Earthquaker Bull Sculpture Receives ASEAN Records Recognition for Most Individually Assembled Stainless Steel Parts

Earthquaker Bull Sculpture Receives ASEAN Records Recognition for Most Individually Assembled Stainless Steel Parts

ASEAN Records has officially recognised Earthquaker, a monumental mirror-finish stainless steel bull sculpture, as the First Mirror-Finish Stainless Steel Bull Sculpture with the Most Individually Assembled Parts. The sculpture comprises 2,969 meticulously crafted components — including 2,892 individually cut stainless steel pieces and 77 precision screws. Towering at 4.2 metres in length and 2.8 metres in height, and weighing 3.8 metric tons, this record-breaking masterpiece is a feat of engineering, artistry, and vision.

The certificate was presented to Datuk Hong Lay Chuan, Director of Macorp Sdn Bhd, owner of Menara Khuan Choo, during the unveiling ceremony at Menara Khuan Choo, with guests from the business, design, and cultural communities in attendance. Commissioned by LA Louie Holding, the sculpture is a defining statement of Malaysia’s creative and engineering prowess.


A Living Presence at Menara Khuan Choo

Proudly installed in the lobby of Menara Khuan Choo, Earthquaker transforms the space into an immersive experience that resonates with energy, movement, and cultural symbolism. Its polished mirror finish reflects both the surroundings and the people who encounter it — creating a dialogue between tradition, craft, and modern innovation.

“Glass radiates unexpected warmth through the memory of craft, and Earthquaker brings this same spirit into stainless steel — where precision meets imagination,”

A Ground Shaker of Perception

More than a sculpture, Earthquaker stands as a philosophical statement and cultural icon. It combines computational precision with human intuition, embodying Southeast Asia’s balance of heritage and future vision. By pushing the boundaries of design and execution, it demonstrates how art can spark emotion, reflection, and conversation on a monumental scale.

With this record, Earthquaker enters the ASEAN Records, cementing its place as both a technical marvel and a cultural landmark — a bold symbol of strength, resilience, and forward-looking creativity.

Smart One Education Group Recognised by ASEAN Records for Most School-Based Bahasa Melayu and Bahasa Cina Seminars Conducted in Malaysia

Smart One Education Group Recognised by ASEAN Records for Most School-Based Bahasa Melayu and Bahasa Cina Seminars Conducted in Malaysia

Smart One Education Group, a leading bilingual education provider in Malaysia, has officially been recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving: Most Cumulative Bahasa Melayu & Bahasa Cina Seminars Delivered in Schools to Teachers and Students by Two External Language-Specific Facilitators Over a 20-Month Period.

Between January 2024 and August 2025, the group conducted 327 school-based seminars, directly impacting 202,400 students and 3,700 teachers across Malaysia.

The certificate presentation was held at ASEAN Records Corporate Office, and received by (Dr.) Philip Hii, Founder of Smart One Education Group.


Setting a Benchmark for Scalable Bilingual Language Education

Smart One’s nationwide seminars focused on Bahasa Melayu and Bahasa Cina instruction, offering structured, curriculum-aligned programmes delivered directly on school campuses. These sessions were designed to strengthen language proficiency, writing skills, and exam readiness, while also supporting teachers with practical methods to elevate classroom learning.

Smart One’s success is rooted in:

  • On-site, school-based seminar delivery
  • Real-life, experience-driven language coaching
  • Step-by-step teaching methods designed for measurable outcomes
  • Motivational and empowering content for both teachers and students

The scale and consistency of the programme over 20 months mark a new milestone for bilingual academic outreach in the ASEAN education landscape.


“This recognition proves that language education, when made practical and relatable, can transform classroom outcomes nationwide. It is not just about exam scores, but about empowering students with the confidence and skills to thrive,” said (Dr.) Philip Hii, Founder of Smart One Education Group.
“We dedicate this record to the thousands of students and teachers who joined our seminars. Their enthusiasm and commitment inspire us to continue pushing boundaries in bilingual education,” Teacher Chin, Smart One Education Group

About Smart One Education Group

Smart One Education Group is a fast-growing academic institution in Malaysia specialising in:

  • Bahasa Melayu and Bahasa Cina education
  • English, Science, and Mathematics tuition
  • School partnerships and academic seminars

With a strong bilingual teaching model, the group emphasises results, engagement, and accessibility. By bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application, Smart One continues to shape future-ready learners across Malaysia.

This recognition reinforces the organisation’s commitment to scalable, high-impact learning experiences—aligned with national education goals and ASEAN’s vision for excellence in education. Learn more: https://smartonetuitioncentre.com

Top Scholar Education Group Recognised by ASEAN Records for Largest Combined Zoom Meeting Attendance in English & Bahasa Malaysia Language Seminars

Top Scholar Education Group Recognised by ASEAN Records for Largest Combined Zoom Meeting Attendance in English & Bahasa Malaysia Language Seminars

Top Scholar Education Group has been officially recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the Largest Combined Zoom Meeting Attendance for English & Bahasa Malaysia Language Seminars Conducted by Two Teachers. The record was achieved with a total of 5,759 primary and secondary student attendances over a three-day programme, with 90-minute sessions each day.

The ASEAN Records certificate was presented during a dedicated evening ceremony at Top Scholar’s campus in Bandar Baru Ampang, witnessed by teachers, parents, students, and hundreds of participants joining online via Zoom.


Transforming Language Learning Through Hybrid Education

This achievement highlights Top Scholar’s innovative approach to English and Bahasa Malaysia education, moving away from the traditional “memorise-to-score” method and instead creating dynamic, interactive, and engaging learning environments. By leveraging Zoom technology and combining it with live, in-person sessions, Top Scholar has pioneered a scalable model of hybrid education that enhances student confidence, fluency, and proficiency across both languages.

“This recognition proves that meaningful learning can happen anywhere — whether in a classroom or on Zoom. What matters is making lessons interactive, relevant, and fun so that students feel empowered to succeed,” said Teacher Alex.
“Education is about connection. Through this programme, we’ve shown that technology doesn’t separate us — it unites us, enabling thousands of students to learn together, no matter where they are,” added Teacher Aaron.

Event Highlights

The evening programme featured engaging bilingual seminar sessions led by Teacher Alex and Teacher Aaron, who guided students through interactive lessons in English and Bahasa Malaysia. Online participants joined via Zoom, with their live reactions displayed on-screen, creating an inclusive and dynamic learning atmosphere. The event concluded with a group photography session, bringing together the teachers, student hosts, and ASEAN Records officials to commemorate this record-setting milestone.

Parents and students celebrated alongside the Top Scholar team, marking this milestone as a defining moment in Malaysia’s education sector.


Entry into ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition

With this title, Top Scholar Education Group now joins the ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition, solidifying its leadership in bilingual education and digital learning innovation. The achievement reinforces Top Scholar’s role as a leader in Zoom-based learning, bilingual education, and student engagement across Southeast Asia.

This record cements Top Scholar’s mission: to empower students with interactive English and Bahasa Malaysia learning experiences, raise the standard of education, and inspire academic success through innovative teaching methods.

MR Academy Recognised by ASEAN Records for Record-Breaking Impact in Mandarin-Based SME Retail Transformation Education

MR Academy Recognised by ASEAN Records for Record-Breaking Impact in Mandarin-Based SME Retail Transformation Education

MR Academy International has officially been recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the Highest Number of Paid Enrollments by SME Business Owners in Mandarin-Based Retail Business Transformation Courses Over a Three-Year Period. Between 2022 and 2025, the academy recorded an impressive 4,002 enrollments across 60 programmes, setting a new regional benchmark in SME-focused education and retail training.

The certificate presentation took place on the main stage of Franchise Expo Malaysia 2025 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, in front of distinguished business leaders, expo delegates, and industry stakeholders.


Supporting SME Growth Through Retail Transformation

Since its inception, MR Academy has specialised in retail-focused education, empowering entrepreneurs with practical business knowledge and hands-on strategies drawn from real-life case studies. Its programmes provide a step-by-step approach to implementing retail transformation, ensuring participants are equipped with actionable tools that can be immediately applied to their businesses.

Beyond technical strategies, MR Academy places strong emphasis on mindset and purpose-driven leadership—helping SME owners and their teams discover motivation, resilience, and long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive market.

“Our journey is not only about teaching retail skills but about inspiring SME owners to believe in transformation, embrace change, and achieve results that ripple across the entire ecosystem,” said Mr Marcus Chew, MR Academy International .

Regional Impact and Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

This recognition reflects MR Academy’s pivotal role in strengthening the ASEAN entrepreneurial ecosystem. By providing affordable, high-quality, and Mandarin-based retail transformation education, the academy has empowered thousands of SME business owners to evolve from traditional models into innovative and competitive enterprises.

The academy’s impact extends across diverse retail sectors, fostering a new generation of SME leaders equipped to scale locally and expand regionally.


Entry into ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition

With this milestone, MR Academy is now officially inducted into the ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition, joining an esteemed list of organisations across Southeast Asia that have redefined standards of excellence in their fields.

This achievement not only affirms MR Academy’s leadership in retail education but also underscores its long-term mission to nurture SME resilience, elevate retail standards, and create sustainable entrepreneurial success stories across the region.

For more information about MR Academy and its programmes, visit www.mracademy.com.my

Dennis Lau Recognised by ASEAN Records for First Live Performance with Fully AI-Generated Band

Dennis Lau Recognised by ASEAN Records for First Live Performance with Fully AI-Generated Band

Malaysian electric violinist and music producer Dennis Lau has officially been recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the title: “First Instrumentalist (Electric Violinist) to Perform Live and Collaborate with a Fully AI-Generated Female Band on a Music Single.”

The recognition was conferred during the TAE (The Alice Experiment) Launch Party at Pitt Club, Kuala Lumpur, where an audience of invited creatives, industry leaders, and media witnessed this pioneering collaboration. The ASEAN Records certificate presentation was officiated in the presence of special guest Khairy Jamaluddin.


A Milestone Performance

Lau’s record-setting performance took place on the track “Veins”, delivered live with The Alice Experiment, Southeast Asia’s first fully AI-generated all-female music band. The group features virtual personas, AI-synthesised vocals, and machine-generated compositions—blending futuristic content creation with human artistry.

By fusing his signature electric violin mastery with AI-generated music, Lau set a new benchmark for human-AI musical collaboration in the region.

“This performance was not just about music—it was about embracing the next chapter of creativity,” said Dennis Lau.

A Visionary in Music Innovation

Known for his boundary-breaking artistry, Lau has consistently elevated Malaysia’s music industry on the global stage. His collaborations span international icons, prestigious award shows, and cross-genre productions, all underpinned by his passion for innovation and storytelling through music.

This milestone reflects Lau’s commitment to exploring new creative frontiers, demonstrating how AI can complement—not replace—human artistry.


Entry into ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition

With this achievement, Dennis Lau officially joins the ASEAN Records, affirming his role as a trailblazer in redefining the future of music through the fusion of technology and live performance.

This recognition not only celebrates artistic excellence but also signals a new era for ASEAN’s creative industries—where technology and tradition harmonise to shape transformative cultural experiences.

Shahrizal Mohamed Kamal Recognised by ASEAN Records for Creating ASEAN’s First Fully AI-Generated All-Female Music Band

Shahrizal Mohamed Kamal Recognised by ASEAN Records for Creating ASEAN’s First Fully AI-Generated All-Female Music Band

Shahrizal Mohamed Kamal, Executive Producer of The Alice Experiment, has been officially recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the milestone of creating the First Fully AI-Generated All-Female Band with Original Music, Vocals & Personas.

The recognition was presented during the TAE (The Alice Experiment) Launch Party at Pitt Club, Kuala Lumpur, in front of a curated audience of innovators, creators, and media professionals. The ASEAN Records certificate presentation was witnessed by Khairy Jamaluddin, who graced the evening as a special guest.


Blending Artificial Intelligence and Creative Content Production

The Alice Experiment represents Southeast Asia’s first music band built entirely with artificial intelligence — featuring uniquely designed digital personas, AI-synthesized vocals, and fully original compositions. This record-setting achievement highlights the future of creative AI, demonstrating how technology can transform music, branding, and digital storytelling.

Shahrizal’s work positions Malaysia and ASEAN at the forefront of AI-powered entertainment and digital content innovation.

“AI isn’t just about automation—it’s about expanding creative potential and unlocking new ways to tell stories,” said Shahrizal Mohamed Kamal during his remarks at the launch.

A Launch Event to Showcase AI’s Potential

The TAE Launch Party was designed to go beyond performance, serving as a platform to:

  • Promote AI content creation services to brands, agencies, and creators.
  • Raise awareness about commercial applications of AI in entertainment and media.
  • Facilitate collaboration among investors, innovators, and creative industry leaders.

Guests enjoyed behind-the-scenes insights, AI-generated visuals, and interactive showcases on how AI-driven storytelling can be applied across industries such as advertising, marketing, and virtual influencer branding.

With this official listing, Shahrizal Mohamed Kamal enters the ASEAN Records, underscoring not only artistic achievement but also the establishment of a working model for AI creativity as a service.

This milestone highlights the region’s growing demand for AI-driven innovation and strengthens Malaysia’s role as a leader in digital creativity and entertainment technology.

EIST System Recognised by ASEAN Records for Most Multi-Sector Business Collaborations Achieved in One Year

EIST System Recognised by ASEAN Records for Most Multi-Sector Business Collaborations Achieved in One Year

EIST System has been officially recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the Highest Number of Multi-Sector Business Collaborations Achieved by a System Solution Company in One Year, with an impressive 110 collaborations across 68 sectors in 2024.

The recognition was conferred during the Franchise Expo Malaysia (FEM25) Opening Ceremony at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), witnessed by business leaders, industry stakeholders, and representatives from both local and regional agencies.


Record Recognition for Business Innovation and Sectoral Integration

This milestone reflects EIST System’s dynamic role as a bridge-builder between industries through digital solutions, systems integration, and technology-driven partnerships. By achieving 110 collaborations spanning finance, retail, logistics, healthcare, education, manufacturing, and more, EIST has set a new benchmark for enterprise connectivity and cross-sector integration in the ASEAN region.

“Our mission has always been to connect industries through practical digital transformation,” said Christine Tan, EIST System.
“This record belongs to our partners as much as it does to us—it’s a shared achievement across all sectors.”


Certificate Presentation at FEM25 Opening Ceremony

The ASEAN Records certificate was formally presented to Christine Tan of EIST System Sdn Bhd, witnessed by YB Datuk Ewon Benedick, Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, who served as the Guest of Honour.

The opening ceremony also featured speeches from YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ken Phua, President of MRCA, and Mr. Terry Tay, Organising Chairperson of FEM25. Following the official launch and sponsor appreciation session, the day concluded with a media press conference and a VIP exhibition tour.


Entry into ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition

With this achievement, EIST System Sdn Bhd is now officially listed in the ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition, joining a growing list of enterprises that have made region-wide impact through innovation, strategic partnerships, and measurable results.

This recognition not only affirms EIST’s leadership in ASEAN’s evolving digital business landscape, but also underscores its pivotal role in driving collaboration, connectivity, and transformation across multiple industries.

Foodie Foodie @ Kuchai Earns ASEAN Records Recognition for Largest Retractable Roof in a Food Court

Foodie Foodie @ Kuchai Earns ASEAN Records Recognition for Largest Retractable Roof in a Food Court

Foodie Foodie @ Kuchai, operated by Soul Foodie Sdn Bhd, proudly announces its official entry into the ASEAN Records for achieving the Largest Retractable Roof in a Food Court.

The innovative feature spans a total of 9,408 sq ft, comprising two retractable roof sets, each measuring 84 feet by 56 feet, as part of a cutting-edge integrated natural ventilation and air-conditioning system. This recognition marks Foodie Foodie as a pioneer in redefining dining experiences through architectural innovation and customer comfort.

The certificate was officially presented to Mr. Peter Lim of Foodie Foodie, cementing the brand’s status as a record-breaking icon in Malaysia’s vibrant F&B industry.


A Grand Opening to Remember

The milestone was celebrated during the Grand Opening of Foodie Foodie @ Kuchai, officiated by YB Puan Teresa Kok Suh Sim, Member of Parliament for Seputeh. Guests were treated to an unforgettable day of food, fun, and festivities, including:

  • 🐉 Lion Dance – ushering in prosperity and good luck
  • 🎤 Live Band – setting the mood with lively music
  • 🕺 Pop Dance Performances – delivering high-energy vibes
  • 🎭 Mascot Parade – perfect for family-friendly photo moments
  • 🎀 Official Launching Ceremony – marking a historic day for Foodie Foodie

Setting New Standards in ASEAN’s Culinary Scene

With this achievement, Foodie Foodie not only elevates the dining landscape of Kuala Lumpur but also underscores its vision of combining culinary excellence, creative innovation, and customer-focused experiences.

Foodie Foodie Kuchai Stalls:
1 NASI LEMAK
2 TIGER WOK
3 OCTOBEAR BURGER
4 P MASTER ENTERPRISE
5 BAK KUT TEH
6 OLD KLANG ROAD STEAM FISH
7 BAMBOO GILL FISH
8 GOLDEN GARDEN COFFEE HOUSE
9 WAN QUE GAO FU
10 MR KEROPOK ENTERPRISE
11 IPOH TREASURER RESTAURENT
12 LALA KING
13 YONG TAU FUU
14 FFK EATERY
17 PASTA & CHEESE
19 SATE BAUNG SDN BHD
20 VIETNAM HOT POT
21 BROTHER NORTH EASTERN BBQ
22 MOIRA SDN BHD
23 SHI CHUAN CUISINE
25 VIETNAM CUISINE
26 PORTUGIES GRIIL
27 CHUTIKAN
30 8 CHINESE FOOD HALL (TAIWAN CUISINE)
31 AUNTY CHOO CURRY MEE
32 STAR VILLAGE HAINAN WESTERN FOOD
33 BENTO SET
34 UNCLE SOON
35 HONG KONG CHEE CHEONG FUN
36 FFK F&B ENTERPRISEPORK NOODLE
37 YES SIR ERL NOODLE
38 LEONG KEE STEAM SOUP
39 CURRY FISH HEAD
40 TIGER SKIN STEW PORK
41 888 CHEESE POTATO
42 CHINA ROASTED DUCK
43 FISH BALL NOODLE
44 PAN MEE
45 EZZY (CHINA STALL)
46 SUGAR COATED FRUIT
47 CHICKEN WING
48 MOCHI
49 VEPE

“Foodie Foodie @ Kuchai was designed to be more than just a food court—it’s a hub where food, culture, and community come together. This ASEAN Records recognition is a proud milestone for our team and a symbol of what we aim to achieve for our customers,” said Peter Lim, Foodie Foodie representative.

Foodie Foodie @ Kuchai now stands as a destination where world-class food meets world-class innovation, setting a bold benchmark for F&B hubs across the region.

Thong Bowl Achieves ASEAN Records for Most Super Bowl-Sized Thai Beef Noodle Bowls Sold in One Year

Thong Bowl Achieves ASEAN Records for Most Super Bowl-Sized Thai Beef Noodle Bowls Sold in One Year

Thong Bowl, the innovative Thai dining brand renowned for its bold culinary presentations, has been officially recognised by ASEAN Records for achieving the Most Super Bowl-Sized Thai Beef Noodle Bowls Sold in One Year, with an impressive 25,037 bowls sold between August 2024 and July 2025.

This remarkable achievement was celebrated in a grand event at Thong Bowl, IOI City Mall, Putrajaya, attended by VIP guests, food lovers, and media representatives. The record not only showcases the brand’s culinary mastery but also reflects the overwhelming response from both dine-in and online customers who have embraced this larger-than-life version of a beloved Thai classic.

A Culinary Innovation That Captured ASEAN’s Appetite

Measuring in an extraordinary “Super Bowl” size, Thong Bowl’s signature Thai Beef Noodle has captivated thousands with its rich broth, tender beef slices, and generous portions—turning an everyday dish into a shareable dining experience. The combination of creative marketing, exceptional taste, and unforgettable presentation has cemented Thong Bowl’s status as a trailblazer in ASEAN’s food scene.

A Celebration of Milestones

The recognition ceremony featured an official ASEAN Records certificate presentation for “Most Beef Bowl Sold in Super Bowl Size” to Thong Bowl’s management, alongside the announcement of the restaurant’s Halal certification by JAKIM. The event included speeches from distinguished guests, including Syed Saddiq, and a prayer to mark the occasion. Guests were treated to signature creations such as Kangkung Fritter & Salted Egg Fried Coconut, Mega Thai Milk Tea with bobas, and the celebrated Super Beef Bowl.

Commitment to Excellence

Speaking at the ceremony, a Thong Bowl representative shared:

“This achievement is more than just a number—it represents the love our customers have shown for our food and the dedication of our team to deliver unforgettable dining experiences. We’re proud to share this recognition with every guest who has enjoyed our Super Bowl-sized creation.” said Mr Mohamed Nazim Bin Mohamed Azman, Thong Bowl

An ASEAN Culinary Leader

With this milestone, Thong Bowl joins the ASEAN Records Hall of Recognition, reinforcing its mission to innovate, inspire, and raise the bar for dining in the region. The restaurant’s blend of authenticity, creativity, and customer engagement continues to set it apart as one of the most dynamic players in the ASEAN food industry.

For more information about Thong Bowl, visit https://facebook.com/thongbowl

Hot FM Makes Waves with ASEAN Records for First and Deepest Outdoor Live Radio Broadcast Conducted Underwater in Open Sea

Hot FM Makes Waves with ASEAN Records for First and Deepest Outdoor Live Radio Broadcast Conducted Underwater in Open Sea

Hot FM has once again pushed the boundaries of radio broadcasting, this time earning a prestigious place in the ASEAN Records for achieving the First and Deepest Outdoor Live Radio Broadcast Conducted Underwater in Open Sea by Radio Personalities — reaching a depth of 10 meters with a broadcast duration of 90 minutes.

Following last year’s “Bekpes Hot Tawan Puncak Kinabalu” campaign, which earned a Malaysia Book of Records title for the Longest Non-Stop Mountain Radio Broadcast on Mount Kinabalu, the Bekpes Hot team — comprising popular hosts Khairy Jamaluddin, Johan, Farah Fauzana & AG Azmeer — took on a daring new challenge: scuba diving to the seabed of Pulau Bidong while broadcasting live to listeners nationwide.

Broadcasting Beneath the Waves

The historic feat began at 10:00 AM from the Marine Research Station of Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), with support from the UMT Diving School and the Special Actions Unit (UTK) of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM). After a meticulous descent into open waters, the broadcast successfully concluded at 12:30 PM, marking a first-of-its-kind achievement in Asia.

Pushing Boundaries in Radio Broadcasting

Senior Content Director of Hot FM, Raja Khairil Idris Raja Aznan, said:

“After conquering Malaysia’s highest peak, we wanted to challenge convention once again — this time by venturing into the ‘silent world’ beneath the sea. This challenge reflects the fighting spirit, courage, and innovation that define Hot FM’s DNA. It’s how we stay relevant and close to the hearts of our listeners.”

UMT Programme Director, Associate Professor Dr. Hasrizal Shaari, added:

“This collaboration underscores the media industry’s confidence in UMT’s expertise in marine sciences and scuba diving. It also elevates Pulau Bidong’s profile nationally, creating a unique and historic underwater broadcasting experience.”

Making Regional History

The campaign made waves across 10 Asian countries as the first-ever live radio broadcast from the seabed in open sea. Adding to the symbolic achievement, Hot FM installed a microphone-shaped monument and mini underwater studio — contributing to marine ecosystem preservation while leaving a lasting mark of this historic moment.

This accomplishment demonstrates Hot FM’s ability to blend entertainment, adventure, and cutting-edge broadcast technology in ways never before attempted in the region, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in the radio industry.

Acknowledgements

Hot FM extends its heartfelt thanks to its strategic partners Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) through UMT Diving School, Venticare Medical (M) Sdn Bhd, IST Malaysia, and main sponsor Gardenia Bakeries (KL) Sdn Bhd via its Gardenia Puazz! brand. Special thanks also go to UTK (PDRM), Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), all involved parties, and loyal listeners for their unwavering support.