Nabil Luqman

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Social

concert

Asia Tour

NIKI

88rising

liveinMalaysia

BuzzWorldTour

Buzz

Nicole Zefanya

If you've been keeping up with us, you've probably noticed our recent flurry of concert announcements, featuring predominantly Asian artists. While international acts are undoubtedly fantastic, there's something truly special about seeing our homegrown Asian talents making waves on a global scale.
That said, Malaysia is in for another treat as we gear up to welcome back an Asian superstar to our shores. None other than Nicole Zefanya, better known by her stage name NIKI, the 25-year-old Indonesian singer-songwriter, has just unveiled her upcoming world tour.
Set to grace our stages in February next year, NIKI's return promises an unforgettable experience for fans eagerly awaiting her performance.
Who Is NIKI?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a5cd522fa483c99b3813a97b707d58955ce3d617d24e15e93bd576ed4102e6a3" />
For the uninitiated, NIKI, the multifaceted talent hailing from Jakarta, Indonesia, is not your average singer-songwriter and record producer. Renowned for her velvety vocals, enchanting melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics, she has carved her niche in the music industry with a distinctive blend of R&amp;B, pop, and electronic influences.
NIKI's musical journey is a testament to her versatility and creativity, as she fearlessly delves into themes of love, self-discovery, and personal growth. Her seamless fusion of genres creates a unique sonic experience that resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.
Rising to prominence as a member of the acclaimed music collective 88rising, NIKI joined the group in 2017. Since its inception in 2015, 88rising has been a trailblazer in supporting and promoting Asian and Asian American creatives and communities. Since joining the collective, NIKI has released an impressive array of tracks, including the soul-stirring "See You Never" in 2017. With two studio albums under her belt &mdash; "<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/312cHRlzeS4VuD1RHzAGIt?si=1HnAGLALRRehF8rwLJaHpA">MOONCHILD</a>" (2020) and "<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5WR7ksPLp3kqFbDLTYpGfx?si=lJPuSAkoTmCHYI7ZxDffRQ">Nicole</a>" (2022) &mdash; NIKI has firmly established herself as a solo artist to watch, captivating listeners with her soulful performances and innovative soundscapes.
Details Of Her Buzz World Tour 2024-2025 Concert
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f2794eb4d3e663bcf73b5ae5a2e24788380996e1508c071454336a9f6a1a9d6d" />
The Buzz World Tour embarks on its journey in North America this September, followed by a sweep through Europe in October, culminating in a grand finale in Dublin, Ireland, on November 10, 2024. As we transition into 2025, the Asian leg of the tour commences on February 9, with NIKI gracing major cities such as Hong Kong, Manila, Jakarta, Singapore, Taipei, Bangkok, and Malaysia.
For Malaysian fans eager to catch NIKI live, mark your calendars for February 25th and 26th, following the resounding success of her previous show in KL during the Nicole World Tour in 2022.
While details for the Kuala Lumpur concert are yet to be unveiled, including ticket prices, anticipation mounts for the fall release of ticket sales. Keep an eye on NIKI's <a href="https://nikizefanya.com/tour/">official website</a> for updates and RSVP to ensure you're among the first to receive the latest news. Signing up for the RSVP also grants access to a pre-sale code, ensuring you secure your spot at this highly anticipated event.
<img src="https://media.tenor.com/YIo--LSM1DAAAAAM/niki-zefanya-niki.gif" />
New Album Dropping On 9 August
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/616badd88345e2c3892f302faf303690b4d365c1a216ec5abb1a9d1a451158c1" />
As part of the Buzz World Tour, NIKI's highly anticipated album "Buzz" is set to drop on August 9, 2024, courtesy of 88rising, perfectly synchronized with the launch of her upcoming tour. Joining her on stage throughout North America and Europe will be talented singer-songwriters, Allison Ponthier and Amy Allen.
Offering fans a taste of what's to come, NIKI recently unveiled the lead single from her album, titled "Too Much Of A Good Thing." This sneak peek into "Buzz" promises an exciting blend of her signature style and fresh musical explorations.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bREFhK_oyqc?si=OFch_IM6CoPKAGTQ" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
&ldquo;The album is called Buzz because it signifies that something is about to happen. The promise of something new, when it isn&rsquo;t real yet, hangs rich and sweet in the air. That millisecond moment in time, suspended in vast suggestion, where there is every opportunity for a shift in trajectory. Small or seismic. You choose,&rdquo; said NIKI.
Looks like NIKI's got us reaching for our wallets again! With a concert this epic, the only thing left to wonder is: Will our bank accounts recover from the Buzz World Tour buzz? Stay tuned for the details&mdash;this is one show we won't want to miss!
Are you looking forward for her Buzz World Tour 2024-2025? Let us know in the comments!
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Mark your calendars as NIKI will send Malaysians ‘Buzz’-ing! 

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NIKI Announces 2-Day Concert In Malaysia As Part Of Her ‘Buzz World Tour 2024-2025’!

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has announced the introduction of two fully-funded scholarship programmes aimed at empowering underprivileged and high-achieving students to thrive in the nation&rsquo;s rapidly evolving communications and multimedia landscape. The MCMC LEGASI and MCMC CARE scholarships are designed to support the development of critical digital skills aligned with Malaysia&rsquo;s digital transformation goals.
Investing in Malaysia&rsquo;s Digital Talent Pipeline
Both scholarship schemes aim to fast-track the cultivation of expertise in high-demand areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Science, Cybersecurity, the Internet of Things (IoT), Media, and Telecommunications. This aligns with MCMC&rsquo;s strategic vision to strengthen the country&rsquo;s digital capabilities and support a more inclusive, technology-driven economy.
MCMC LEGASI: A Merit-Based Pathway to Global Education and Employment
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ec83164ff5ac958896bf9c5aa9aa94a697c7ccde4eec4b96babdabe3edd49779" />
MCMC LEGASI is a merit-based scholarship targeted at exceptional students pursuing recognised undergraduate programmes, both locally and abroad. This prestigious award covers full tuition fees, living expenses, and includes a guaranteed position with MCMC upon graduation, providing a clear and structured career path in digital policy and regulatory development.
Eligible fields of study under the LEGASI scholarship include:
<ul>
<li>Data Science &amp; Analytics</li>
<li>Internet of Things (IoT)</li>
<li>Information and Network Security, including Cybersecurity</li>
<li>Telecommunications</li>
<li>Broadcasting and Media</li>
<li>Engineering</li>
<li>Policy, Law &amp; Regulatory Management</li>
<li>Urban Planning and Management</li>
<li>Economics &amp; Finance</li>
</ul>
To qualify, applicants must not be over 22 years of age at the point of degree enrolment, and must meet one of the following academic criteria:
<ul>
<li>Minimum 3As in STPM</li>
<li>Minimum 3As in the GCE A-Level programme</li>
<li>ATAR score of at least 85% (Australian Matriculation)</li>
<li>SAT score of at least 1,200 (American Foundation Programme)</li>
<li>CGPA of 3.50 or above (out of 4.00) for Diploma/Foundation/Matriculation</li>
<li>A minimum of 35 points in the International Baccalaureate (IB)</li>
</ul>
MCMC CARE: Supporting Underprivileged Students in Public Universities
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/66276561a522cd40bd3060a55e1b940c4b77587e6971c54505d6f3c1eb11828f" />
The MCMC CARE scholarship, on the other hand, is a needs-based financial aid scheme for underprivileged students studying at local public universities. While it similarly covers full education-related costs, it does not carry a bonding obligation, offering recipients greater flexibility.
Instead, MCMC CARE includes an internship opportunity with MCMC, enabling students to gain valuable industry exposure and hands-on experience in the communications and multimedia sector before entering the job market.
Fields of study eligible for MCMC CARE mirror those of LEGASI, ensuring consistency in the Commission&rsquo;s talent development focus:
<ul>
<li>Data Science &amp; Analytics</li>
<li>Internet of Things (IoT)</li>
<li>Information and Network Security, including Cybersecurity</li>
<li>Telecommunications</li>
<li>Broadcasting and Media</li>
<li>Engineering</li>
<li>Policy, Law &amp; Regulatory Management</li>
<li>Urban Planning and Management</li>
<li>Economics &amp; Finance</li>
</ul>
Commitment to a Digitally Inclusive Malaysia
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7258605a85793fd2a17a3648579807ea49120cc33b3124e78385e0bd95c35f97" />
According to Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din, Executive Chairman of MCMC, the scholarships form part of a broader initiative to ensure no one is left behind in Malaysia&rsquo;s digital future. &ldquo;By supporting deserving students from all walks of life, the Commission is paving the way for a more inclusive and innovation-driven future,&rdquo; he said.
Application Timeline and Further Information
Applications for both MCMC LEGASI and MCMC CARE will open in June 2025, with successful candidates announced in August 2025.
For detailed eligibility requirements and to express your interest, visit the official <a href="https://mcmc.gov.my/academy/en/scholarships-1">MCMC scholarship page.</a> Further updates and announcements will be available through MCMC&rsquo;s official social media platforms.
If you&rsquo;re a university student seeking scholarship opportunities, now is the time to apply. This is a rare and valuable chance&mdash;students are encouraged to make the most of it.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

Currently enrolled in a local university? You may be eligible for a full scholarship!

866c2c795ad4a90327748145550cf5c8b5490ef15247905d74e91f493a94fade

MCMC Introduces Two Fully-Funded Scholarships To Cultivate Malaysia’s Digital Talent

From Friday 23 May to Wednesday 28 May 2025, Kuala Lumpur will host the 46th ASEAN Summit, drawing heads of government, foreign ministers, and an entourage of officials and media. As with every major summit, the capital&rsquo;s road network will be organised around VIP motorcades and tight security perimeters. Below is an extended briefing on how the week will unfold, the exact corridors affected, and what residents can do to stay mobile.
The scale of the operation
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9ea11bfb1b53cf6a3922f93d4a743c6c64a3a045864315beafdbfa26bc387a37" />
Bukit Aman&rsquo;s Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri&nbsp;has committed 789 personnel to the week‑long task. Officers will be supported by:
<ul>
<li>36 escort cars for heads of delegation</li>
<li>313 high‑powered motorcycles for outriders and rolling roadblocks</li>
<li>190 standard patrol bikes to plug gaps and manage diversions</li>
<li>Tow‑trucks on immediate standby, ready to remove any vehicle that blocks an emergency lane or junction</li>
</ul>
Traffic control teams will move into position 30 minutes before every scheduled convoy, shutting slip‑roads and junctions in &ldquo;waves&rdquo; rather than leaving closures in place all day. A full dress rehearsal on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 May will let planners fine‑tune timings before foreign leaders begin arriving on 23 May.
Expressways under rolling closure:
<ul>
<li>North-South Expressway (Sungai Buloh to City Centre)</li>
<li>MEX Expressway</li>
<li>KL-Seremban Expressway</li>
<li>ELITE Expressway (KLIA to Putrajaya)</li>
<li>Guthrie Expressway</li>
<li>NKVE (Subang to Jalan Duta)</li>
</ul>
* Closures are intermittent. When a convoy is clear, lanes reopen until the next VIP movement.
City arteries most affected
<ul>
<li>Jalan Tun Abdul Razak &amp; Jalan Ampang &ndash; primary KLCC approaches</li>
<li>Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Bukit Bintang &amp; Jalan Imbi &ndash; hotel belt and shopping district</li>
<li>Jalan Parlimen &amp; Jalan Kuching &ndash; link to Istana Negara</li>
<li>Jalan Istana &amp; Jalan Damansara &ndash; inbound from KL‑Seremban Expressway</li>
<li>Junctions around Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Perak, Jalan Stonor and Persiaran KLCC will close repeatedly on 26&ndash;27 May when leaders shuttle between hotels and summit halls.</li>
</ul>
Commercial lorries are prohibited from entering the city centre during the dual rush‑hours 06:30&ndash;07:30 and 16:30&ndash;19:30. Enforcement officers warn that any vehicle parked on verges or double‑parked near hotels will be towed immediately.
Day‑by‑day Breakdown 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7118e47960915c071ed954970319dbde0e261df2745a01cf76ffda2814568b07" />
Road Closures and Diversions Schedule. May 23-May 26 (Arrival of foreign delegates).
Routes: KLIA/Subang Air Force to:
<ul>
<li>Lebuh KLIA</li>
<li>Elite Expressway (KLIA-Putrajaya)</li>
<li>NKVE (Subang-Jalan Duta)</li>
<li>Guthrie Expressway</li>
<li>North-South Expressway (Sungai Buloh-City Centre)</li>
<li>MEX Expressway</li>
<li>KL-Seremban Expressway</li>
<li>Lingkaran Putrajaya</li>
<li>Jalan Istana</li>
<li>Jalan Damansara</li>
<li>Jalan Tun Abdul Razak</li>
<li>Jalan Ampang</li>
<li>Jalan Sultan Ismail</li>
<li>Jalan Bukit Bintang</li>
<li>Jalan Imbi</li>
<li>Jalan Parlimen</li>
<li>Jalan Kuching</li>
</ul>
May 26
<ul>
<li>From hotels to KLCC: 8am until arrivals are completed</li>
<li>From KLCC to hotels: 5.30pm until departure to hotels is completed</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Ampang / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Sultan Ismail / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan Pinang</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Jalan Kia Peng</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Persiaran KLCC</li>
</ul>
May 27
8am-10.30am (from hotels to KLCC)
<ul>
<li>Junction of Jalan Ampang / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Sultan Ismail / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan Pinang</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Jalan Kia Peng</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Persiaran KLCC</li>
</ul>
11.45am-1pm (KLCC to Istana Negara)
<ul>
<li>Along Jalan Tun Razak</li>
<li>Along Jalan Mahameru</li>
<li>Along Jalan Sultan Abdul Halim</li>
</ul>
1.45pm-3pm (Istana Negara-KLCC)
<ul>
<li>Along Jalan Parlimen/Jalan Kuching</li>
<li>Along Jalan Sultan Ismail</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Sultan Ismail / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan P. Ramlee</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Perak / Jalan Pinang</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Jalan Kia Peng</li>
<li>Junction of Jalan Stonor / Persiaran KLCC</li>
</ul>
May 28&nbsp;(8am onwards, from hotels to KLIA/Subang Air Force Base)
<ul>
<li>Lebuh KLIA</li>
<li>Elite Expressway (KLIA-Putrajaya)</li>
<li>NKVE (Subang-Jalan Duta)</li>
<li>Guthrie Expressway</li>
<li>North-South Expressway (Sungai Buloh-City Centre)</li>
<li>MEX Expressway</li>
<li>KL-Seremban Expressway</li>
<li>Lingkaran Putrajaya</li>
<li>Jalan Istana</li>
<li>Jalan Damansara</li>
<li>Jalan Tun Abdul Razak</li>
<li>Jalan Ampang</li>
<li>Jalan Sultan Ismail</li>
<li>Jalan Bukit Bintang</li>
<li>Jalan Imbi</li>
<li>Jalan Parlimen</li>
</ul>
Public transport Is Your Best Friend 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d358d5450eec282d4c692bd248e0477e3045c5ae7d8461e2dbe38b307e168fb3" />
Rapid KL confirms that LRT, MRT, Monorail and BRT services will run their normal weekday frequencies, with standby trains if platforms crowd. KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Ampang Park, Masjid Jamek and KL Sentral stations place commuters within a short walk of offices while sidestepping road closures.
Tip: use the MRT Putrajaya Line for journeys parallel to the ELITE and MEX corridors; stations such as Cyberjaya City Centre and Putrajaya Sentral will be unaffected by summit traffic.
71 Schools Move To Lessons Online
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3c00ea50ccc62912538046d89eb98d83da7bc05a7f4f360a4a920170e5689eb6" />
The Education Ministry has announced that 71 schools across Kuala Lumpur and Selangor will switch to home‑based learning (PdPR) from 26 to 28 May 2025 to coincide with the 46th ASEAN Summit.
In a <a href="https://www.moe.gov.my/storage/files/shares/Kenyataan%20Media/KM2025/KM%20KPM%20Beri%20Kebenaran%20Kepada%2071%20Buah%20Sekolah%20Di%20Kuala%20Lumpur%20%26%20Selangor%20Laksana%20PDPR%20Bersempena%20Penganjuran%20Asean%2C%20Pastikan%20Pembelajaran%20%26%20Kesejahteraan%20Terpelihara.pdf">statement</a>, the ministry said the schools were selected because anticipated road blocks and strict security cordons could make it difficult for pupils and staff to reach their campuses. The short‑term move to PdPR is intended to keep teaching on track throughout the summit.
Parents, guardians, teachers and students are urged to monitor their school&rsquo;s official channels for detailed timetables and log‑in instructions. Drawing on the remote‑learning practices refined during the COVID‑19 years, the ministry is confident that classes can proceed smoothly while safeguarding everyone&rsquo;s welfare.
The summit will bring foreign dignitaries to the capital, triggering extensive security measures and traffic controls in and around Kuala Lumpur.
Below is the full list of affected schools:
<ol>
<li>SK Lembah Subang</li>
<li>SK Assunta (Satu)</li>
<li>SK (L) Bukit Bintang</li>
<li>SK Methodist, PJ</li>
<li>SK Jalan Selangor (Satu)</li>
<li>SK 2 Jalan Selangor</li>
<li>SK Satu Sultan Alam Shah</li>
<li>SK 2 Sultan Alam Shah</li>
<li>SK Sungei Way</li>
<li>SJK(T) Vivekananda</li>
<li>SMK Sri Utama</li>
<li>SMK Lembah Subang</li>
<li>SMK Assunta</li>
<li>SMK (L) Bukit Bintang</li>
<li>SMK Katholik</li>
<li>SMK La Salle, PJ</li>
<li>SMK Sultan Abdul Samad</li>
<li>SMK (P) Tmn Petaling</li>
<li>SK TUDM Subang</li>
<li>SK TTDI Jaya</li>
<li>SK Bukit Jelutong</li>
<li>SMK TTDI Jaya</li>
<li>SMK Shah Alam</li>
<li>SMK Bukit Jelutong</li>
<li>SK Cyberjaya</li>
<li>SK Taman Putra Perdana</li>
<li>SK Taman Putra Perdana 2</li>
<li>SJK (C) Union</li>
<li>SMK Cyberjaya</li>
<li>SMK Putra Perdana</li>
<li>SMK Convent Bukit Nanas</li>
<li>SMK Puteri Wilayah</li>
<li>SMK Padang Tembak</li>
<li>SMK Puteri Ampang</li>
<li>SMK Seri Ampang</li>
<li>SMK Puteri Titiwangsa</li>
<li>SMK Seri Titiwangsa</li>
<li>St John's Institution</li>
<li>SK Convent 1 dan 2 Bukit Nanas</li>
<li>SK St John 1</li>
<li>SJKC Nan Kai</li>
<li>SK Kg Bharu</li>
<li>SK Pendidikan Khas Kg Bharu</li>
<li>SJKT Jalan Fletcher</li>
<li>SK Jalan Kuantan 2</li>
<li>SK Padang Tembak 1</li>
<li>SK Padang Tembak 2</li>
<li>SK Polis Depot</li>
<li>SK Jalan Gurney 1</li>
<li>SK Jalan Gurney 2</li>
<li>SK Jalan Raja Muda</li>
<li>SJKC Lai Meng</li>
<li>SMK Maxwell</li>
<li>SMK Kiaramas</li>
<li>SJKT Appar</li>
<li>SJKC Chung Kwok</li>
<li>SK (L) Jalan Batu</li>
<li>SK(P) Jln Batu Sentul</li>
<li>SK Pendidikan Khas Jln Batu</li>
<li>SK Pendidikan Khas Jalan Peel, Taman Maluri</li>
<li>SK Kiaramas</li>
<li>SMK (P) Bandaraya</li>
<li>SMK (P) Jalan Pudu</li>
<li>SMK (P) Methodist Kl</li>
<li>SJKC Kuen Cheng 1</li>
<li>SK Jalan Hang Tuah</li>
<li>SK (P) Pudu</li>
<li>SJKC Kung Min</li>
<li>SK Jalan Pasar</li>
<li>SK Dato Abu Bakar</li>
<li>SK Sultan Hishamuddin Alam</li>
</ol>
Looking back and looking ahead
Malaysia last held an in‑person ASEAN Summit in 2015. Back then, roadblocks annoyed some drivers but kept the VIP convoys safe. Police are using that same plan again, now helped by live traffic data and lessons learned during the pandemic. By Wednesday night, 28 May, the motorcades will be gone and Kuala Lumpur drivers can use their usual routes again.
Until then, stay patient. A bit of forward planning&mdash;especially using trains&mdash;will let the city welcome its guests without trapping locals in jams.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

With 71 schools ordered to move online, brace yourself for knotty summit week traffic.

709934614331b0532abecc3519d5deba204f10ed2f67ec5b92ae583de89d2a18

ASEAN Summit Road Closures: What Klang Valley Residents Need To Know

Anyone who travels with a Malay Bin, a Chinese double name, or an Indian A/L prefix knows the peril of online forms built for Western &ldquo;first name / last name&rdquo; conventions. If a single word is misplaced, the boarding system flags a mismatch, frontline staff must edit the ticket by hand, and passengers sometimes miss their flight. After years of counter complaints, Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia have quietly rebuilt their booking pages to recognise the naming patterns most common across Southeast Asia.
The timing is deliberate. Both carriers are leaning hard into regional growth: AirAsia has restored almost 100 per cent of its pre‑pandemic network, and Malaysia Airlines has just announced new codeshares into Indochina. More passengers from non‑Western naming traditions means a higher risk of typos&mdash;unless the form is fool‑proof.
How Each Airline Now Reads Your Passport 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3d08837956174ac495a085f9359430ed3185bfda3016fd71d635cf5ea8f00e5c" />
Malaysia Airlines still presents two fields, labelled &ldquo;First &amp; Middle Name&rdquo; and &ldquo;Last Name / Surname&rdquo;, but the airline now directs passengers to copy the machine‑readable zone (MRZ)&mdash;the two lines of capital letters at the foot of the passport photo‑page&mdash;exactly as printed. The revised help page comes with half a dozen illustrated examples:
<ul>
<li>Malay names that include Bin, Binti or Anak: those words move into the surname box.</li>
<li>Chinese and Vietnamese names: the family name, which often appears first on the passport, belongs in the surname field even if it looks &ldquo;out of order&rdquo; to English eyes.</li>
<li>Double‑barrelled Indian names: place every component that follows the father&rsquo;s name into the given‑name box, provided the MRZ clusters them together.</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7238d188cce6d55fbcb8fcba0f5efaf54bb09ef847c7abef622eb6b4308be91d" />
AirAsia adopts nearly identical logic, relabelling its boxes &ldquo;Given Name&rdquo; and &ldquo;Family Name / Surname&rdquo;. The low‑cost carrier adds one crucial note for Malaysian Indians: the prefixes A/L (anak lelaki) and A/P (anak perempuan) are no longer required in either field because they do not appear in the MRZ.
Both airlines stress that spacing and capital letters are less important than reproducing the string of letters in the correct sequence. A perfect match means the electronic ticket will align with immigration databases worldwide, removing the need for manual overrides.
Two Worked Examples
Passport line 1: P&lt;MYSVINCENT&lt;TAN&lt;MING&lt;BAN Ticket entry: Surname/Family: TAN&emsp;|&emsp;Given/First &amp; Middle: MINGBANVINCENT
Passport line 2: P&lt;MYS&nbsp;MOHD&lt;ALI&lt;AHMAD&lt;BIN&lt;MOHD&lt;ABU Ticket entry: Surname/Family: BINMOHDABU&emsp;|&emsp;Given/First &amp; Middle: MOHDALIAHMAD
The key is to lift the characters exactly as they appear, ignoring the visual order of names on the biographical page.
What About Bookings Already Made?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/93886d0dccd7e9fa12feacd93a355e7d21cb1e735f81c60aae347fd87570f961" />
Malaysia Airlines confirms that the fresh rules are forward‑looking only: travellers with tickets issued under the old format can fly as planned. AirAsia echoes that reassurance. Should a legacy booking need a voluntary date change, the name field will update automatically in the new style once the ticket is re‑issued.
Wider Benefits: Fewer Queues, Lower Costs
Airline insiders say name mismatches generate thousands of manual corrections each month, tying up call‑centre agents and check‑in counters. Each fix also costs the carrier a small fee because the booking must be re‑opened in a global distribution system. By training passengers to mirror the MRZ, Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia expect fewer errors, shorter queues, and a noticeable saving on backend costs.
The move has earned quiet praise from travel agents who specialise in multi‑city itineraries. &ldquo;We spend an inordinate amount of time educating clients about name order,&rdquo; says Kuala Lumpur‑based consultant Elaine Tew. &ldquo;Having the airlines spell it out with pictures is a big win for everyone.&rdquo;
Practical Tips Before You Click &ldquo;Buy&rdquo;
<ol>
<li>Keep your passport open beside the keyboard and read from the MRZ, not the printed name block.</li>
<li>Ignore punctuation: slashes, commas and apostrophes have no place in the entry fields.</li>
<li>Check every letter before you pay; once the ticket is issued, name edits can still attract fees.</li>
<li>Travelling as a family? Copy each child&rsquo;s MRZ as well&mdash;no two passports are formatted exactly alike.</li>
</ol>
Looking Ahead
With their revised name policies, Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia have addressed one of the most persistent friction points in regional travel. The next frontier, both carriers hint, is to embed the same logic in their mobile apps and self‑service kiosks. Until then, the humble MRZ remains the traveller&rsquo;s best friend: follow its all‑caps guidance, and your next journey should begin with a wave at the e‑gate rather than an apology at the check‑in desk.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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New guidelines finally take the guess work out of Southeast Asian names.

2f7307b91bd881c592ef4d783561f9f0c1a191125020474738edd8e57bc4e3c8

Malaysia Airlines And AirAsia Overhaul Name‑Entry Rules To End Booking Confusion

Malaysia&rsquo;s Health Ministry has assured the public that the country&rsquo;s Covid-19 situation remains under control, even as neighbouring countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan record significant spikes in new infections.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad confirmed that Malaysia is averaging around 600 cases a week, a figure that remains well below the national alert threshold. Notably, no Covid-19-related deaths have been reported in Malaysia so far in 2025.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d3b0f26a514bd3e1a0d439764e2f0a076810ae675e936c597afe5b8b2326d99e" />
From January to 10 May, Malaysia recorded a cumulative 11,727 Covid-19 cases, with the highest numbers logged at the beginning of the year. According to the Health Ministry&rsquo;s Disease Control Division, the country reported 960 cases in the first epidemiological week (EW1) of 2025, followed by 1,229 cases in both EW2 and EW3. Since then, the trend has seen a continuous decline, with only 210 cases reported in EW15. Over the last four weeks (EW16 to EW19), the weekly average has stabilised around 600 cases.
The National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre (CPRC) continues to carry out ongoing risk assessments to ensure Malaysia is prepared for any potential developments. The ministry has reiterated that current figures remain safely below the warning threshold and that all appropriate control measures are in place.
Rising Cases in Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bf5c9ec66d022ad03d4280fb0b2ead1fb079c83750e28cd6ee666abf297d7b24" />
In contrast, countries across the region are witnessing renewed surges. Thailand recorded 16,607 new cases and six deaths between 4 and 10 May, while Singapore saw an increase from 11,100 to 14,200 cases during the week of 27 April to 3 May, with 133 hospitalisations reported. Taiwan, meanwhile, reported 10,000 new cases during the week of 4 to 10 May, including six deaths and 34 severe cases.
Experts believe that the rise in regional cases can be attributed to factors such as waning immunity, higher rates of travel, and reduced levels of testing. Despite this, the Health Ministry stressed that the domestic situation remains under control and that the public should not be alarmed.
No More Quarantine, But Health Measures Still Encouraged
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8d317a8efc7b4fe1aaf481045a8555e9bc5564cf749c3fc613d85c4d0e895699" />
Although Covid-19 continues to be classified as a notifiable infectious disease under Malaysia&rsquo;s Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342), the country has shifted away from pandemic-era emergency measures.
On 1 May 2025, the government officially revoked the declaration that had classified all states and federal territories as infected local areas. This marked a major policy shift, more than five years after the initial measures were introduced.
Individuals who test positive for Covid-19 are no longer required to undergo quarantine or report their cases through the MySejahtera app. However, health authorities still advise the public to practise self-preventive behaviours, such as seeking prompt medical treatment if symptomatic, protecting vulnerable groups, and wearing face masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
Guidelines for Those Who Test Positive
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b77aee2b0ecb285b2de8a3e754cc24c0b00f64db0bb221c21944eebb966df27d" />
While most infections today are less severe than in previous waves&mdash;largely due to vaccinations and acquired immunity&mdash;public health specialists still recommend vigilance. Professor Dr Sharifa Wan Ezat Puteh of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) noted that many new cases now resemble upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) with mild symptoms. However, she warned that individuals with weakened immune systems, particularly the elderly, may require antiviral medication and medical supervision.
According to the Health Ministry&rsquo;s clinical guidelines, Covid-19 patients categorised under stages 2 and 3 are eligible for treatment with the antiviral Paxlovid. Antigen rapid test kits remain available at pharmacies, and self-testing is still encouraged for anyone experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms.
Former Malaysian Association of Public Health Physicians president Datuk Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar emphasised that although testing and isolation are no longer mandatory, maintaining basic health precautions is still prudent, especially in healthcare settings.
Monitoring Systems and Public Responsibility
The Health Ministry continues to rely on both formal and informal surveillance systems, including e-Notification reporting by healthcare providers and a &ldquo;rumour surveillance&rdquo; mechanism that tracks unofficial reports from the public, media, and other sources. These systems help facilitate early detection and swift responses to emerging clusters or outbreaks.
In line with the government&rsquo;s Madani values of wellbeing and inclusivity, the ministry has pledged to provide timely updates on any public health risks.
The public is strongly encouraged to remain cautious, prioritise personal health, and take proactive steps to protect themselves and those around them. High-risk individuals, including the elderly and those with chronic conditions, are advised to keep their vaccinations up to date to minimise the risk of severe complications.
For the latest updates and guidance, the public may visit the Health Ministry&rsquo;s official website at <a href="http://www.moh.gov.my">www.moh.gov.my</a>.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Domestic cases dip while the region grapples with fresh spikes.

6419fc096c26646aee87b07fada23d39534703115b22849b236229ec0357c6dd

Malaysia Keeps Covid-19 Situation In Check As Regional Cases Surge

Malaysian badminton fans had every reason to celebrate after a spectacular Sunday at Bangkok&rsquo;s Nimibutr Stadium, where the nation&rsquo;s top doubles pairs each clinched gold and walked away with significant prize money. The dynamic men&rsquo;s duo Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and the formidable women&rsquo;s pairing Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah secured their titles at the TOYOTA Thailand Open 2025, a Super 500 event, claiming US$37,525 (~ RM161,191) each. Thanks to Malaysia&rsquo;s tax-free policy on sporting prizes and the Badminton Association of Malaysia&rsquo;s (BAM) practice of not taking a levy, the entire sum remains with the players.
Historic Triumph for Pearly-Thinaah: Silencing Critics with Glory
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f9bc26ac8ecf459bbe4ca5210e60d28c00adda342f5b36813c880def6dedab62" />
When Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah closed out a composed 21‑16, 21‑17 win over South Korea&rsquo;s Jeong Na‑eun and Lee Yeon‑woo, they became the first Malaysian women ever to lift the Thailand Open women&rsquo;s doubles trophy since the event began in 1984. The triumph adds to a roll‑call that already includes the Swiss Open 2021, French Open 2022 and Hong Kong Open 2024, confirming the world No. 4 pair as serial big‑stage performers.
Their build‑up had been clouded by whispers that they might quit the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) to turn professional, plus sniping over a renegotiated salary deal. Sunday&rsquo;s performance was an emphatic answer: cool heads, relentless defence and a willingness to dictate the front court.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve not had the smoothest start to the year, but we kept faith in each other,&rdquo; Thinaah told the BWF. &ldquo;This win is proof that we&rsquo;re progressing, even if the outside noise says otherwise.&rdquo;
Guided courtside by coach Rosman Razak, the pair seized the initiative early in both games, varying pace and angles to blunt the Koreans&rsquo; flat drives. Even a late second‑game surge from Jeong and Lee was calmly snuffed out.
Celebrations were necessarily brief; the duo boarded the late flight to Kuala Lumpur that evening. On Tuesday they open their Malaysia Masters campaign against Hong Kong&rsquo;s Fan Ka Yan and Yau Mau Ying&mdash;an unheard‑of pairing but one the Malaysians refuse to underestimate. &ldquo;We start from zero again,&rdquo; Pearly insisted. The home crowd will expect nothing less than another deep run, especially with Olympic qualification points up for grabs and contract negotiations still simmering.
Aaron-Wooi Yik End 15-Year Men&rsquo;s Doubles Title Drought
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/478d0786e8e61a99463d16053ff17162b538647285b22007d45d050a7abbc601" />
If the women delivered clinical mastery, the men supplied pure theatre. Olympic bronze‑medallists Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik were pushed to the brink by Denmark&rsquo;s unseeded youngsters William Kryger Boe and Christian Faust Kjaer, finally prevailing 20‑22, 21‑17, 21‑12 after 72 punishing minutes. The victory ends Malaysia&rsquo;s 15‑year wait for a men&rsquo;s doubles title here&mdash;the last being Chan Peng Soon and Lim Khim Wah in 2009.
Curiously, large sections of the Thai crowd roared for the Danes, a reaction to Aaron‑Wooi Yik having bundled out local favourites Kittinupong Kedren and Dechapol Puavaranukroh in the semi‑finals. The Malaysians responded with steely resolve, surviving a first‑game loss marked by breathtaking 40‑plus‑shot rallies, then tightening their defensive blocks to turn the tide.
&ldquo;Today we&rsquo;re champions; tomorrow we&rsquo;re back to square one,&rdquo; Aaron commented, already resetting focus for Kuala Lumpur. &ldquo;We need to prove this form at the Malaysia Masters.&rdquo;
The pair credited newfound aggression to the influence of their recently appointed coach, former Indonesian great Hendra Setiawan. &ldquo;We wanted to show the new coach what we&rsquo;re capable of,&rdquo; Wooi Yik noted. The confirmation could not be clearer: alongside last month&rsquo;s Asian Championships gold, this success suggests the partnership has rediscovered the spark that earned Olympic bronze in Tokyo.
Prize Money and Momentum: A Winning Formula for Malaysia
Both pairs will return home to prepare for the upcoming PERODUA Malaysia Masters 2025, scheduled to take place from 20 to 25 May at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil. This home tournament presents another crucial Super 500 event where the Malaysian players are expected to perform strongly, buoyed by recent successes.
The US$37,525 (~ RM161,191) prize for each pair represents not just a financial reward but also a confidence boost and important ranking points. Malaysia&rsquo;s tax exemption on sporting earnings means these winnings go entirely to the players, unlike in some countries where cuts or taxes diminish the haul. Beyond the monetary gain, the victories signal growing momentum as the badminton calendar heats up, with the 2024 Paris Olympic cycle concluded and the qualification process for Los Angeles 2028 already underway.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the Malaysia Masters and Beyond
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c8d7f2d2ad3bcd88bf983434b09a57d4cb584126fbc2fc4e8c502fa6ecba2b89" />
While the Thailand Open triumphs have provided a significant lift, both pairs remain grounded and focused on the challenges ahead. Pearly-Thinaah acknowledged that celebrations will be brief as they return immediately to training, with the Malaysia Masters around the corner and more competitive pressure looming.
For Aaron and Wooi Yik, the mission is clear: maintain their form, protect their rankings, and continue to deliver on big stages. With BAM navigating coaching reshuffles and contract negotiations, the players&rsquo; unity and performance under pressure will be vital for Malaysia&rsquo;s badminton ambitions.
As Malaysia departs Thailand with double gold, the rewards extend beyond trophies and prize money. These wins enrich the nation&rsquo;s sporting pride, boost player confidence, and signal a promising trajectory towards future tournaments and the ultimate Olympic dream.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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With victories secured by both doubles pairings, attention now shifts to the PERODUA Malaysia Masters. 

NIKI Announces 2-Day Concert In Malaysia As Part Of Her ‘Buzz World Tour 2024-2025’!

Mark your calendars as NIKI will send Malaysians ‘Buzz’-ing!

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