Lifestyle

MY FM DJ Jack Lim Sets Record As Longest-Serving Chinese Radio Host in Malaysia

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.

For more details about MY FM, visit my.com.my or follow them on
FB: www.facebook.com/xiaoMY
IG: www.instagram.com/MYFM

Food & Drink

Meet Mee x Nisabakri Gourmet Launch Chili Wantan Mee, A Spicy New Chapter in Instant Noodles

On 16 April 2025, I had the pleasure of attending the soft launch of a unique collaboration between two notable local brands: Meet Mee and Nisabakri Gourmet. Held at the classy KL Wellness City Gallery, the event was an elegant gathering of media friends, food industry insiders, and loyal supporters of both brands.

At the heart of the launch was their latest creation: Chili Wantan Mee – a fiery twist on a beloved Malaysian classic. This isn’t just any instant noodle pack – it’s a full-on gourmet experience made accessible to everyone. The product brings together the culinary brilliance of Chef Puan Sri Nisa Bakri, a household name known for her refined palate and passion for local cuisine, and the fast-growing innovation-driven team at Meet Mee.

After a full year of dedicated R&D, the duo unveiled what they confidently describe as one of the few halal-certified Wantan Mee products on the market. The goal is to make this iconic dish accessible to all Malaysians, especially Muslim consumers who’ve long wanted a halal version of their favorite noodle dish.

Each pack is a complete meal experience: springy noodles, dipping soy sauce, chili oil, crispy crackers, and even shrimp shakers for that extra umami kick. Prep time? Just four minutes. Whether you’re a traveler, camper, hiker, student, or just someone who appreciates a good meal without the hassle, this product checks all the boxes.

Chef Nisa shared her excitement during the event, expressing how this collaboration is more than just a product launch – it’s about celebrating Malaysian culinary identity and pushing it to new heights through digital platforms and modern innovation. Her hope is that this dish will not only satisfy local taste buds but also introduce Malaysian flavours to global palates.

Want to try it yourself? You can now grab Chili Wantan Mee via TikTok on these official accounts:
👉 @meetmee.official
👉 @nisabakrigourmet

As Meet Mee and Nisabakri Gourmet look to bring this spicy creation to homes around the world, they’re also inviting exporters, retailers, and F&B partners to join them on this flavourful journey. This is truly a proud moment for Malaysian food innovation – and we’re just getting started.

Lifestyle

Astro BIZone Launches RM3 Million Rewards Campaign for SME F&B Outlets

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.

For full campaign details and terms, visit https://biz.astro.com.my/bizone-rewards, WhatsApp AstroBIZ at +603 9544 7566, or email astrobusinesssupport@astro.com.my . The campaign runs until 17 October 2025.

Entertainment, Lifestyle

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

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.

Travel

Top Hotel Picks in Phuket: Best Western Patong and Oceanfront Resort Review

Planning a beach getaway to Phuket soon? I recently had the chance to stay at two very different—but equally awesome—hotels that I think you’ll want to consider. Whether you’re here for beach vibes, convenience, or comfort, these two hotels deliver in their own way. Here’s my honest take based on my personal experience.

1. Best Western Patong Beach Resort
📍190 ถนน ผังเมืองสายกอ Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

If you’re looking for a stay right in the heart of Patong without breaking the bank, this hotel is a gem. I stayed here for 2 nights, and it was super convenient for exploring the lively streets, local food spots, and of course, Patong Beach.

Room Facilities & Amenities
Clean, modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, a comfy bed, mini fridge, in-room safe, flat-screen TV, and air conditioning (a must in Phuket). The bathroom was spacious with a powerful hot shower. Other facilities include a rooftop swimming pool and jacuzzi with a bar, a fitness centre and an internet corner.

Breakfast:
Buffet-style with both Western and Thai options—nothing fancy but enough to fill you up before heading out.

Location & Accessibility:
Located just a short 10-minute walk to Patong Beach and Jungceylon Mall. Lots of restaurants and 7-Eleven stores nearby. Perfect for first-timers in Phuket.

Website: www.bestwesternpatongbeach.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/BWPatongBeach
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bestwesternpatongbeach/

2. Oceanfront Beach Resort and Spa
📍320 2 Phrabaramee Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

For a more relaxing and scenic vibe, I switched over to Oceanfront Beach Resort, a 5-star hotel in Kalim. This place is all about sea views and tranquility.

Room Facilities & Amenities:
Spacious rooms with stunning sea-facing balconies. My room had a large bathtub, coffee machine, Smart TV, and a dreamy king-size bed. Definitely more upscale and great for couples or solo unwinders. Other facilities include an outdoor swimming pool & jacuzzi, fitness centre, snooker & pool room, squash court, restaurants, and more.

Breakfast:
This is one of my favourite breakfast experience. They offer a really good spread! Fresh fruits, pastries, eggs cooked to order, Thai dishes, and barista-made coffee & beverages.

Location & Accessibility:
A bit more secluded, about 10 minutes by tuk-tuk from Patong. If you want serenity away from the crowd, this is it. Also it’s 2-minute walking distance to the nearest 7-Eleven store.

Website: www.oceanfrontphuket.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/oceanfrontphuket

Both hotels gave me a different side of Phuket—one vibrant, one peaceful—and I honestly loved both. Whether you’re in the mood to party or just relax by the sea, you won’t go wrong with either of these.

Let me know which one suits your travel style better!