First & Largest ASEAN Festival in Malaysia

First & Largest ASEAN Festival in Malaysia

The ASEAN Festival 2023, hosted at the prestigious LaLaport BBCC in Kuala Lumpur from 30th November  to 3rd December 2023, has concluded with tremendous success. Organized by GenYouth, the event was a harmonious convergence of ASEAN’s rich and diverse heritage, immersing visitors in vibrant cultures, delectable cuisines, captivating music, awe-inspiring performances, and more – all under one dynamic roof. It was truly a celebration of the unity and diversity inherent in the ASEAN region.

This significant event, generously supported by Tourism Malaysia through the provision of Cuti-Cuti Malaysia and Malaysia Truly Asia, saw active participation from Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia MADANI by JPM, featuring booths during the festival. A highlight was the remarkable ASEAN Mini Museum, showcasing the cultural wealth of ASEAN embassies.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FESTIVAL:

ASEAN Market: With about 100 booths, offering diverse products and crafts from member countries. Vendors from ASEAN nations flew in, contributing to this cultural extravaganza with unique goods, street food, and F&B delights.

ASEAN Travel Fair: Golden Destinations and Suka Travel presented the Muslim and Non-Muslim ASEAN Travel Fair, featuring representatives from various travel agencies. Visitors explored the rich tapestry of experiences available in the region.

ASEAN Music Festival: The festival hosted cultural shows by Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia embassies, featuring traditional dances, Muay Thai, Indonesian Traditional Dance, Fashion Show, Vietnamese Cultural Show, and live bands throughout the four days.

The festival kicked off with a Grand Opening Ceremony featuring the esteemed presence of H.E. Walid Abu Ali, Embassy of the State of Palestine, and H.E. Betty Oyella Bigombe, High Commission of The Republic of Uganda, H.E Ouk Chandara, Ambassador, Royal Embassy of Cambodia, H.E. Viengsavanh Sipraseuth Ambassador, The Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, H.E. Aung Soe Win Ambassador-Designate, Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, and distinguished embassy representatives from various countries. Mr. Mohd Yusri Bin Mhod Yusoff, Deputy Secretary-General (Culture) Ministry of Tourism, Art, and Culture Malaysia and Mohd Shahrir Mohd Ali, Director International Promotion (ASEAN), witnessed the 1st ASEAN Festival in Malaysia. The launch marked a historic moment as ASEAN embassies and dignitaries jointly inaugurated the ASEAN Festival, setting a record for the first and largest ASEAN Festival in Malaysia.

The second day witnessed the launch of ASEAN Cashless Day, with MDEC as the Guest of Honor. More than 20 business associations and their presidents joined the momentous occasion, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to innovation.

The 3rd day of ASEAN Festival dedicated to recognizing achievements, as the Youth Achievement Records Presentation Ceremony taken the center stage. The day also featured various kids show including “Ao Dai Show” by 20 Vietnam Kids”, Indonesian Raipai Aceh From Aceh” by Indoneisan School of Kuala Lumpur, Malayisa Kids Fashion Show, Muay Thai Show. The Youth Achievement Records Ceremony recognized outstanding individuals in various fields. 13 records were acknowledged, with 12 individuals receiving certificates by Director of International Youth Center representing the Guest of Honor, YB Hannah, Minister of Youth and Sports. For more information on Youth Achievement Records.

The festival concludes on the 3rd of December with a mix of cultural performances including Lion Dance, fashion shows, and Muay Thai demonstrations.

Besides, attendees were treated to an array of exciting Lucky Draw Prizes worth RM20,000, which included domestic and overseas travel packages to Bangkok, Langkawi, Penang, promising unforgettable getaways. Other coveted prizes encompassed Vivo phones, Honor watches, cutting-edge RAZER gadgets, VANZO Perfume sets, Vanilla Mille Crepe, FIPPER and MILLIOT & CO. cash vouchers, mouth-watering US Pizza slices and vouchers, EUREKA popcorn, irresistible The Famous Amos Cookies and vouchers, among many more enticing offerings.

Looking ahead, the organizers are already planning for ASEAN Festival 2024, aiming to build on the success of this year and create an even more unforgettable experience for attendees. The ASEAN Festival 2023 has truly been a celebration of unity, diversity, and the spirit of ASEAN. For more information and updates, follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/ASEANfestival, https://www.instagram.com/ASEANfestival/

Artroniq Announces EV Bike Launch with United Motors in Malaysia in Q4 of 2023

Artroniq Announces EV Bike Launch with United Motors in Malaysia in Q4 of 2023

Artroniq, a Malaysian investment holding company, and United E-Motor, an Indonesian electric motorcycle manufacturer, have jointly announced the imminent introduction of the United E-Motor electric two-wheeler brand in Malaysia. This launch event is scheduled to take place on October 21, 2023, at Pavilion Bukit Jalil.

During this event, the company intends to unveil two electric scooter models and reveal its expansion plans for the local network. One notable model in the United E-Motor lineup is the TX3000 electric scooter, positioned as a versatile “all-terrain electric vehicle.”

The announcement event at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia was attended by notable figures, including Indonesian Ambassador to Malaysia Datuk Indera Harmono, Chairman of the Asian Trade, Tourism, and Economic Council Budihardjo Iduansjah, Malaysian Member of Parliament Jaziri Alkaf Abdillah Suffian, PT Terang Dunia Internusa Director Andrew Mulyadi, and Artroniq’s Chief Financial Officer, Marcus Chin.

According to information on the United E-Motor Indonesian website, the TX3000 electric scooter boasts dimensions of 1,890 mm in length, 765 mm in width, and 1,195 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 1,380 mm. This model is equipped with two 60-volt, 28 Ah lithium batteries, providing a maximum range of 120 km. Charging from 0 to 80% can be achieved in four hours. It has a weight of 118 kg and a maximum load capacity of 167 kg, with a top speed of 90 km/h, including a reverse function up to 5 km/h.

The electric scooters will be locally assembled at the Batu Kawan facility in Penang, with a production target of 2,000 units across two models in 2024, as disclosed by Artroniq’s CFO, Marcus Chin. The assembly process is set to commence in November this year, following the launch event next month. Initially, the electric two-wheelers will be manufactured exclusively for the Malaysian market, with no current plans for export, according to Chin.

The United E-Motor electric scooter brand intends to establish a distribution and service network in Peninsular Malaysia’s northern, central, and southern regions, specifically in Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Johor. Service centers will operate under the Artroniq brand, as confirmed by Artroniq’s CFO, Chin.

Sailor Nur Shazrin Secures Malaysia’s First Gold at the Asian Games

Sailor Nur Shazrin Secures Malaysia’s First Gold at the Asian Games

Malaysia has proudly claimed its inaugural gold medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games, with sailor Nur Shazrin Abdul Latiff clinching the prestigious ILCA 6 gold at the Xiangshan Sailing Centre on Wednesday, September 27.

At just 25 years old, Nur Shazrin Abdul Latiff showcased remarkable skill and determination by conquering 11 races with a net point total of 25, a feat that earned her a well-deserved gold medal in the Asian Games.

Hong Kong’s Stephanie Norton secured the second position with 37 net points, while Singapore’s Victoria Chan displayed her talent and took home the bronze with a total of 38 points.

In the sport of sailing, the athlete with the lowest net points from 10 races emerges victorious, making Nur Shazrin Abdul Latiff’s achievement even more impressive.

Malaysia is thrilled to celebrate this historic moment as its talented sailor Nur Shazrin Abdul Latiff brought home the nation’s first-ever gold medal at the Asian Games. Her incredible performance serves as a source of inspiration and pride for the entire nation, reaffirming Malaysia’s presence on the international sports stage.

Picture credit: AtletMalaysia via Facebook/Bernama

Floating book fair Doulos Hope to dock at Penang

Floating book fair Doulos Hope to dock at Penang

Doulos Hope Ship Sets Sail for Penang from 2nd to 13th August 2023, then to Pasir Gudang, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu!

The renowned Doulos Hope ship is all set to dock at Penang’s Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT), making its much-awaited appearance in Malaysian waters! After Penang, it will continue its journey to Pasir Gudang and Kuching, before finally reaching Kota Kinabalu as its last port of call.

Calling all book enthusiasts! The public will have the incredible opportunity to step aboard the ship and explore a treasure trove of books. Don’t miss this unique experience – the entrance fee is only RM2!

During a special launch and welcoming ceremony attended by media and distinguished guests, Tim Dyer, the Director of Doulos Hope, and Captain of the ship, expressed his excitement about the upcoming voyage. The diverse crew, hailing from around 20 different nationalities, will embark on their journey on August 13, sailing to East Malaysian ports before venturing to Indo China.

Among the honored guests were the caretaker Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow, and another ship director, Mark Knight.

Doulos Hope is an impressive vessel, weighing 3,370 tonnes and stretching 85.5 meters long, with an impressive top speed of 13.5 knots.

Get ready to be part of this extraordinary voyage filled with knowledge and wonder! Mark your calendars and join us as we set sail on this incredible literary adventure. See you there!

Khiew Hoe Yean sets new national record in Fukuoka, diving setup revamp underway

Khiew Hoe Yean sets new national record in Fukuoka, diving setup revamp underway

Swimmer Khiew Hoe Yean achieved an outstanding feat by breaking his own national record in the men’s 800-meter freestyle event at the World Aquatic Championships in Fukuoka, Japan today.

The 20-year-old clocked a solid 8:05.11s to win his heat (heat 1) and emerge as the fastest Southeast Asian swimmer in the event, finishing ahead of Vietnam’s Tran Tuan Anh (8:08.56s), Singapore’s Glen Lim (8:09.90s) and Thailand’s Ratthawit Thammananthachote (8:14.87s).

Hoe Yean’s timing bettered his former national mark of 8:05.38s which he had previously set in December and placed him 29th overall from 39 swimmers in the event at the world meet.

He will take to the pool for the 200m backstroke event on Thursday.

Andrew Goh, who was the only other Malaysia swimmer in action today, placed 37th from 62 swimmers in the men’s 50m breaststroke event after clocking 28.75s in his heat.

Jayden Tan will compete in the men’s 200m individual medley tomorrow.

Meanwhile, the National Sports Council (NSC) and the Malaysia Swimming Federation (MAS) are set to revamp the setup for the national diving programme following a poor showing from the national senior divers in Fukuoka last week.

NSC Athletes Division director Jefri Ngadirin said a technical director, high performance manager and head coach will be appointed, mirroring what is already implemented in sports such as badminton.

“We have received a number of resumes from locals as well as foreigners. The interview for them will be done on Aug 1 and those selected will begin work in September,” said Jefri yesterday.

“The technical director will oversee the big picture while the head coach will be in charge of the elite team. The high performance manager will head our talent development efforts.

“We hope their appointment will help improve the performance of our divers.”

Malaysia failed to win a medal in diving at the world championships this year. The last time Malaysia went home empty handed was during the 2011 edition in China.

While the senior divers lacklustre performances were cause for concern, youngster Bertrand Rhodict Lises, 18, did well to reach the final of the men’s 10m platform individual event and secure qualification to next year’s Paris Olympics.

Source: New Straits Times

Singapore now has the most powerful passport in the world

Singapore now has the most powerful passport in the world

Singapore has the world’s most powerful passport in 2023. The recently released third quarter Henley Passport Index revealed a major shake-up, with Germany, Italy and Spain coming in second and Japan sharing the third rank with six other countries.

After evaluating all countries of the world, Henley creates a ranking of all the passports on the basis of the number of destinations their holders can visit visa-free with inputs from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), updating the report every quarter.

According to the release, Singapore passport holders get visa-free access to 192 countries out of 227 in the world. The nation has climbed over five ranks in the last ten years.

Just missing the top 10 mark, Malaysia made it to the 11th spot allowing passport holders to travel visa-free to 180 countries. Hong Kong shared the 17th spot with Andorra with visa-free access to 170 countries. Thailand ranked at 64th place with visa-free travel option for 79 countries. India took the 80th spot on the list with visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel option for 57 countries.

The weakest passport in the world is Afghanistan, with visa-free access to only 27 destinations.

The most powerful passports in the world, according to Henley Passport Index 2023.

RankVisa-free access toCountries
1192Singapore
2190Germany, Italy, Spain
3189Austria, Finland, France, Japan, Luxembourg, South Korea, Sweden
4188Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands, UK
5187Belgium, Czech Republic, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Switzerland
6186Australia, Hungary, Poland
7185Canada, Greece
8184Lithuania, US
9183Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia
10182Estonia, Iceland
11180Liechtenstein, Malaysia
20166Brunei
6479Thailand, Belarus, Lesotho
6973Indonesia, Tanzania
7466Philippines, Armenia, Cape Verde Islands
82 55Cambodia, Vietnam, Guinea-Bissau, Mali
8750Laos, Turkmenistan
8947Myanmar, Ethiopia
Source: Henley Passport Index

Jalan Kek Chuan in Penang: Ranked 17th Among the World’s Most Beautiful Streets

Jalan Kek Chuan in Penang: Ranked 17th Among the World’s Most Beautiful Streets

Penang’s Kek Chuan Road has been named one of ’40 of the Most Beautiful Streets in the World That Will Stop You in Your Tracks.

Penang and Phuket, Thailand, are the only Southeast Asia countries on the list.

Penang came in 17th after Symi, Greece; Boston, Massachusetts; Cape Town, South Africa; Chefchaouen, Morocco; Águeda, Portugal; Alberobello, Italy; Athens, Greece; Colmar, France; Burano, Italy; Kyoto, Japan; Buenos Aires, Argentina; San Miguel de Allende, Mexico; Paris, France; Cotswolds, England; and San Francisco, California.

Others on the list included Annecy, France; Phuket, Thailand; Copenhagen, Denmark; Sichuan, China; Istanbul, Turkey; London, England; Brooklyn, New York; Miami, Florida; Milos, Greece; Big Sur, California; Salvador, Brazil; Bergen, Norway; Bamberg, Germany; Campeche, Mexico; San Antonio, Texas; Villefranche-sur-Mer, France; Recife, Brazil; Charleston, South Carolina; Oita, Japan; Québec City, Canada; Bath, England; Cairo, Egypt; and Lisbon, Portugal.

The article described George Town, the capital of the Malaysian island Penang, as a Unesco World Heritage Site with lively street art and even more famed street food.

“If it’s an architectural eye candy you’re after, head to Jalan Kek Chuan to peruse the ornately detailed shops that blend Eastern and Western designs,” it added.

Meanwhile, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin believed this recognition would bring a profound impact on Penang’s local economy and the tourism industry as a whole.

“It gives me great pleasure to share with you that our very own local street – Kek Chuan Road, has been accredited as the top 17th of the most beautiful streets in the world.

“Amidst countless breathtaking destinations across the globe, the humble street of our state has emerged as a shining gem, captivating the hearts of visitors from every corner of the world,” he added.

Yeoh said Penang could expect an influx of curious travellers, eager to witness the state’s very-own Kek Chuan Road in Penang.

Source: New Straits Times

Aaliyah Yoong Hanifah: Shattering Records and Making Waves in Water Skiing for Malaysia and Asia

Aaliyah Yoong Hanifah: Shattering Records and Making Waves in Water Skiing for Malaysia and Asia

National water skier Aaliyah Yoong Hanifah created history after clinching the jump bronze medal at the Under-21 World Championships in Boca Laguna, Mexico, on Saturday.The 19-year-old, who is now based in the United States where she attends the Florida Southern College, leapt to a distance of 45.20m to settle for third place.

Chile’s Agustina Varas claimed the gold with a flying distance of 49.50m, while Australia’s Sade Ferguson pipped Aaliyah to silver with 45.30m.It was still, however, a tremendous achievement for the youngster who became the first Malaysian and Asian to win a medal at a water ski world meet.

Aaliyah also enjoyed a strong run in the slalom final. She improved from her 12th position in the preliminaries to finish ninth in the final.With nothing to lose, she stayed consistent enough for a 3/55kmh/12m finish to move up to ninth.

The event was won by American Annemarie Wroblewski, who finished with 0.5/55/10.75, while Sade (4/55/11.25) and Chile’s Trinidad Espinal (3.5/55/11.25) took silver and bronze, respectively.The only dampener for Aaliyah was falling short of taking a medal in the overall category.

Aaliyah had started the day in third spot, but Sade’s excellent showing meant she got bumped down to fourth spot.She finished with a total of 2065.38, behind third-placed Australian Lara Butlin, who garnered 2136.98 points.

American Kennedy Hansen won the overall gold with 2786.30 points, while Sade took the silver with 2553.80.”I am excited as I pushed hard for my first world podium,” said Aaliyah.

Malaysian Waterski and Wakeboard Federation (MWWF) coach Hanifah Yoong said it was a proud moment for Aaliyah and Malaysia.”This is certainly a historic moment as Aaliyah is the first Malaysian and Asian to stand on the podium at a world meet,” said Hanifah.

Source: New Straits Times

Malaysia and Indonesia are strengthening their trade, investment, and halal ties

Malaysia and Indonesia are strengthening their trade, investment, and halal ties

Malaysia and Indonesia today further heightened their collaboration on trade, investment and halal sector following the signing of agreements in conjunction with the visit by Indonesian President Joko Widodo and his delegation to Malaysia.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and his Indonesian counterpart Minister of Trade Zulkifli Hasan, representing Malaysia and Indonesia, sealed the border trade agreement and memorandum of understanding on investment promotion cooperation during the bilateral instrument signing ceremony at Seri Perdana Complex here, today.

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) director-general Hakimah Mohd Yusoff and head of the Halal Product Assurance Agency Indonesia Muhammad Aqil Irham signed the mutual cooperation on recognition of halal certification for halal products.

Malaysia also sealed the agreement on border crossing signed by Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Indonesia’s Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian.

Joko Widodo is on a two-day working visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, starting Wednesday, to further strengthen the longstanding and close relations between the two economies.

Indonesia was Malaysia’s sixth largest trading partner and second largest among Asean member states in 2022 with total trade of RM130.14 billion (US$29.55 billion).

Source: Bernama

Sarawak flagpole to be tallest flagpole in the country

Sarawak flagpole to be tallest flagpole in the country

The Sarawak government has unveiled plans to construct the nation’s tallest flagpole in Petra Jaya, Kuching. This monumental structure will proudly hoist the state’s flag, symbolizing Sarawak’s heritage and achievements. According to The Borneo Post, insiders have revealed that the proposed flagpole will stand an impressive 99 meters tall, with an estimated project cost of approximately RM30 million.

The strategic location for this remarkable flagpole is near the Tea House or Fort Margherita, within close proximity to the State Legislative Assembly Complex. Surpassing the current tallest flagpole in Malaysia, situated in Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka Square, the Sarawak flagpole will reach a height of 4 meters higher, making it a remarkable sight to behold.

Sources report that the flagpole’s erection serves as a tribute to Sarawak’s unwavering commitment in safeguarding its rights and privileges during the formation of Malaysia. The Borneo Post is diligently gathering additional details about the project, including its anticipated commencement and completion dates.

The current highest flagpole in Malaysia, erected in 1989, stands at a towering height of 95 meters. Positioned at the southern end of the iconic Merdeka Square, this flagpole marks the historic spot where the Union Jack was lowered, signifying the end of British rule, and the Malayan flag was raised for the first time on 31 August 1957. Remarkably, it holds the distinction of being the twelfth tallest flagpole globally, trailing the Belagavi flagpole in India, which soars to a height of 110 meters. The title for the world’s tallest flagpole presently belongs to the 201.952-meter flagpole in Egypt.