Category: Lifestyle

Lifestyle

Keretapi Sarong 2025: Malaysia’s Biggest Cultural Flash Mob Goes Global

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Keretapi Sarong 2025 (KS25) is back on 13 September 2025 with the theme “Serumpun”. This marks the ninth year of the event, and it continues to grow into a true Malaysia Day tradition. If you’ve never experienced it before, imagine a moving flash mob where everyone comes together in sarongs, celebrating unity and diversity while riding from 11 starting stations across the Klang Valley before meeting at one central destination in Kuala Lumpur.

The 11 starting stations are:

Subang Jaya (LRT Kelana Jaya route)
Kinrara BK5 (LRT Sri Petaling route)
KL Sentral (ERL Transit)
Kajang (MRT Kajang route)
Gombak (LRT Kelana Jaya route)
Ampang (LRT Ampang route)
Mutiara Damansara (MRT Kajang route)
UPM (MRT Putrajaya route)
Hang Tuah (LRT Ampang route)
Sri Damansara Sentral (MRT Putrajaya route)
Putrajaya Sentral (KLIA Transit)
SECRET LOCATION

Supported by RapidKL as the Main Collaborator, Keretapi Sarong 2025 will also bring creative showcases, performances, and community highlights that tie into Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship year. It’s not just a cultural spectacle, but also a regional statement of togetherness. With RapidKL’s train and bus network serving as the heartbeat of this movement, the event highlights how Malaysia Day is about moving forward together as one, united by culture, art, and mobility.

What’s exciting is that Keretapi Sarong 2025 has expanded way beyond KL. This year, it’ll also be celebrated in George Town, Ipoh, Kuantan, Sungai Petani, Pasir Mas, Johor Bahru, and Melaka. And it doesn’t stop there — overseas editions are happening too, in places like Berlin, Melbourne, London, and Sydney. It really shows how much this tradition resonates, even among Malaysians abroad.

Aside from the train rides and performances, there are plenty of interesting highlights. MAGGI will be launching their new Sup Ayam Berempah flavour (and Keretapi Sarong 2025 participants get the first taste!), while EPF is bringing its “Merdeka Daripada Scam” campaign with fun and interactive activities to help people stay scam-smart. ZUS Coffee is also joining in with their “Kopi Sarong, Kopi Kita” activation, plus their new ZUS NGUPI® canned coffee and heritage-inspired tumbler collection.

Tourism Selangor is on board too, showcasing the state’s colourful traditions as part of Visit Selangor 2025. On top of that, there’s a whole lineup of supporting partners — from Gardenia and AirAsia to Nando’s, Clinelle, and TGV Cinemas — making Keretapi Sarong 2025 not just a celebration but a full-on cultural festival.

If you’re planning to join, just grab your sarong, pick a starting station, and be ready to ride in style. It’s one of those experiences that makes you feel proud to be Malaysian, while reminding us that unity is best celebrated together — sarong and all.

Among other partners of this event, include Gardenia, One Drop Perfumes, Bulan Bintang, Madre, AirAsia, Yeo’s, KWC, Nando’s, Clinelle, Tudung Ruffle, TGV Cinemas, Fried Chillies, Media Prima, Rakita, TraXXfm, Ayam Gepuk Top Global, Air Selangor and many more, Keretapi Sarong 2025 reflects a broad coalition of support for culture, community and creativity.

For more information about Keretapi Sarong, follow and get more details and information by following their social media updates as stated below:
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/locco.my
Website : www.locco.com.my
Instagram : www.instagram.com/locco.my / www.instagram.com/keretapisarong
X : www.x.com/locco.my
TikTok : www.tiktok.com/@locco.my

Lifestyle, Misc

Malaysia Declares 15 September 2025 as Public Holiday — Enjoy a 4-Day Long Weekend!

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Guys! As we already know, our Prime Minister announced that Monday, 15 September 2025, will be a public holiday for all Malaysians! That’s right — a long weekend is officially on the cards, and it’s all in conjunction with Malaysia Day, which falls on Tuesday, 16 September 2025.

As someone who juggles work and short getaways, I think this bonus holiday is a great opportunity to take a breather or plan something fun with family or friends. Whether you’re heading back to your hometown, exploring a new café, or just enjoying a well-deserved nap at home, this announcement definitely comes as good news.

So why was 15 September 2025 made a public holiday?
According to PM Anwar Ibrahim, it’s all about giving Malaysians extra time to reflect on the country’s unity and journey since its formation. Symbolically, it adds weight to Malaysia Day celebrations, making it a true moment of togetherness and national pride.

And yes, the implementation of the additional holiday is subject to provisions under Section 60D(1) of the Employment Act 1955 (Act 265) for Peninsular Malaysia and the Federal Territory of Labuan; the Sabah Labour Ordinance (Chapter 67), the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (Chapter 76) and the Holidays Act 1951 (Act 369) as the basis for the announcement of the official additional holiday by the government.

Here’s what employers and employees need to know:

  • If your company already assigned 11 paid public holidays for 2025, this 15 Sept holiday still counts as an extra mandatory day off.
  • Employers can:
    1. Give the day off with full pay,
    2. Ask employees to work, but pay them double (2x daily wage) and triple (3x hourly rate for OT hours),
    3. Replace the holiday with another paid day off.
  • If you’re working on that day, make sure you check your payroll — the Employment Act ensures proper compensation, including overtime rates if applicable.

For employers, especially those in F&B, healthcare, logistics, or retail, you might want to start adjusting your shift planning and payroll settings now. Even the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has urged the government to gazette the holiday early, so businesses can prepare.

From a practical point of view, this bonus holiday is perfect for planning a gathering with loved ones, exploring local attractions, or finally going on that short getaway you’ve always had in mind.

So, mark your calendars:
📅 13 Sept (Saturday)
📅 14 Sept (Sunday)
📅 15 Sept (Monday – Public Holiday)
📅 16 Sept (Tuesday – Malaysia Day)

4 days of freedom.
You’re welcome.

So, what do you plan to do during the long weekend?

Lifestyle, Travel

Ascott Star Rewards Festival 2025 at MYTOWNKL – Hotel Deals, Live Music & Freebies!

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I attended the launch of the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) Festival 2025 at MyTOWN Shopping Centre and honestly, it’s one of the more fun events I’ve been to lately. Happening from 24 to 27 July 2025, this 4-day festival runs daily from 10AM to 9:30PM and brings together a bit of everything — music, games, rewards, travel deals, and some pretty cool collabs.

Organised by Ascott Malaysia, the whole setup feels like a mix of lifestyle carnival and travel expo, but with a more relaxed vibe. You’ll see familiar names like CIMB, ShopBack, Jaecoo by Weststar, ASTRO Rocketfuel, and SONY Music Malaysia taking part.

Who is the Next Star of SONY Music?
One of the highlights is the SONY Music Karaoke Competition on Saturday (26th) and Sunday (27th). This one’s for aspiring singers — the winner gets to record one song in duet with a SONY Music artiste. Pretty epic chance if you’ve always dreamt of going pro! And even if you’re not singing, just hang around — there are live performances by Naqiu, Wany Hasrita, Kidd Santhe, Vanessa Reynauld, Yulia and others.

Travel Deals & Freebies
If you’re planning a trip anytime soon, the hotel deals here are quite solid. Ascott is offering up to 40% off room bookings in Malaysia and nearby countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and more.

  • Deals run online and onsite
  • On-site buyers get a turn inside the Human Wind Chamber — 10 seconds to grab flying money. It’s fun to watch too!
  • You’ll also walk away with a MYTOWNKL Flower Bricks Blind Box and a CIMB Octo keychain.

Games, Giveaways & More
The vibe’s lively with interactive booths, mini games, lucky draws, and giveaways happening throughout the day. CIMB and ShopBack have booths with some perks, and Jaecoo has a car display if you’re curious about their latest model.

If you’re free this weekend and happen to be near MYTOWNKL, it’s worth dropping by. Whether you’re just looking to chill, shop around, catch a live performance or hunt for travel deals — this one’s got a bit of everything. Runs until Sunday (27 July), so still time to check it out.

📍MyTOWN Shopping Centre (Central Town)
🕙 10AM – 9:30PM daily

Lifestyle, Misc, Shopping

Malaysia One-off RM100 Cash Aid 2025: How Every Malaysian Adult Can Claim It with MyKad

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If you’re a Malaysian aged 18 and above, here’s some good news — you’re getting a one-off RM100 cash handout directly through your MyKad. This was officially announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in a televised address as part of a nationwide effort to ease the cost-of-living burden for all Malaysians.

What makes this announcement special to me? It’s the first time in Malaysia’s history that every adult citizen (aged 18 and above) — regardless of income group — will receive cash assistance under the government’s Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme. And the best part? It’s not by household — it’s individual. That means if you and your three other adult family members live under the same roof, that’s RM400 total for your household.

I was already eligible to receive a monthly allowance under the SARA programme, so I thought it’d be helpful to share my experience on how to make the most of the aid using the MyKasih app.

The one-off RM100 cash aid will be made available starting 31 August 2025 and must be spent by 31 December 2025. However, it’s not withdrawable cash — it can only be used to purchase essential items at over 4,100 participating grocery stores and supermarkets nationwide.

Any unspent amount after December 31 will be returned to the government and channeled into future aid programmes for vulnerable groups.

What Can You Buy with the one-off RM100 SARA Aid?
The RM100 can be used for basic goods only. Here’s a list of eligible categories under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme:

  • Rice, bread, noodles, biscuits, eggs, flour
  • Cooking oil and basic seasonings
  • Milk, beverages, and canned food
  • Personal hygiene items like toothpaste, soap, sanitary pads
  • Household cleaning items such as detergent and dishwashing liquid
  • Over-the-counter medicine including paracetamol and cough syrup
  • School supplies including stationery and basic shoes

You cannot use the RM100 to purchase snacks, soft drinks, fast food, frozen meat without labels, or premium/imported goods. Just look out for the MyKasih label or scan the barcode using the app to confirm if the item is eligible.

How to Use the RM100 Cash Aid at the Store

  1. Visit any participating grocery store or supermarket
  2. Choose items from the approved list
  3. Inform the cashier you’re paying via MyKasih
  4. Present your MyKad and key in your 6-digit PIN
  5. The eligible amount will be deducted directly from your RM100 balance
  6. Keep the receipt to track your usage

The MyKasih system will automatically reject ineligible items, so you won’t accidentally overspend on the wrong products.

Step-by-Step How to Check Eligible Items on the MyKasih App

Step 1: Download the MyKasih App

  • Go to Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone)
  • Search for MyKasih
  • Install and open the app
    (App name: MyKasih – official app by MyKasih Foundation)

Step 2: Log in or Register

  • Register using your MyKad number
  • Set a 6-digit PIN for security (For first time login, temporary PIN is the first 6-digits of your MyKad)
  • If you’re already registered, just log in with your existing MyKad and PIN

Step 3: Go to the Barcode Scanner Feature

  • On the main dashboard, tap on “Check Item” or look for the barcode icon
  • This lets you scan any product barcode while you’re in the store

Step 4: Scan the Item Barcode

  • Point your phone camera at the item’s barcode
  • The app will immediately tell you whether the item is eligible or not eligible under the SARA programme

Step 5: Check Your Balance Anytime

  • Your remaining SARA balance is shown on the homepage
  • It updates every time you spend using your MyKad at a participating store

Step 6: Locate Nearby Participating Merchants

Make sure to shop only at these outlets for the aid to work

Tap on “Find Merchants” to find nearby supermarkets and grocers that accept MyKasih

Participating merchants include Mydin, Giant, Econsave, The Store, Pacific, Miimewa, 99 Speedmart, Lotuss Stores and some independent supermarkets and mini markets.

Step 7: Check Eligible Items for Purchase

Tap on “Catalogue” for the full list of eligible items

Other Announcements by the Prime Minister
Along with the RM100 cash handout, here are a few more things the government announced to help ease the rakyat’s burden:

  • RON95 petrol will be reduced to RM1.99 per litre
  • Details on targeted fuel subsidy will be shared by end of September
  • Toll hikes at 10 major highways will be postponed
  • An additional public holiday has been declared on 15 September 2025

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Top 20 of Astro Classic Golden Melody Singing Competition Officially Announced

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Malaysia’s highest-rated Chinese singing competition show, Astro Classic Golden Melody Singing Competition 2025 《Astro经典名曲歌唱大赛2025》, made its grand debut on 19th July 2025! Marking a significant 25th anniversary milestone, the show continues its mission to uncover hidden singing talents across the country — now with a brand-new stage and visual experience to thank its loyal viewers.

This year’s competition is packed with highlights, as the Top 20 contestants from the Senior Group 前辈组 and Junior Group 后辈组 have officially been revealed. These two groups of powerhouse vocalists are set to battle it out in a fierce showdown to claim the classic title.

The format remains the same, with two team captains — Crystal 王雪晶 and WeiWei 小薇薇 — leading their respective groups in the fight to earn the Glory Team 荣耀战队 title. After a rigorous selection process, this season’s Top 20 contestants consist of seasoned competition winners, event singers, social media favourites, and even behind-the-scene music professionals. Each brings a unique experience and solid vocal strength to the stage, grabbing everyone’s attention.

Junior Group 后辈组 contestants are aged between 35 and 41, coming from diverse backgrounds including performance artists, hairstylists, housewives, and engineers. The lineup includes:

  • Ivan 罗昊晨 (37, Selangor)
  • Yuni 许云妮 (40, Selangor)
  • Kalvin 廖凯汶 (35, Johor)
  • Winli 郑文丽 (40, Penang)
  • Yui 陈静宜 (35, Kedah)
  • Alex 叶东城 (36, Perak)
  • Catherine 孙艺绫 (35, Penang)
  • Ar C 官佩楒 (39, Selangor)
  • Elsie 陈诗怡 (41, Sarawak)
  • Yean 黄俊焰 (36, Kedah)

Senior Group 前辈组 contestants bring with them rich stage experience and extraordinary backgrounds — from band members to vocal coaches and long-time industry dreamers. Their life journeys and emotional depth promise to add greater soul to the “classic stage.” The group includes:

  • James 洪健丰 (46, Kelantan)
  • Suzan 傅淑甄 (48, Penang)
  • Jasmine 何纾磊 (45, Kuala Lumpur)
  • Christine 吴玥霖 (48, Perak)
  • Dave 郭志豪 (48, Penang)
  • Kin 卢彬坚 (48, Perak)
  • Eva 邱楚惠 (48, Penang)
  • Evon 郑莉瑛 (51, Sarawak)
  • Blue 谢晓莹 (47, Johor)
  • Tham 陈冠龙 (50, Johor)

In addition to the exciting competition format, this year’s production team organised a special 25th Anniversary Mini Concert prior to the auditions, inviting past contestants to return and perform — injecting the show with a heartfelt “classic spirit.” It’s more than just promotion — it’s a way to thank loyal fans by bringing back familiar voices that have touched many over the years.

Audiences will witness not only the efforts of new generation singers but also relive the unforgettable “classic voices” that once accompanied their own journeys.

Astro Classic Golden Melody Singing Competition 2025 is about to heat up! Which team will win the judges’ favour through unity and talent? Which contestant will break through and rise to glory?
Let’s wait and see — and create today’s classics together!

📺 Don’t miss the show every Saturday at 8:30 PM on Astro AEC (Channel 306).
Also available on Astro GO, On Demand, or sooka.

For more details and competition terms, visit The Golden Club’s official Facebook page: @TGCTheGoldenClub, and Instagram: @tgc_thegoldenclub

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.