Entertainment, Lifestyle

Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2025: A Spectacular Celebration to Welcome the Chinese New Year

Astro’s flagship Chinese New Year event, the Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2025 《Astro喜乐乐SHARE丰年新春跨年派对》, has once again captivated audiences nationwide. Pre-recorded at IJM Rimbayu, this grand celebration drew a crowd of over 10,000 attendees and will premiere on 28 January 2025 (Chinese New Year’s Eve), at 9:30 PM. Viewers can catch the excitement on Astro AEC (Channel 306), Astro GO, On Demand, or sooka, making it the perfect way to ring in the Chinese New Year.

A Stellar Lineup and Exciting Themes
Co-sponsored by IJM Rimbayu and powered by U Mobile as the official communications partner, the event is helmed by returning producers Pei Yong and Jaspers Lai. Hosting this year’s gala is an all-star male lineup featuring Jack Lim, Yann Kong Han, Nicholas Ong, and Darren Chong. Over 60 celebrities, including popular Malaysian artists, influencers, and Hong Kong superstar Bobby Au Yeung, as well as Singaporean comedy king Mark Lee, will take center stage.

The gala’s narrative revolves around a time-traveling detective, portrayed by Jaspers Lai, who opens a time rift, leading audiences on a journey through the Qing Dynasty, Republican Era, 1980s, 1990s, and modern times. The event combines creativity, technology, dance, and music, offering a multi-dimensional experience.

Show Highlights

  • Opening Performance: A vibrant medley of Malaysian-style festive classics featuring Mavis Gan, Freddie Huang, Crystal Ong, and more.
  • Elegant Dance Performances: Traditional cultural dances presented by Weon Kuan, Joey Leong, and others in Graceful Festive Moves.
  • Comedy Extravaganza: Local comedian Lucas joins his idol Mark Lee for a hilarious sketch, exploring parenting challenges with laugh-out-loud antics.
  • Classic Hits Revival: Performers like Jazz Bai Lin, Amy Chan and Kevin Lee deliver a Broadway-style musical titled Golden Melodies of the Ages.
  • Thrilling Circus Acts: Daring performances in Magical Circus Wonders, highlighted by a knife-throwing act by Lai Ming Quan that kept the audience on edge.
  • Tribute to Legends: A nostalgic homage to 1980s and 1990s stars, including Anita Mui, Aaron Kwok, and Leslie Cheung, with appearances by Bobby Au Yeung and other notable actors.
  • Rhythmic Showcase: A high-energy dance and percussion show titled Dynamic Beats Spectacle that brought the house down.

Grand Finale and Fireworks
The evening concludes with a dazzling fireworks display and a joyful celebration alongside all performers, creating unforgettable memories for attendees and viewers alike.

How to Watch and Subscribe
Don’t miss the Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2025 on 28 January 28 at 9:30 PM. Tune in via Astro AEC (Channel 306), Astro GO, On Demand, or sooka. For more information on Astro’s 2025 Chinese New Year campaign, visit xilele2025.com.

Special Subscription Deals

  • Astro One Package: Just RM49.99/month, offering endless entertainment at your fingertips.
  • Astro Fibre Bundle: Upgrade to 500Mbps unlimited internet and the Entertainment package for RM139.99/month.

Subscribe now via My Astro App, astro.com.my, or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838 to enhance your streaming experience.

Food & Drink

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with Marrybrown Egg-stra Ong – A Festive Feast of Salted Egg Delights!

Me trying Marrybrown’s Egg-stra Ong menu

As the Lunar New Year approaches, there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than by indulging in Marrybrown’s Egg-stra Ong menu, a seasonal favourite that’s finally back to tantalize taste buds across Malaysia. Known as the nation’s beloved homegrown Halal Quick Service Restaurant (QSR), Marrybrown® combines the irresistible flavours of salted egg and spice in dishes crafted to bring families and friends together for joyful celebrations. Whether you’re a fan of bold, savoury flavors or looking to elevate your festive gatherings, the Egg-stra Ong menu offers the perfect blend of taste, tradition, and togetherness.

“The Lunar New Year is about hope, new beginnings, and family togetherness,” shared Mr. Daniel Chan, CEO of Marrybrown®. And this sentiment shines through in every bite of the Egg-stra Ong dishes. Whether you’re catching up with loved ones or just treating yourself, this menu will add that festive spark to your celebrations.

Here’s what’s on the menu:

  • Egg-stra Ong Mashed Bowl (from RM6.88): Creamy mashed potatoes topped with salted egg sauce and crispy chicken bites—a simple yet flavorful comfort food.
  • Egg-stra Ong Spicy Burger Combo (from RM18.38): Juicy and bold, this salted egg burger is paired with crispy French Fries and refreshing Minute Maid® orange juice.
  • Egg-stra Ong Chicken Combo (from RM20.38): Choose between 2-pc or 3-pc Ayam Goreng MB®, drenched in salted egg sauce and served with mashed potatoes and a vegetable salad.
  • Egg-stra Ong Box Meal (from RM24.88): The ultimate combo featuring 1-pc Egg-stra Ong Chicken, an Egg-stra Ong Spicy Burger, French Fries, and orange juice.
  • 5-pc Ong Bucket (from RM55.88): Perfect for family gatherings, this bucket offers 5-pc Ayam Goreng MB®, Chicken Fillet, Nuggets, and drinks to share.

As I enjoyed these dishes, it was clear why this menu has become a festive tradition for many families. The flavors perfectly capture the warmth of reunions and the excitement of new beginnings.

Marrybrown, with over 500 restaurants in 16 countries, continues to deliver exceptional dining experiences. Whether it’s for dine-in, takeaway, or delivery, the Egg-stra Ong menu is available now until 23 February 2024.

Celebrate this Lunar New Year the delicious way—head to your nearest Marrybrown today and enjoy the Egg-stra Ong menu. Trust me, you’ll love every bite!

For more updates and promotions, visit Marrybrown’s website or follow them on social media.

MB App: https://mbapp.marrybrown.com/
Facebook: Marrybrown Malaysia
Instagram: Marrybrownmy
TikTok: Marrybrownmy
Threads: Marrybrownmy
YouTube: Marrybrown TV

Shopping

Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 at Fahrenheit88 with PowerFU Prosperity

Get ready to welcome the Year of the Snake with a dazzling celebration at Fahrenheit88! From 8 January to 16 February 2025, immerse yourself in a unique blend of creativity, culture, and festivity during the mall’s ‘PowerFU Prosperity’ extravaganza. With artistic displays, exciting performances, and immersive experiences, this Chinese New Year promises to be unforgettable!

Meet the PowerFU Lucky Fortune Cat: Powering Your Prosperity!
The centerpiece of the celebration is the Lucky Fortune Cat, presented by Top Toy. Standing at a majestic 8 feet tall, this isn’t just any cat—it’s your ultimate symbol of luck and abundance. Visit the Main Atrium, touch the Lucky Fortune Cat for blessings, and capture Instagram-worthy photos surrounded by stunning lantern-filled rooms and auspicious decorations.

A Prosperous Journey Awaits
Prosperity Lane invites you to stroll through an enchanting pathway adorned with cascading red lanterns and intricate festive decor. Feel the essence of joy and abundance as you make your way to the magical Wishing Tree to tie your aspirations for the year ahead.

The Prosperity Market is a bustling marketplace filled with festive home décor, traditional attire, and perfect gifts. Don’t miss the master artisans from China demonstrating traditional candy art, dragon beard candy-making, and palm painting—a treat for all ages.

Glow Up with Bath & Body Works
Bath & Body Works adds a touch of glamour to the celebration with their Perfect in Pink collection. Stop by their showcase at the Main Atrium to enjoy uplifting scents, exclusive promotions, and complimentary gifts that will have you glowing into the new year.

Festive Fun for Everyone
What’s a celebration without exciting activities? Here’s what’s in store:

Cultural Performances:

  • Umbrella Dance: 18 Jan and 9 Feb at 12 PM
  • Ribbon Snake Dance: 30 Jan and 1 Feb at 12 PM
  • Calligraphy Giveaway: 26 Jan from 2 PM to 6 PM

Workshops:

  • Blossom Tree Clay Art: 25 Jan at 11 AM
  • Lucky Cat Clay Art: 8 Feb at 11 AM

Captivating Exhibitions
Le Petit Prince®: The Immersive Journey (3rd Floor) lets you explore the heartwarming themes of love and friendship in this enchanting exhibition, running until 21 March 2025.

Kamen Rider 50 Years Exhibition (2nd Floor) celebrates the iconic Japanese superhero with rare displays and costumes. Open until 16 March 2025.

Shop the Latest Openings
Kickstart your Chinese New Year shopping with these exciting new outlets:
HLA offers fresh fashion styles. Top Toy features surprise-filled blind boxes. A Day Department Store supports unique artisan designers and entrepreneurs.

Prosperity Rewards
Spend RM150 to redeem limited-edition angpow packets. Spend RM350 to enjoy exclusive Top Toy merchandise and Bath & Body Works vouchers.

Join the celebration and make your Chinese New Year unforgettable at Fahrenheit88! For more information, follow their social media platforms or contact their Customer Service at 03-2148 5488.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/Fahrenheit88
IG: https://www.instagram.com/fahrenheit88/
XHS: Fahrenheit88’s xiaohongshu
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fahrenheit88mall

Hobbies, Lifestyle

Kamen Rider 50th Anniversary Exhibition Lands in Kuala Lumpur at INCUBASE Arena Malaysia!

The much-anticipated Kamen Rider 50th Anniversary Exhibition is continuing its spectacular Asia tour and making its first-ever stop in Malaysia! From 10 January to 16 March 2025, fans can experience this legendary showcase at the newly launched INCUBASE Arena Malaysia, located on Level 2 of Fahrenheit88, Kuala Lumpur.

INCUBASE Arena Malaysia: The Ultimate Hub for Anime Lovers
As the first international branch of Hong Kong’s renowned INCUBASE Arena, this venue has quickly become a dynamic hub for Japanese anime and culture enthusiasts. Collaborating with Toei Co., Ltd. and Medialink Group (2230.HK), the Kamen Rider 50th Anniversary Exhibition will be the arena’s inaugural event, promising an unforgettable experience for fans.

Relive 50 Years of Heroic Legacy
Since its debut in 1971, Kamen Rider has captivated audiences with its heartfelt stories of human vulnerability and heroism. The exhibition celebrates the franchise’s evolution across the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras, featuring legendary Riders like Masked Rider Black (Kesatria Baja Hitam), Black RX, Agito, Ryuki, Den-O, W, and the latest heroes: Zero-One, Saber, Geats, and Gotchard.

Malaysia’s exhibition replicates the grandeur of the Japanese showcase, offering fans:

  • Life-sized Rider statues
  • Authentic actor costumes
  • Replica manga pages
  • Original TV props
  • A Malaysia-exclusive zone for immersive experiences

Event Highlights
1. Celebrate Iconic Riders
Trace Kamen Rider’s evolution through life-sized statues, original costumes, multimedia displays, and TV memorabilia spanning five decades.

2. Interactive Experiences
Join a stamp rally across the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras to unlock unique rewards. Take pictures at themed photo zones featuring Riders and iconic backdrops.

3. Exclusive Merchandise
Shop for official Japanese exhibition merchandise, including Malaysia-exclusive items and limited-edition collectibles directly imported from Japan.

4. Malaysia Book of Records Event
On 12 January 2025, be part of history during the Largest Kamen Rider Fan Belt Gathering, certified by the Malaysia Book of Records.

5. Meet Iconic Riders
Special meet-and-greet sessions with Riders in full costume offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance to create lasting memories.

Event Details
Date: 10 January – 16 March 2025
Venue: INCUBASE Arena Malaysia
Level 2, Unit 202-206, Fahrenheit88
179 Jalan Gading, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

Operating Hours:
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last entry at 9:00 PM)

Tickets Available On:
INCUTIX | Ticket2U | Klook

Follow INCUBASE Arena Malaysia for updates and announcements:
FB: www.facebook.com/incubase.arena.my
IG: www.instagram.com/incubase.arena.my

Food & Drink

Tous les Jours Finds New Home in Malaysia: CJ Foodville Partners with Stream Empire Holdings to Launch French-Korean Bakery Experience

The globally renowned French-Korean bakery café, Tous les Jours, is officially making its way to Malaysia. CJ Foodville, a leader in the food and beverage industry, has announced an exciting partnership with SEH Food, a subsidiary of Stream Empire Holdings, to bring this premium bakery experience to Malaysian consumers. The flagship outlet is set to open at Sunway Pyramid by Q2 2025, offering a world-class bakery experience.

What is Tous les Jours?
Meaning “every day” in French, Tous les Jours has built a reputation as a neighborhood bakery specializing in French-Korean inspired baked goods, handcrafted beverages, and rich coffee made with premium ingredients. With over 1,300 stores in Korea and 550 outlets worldwide, including the United States, Canada, China, Mongolia, and ASEAN countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and Singapore, the brand is celebrated for its commitment to quality and innovation.

Why Malaysia?
Malaysia’s growing interest in premium bakery culture and its affinity for Korean brands make it an ideal market for Tous les Jours. To cater to local preferences, the brand will utilize its halal-certified manufacturing facilities in Indonesia, ensuring its offerings meet the needs of the Malaysian market. The flagship store at Sunway Pyramid will serve as the cornerstone for expansion across the country, aiming to establish Tous les Jours as a leading bakery-café destination.

Partnership Highlights
SEH Food, appointed as the master franchisee for Tous les Jours in Malaysia, is part of Stream Empire Holdings. Known for managing international brands like New Era, Quiksilver, Roxy, and ByWishtrend, Stream Empire Holdings is making its debut in the F&B sector with this collaboration.

Justin Lim, CEO of Stream Empire Holdings, shared, “This partnership with CJ Foodville is a game-changer for us. It not only diversifies our portfolio but also meets the rising demand for premium bakery experiences in Malaysia. Tous les Jours’ blend of French and Korean flavors perfectly complements our mission to introduce world-class brands to Malaysian consumers.”

Jeong Soo Won, Southeast Asia Region Head of CJ Foodville, added, “Malaysia is a vibrant market with a deep appreciation for quality bakery experiences. Partnering with Stream Empire Holdings allows us to bring Tous les Jours’ French-Korean inspired delights to a new audience, creating meaningful connections through freshly baked goods.”

Economic and Industry Impact
This collaboration is expected to boost Malaysia’s economy by creating job opportunities, attracting investments in retail spaces, and developing strong supply chain networks. With CJ Foodville’s global expertise in the F&B industry and Stream Empire Holdings’ retail and e-commerce experience, the rollout of Tous les Jours in Malaysia is set for long-term success.

Stay updated on the latest news and opening dates:
IG: @touslesjours_my
FB: Tous Les Jours MY

Experience the perfect fusion of French artistry and Korean flavors when Tous les Jours opens its doors in Sunway Pyramid in 2025.

About CJ Foodville
CJ Foodville is a leading food service company in South Korea, dedicated to enriching lives through innovative culinary experiences. The company’s name reflects its mission to create a “food village” where people can come together to enjoy exceptional food and create lasting memories.

Key Brands
CJ Foodville operates a variety of renowned brands that have earned the trust and loyalty of customers worldwide. These include:

  • Tous les Jours: A globally recognized bakery café brand offering fresh, high-quality baked goods.
  • VIPS: A premium salad bar and steakhouse known for its fresh and diverse menu.

Tous les Jours
Tous les Jours, a flagship brand of CJ Foodville, is an artisanal bakery café chain known for its dedication to freshness and quality. The name “Tous les Jours,” which means “Every Day” in French, perfectly encapsulates the brand’s philosophy of providing customers with freshly baked goods every single day. Since its inception in 1997, Tous les Jours has grown into a globally recognized brand, bringing the joy of freshly made bread, pastries, and cakes to customers around the world.

About Stream Empire Holdings
With nearly 40 years of groundbreaking pursuits in the active and lifestyle industry, Stream Empire Holdings Sdn. Bhd. is a multinational corporation that continues to strive for excellence in expanding their retail business and commercial activities across South-East Asia region, cultivating their philosophy: 

“Teamwork is the key to success”
Based in Malaysia, Stream Empire Holdings Sdn. Bhd. now has more than 60 retail outlets across the region, driven by over 100 highly motivated and professional individuals working closely together with global partners in empowering long-lasting relationships to become Asia’s leading active and lifestyle brand.

Key Brands
Stream Empire Holdings brings global brands within the realm of sports and lifestyle to their consumers in Asia to elevate customers’ shopping experience as well as provide high quality products and services that satisfy their needs.

New EraHavaianas2XUQuiksilver
RoxyDC ShoesBillabongAdmiral
Budak BaekCrep ProtectShowcaseTower Box
The Marathon ShopRookieBoardridersByWishtrend