Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

entertainment

movies

end of an era

operations

MBO Cinemas

closing down

After decades of bringing movies to Malaysian audiences, MBO Cinemas has officially announced that it will be shutting down operations permanently.
The announcement was made on 11 March through the company&rsquo;s official social media channels, where the cinema chain shared an emotional farewell message to its loyal patrons.
&ldquo;With heavy hearts, after many incredible years, MBO Cinemas will now be ceasing operations permanently,&rdquo; the statement read.
In a short but poignant line, the company summed up the moment with the words: &ldquo;The show is over.&rdquo;
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The statement also expressed gratitude to moviegoers who had supported the brand throughout its journey, acknowledging the countless memories created inside its cinema halls&mdash;from roaring laughter during blockbuster comedies to the quiet emotional moments during heartfelt scenes.
For many Malaysians, MBO Cinemas had long been part of their regular entertainment routine, making the closure feel like the end of an era.
A Cinema Chain With A Long History
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/830c0c2ea5a6e9c9caf9a8b20ba28e1fcf2b72ce2b34d28094a858ae145582e8" />
MBO Cinemas was once one of the biggest cinema operators in the country. The brand first opened its doors in 1992 at Subang Parade, gradually expanding across Malaysia over the following decades.
By the mid-2010s, the company had grown to 26 cinema outlets nationwide, becoming the third-largest cinema chain in Malaysia behind Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) and TGV Cinemas.
The cinema chain became recognisable for its distinctive red theatre seats and wide range of blockbuster screenings. Its locations were spread across multiple states, allowing moviegoers outside major city centres easier access to cinema experiences.
However, the industry began to face major challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Like many entertainment businesses, cinemas were hit hard by lockdowns and prolonged closures.
During that period, MBO Cinemas was forced to shut down its branches and enter liquidation.
A Short-Lived Comeback
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d3140b409971fc431c088a6dd1d4ffa6fbc6f9097f9ccbabddd850a11ad45cbd" />
Despite the setbacks, the brand made a return to the market in 2021 after Golden Screen Cinemas acquired a majority of its assets. Under new management, the MBO brand was relaunched with several outlets reopening across the country.
At its most recent stage before closure, the chain had been operating eight locations across Selangor, Melaka, Perak and Johor, including cinemas in malls such as:
<ul>
<li>Quayside Mall, Kota Kemuning</li>
<li>Brem Mall, Kepong</li>
<li>Harbour Place Mall, Klang</li>
<li>Melaka Mall</li>
<li>ElementX Mall, Melaka</li>
<li>Taiping Sentral Mall</li>
<li>U Mall, Skudai</li>
<li>Teluk Intan</li>
</ul>
However, the comeback proved to be relatively short-lived, with the brand now ceasing operations less than five years after its revival.
Refund Information For Customers
Alongside the closure announcement, MBO Cinemas also provided contact details for customers seeking refunds or assistance.
Those with refund enquiries have been advised to contact the company via email at customercare@mbocinemas.com.
For other enquiries related to the closure process, the public may reach out to PKF Malaysia, which has been listed as the relevant contact for further matters.
Another Cinema Closure In Malaysia
The closure of MBO Cinemas also comes shortly after another cinema shutdown in the local industry.
Last week, Dadi Cinema announced that it would cease operations at its location in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, with the outlet expected to be taken over by TGV Cinemas.
These developments reflect the broader challenges still facing cinema operators in the post-pandemic era. Shifts in viewing habits, the rise of streaming platforms, and lingering effects from pandemic-era disruptions have all changed the way audiences consume entertainment.
The End Of An Era
For many Malaysians, MBO Cinemas was more than just a place to watch films&mdash;it was where friendships were formed, family outings took place, and blockbuster premieres were experienced on the big screen.
While the cinema chain has now taken its final bow, the memories created inside its theatres will likely remain with audiences who spent years enjoying movies under the MBO banner.
As the company itself put it in its farewell message:
&ldquo;From all of us at MBO Cinemas, thank you for filling our seats &mdash; and our hearts.&rdquo;
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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“The show is over” as one of Malaysia’s long-running cinema chains officially ceases operations nationwide.

e251300ec74b40f23f473a82539e2272a70d492ec946605e5da3f9411cb59c62

End Of An Era: MBO Cinemas Announces Permanent Closure After Decades In Malaysia

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BIllie Eilish UMMY

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Coke Fifa

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UMMY Sienna Spiro

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Pizza hut Meltz 2026

PlayStation 5 emulation is making surprising progress despite the console still being in the middle of its life cycle, with several community projects now capable of booting commercial PS5 games and, in some cases, even reaching early playable gameplay.
The recent breakthroughs have drawn significant attention following reports that Sony plans to stop producing physical PlayStation game discs from 2028. The move has sparked debate over digital ownership and game preservation, with many players concerned about the long-term accessibility of their purchased games. In response, interest in PS5 emulation has accelerated as developers work to preserve access to console titles.
Why PS5 Emulation Is Progressing Faster
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a3024cf755529b109c1a30877b2dd87909a4aa7eb2d7b1005f2e762a835ea447" />
Emulators are software that recreate a console's hardware and operating system, allowing games designed for one platform to run on another, typically a PC.
Traditionally, developing an emulator for a modern console takes many years because of the complexity involved. The PlayStation 4, for example, took years before emulators were capable of running demanding exclusives such as Bloodborne.
The PS5, however, appears to be advancing at a much quicker pace. One reason is that both the PS5 and modern PCs use x86 architecture, making certain aspects of hardware translation easier than with older consoles.
Growing concerns over Sony's reported shift towards an all-digital future have also fuelled renewed interest in game preservation, encouraging more developers to contribute to PS5 emulation projects.
SharpEmu Reaches Key Milestones
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
الأمور تحدث ⚠️ محاكي PS5 emu على PC ! يشغل من الآن لعبة Dreaming Sarah ومن الحصريات يشغل شاشة بدء Demons Souls Remake وجاري تطويره وتحسينه لتشغيل الالعاب مثل ShadPS4 بداية سريعة <a href="https://t.co/XRerLF9oak">pic.twitter.com/XRerLF9oak</a> <a href="https://t.co/NvdLZVCYoQ">pic.twitter.com/NvdLZVCYoQ</a>
&mdash; Khalid . (@Khalid2c7u) <a href="https://x.com/Khalid2c7u/status/2075283632395055506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2026</a></blockquote>

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Among the most prominent projects is SharpEmu, a Windows-based emulator written in C#.
Rather than fully recreating PS5 hardware, SharpEmu functions as a translation layer, allowing PCs to execute processor instructions directly while converting PlayStation-specific system functions into something Windows can process.
The emulator has already achieved several early milestones. Smaller 2D games such as Dreaming Sarah reportedly run successfully, while major PS5 titles including Demon's Souls, Astro Bot, Silent Hill: The Short Message and Superliminal are now capable of booting to varying stages.
Most still stop at loading or start-up screens, but simply getting modern PS5 exclusives to initialise is considered a significant technical achievement at this stage.
KytyPS5 Continues To Improve
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/88f288fff7b507562feffe85ed2b4963d47a0607847b1eb3b93c5fc1e6ae4fdb" />
Another project attracting attention is KytyPS5, which was originally launched as a combined PS4 and PS5 emulator before being abandoned and later revived by developer Nmzik with a renewed focus on PS5.
Recent updates have improved graphics rendering, shader translation, memory management and audio support, allowing several games to progress much further than before.
Silent Hill: The Short Message can now reach its menu, while PowerWash Simulator and Pac-Man World are reportedly playable, although performance and stability remain unknown.
One of the biggest milestones is the successful booting of the PS5 version of Grand Theft Auto V. While the game cannot yet be played, users can access its menus and settings, showing that increasingly complex commercial titles are beginning to function within the emulator.
GTA VI Is Still A Long Way Off
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/27b08a6ac81a5e23a7057be336d92b83f2210b97d66208fd54ea8ec94dc4dcaf" />
The progress has led some players to speculate that these emulators could eventually run Grand Theft Auto VI, which is expected to launch on consoles before arriving on PC.
However, developers and industry observers caution that there is a huge difference between reaching a game's menus and running a demanding open-world title smoothly. Fully playable PS5 emulation for blockbuster games is still likely years away.
Emulation Isn't The Same As Piracy
It's also important to distinguish emulation from piracy.
Creating or using an emulator is generally legal in many countries. However, downloading copyrighted games without owning them or distributing protected PlayStation firmware may infringe copyright laws.
Sony has previously taken legal action against projects that it believes violate its intellectual property, although emulator development itself remains lawful when it avoids using copyrighted code.
Progress Is Accelerating
Although PS5 emulation is still in its early stages, the pace of development has surprised many within the gaming community.
Most commercial games remain unplayable, but projects such as SharpEmu, KytyPS5 and research initiative RPCSX are steadily pushing the technology forward.
Whether driven by technical curiosity, game preservation or concerns over digital ownership, PS5 emulation has rapidly evolved from a niche experiment into one of the most closely watched areas of gaming development.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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PS5 games running on PC? Not quite yet, but developers are getting closer than anyone expected.

99a7354b33f6018655330e7360df78c7fc093b49072d8ae9e854fceae253dea7

PS5 Emulation Is Advancing Faster Than Expected As Developers Make Early Breakthroughs

OpenAI has officially stepped into the consumer hardware market, but its debut product isn't the long-rumoured AI companion device many were anticipating. Instead, the company has unveiled the Codex Micro, a compact mechanical macropad designed specifically for programmers using its AI coding assistant, Codex.
Developed in collaboration with keyboard maker Work Louder, the device is OpenAI's first branded piece of consumer hardware. While it won't replace your everyday keyboard, it acts as a dedicated controller that gives developers quicker access to AI-powered coding tools and workflows.
OpenAI's First Hardware Is Built For AI Coding
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9f00a4bea9c84d00a0b9c2791e8fdb3018f1d6798ef6dd42831e30fd9e5e99d2" />
Rather than creating an all-purpose AI gadget, OpenAI has focused on a niche audience: software developers.
The Codex Micro is a programmable 13-key mechanical macropad featuring a rotary dial, an analogue joystick and RGB lighting. It is designed to streamline interactions with Codex, OpenAI's AI coding assistant, allowing users to perform common tasks with dedicated physical controls instead of navigating menus or typing repeated prompts.
Among its default shortcuts are actions such as reviewing pull requests, debugging code, accepting or rejecting AI-generated suggestions and managing multiple coding sessions simultaneously.
Like most programmable macro keyboards, users can also remap every key to suit their own workflow, making the device useful beyond Codex if desired.
Physical Controls Designed Around AI Workflows
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3a4bac0b47eec5549577673ba7f9f9a90b499ba035f122ec3a2b9e69163945d2" />
One of the Codex Micro's standout features is its six illuminated "Agent Keys", which provide live visual updates on AI coding agents.
Instead of constantly checking the desktop app, users can tell what their AI is doing simply by glancing at the keypad. Different colours indicate different statuses, including:
<ul>
<li>White: Idle</li>
<li>Blue: Processing or "thinking"</li>
<li>Green: Task completed</li>
<li>Amber: Waiting for user input</li>
<li>Red: Error encountered</li>
</ul>
Tapping an Agent Key immediately switches to the corresponding Codex session, while double-tapping brings it into focus.
The rotary dial adjusts Codex's reasoning level, allowing users to choose how much computing power and time the AI spends solving a task. Meanwhile, the joystick can be assigned to navigate coding workflows or other programmable functions.
OpenAI is also including 32 interchangeable keycaps, allowing users to customise shortcuts with different icons and labels.
Compatible With Windows And Mac
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c1ff3e78b9abe30c44083ae30a4387b62f54d8eba55ac73994eb3ce6646391d8" />
The Codex Micro connects via either Bluetooth or USB-C and supports both Windows and macOS.
Buyers can also choose between silent mechanical switches or traditional clicky switches depending on personal preference.
Although the device is clearly designed around Codex, Work Louder's software allows users to create several additional programmable layers, meaning it can double as a productivity controller for other applications.
It Costs Around RM1,200 To Import Into Malaysia
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1f5d721ddd40c8c689a6210b0bdeaa9d8b951a3769b0be88f9a94690e60579d2" />
The Codex Micro is priced at US$230 (around RM950) and is currently available for pre-order through OpenAI's online Supply Co. store.
However, Malaysian buyers should expect to pay considerably more.
Shipping alone adds roughly RM300, pushing the total cost to over RM1,200 before any import duties or taxes are applied. At the time of writing, there is no indication that the keypad will be officially distributed in Malaysia.
Given the price, many online users have questioned whether a dedicated AI keypad offers enough value, especially when programmable macro pads and gaming peripherals capable of similar shortcuts are already available at lower prices.
Not The Jony Ive Device Everyone Has Been Waiting For
The launch has also surprised many because it is not the mysterious AI hardware OpenAI has been developing with former Apple design chief Jony Ive.
That separate project remains under development and is expected to be a portable, screenless AI companion designed to integrate deeply with ChatGPT. Reports suggest it could feature microphones, cameras and sensors to better understand a user's surroundings, although OpenAI has yet to officially reveal the final design.
As a result, the Codex Micro appears to be more of a limited-edition collaboration than the company's flagship hardware vision.
A Small First Step Into Consumer Hardware
OpenAI has described the Codex Micro as a limited-run collaboration with Work Louder, suggesting it is not intended to become a mass-market product.
Instead, it serves as an early glimpse into the company's broader hardware ambitions while offering a specialised accessory for developers already relying heavily on AI-assisted coding.
Whether the Codex Micro justifies its premium price will ultimately depend on how much users value having dedicated physical controls for Codex. For casual users, it may feel unnecessary, but for developers juggling multiple AI coding agents throughout the day, it could become a useful desktop companion.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Thinking of getting one? It's already out of stock, and shipping to Malaysia alone will cost you RM303.80.

7c967d1d8fe3f9a15268162979c029f9252548f3db23c3426e9dbebdf3b589ea

OpenAI Launches Its First Consumer Hardware, But It's Not The AI Gadget Everyone Was Expecting

&nbsp;Residents in Kota Damansara are raising concerns over a proposed data centre development planned near a residential neighbourhood, with many questioning not only the location of the project but also the unusually short period given to submit public objections.
The issue has gained significant attention on social media after residents claimed they were given just seven days to respond to the proposal, despite public consultations for similar developments typically allowing a longer period.
Residents Question Seven-Day Objection Window
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The proposed development came to light after the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) erected a public notice along Jalan Rimba Riang 9/6 in Section 9, Kota Damansara.
The notice states that an application has been submitted involving the surrender and re-alienation of land, along with planning permission for the construction of a commercial data centre on Lot 50900.
According to the notice, members of the public and neighbouring landowners were invited to submit objections between 9 July and 15 July &mdash; a period of just seven days.
The short consultation period immediately drew criticism from residents, who argued that it was insufficient time to understand the proposal, gather supporting information and prepare formal objections.
Several residents also claimed the notice board only appeared a few days before the submission deadline, leaving even less time for the community to respond.
Residents Encounter Problems Submitting Objections
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/47a6812670a64c655cf132915126b3efacd1eb2270477842c37395b242847d44" />
Beyond the limited timeframe, some residents alleged they experienced difficulties attempting to lodge objections online.
Several said the project reference number displayed on the notice board could not be found in the online system, while others claimed the listed contact details were unhelpful when they sought clarification.
Screenshots shared on social media appeared to show unsuccessful searches using the project's reference number, prompting further questions over the transparency of the consultation process.
Many residents have since called on MBPJ to extend the objection period so affected communities have adequate time to review the proposal and submit their concerns.
Concerns Over Building A Data Centre In A Residential Area
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/438a1035b7a114eda7f8e655bf37c379c104be870a0ed9dff1f61f1697bc139b" />
While residents acknowledge the growing importance of data centres in supporting Malaysia's expanding digital economy, many believe the proposed location is unsuitable.
The site is reportedly situated close to homes and a school, raising concerns about its long-term impact on the surrounding community.
Among the issues highlighted by residents are:
<ul>
<li>Increased traffic and heavy vehicle movements during both construction and operation.</li>
<li>Potential noise pollution from equipment that operates around the clock.</li>
<li>Heat generated by large-scale cooling systems.</li>
<li>High electricity and water consumption.</li>
<li>Road safety around nearby residential streets.</li>
<li>Whether such a facility is compatible with an established housing area.</li>
</ul>
Some residents also questioned why the development could not be built in more industrial or less densely populated locations instead.
Assemblyman Submits Formal Objection
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/2053ab009e06d77576591d9e0a857f18fd895a27ff163ad5c76358b56b1d45d0" />
Following complaints from residents and local residents' associations, Kota Damansara assemblyman Muhammad Izuan Ahmad Kasim confirmed that his office had formally submitted a petition objecting to the proposed development before the consultation period ended.
He said his office only became aware of the proposal after residents brought the matter to his attention, adding that they had not been informed beforehand.
Izuan also pledged to obtain further clarification from MBPJ regarding the planning application and approval process before determining the next steps.
On social media, he assured residents that his office would continue representing their concerns and bring objections over developments opposed by the local community to the city council for consideration.
Residents' Associations Also Voice Opposition
In addition to individual objections, a coalition of residents' associations representing several neighbourhoods in Section 9 submitted a formal letter to MBPJ urging the council to reconsider the planning application.
The associations said they were not opposed to technological development itself but stressed that large-scale infrastructure projects should be carefully evaluated when located close to residential communities.
They called for greater transparency throughout the planning process and urged the council to balance economic development with residents' quality of life, environmental sustainability and public safety.
Questions Raised Over Public Consultation Rules
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The seven-day objection period has also sparked discussion over whether it complies with Malaysia's planning regulations.
Under Section 21(6) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1976 (Act 172), adjoining landowners are generally given 21 days to submit objections for developments in areas where no local plan exists after receiving official notice.
Residents have questioned why only seven days were provided in this instance and are seeking clarification from MBPJ on the consultation timeline and the planning process.
For now, residents, local representatives and community groups are awaiting further explanations from the city council as concerns over the proposed data centre continue to grow.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Residents cry foul over the proposed development, questioning the decision to build a data centre within a housing area.

74d336db967bad8e1a6f21cb747a647276cfdd6178fec5c7639cd91b9d7049e5

Kota Damansara Residents Object To Proposed Data Centre Near Homes Over Seven-Day Consultation Period

The Malaysian government has reaffirmed its long-standing policy of not recognising Israel, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stating that any Israeli nationals found in the country will be deported immediately if investigations confirm their presence.
His remarks come amid growing scrutiny surrounding the Network School, a private technology-focused residential community operating in Forest City, Johor, following allegations that Israeli nationals may have entered Malaysia using passports from a second country.
Government Launches Investigation Into Network School
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/378109a2a4dd86d22694bc417c7e3b0d5041b70e7d00bb9bf9759b6a7cd9e9ae" />
Speaking to reporters, Anwar said the matter is being taken seriously, with multiple enforcement and security agencies conducting a thorough investigation.
He stressed that Malaysia would not compromise on issues involving national security or its foreign policy.
"We are investigating the matter, and we will not allow it. If there are Israeli nationals, since we do not recognise Israel, they will be deported immediately," he said.
The Prime Minister added that the relevant ministries and agencies are currently handling the investigation, with Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir expected to provide further clarification on the matter.
Why Is Network School Under Investigation?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/42903708833863d9ed7e4671ca411b1232fb192cb76266cb22dc3476d46546b4" />
The controversy centres on Network School, a private residential and co-working community established in Forest City in 2024 by technology investor and former Coinbase chief technology officer Balaji Srinivasan.
The community markets itself as a destination for "techno-optimists", digital entrepreneurs, engineers, creators and remote workers from around the world.
Members reportedly pay around US$1,500 (approximately RM6,100) per month, which includes accommodation, meals, co-working facilities, gym access and community programmes. The project has also promoted itself as an alternative to Silicon Valley, describing its vision as building a global technology hub outside the United States.
The development recently attracted widespread public attention after allegations surfaced online claiming that Israeli nationals with dual citizenship had entered Malaysia using passports issued by other countries to participate in the programme.
Johor Government Calls For Comprehensive Checks
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/01218e18cf4ad1168d9f76f91a3cee7bfb1708315d322dec80d3b7ab98c84632" />
The Johor state government has since urged the Home Ministry and multiple enforcement agencies to investigate the allegations thoroughly.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said authorities should verify the identities and nationalities of those staying at Network School, including whether any individuals had entered Malaysia using second-country passports.
He also called for investigations into the type of immigration passes being used, the purpose of entry into Malaysia, and whether the activities conducted at the community match the reasons declared upon arrival.
Beyond immigration matters, Onn Hafiz requested that the Higher Education Ministry, Digital Ministry and other regulatory authorities determine whether Network School requires registration or approval under Malaysian law.
He also instructed local authorities to review the project's business operations, land use, accommodation licences and compliance with local regulations, warning that any breaches should be dealt with firmly.
The Johor government said it would not allow the state to be used as a base for activities or movements that could threaten Malaysia's sovereignty or violate existing laws.
Immigration Says Documents Were Valid
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c3854fea3016f86c0d9b51751a2b397d4b0531e7d7b64d300f673e7a98dfe673" />
Amid the public debate, the Immigration Department confirmed that officers had inspected 266 foreign nationals from around 40 countries residing at the Forest City community.
According to Immigration director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban, all individuals inspected were found to possess valid travel and immigration documents.
However, he said investigations are still ongoing to determine whether there has been any misuse of identities, passports, immigration facilities or permit conditions.
It remains unclear whether any Israeli nationals were among those inspected, and authorities have yet to announce the outcome of the investigation.
Malaysia Maintains Its Position On Israeli Nationals
Malaysia does not have diplomatic relations with Israel and generally does not permit holders of Israeli passports to enter the country without special approval.
The current investigation focuses on allegations that some individuals may have entered Malaysia using passports issued by another country while also holding Israeli citizenship.
Anwar reiterated that if investigations confirm the presence of Israeli nationals in violation of Malaysia's policies, they will be deported immediately.
For now, the investigation into Network School remains ongoing, with several federal ministries, enforcement agencies and the Johor state government continuing to examine the allegations before any further action is taken.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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PMX reaffirms the government's stance on Israeli nationals, with investigations currently underway.

c4578fa259103001e59aef56aefb0872a8e025f4d67c74b631d31042c8003b27

Anwar Says Any Israeli Nationals Found In Malaysia Will Be Deported As Forest City Probe Continues

For decades, football fans have been used to a simple half-time routine: 15 minutes for players to rest, managers to make tactical adjustments and broadcasters to analyse the opening 45 minutes. Unlike many American sporting events, football has never been known for elaborate half-time entertainment.
That is about to change.
For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, the 2026 final will feature a Super Bowl-style half-time show, bringing some of the world's biggest music stars to the biggest match in football. The decision also means the traditional 15-minute interval is expected to be extended, marking one of the most significant changes ever made to a World Cup final.
A Very American Tradition Comes To The World Cup 
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Half-time shows have long been a staple of American sport, particularly the NFL's Super Bowl, where performances by global artists often become cultural moments watched by millions around the world.
Football, however, has traditionally kept its focus on the match itself. While major tournaments often feature elaborate opening and closing ceremonies, entertainment has rarely taken place during the interval.
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The closest comparison in football is the UEFA Champions League final, which introduced pre-match performances in recent years. Most recently, rock band Linkin Park headlined the opening ceremony before this season's final, but the performance took place before kick-off rather than during half-time.
FIFA is now taking things a step further by bringing live entertainment directly into the World Cup final itself.
A Star-Studded Line-Up For The Historic Show
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The inaugural FIFA World Cup Final Half-Time Show will be curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and is expected to feature an impressive line-up of international artists.
Among those announced or linked to the performance are Justin Bieber, Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Burna Boy and renowned Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel. Popular children's characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets are also expected to make appearances.
According to FIFA, the performance itself will last around 11 minutes and is being organised in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, an initiative aiming to raise funds to improve access to education and football opportunities for children worldwide.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described education as one of the organisation's key priorities and said the event would help raise both awareness and funding for the global campaign.
Why The Half-Time Break Will Be Longer
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Although the performance is expected to last only around 11 minutes, additional time will be needed to construct and remove the stage inside MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Under the Laws of the Game set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the half-time interval should not exceed 15 minutes except under exceptional circumstances.
However, multiple reports suggest the World Cup final break could last anywhere between 20 and 30 minutes to accommodate the production.
FIFA has yet to officially confirm the final duration, but similar extended intervals have already been seen at recent tournaments.
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During last year's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJfixIE8guQ">FIFA Club World Cup final</a>, also held at MetLife Stadium, half-time lasted around 24 minutes to allow performances by Doja Cat, Tems, J Balvin and other artists. Likewise, the 2024 Copa Am&eacute;rica final saw the interval extended to approximately 26 minutes during Shakira's performance.
Fans Split Over FIFA's Decision
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The move has generated mixed reactions among football supporters.
Many fans welcome the addition of a world-class music performance, arguing that the World Cup final is more than just a football match and deserves a spectacle worthy of one of the world's biggest sporting events.
Others, however, believe extending half-time goes against football's traditions and raises concerns about player welfare, momentum and the integrity of the game.
Critics have also pointed to several other tournament changes introduced during the 2026 World Cup, including hydration breaks and revised officiating procedures, saying the competition is becoming increasingly influenced by American sports entertainment.
Spain To Face Argentina In The World Cup Final
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While attention is turning towards the historic half-time show, the football itself promises to be equally compelling.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will see reigning champions Argentina take on European champions Spain in what is expected to be one of the biggest clashes in recent tournament history.
Argentina secured their place after producing a stunning late comeback against England in the semi-finals. Anthony Gordon had given England the lead before Enzo Fern&aacute;ndez equalised in the 85th minute, with Lautaro Mart&iacute;nez heading home the winner deep into stoppage time.
Both goals were created by Lionel Messi, whose two assists inspired Argentina to a dramatic 2-1 victory and kept their hopes of retaining the World Cup alive.
Now, with a historic half-time show and two of world football's strongest nations meeting on the pitch, the 2026 FIFA World Cup final is shaping up to be one of the most memorable in the tournament's history.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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From hydration breaks to a Super Bowl-style half-time show, the 2026 World Cup is looking very different from what fans are used to.

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