Category: Lifestyle

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Astro Classic Golden Melody Singing Competition 2025: Auditions and Mini Concerts Kicking Off Nationwide

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Malaysia’s longest-running and highest-rated singing competition, “Astro Classic Golden Melody Singing Competition 2025″《Astro经典名曲歌唱大赛2025》, proudly celebrates its 25th anniversary, continuing its mission as a “dream-fulfilling stage” by offering a platform for Malaysians who love to sing. This year, the competition is fully upgraded with a newly introduced “Training Camp” and team-based mentorship led by team captains, promising an exciting new chapter in classic music fever!

Since its inception, Astro Classic Golden Melody Singing Competition has maintained its dominance in viewership during its time slot on Astro Chinese channels. In 2024, it achieved an impressive 20% increase in ratings, proving its popularity with audiences. The 2025 competition will be even grander, expanding into communities with nationwide auditions across the northern, southern, and central regions of Malaysia—including George Town in Penang, Batu Pahat in Johor, and Kuala Lumpur—with a total of four open audition sessions to discover more talented vocalists.

Anyone aged 35 and above (born in 1990 or earlier), who is fluent in Mandarin and holds Malaysian citizenship, is welcome to participate in the on-site auditions. Participants must dress appropriately and bring along their backing music (in CD or USB format), original IC, and a recent full-body 4R-sized photo.

They should also prepare a brief self-introduction and at least one classic Mandarin song from 2005 or earlier. The audition is open format—participants may choose to sing a cappella, with music accompaniment, dancing while singing, or playing an instrument. They are encouraged to select the song segment that best showcases their vocal ability. Only those who successfully advance will be notified by the organizer via SMS or phone call.

To promote the competition, Astro Classic Golden Melody Singing Competition 2025 will also host a series of mini concerts featuring a stellar lineup of artists: Jazz Bai Lin 白琳, Grace Lee 李玉钦, Wu Wei Lin 吴玮琳, Tedd Chan 曾国辉, JJ Zheng 郑综宪, Chris 张淑凤, JY 吴建亿, Ricky Lim 林永发, Lu Yan Ping 陆燕萍, Tan Wei Wen 覃微雯, Cassy糖糖, Emily Shuyu 潘淑瑜, Zax Lee 李政发, Angela Ong 吴沁尹, and Zhou Xian Hui 周显慧.

Visit the official Facebook page of The Golden Club: @TGCTheGoldenClub, join radio station MELODY’s ticket giveaways, or claim tickets via the My Astro App (for Astro users).

Mini Concert and Audition Details:

Date & TimeEventVenue
April 26 (Saturday), 8:30pm–10:00pmMini ConcertLoft 29, Penang
April 27 (Sunday), 8:00am–4:00pmAuditionLoft 29, Penang
May 3 (Saturday), 8:30pm–10:00pmMini ConcertHazel, Batu Pahat
May 4 (Sunday), 8:00am–4:00pmAuditionHazel, Batu Pahat
May 9 (Friday),
8:30pm–10:00pm		Mini ConcertThe Clef, Kuala Lumpur
May 10 (Saturday), 8:00am–3:00pmAuditionThe Clef, Kuala Lumpur
May 11 (Sunday), 8:00am–4:00pmAuditionThe Clef, Kuala Lumpur

For more details and competition terms, visit The Golden Club’s official Facebook page: @TGCTheGoldenClub, Instagram: @tgc_thegoldenclub, or contact the official hotline at 017-868 7817 (WhatsApp only).

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

‘Double Treats, Double Fortune’: ELBA’s Lucky Winner Drives Home BYD Seal Electric Car

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Congratulations to all winners of ELBA Malaysia’s ‘Double Treats, Double Fortune’ Campaign

I had the pleasure of attending ELBA Malaysia’s exciting prize-giving ceremony, which marked the grand finale of their much-anticipated ‘Double Treats, Double Fortune’ Campaign — and let me tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular. Held at BYD Ara Damansara, the atmosphere was filled with celebration, cheer, and unforgettable moments as winners walked away with amazing rewards.

The star of the day? Without a doubt, Mr. Tang Chee Hing from Subang Jaya, who drove home a sleek BYD Seal Premium 2024 Electric Car worth a whopping RM180,000! Now that’s what I call a festive treat.

A Campaign That Truly Gave Back
From energy-efficient refrigerators to multi-functional cooking appliances, ELBA continues to improve our daily lives in the kitchen and beyond. It’s no surprise that loyal customers like Mr. Tang have been long-time believers in the brand — more than 50% of his home appliances are ELBA!

Congratulations to Mr. Tang Chee Hing (third from left) for winning a new BYD Seal Premium 2024 Electric Car worth RM180,000

Celebrating the Lucky Winners
Besides the grand prize, several other lucky winners were rewarded too. Here’s the full list of the lucky winners:

  • Grand Prize: BYD Seal Premium 2024 Electric Car worth RM180,000 – Tang Chee Hing
  • First Prize: ELBA PerfectFit Refrigerator (RM8,999) – Khor Eng Tong
  • Second Prize: ELBA Side-by-Side Refrigerator (RM5,289) – Ng Siao Chi
  • Third Prize: ELBA 2-in-1 Washer Dryer (RM3,859) – Zaiton Abu Bakar

Over 100 winners were also delighted with Special and Consolation prizes, including ELBA combi smart ovens, multi-cookers, water dispensers, steam generator irons, and even hair dryers — perfect for enhancing any home.

Real Joy, Real Stories
Mr. Tang shared his joy with us during the event. “Winning a BYD Seal Electric Car is an incredible surprise that made this festive season even more special. ELBA has truly created an unforgettable moment for me and my family. This will be a huge financial relief in terms of savings. Charging the BYD Seal costs just a fraction of petrol prices, and with its low maintenance, I’ll be saving thousands annually,” he said with a beaming smile.

Another winner, Mr. Khor from Kedah, couldn’t believe his luck: “I am very happy and excited! I never expected to win, especially with my very first ELBA purchase. This is such a rewarding experience, and I’m grateful to ELBA for making it even more special.”

ELBA’s Managing Director, Mr. Tok Sang Man

Looking Forward with ELBA
The event wasn’t just about prizes. Attendees had the chance to explore ELBA’s latest range of smart home appliances and test drive BYD vehicles on-site. It was a well-rounded experience combining technology, lifestyle, and appreciation for loyal customers.

ELBA’s Managing Director, Mr. Tok Sang Man, expressed gratitude to customers for their unwavering support and promised more exciting campaigns ahead. “This campaign was not just about winning prizes — it was about creating meaningful moments for our customers. We deeply appreciate their continued support and look forward to bringing even more exciting innovations and rewarding campaigns in the future.”

As someone who witnessed the heartfelt joy and smiles at the event, I can confidently say ELBA didn’t just give away prizes — they gave their customers memories to cherish.

If you’d like to know more or be part of ELBA’s future rewards and campaigns, keep an eye on https://elba.com.my and follow their social channels.

I’m glad to witness this event in BYD Ara Damansara

About ELBA
Established in 1979, ELBA has become a leading and trusted provider of home and electrical appliances in Malaysia. Distributed by Fiamma Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Fiamma Holdings Berhad (FIAMMA, (6939)), ELBA offers a wide range of high-quality products, from cooking appliances like cooker hoods and built-in ovens to home essentials like refrigerators, air-conditioners, and washing machines.

Known for innovation and reliability, ELBA caters to modern household needs with stylish and functional solutions, ensuring homes are always ready for life’s moments.

Lifestyle, My Personal

Blind Boxes: Fun Collectibles or a Modern-Day Addiction?

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Blind boxes have taken the world by storm, with stores like Pop Mart, Top Toy, and others dominating the collectible market. Popular characters such as Labubu, Crybaby, Sanrio Hello Kitty & Kuromi, and Disney’s Princesses, these mystery boxes create excitement with every unboxing. But are they just a fun hobby, or is society falling into a psychological trap?

How Blind Boxes Work
Before we proceed further, let’s talk about how blind boxes work. Blind boxes operate on a mystery-based purchase model, where buyers receive a sealed package without knowing the exact item inside. Each series consists of a set number of figures, often including common, rare, and ultra-rare editions. Collectors may buy multiple boxes to try and complete a full set, but since items are randomized, they often end up with duplicates—leading to either more purchases or trading with other collectors.

The Thrill Behind Blind Boxes
Blind boxes work on a simple yet powerful concept: you don’t know what you’re getting until you open the package. This element of surprise taps into human psychology, triggering a dopamine rush similar to gambling. The idea of chasing rare figures makes the experience even more thrilling, pushing people to buy more in hopes of completing their collection.

How Blind Boxes Affect Children

  1. Instant Gratification & Dopamine Dependency – Kids experience a rush of happiness when opening a blind box, reinforcing a need for constant surprises.
  2. Emotional Regulation Issues – Not getting the desired figure can lead to frustration, tantrums, or disappointment.
  3. Unrealistic Spending Habits – Many children don’t understand the value of money and may repeatedly ask parents to buy more.
  4. Peer Pressure & Social Influence – Seeing friends or influencers collect popular characters like Labubu or Crybaby can make kids feel left out, pushing them to want more.

The Impact on Adults

  1. Dopamine Addiction & Financial Strain – Many adults justify excessive spending as a “hobby” but end up buying blind boxes compulsively.
  2. Gambling-Like Behaviour – The random reward system encourages repeated purchases, much like slot machines.
  3. Stress & Anxiety – The fear of missing out (FOMO) and frustration of not getting rare items can cause anxiety.
  4. Social Media Pressure – Unboxing videos from influencers fuel consumerism, making collectors feel the need to show off their purchases.

When Does It Become A Problem?
While collecting blind boxes is not inherently bad, it becomes a problem when:

  • You spend beyond your budget, chasing a rare Labubu or Crybaby figure.
  • You experience stress or anxiety over missing out.
  • You buy more out of frustration instead of enjoyment.

Finding A Healthy Balance
To enjoy blind boxes without falling into an unhealthy cycle:
✔ Set a budget – Decide how much you’re willing to spend each month.
✔ Trade or resell duplicates – Platforms and communities allow swapping figures instead of overspending.
✔ Enjoy the experience, not just the outcome – Appreciate the thrill of collecting rather than just the rarest pieces.
✔ Educate children on money management – Help kids understand that blind boxes are a luxury, not a necessity.

Conclusion
So do you think this hobby is harmless fun or dangerous obsession? Blind boxes offer excitement and joy, but when unchecked, they can lead to financial stress, addiction, and anxiety. Whether you love Labubu, Crybaby, Sanrio characters, or Disney’s princesses collectibles, it’s essential to enjoy the hobby responsibly. Set limits, trade wisely, and remember—collecting should bring happiness, not stress!

Do you love blind boxes and which character is your favourite? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Ne Zha Finally Arrives in Malaysia! Here’s How to Watch It on Astro

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Get ready, Malaysia! The Chinese animated sensation, Ne Zha is finally coming to our screens! Ne Zha, the first installment, is a fantasy adventure which took the world by storm in 2019, and now, Malaysian viewers can experience the magic. Mark your calendars for 15 March 2025 (Saturday) at 8:30 PM because Ne Zha will be airing on Astro AEC (Channel 306). You can also stream it via Astro GO, On Demand, or sooka.

Ne Zha: A Record-Breaking Animated Masterpiece
Based on the classic Ming Dynasty novel Investiture of the Gods, Ne Zha reimagines the legendary myth of Ne Zha and Ao Bing, the son of the Dragon King. Born under a dark prophecy, Ne Zha is wrongly believed to be a demonic force destined for destruction. But instead of accepting his fate, he fights against destiny in an action-packed journey of courage and self-discovery.

This animated blockbuster shattered box office records, becoming one of China’s highest-grossing films of all time. It was also China’s official entry for the 92nd Academy Awards (Best International Feature Film)—a groundbreaking achievement for Chinese animation!

Stay Tuned for Ne Zha
You won’t want to miss this! Tune in on March 15 (Saturday) at 8:30 PM via:
✔ Astro AEC (Channel 306)
✔ Astro GO
✔ On Demand
✔ sooka

Upgrade Your Entertainment Experience with Astro
Make your streaming effortless with the Astro One package for just RM49.99/month. For an even better experience, upgrade to Astro Fibre 500Mbps + Entertainment package at RM139.99/month and enjoy ultra-fast internet with unlimited entertainment! Visit the My Astro App, astro.com.my, or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838 to learn more.

I can’t wait to relive the epic battles and emotional moments of Ne Zha! Will you be watching? Let me know in the comments! 🔥

Lifestyle

Huawei Mate XT: World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone Launches at Pavilion KL

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Huawei is once again pushing the boundaries of smartphone innovation with the launch of its groundbreaking tri-fold smartphone, the HUAWEI Mate XT. Following this major release, Huawei is inviting tech enthusiasts to experience its latest foldable technology firsthand at the brand’s largest Innovative Foldable Pop-up Store at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Running from 19 to 25 February 2025, the ‘Unfold the Classic’ exhibition showcases the seamless blend of advanced engineering, durability, and luxury craftsmanship in Huawei’s latest flagship lineup.

A Glimpse into the World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone: HUAWEI Mate XT
Leading the showcase is the HUAWEI Mate XT, the world’s first commercially available tri-fold smartphone. This revolutionary device takes foldable technology to new heights with its ability to fold both inward and outward, thanks to Huawei’s cutting-edge Multi-Directional Flexible Material and the Advanced Precision Hinge System. These innovations ensure a slim, lightweight body without compromising durability, making the Mate XT a true game-changer in the industry.

The Power of Dual-Fold Technology: HUAWEI Mate X6
Alongside the Mate XT, visitors can also explore the HUAWEI Mate X6, which takes durability and functionality to the next level. Designed for everyday resilience, it features second-generation Kunlun Glass, a reinforced hinge system, and an Aviation-Grade Aluminum middle frame to withstand repeated folding and unfolding. A highlight of the exhibition includes a live demonstration where the Mate X6’s inner screen lifts a 150kg sports bike, proving its strength and endurance.

Luxury and Productivity Beyond Smartphones
Beyond foldables, Huawei is showcasing its premium wearable and tablet innovations. The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2 is designed for high-performance productivity, featuring a flagship-level PC experience, Huawei’s NearLink keyboard, and an anti-glare OLED PaperMatte display for optimal eye comfort. Meanwhile, the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate stands out with its sleek design and advanced tracking features, perfect for sports enthusiasts, including golfers who can benefit from real-time swing analysis and course information.

Be Part of the Future of Innovation
The ‘Unfold the Classic’ exhibition at Pavilion KL offers visitors an exclusive opportunity to experience Huawei’s latest advancements in technology. Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, the pop-up store allows guests to test the newest foldable devices and even pre-order the HUAWEI Mate XT, available until 14 March 2025.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of smartphones—visit Pavilion KL today and explore the next evolution of foldable technology!

How to Buy and Stay Updated
The HUAWEI Mate XT is available for pre-order at HUAWEI Experience Stores, the HUAWEI Official Website, and HUAWEI’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. For the latest updates, promotions, and exclusive offers, follow Huawei on Facebook, Instagram, and the official HUAWEI website.