Lifestyle

Astro Welcomes The Year of the Fire Horse 2026 with “All Right! Kudada”, A Fresh Take on Chinese New Year Celebrations

As the Year of the Horse approaches, Astro officially kicks off its 2026 Chinese New Year celebrations with a brand-new campaign titled, “All Right! Kudada” 《万事All Right酷哒哒》 . More than just a festive slogan, this year’s theme reflects a refreshing shift in how Malaysians celebrate Chinese New Year — one that blends tradition, creativity, emotion, and modern storytelling.

In recent years, many people have quietly felt that Chinese New Year doesn’t quite feel the same anymore. As older generations step back from organising celebrations, younger generations often struggle to recreate the warmth and meaning they once grew up with. Familiar rituals remain, but the emotional connection sometimes fades. This is where Astro steps in — not to replace traditions, but to reimagine them in a way that feels relevant, heartfelt, and joyful again.

Meet Kudada, The New Face of Chinese New Year 2026
At the heart of this year’s campaign is Astro’s brand-new mascot, Kudada 酷哒哒. The name blends “cool” with a playful rhythmic sound “da-da”, instantly giving it a fun, modern personality. Designed to represent optimism, confidence, and positivity, Kudada reflects the idea that even after challenging times, we can still move forward with a smile.

Kudada isn’t just cute — it represents a mindset. A reminder that celebration doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes, simply showing up and reconnecting is already enough.

A Musical Journey Across Time
Music remains one of the strongest emotional anchors during festive seasons, and Astro continues that tradition with its 2026 Chinese New Year music project, produced in collaboration with Multimedia and led by renowned producer Ciang Teng 邓智彰.

The project takes audiences on a journey through past, present, and future, beginning with the main theme song,《万事All Right酷哒哒》 (“All Right! Kudada”). Set in a modern-day reunion scene, the song captures warmth, laughter, and the simple joy of being together. The music video follows a symbolic letter travelling through time — a reminder that love and blessings transcend generations.

The second track, 《Alright年》(“Alright Year”), shifts into an ancient setting where artistes appear as heroic warriors. With traditional melodies fused with festive beats, the song feels cinematic and powerful, like a grand New Year legend unfolding on screen.

The journey concludes with《灯笼挂在火箭上》(“Lanterns Hanging on Rockets”), a futuristic piece filled with bold visuals and electronic elements. It represents innovation, imagination, and the courage to move forward together.

A special highlight is the bonus track《三星拱照》 (“Three Stars Shine Bright”), inspired by traditional auspicious symbolism. The song blends modern sounds with meaningful lyrics, encouraging positivity and resilience. Hong Kong actor, Lai Lok-yi 黎诺懿 also makes a special appearance, adding extra excitement to the MV.

More Than Music: Merch, Moments & Meaning
This year, Astro introduces the Kudada USB Chinese New Year Album, featuring all three songs plus exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Over 60 artistes participated in the project, making it one of Astro’s most diverse festive collaborations to date.

Beyond music, Astro is rolling out a full line of Kudada-themed merchandises. Highlights include blind-box collectible figurines featuring six different blessings such as wealth, peace, health, good fortune, and study blessings, with a secret design for collectors. There are also stylish Kudada T-shirts for both adults and kids, perfect for festive gatherings.

For families, the Kudada comic book offers something extra meaningful. It blends storytelling with emotional learning, helping children understand feelings, communication, and self-expression in a fun, approachable way.

Festive Fun Across Malaysia
Starting January 2026, Astro will bring the celebrations nationwide with roadshows, artiste appearances, and festive giveaways. The KUDADA Chinese New Year Special Channel (Channel 100) will run from 9 February to 11 March 2026, featuring curated movies, dramas, and documentaries suitable for the whole family.

Major festive programmes will also return, including the 《Astro万事All Right酷哒哒新春跨年派对》 (“Astro All Right! Kudada New Year Countdown Party”), 《请问师傅》 (“Sifu! May I Ask?”), and《就是爱欢喜拜天公2026》 (“I Love Hua Hee Bai Ti Gong 2026”) — ensuring the festive spirit lasts well beyond the first day of Chinese New Year.

Where to Get Everything?
Kudada merchandise will be available at Popular Bookstores nationwide, online via official platforms, and on Shopee. The comic book can also be purchased through Heli Publishing, Lazada, and Shopee. Astro users can download exclusive Kudada WhatsApp stickers through the My Astro App.

For updates on Astro’s 2026 Chinese New Year campaign, visit kudada2026.com, follow Astro on social media, or tune in via Astro platforms. Subscription plans start from RM49.99 per month, with Astro Fibre 500Mbps available at RM139.99 per month. Sign up for Astro today and enjoy the best of entertainment, all in one place! For more information, log in to the My Astro app, visit astro.com.my or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838.

Lifestyle, Music

Danson Crowned the Winner of Astro Star Quest 2025 Grand Finale

Held in Kuala Lumpur on 13 December 2025, the grand finale of Astro Start Quest 2025《新秀 崛起吧!》 marked the end of a months-long musical journey that brought together some of Malaysia’s most promising young vocal talents. After multiple competitive rounds and plenty of standout performances, Danson 黄得昇 emerged as the night’s biggest winner — taking home both the Championship title and the “U Mobile Star Pick Award”. A true double win.

A Night That Tested More Than Just Vocals
The finale was structured around three competitive segments, each designed to test different aspects of an artist.

The first round, “My BGM,” allowed contestants to freely choose songs that best represented their musical identity. It was a round about personal style — and also where three contestants were eliminated, leaving only the top five.

Next came “My Concert,” arguably one of the most demanding segments of the night. Contestants had just eight minutes to build their own mini concert, showcasing not only vocal strength but also storytelling, pacing, and stage control. Only three contestants advanced.

The final round, “My Generation,” focused on recent popular songs, challenging contestants to deliver music that resonated with today’s audience. It was here that Danson sealed his win with a powerful performance of “Beautiful Things.” His delivery was controlled, emotional, and layered — a performance that felt confident without trying too hard.

A Well-Deserved Win
Judges were unanimous in their praise. Mani Fok 霍汶希 highlighted Danson’s distinctive voice and noted his strong suitability for Cantonese songs and future development in Hong Kong. Other judges echoed similar sentiments, describing his finale performance as nearly flawless — from song choice to emotional honesty.

Beyond the trophy, Danson also won the “U Mobile Star Pick Award”, bringing his total prize money to RM40,000.

In his post-win remarks, Danson shared a heartfelt message, thanking Astro for giving Gen Z artists a platform to shine. He also revealed plans to use part of his winnings to release an original single — one that will document his personal growth throughout the competition.

A Star-Studded Finale
The finale itself was hosted by Hui Mei 萧慧敏 alongside Priscilla Abby 蔡恩雨, with Pei Yong joining as #TheCatalyst (崛起推手) mentor host. The judging panel featured industry heavyweights including Mani Fok 霍汶希, Jess Lee 李佳薇, Al Kuan 管启源, Nicole 赖淞凤, and Geraldine 颜慧萍.

Performance segments added extra shine to the night, with Nicholas Teo 张栋梁delivering an emotional rendition of “Dusk”《黄昏》, Jess Lee performing “Follow My Heart”《追心者》and “Suffering”《煎熬》 and Hong Kong singer Jay Fung 冯允谦 closing with “Ghibli”《吉卜力》.

Astro Star Quest 2025 didn’t just crown a winner — it spotlighted a new wave of Malaysian talent ready for bigger stages. Danson’s win felt earned, not rushed, and more importantly, it felt like the beginning of something rather than the end. For Danson, now the real journey begins.

Lifestyle, Music

Top 8 of Astro Star Quest 2025 Compete to be The Next Superstar in Grand Finale

The Grand Finale of Malaysia’s most prestigious TV talent show, Astro Star Quest 2025 《新秀 崛起吧!》, will be held on 13 December 2025 (Saturday) at 8:30 PM at Mega Star Arena, Kuala Lumpur — marking the climax of this year’s competition.

After battling through multiple intense rounds and high-pressure challenges, new talents from across the country have successfully earned their spots on the final stage. The Top 8 finalists are: Leow Yee Xing 刘伊幸 (24), Pang Ee Jun 彭义竣 (18), Yong Hui Ying 杨荟颖 (21), Yap Xiao En 叶晓恩 (19), Danson 黄得昇 (25), EMI 萧洳晶 (21), Euzen 林妤真 (18), and Celine 陈芷萱 (24). These eight powerhouse newcomers will give it their all on finale night as they fight for the honor of becoming “the next superstar.”

The show is presented by U Mobile as the official telco and Adonis as the partner. The Grand Finale will be hosted by Hui Mei 萧慧敏 and Priscilla Abby 蔡恩雨, and #TheCatalyst (崛起推手) Pei Yong. The judging panel features Mani 霍汶希 Chief Executive Officer of Emperor Culture (Beijing) Development Co., Ltd. and Chief Operating Officer of Emperor Entertainment Group (Hong Kong), along with Jess Lee 李佳薇, Al Kuan 管启源, Nicole 赖淞凤, and Geraldine 颜慧萍 — all bringing professional and sharp evaluations to the stage.

Besides the tense competition, Mentor #TheNavigator (领航人) Nicholas Teo 张栋梁 will perform, with additional special performances by Jess Lee 李佳薇 and Hong Kong vocalist Jay Fung 冯允谦, bringing even more star power to the night.

This year’s champion will walk away with RM30,000 and a trophy. The “U Mobile Star Pick Award” online voting is also open until 10 PM on 13 December 2025 (Saturday), where the winner will receive a trophy and RM10,000.

Want to witness the rise of a new star live? Astro users can redeem through the My Astro App for a chance to win four Grand Finale tickets and experience the electrifying atmosphere in person. The finale will officially kick off at 8:30 PM on 13 December 2025 (Saturday). For those who can’t be there, the show will be broadcast live on Astro AEC (Channel 306), Astro GO, On Demand, and sooka — so viewers across Malaysia can celebrate the birth of a brand-new superstar together.

Subscribe to Astro One today for just RM49.99/month to enjoy on-demand, unlimited entertainment. You can also upgrade your streaming experience to Astro Fibre with 500Mbps high-speed unlimited internet and Entertainment Pack for only RM139.99/month. Learn more through the My Astro App, visit astro.com.my, or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838.

Lifestyle, Music

Don’t Miss Malaysia’s Biggest Talent Show, Astro Star Quest 2025 Grand Finale

Mani Fok and Jess Lee join the judging panel, while Nicholas Teo and Jay Fung add star power to the grand finale.

Malaysia’s most prestigious TV talent competition, Astro Star Quest 2025 Astro《新秀 崛起吧!》 (Astro Star Quest 2025), will hold its Grand Finale next Saturday (13 December 2025) at 8:30 PM at Mega Star Arena Kuala Lumpur, marking a dazzling conclusion to this months-long musical battle.

Astro Star Quest is presented by U Mobile as the official telco and Adonis as the partnering brand. The finale will be co-hosted by Hui Mei 萧慧敏 and Priscilla Abby 蔡恩雨, with #TheCatalyst (崛起推手) Pei Yong joining the hosting team to inject even more energy and interaction into the event.

As for the judging lineup, in addition to the three resident judges — renowned music producer Al Kuan 管启源, 2012 Astro Talent Quest champion Nicole 赖淞凤, and 2011 champion Geraldine 颜慧萍 — the finale will feature two heavyweight guest judges: Mani 霍汶希 Chief Executive Officer of Emperor Culture (Beijing) Development Co., Ltd. and Chief Operating Officer of Emperor Entertainment Group (Hong Kong) and “Iron Lung Queen” Jess Lee 李佳薇, known for her powerful vocal. Their professional input will bring an even higher standard to the evaluation process.

Besides serving as the program’s mentor, Nicholas Teo 张栋梁 will also take the stage for a special performance. Jess Lee 李佳薇 and Hong Kong powerhouse vocalist Jay Fung 冯允谦 will likewise deliver stunning performances, ensuring a star-studded night and an unforgettable musical feast for contestants and audiences alike.

Which eight outstanding contestants will make it to the final stage? The answer will be revealed this Saturday (December 6) on Astro Star Quest 2025 Astro《新秀 崛起吧!》. You can watch the live broadcast simultaneously on Astro AEC (Channel 306), Astro GO, On Demand, and sooka, and witness the birth of the next Malaysian superstar!

Subscribe to Astro One today for just RM49.99/month to enjoy on-demand, unlimited entertainment. You can also upgrade your streaming experience to Astro Fibre with 500Mbps high-speed unlimited internet and Entertainment Pack for only RM139.99/month. Learn more through the My Astro App, visit astro.com.my, or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838.

Lifestyle

Diana Danielle and Joe Flizzow Honoured at ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Carnival 2025 for Bridging Creativity and Entrepreneurship

Two of Malaysia’s most influential cultural icons — Diana Danielle and Joe Flizzow — took centre stage at the 10th ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Carnival 2025, where they were honoured for their remarkable contributions that bridge creativity, business, and community impact in Kuala Lumpur.

Diana Danielle received the Outstanding Content Creator and Performing Artist Award, while Joe Flizzow was recognised as the Outstanding Hip Hop Entrepreneur, celebrating their success in blending artistic passion with entrepreneurial excellence — and inspiring a generation of creative professionals across ASEAN.

Graced by His Highness Tengku Arif Bendahara of Pahang and Her Highness Tengku Natasya, the glittering ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony at MATRADE Kuala Lumpur marked a decade of the region’s most dynamic platform for youth-led innovation and creative enterprise. The event was officiated by YB Adam Adli, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, and attended by dignitaries, entrepreneurs, and youth leaders from across Southeast Asia.

What began ten years ago as a modest platform for youth innovation has grown into one of ASEAN’s most anticipated entrepreneurial gatherings — a celebration of creativity, culture, and business leadership under the theme “Connecting ASEAN, Creating Global Change.”

A beloved actress and digital storyteller, Diana Danielle was recognised for her evolution from screen star to multi-platform creative entrepreneur. Her commitment to producing authentic, meaningful content has inspired millions and brought attention to social and mental health issues close to her heart — showcasing the rising influence of Malaysia’s creative industry.

Meanwhile, Joe Flizzow — hip hop legend, mentor, and entrepreneur — was celebrated for his visionary role in shaping Malaysia’s urban music scene and elevating it onto the regional stage. Through Kartel Records, mentorship programmes, and cross-border collaborations, Joe continues to drive Southeast Asia’s creative economy forward, proving that music and entrepreneurship can go hand in hand.

“Diana and Joe embody the spirit of ASEAN’s next generation — fearless, creative, and globally minded,” said Deborah Melissa Bottreau, Chairperson of AYEC 2025 and Founding Chairwoman of the ASEAN Young Women Entrepreneurs Club (AYWEC). “They prove that culture and commerce can work together to inspire real regional change.”

Supported by Malaysia’s Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), MITI, ASEAN-BAC, MATRADE, MIDA, and the ASEAN Secretariat, this milestone edition marks a decade of AYEC’s evolution — from a startup initiative in 2015 to a powerful regional movement driving youth innovation, sustainability, and creative entrepreneurship.

As the night celebrated both business excellence and artistic innovation, one message resonated throughout the hall — the future of ASEAN lies not only in technology and trade, but in the power of storytelling, creativity, and culture.

About ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Council
The ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Council (AYEC) is the official voice of young entrepreneurs within ASEAN’s policy-making framework. Established in 2015 and launched in Kuala Lumpur, AYEC unites government-endorsed young entrepreneur associations from all ten ASEAN Member States, connecting them with the ASEAN Secretariat and ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) to advance innovation and regional economic integration. It also oversees flagship initiatives such as the ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Carnival and the ASEAN Young Women Entrepreneurs Club (AYWEC), fostering cross-border collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainable growth across ASEAN’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. For more info, visit AYEC website at ayec.org or their official pages on Facebook and Instagram (@aseanyec).