Category: Lifestyle

Lifestyle

Amazing Seniors Talent Quest 2023, A Special Talent Competition for Seniors Over 50 is Open for Registration Now!

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Do you know anyone aged 50 and above that has a talent yet to be discovered and does not have a channel to shine? In a world where talent competitions predominantly focus on the younger generation, here’s a groundbreaking talent competition that defies convention and celebrates the remarkable abilities of adults aged 50 and above – Talent Quest 2023.

This extraordinary event offers a unique platform for more senior individuals to proudly showcase their exceptional talents and skills, whether it’s in singing, dancing, magic performance, or any other kind of talent show. At Talent Quest, they firmly believe in the boundless potential of individuals who have reached this stage in life, and you are invited to be part of this incredible journey.

I think that, in a society where seniors can sometimes feel overlooked, Talent Quest is on a mission to illuminate the vibrancy and endless possibilities of their creative expression. It is good that Talent Quest provides them with a stage to perform, this event is not only breaking barriers but also redefining the very essence of a talent competition for seniors aged 50 and above.

Join Talent Quest now in celebrating the ageless spirit and the wealth of experiences that come with age. It’s time to explore this exceptional talent competition, discover the incredible talents that often go unnoticed in mainstream competitions, and be inspired by the enduring passion that thrives within those above 50.

Moreover, here’s some exciting news for you! The Seniors Talent Contest isn’t just about recognizing talent; it’s about celebrating life, creativity, and the remarkable passion that defines those aged 50 and above. And guess what? Cash prizes and gifts worth up to RM75,000 are up for grabs!

So, are you ready to be a part of this extraordinary journey, support the talented contestants, and be inspired by the brilliance that knows no age limits? Join Talent Quest 2023, the ultimate talent competition for seniors 50 and above, and redefine what it means to celebrate talent!

How It Works
Starting on 15 July 2023, you can seize this golden opportunity to share your talents with the organizer through video entries. Your performance can be anything you excel in, whether it’s singing, dancing, playing an instrument, or even acting.

After the deadline which is 1 September 2023, the organizer will carefully select the top 20 semi-finalists. These lucky individuals will have the chance to shine on the live stage during the Amazing Seniors Life Begins at 50 Seniors Festival 2023. Mark your calendars because this spectacular event will be happening at Atria Shopping Gallery in Petaling Jaya, from 29 September to 1 October 2023.

Now, here’s the exciting part! As part of the grand finale of the Talent Quest, a distinguished panel of esteemed icons, including the renowned Dato’ Khadijah Ibrahim, will be right there, taking their seats as judges for this spectacular showdown.

For more info on the Senior Talent Quest here: https://www.amazingseniors.my/talentquest

About The Organizers
Talent Quest 2023 is organized by a passionate team of individuals dedicated to promoting the well-being and talents of seniors in our community. At Amazing Seniors, they firmly believe that fostering creativity and providing a platform for expression are essential in ensuring a vibrant and inclusive society.

Amazing Seniors is a dynamic digital platform designed for adults aged 50 and above to connect, learn, thrive, and revel in the richness of life. They embrace the joys of getting older and envision a world where ageing is celebrated as a privilege. Amazing Seniors App is FREE to download on Android and iOS platforms, and is aimed at helping our users discover community events, read inspiring stories, and access valuable resources tailored for older adults.

Download the Amazing Seniors App here:
Google Play: https://tinyurl.com/yd62r8kh
App Store: https://tinyurl.com/46pzx4k4

Lifestyle, My Personal

Threads: The New Social Media App That’s Taking Instagram by Storm

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Threads is a social media platform and networking service owned and operated by Meta Platforms, a company based in the United States. With similarities to Twitter, Threads allows users to interact with each other through responses, reposts, and likes while sharing text, photographs, and videos. To use Threads, users must have an Instagram account and use the same handle on both platforms. Since its launch, Threads has emerged as a strong competitor in the social media space, poised to rival Twitter. While the web version has fewer features, the app offers comprehensive functionality and is easily accessible on iOS and Android smartphones. In an impressive feat, Threads attracted 100 million users within its first five days, surpassing the previous record set by ChatGPT.

Pros of Threads:

  1. Enhanced character limit: Threads allows users to post longer messages of up to 500 characters, enabling more detailed and expressive content.
  2. Personalization and customization: Users can easily share their Threads posts on Instagram, expanding their reach. They can also create a separate list of Close Friends for sharing more personal and intimate content.
  3. Discovery and exploration: Threads suggests posts from users and accounts that users have not yet followed, facilitating the discovery of new connections and a wider range of content.

Cons of Threads:

  1. Limited features: As Threads is still in its early stages, it currently lacks certain features available on other social media platforms, such as sharing Reels or stories.
  2. Limited community engagement: Establishing a culture and community similar to Twitter’s may be challenging for Threads, as Twitter has developed its unique environment over many years, encompassing freedom of expression, humor, memes, trends, and hashtags.
  3. Potential addiction: The constant availability of new posts and notifications on Threads can make it addictive, potentially affecting users’ ability to manage their screen time effectively.
  4. Lower popularity: While Threads is gaining popularity as a new social media app, it is not as widely used as established platforms like Twitter. Consequently, users may have fewer followers and friends compared to other social media sites.

Have you joined Threads yet? Explore the app’s intriguing features and potential! Follow me on Threads

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

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

Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

United Against Lupus: #UnlockingLupus for a Stronger Support System in Malaysia

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Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), also known as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease1 that requires a lifelong struggle for those who have it. Despite the fact that there are 43 cases of lupus per 100,000 people in Malaysia,2 the disease is underdiagnosed, leaving lupus patients and their caregivers to fight the disease alone. The Malaysian SLE Association (PSLEM) and the Malaysian Society of Rheumatology (MSR) have teamed up with AstraZeneca to launch #UnlockingLupus, a public awareness campaign aimed at promoting early diagnosis and lupus awareness.

The #UnlockingLupus campaign was launched in conjunction with World Lupus Day, and it was officiated by Dr. Izzuna Mudla Mohamed Ghazali, Deputy Director, Malaysian Health Technology Assessment Section, Medical Development Division, Ministry of Health. Also present were Dr. Heselynn Hussein, President of the Malaysian SLE Association, Dr. Syahrul Sazliyana, UKM Rheumatologist and a representative of the Malaysian Society of Rheumatology, and Bernice Chan, Chief Marketing Officer of AstraZeneca.

AstraZeneca is supporting a microsite that was specifically created for the #UnlockingLupus campaign and is located at www.unlockinglupusmy.com. The microsite acts as a one-stop resource for information on lupus, offering the general public resources for everything from diagnosis to treatment.

From the physical symptoms to the emotional struggles that come with having lupus, it is a constant battle for patients with lupus, their caregivers and loved ones. We believe the best way to support them is to spread awareness through this collaborative campaign that shares more insights on lupus, and how the public can support the patients and caregivers.

said Dr Heselynn Hussein, President of the Malaysian SLE Association

Dr. Heselynn asserts that PSLEM offers an SLE fund to which patients can apply for assistance. Lupus cannot be cured, but with the right care and support, the condition can be controlled. The available treatments help manage the “butterfly” flares while ensuring minimal organ damage, depending on the type and severity of symptoms.

As part of its ongoing efforts to educate the public about lupus, PSLEM organised the “Walk-a-Payung for Lupus” event in conjunction with the recent World Lupus Day on May 10 with the help of AstraZeneca. The walk with umbrellas serves as a metaphor for the support and safety lupus patients need, as well as the effects lupus has on parents and their support network.

Our aim is to help patients be heard and supported in this silent battle. Living with lupus is challenging as it takes a toll on the body and mind. With the campaign microsite, we invite everyone to learn more about lupus, where a diagnosis can be
challenging as the symptoms are often hidden away.

said Dr Syahrul Sazliyana, UKM Rheumatologist and a representative of the Malaysian Society of Rheumatology

Speaking from the perspective of a lupus patient, 66-year-old Jean Chan indicated that lupus has taught her to be resilient. She has lived with lupus for the past 29 years. The constant support, encouragement, care, and love given to the patient is the most crucial element in helping them overcome their negative feelings about having this debilitating illness.

Many living with lupus face challenges with diagnosis, unpredictable disease flares and limited care options. Globally, lupus places a heavy physical, emotional and financial burden on the 5 million people living with the condition. At AstraZeneca, we are working towards a future where people living with lupus have access to quality care. This goal is being advanced through scientific innovation, stronger collaboration with the lupus community, and an increased focus on health equity.

explained Bernice Chan, Chief Marketing Officer, AstraZeneca

Bernice added that their goal is to collaborate with associations using a partnership-driven strategy to educate the public about this chronic illness, encourage early diagnosis, and encourage treatment seeking. Together, they can work to raise the bar for treatment and ultimately help people with lupus live more fully.

Lupus is a chronic illness that can be managed with effective care and a positive environment. Visit www.unlockinglupusmy.com for more information about lupus.

Malaysian SLE Organisation (PSLEM)
PSLEM is a non-profit charitable organisation. It was set up in 1994 by doctors and patients to support people living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and to also promote public understanding of SLE and related Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD).

Malaysian Society of Rheumatology (MSR)
MSR is a professional society for rheumatologists in Malaysia, that aims to promote the growth of rheumatology as a specialty, improve the state of management of rheumatic diseases, and drive awareness for arthritis awareness among professionals and the public.

AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/Nasdaq: AZN) is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. Please visit astrazeneca.com and follow the Company on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

About SLE
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
SLE is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue in the body.3 It is a chronic and complex disease with a variety of clinical manifestations that can impact many organs and can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, rashes, fatigue, and swelling in joints and fevers.4 Approximately half of all patients with SLE will have some form of organ damage within 10 years of their diagnosis caused by the disease or existing treatments, which exacerbates symptoms and increases the risk of mortality.3,5,6

References
1. American College of Rheumatology. Guidelines for referral and management of systemic lupus erythematosus in adults. Arthritis & Rheumatology. 1999; 42: 1785-1796.
2. Chai, H. K., Phipps, M. E., & Chua, K. H. (2012). Genetic Risk Factors of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in the Malaysian Population: A Minireview. Clinical & Developmental Immunology, 2012, 1. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/963730
3. Bruce IN, et al. Factors associated with damage accrual in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: results from the systemic lupus international collaborating Clinics (SLICC) inception cohort. Ann Rheum Dis. 2015; 74: 1706-1713
4. American College of Rheumatology. Guidelines for referral and management of systemic lupus erythematosus in adults. Arthritis & Rheumatology. 1999; 42: 1785-1796.
5. Segura BT, et al. Damage accrual and mortality over long-term follow-up in 300 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in a multi-ethnic British cohort. Rheumatol. 2020; 59 (3): 524-533.
6. Chambers SA, et al. Damage and mortality in a group of British patients with systemic lupus erythematosus followed up for over 10 years. Rheumatol. 2009; 48: 673-675.