconvenient connections and high costs, offering seamless, affordable, and comfortable journeys.<\/p><p>With flexible fare options, including Economy SuperSaver, Economy Value, and Economy Flexi, every traveller’s needs are met with reliability and convenience.<\/p><p>Passengers can enjoy spacious seating and a relaxing cabin environment in both Economy and Business Class, ensuring they arrive refreshed and ready for their Australian experience.<\/p><p>No matter the journey, Batik Air’s commitment to comfort, flexibility, and affordability makes every trip as remarkable as the destination itself.<\/p><p><strong>Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Visit <a href=\"http:\/\/www.batikair.com.my\" target=\"_blank\">www.batikair.com<\/a><\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3796175,"np_article_id":1560467,"article_title":"Unfold innovation with OPPO Find N5","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"CCTMW, Digital Advertorial,StarPicks, Jie Business Sdn Bhd, OPPO, OPPO Find N5, Foldable, Book-style, Slimmest, Innovation, 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launch of the OPPO Find N5.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-19 08:05:41\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-19 08:26:51\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Martin Ignatius\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"target_page\":null,\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-19 08:05:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/19\\\/3174762.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1200,\\\"image_original_height\\\":628,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"OPPO+Find+N5%2C+available+in+Misty+White+and+Cosmic+Black%2C+sets+a+new+benchmark+for+foldable+smartphones.+\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/19\/unfold-innovation-with-oppo-find-n5","show_image_in_thumb":3174762,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":\"3174762\"}","article_body":"<p>THE world of foldable smartphones is about to witness a game-changing moment with the upcoming launch of the OPPO Find N5.<\/p><p>Positioned as the world’s slimmest book-style foldable smartphone, this device is the epitome of cutting-edge innovation, seamlessly blending ultra-slim design with robust durability and powerful performance.<\/p><p>With a series of tantalising leaks and teasers from industry insiders like Pete Lau, Billy Zhang and Zhou Yi Bao on social media pages, X and Little Red Book, excitement is reaching a fever pitch.<\/p><p><strong>A new standard for foldables<\/strong><\/p><p>OPPO’s commitment to redefining the foldable experience is evident in the Find N5’s engineering masterpiece.<\/p><p>This next-generation device is built with 20 new materials integrated into 30 key components, pushing the boundaries of technology to deliver a product that is as durable as it is stylish.<\/p><p>With an industry-leading water resistance rating of IPX6, IPX8 and IPX9, users can enjoy a device that stands strong against the elements while maintaining an elegant form factor.<\/p><p>Adding to its exceptional build, the OPPO Find N5 features a reliable and powerful 3D-printed titanium alloy hinge, ensuring durability and smooth folding mechanics that set a new industry benchmark.<\/p><p><strong>Slim profile, maximum power<\/strong><\/p><p>One of the most remarkable aspects of the OPPO Find N5 is how it achieves a slim profile without sacrificing strength or functionality.<\/p><p>By leveraging direct user feedback, OPPO has fine-tuned its design to deliver a device that offers both portability and resilience.<\/p><p>The increased battery capacity ensures all-day usage, further solidifying the OPPO Find N5 as the go-to choice for those who demand more from their smartphones.<\/p><p>At its core, the OPPO Find N5 is powered by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.xiaohongshu.com\/explore\/678fb89b000000001902f194?xsec_token=ABTi5IjHHwtO3-74qkPFO2wjY46lGLiBnXbZdBWc1-8SE=&xsec_source=pc_user\">new-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Extreme Edition<\/a>, delivering blistering speed, enhanced AI capabilities and top-tier energy efficiency.<\/p><p>Additionally, it supports 50W wireless charging and reverse charging, ensuring users stay powered up throughout the day.<\/p><p><strong>Elevating productivity and performance<\/strong><\/p><p>Beyond aesthetics, the OPPO Find N5 is designed to enhance productivity with an all-star performance package.<\/p><p>Whether you’re a professional on the go or a tech enthusiast looking for the best in mobile innovation, the OPPO Find N5 delivers an unrivaled experience.<\/p><p>The foldable display seamlessly transitions between compact and expansive modes, offering flexibility for multitasking, media consumption and creative workflows.<\/p><p><img alt=\"Capture every moment in stunning detail with the OPPO Find N5, perfect for religious festivals and celebrations.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/19\/3174764.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 600px; height: 353px;\" \/><\/p><p><strong>Capture stunning moments anywhere<\/strong><\/p><p>The OPPO Find N5 isn’t just about performance—it’s also designed to capture life’s best moments.<\/p><p>Equipped with an advanced camera system, it delivers stunning clarity for both portraits and landscapes.<\/p><p>Whether it’s a breathtaking sunset or a group selfie with friends, the OPPO Find N5 ensures every shot is picture-perfect.<\/p><p>With its powerful imaging technology, you can capture and preserve memories in incredible detail, no matter where life takes you.<\/p><p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/19\/3174760.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 600px; height: 750px;\" \/><\/p><p><strong>Stay tuned for the grand launch<\/strong><\/p><p>As OPPO continues to build anticipation through its daily updates on Facebook and Instagram, tech enthusiasts and fans alike can look forward to an official unveiling that promises to set a new benchmark in foldable technology.<\/p><p>The OPPO Find N5 is more than a smartphone; it’s a bold leap into the future of mobile innovation.<\/p><p>Available in Misty White and Cosmic Black, the OPPO Find N5 redefines what a foldable smartphone can achieve.<\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.oppo.com\/my\/product\/coming-soon-oppo-find-n5.P.P1100033?utm_source=Branding&utm_medium=Facebook&utm_campaign=N5%20New%20Launch%20-%20Blind%20Pre-Order\">Pre-order<\/a> the #OPPOFindN5 now and enjoy exclusive offers worth up to RM2,584. Offers are subject to terms and conditions and available while stocks last.<\/p><p><strong>Mark your calendars and be part of this groundbreaking launch on Feb 20 in Singapore. Tune in to the #OPPOFindN5 global launch here: <a href=\"https:\/\/bit.ly\/FindN5-Launch\">https:\/\/bit.ly\/FindN5-Launch<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3795961,"np_article_id":1559825,"article_title":"MGB exceeds RM1bil revenue, raises dividend to 30%","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"CCTMW, Digital Advertorial,StarPicks, MGB Bhd, MGB,Financial results, Dividend, Revenue, Sustained Growth, Earnings\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"18-02-2025 19:09:10\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"25-02-2025 19:09:10\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"1354\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"MGB 18Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"PETALING JAYA: MGB Bhd, a leading construction and property development solutions provider and a subsidiary of LBS Bina Group Bhd, has announced its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter (Q4FYE2024) and the full year ended Dec 31, 2024 (FYE2024), capping off a year of sustained growth and solid earnings momentum.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-18 19:09:09\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-18 19:12:15\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Johan bin Mohd Hulaimi\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"target_page\":null,\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-18 19:09:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\"image_path\":\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/18\\\/3174141.jpg\",\"cms_type\":\"live\",\"small_image\":\"\",\"is_updated\":\"0\",\"image_cropping\":\"{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1755,\\\"image_original_height\\\":1328,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}}\",\"is_copied\":\"0\",\"media_type\":\"0\",\"image_caption\":\"%22We+are+pleased+to+conclude+FYE2024+on+a+strong+note%2C+demonstrating+our+ability+to+sustain+earnings+momentum%2C%E2%80%9D+said+Lim.\",\"image_count\":1}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/18\/mgb-exceeds-rm1bil-revenue-raises-dividend-to-30","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>PETALING JAYA: MGB Bhd, a leading construction and property development solutions provider and a subsidiary of LBS Bina Group Bhd, has announced its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter (Q4FYE2024) and the full year ended Dec 31, 2024 (FYE2024), capping off a year of sustained growth and solid earnings momentum.<\/p><p>For FYE2024, MGB continued to deliver strong financial results, with revenue surpassing the RM1bil mark, rising by 6.2% to RM1.03bil from RM971.8mil.<\/p><p>The improvement was predominantly attributed to its property development segment’s four-fold leap in revenue to RM483.6mil from RM115.6mil last year.<\/p><p>This substantial growth was mainly fuelled by the accelerated progress of on-going development projects, namely Idaman Melur, Idaman Cahaya Phase 1 and Phase 2, Idaman Sari and Saujana Indah Phase 1 and Phase 2.<\/p><p>As a result, the segment’s profit before tax (PBT) saw a remarkable increase from RM18.6mil to RM76.6mil.<\/p><p>The Group’s PBT and profit after tax (PAT) in turn surged by 25.9% and 22.3% respectively, to RM87.1mil and RM61.7mil in FYE2024.<\/p><p>For Q4FYE2024, PBT rose by 21.3% to RM22.3mil, while PAT increased by 9% to RM14.3mil, year-on-year, on the back of a RM256.8mil revenue. Growth was largely driven by an increase in other incomes recorded during the period under review.<\/p><p>\"We are pleased to conclude FYE2024 on a strong note, demonstrating our ability to sustain earnings momentum,” said MGB’s Group executive chairman Tan Sri Ir Lim Hock San.<\/p><p>“The resounding growth in our property development segment highlights MGB’s strategic shift towards high-demand affordable housing projects and state government initiatives such as Rumah Selangorku 3.0.”<\/p><p>Lim added, “Our core priority remains the efficient execution of all our projects, ensuring timely delivery and optimal resource utilisation.<\/p><p>“This is in line with our mission to push the boundaries and expectations of quality, reliability and innovation. Driven by our steadfast commitment to developing, refining and providing affordable housing solutions, we stay close to our vision to be a recognised design and build expert to set new standards.<\/p><p>“This is to create living spaces that can enrich life, while addressing the increasing demand for high-quality cost-effective homes that are well-designed and come with attractive packages to increase accessibility to more individuals and families.<\/p><p>“A point to note is that our manufacturing arm, helmed by our subsidiary, MGB Sany (M) IBS Sdn Bhd is now operating efficiently, demonstrating stability and strong industry presence. With its well-established operations, it has made a record profit before tax of RM11.5mil at the company level, reflecting its growing impact and resilience in the market.”<\/p><p>He explained, “We also evaluate and pursue strategic investment opportunities and partnerships that are mutually beneficial, both domestically and internationally. On the strength of our sustainable position, we have decided to revise our dividend policy.”<\/p><p>In line with MGB’s appreciation of shareholders’ support for the group’s growth, the company has revised its dividend policy, increasing the current minimum payout of 20% to 30% of its profit after tax and minority interests, effective from FYE2024.<\/p><p>For the quarter, the Board of Directors has declared a single tier interim dividend of RM0.015 per share on 591.7 million ordinary shares, amounting to RM8.99mil, which shall be paid on March 28.<\/p><p>As at 31 Dec 31 last year, MGB’s financial position remained robust, with cash and bank balances of RM100.2mil and net assets per share rising to RM1.02 from RM0.93 a year ago. The Group continues to maintain a solid outstanding construction order book of approximately RM1.27bil from ongoing property development projects as of to date, providing strong earnings visibility into FYE2025, whereas the Group’s property development unbilled sales stand at RM0.63bil as at Jan 31.<\/p><p><em><strong>For more information, <a href=\"http:\/\/visit www.mgb.com.my.\" target=\"_blank\">visit www.mgb.com.my.<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p><p> <\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3795875,"np_article_id":1559644,"article_title":"HUAWEI introduces Mate XT Ultimate Design, the world\u2019s first tri-fold smartphone with cutting-edge technology","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Huawei, HUAWEI Mate XT Ultimate Design, tri-fold smartphone, HUAWEI Mate X6, Digital Advertorial, StarPicks\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"starpicks\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/18\\\/huawei-introduces-mate-xt-ultimate-design-the-worlds-first-tri-fold-smartphone-with-cutting-edge-technology\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"18-02-2025 14:45:58\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"25-02-2025 14:45:58\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"1028\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"Huawei 18Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IF you thought tri-fold smartphones were just a sci-fi fantasy, think again.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-18 14:45:58\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-18 15:10:24\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-18 15:00:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\"image_path\":\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/18\\\/3173695.jpg\",\"cms_type\":\"live\",\"small_image\":\"\",\"is_updated\":\"0\",\"image_cropping\":\"{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1200,\\\"image_original_height\\\":675,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}}\",\"is_copied\":\"0\",\"media_type\":\"0\",\"image_caption\":\"HUAWEI+Mate+XT+Ultimate+Design%E2%80%99s+tri-fold+mechanism+combines+both+inward+and+outward+folding%2C+revolutionising+device+screens%2C+hinges%2C+and+bodies.\",\"image_count\":4}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/18\/huawei-introduces-mate-xt-ultimate-design-the-worlds-first-tri-fold-smartphone-with-cutting-edge-technology","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IF you thought tri-fold smartphones were just a sci-fi fantasy, think again.<\/p><p>The brand new HUAWEI Mate XT Ultimate Design isn’t just a phone – it’s a masterpiece of innovation, engineering genius, and effortless elegance.<\/p><p>This ultra-thin, tri-fold marvel rewrites the rulebook on innovation, blending cutting-edge screen tech, hinge technology, precision engineering, and multi-functional capabilities.<\/p><p>What was once a dream plucked from the future is now a reality, ready to redefine the game.<\/p><p><strong>Marvel of engineering<\/strong><\/p><p>The HUAWEI Mate XT pushes the limits of engineering with its ultra-sleek, refined aesthetic.<\/p><p><img alt=\"The sleek HUAWEI Mate XT houses an ultra-thin 1.9 mm, 5600m Ah battery, combining power and portability.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/18\/3173693.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 620px;\" \/><\/p><p>At a mere 3.6mm thin, the Mate XT is pure futuristic elegance. Hidden within its sleek frame is a 1.9mm, 5600mAh battery, proving that power, portability, style and endurance can coexist.<\/p><p>Its eonic curves and 80 layers of fine steel surrounding the rear camera give it a bold, sophisticated, elegant look. Available in red and black, the HUAWEI Mate XT is a showstopper in every sense.<\/p><p><strong>Beyond boundaries<\/strong><\/p><p>The HUAWEI Mate XT is rewriting the future with a never-seen-before tri-fold mechanism, by combining inward and outward folding, revolutionising how screens, hinges, and the device body interact.<\/p><p>At the heart of this innovation is its cutting-edge display, designed to overcome a key industry challenge: resisting both compression and stretching.<\/p><p>Thanks to a multi-directional flexible material that improves bend resistance by 25%, the screen is as tough as it is visually striking.<\/p><p>Further enhancing its durability, the HUAWEI Mate XT incorporates advanced non-Newtonian fluid technology alongside 322 square centimetres of ultra-thin glass (UTG), increasing impact resistance by 30%. The result? A device that is both remarkably resilient and effortlessly sleek.<\/p><p>At the core of its strength lies in the Advanced Precision Hinge System, built from ultra-high-strength steel with an exceptional deformation resistance of 1900 MPa.<\/p><p>This hinge strikes the perfect balance between being lightweight and incredibly sturdy.<\/p><p>Designed for seamless functionality, it also features 26 precision cams that enable a smooth, effortless fold every time.<\/p><p>The outward folding hinge incorporates a sophisticated link structure, reducing thickness by 23%, while the inward folding hinge utilises an innovative embedded rail system, making it 16% slimmer.<\/p><p><strong>More than a phone<\/strong><\/p><p>The HUAWEI Mate XT seamlessly adapts to any situation, transforming from a sleek smartphone into a powerhouse for work and entertainment.<\/p><p><strong>> Single-screen mode (6.41 inches)<\/strong> – A stylish and compact smartphone experience, perfect for calls, messaging, and browsing on the go.<\/p><p><strong>> Dual-screen mode (7.93 inches)<\/strong> – Designed for multitasking, allowing you to read documents, switch between apps, and boost productivity effortlessly.<\/p><p><strong>> Triple-screen landscape mode (10.2 inches)<\/strong> – A stunning 3K ultra-high-resolution display for immersive binge-watching or efficient split-screen workflows.<\/p><p><strong>> Triple-screen portrait mode<\/strong> – Optimised for vertical videos, making it the go-to device for social media content creation.<\/p><p><img alt=\"Whether you\u2019re working, streaming, or creating, the HUAWEI Mate XT shifts effortlessly to match your needs \u2013 blending the best of a smartphone, tablet, and camera into one game-changing device.\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/18\/3173692.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 465px;\" \/><\/p><p><strong>Defining the foldable era<\/strong><\/p><p>The HUAWEI Mate XT offers a glimpse into the future, demonstrating that foldable technology can be both revolutionary and stunning.<\/p><p>Similarly, the dual-fold HUAWEI Mate X6 elevates foldable design with an ultra-thin, highly durable build.<\/p><p>Featuring an advanced precision hinge, aviation-grade aluminum middle frame, ultra-durable screen, and graphene cooling, it delivers unmatched performance without compromise.<\/p><p>It even comes with a 2nd Gen Kunlun Glass outer screen which makes it drop resistant.<\/p><p><strong>Capture every moment<\/strong><\/p><p>Photography lovers will be captivated by the HUAWEI Mate XT’s flagship-grade camera system, designed to preserve life’s moments in stunning detail. The camera system includes:<\/p><p><strong>> 50MP Ultra Aperture Camera<\/strong> – A dynamic f\/1.4-f\/4.0 aperture adapts to any lighting, delivering breathtaking clarity in every shot.<\/p><p><strong>> Periscope Telephoto Lens<\/strong> – Achieve 5.5x optical zoom to bring distant subjects into sharp, stunning focus.<\/p><p><strong>> 12MP Ultra-Wide Camera<\/strong> – Ideal for capturing sweeping landscapes and perfect group shots.<\/p><p><strong>Ready to unfold your future?<\/strong><\/p><p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/18\/3173694.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 349px;\" \/><\/p><p>The HUAWEI Mate XT isn’t just a smartphone – it’s a statement. Seamlessly blending work and play, innovation and design, it redefines what’s possible. The future isn’t just coming – it’s unfolding in your hands.<\/p><p>Pre-order now at HUAWEI Experience Stores, the <a href=\"https:\/\/consumer.huawei.com\/my\/offer\/phones\/?utm_source=paidpr&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=mate_xt_2025&utm_content=thestar_preorder_ad\" target=\"_blank\">HUAWEI Official Website<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/shopee.com.my\/universal-link\/product\/123793634\/24140650055\/?smtt=9&utm_source=pr&utm_medium=seller&utm_campaign=s123793634_SS_MY_OTHR_matext-launch-2025&utm_content=the-star-paid-advertorial&deep_and_web=1&pid=pr&c=s123793634_SS_MY_OTHR_matext-laun\" target=\"_blank\">Shopee<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/s.lazada.com.my\/a.SmI\" target=\"_blank\">Lazada<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/vt.tiktok.com\/ZSMdJCGqJ\/\" target=\"_blank\">TikTok<\/a> from Feb 18 to Mar 14, at RM14,999. Enjoy exclusive offers, including one-year screen protection worth RM3,999.<\/p><p>Alternatively, get your hands on the sleek yet powerful HUAWEI Mate X6 today for RM8,688, with up to RM1,000 in exclusive vouchers and free gifts worth RM3,498.<\/p><p> <\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3795853,"np_article_id":1559606,"article_title":"EU-Malaysia Business Day boosts Penang\u2019s prospects","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"European Union, EU, Rafael Daerr\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"18-02-2025 13:32:24\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"25-02-2025 13:32:24\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"1352\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"Gopa 18Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"GEORGE TOWN: Penang is well positioned to benefit from the resumption of the Malaysia-European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement negotiations.\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-18 13:32:24\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-18 13:38:03\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"target_page\":null,\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-18 13:32:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\"image_path\":\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/18\\\/3173568.jpg\",\"cms_type\":\"live\",\"small_image\":\"\",\"is_updated\":\"0\",\"image_cropping\":\"{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":413,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}}\",\"is_copied\":\"0\",\"media_type\":\"0\",\"image_caption\":\"Daerr+and+Chow+commemorating+the+EU%E2%80%99s+partnership+with+Malaysia+at+the+European+Union-Malaysia+Business+Day+in+Penang%2C+symbolising+the+renewed+commitment+to+strengthen+bilateral+relations.+\",\"image_count\":1}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/18\/eu-malaysia-business-day-boosts-penangs-prospects","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>GEORGE TOWN: Penang is well positioned to benefit from the resumption of the Malaysia-European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement negotiations.<\/p><p>\"The prospect of an ambitious, comprehensive, and modern free trade agreement between Malaysia and the EU is expected to create numerous new opportunities for investors and companies on both sides,\" EU Ambassador to Malaysia Rafael Daerr said.<\/p><p>EU companies are key investors in the state's key industrial segments, such as electrical and electronic precision engineering and equipment, medical devices, and aerospace and aviation.<\/p><p>Daerr said the EU and Penang have converging priorities regarding digital and green transitions.<\/p><p>\"The EU is Malaysia's second-largest source of foreign direct investment with €31.6bil (RM147bil).<\/p><p>\"The EU and its Member States have agreed to mobilise €10bil (RM46.5bil) for Asean countries under the Global Gateway Initiative until 2027,\" he said at the European Union-Malaysia Business Day in Penang recently.<\/p><p>The EU delegation to Malaysia, the state government, Eurocham Malaysia, and InvestPenang organised the event.<\/p><p>The event attracted over 300 participants from EU and Malaysian businesses and chambers of commerce, 23 ambassadors from EU member states, and state government officials.<\/p><p>Daerr said the EU-Malaysia Business Day 2025 came at a crucial time, just weeks after Malaysia and the EU officially announced their decision to resume trade negotiations.<\/p><p>Reflecting on the evolving EU-Malaysia economic relationship, Daerr highlighted the signing of a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement in 2022.<\/p><p>\"The agreement is currently being ratified by EU member states and Malaysia.<\/p><p>\"Once done, there will be formats for fresh engagements at all levels to strengthen the economic relationship,\" he said.<\/p><p>Regarding the ongoing free trade negotiations with Malaysia, Daerr noted a clear willingness on both sides to proceed as a high priority, though he refrained from predicting the duration. The fastest free trade agreement so far was completed in two and a half years.<\/p><p>\"In any case, quality will prime over speed,\" Daerr added.<\/p><p>Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, during his visit to Brussels on Jan 20, announced the relaunch of free trade negotiations together with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.<\/p><p>Daerr added, \"Between 2019 and 2023, Penang roped in about RM100bil in manufacturing investments from the EU, about 51% of the state-approved manufacturing investments.<\/p><p>\"During this period, Penang exported RM140bil worth of goods into the EU, representing 7% of the state's exports.<\/p><p>\"There are a lot of untapped business potentials and opportunities for business expansion in Penang and Malaysia.”<\/p><p>Meanwhile, in his keynote address, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the EU-Malaysia Business Day served as a vital platform for Eurocham members and key stakeholders to connect, exchange insights, and explore industry trends and opportunities.<\/p><p>\"While this event highlights the EU's importance as a significant economic, trade, and investment partner for Malaysia, this year's theme, 'Penang in Focus', underscores the state's position as a premier investment destination for EU multinational corporations,\" Chow said.<\/p><p>He added that one of the state's flagship programmes is the Penang Strategy for Economic Ecosystem Development (Penang SEED), a five-year plan aligned with the Penang2030 vision.<\/p><p>\"This strategy focuses on workforce development, technological innovation, sustainable growth and infrastructure enhancement.<\/p><p>\"Through Penang SEED, we are collaborating closely with industry leaders to drive high-value sector growth, ensuring that Penang remains at the forefront of economic and technological advancements,\" he said.<\/p><p>According to Chow, the state government recently launched the 'Penang Silicon Design @ 5km+' initiative to strengthen Penang's competitive edge. It comprises three key components—the Penang IC Design and Digital Park, the Penang Chip Design Academy and the Silicon Research and Incubation Space—aimed at positioning Penang as a global hub for Integrated Circuit (IC) design and innovation.<\/p><p>\"With its integrated ecosystem within the vibrant 5km+ area, the PSD @ 5km+ initiative offers a unique value proposition, benchmarking itself against IC design hubs in Silicon Valley, San Jose, and Taiwan,\" he said.<\/p><p>Chow and Daerr in their joint press conference highlighted the potential for cooperation across all areas covered during the EU-Malaysia Business Day 2025 in Penang: Advancing Manufacturing Excellence, E&E, Healthcare and Medical, Education and Upskilling, Building Sustainable Supply Chains, Renewable Energy Advancement, Digital Economy and Cybersecurity, and Sustainable Growth, including through the EU Global Gateway Initiative.<\/p><p>The broad participation of EU businesses in the event has clearly showcased their commitment to stepping up engagement in Penang.<\/p><p> <\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0},{"cms_article_id":3795807,"np_article_id":1559508,"article_title":"AEON Bank enhances customers\u2019 digital banking experience through advanced shielding technology","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"StarPicks, Digital Advertorial, AEON Bank, Mobile Security Platform, MSP, Digital banking, Data theft, Jailbreak, Online threat, Security, Finance, Raja Teh Maimunah Raja Abdul Aziz\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"starpicks\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/18\\\/aeon-bank-enhances-customers-digital-banking-experience-through-advanced-shielding-technology\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"1\\\",\\\"start_date\\\":\\\"18-02-2025 11:24:44\\\",\\\"end_date\\\":\\\"25-02-2025 11:24:44\\\",\\\"brand_type\\\":\\\"basic\\\",\\\"brand_id\\\":\\\"1353\\\",\\\"submenu_id\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"utm_campaign\\\":\\\"AeonBank 18Feb25\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"AEON Bank, Malaysia's first Islamic digital bank, has enhanced its security features by introducing its Mobile Security Platform (MSP), an advanced shielding technology for its AEON Bank mobile app.\\u00a0\"],\"columnist\":[],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":null,\"initial_publication\":\"\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-18 11:24:44\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-18 11:33:17\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"#05ffac\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-18 11:24:00","sub_section_id":0,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/18\\\/3173378.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":439,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":180,"section_name":"Starpicks","sub_section_name":"","permalink":"starpicks\/2025\/02\/18\/aeon-bank-enhances-customers-digital-banking-experience-through-advanced-shielding-technology","show_image_in_thumb":3173378,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/18\/3173377.png\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 620px; height: 339px;\" \/><\/p><p>AEON Bank, Malaysia’s first Islamic digital bank, has enhanced its security features by introducing its Mobile Security Platform (MSP), an advanced shielding technology for its AEON Bank mobile app. <\/p><p>This is part of its ongoing commitment to improve the security of its digital banking app and safeguard customer data.<\/p><p>AEON Bank’s MSP continuously monitors potential threats and malware, taking proactive measures to safeguard the integrity of its digital banking app. <\/p><p>If a device is detected as compromised – whether due to jailbreaking, rooting, library modification, runtime tampering, or any application modification from the original factory setting that bypasses security restrictions – the user will be notified and access to the app will be temporarily disabled. <\/p><p>This security measure is implemented to prevent data theft, security breaches and the risk of unauthorised access. \"Protecting our customers is AEON Bank’s foremost priority as a fully digital bank,” said AEON Bank (M) Bhd chief executive officer Raja Teh Maimunah Raja Abdul Aziz.<\/p><p>“The MSP shielding technology is crucial in providing a secure and trusted digital banking experience. We want our customers to use our app with confidence and peace of mind.”<\/p><p>She added that the bank remains committed to providing Malaysians with a secure, trusted and Shariah-compliant digital banking experience. <\/p><p>Through the MSP feature, AEON Bank does not collect, process or store any personal information from customers' devices. Instead, the multi-layered approach enables the following forms of protection:<\/p><p>> Threat detection and notification: If a device is detected as jailbroken or rooted, customers will receive an in-app security alert and access to the app will be temporarily disabled to prevent potential breaches.<\/p><p>> Guided resolution: Customers can restore access by removing the detected security threats or adjusting their device settings. For enhanced security, resetting the device to factory settings is also recommended. Customers should back up their phone’s data before doing so.<\/p><p>> Secure re-access: Once the issue is resolved, customers can relaunch or reinstall the AEON Bank app to resume secure banking services.<\/p><p>While AEON Bank rolls out the latest security technology to protect its customers, customers are also encouraged to carry out the following actions for added protection:<\/p><p>> Review app permissions regularly on your device.<\/p><p>> Monitor data usage for any unusual increases or unexpected high phone bills.<\/p><p>> Frequently check your account balance and statements, and report any suspicious activity immediately to AEON Bank’s customer support.<\/p><p>For more information about AEON Bank’s shielding technology, visit the AEON Bank website. Customers can download the AEON Bank app by scanning the QR Code below.<\/p><p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/18\/3173376.png\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 252px;\" \/><\/p>","author_name":"","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":0}]}; var postURL = '/loadMoreArticlesStarSpecial'; var buttonLoadMore = '1'; var paywallSpan = '<span class="labels labels--free" data-toggle="tooltip" title="" data-original-title="This is a Free article"><i class="fa fa-unlock"></i></span>'; var premiumSpan = '<span class="biz-icon" data-toggle="tooltip" title="" id="sbp-tip" data-original-title="Premium">Premium</span>'; var paywalllockSpan = '<span class="labels labels--gray" data-toggle="tooltip" title="" data-original-title="This is a locked article"><i class="fa fa-lock"></i></span>'; var postData = { 'widgetName': 'Starpicks', 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