Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

holiday

banking

easy

PayNet

overseas

expansion

Duitnow QR

crossborder

Malaysians travelling to mainland China, Hong Kong, South Korea, the Philippines and Laos can now make QR payments at participating merchants using supported Malaysian mobile banking apps. The new service, launched by Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) through Ant International&rsquo;s Alipay+ platform, means travellers can pay directly through their existing banking app without downloading another application or signing up for an Alipay+ account.
At launch, the service is available through Maybank, CIMB and Hong Leong Bank, while Bank Islam is expected to join soon. PayNet says the service will be expanded progressively to more overseas destinations and may also be adopted by other participating banks and e-wallet providers.
How to Make Overseas DuitNow QR Payments
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/30170fa6e415fd999a95e15491af4230ba9c3ccc927be721add18b9ef64031b6" />
The payment process is intended to be as straightforward as using DuitNow QR at home. At a participating business displaying the Alipay+ logo, customers open the QR payment function in their Malaysian banking app and scan the merchant&rsquo;s QR code. They can then review the transaction details and confirm the payment within the same app.
Travellers do not need to download a separate app or create an Alipay+ account. However, the service currently works by customers scanning the merchant&rsquo;s QR code; it does not support the reverse arrangement in which a merchant scans a QR code displayed on the customer&rsquo;s phone. Users should check that their bank supports the feature and look for the Alipay+ logo before attempting to pay.
PayNet Extends Its Partnership with Alipay+
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9de99645e04606afb9b28a599a7a1d7aa6b40ba995b7ded0d878e955315234cd" />
The launch builds on an existing partnership between PayNet and Ant International. Since November 2023, travellers using supported Alipay+ partner wallets have been able to pay at DuitNow QR merchants in Malaysia. That arrangement has helped local businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises, accept payments from international visitors using participating overseas wallets.
The new outbound service extends the connection in the other direction, enabling customers of participating Malaysian banks to pay at Alipay+-supported merchants abroad. Rather than requiring travellers to learn a new payment system or register for another digital wallet, the feature uses the banking apps they already have.
PayNet chief executive officer Praveen Rajan said cross-border payments should feel as familiar as paying at home. He added that collaboration between financial institutions and international payment partners can extend Malaysia&rsquo;s national payment infrastructure beyond its borders, make spending across borders easier and strengthen the country&rsquo;s economic links with the region.
The initiative also aligns with Bank Negara Malaysia&rsquo;s broader vision for cross-border payments that are faster, more efficient and inclusive.
Cross-Border QR Payments Continue to Grow
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2a9c025e437b8b59c5c1d4c273be1ee3f5c1d15506c38c1f81a8cd26421b9a70" />
The expansion comes amid a sharp rise in cross-border payment activity. PayNet recorded nearly 30 million cross-border transactions in 2025, approximately 150% more than in 2024. Transactions linked to mainland China accounted for much of that growth, according to the company.
Alipay+ connects more than two billion user accounts through over 50 international payment partners, with more than 150 million merchants across over 210 markets, according to Ant International. The network gives connected payment services a wider reach, although the new DuitNow QR feature is only available at participating merchants in the five destinations announced at launch.
DuitNow QR is already interoperable with payment schemes in Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and Cambodia, allowing participating users to make cross-border payments in those markets. The latest Alipay+ launch is a separate expansion that brings outbound access through supported Malaysian banking apps to the five newly announced destinations.
PayNet will continue working with financial institutions and regional partners to bring the service to more apps and markets. Other PayNet-participating banks and e-wallet providers can also adopt the outbound QR capability, potentially allowing more Malaysians to make overseas payments through services they already use.
For travellers, the main benefit is convenience: in supported destinations, eligible users can pay by scanning a participating merchant&rsquo;s QR code through their Malaysian banking app. Before travelling, customers should confirm availability with their bank and remember that acceptance depends on the merchant displaying the Alipay+ logo.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Cashless travel just got easier for Malaysians.

409518d772e9cbd0393d4e339807d6b18ab08d18b18719241077579bfd085722

Malaysians Can Now Use DuitNow QR To Pay In Five Overseas Destinations

1ea527f604389ee9cf80fa41d8d4c4e386443fa6485b6a52ce4d8e2b685401bf

Mybox pizza hut

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KFC Treats 2

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Cornetto

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AXE MLBB

Sir Patrick Stewart, the acclaimed British actor whose commanding performances made him a defining figure in both classical theatre and modern popular culture, has died at the age of 86.
Best known to millions as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men films, Stewart died at his home in Los Angeles on Wednesday, 28 October 2026. A statement shared through his official social media accounts said he passed away in the care of his wife, singer-songwriter Sunny Ozell, following a brief illness involving Alzheimer&rsquo;s disease and Lewy body dementia.
His death marks the end of a career spanning more than six decades across theatre, television and blockbuster cinema.
From a difficult childhood to the theatre
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bc91417247d9b5c0581849e5a491fc2750936ba43a22fcf925dc5e28d63dfe16" />
Born on 13 July 1940 in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, Stewart grew up in a working-class family. His father, Alfred, served in the British Army during the Second World War before working as a labourer, while his mother, Gladys, was employed in a textile factory.
Stewart later spoke openly about the poverty and domestic violence he experienced during childhood. He recalled that his father, who struggled with the effects of the war, physically abused his mother, and that he would sometimes place himself between his parents in an attempt to protect her.
Acting became an escape from those difficult circumstances. At the age of 12, a teacher introduced him to Shakespeare through a school production of The Merchant of Venice, sparking an interest that would shape his career. After briefly working as a junior reporter, Stewart pursued formal training at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and began his professional acting career in 1959.
He joined the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1966, spending around 14 years with the respected theatre company. His stage work established him as a respected performer, while television dramas such as I, Claudius and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy broadened his profile.
Becoming an icon as Captain Jean-Luc Picard
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2ec7a55b18b9ae3dd8bf4f188b6e019ca331de3909ddb4f8451298f1eaacc9fc" />
Stewart&rsquo;s international breakthrough came in 1987, when he was cast as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Despite his theatre experience, he was relatively unknown to American television audiences.
The casting was not an obvious choice, and Stewart reportedly expected the production to last only a year. However, the series went on to run for seven seasons, from 1987 to 1994, and became one of the most celebrated entries in the Star Trek franchise.
As captain of the USS Enterprise, Picard was thoughtful, diplomatic and guided by reason. Stewart&rsquo;s theatrical training gave the character distinctive authority and depth. Lines such as &ldquo;Make it so&rdquo; became closely associated with the role.
Stewart reprised Picard in four Star Trek feature films and later returned to the character in the television series Star Trek: Picard, which premiered in 2020. Across 176 episodes of The Next Generation alone, his portrayal helped shape generations of viewers&rsquo; understanding of the franchise.
Professor X made him a superhero film favourite
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/91ec6372157715bd095c0c17e7ba17b34e4529457c5d5c01ec2e88534154829b" />
In 2000, Stewart took on another career-defining role as Professor Charles Xavier in the first X-Men film. The character, commonly known as Professor X, is a powerful telepath who leads a school for young mutants and advocates peaceful coexistence between mutants and humans.
Initially hesitant to take on another fantasy role, Stewart nevertheless helped establish X-Men as a major force in superhero cinema.
He returned for several instalments, including X2, X-Men: The Last Stand and Logan. His performance in Logan (2017), which offered a more sombre portrayal of the character, was particularly praised. He also appeared as an alternate-universe version of Professor X in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022).
His on-screen relationship with Sir Ian McKellen, who played Magneto, became a memorable feature of the franchise. The two had known each other through theatre, and McKellen later recalled advising Stewart to think carefully before leaving the British stage for Star Trek.
Marvel Studios paid tribute following Stewart&rsquo;s death, remembering him for bringing composure, wisdom and humanity to Professor X. The studio also acknowledged his contribution to the franchise over more than 25 years.
A celebrated career and lasting legacy
Away from screen roles, Stewart remained committed to theatre, performing works by Shakespeare, Henrik Ibsen, Arthur Miller, Harold Pinter and Samuel Beckett in Stratford-upon-Avon, London and Broadway.
His achievements were recognised with major industry honours, including Olivier Awards and a Grammy Award for his narration of Peter and the Wolf. In 2010, Queen Elizabeth II knighted him for his services to drama and the performing arts.
Drawing on his childhood experiences, Stewart supported Refuge, a British charity assisting women and children affected by domestic violence. He also shared his personal story in his 2023 memoir, Making It So.
He is survived by his wife, Sunny Ozell, and his two children. For theatre audiences, Star Trek fans and generations who grew up watching the X-Men films, Stewart leaves behind a body of work that connected classical performance with modern entertainment.
Whether commanding the Enterprise or guiding young mutants as Professor X, he brought intelligence, dignity and humanity to his roles &mdash; a legacy that will continue to resonate long after his final performance.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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A legendary talent, an unforgettable legacy. Rest in peace, Sir Patrick Stewart.

ade5c2104ebfe296f33bfa00f38b862146c202172bd93c38faa4cedb6518d105

Sir Patrick Stewart, Legendary Star Trek and X-Men Actor, Dies at 86

Google has unveiled Gemini 4 Carbon, a new frontier artificial intelligence model designed to identify software vulnerabilities, assess whether they can be exploited and help developers produce security fixes. The company describes it as its strongest model to date, with particular strengths in cybersecurity, coding and long-running autonomous tasks.
Announced on 28 October, Carbon arrives just two weeks after Google released Gemini 4 Argon, highlighting the accelerating competition between major AI developers. However, access will initially be restricted to selected cybersecurity defenders, with no confirmed date for a wider public release.
Gemini 4 Carbon focuses on cybersecurity and complex tasks
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ab2c871c9ca0d21c2631592aa80e28b1b028f4a56b71fc952293d2a182248c12" />
Unlike a conventional chatbot designed primarily to answer questions, Gemini 4 Carbon is built to handle demanding tasks involving extended reasoning and multiple steps. In cybersecurity, this includes scanning codebases for weaknesses, checking whether identified flaws could be exploited and proposing ways to fix them.
Google says Carbon can run these processes over extended periods, potentially working on difficult engineering problems for days. Its focus is defensive security and software remediation, while Gemini 4 Argon was introduced as a more general model for reasoning and developer workflows.
Google reported scores of 88.2% on SEC-bench Pro for detecting security flaws, 54.8% on ExploitGym for assessing exploitability and 71% on CWE-bench for generating patches.
The company also said Carbon produced viable security fixes at more than twice the rate of Argon and was more than twice as successful at generating secure code. Google&rsquo;s Chrome team separately reported that Carbon performed more than 10 times better than a competing frontier model at producing high-quality software patches.
Google claims top position in AI model rankings
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0467a5478a0b64fd7ab4267e180b0242f58c647cc7c3ed677f28daac6efb6220" />
Gemini 4 Carbon has made an early mark on the Artificial Analysis Intelligence Index version 5.0, an independent leaderboard that combines results from multiple AI evaluations. Carbon received an aggregate score of 59, narrowly ahead of Anthropic&rsquo;s Claude Opus 5.5, which scored 58.
Google said Carbon achieved the leading result in 15 of 17 benchmarks in its comparison with rival models, including OpenAI&rsquo;s GPT-6 Astra. However, it did not top every evaluation. GPT-6 Astra led the FrontierSWE 2 software engineering test, while Claude Opus 5.5 performed best on OSWorld-2.1, which assesses a model&rsquo;s ability to operate a computer.
The company also highlighted improvements in web development, scientific tasks and multimodal understanding. Carbon reportedly gained 89 points on the WebDev Arena leaderboard, placing fourth. The platform ranks AI-generated websites through user evaluations.
Another evaluation, Terminal-Bench 4.0, tests whether AI systems can complete technical tasks independently using a computer terminal, such as installing software and repairing code. Google highlighted Carbon&rsquo;s performance in this area, although benchmark results alone cannot guarantee how a model will perform in every real-world situation.
Carbon&rsquo;s one-point lead over Claude Opus 5.5 is also relatively narrow, meaning the rankings could change as competitors introduce updated models.
New safeguards aim to reduce AI security risks
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/432f3e2afc4780ad1d1ab3984839727d8bbf5d2da8b57c8a0021ee00bf8725d0" />
As AI systems become more capable of carrying out tasks independently, their ability to follow instructions and avoid unsafe actions is an important consideration. Google says Carbon uses the safety framework introduced with Argon, including monitoring of the model&rsquo;s reasoning, alongside further work on alignment.
In Google&rsquo;s testing, Carbon recorded no successful attacks on Gray Swan&rsquo;s Indirect Prompt Injection benchmark, compared with a 0.7% attack success rate for Argon. The test examines whether hidden instructions can manipulate a model into acting against its intended instructions.
Google also reported a 26% reduction in operational overreach, where an AI agent acts beyond the limits set by a user, and a 29% decline in under-service, when an agent abandons a multi-step task before completing it.
On Terminal-Bench 4.0, the company said Carbon did not successfully use shortcuts to bypass tasks, with attempts to do so recorded at 0.4%. It also reported that Carbon made around half as many unsupported claims as Argon in internal testing.
However, a separate Artificial Analysis evaluation recorded an 11% hallucination rate for Carbon, compared with 4% for Argon. These findings come from different testing methods, highlighting why benchmark results should be considered in context rather than treated as a single measure of reliability.
Limited access and Gemini API pricing
Google is beginning Carbon&rsquo;s rollout with a selected group of cybersecurity defenders, with access expected to expand gradually through its Fairwind programme. The initiative provides early access to models for trusted partners, including government organisations, critical infrastructure operators and enterprise security teams.
Google also said it is participating in the US government&rsquo;s voluntary process for pre-release AI model testing. Feedback from security specialists and partners will help the company assess the model and refine its safeguards before a broader launch. No general availability date has been confirmed for developers, businesses or consumers.
For developers who receive access through the Gemini API, Google has announced introductory pricing of US$2 per million input tokens and US$10 per million output tokens. These rates are scheduled to increase to US$4 and US$20 respectively under standard pricing.
Cached input tokens will receive a 95% discount, bringing the introductory rate down to US$0.10 per million cached tokens. This is intended to benefit enterprise developers running repeated security checks across large codebases.
The staged release reflects the potential risks as well as the capabilities of increasingly powerful AI systems. While Gemini 4 Carbon&rsquo;s early results put Google near the front of the frontier AI race, wider access will depend on further testing and the company&rsquo;s confidence in its security controls.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Can AI stay one step ahead of hackers? Google thinks so.

0c4a1c45495ea2b411099a4f58429712e40b51433fc0a8b3fcfc288a0604c897

Google Unveils Gemini 4 Carbon, Its New AI Model Designed to Detect and Fix Security Flaws

Indonesia has warned that Singapore could also face severe internet disruptions if submarine cables running through Indonesian waters were damaged or deliberately severed, highlighting how closely the two neighbours depend on shared digital infrastructure.
Indonesia&rsquo;s Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said many submarine cable routes connecting Singapore to the wider world pass through Indonesian waters. She claimed that disruption to these connections could put up to 80% of Singapore&rsquo;s internet connectivity capacity at risk.
Her remarks followed a social media post by former Singapore Nominated Member of Parliament Calvin Cheng, who questioned how much Indonesia relies on Singapore for international internet access. The exchange has drawn attention to the importance of regional cooperation in protecting the networks that support digital services, businesses and global communications.
Former Singapore MP questions Indonesia&rsquo;s internet dependence
The discussion began when Cheng shared an infographic on X titled &ldquo;Indonesia&rsquo;s Internet Dependence on Singapore&rdquo;. It claimed that around 90% of Indonesia&rsquo;s international internet traffic passes through Singapore, presenting the city-state as an important gateway to global connectivity through data centres, cloud computing services and submarine cables.
Cheng accompanied the infographic with the one-word question, &ldquo;Cut?&rdquo;, which prompted a response from Indonesian officials and social media users.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We are civilised law-abiding people. We will not do this obviously.
&mdash; Calvin Cheng (@calvinelcheng) <a href="https://x.com/calvinelcheng/status/2114398453199761864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He later clarified that Singapore would not deliberately sever the connections, saying the country was a civilised and law-abiding society. His post was not an announcement of any official Singapore government policy.
Indonesia says submarine cables are a shared dependency
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b4418f391e1be146d3d4350d67f95ea794ba635eb7ce0b2b74cb293fcbb03192" />
Responding to the claims, Meutya said the submarine cable systems that connect Singapore to the rest of the world do not simply arrive in the city-state without crossing other territories. Many of their routes, she noted, pass through Indonesian waters.
She argued that any damage or deliberate disruption could therefore affect both countries, rather than leaving Singapore in a position to control Indonesia&rsquo;s internet access without consequences for itself.
Meutya urged the public not to view the issue narrowly, stressing that digital infrastructure should be protected collectively because it supports connectivity beyond the two neighbouring countries.
The minister also pointed to Indonesia&rsquo;s importance as a market for international technology companies operating in Singapore. With around 267 million internet users and a population approximately 47 times larger than Singapore&rsquo;s, Indonesia represents a significant customer base for companies providing digital services across the region.
Meutya suggested that access to this large market helps attract global technology investment to Singapore, warning that investors could reconsider their presence if the connection to regional consumers were lost.
The figures cited by both sides &mdash; around 90% of Indonesia&rsquo;s international internet traffic passing through Singapore and up to 80% of Singapore&rsquo;s connectivity capacity being exposed to cable disruption &mdash; were claims made during the exchange and have not been independently verified.
The discussion also comes amid heightened attention on economic relations between Jakarta and Singapore after Indonesia decided to reduce natural gas exports to the city-state to prioritise domestic demand.
Indonesia also warns neighbours over haze criticism
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/89eeed3bdd9094c21dc5f5a1fdace934c45642e6699f644c45cc1d04f3f1667c" />
Separately, another Indonesian minister has urged neighbouring countries to be mindful of how they criticise Indonesia over transboundary haze caused by forest and land fires.
Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan said Indonesia&rsquo;s patience had limits if the country&rsquo;s efforts to tackle the fires continued to be dismissed or met with insults from abroad. He made the remarks during a working visit to Nganjuk Regency in East Java on 25 October.
Zulkifli said thousands of personnel from agencies including the National Disaster Management Agency, Indonesian National Armed Forces, police and local authorities were working to contain the fires. Efforts included ground and aerial operations, as well as weather modification measures.
While acknowledging that the haze had affected neighbouring countries, including Malaysia and Singapore, he called for diplomatic etiquette and recognition of the personnel working to manage the situation.
The separate remarks come as regional attention remains focused on Indonesia&rsquo;s relationship with its neighbours. Whether the issue involves haze or submarine cables, the developments underline how environmental conditions and digital networks can cross national borders, making cooperation important to the wider region.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Turns out, the internet connection goes both ways. Neither neighbour can afford to pull the plug.

158447b6b57380a8d3982fdff42999d6ad2cd3ac548a2081f224e4cbce94e964

Indonesia Warns Singapore Could Lose 80% of Internet Capacity if Undersea Cables Are Cut

Oriental Kopi has introduced a new menu in Bahasa Melayu, Chinese and English following public criticism over the lack of a Malay-language option at its outlets, with a Tamil version also being prepared.
Founder Dato&rsquo; Calvin Chan announced the updated menu on social media, saying it was ready in time for the opening of the chain&rsquo;s first outlet in Kedah on 28 October. He said the three-language format was intended to make ordering easier and more comfortable for customers from different backgrounds.
Chan also thanked customers for their patience, explaining that the company was working to print the revised menus for its other outlets. The Tamil-language version is being developed and is expected to be released once ready.
Oriental Kopi adds Bahasa Melayu to its menu
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The change follows criticism in early October, when a social media user questioned why Oriental Kopi&rsquo;s menus were available in English and Chinese but did not include Bahasa Melayu. The issue gained wider attention after the comment was made in response to the brand&rsquo;s patriotic &ldquo;Maka Kami&rdquo; social media post.
The criticism prompted Chan to apologise for the oversight and say the company would revise its menu design. The updated version now brings Bahasa Melayu alongside Chinese and English, while the planned Tamil edition would add another language option for customers.
Oriental Kopi previously clarified that it had not removed its Chinese-language menu. Instead, the company had been using separate English and Chinese menus, a detail it said had contributed to the misunderstanding.
The revised menu is being introduced as the chain continues to expand its presence in Malaysia. The company has estimated that reprinting around 2,000 menu books will cost approximately RM150,000. Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB) said the expense was relatively small, amounting to about 0.2% of its forecast core earnings for FY2026.
New menus to be rolled out across outlets
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/027fbd47b62b980d4d15b4c6e1e775991d11a6913905390963da580c02ea108f" />
The first appearance of the trilingual menu coincided with the Kedah opening, while other branches are expected to receive the updated printed menus progressively. Chan said the team was working to complete the redesign and printing process, and reiterated that the Tamil version was also in the works.
The response has drawn positive comments from some social media users, who welcomed the company&rsquo;s decision to acknowledge the criticism and make its menus more accessible to a wider range of customers.
Boycott calls have yet to affect sales, says HLIB
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ccfb2899853d0e46bb65939fd6a53dff9a1e9f77e919b0ee7d483029c4d46adb" />
Despite calls for a boycott following the controversy, HLIB said Oriental Kopi&rsquo;s sales had remained resilient, with management reporting no significant change in customer footfall. The research house described the company&rsquo;s response as proactive and constructive, and said the public attention partly reflected the brand&rsquo;s expanding customer base.
HLIB maintained its &ldquo;Buy&rdquo; recommendation and an unchanged target price of RM1.17 per share. It expects Oriental Kopi to record core net profit of RM67 million for FY2026, while noting that the share-price weakness should be viewed in the context of other pressures, including earnings misses, margin compression and the costs of expansion.
The company is continuing with its growth plans, targeting around 10 new outlets annually from FY2027. Several locations, including Aman Central, Merdeka 118, KL Midtown, Sutera Mall and Genting, are also scheduled for upcoming openings. Its recent outlets at Ombak KLCC and NU Sentral are reportedly performing in line with expectations.
Overseas, Oriental Kopi is preparing to open its first Jakarta outlet in the fourth quarter of 2026, with Mauritius expected to follow in the first half of 2027. Its consumer goods exports to China began in September, with initial orders described as encouraging.
While the menu controversy has triggered boycott calls and share-price pressure, HLIB&rsquo;s assessment suggests that the backlash has not so far translated into a significant decline in customer visits or sales.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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People complained, Oriental Kopi listened. Now that’s how you turn criticism into good PR.

2f309cd6c264b162e9a1356cd57cb75411af858de3da1795f6a11046cc55d2db

Oriental Kopi Introduces Bahasa Melayu Menu, Tamil Version In the Works After Backlash

A total of 691 teachers in Malaysia have been identified as needing immediate psychological intervention following a nationwide screening of 82,126 educators by the Ministry of Education (MOE).
Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek said the findings from the Psychological Well-being Inventory (IKPsi) showed that 0.84% of those screened required support. However, 99.16% recorded generally good psychological well-being, suggesting that most educators assessed were coping well, even as the ministry continues to focus on those who need help.
In a written parliamentary reply, Fadhlina outlined the screening results and measures available to support teachers&rsquo; mental health and overall welfare. She was responding to Sungai Besar MP Datuk Muslimin Yahaya, who asked about the number of teachers experiencing health problems and mental disorders, as well as the assistance provided to help them continue their lives and careers.
Breakdown of teachers&rsquo; psychological well-being
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4d78c61865ee3e3bbbebc4c2c60949a39e3ba49f0259b217b9f8b1e8eec71ae2" />
Of the 691 teachers identified as requiring intervention, 636 were classified at a moderate level of psychological well-being, 32 at a moderately low level and 23 at a low level.
Among the wider group screened, 50,869 teachers recorded high psychological well-being, while another 30,566 were categorised as moderately high. Together, these groups made up the 99.16% who recorded generally good results.
Fadhlina said the findings would not lessen the ministry&rsquo;s attention to educators who need support. Instead, the MOE would continue to provide interventions based on individual needs, with the aim of helping teachers regain stability and maintain their well-being over the long term.
Counselling and targeted psychological support
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/22f164801c18fc00d831f0b5e2a891f82ab41cf0076072aafc5237ec57935f73" />
The ministry&rsquo;s approach covers development, prevention and recovery through psychological and counselling services. These include individual and group counselling, psychological assessments, guidance and consultation, stress-management programmes and emotional support for education personnel.
The intervention process begins with screening and identifying each person&rsquo;s needs before suitable support is provided. According to Fadhlina, assistance can be tailored to issues such as financial management, serious indebtedness, work performance and mental health concerns.
For teachers experiencing a crisis, intervention may help them stabilise their emotions, recognise their strengths and available support networks, and develop an action plan to resume their daily responsibilities. The ministry said its approach is intended not only to address immediate difficulties, but also to strengthen teachers&rsquo; ability to manage challenges and continue their careers with greater resilience.
Separate figures cited in another parliamentary response showed that, as of 25 September, 0.46% of teachers had sought MOE psychological and counselling services and were identified as having health problems. Of the overall teacher population, 0.13% were linked to physical health problems and 0.33% to mental health issues. These figures relate to records of those seeking services, rather than the IKPsi screening results.
RM200 million to upgrade teachers&rsquo; rooms
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3596815d37bdf18e379958c368778e530110137e21a9a625947c32c33cb11ea7" />
Alongside psychological support, the MOE has allocated RM200 million to upgrade teachers&rsquo; rooms, including an additional RM100 million in new funding. The initiative is intended to provide more comfortable workspaces, improve basic facilities and create a more conducive and professional environment.
Fadhlina said a suitable workplace could support teachers&rsquo; physical, emotional and psychological well-being, while also helping to maintain motivation and productivity. The upgrades form part of the ministry&rsquo;s wider effort to improve educators&rsquo; welfare rather than relying solely on counselling and intervention services.
Concerns over pressure faced by educators
Teachers&rsquo; mental health has also been raised by the National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP). Last year, the union highlighted pressures including what it described as toxic school leadership, growing digital demands and harassment from parents.
NUTP secretary-general Fouzi Singon said some teachers felt isolated and unsupported, while fear of seeking help could allow mental health difficulties to worsen. The concerns underline the importance of making support accessible and creating working environments where educators feel able to seek assistance.
Fadhlina said the ministry would continue strengthening psychological and counselling services, with interventions tailored to the needs of education personnel. The aim is to help teachers maintain their well-being and carry out their responsibilities effectively.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Teachers support our students every day, but who is looking after their well-being?

e605cac017f2cd80138c3045caaf61ac4d912e70e624da229292b0845b527020

691 Malaysian Teachers Need Immediate Psychological Support, Says Fadhlina Sidek

Malaysia has recorded its highest-ever score in the Economic Freedom of the World index since it was introduced in 1970, although the country has slipped two places in the global rankings as other economies made faster progress.
According to the Center for Market Education (CME), Malaysia scored 7.57 out of 10 in the Economic Freedom of the World: 2026 Annual Report, improving slightly from 7.55 previously. Despite the record score, Malaysia fell from 33rd to 35th place among 165 countries and jurisdictions assessed.
In a statement issued on Monday, 19 October, the think tank said Malaysia's economic freedom had improved considerably since the beginning of the century. However, it warned that the latest ranking should not be a reason for complacency, particularly as other countries continue to implement reforms at a faster pace.
Malaysia Remains ASEAN's Second-Freest Economy
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8afca5035a0d0b9972cef6b39abed3b1b25a2242bcf4ad10b2ed6e72a6f3234c" />
Despite its decline in the global rankings, Malaysia remains the second-freest economy in ASEAN, trailing only Singapore, which secured third place worldwide with a score of 8.43.
Malaysia continues to rank ahead of several regional economies, including Thailand in 57th place, Brunei and the Philippines in joint 61st place, and Indonesia in 72nd place.
Globally, Hong Kong topped the index with a score of 8.53, followed by Switzerland, Singapore, New Zealand and the United States.
Malaysia's score is also above the regional average of 6.99, indicating that the country's overall economic freedom remains relatively strong compared with its regional counterparts.
Nevertheless, the two-place drop highlights the difference between improving a country's own performance and keeping pace with other economies. Although Malaysia achieved a higher score, other countries made sufficient progress to overtake it in the rankings.
Malaysia's Economic Freedom Has Recovered Since the Asian Financial Crisis
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f5efc3d20acd87b90e8ec65ca8a5facac8f825db5aaf4bd93400351a81f384e5" />
The CME noted that Malaysia has made considerable progress since the economic difficulties experienced during the Asian financial crisis.
According to the report, Malaysia scored 6.99 and ranked 36th in 1995 before its score fell to 6.12 in 2002 following the financial crisis, capital controls and policy disruptions.
The country's position deteriorated further, reaching 97th place in 2009. However, Malaysia has gradually improved its standing since then, reflecting its longer-term progress in economic freedom.
The latest score of 7.57 marks its strongest performance since the index was established, suggesting that Malaysia has made significant gains over the decades despite facing economic and policy challenges along the way.
The improvement also reinforces Malaysia's position as one of Southeast Asia's more economically open economies, although the latest ranking suggests there is still room for further reform.
Government Ownership Remains a Key Concern
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f4d57510cb73caddb9a44fc4b7cd4032798a83df8448a27e7035f76a4597605b" />
CME chief executive officer Dr Carmelo Ferlito said Malaysia's monetary stability and relatively flexible labour market remained important strengths supporting its economic performance.
However, he warned that the government's extensive involvement in commercial activities continued to present a challenge.
According to Ferlito, government-linked companies (GLCs) and state-owned banks account for a substantial state presence in the economy, which he described as among the heaviest in the world.
He also raised concerns about public administration, stating that it had become less impartial since 2019.
While the country's record score is encouraging, Ferlito stressed that Malaysia should not become complacent as other economies continue to advance their economic reforms.
His comments highlight the ongoing debate over the role of government in the economy, particularly the balance between state participation, private-sector competition and market efficiency.
What Malaysia Needs to Do to Reach the Global Top 20
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d231982ee21843486056da568c1d7911fcbe2fe9c0aefaf186ab4678a4075298" />
Ferlito said Malaysia would need to pursue further structural reforms if it hopes to break into the world's top 20 economies in the economic freedom rankings.
Among the measures he identified were reducing state ownership in the economy, ensuring that the civil service operates according to clear rules and remains impartial, simplifying the country's tariff structure, and opening markets to greater competition.
Reducing barriers to competition could help create more opportunities for private businesses, while clearer and more impartial public administration could support a more predictable business environment.
Simplifying tariffs could also make trade arrangements easier to navigate, potentially improving market access for businesses and investors.
However, the proposed changes would require sustained policy efforts rather than relying solely on incremental improvements in the country's overall score.
Record Score Shows Progress, But More Reforms Are Needed
Malaysia's latest economic freedom score represents a milestone, reflecting its recovery from the setbacks experienced in the aftermath of the Asian financial crisis and its subsequent improvement over the years.
Nevertheless, its fall to 35th place globally serves as a reminder that maintaining competitiveness requires continued progress as other countries strengthen their own economic policies.
With Malaysia still ranked second in ASEAN, the country has a relatively strong regional position. The challenge now is to translate that standing into further improvements in economic openness, market competition and public administration.
As highlighted by CME, reaching the global top 20 will require Malaysia to address the role of state-owned entities, strengthen impartial governance and create greater opportunities for competition.
Whether Malaysia can climb higher in future editions of the index will depend not only on maintaining economic stability, but also on how effectively it implements the reforms needed to keep pace with the rest of the world.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Malaysia hits a record economic freedom score, but slower progress sees it slip two places in the global rankings.

8aff757719fee624bd62c48b431ee701ba53f0cc9c3586a534cdcfc762f84e6c

Malaysia Achieves Highest Economic Freedom Score Since 1970, But Slips To 35th Globally

Ryt Bank customers can now make contactless payments using their Apple devices, following the launch of Apple Pay support for the bank&rsquo;s Ryt Card on 6 October 2026. The update allows customers to add their card to Apple Wallet and pay in stores, online and through supported apps without needing to take out their physical card.
With this addition, Ryt Bank becomes the first digital bank in Malaysia to support both Apple Pay and Google Pay. The bank introduced Google Pay support in January 2026, giving Android users access to mobile payments before extending the service to Apple users.
The latest update offers customers more flexibility in how they pay for everyday purchases, from buying groceries and grabbing coffee to shopping online. It also introduces another convenient way to make payments while benefiting from the security features built into Apple Pay.
How Apple Pay Makes Everyday Payments More Convenient
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a06634d7f0de0d8f8ba130a5be85cd48b0017e061d6bbdda0e8e0a4cec6d2fdf" />
Apple Pay allows customers to use compatible devices, including iPhones and Apple Watches, to make contactless payments at participating merchants. Instead of carrying a physical card, users can simply authenticate their payment on their device and hold it near a compatible payment terminal.
The service also works for online purchases and in-app transactions at supported merchants, allowing users to complete payments without repeatedly entering their card details.
For customers who frequently use contactless payments, adding a card to Apple Wallet can make everyday transactions quicker and more convenient. It is particularly useful when heading out without a wallet, as payments can be made directly through a compatible Apple device.
Customers who use Android devices can continue to access Google Pay with their Ryt Card, meaning Ryt Bank now supports both major mobile wallet platforms.
Apple Pay Security Features Protect Your Card Details
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/724ed1fa5a195167b50cac4b7b977fbefb8d824b9a7a4435187ed13a5a0f9b5b" />
Beyond convenience, Apple Pay includes security measures designed to protect users&rsquo; payment information.
Each transaction must be authenticated through Face ID, Touch ID or the device&rsquo;s passcode, helping ensure that payments are authorised by the device&rsquo;s owner.
Apple Pay also uses a device-specific account number and a unique security code for each transaction, rather than sharing the actual card number with merchants. Apple states that card numbers are not stored on its servers, adding another layer of protection when customers make payments.
If an iPhone is lost or misplaced, users can also use Apple&rsquo;s Find My service to mark the device as lost and suspend Apple Pay on it.
However, users should still protect their devices with a secure passcode and keep their banking applications updated.
How To Add Your Ryt Card To Apple Pay
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8f90cd0d321e69e0ce6a2eb0c2d2ed8edda25d579cd43fa930c406b9029d639d" />
Ryt Bank customers can add their Ryt Card to Apple Wallet through the bank&rsquo;s app or directly through the Wallet app on a compatible Apple device.
Option 1: Through the Ryt Bank app
<ol>
<li>Open the Ryt Bank app and navigate to the Cards tab.</li>
<li>Select the option to Add to Apple Wallet.</li>
<li>Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.</li>
</ol>
Option 2: Through Apple Wallet
<ol>
<li>Open the Wallet app on your compatible Apple device.</li>
<li>Tap the + button to add a card.</li>
<li>Follow the instructions to add and verify your Ryt Card.</li>
</ol>
Once the setup is complete, you can use Apple Pay wherever the service is accepted. Depending on your device and setup, you may also be able to add the card to other compatible Apple devices.
What Is Ryt Bank?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7838122416fdb9288b2869284ae7342adcbab30c4e9ed6c8699fea2c795f1bbc" />
Ryt Bank is a licensed digital bank in Malaysia that provides banking services through a digital platform, allowing customers to manage their finances without relying on a traditional network of physical bank branches.
It is operated by YTL Digital Bank Berhad, a joint venture between YTL Digital Capital Sdn Bhd and Sea Limited, the parent company of Shopee and Garena. The bank offers digital banking services through its mobile app, including access to its Ryt Card.
As a digital bank, Ryt Bank focuses on providing customers with accessible banking services and digital tools for everyday financial management. Its support for Google Pay and Apple Pay expands the ways customers can use their Ryt Card for cashless transactions.
Which Other Banks Support Apple Pay In Malaysia?
Ryt Bank joins several established financial institutions that already support Apple Pay in Malaysia. These include AmBank, CIMB, Hong Leong Bank, HSBC, Maybank, RHB and Standard Chartered.
Wise Payments Malaysia is also listed by Apple as a participating card issuer, although availability can vary depending on the issuer and card type.
With Apple Pay now available for the Ryt Card, Ryt Bank customers have another option for making secure, convenient payments using their preferred devices. The move also strengthens the bank&rsquo;s digital payment offerings, allowing both iPhone and Android users to enjoy mobile wallet convenience.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Your Ryt Card just got more convenient, with seamless cashless payments.

83a7b0eb032eccc584cde4e6a36238f2fc261c203d052ed405a69689184ad951

Ryt Bank Adds Apple Pay Support, Becoming Malaysia’s First Digital Bank To Offer Apple Pay And Google Pay

Malaysians can now access a new savings and protection plan directly through ShopeePay following an expanded partnership between ShopeePay Malaysia and Zurich Life Insurance Malaysia Berhad (ZLIMB).
The new Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan combines savings with life and disability protection, giving users a way to build their financial future while receiving additional coverage. The two-year plan currently starts from a single premium of RM500, with the minimum entry amount set to be lowered to RM100 in the near future.
The partnership was officially launched in Kuala Lumpur on 7 October 2026 under the theme &ldquo;Everyday Protection, Made For All&rdquo;, marking the first time ShopeePay's digital distribution partnership with Zurich has extended to its life insurance business.
What Does The Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan Offer?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/02d8fdee262be6b2445a734c559a9c007eed48e7b28876a54e5e86c1b9cf1734" />
The Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan is a two-year, single-premium endowment plan designed to combine savings growth with life protection.
One of its key features is guaranteed cash payouts every six months, allowing policyholders to receive regular payments throughout the two-year period. The plan also provides life and disability protection equivalent to 105% of the premium paid, with the benefit payable to the policyholder or beneficiaries according to the terms of the policy.
At the end of the two-year maturity period, policyholders receive 100% principal protection, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.
There are also flexible early cash-out options for those who may need access to their money before the plan reaches maturity. However, the amount received through an early cash-out may differ from the maturity benefit, so customers should review the relevant terms before purchasing.
How To Purchase The Plan On ShopeePay
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8d9b3b8f382f3a162388fedb4e0ec88f82a040875e60c04fc2328acdf87b31af" />
The Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan is available directly through the ShopeePay app, allowing users to access the product digitally without having to visit an insurance branch.
To find the plan, users can open the ShopeePay app and select &ldquo;Insurance&rdquo; from the homepage, followed by &ldquo;Endowment&rdquo;.
The launch expands ShopeePay's existing relationship with Zurich. The platform already works with Zurich General Insurance Malaysia Berhad and Zurich General Takaful Malaysia Berhad, but this is the first time its digital distribution partnership has extended to Zurich's life insurance arm.
It also builds on the earlier availability of Zurich Critical Illness insurance through the platform.
Entry Premium To Be Lowered To RM100
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/41239d4b6ec3e4396504fea8aac52d5404aaf336d4b389c532e5e6030b04823c" />
The plan currently requires a minimum premium of RM500, but Zurich and ShopeePay are planning to reduce this to RM100.
While the lower entry point has not yet been implemented, it could make the product more accessible to Malaysians who want to start building financial protection with a smaller initial commitment.
Both companies said the broader goal is to make insurance and financial protection more accessible through digital platforms that consumers already use in their everyday lives.
Junior Cho, Country CEO of Zurich Malaysia, highlighted that Malaysia's protection gap is closely linked to accessibility, saying insurers need to reach consumers where they already are rather than expecting them to seek out traditional channels.
Family Takaful Plans Coming Next Year
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ce24b27f03d837ea0488d1e9954160c6552ede6a05201dc8e2d393731223dbe1" />
The partnership is also expected to expand into family takaful in 2027.
ShopeePay and Zurich Takaful Malaysia Berhad plan to introduce family takaful products through the platform, giving users access to Syariah-compliant protection alongside conventional insurance options.
Family takaful provides life and financial protection based on Syariah principles, offering Malaysians another option when planning for their long-term financial needs.
Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan At A Glance
For those considering the new product, here are the key details:
<ul>
<li>Minimum premium: RM500</li>
<li>Planned future minimum: RM100</li>
<li>Plan duration: Two years</li>
<li>Payment structure: Single premium</li>
<li>Guaranteed cash payouts: Every six months</li>
<li>Life and disability protection: 105% of premium paid</li>
<li>Principal protection at maturity: 100%</li>
<li>Early cash-out: Available, subject to the plan's terms</li>
<li>Available on: ShopeePay app</li>
<li>Access: Insurance &rarr; Endowment</li>
<li>PIDM protection: Benefits are protected by PIDM, subject to applicable limits</li>
</ul>
With the new Zurich Savings &amp; Protection Plan, ShopeePay is expanding beyond everyday payments and general insurance into life insurance, giving Malaysians another digital option to combine savings and financial protection.
The planned RM100 entry point and upcoming family takaful offerings could further widen access to financial protection, although customers should always review the product's terms, benefits and conditions before committing.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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No insurance yet? This could be a simple way to start building financial protection.

0e59542d0735bf57c67f70ff72f64333a4ebc4b0d97c8c2f168a0ff63fa9a947

ShopeePay And Zurich Launch Two-Year Savings And Protection Plan From RM500

Only 39% of active Employees Provident Fund (EPF) members in Malaysia&rsquo;s formal sector are currently on track to meet the fund&rsquo;s Basic Savings benchmark by the age of 60, highlighting the challenge of ensuring Malaysians have enough money to support themselves throughout retirement.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the proportion of members meeting the age-based Basic Savings benchmark increased from 36% in June 2025 to 39% in June 2026.
While this represents progress, around six in 10 active formal-sector EPF members remain below the benchmark for their age.
The government is targeting for six in 10 EPF members to meet the Basic Savings benchmark by 2030 under the EPF&rsquo;s Retirement Income Adequacy (RIA) framework.
What Is The RM390,000 EPF Savings Target?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/094d4f6f9a830c467627a3083a59c1631eb6cf3f98094ae48e08266cbe4c034e" />
The RM390,000 figure is the EPF&rsquo;s full Basic Savings level under its three-tier Retirement Income Adequacy framework, which took effect in 2026.
The RIA framework is designed to give members a clearer guide to how much they may need for retirement. It consists of three savings levels:
<ul>
<li>Basic Savings: RM390,000</li>
<li>Adequate Savings: RM650,000</li>
<li>Enhanced Savings: RM1.3 million</li>
</ul>
Basic Savings is intended to cover essential retirement needs, while Adequate Savings aims to support a reasonable standard of living. Enhanced Savings represents a higher level of financial security in retirement.
According to EPF, RM390,000 is designed to support an initial monthly withdrawal of around RM1,625 in the first year of retirement, with the framework projecting withdrawals over 20 years from age 60 to 80.
The RM390,000 Benchmark Is Being Phased In
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e6cb2d5631158eb97bdc73790e51aedeceee88bc865de1df4b151f201e1121f5" />
Although RM390,000 is the full Basic Savings benchmark at age 60, members are not expected to reach the amount immediately.
EPF is gradually introducing the target over five years to give members time to adjust to the higher savings benchmark.
The schedule is:
<ul>
<li>2026: RM270,000</li>
<li>2027: RM300,000</li>
<li>2028: RM330,000</li>
<li>2029: RM360,000</li>
<li>2030: RM390,000</li>
</ul>
The benchmark is also age-based, meaning members are assessed against the amount appropriate for their age rather than being expected to have RM390,000 at any point before the full target takes effect.
Why Retirement Savings Remain A Concern
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/52182c09071739d833d3baddd6f9a8a7636a9bb4cb4f46c70e3fa92d408bfb79" />
Anwar said the latest figures showed progress, but warned that too many Malaysians remain at risk of running out of savings during retirement.
With retirement potentially lasting 20 to 25 years, the issue is not simply accumulating a large lump sum but ensuring those savings can provide a sustainable income throughout retirement.
Speaking at the EPF International Social Wellbeing Conference 2026, Anwar also highlighted the financial pressures facing households today.
He said retirement planning cannot be viewed purely as a matter of financial literacy when many households are already dealing with immediate expenses such as food, rent and education.
This means the ability to save for retirement is closely linked to having sufficient and stable income. Retirement security therefore also depends on wages, decent employment and the ability to contribute consistently.
Informal And Gig Workers Remain Part Of The Challenge
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/379ead4e522887f28a70b190fe51084bd10ab1c9c743c7f4476279e7a5af34fe" />
Another challenge is extending retirement savings coverage to Malaysians working outside conventional formal employment.
The growth of self-employment, gig work and other non-traditional forms of employment means some workers may not receive regular employer contributions to their EPF accounts.
The government has introduced initiatives to broaden coverage, including i-Saraan, which provides incentives for eligible self-employed and informal workers who contribute to EPF.
There is also i-Saraan Plus, which provides additional support for eligible e-hailing and p-hailing workers, while i-Suri has been expanded to support retirement savings among women involved in unpaid care work.
These programmes aim to encourage more Malaysians outside traditional employment to build retirement savings.
EPF Shifts Focus From Savings To Retirement Income
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/dce895ff83854520641db177e2f062d4bde7a0b11c289be0f00857338c4e3ef9" />
EPF chairman Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali said retirement planning should not focus solely on how much money members have accumulated. Instead, members need to consider how their savings can provide a sustainable income throughout retirement.
This approach is reflected in the RIA framework, which connects savings levels with potential retirement income rather than treating EPF savings simply as a lump sum. EPF has also introduced measures to help members manage their savings over a longer retirement period.
One is i-Emas, which provides regular monthly payments under the existing Age 55/60 Withdrawal facility. As of June 2026, more than 25,000 members had opted for monthly withdrawals, including more than 7,000 aged 55 and more than 19,000 aged 60.
Another initiative, i-Legasi, allows eligible members with savings above the RM650,000 Adequate Savings level to transfer eligible excess savings to the EPF accounts of immediate family members.
Government Expands Support For Older Malaysians
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/019711301cc9d428487370e4deba8a076a5d9bb64a1c4be910cb5006b512c012" /> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
Retirement security is also being addressed beyond EPF savings.
Under Budget 2026, the government allocated RM1.26 billion for senior citizen welfare, with the funding expected to benefit around 180,000 older Malaysians through assistance and activity centres.
Anwar also highlighted the need for a more comprehensive care system for Malaysia&rsquo;s ageing population, covering community support, nutritious meals and home assistance, as well as day care, home nursing and residential care for older people who are frail or living with dementia.
He said access to essential care should be based on need rather than solely on an individual&rsquo;s ability to pay.
What The Latest EPF Figures Mean
The increase from 36% to 39% of active formal-sector EPF members meeting their age-based Basic Savings benchmark shows some improvement in retirement preparedness.
However, the figures also underline the scale of the challenge ahead.
The government aims to increase the proportion to 60% by 2030, while the full Basic Savings benchmark gradually reaches RM390,000 at age 60.
For EPF members, the RIA framework provides a clearer reference point for assessing whether their savings are keeping pace with their age and expected retirement needs.
Ultimately, retirement planning is not just about reaching a particular savings figure. It is also about ensuring Malaysians have sufficient income, savings and social support to sustain themselves through what could be decades of retirement.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Surviving today while saving for tomorrow isn’t easy. Are Malaysians earning enough to do both?

f11cca6a2b33f1bc76b153ad819bfeeeb2282d7e41fcdf10b1c99f0f59573775

Only 4 In 10 Malaysians On Track For RM390K EPF Savings By 60, Govt Targets 60% By 2030

Tencent has launched TenPayGo, a new mobile payment app designed to make it easier for international visitors to pay for goods, food and transport while travelling in China.
Developed by Tencent&rsquo;s Weixin Pay team, the app allows overseas travellers to link foreign-issued bank cards and selected international digital wallets without needing a Chinese mobile phone number.
The launch comes as China experiences growing inbound tourism, with Tencent looking to make its largely cashless payment ecosystem more accessible to international visitors. The app was unveiled at an international payment services event in Shenzhen, Guangdong, ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders&rsquo; Meeting scheduled to take place in the city in November.
No Chinese Phone Number Required
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7d0599429863e5bab45a105d5b644fd1af8df8f7ae1b3802bc5541ba89bf6b12" />
One of TenPayGo&rsquo;s main features is its simplified registration process for overseas users.
Instead of requiring a Chinese mobile number, travellers can sign up using an email address and link payment methods issued in their home countries. The app supports bank cards from seven major international card networks, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as Apple Pay and around 60 overseas digital wallets.
Supported wallets include services such as Starryblu, Hipay and Octopus. However, the current list does not include Malaysian e-wallets such as Touch &rsquo;n Go eWallet or Boost.
Once a payment method is connected, users can scan and pay through TenPayGo at tens of millions of shops, restaurants and attractions connected to Tencent&rsquo;s Weixin Pay network.
This gives international travellers another option for making everyday payments in China without having to set up a local payment account.
TenPayGo is Tencent&rsquo;s first mobile payment app specifically designed for international visitors. The company&rsquo;s existing Weixin Pay service is integrated into WeChat, or Weixin as it is known in mainland China, which combines messaging, social media and digital payments in a single platform.
TenPayGo Also Supports Shenzhen Public Transport
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a282917f8fcf06b25ebf1862406d618bd5e1f2ce925dff22cd0438c612456543" />
Beyond shopping and dining, TenPayGo is also designed to help overseas visitors get around China.
The app currently allows international travellers to activate a ride code for Shenzhen&rsquo;s bus and metro networks directly from their smartphones. Users do not need a local phone number or a physical transport card to access the service.
The transport integration is currently focused on Shenzhen, although Tencent says it plans to gradually introduce more local transportation and lifestyle services through the platform.
The move could make TenPayGo particularly useful for visitors attending major events in the city, including the upcoming APEC summit.
Shenzhen, one of China&rsquo;s major technology hubs, will host the APEC Economic Leaders&rsquo; Meeting in November. It will be the third Chinese city to host the event, following Shanghai in 2001 and Beijing in 2014.
AI Translation And Travel Tools
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c485c0700b224e7cf6d762fb8422ea08e72b1957f0a023f29d960121b1de6ca5" />
Tencent is also positioning TenPayGo as more than just a payment app by incorporating tools aimed at helping international visitors navigate China.
One of its features provides instant menu translation, allowing travellers to use their smartphones to understand menus and order food more easily.
The app also includes an object-identification function that lets users scan and circle items on their screen to identify them, making it potentially useful when navigating unfamiliar surroundings.
Tencent has also said it is working with local banks on a tax-refund function. The planned feature is intended to support departure tax refunds for eligible overseas visitors, although details on its availability have yet to be announced.
Foreign Spending In China Is Rising
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/36aba044673be1b0f18d0a11dd2b3f5bf007c210edd1142d8124ada66ca7719c" />
The launch of TenPayGo comes as spending by international visitors in China continues to increase.
According to data from Weixin Pay, the value of transactions made by overseas e-wallet users in China rose by 80.6 per cent year-on-year during the first eight months of 2026. The number of transactions also increased by 81.8 per cent over the same period.
China has been seeking to attract more international visitors through measures including expanded visa-free travel arrangements and improvements to its tourism infrastructure.
Official figures cited by Xinhua showed that foreign nationals made nearly 61.29 million border crossings into and out of China between January and August 2026, representing a 19.5 per cent increase from the previous year. Visa-free entries accounted for 23.72 million of those crossings, up 26.8 per cent year-on-year.
The increase in international travel has also encouraged Chinese technology companies to expand support for overseas payment services.
Tencent has previously worked to connect international digital wallets to its payment network, allowing visitors to make purchases in China through payment services they already use at home.
In May, Tencent announced an integration with PayPal that allows eligible US travellers to make payments at Weixin Pay merchants in China through the PayPal app.
Tencent Looks To Make China Travel More Accessible
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TenPayGo represents another step in Tencent&rsquo;s efforts to bridge the gap between China&rsquo;s cashless payment ecosystem and international travellers.
Rather than requiring visitors to download WeChat or obtain a local Chinese phone number, the app brings payments, public transport and selected travel tools together in a platform specifically designed for overseas users.
Tencent has also said it will work with domestic online payment-clearing house NetsUnion to connect more overseas digital wallets to its payment network.
As international tourism to China continues to grow, TenPayGo could give foreign visitors a simpler way to pay for everyday expenses while also providing access to transport and travel-related services from a single smartphone.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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China’s cashless ecosystem just got more foreigner-friendly.