Threads is a social media platform and networking service owned and operated by Meta Platforms, a company based in the United States. With similarities to Twitter, Threads allows users to interact with each other through responses, reposts, and likes while sharing text, photographs, and videos. To use Threads, users must have an Instagram account and use the same handle on both platforms. Since its launch, Threads has emerged as a strong competitor in the social media space, poised to rival Twitter. While the web version has fewer features, the app offers comprehensive functionality and is easily accessible on iOS and Android smartphones. In an impressive feat, Threads attracted 100 million users within its first five days, surpassing the previous record set by ChatGPT.
Pros of Threads:
Enhanced character limit: Threads allows users to post longer messages of up to 500 characters, enabling more detailed and expressive content.
Personalization and customization: Users can easily share their Threads posts on Instagram, expanding their reach. They can also create a separate list of Close Friends for sharing more personal and intimate content.
Discovery and exploration: Threads suggests posts from users and accounts that users have not yet followed, facilitating the discovery of new connections and a wider range of content.
Cons of Threads:
Limited features: As Threads is still in its early stages, it currently lacks certain features available on other social media platforms, such as sharing Reels or stories.
Limited community engagement: Establishing a culture and community similar to Twitter’s may be challenging for Threads, as Twitter has developed its unique environment over many years, encompassing freedom of expression, humor, memes, trends, and hashtags.
Potential addiction: The constant availability of new posts and notifications on Threads can make it addictive, potentially affecting users’ ability to manage their screen time effectively.
Lower popularity: While Threads is gaining popularity as a new social media app, it is not as widely used as established platforms like Twitter. Consequently, users may have fewer followers and friends compared to other social media sites.
Have you joined Threads yet? Explore the app’s intriguing features and potential! Follow me on Threads
From L-R: Chef Lawrence Cheong, Chocolate Academy Ambassador, Chef Amanda Lim, Head Chef, Chocolate Academy, Singapore, Mr Robert Kotuszewski, Managing Director of Malaysia, Barry Callebaut, Mr Plinio Freitas, VP of Gourmet & Marketing, APAC
As a die-hard chocolate lover, I absolutely feel contented when chocolate satisfies my sweet tooth and cravings. Therefore, I am super excited that Callebaut has officially launched their latest chocolate creations, the exquisite Ruby RB2 and the irresistible 100% Dairy-free NXT Chocolates. These innovative gourmet treats from the renowned chocolate maker, Callebaut, made their official debut in Malaysia on 15 June 2023 and are sure to captivate chocolate lovers across the world.
Ruby RB2 After dark, milk, and white chocolate, Ruby is the fourth variety. Along with its amazing ruby colour, it offers a rich fruitiness that is distinctive and tangy, fresh flavours. Ruby is a Mother Nature’s gift that is dedicated to artisans. The release of spark by Callebaut Ruby RB2 raises the bar for chocolate pleasure. Ruby RB2’s distinctive hue and taste come from the ruby cocoa bean and are original and unaltered by artificial colours or flavours that resemble berries. Nature at its most lavish is Ruby RB2.
Don’t you love the beautiful colour? I have tasted Ruby RB2. It actually has hints of sweet and sourish, like berries. Very special and unique! And I am very surprised that the colour and flavour are natural!
The worldwide launch of Callebaut Ruby RB2 in Malaysia demonstrates Callebaut’s optimism that the country’s chocolate market is also propelled by new trends. Ruby RB2 meets consumers’ appetites for new chocolate pleasures as they search for tastes that are more intense. According to research, millennials (18–35 years old), who blend a healthy lifestyle with the pursuit of extreme pleasure, are a key demographic for Ruby. Leading hotels, eateries, cafes, and bakeries and pastry shops in Malaysia will also find RB2 to be very appealing.
NXT Similar to such, Callebaut’s NXT is intended for the next generation of chocolate enthusiasts who wants emphasize on the do good and feel good factors while indulge in a more sensible way. NXT maintains the same authentic flavour and quality as traditional chocolates yet being 100% dairy-free, plant-based, and vegan.
The NXT dark chocolate and NXT M_lk chocolate are launched in Malaysia today. NXT was meticulously crafted with the intention to surprise taste buds with healthier ingredients for the environment and health. It is inspired by and produced for all chefs, chocolate lovers, and the expanding vegan and plant-based food community.
Despite having all the richness of traditional chocolates, NXT is created entirely of plant-based components and contains no traces of milk or dairy. The chufa, or tiger nut, which is sometimes referred to as a plant-based “milk” with a naturally sweet taste and is also a sustainable ingredient with much lower carbon emissions than cow’s milk, is the source of the creamy texture in NXT M_lk particularly.
NXT is produced with sunflower lecithin and free of any artificial additives, flavours, or colourants, and is prepared in a special facility that complies with the strictest food standards in the industry. This facility also does not process any dairy ingredients.
The launch of Callebaut Ruby RB2 and NXT marks a renaissance for Malaysia’s chocolatiers, pastry chefs, artisans, bakers, hotels, restaurants, and caterers, states Robert Kotuszewski, Managing Director of Barry Callebaut in Malaysia.
Malaysians have an increasing desire for unique food experiences as well as health and wellness. Furthermore, more than half of the working population in Malaysia is Gen Zs and millennials. These young consumers bring a new level of spending power, snacking behavior and taste preferences. So, I am excited that we are launching Callebaut’s RB2 and NXT Dark and M_lk chocolates today. We are equipping our customers with a new generation of chocolate inspiration and innovation which responds to the needs of the younger generations of consumers: taste good, feel good and do good!
said Robert Kotuszewski, Managing Director of Barry Callebaut in Malaysia
Callebaut’s Ruby RB2 and NXT Dark and M_lk chocolates are a game changer in the bakery and pastry sector, according to Chef Amanda Lim, a Malaysian-born chocolatier and the Head Chef at the Chocolate AcademyTM in Singapore. It establishes a high bar for attractive and dairy-free chocolate inventions and works of art. She looks forward to seeing the inventive creations made possible by these new Callebaut goods as well as the potential and prospects they bring to Malaysian chefs and artisans.
One with Chef Lawrence CheongOne with Chef Amanda Lim
According to award-winning chef Lawrence Cheong, the realm of chocolateiering now offers a vast array of creative opportunities. The intense indulgence that today’s consumers seek can be provided by chefs’ new and improved creations. For Callebaut Ruby RB2, he already sees the potential of both sweet and savoury pairings, while NXT Dark and M_lk chocolates have given him greater creative freedom to develop delicious recipes for the rising popularity of vegan and plant-based diets.
About Barry Callebaut Group With annual sales of about CHF 8.1 billion in fiscal year 2021/22, the Zurich- based Barry Callebaut Group is the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products – from sourcing and processing cocoa beans to producing the finest chocolates, including chocolate fillings, decorations and compounds. The Group runs more than 65 production facilities worldwide and employs a diverse and dedicated global workforce of more than 13,000 people.
The Barry Callebaut Group serves the entire food industry, from industrial food manufacturers to artisanal and professional users of chocolate, such as chocolatiers, pastry chefs, bakers, hotels, restaurants or caterers. The global brands catering to the specific needs of these Gourmet customers are Callebaut® and Cacao Barry®, Carma® and the decorations specialist Mona Lisa®.
The Barry Callebaut Group is committed to make sustainable chocolate the norm to help ensure future supplies of cocoa and improve farmer livelihoods. It supports the Cocoa Horizons Foundation in its goal to shape a sustainable cocoa and chocolate future.
About Callebaut In 1911, Octaaf Callebaut surprised his brothers by presenting them his first chocolate, made in all secrecy in the heart of the family-owned brewery in Wieze. Octaaf had acquired the craft during a 6 months internship with a Parisian chocolate making company. No-one knew Octaaf’s entrepreneurial dream would create a big shift for the family company. Octaaf’s recipes quickly found their way to the hearts of Belgian consumers. But the business really started taking off when Octaaf and his brother Richard decided to focus on making chocolate for the Belgian chocolatiers and professionals.
They created unique and high quality recipes for professionals such as the 811, the 823 and the W2: iconic chocolate recipes that to this very day are preferred by chefs & artisans around the world. Throughout the years, Callebaut kept perfecting the craft from bean-to-bar and innovated with the very first transportation of liquid chocolate to its customers, the invention of Callets™ that made it easier to dose, melt and temper chocolate, the launch of Ruby chocolate and the creation of the NXT dairy-free NXT chocolate for professionals to respond to the rise for delicious plant-based products. Since 2011, Callebaut also made a bold shift to sustainable cocoa for all its chocolate recipes, leading to the first, fully traceable chocolates in 2020, in partnership with Cocoa Horizons.
Throughout all its activities, the spirit of founding father Octaaf Callebaut lingers on. His entrepreneurial spirit – being always in pursuit of better – has been the red line for Callebaut to keep feeding the dreams and ambitions of artisans and chefs around the world. From young starting professionals to mature chocolatiers who want to grow their business, it’s Callebaut’s mission to support the artisans in making their mark.
Key collaborators launching the IMFeD’s Growth Watch Month 2023
8th June 2023 marks the beginning of Growth Watch Month, which aims to bring parents and healthcare professionals together to avoid stunting in kids and teenagers so they can reach their full development potential for a better future. This annual nationwide event was created by the Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA) as part of its IMFeD For Growth campaign, which started in 2012.
Launching of Growth Watch Month Growth Watch Month was jointly launched by the MPA and its partners, namely, the Malaysian Medical Association, Malaysian Family Medicine Specialists’ Association, Malaysian Association of Kindergartens, and Malaysian Association of Registered Early Child Care and Development.
Growth Watch Month is primarily focused on identifying kids and teenagers who are either stunted or at risk of stunting, according to Professor Dr. Lee Way Seah, Chairman of IMFeD For Growth Programme. The organisers will guide their parents on the proper nutritional interventions and assistance required to bring their children’s growth back on track through relevant activities.
While the majority of Malaysian children and adolescents are growing normally, childhood stunting remains a concern for the rest of them.
said Professor Dr Lee Way Seah, Chairman of IMFeD For Growth Programme
Children are expected to reach 60% of their adult height by the age of five. Sadly, according to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2022, 1 in 5 children, or 21.2%, had stunted growth. Additionally, the NHMS 2022 found that 6.8% of our teenagers were stunted. These individuals were not getting the full advantage of growth spurts that would have brought their potential adult height by an additional 15% to 20%.
Stunting Amongst Children in Malaysia Stunting has both immediate and long-term effects that are evident. Children with stunts frequently become sick more frequently, lose more learning opportunities, perform less well in school, and have lower self-esteem. They run a possibility of developing stunting as adults, which is linked to a higher risk of developing chronic diseases, reduced economic productivity, and a lower lifetime-earning potential.
We need to nip stunting in the bud. It always starts with growth faltering. This is when children are not receiving enough nutrition so their growth rate literally ‘slows’ down. Without adequate energy, protein, fats and micronutrients, including calcium, vitamin D and so on, their bones and muscles will not be able to develop at a healthy rate.
continued Professor Dr Lee Way Seah, Chairman of IMFeD For Growth Programme
Faltering growth can happen at any stage between childhood and adolescence, and because it usually happens gradually, it frequently goes undetected. The children might eventually never be able to regain their height and turn into permanently short adults who will have significant challenges for the rest of their lives.
Professor Lee emphasized that in order to attain optimal growth, a number of essential conditions must be met. These conditions include proper feeding habits, optimum nutrition, age-appropriate physical activity levels, and regular growth monitoring starting at a young age. He further stated that parents are encouraged to bring their kids, who are between the ages of 1 to 17, to have their growth evaluated by a medical practitioner who has received training in the M-I-M method.
The M-I-M Method
‘Measure’ is the first M, which stands for measurement. To determine if the children’s growth falls within the normal, at-risk, or stunted limits, the measures of the children’s weight and height are plotted onto WHO growth charts.
The following letter is the “I”, to ‘Identify’ the root problem if the kids’ growth is limited or falters. Malnutrition, unhealthy lifestyle habits, underlying medical conditions, poor parenting skills, or a combination of these, are common causes of development failure in children.
Finally, the medical staff would be equipped to “Manage” the issue. Interventions could include promoting healthy lifestyle behaviour, enhancing parenting skills, and providing adequate and appropriate nutrition.
Activities of Growth Watch Month Growth Watch Month offers the chance to draw parents’ attention to growth, according to Dr. Selva Kumar Sivapunniam, President of the Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA).
We will work with all relevant stakeholders to conduct educational activities. These will include media write-ups and interviews. Parents and caregivers will also be able to enjoy a series of four lively Parents Forums, broadcast live over Zoom, https://www.facebook.com/MPAEDS/ and https://www.youtube.com/@mpaeds
said Dr Selva Kumar Sivapunniam, President of the Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA)
The forums will feature a celebrity host and members of the IMFeD For Growth Expert Panel and address subjects including:
Feeding, Nutrition And Growth For Tiny Tots
Helping Children Shine In School
Nurturing Growth Through The Teenage Years
Parenting Tips For Healthy Children
Dr. Selva noted that the IMFeD For Growth Annual Screening Campaign, which will be held from August to November 2023 in all IMFeD clinics listed on https://clinics.imfed.my/, will be another significant highlight of Growth Watch Month. Since 2018, IMFeD has screened 127,000 kids.
Panel discussion on “Stunting in Children & Adolescents: Nature or Nature?”
During today’s Growth Watch Month start ceremony, a forum with the title “Stunting in Children and Adolescents: Nature or Nurture?” was held. IMFeD For Growth members gave insightful insights and advice during the session, which was moderated by celebrity host Daphne Iking. The experts include Dr Yong Junina Fadzil, a Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Cardiologist; Prof Dr Firdaus Mukhtar, a Clinical Psychologist; and Ms Rozanna M Rosly, a Clinical Dietitian.
For more information about IMFeD Malaysia and Growth Watch Month, visit https://www.imfed.my
I love laksa in all its varieties, including Asam Laksa, Nyonya Laksa, Laksa Johor, Laksa Kedah, and many more. Due to Malaysia’s heterogeneous population, the laksa list is endless. This is what makes Malaysia unique!
Hence, it is no doubt that the Laksa is a symbol of Malaysian culinary culture given its evocative aroma, rich flavour, and satisfying texture. The brand-new MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan, with its original flavour and distinctive aroma, is being introduced in honour of Malaysians’ love of laksa and as a tribute to the tradition of this Malaysian classic cuisine.
As a brand that has over 50-year history and a meaningful space in the hearts of Malaysians, MAGGI® continues to proudly celebrate our heritage in all our offerings. Today, we are delighted to be part of the celebration of Malaysia’s vibrant Laksa dishes as we present our latest product innovation that pays homage to our nation’s diverse and distinctive culinary heritage: our all-new MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan.
said Mr. Juan Aranols, CEO of Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad at the launch event held at the vintage-themed mansion, The Agam in Kuala Lumpur
Celebrity Chef Anis Nabilah and Professor Dr. Shahrim Karim, who is a Professor of Malaysian Heritage Food and Culture at the Faculty of Food Science and Technology at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), were in attendance at the launch event. They demonstrated their culinary skills and expertise by creating a delicious Laksa dish while sharing the dish’s rich history and evolution.
Laksa is a cuisine that has its roots in the Peranakan population and is heavily influenced by Southeast Asian cultures from China, Malaysia, and Indonesia. According to Professor Dr. Shahrim Karim, Laksa is truly Malaysia’s national dish that transcends cultures and geographical boundaries. It has evolved into a variety of dishes that we are familiar with and enjoy today, ranging from the traditional Curry Laksa to more creative dishes like Assam Laksa, Sarawak Laksa, Nyonya Laksa, and Johor Laksa.
The soul of Laksa lies in its vibrant and aromatic flavours. A good Laksa is all about the balancing act between various ingredients with the constant stirring towards the ‘pecah minyak’ stage, which is vital for the perfect Laksa flavour that culminates in a true culinary delight.
added Professor Dr. Shahrim Karim
With the growing popularity of making laksa the “Goreng” style, people have been looking for new ways to enjoy this well-known meal with family and friends in recent years. The All-New MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan is a unique variation on the Malaysian Laksa heritage that draws inspiration from this popular trend.
As Malaysia’s trusted household brand, MAGGI® aspires to deliver product offerings that embody true Malaysian flavours. Thanks to our MAGGI® Chefs’ continued dedication and culinary expertise, we have given a modern-day twist to Laksa as we introduce our latest innovation MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan. Indeed, the secret of making a good Laksa lies in its base. Hence, our new creation is carefully crafted with a blend of key aromatic ingredients, bunga kantan, daun kesum, galangal, along with fresh ingredients: onions, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, garlic and ginger, slowly cooked into a paste until ‘pecah minyak’ to deliver the distinctive flavour of the iconic Laksa dish whilst preserving its authentic recipe. We are embracing this heritage dish, by making it possible to enjoy a great tasting Laksa Goreng – anytime, anywhere!
said Ms. Ivy Tan, Business Executive Officer of MAGGI®, Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad
In keeping with the brand’s commitment to supporting Malaysians Cook the Difference, MAGGI® continues to offer exceptional food options for customers looking for easy-to-prepare, delicious meals. The 100% Australian wheat used to make the MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan noodles is a good source of both protein and carbs. MAGGI® is dedicated to serving the greatest food to customers, from sourcing premium ingredients to strict quality control.
MAGGI® has released two variants of MAGGI® Mi Goreng noodles to embrace Malaysian heritage and flavours – MAGGI® Mi Goreng Cili ala Kampung and the all-new MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan. MAGGI® Mi Goreng Laksa Warisan is available at all leading supermarkets, hypermarkets and online stores.
Very beautiful heritage building, The AgamAccidental colour coordinated with the goodie bag
One with Ah Hen, Local InfluencerOne with Arwind Kumar, Local Influencer
About MAGGI® MAGGI® is a recognised global brand that has become a household name in Malaysia. Its core mission is to create good-food moments that bring families closer together. Through its wide range of products and food solutions, MAGGI® helps mothers to prepare tasty and balanced homemade meals for their families every day. The brand is also committed to the ever-evolving needs of meal providers, providing new products and ideas, which continue to delight and inspire Malaysian families on the goodness of homemade. To learn more, please visit www.maggi.my or our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/MaggiMalaysia
About Nestlé Malaysia Nestlé is the world’s largest food and beverage manufacturer. Headquartered in Switzerland, Nestlé is present in more than 180 countries around the world, and our 270,000 employees are committed to Nestlé’s purpose of unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come. Our performance is driven by our Nutrition, Health and Wellness strategy. Nourishing Malaysians since 1912, Nestlé has earned the trust of our consumers through our quality brands and products. We are committed to improving the lives of the communities in which we operate, whilst maintaining our Halal excellence and integrity.
This is in line with our promise of delivering GOOD FOOD, GOOD LIFE to all. To learn more about how we have been nourishing Malaysians for over a century, do visit www.nestle.com.my or our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/Nestle.Malaysia
Georgetown, located on the northeastern coast of Penang Island in Malaysia, is a vibrant city that offers a wealth of cultural heritage, historical significance, and tantalizing cuisine. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a fascinating past and a thriving present. It is the place where my wife grew up in and her family still lives there. Basically I travel quite often to Penang every now and then. Hence, I would really love to share with you about what I know about Penang. Let’s delve into the 8 reasons why you should travel Georgetown:
#1 Historical Significance Established in 1786 by the British East India Company, Georgetown quickly grew into a bustling trading port. Its architecture reflects the blend of Eastern and Western influences, showcasing a captivating mix of Chinese, Indian, Malay, and British colonial styles. Strolling through its streets feels like stepping back in time.
#2UNESCO World Heritage Site In 2008, Georgetown’s historic center was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing its outstanding preservation of multicultural heritage and historic buildings. This distinction highlights the city’s commitment to conserving its unique cultural identity and architectural gems.
#3Street Art and Murals Georgetown is renowned for its vibrant street art scene. The city has become an open-air gallery, with numerous captivating murals adorning its walls. The famous “Marking George Town” project by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic showcases interactive and thought-provoking artworks depicting local life and culture.
#4Culinary Delights Food enthusiasts flock to Georgetown to experience its delectable cuisine. The city is celebrated as a haven for food lovers, offering a diverse array of flavors influenced by Chinese, Indian, and Malay communities. From aromatic hawker stalls to charming cafes and upscale restaurants, Georgetown’s culinary scene is an adventure in itself. Food to look out for when you’re in Penang are char kuey teow, prawn mee, pasembur, nasi kandar, asam laksa, cendol, white curry noodle, rojak and many more!
#5 Festivals and Celebrations Georgetown comes alive with vibrant festivities throughout the year. The city celebrates a range of cultural and religious festivals, such as Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and Thaipusam. These celebrations showcase the harmonious coexistence of different ethnic communities and provide a captivating glimpse into their traditions and customs.
#6 Cultural Scene Georgetown is a thriving hub of arts and culture in Malaysia. The city hosts numerous art exhibitions, music festivals, and cultural performances, attracting artists and enthusiasts from around the world. The Penang State Museum and Art Gallery, located in Georgetown, offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich heritage and contemporary art scene.
#7 Shopping and Entertainment Georgetown offers a diverse shopping experience, catering to every taste. From bustling markets and vibrant night bazaars to modern shopping malls, visitors can find everything from traditional crafts and antiques to fashionable clothing and local delicacies. After sunset, the city’s nightlife comes alive with trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues.
#8 Natural Attractions Penang boasts natural attractions like Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang National Park, Tropical Spice Garden, Penang Hill, Botanical Gardens, and Monkey Beach. These diverse spots offer sandy shores, rainforests, gardens, hilltop views, and secluded beach retreats, providing visitors with a range of options to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
Georgetown, Penang, is an enchanting city that seamlessly combines its rich history, multicultural heritage, and vibrant modernity. Its captivating UNESCO World Heritage status, tantalizing cuisine, and thriving arts scene make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in Malaysia. Immerse yourself in Georgetown’s charm and discover the wonders that await around every corner. So it’s time to plan ahead your trip to Penang now and book your stay here!
dixonthum 