The spirit of solidarity was palpable on 25 May 2025 (Sunday) morning as more than 500 participants gathered at Laman Astaka, Taman Tasik Titiwangsa for Walk-A-Payung 2025, a symbolic 3KM walkathon organised by Persatuan SLE Malaysia (PSLEM), in partnership with Faculty of Medicine & HCTM, UKM in conjunction with World Lupus Day.
Walking under umbrellas – a visual metaphor for protection against sun exposure, a major concern for lupus patients – participants showed their support for Malaysians living with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
Since its debut in 2007, Walk-A-Payung has become a flagship awareness event for PSLEM, reflecting its long-standing commitment to empowering lupus warriors and advocating for their needs.It is estimated that 43 out of 100,000 autoimmune cases are affected by SLE.
“Lupus has no cure and can cause debilitating symptoms such as joint pain, organ damage, and extreme fatigue,” said Prof. Dr. Syahrul. “These challenges often affect not just health, but also job security, financial stability, and mental wellbeing. Walk-A-Payung is one way we can create public awareness and foster a sense of community for those impacted by this disease.”
The event was officiated by Dato’ Dr Norsiah Binti Ali, Pengarah, Gred Jusa B (M), Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia, and Prof. Dr. Syahrul Sazliyana Binti Shaharir, President of PSLEM and Consultant Rheumatologist at HCTM UKM. The morning began with an energising group Zumba session led by the Royal Fitness Squad from Universiti Malaya, followed by a ceremonial flag-off that marked the start of the 3KM walk.
The key highlight of the event was the official launch of iLawan Lupus: A Patient Dialogue Book on SLE, developed by AstraZeneca. The book captures real patient voices and narratives, offering a vital platform for advocacy, empathy, and greater understanding of the lupus journey. This initiative serves as a vital resource to bridge communication gaps between patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.
Throughout the morning, attendees enjoyed a range of activities, including family-friendly entertainment, lucky draws, creative contests, and meet-and-greets with the 501st Legion Malaysia Garrison.
I attended the launch event of the brand-new HUAWEI WATCH 5 today, and I have to say — I walked away really impressed. As someone who’s been keeping an eye on smartwatch trends, I can confidently say that Huawei is stepping up in a big way with this latest release. And today, I’m sharing my personal experience and a deeper look at why this could be your next wrist companion.
Not Just Another Smartwatch The moment I saw the display models at the event, I was like… okay, this isn’t just another smartwatch. The HUAWEI WATCH 5 feels futuristic, classy, and a little bit space-inspired — which makes sense because the design takes inspiration from the Kármán Line, the boundary between Earth and space.
It comes in two sizes:
42mm in a beautiful new Sand Gold and Beige,
46mm in a bold Purple that definitely makes a statement.
Huawei didn’t just stop at colour. The build materials are on another level — think 904L stainless steel (super durable and corrosion-resistant) for the 42mm, and aerospace-grade silver for the 46mm, which is lighter but even tougher. Both models are topped with sapphire glass, which gives that high-end look while being scratch-resistant too.
Strap-wise, you’re spoiled for choice. There’s a titanium strap for a luxury feel, fluoroelastomer for sporty comfort, and a cool new composite strap that looks like leather but is waterproof and odour-free — great for active lifestyles. The straps even come in textured styles like denim beige and silky purple to suit your fashion vibe. Honestly, it’s rare to find this level of design attention in a wearable.
The Star of the Show – X-TAP Technology Now let’s get to the feature that really stood out — Huawei’s brand-new X-TAP Technology. This is a big leap in health tracking. Instead of relying only on wrist-based sensors, the HUAWEI WATCH 5 can read your health data from your fingertip — and it’s shockingly fast and precise.
Just by holding the sensor for 3 seconds, you get a Health Glance – a mini health report showing 10 key metrics like heart rate variability (HRV), emotional wellbeing, blood oxygen (SpO2), and more. The fingertip sensor is able to get more accurate readings thanks to the thinner skin and richer blood vessels in your fingers — and yes, it gives results in under a minute.
I even tested the fingertip SpO2 function during the demo, and it took less than 10 seconds. This could be a huge plus for anyone who wants fast, reliable health checks on the go — athletes, seniors, or even just people who like keeping track of their wellness.
Smart Gestures for Everyday Convenience Another feature I liked was the gesture controls. We’ve all had those moments where your hands are messy or busy — and trying to swipe on a tiny watch screen isn’t fun.
With the WATCH 5, you can simply double tap or slide your fingers to answer calls, control music, or even snap photos remotely using your phone’s camera. It works with selected third-party apps too, like some social voice call platforms. This little detail really adds convenience, especially for users who are always on the move.
Stay Connected – Even Without Your Phone If you’re someone who likes to leave your phone behind occasionally — maybe for a jog, a quick errand, or a minimalist day out — you’ll appreciate the eSIM support on the WATCH 5. This means the watch can make and receive calls, send messages, and stay connected on its own.
There’s also a dual-mode battery system, which lets you switch between Standard Mode and Battery Saver Mode depending on your needs.
🔋 In Standard Mode
46mm lasts up to 4.5 days, 42mm up to 3 days.
🕒 In Battery Saver Mode
Up to 11 days for 46mm, Up to 7 days for 42mm.
That’s pretty impressive, especially when you consider how much tech is packed inside this sleek little device.
Pre-Order Perks If you’re thinking of grabbing one, pre-orders are now open, starting at RM1,799. And here’s the cherry on top, when you place a RM50 deposit: ✅ RM70 rebate ✅ Free FreeBuds 5 ✅ 3-month Health+ access ✅ Extra gifts worth up to RM746
You can place your pre-order through Huawei Experience Stores, their official website, or their online shops on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok.
Whether you’re into fitness, productivity, or just appreciate good tech with style, the HUAWEI WATCH 5 is definitely worth checking out. Personally, I love how Huawei has combined sleek design, health innovation, and everyday practicality into one powerful device.
About HUAWEI Consumer Business Group (CBG) Malaysia Huawei’s products and services are available in more than 170 countries and are used by a third of the world’s population. Fourteen R&D centres have been set up in countries around the world, including Germany, Sweden, Russia, India, and China. Huawei Device BG is one of Huawei’s three business units and covers smartphones, PCs and tablets, wearables and cloud services, etc. Huawei’s global network is built on over 30 years of expertise in the telecom industry and is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the world.
Samsung’s latest AI TV lineup is coming soon, and you can be among the first to bring the future of home entertainment into your living room. From 28 April to 12 May 2025, Samsung is offering a sweet deal: pre-register your interest and unlock a free Galaxy Watch7 worth RM1,199 when you pre-order the 2025 Samsung AI TV!
Here’s how it works. Simply fill out the online form during the registration period, and Samsung will send you a unique voucher code via email. This voucher lets you claim a Galaxy Watch7 (Bluetooth, 40mm) when you pre-order your Samsung AI TV between 13 May and 1 June 2025. Redemption is valid until 15 July 2025, giving you plenty of time to secure your reward.
Why is this a game-changer? The Galaxy Watch7 isn’t just a fitness tracker — it actually enhances your Samsung AI TV experience with its cool Universal Gesture feature. That means you can control your TV without lifting a remote! Whether you’re chilling on the sofa or busy in the kitchen, simple hand gestures keep you in full control.
Want to Lock in Your TV Early? Here’s How. You can also secure your 2025 Samsung AI TV with the Samsung Reservation+ (SR+) program. Between 28 April and 12 May 2025, buy an SR+ e-voucher for just RM100 and receive a voucher worth up to RM800. This voucher can be used during the pre-order period (13 May to 1 June 2025) for selected products.
Worried you might change your mind? No stress. If you don’t use your SR+ voucher during the pre-order, your RM100 can still be used between 2 and 30 June 2025 toward any Samsung TV or soundbar at the Samsung Online Store.
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.
Congratulations to Jack Lim, Malaysia’s No. 1 Chinese-language radio station MY FM’s morning show DJ, who has been with the station for a continuous 23 years. He has set a national record and was officially recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records as the “Longest-Serving Chinese Radio Host in Malaysia.”
A special ceremony was held at 10 AM today in MY FM’s live studio to celebrate Jack Lim’s achievement. Director of Astro Audio Priya Dharshini Prabakaran and MY FM Station Manager Chew Wei Boon accompanied Malaysia Book of Records CEO Christopher HW Wong and official representative Siti Hajar Binti Johor to present the certificate, honoring his outstanding contribution to the local Chinese broadcasting and entertainment scene.
MY FM Station Manager Chew Wei Boon said,
Jack Lim has always been a source of pride for Astro Audio and MY FM. Over the past 23 years, from our school days to our professional careers, his energetic voice has been there to kick-start our mornings. He’s like a big brother in the MY FM family – his relentless drive and passion for radio have not only built MY FM’s success but have always been an inspiration to us all.
Beyond hosting, Jack Lim has also taken part in producing numerous major MY FM events, such as the annual station celebration MY FM Big Show, showcasing his all-rounded talent in both broadcasting and entertainment.
Upon receiving the certificate, Jack shared that he joined MY FM in 2002, debuting as the host of the morning show “Sunshine Morning” 阳光灿烂.
I never imagined I’d still be here 23 years later. To be recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records marks a meaningful milestone in my journey with MY FM.
Chew Wei Boon added,
Together with Jack Lim, we’ve made unprecedented history in local radio. MY FM has held the top spot among Chinese-language stations for 26 consecutive years, and our morning show continues to be the most popular Chinese morning program. We promise to keep the spirit of ‘More Fun Together’ alive, bringing more surprises and engaging experiences to fans through radio and social media.
Astro’s BIZone — a simplified TV package tailored for food and beverage (F&B) outlets — has announced a major initiative to boost the growth of small and medium-sized F&B businesses. The campaign, worth RM3 million, aims to help F&B and commercial outlets grow their customer base and revenue through targeted marketing and promotional support.
Since its introduction in 2024, BIZone has recorded impressive momentum, with a 34% year-on-year growth in new customers — far exceeding the general market growth rate of 5%. With a target market of 14,000 establishments, BIZone continues to gain ground as a valuable solution for F&B and commercial outlets across Malaysia.
Tan Sian Tuang, Head of Enterprise and Broadband Business at Astro, shared, “BIZone has quickly become one of Astro’s most impactful commercial offerings, already benefiting thousands of F&B outlets nationwide. However, we understand the challenges these outlets face in reaching their audience and expanding their businesses. That’s why we’ve developed this marketing campaign to equip them with the tools needed to boost visibility, attract customers, and drive growth.”
He further explained, “What makes this RM3 million support initiative unique is its integration of Astro’s content and marketing platforms — creating an unmatched opportunity for our F&B partners to gain exposure. From national TV features to influencer-driven promotions and celebrity appearances, BIZone is putting powerful marketing resources within reach of SMEs. This campaign supports Astro’s vision of becoming the top Content & Connectivity Partner for the F&B sector by offering more than entertainment — we’re enabling real business results.”
BIZone Rewards: RM3 Million to Boost Your Business Astro is kicking off 2025 with the launch of its BIZone Rewards campaign — a high-impact initiative designed to increase foot traffic, visibility, and brand value for participating outlets. Open to all F&B and commercial establishments that sign up for, renew, or upgrade their BIZone TV pack between 7 April and 17 October 2025, the campaign offers a valuable opportunity to gain strategic marketing support.
Throughout the campaign, 200 outlets will be selected via monthly draws conducted by Astro representatives to share RM3 million worth of promotional support.
Selected outlets may receive:
Sports Watch Party: A fully-sponsored live sports screening at their venue to draw large crowds and create event-like experiences.
Meet & Greet: An in-person appearance by a celebrity or influencer to generate hype and enhance customer engagement.
Food Review: Special content created by popular food reviewers or social media influencers to showcase the outlet to a wider foodie audience.
Astro Radio Ads: Feature spots on Astro’s popular radio stations, reaching millions across multiple demographics.
TV Features: Appearances on national shows like Buletin Awani or Borak SeeNi, giving outlets national exposure via Astro’s extensive viewership.
Small Change, Big Impact More than just exposure, this rewards campaign offers the kind of marketing that attracts new customers, boosts loyalty, and drives tangible business growth. With RM3 million in dedicated support and just a simple shift required, BIZone empowers commercial outlets to unlock their potential through entertainment-driven marketing.
“Through this campaign, we want F&B operators to experience the true impact of strategic marketing. BIZone isn’t just about providing entertainment — it’s a business growth engine that brings in customers, boosts brand value, and drives engagement. By offering this support, we aim to help local businesses thrive and contribute to Malaysia’s economic growth,” added Sian Tuang.
BIZone offers a comprehensive mix of live sports and entertainment content, including major events like the Premier League, BWF Tournaments, Liga Malaysia, Sepak Takraw League, Formula 1, MotoGP, NBA, Cricket, and Tennis, along with access to 25 non-sports channels. Its pricing is transparent and tailored to suit different business types and seating capacities.
New BIZone subscribers will also receive an onboarding kit filled with marketing and branding tools to help elevate their outlet’s ambiance and customer experience.
dixonthum 