Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

‘Growth Watch Month’ Addresses Childhood Stunting in Malaysia by Empowering Parents and Professionals

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Key collaborators launching the IMFeD’s Growth Watch Month 2023

8th June 2023 marks the beginning of Growth Watch Month, which aims to bring parents and healthcare professionals together to avoid stunting in kids and teenagers so they can reach their full development potential for a better future. This annual nationwide event was created by the Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA) as part of its IMFeD For Growth campaign, which started in 2012.

Launching of Growth Watch Month
Growth Watch Month was jointly launched by the MPA and its partners, namely, the Malaysian Medical Association, Malaysian Family Medicine Specialists’ Association, Malaysian Association of Kindergartens, and Malaysian Association of Registered Early Child Care and Development.

Growth Watch Month is primarily focused on identifying kids and teenagers who are either stunted or at risk of stunting, according to Professor Dr. Lee Way Seah, Chairman of IMFeD For Growth Programme. The organisers will guide their parents on the proper nutritional interventions and assistance required to bring their children’s growth back on track through relevant activities.

While the majority of Malaysian children and adolescents are growing normally, childhood stunting remains a concern for the rest of them.

said Professor Dr Lee Way Seah, Chairman of IMFeD For Growth Programme

Children are expected to reach 60% of their adult height by the age of five. Sadly, according to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2022, 1 in 5 children, or 21.2%, had stunted growth. Additionally, the NHMS 2022 found that 6.8% of our teenagers were stunted. These individuals were not getting the full advantage of growth spurts that would have brought their potential adult height by an additional 15% to 20%.

Stunting Amongst Children in Malaysia
Stunting has both immediate and long-term effects that are evident. Children with stunts frequently become sick more frequently, lose more learning opportunities, perform less well in school, and have lower self-esteem. They run a possibility of developing stunting as adults, which is linked to a higher risk of developing chronic diseases, reduced economic productivity, and a lower lifetime-earning potential.

We need to nip stunting in the bud.  It always starts with growth faltering.  This is when children are not receiving enough nutrition so their growth rate literally ‘slows’ down. Without adequate energy, protein, fats and micronutrients, including calcium, vitamin D and so on, their bones and muscles will not be able to develop at a healthy rate.

continued Professor Dr Lee Way Seah, Chairman of IMFeD For Growth Programme

Faltering growth can happen at any stage between childhood and adolescence, and because it usually happens gradually, it frequently goes undetected. The children might eventually never be able to regain their height and turn into permanently short adults who will have significant challenges for the rest of their lives.

Professor Lee emphasized that in order to attain optimal growth, a number of essential conditions must be met. These conditions include proper feeding habits, optimum nutrition, age-appropriate physical activity levels, and regular growth monitoring starting at a young age. He further stated that parents are encouraged to bring their kids, who are between the ages of 1 to 17, to have their growth evaluated by a medical practitioner who has received training in the M-I-M method.

The M-I-M Method

‘Measure’ is the first M, which stands for measurement. To determine if the children’s growth falls within the normal, at-risk, or stunted limits, the measures of the children’s weight and height are plotted onto WHO growth charts.

The following letter is the “I”, to ‘Identify’ the root problem if the kids’ growth is limited or falters. Malnutrition, unhealthy lifestyle habits, underlying medical conditions, poor parenting skills, or a combination of these, are common causes of development failure in children.

Finally, the medical staff would be equipped to “Manage” the issue. Interventions could include promoting healthy lifestyle behaviour, enhancing parenting skills, and providing adequate and appropriate nutrition.

Activities of Growth Watch Month
Growth Watch Month offers the chance to draw parents’ attention to growth, according to Dr. Selva Kumar Sivapunniam, President of the Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA).

We will work with all relevant stakeholders to conduct educational activities. These will include media write-ups and interviews. Parents and caregivers will also be able to enjoy a series of four lively Parents Forums, broadcast live over Zoom, https://www.facebook.com/MPAEDS/ and https://www.youtube.com/@mpaeds

said Dr Selva Kumar Sivapunniam, President of the Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA)

The forums will feature a celebrity host and members of the IMFeD For Growth Expert Panel and address subjects including:

  • Feeding, Nutrition And Growth For Tiny Tots
  • Helping Children Shine In School
  • Nurturing Growth Through The Teenage Years
  • Parenting Tips For Healthy Children

Dr. Selva noted that the IMFeD For Growth Annual Screening Campaign, which will be held from August to November 2023 in all IMFeD clinics listed on https://clinics.imfed.my/, will be another significant highlight of Growth Watch Month. Since 2018, IMFeD has screened 127,000 kids.

Panel discussion on “Stunting in Children & Adolescents: Nature or Nature?”

During today’s Growth Watch Month start ceremony, a forum with the title “Stunting in Children and Adolescents: Nature or Nurture?” was held. IMFeD For Growth members gave insightful insights and advice during the session, which was moderated by celebrity host Daphne Iking. The experts include Dr Yong Junina Fadzil, a Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Cardiologist; Prof Dr Firdaus Mukhtar, a Clinical Psychologist; and Ms Rozanna M Rosly, a Clinical Dietitian.

For more information about IMFeD Malaysia and Growth Watch Month, visit https://www.imfed.my

Food & Drink

Embracing Heritage and Innovating Tradition with MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan

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I love laksa in all its varieties, including Asam Laksa, Nyonya Laksa, Laksa Johor, Laksa Kedah, and many more. Due to Malaysia’s heterogeneous population, the laksa list is endless. This is what makes Malaysia unique!

Hence, it is no doubt that the Laksa is a symbol of Malaysian culinary culture given its evocative aroma, rich flavour, and satisfying texture. The brand-new MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan, with its original flavour and distinctive aroma, is being introduced in honour of Malaysians’ love of laksa and as a tribute to the tradition of this Malaysian classic cuisine.

As a brand that has over 50-year history and a meaningful space in the hearts of Malaysians, MAGGI® continues to proudly celebrate our heritage in all our offerings. Today, we are delighted to be part of the celebration of Malaysia’s vibrant Laksa dishes as we present our latest product innovation that pays homage to our nation’s diverse and distinctive culinary heritage: our all-new MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan.

said Mr. Juan Aranols, CEO of Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad at the launch event held at the vintage-themed mansion, The Agam in Kuala Lumpur

Celebrity Chef Anis Nabilah and Professor Dr. Shahrim Karim, who is a Professor of Malaysian Heritage Food and Culture at the Faculty of Food Science and Technology at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), were in attendance at the launch event. They demonstrated their culinary skills and expertise by creating a delicious Laksa dish while sharing the dish’s rich history and evolution.

Laksa is a cuisine that has its roots in the Peranakan population and is heavily influenced by Southeast Asian cultures from China, Malaysia, and Indonesia. According to Professor Dr. Shahrim Karim, Laksa is truly Malaysia’s national dish that transcends cultures and geographical boundaries. It has evolved into a variety of dishes that we are familiar with and enjoy today, ranging from the traditional Curry Laksa to more creative dishes like Assam Laksa, Sarawak Laksa, Nyonya Laksa, and Johor Laksa.

The soul of Laksa lies in its vibrant and aromatic flavours. A good Laksa is all about the balancing act between various ingredients with the constant stirring towards the ‘pecah minyak’ stage, which is vital for the perfect Laksa flavour that culminates in a true culinary delight.

added Professor Dr. Shahrim Karim

With the growing popularity of making laksa the “Goreng” style, people have been looking for new ways to enjoy this well-known meal with family and friends in recent years. The All-New MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan is a unique variation on the Malaysian Laksa heritage that draws inspiration from this popular trend.

As Malaysia’s trusted household brand, MAGGI® aspires to deliver product offerings that embody true Malaysian flavours. Thanks to our MAGGI® Chefs’ continued dedication and culinary expertise, we have given a modern-day twist to Laksa as we introduce our latest innovation MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan. Indeed, the secret of making a good Laksa lies in its base. Hence, our new creation is carefully crafted with a blend of key aromatic ingredients, bunga kantan, daun kesum, galangal, along with fresh ingredients: onions, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, garlic and ginger, slowly cooked into a paste until ‘pecah minyak’ to deliver the distinctive flavour of the iconic Laksa dish whilst preserving its authentic recipe. We are embracing this heritage dish, by making it possible to enjoy a great tasting Laksa Goreng – anytime, anywhere!

said Ms. Ivy Tan, Business Executive Officer of MAGGI®, Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad

In keeping with the brand’s commitment to supporting Malaysians Cook the Difference, MAGGI® continues to offer exceptional food options for customers looking for easy-to-prepare, delicious meals. The 100% Australian wheat used to make the MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan noodles is a good source of both protein and carbs. MAGGI® is dedicated to serving the greatest food to customers, from sourcing premium ingredients to strict quality control.

MAGGI® has released two variants of MAGGI® Mi Goreng noodles to
embrace Malaysian heritage and flavours – MAGGI® Mi Goreng Cili ala Kampung and the all-new MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan. MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan is available at all leading supermarkets, hypermarkets and online stores.

Very beautiful heritage building, The Agam
Accidental colour coordinated with the goodie bag

Find out more about the MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan here:
Website: https://www.maggi.my/en/Maggi-Happenings/Maggi-Mi-Goreng-Laksa-Warisan/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/MaggiMalaysia/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/Maggi.Malaysia/

One with Ah Hen, Local Influencer
One with Arwind Kumar, Local Influencer

About MAGGI®
MAGGI® is a recognised global brand that has become a household name in Malaysia. Its core mission is to create good-food moments that bring families closer together. Through its wide range of products and food solutions, MAGGI® helps mothers to prepare tasty and balanced homemade meals for their families every day. The brand is also committed to the ever-evolving needs of meal providers, providing new products and ideas, which continue to delight and inspire Malaysian families on the goodness of homemade. To learn more, please visit www.maggi.my or our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/MaggiMalaysia

About Nestlé Malaysia
Nestlé is the world’s largest food and beverage manufacturer. Headquartered in Switzerland, Nestlé is present in more than 180 countries around the world, and our 270,000 employees are committed to Nestlé’s purpose of unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come. Our performance is driven by our Nutrition, Health and Wellness strategy. Nourishing Malaysians since 1912, Nestlé has earned the trust of our consumers through our quality brands and products. We are committed to improving the lives of the communities in which we operate, whilst maintaining our Halal excellence and integrity. 

This is in line with our promise of delivering GOOD FOOD, GOOD LIFE to all. To learn more about how we have been nourishing Malaysians for over a century, do visit www.nestle.com.my or our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/Nestle.Malaysia

My Personal, Travel

8 Reasons Why You Have to Visit Georgetown, Penang: A Captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malaysia

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Photo by Merry Zar on Pexels.com

Georgetown, located on the northeastern coast of Penang Island in Malaysia, is a vibrant city that offers a wealth of cultural heritage, historical significance, and tantalizing cuisine. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a fascinating past and a thriving present. It is the place where my wife grew up in and her family still lives there. Basically I travel quite often to Penang every now and then. Hence, I would really love to share with you about what I know about Penang. Let’s delve into the 8 reasons why you should travel Georgetown:

#1 Historical Significance
Established in 1786 by the British East India Company, Georgetown quickly grew into a bustling trading port. Its architecture reflects the blend of Eastern and Western influences, showcasing a captivating mix of Chinese, Indian, Malay, and British colonial styles. Strolling through its streets feels like stepping back in time.

#2 UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2008, Georgetown’s historic center was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing its outstanding preservation of multicultural heritage and historic buildings. This distinction highlights the city’s commitment to conserving its unique cultural identity and architectural gems.

#3 Street Art and Murals
Georgetown is renowned for its vibrant street art scene. The city has become an open-air gallery, with numerous captivating murals adorning its walls. The famous “Marking George Town” project by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic showcases interactive and thought-provoking artworks depicting local life and culture.

#4 Culinary Delights
Food enthusiasts flock to Georgetown to experience its delectable cuisine. The city is celebrated as a haven for food lovers, offering a diverse array of flavors influenced by Chinese, Indian, and Malay communities. From aromatic hawker stalls to charming cafes and upscale restaurants, Georgetown’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself. Food to look out for when you’re in Penang are char kuey teow, prawn mee, pasembur, nasi kandar, asam laksa, cendol, white curry noodle, rojak and many more!

#5 Festivals and Celebrations
Georgetown comes alive with vibrant festivities throughout the year. The city celebrates a range of cultural and religious festivals, such as Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and Thaipusam. These celebrations showcase the harmonious coexistence of different ethnic communities and provide a captivating glimpse into their traditions and customs.

#6 Cultural Scene
Georgetown is a thriving hub of arts and culture in Malaysia. The city hosts numerous art exhibitions, music festivals, and cultural performances, attracting artists and enthusiasts from around the world. The Penang State Museum and Art Gallery, located in Georgetown, offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich heritage and contemporary art scene.

#7 Shopping and Entertainment
Georgetown offers a diverse shopping experience, catering to every taste. From bustling markets and vibrant night bazaars to modern shopping malls, visitors can find everything from traditional crafts and antiques to fashionable clothing and local delicacies. After sunset, the city’s nightlife comes alive with trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues.

#8 Natural Attractions
Penang boasts natural attractions like Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang National Park, Tropical Spice Garden, Penang Hill, Botanical Gardens, and Monkey Beach. These diverse spots offer sandy shores, rainforests, gardens, hilltop views, and secluded beach retreats, providing visitors with a range of options to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Georgetown, Penang, is an enchanting city that seamlessly combines its rich history, multicultural heritage, and vibrant modernity. Its captivating UNESCO World Heritage status, tantalizing cuisine, and thriving arts scene make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in Malaysia. Immerse yourself in Georgetown’s charm and discover the wonders that await around every corner. So it’s time to plan ahead your trip to Penang now and book your stay here!

My Personal

Men’s Biore Double Scrub Facial Foam Range Unveils the Secret to Cleanse and Refresh with Naim Daniel

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KAO Men’s Biore Double Scrub Facial Foam range is better than ever at providing its users with a novel, refreshing sensation after each wash! Among the standout products in this line are the Micro Power Scrubs with Icy Menthol Infusion and the Black Tea Formulation, which is efficient in removing oil and pollutants.

With the use of the Advanced Japan Million-scrub Technology, the Micro Power Scrubs efficiently remove germs, oil, and debris that have built up deep inside pores, leaving behind clean, healthy skin.

Men’s Biore is constantly innovating to meet customers’ needs. Our simple yet effective one-step solution, though has been in the market for some time, still constantly offer newness to our customers. Our products undergo improvements every two years so that our customers can look forward to a new cleansing experience from the formulation, scent, to the packaging.

said Mr Nishimaki Akira, President of Kao Malaysia

In order to reflect Kao’s Kirei Lifestyle, which aims to live in a beautiful and clean environment, the Men’s Biore Double Scrub Facial Foam range has also been repackaged. And as a result, one can radiate confidence and take pleasure in the calm that nature has to give.

Men’s Biore Double Scrub Facial Foam offers 5 variations to pick from, including Deep Clean Extra Cool, Deep Clean, Bright Energy, Acne Solution, and Oil Clear, depending on your skin type or condition. The information for each version is as follow:

Men’s Biore Double Scrub Deep Clean Extra Cool
Targeting blackheads, this double scrub variation uses the Black Mineral to cleanse 1.5x times more thoroughly, leaving skin cleaner and more luminous. After each wash, feel unbelievably cool and revitalising. works perfectly given the current heat!

Men’s Biore Double Scrub Deep Clean
With Mineral Clay, this one provides 1.5x times more cleaning power. In a single step, it provides the consumer with both long-lasting oil control and deep cleansing. The deep-pore-cleansing oil-absorbing scrapes eliminate all pollutants, blackheads, and dull skin to reveal clear, glowing skin.

Men’s Biore Double Scrub Bright Energy
Make use of Vitamin B3 to achieve skin that is notably brighter and more uniform. 90% of consumers concur that skin looks more vibrant and brighter just a few washes later. It efficiently deep cleans and exfoliates the skin, revealing healthier, more radiant skin.

Men’s Biore Double Scrub Acne Solution
A fantastic remedy for acne-prone skin. Tea Tree Oil, a component in its formulation, works as an antibacterial agent to flush out bacteria, excess oil, and debris from pores. Additionally, it assists in fading acne scars for skin that appears cleaner and more youthful.

Men’s Biore Double Scrub Oil Clear
Black Tea and Icy Menthol are included in the formulation to provide long-lasting oil control and freshness. It removes excess oil from the skin effectively, leaving skin without shine. After every wash, it also emits a fresh and cooling sensation.

The New Face for Men’s Biore – Naim Daniel
Naim Daniel Baharin, a singer, songwriter, and actor, has been chosen as Kao Men’s Biore’s new brand ambassador. Naim is a perfect embodiment of the brand because of his high energy and passion for what he does. He serves as a fantastic representative for the brand thanks to his nice looks and clear skin.

Maintaining good skin hygiene is not just about having good looks but it is to achieve good skin health. Good skin health is as important as taking care of one’s general health.

said Naim Daniel, New Brand Ambassador

The long-lasting oil control feature works well for him and the icy menthol sensation leaves him feeling fresh when out for extended periods of time, so he prefers to use the Men’s Biore Double Scrub Oil Clear.

Men’s Biore Double Scrub Facial Foam is priced at RM15.40 and is offered in all major retailers, pharmacies, hypermarkets, and provision stores.

For more information on Men’s Bioré products, visit www.kao.com/my/mensbiore/ or www.facebook.com/MensBioreMalaysia

About KAO Malaysia
Kao (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd was established in 1973 as an overseas subsidiary of Kao Corporation, the No. 1 toiletry manufacturer in Japan, with over 120 years of history.

In Malaysia, Kao brands have grown over the years in the Malaysian beauty care, home care and sanitary industries, marketing a wide range of products and brand such as Bioré, Liese, Attack, Magiclean, Laurier and Merries.

Kao Malaysia adopts the Kao worldwide mission, which is to strive for absolute satisfaction, enrichment of the lives of Malaysians through the Company’s core domains of cleanliness, beauty and health. Kao stands firm to its vision to be a company that is closest to its customers, earning the respect and trust of all stakeholders and contribute to the sustainable development of society.

Kao is also committed to enhancing their contribution to society through a renewed focus on ESG. Its ESG strategy is in its service to consumers’ needs, behaviors and desires to live sustainable lifestyles that contribute to a more sustainable world. Kao calls this the Kirei Lifestyle.

Kao is stepping up innovation at every level of their business to support consumers in living a beautiful life, inside and out.

Grooming, Lifestyle, Nature

Unplug & Reconnect: Kahf Lenggong Outdoor Festival 2023 is Back to Unite Communities through Outdoor Adventure

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Lenggong Outdoor Festival 2023 (ODF23), which will take place from 16 – 18 June 2023 at Resort Tasik Raban, Lenggong in Perak, Malaysia, is back this year following its first successful event held in 2022, which attracted over 30 community groups and more than 1,000 active lifestyle enthusiasts from across the country.

Lenggong, also known as “Mini Amazon Malaysia,” is renowned for its stunning landscapes and is once again chosen this year as the main location for a variety of extreme sports that serve to indirectly advance the district’s tourism industry.

YB Datuk Seri Dr. Shamsul Anuar Nasarah, Deputy Home Minister who is also Lenggong Member of Parliament

ODF23 is a uniting medium and platform that combines many elements of life; among others the active-healthy lifestyle, physical and extreme outdoor adventure that best commemorate all range and societies as well as the connected communities which projected to the local economy to boost. ODF23 is a timely event in the efforts to create more positive communities which support each other and the purpose of this festival to be the one with healthy vibes and acceptable
by many,

said YB Datuk Seri Dr. Shamsul Anuar Nasarah, Deputy Home Minister who is also Lenggong Member of Parliament

With the theme “Unplug & Reconnect,” the co-organizers of ODF23, Majlis Daerah Lenggong (MDL) and LOCCO, invite all participants to take advantage of the chance to meet new people and share experiences through a range of organized activities.

More individuals from abroad are anticipated to participate this year, where they can network with locals and celebrate the diversity of interests through a variety of ODF contents like forum sessions, workshops, explorations, and musical performances.

Camping, kayaking, Stand Up Paddling, bridge rappelling, and archery are just some of the activities. This year’s “Merentas Desa” will also feature newly-inaugurated activities like the ODF Ride, Lake Flying Fox, Flatland Skimboarding, and Tree Climbing. A few workshops will also be held, including ones on making organic soap, water safety, ultralight hiking, rope climbing, and handmade paracord.

Sharing sessions and forums, such as Cerita Kedai Kopi, Sembang Bawah Fly, community awareness, and cycling technique workshops, are also planned for ODF23 to spice up the event. Evening performances by gig and local bands like Teman Lelaki, Cisco, Nami, The Mirza, and others will keep attendees entertained.

The most exciting aspect of this year’s ODF edition is the festival’s collaboration with the Jakarta-based Kahf brand, which has since changed its name to “KAHF LENGGONG OUTDOOR FESTIVAL 2023.”

Men’s personal care and grooming company Kahf offers a variety of halal goods, including facial washes, EDTs, moisturisers, and beard treatments. The brand constantly strives to prioritise quality in support of men’s active lifestyles with a mild formulation and a contemporary image to awaken functional, emotional, and spiritual benefits.

In an effort to reach Kahf users and introduce the Kahf product line through outdoor activities and today’s active lifestyle, Kahf is participating as the main sponsor of the event.

This year’s ODF23, which aims to attract more than 1,500 participants, is supported by more than 35 community groups, including ANBOT, HAUSBOOM, BOOM+, Lost World of Tambun, and Kembara Meals. Additionally, RNR Adventures, Skycamp, Santrav, Rileklah, Pretty World, 30 Ascend, Project Vacation, Santrav, Tanjak, Decathlon, and Nomadism are among strategic partners.

Tickets can still be purchased. Through our official website, www.outdoorfest.my, ticket purchases can be made by those who are interested in outdoor activities. Participants could also learn more about ODF23 by keeping up with their social media updates below:
Instagram: @outdoorfestmy
Twitter : @outdoorfestmy
Facebook : facebook.com/outdoorfestmy

Catch the highlights of the Lenggong Outdoor Festival 2022 here:

About Kahf
Kahf is a halal and nature-inspired men’s skincare brand that always strives to prioritise quality in supporting men’s active lifestyles. As a brand, Kahf carries #JalanYangKuPilih has a tagline to show commitment in spreading positive influences that can accompany men in every path he chooses to become better human beings and benefit those around them. As a brand that supports men’s activities, Kahf also continues to collaborate with various men’s lifestyle communities to jointly spread goodness according to the path they choose.

Website: www.kahfeveryday.com
Instagram: @kahfeveryday.my
Tiktok: @kahfeveryday.my