Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

Indonesia

New Name

Malindo Airlines

Rename

Aviation

Batik Air

Planes

New Look

Lion Group

Boeing

Airbus

I&rsquo;m sure there are many of us who used to be a frequent flyer before the pandemic hit us in 2020.
Back then, times were good and flight tickets were also reasonably priced.
Coming into 2022, looks like one of the more familiar names in the airline industry had gotten a name change. Malindo Air had officially changed their name to Batik Air as the company, Malindo Airways Sdn Bhd had granted a new Air Operators Certificate (AOC) by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM).
For those who don&rsquo;t know Malindo Air, it&rsquo;s a Malaysian-based airline launched in 2013 with a joint venture between Malaysia&rsquo;s National Aerospace &amp; Defence Industries Sdn Bhd (NADI) as well as Indonesia&rsquo;s PT Lion Group.
The new name is now being used as of 28 April 2022 among their fleet of Boeing 737s and ATR 72-600s.
Rebranding was initiated 5 years ago 
<img src="https://cdn1.myc.com.my/image/upload/v1651215470/unsigned/c6v07bxfuqrqqsf9wryq.png" />
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
For most of us who may not have known, the idea of rebranding had been around for a while and the airlines was supposed to rename themselves to Batik Air in the second half of 2017.
The brand change will give the airlines a better position in the Lion Air Group and offer seamless domestic and international services said former airline&rsquo;s CEO Chandran Rama Muthy. Additionally, they had aimed to promote the Batik Air Malaysia brand to help boost the country, culture and heritage across the 16 countries they operate in.
Back in May 2017, the airlines became the first airline to receive and operate the Boeing 737 Max 8. It was also delivered in Batik Malaysia livery as it promised superior economics and performance. A few months into operation, Malindo&rsquo;s 737 Max aircraft were eventually transferred over to Lion Group.
Due to the unfortunate disastrous crash of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethiopian_Airlines_Flight_302">Ethiopian Airlines</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion_Air_Flight_610">Lion Air</a>, the airlines had retired the plane from their fleet in 2019 as the plane had been banned from flying in Malaysian airspace and suffered multiple bans by countries for safety reasons.
New year, new identity with Lion Group
<img src="https://cdn1.myc.com.my/image/upload/v1651215487/unsigned/vd0k8d5cj5mzqki40je6.png" />
&nbsp;
Batik Air already has a name in Indonesia which began operations n 2013 as a full-service airline with a fleet of Airbus A320, A330 and Boeing 737-800 (the not-so-problematic 737 from Boeing).
The rebranding is set to line up with Lion Group&rsquo;s goal to establish a common identity for their full-service airlines within the group. Since CAAM has already approved of their name change, Batik Air will be able to improve their transfers seamlessly and will be utilizing KLIA as a transit hub
&nbsp;At the time of writing, their <a href="https://www.malindoair.com/">website</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/malindoair">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/malindoair">Twitter</a> still shows the Malindo Air branding.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, Batik Air &amp; various cross references for context.
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fa8138c2811f305b3935134e5c57fcef4bd072764f5711b191a0bc56724b4b7d

Malindo Air Rebrands To 'Batik Air'

d9d56c8e5c29847e2917983575418651c94c72608ef9e914a6542c4a698d7349

Scentify

e891e864574960ae21e3a00f338f06377dd53af0baffdac1786ad4ed7dad7721

Oatside

c6e5412e94f35f5e45d8d645b31f06c7e7692356c43e40dffb5b8af1b8e8c3a9

Rohto

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Datin Vivy Sofinas Yusof and her husband, Datuk Fadzarudin Shah Anuar &mdash; co-founders of the once-celebrated fashion and e-commerce brands FashionValet and dUCk &mdash; are set to stand trial in 2026 for allegedly misappropriating RM8 million in investment funds. The funds, entrusted to their company by two government-linked investment giants &mdash; Khazanah Nasional Berhad and Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) &mdash; were meant to support and develop local entrepreneurship.
Instead, the high-profile couple is accused of transferring the RM8 million from FashionValet Sdn Bhd into a separate entity they also owned &mdash; 30 Maple Sdn Bhd &mdash; without obtaining approval from FashionValet&rsquo;s board of directors. The alleged financial misconduct is said to have taken place on 21 August 2018 at Public Bank&rsquo;s Bukit Damansara branch in Kuala Lumpur.
Trial Dates Set for 2026
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2998b13fcc07dfdb9ec3102cef46b0ea483869af7772fb7d0b239f0bc78f119b" />
After months of legal developments, the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court has now fixed 15 days for the full trial next year. Sessions Court Judge Rosli Ahmad confirmed the following dates:
<ul>
<li>13&ndash;17 April 2026</li>
<li>18&ndash;22 May 2026</li>
<li>8&ndash;12 June 2026</li>
</ul>
The next case mention is scheduled for 27 October 2025, allowing the defence team more time to examine forensic reports and prepare their arguments. According to Deputy Public Prosecutor Datuk Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin, the prosecution intends to call 26 witnesses to testify over the course of the trial.
Vivy and Fadzarudin, both aged 37, were not present during the recent case management hearing on 23 June 2025, as their legal counsel had secured an exemption from court attendance. The couple continues to be represented by lawyer M. Athimulan.
Pleading Not Guilty to CBT and Alternative Charge
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/83fe5112de17164183559c4c32ad2eb1dba5d1825a3204a9a725d85a909fac62" />
The charges, first read in court on 5 December 2024, fall under Section 409 of the Penal Code, read in conjunction with Section 34, which pertains to criminal breach of trust (CBT) committed by a public servant or an individual in a position of trust. If found guilty, they face between two and 20 years&rsquo; imprisonment, whipping, and a fine.
Additionally, the couple faces an alternative charge under Section 403, also read with Section 34, for dishonestly misappropriating property belonging to the company. This charge carries a lighter penalty &mdash; a prison term ranging from six months to five years, and may also include caning and a fine upon conviction.
Both Vivy and Fadzarudin have pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Controversy Surrounding Internal Acquisition
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/df0c19d6780d3d09d405ee5020129c242c96544236ab9f61dc1bc7bf22579f1a" />
The case has drawn significant public and media attention not only because of the accused&rsquo;s celebrity status, but also due to the complex financial transactions under scrutiny. In 2018, the same year Khazanah and PNB invested RM47 million into FashionValet, the company acquired 30 Maple Sdn Bhd &mdash; a firm wholly owned by Vivy and Fadzarudin &mdash; for a reported RM95 million.
The acquisition was made through the issuance of 851,686 new ordinary shares in FashionValet. According to filings with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), the internal valuation placed the value of the dUCk brand at RM68.8 million, with an additional RM21 million assigned as goodwill.
Although 30 Maple had posted profits of RM8.5 million in 2017 and RM7.7 million in 2018 &mdash; along with a RM10 million dividend payout &mdash; the timing and structure of the RM95 million acquisition deal sparked scepticism.
Critics argue that the founders effectively channelled public investment funds back into their personal company, raising ethical concerns over whether such internal transactions should have received greater scrutiny, especially given the involvement of taxpayer-linked capital.
From Digital Darlings to Legal Defendants
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/940a38318db14b9e054ead40300b4e4ce51d51df047aa86278aed03428db76eb" />
Vivy Yusof and Fadzarudin were once hailed as digital economy success stories, with FashionValet positioned as one of Malaysia&rsquo;s premier fashion e-commerce platforms. Through savvy branding and strong social media influence, Vivy in particular emerged as a role model for young entrepreneurs and Muslim fashion enthusiasts, with the dUCk brand gaining international recognition.
However, the collapse of FashionValet in 2023, after over a decade of operation, marked the beginning of a turning point for the couple&rsquo;s public image. The platform&rsquo;s sudden shutdown &mdash; despite years of funding and partnerships &mdash; led to renewed scrutiny over the company&rsquo;s financial management and use of public funds.
Public Trust and Accountability Under the Microscope
This upcoming trial represents more than just a legal battle for two prominent entrepreneurs. It also raises broader questions about transparency, governance, and accountability within the ecosystem of public-private investment partnerships in Malaysia.
As public interest in the case continues to grow, observers are hoping the legal proceedings will provide greater clarity on how such high-value investments are monitored &mdash; and whether protections are sufficient to prevent conflicts of interest.
With 2026 fast approaching, the fashion world, business community, and general public will be watching closely to see whether justice will be served &mdash; and what it might mean for the future of government-linked entrepreneurship initiatives.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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High-profile fashion duo accused of criminal breach of trust after funds from Khazanah and PNB was allegedly transferred to their privately owned company.

99e6d79f76df3bb7b3f2218e848540aa94a90d0f88ea1684c88e755235f2531c

Vivy Yusof & Husband To Face Trial Over Alleged Misappropriation Of RM8 Million In Public Funds

Malaysia&rsquo;s latest boy band, ALPHA, has officially made its debut &mdash; but not without a few unexpected hiccups. Formed through the popular singing competition Big Stage Alpha, the group is made up of seven finalists from Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. These rising stars were handpicked by both the competition&rsquo;s judging panel and the voting public.
While the group&rsquo;s big public launch was met with much excitement, their first live television performance was marred by a series of technical blunders, leaving fans both impressed by the group&rsquo;s professionalism and frustrated with the show&rsquo;s production quality.
Who Are ALPHA?
&nbsp;
ALPHA is Malaysia&rsquo;s newest homegrown boy group making waves in the local music scene. Formed through the reality survival show Big Stage Alpha&mdash;a spin-off of Astro&rsquo;s popular Big Stage series&mdash;the group is a product of rigorous training, charismatic talent, and a vision to elevate Malaysian pop music to new heights. Backed by Astro and Rocketfuel Entertainment, the group brings together a diverse mix of members from Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, including standout performers like Ariel Fesol, Rizal Rasid, Daniel Sher, and Afiq Sky (Muhammad Afiq Asyraaf).
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KtqwQA7CnAA" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Following their formation, ALPHA debuted with their energetic first single &ldquo;Mona Lisa (Bang Bang)&rdquo;, which has already sparked growing interest across social media platforms. Their stage presence, polished choreography, and fresh visuals have drawn comparisons to international K-pop acts, signalling a bold new chapter for Southeast Asian boy groups.
ALPHA&rsquo;s popularity is expected to grow further with their upcoming performance at Big Stage Alpha judge Hael Hussaini&rsquo;s solo concert at Zepp Kuala Lumpur this August&mdash;an exciting milestone early in their career.
While they are still in the early stages of building their discography, ALPHA&rsquo;s trajectory looks promising. Their presence on music shows, dedicated fanbase, and increasing public attention position them as one of the most talked-about new acts in the region&mdash;potentially Malaysia&rsquo;s first major boy group to break into the wider Asian pop scene.
First Major Appearance on &ldquo;Raise The Star Malaysia&rdquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/eeb7aed1631024707c347d0c375350a20f892d6cfcc04569328ee429f4f55269" />
ALPHA&rsquo;s performance of their debut single &ldquo;Mona Lisa (Bang Bang)&rdquo; took place on Raise The Star Malaysia over the weekend. The appearance was meant to be a triumphant introduction ahead of their upcoming performance at Hael Hussaini&rsquo;s solo concert at Zepp Kuala Lumpur this August. However, the moment quickly turned into a talking point for all the wrong reasons.
Viewers who tuned in &mdash; and those who caught the clips online &mdash; expressed disappointment with the overall production, especially the camerawork. Fans pointed out that the broadcast repeatedly cut away from the singers at crucial moments, instead focusing awkwardly on the audience or wide stage shots. The most criticised moment came during the song&rsquo;s chorus, where the camera zoomed out completely, missing the most energetic part of the performance.
Pyrotechnic Mishap and Smoke Machine Blunder
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kite wakilkan kat sini pulak lah ek. Harap Astro belajar lah ek. Credit video from tt CT. Kami masih baran. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaiseTheStarMY?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaiseTheStarMY</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JusticeforAlpha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JusticeforAlpha</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yf6MmlKZxU">pic.twitter.com/Yf6MmlKZxU</a>
&mdash; AD. (@dyanaisdonna) <a href="https://twitter.com/dyanaisdonna/status/1936812045028167688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

As if the poor camerawork weren&rsquo;t enough, a technical malfunction occurred when one of the pyrotechnic effects briefly set part of the stage alight. Fortunately, the stage crew acted swiftly, extinguishing the fire with a fire extinguisher &mdash; all while ALPHA continued to perform without missing a beat.
Unfortunately, the chaos didn&rsquo;t end there. Towards the close of the performance, the smoke machine malfunctioned and released a thick cloud that completely obscured the group from view, effectively cutting them off from the audience during the finale.
Netizens Slam Production Quality
Clips from the performance quickly went viral across social media, prompting widespread criticism from fans. Many speculated that the camera crew may not have attended rehearsals, as the camera angles and panning appeared disjointed and poorly coordinated. Others compared the production to South Korea&rsquo;s music shows like Inkigayo, which are widely praised for their polished and well-executed K-pop stages.
Some fans urged the production team to review their standards, especially if they intend to showcase rising acts like ALPHA on such a public platform. The group&rsquo;s professionalism in continuing their performance despite multiple disruptions earned them praise, but it also raised questions about whether the show&rsquo;s production values match the level of talent on display.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Asap ke alam lain ke tu.
&mdash; Adii (@adikhun) <a href="https://twitter.com/adikhun/status/1936940075511874045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
aku rasa part tangga tu melampau ya.. camerawork macam first day kerja just a mess
&mdash; tuan (@tmizvv) <a href="https://twitter.com/tmizvv/status/1936891049303261578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Zoom kemain padahal stage ciput je macam la gah sangat no nak tunjuk 😭😭😭😭
&mdash; 🌻 (@Stnslv__) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stnslv__/status/1937165661714973077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

No Official Response Yet
As of now, neither Raise The Star Malaysia nor Astro has issued a formal response to the backlash, aside from acknowledging the quick action of the stage crew in handling the pyrotechnic incident. Fans are hopeful that future performances &mdash; especially ALPHA&rsquo;s anticipated stage at Zepp Kuala Lumpur &mdash; will be handled with the care and precision the group deserves.
With such a dramatic debut now behind them, all eyes will be on ALPHA to see how they bounce back. One thing is certain: it&rsquo;s not the boys who need to step up &mdash; it&rsquo;s the production team.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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It felt as though the production crew were on their very first day at work.

f70788d3c2c7f65948db20cf1e00cf722d5b6163fb214d860a7c19927aa9f39e

Malaysia’s Newest Boy Group ALPHA Faces On-Stage Chaos During Debut Performance

Starting 1 July 2025, electricity consumers in Peninsular Malaysia will experience a major transformation in how their electricity usage is billed. Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), guided by the Energy Commission (Suruhanjaya Tenaga or ST), is rolling out a restructured electricity tariff framework that prioritises transparency, fairness, and closer reflection of actual market dynamics.
&nbsp;
A New Era of Clarity and Efficiency
&nbsp;
Under Regulatory Period 4 (RP4) of the Incentive-Based Regulation (IBR), the revamped tariff structure reflects the true cost of delivering electricity&mdash;from generation to distribution&mdash;while promoting responsible energy usage. This shift impacts more than 23.6 million domestic electricity users in Peninsular Malaysia.
Rather than relying on traditional tiered or block-based pricing, the new structure breaks down your bill into five main components:
<ul>
<li>Energy Charge: Cost of generating electricity.</li>
<li>Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA): Adjusted monthly based on global fuel prices and foreign exchange fluctuations.</li>
<li>Capacity Charge: Costs related to standby power generation.</li>
<li>Network Charge: Infrastructure, transmission, and distribution costs.</li>
<li>Retail Charge: Administrative cost of RM10/month (waived for usage below 600kWh).</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Tariff Categories Simplified
Previously, users were classified by customer activity type (commercial, industrial, etc.). Now, the categories are streamlined based on connection voltage level:
<ul>
<li>Domestic (households)</li>
<li>Non-Domestic:</li>
<ul>
<li>Low Voltage</li>
<li>Medium Voltage</li>
<li>High Voltage</li>
</ul>
</ul>
This simplification is intended to improve user understanding of tariffs and ensure consistency in pricing.
&nbsp;
Time of Use (ToU): Now Open to Households
&nbsp;
A major highlight of this restructuring is the introduction of the Time of Use (ToU) pricing scheme to domestic users for the first time. Previously limited to commercial and industrial sectors, ToU now allows households and small businesses with Smart Meters to enjoy dynamic pricing based on when they consume electricity.
ToU Time Bands:
<ul>
<li>Weekdays (Monday&ndash;Friday):</li>
<ul>
<li>Peak Hours: 2:00 PM &ndash; 10:00 PM</li>
<li>Off-Peak Hours: 10:00 PM &ndash; 2:00 PM (next day)</li>
</ul>
<li>Weekends (Saturday &amp; Sunday):</li>
<ul>
<li>Off-Peak All Day</li>
</ul>
</ul>
ToU Rates:
<ul>
<li>Usage &le; 1,500 kWh/month:</li>
<ul>
<li>Peak: 28.52 sen/kWh</li>
<li>Off-peak: 24.43 sen/kWh</li>
</ul>
<li>Usage &gt; 1,500 kWh/month:</li>
<ul>
<li>Peak: 38.52 sen/kWh</li>
<li>Off-peak: 34.43 sen/kWh</li>
</ul>
</ul>
Compared to the standard flat rates (27.03 sen/kWh and 37.03 sen/kWh respectively), ToU off-peak usage offers savings of 2.6 sen/kWh.
&nbsp;
Who Can Opt In and How?
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The ToU scheme is optional and available only to users with:
<ul>
<li>A Smart Meter</li>
<li>A Current Transformer (CT) Meter, or</li>
<li>A Remote Meter Reading (RMR) Meter</li>
</ul>
To apply, visit your nearest Kedai Tenaga or check your eligibility via the myTNB app. The switch is not automatic and must be requested manually.
&nbsp;
Understanding the New Bill Layout
Your monthly electricity bill will now be more detailed and transparent, showing:
<ul>
<li>Energy charge per kWh</li>
<li>Monthly AFA adjustment (rebate or surcharge)</li>
<li>Capacity and network charges</li>
<li>RM10 retail charge (waived under 600kWh)</li>
<li>Incentives for efficient energy use</li>
<li>Any applicable taxes and government rebates</li>
</ul>
For example, a household using 800kWh/month would pay an estimated average of 44.5 sen/kWh under the new structure, excluding taxes and AFA&mdash;a marginal improvement from the old tiered system.
&nbsp;
Tools and Strategies for Cost Savings
TNB is also launching an updated bill calculator (available from 23 June 2025) to help users estimate their bills under the new rates. In the meantime, here are some tips:
<ul>
<li>Shift high-energy activities like laundry, water heating, and EV charging to off-peak hours</li>
<li>Monitor usage via the myTNB app</li>
<li>Keep monthly usage below 600kWh to waive the RM10 charge</li>
<li>Consider investing in a solar PV system for long-term cost reduction</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Rebates and Protection for Vulnerable Groups
To ensure inclusivity, rebates and discounts remain in place for targeted communities:
<ul>
<li>RM40/month rebate for hardcore poor (under e-Kasih)</li>
<li>10% discount for:</li>
<ul>
<li>Places of worship</li>
<li>Registered welfare organisations (e.g. orphanages, homes for the elderly or disabled)</li>
<li>Government or partially government-funded institutions</li>
</ul>
</ul>
So, Will Your Electricity Bill Rise or Fall?
According to TNB, most households&mdash;particularly those consuming 900kWh/month or less&mdash;are not expected to see significant increases. In fact, many could benefit from small reductions. However, the final cost may vary based on the AFA adjustment, which is tied to global fuel market trends.
Ultimately, this new tariff structure aims to empower consumers to take control of their electricity use. With greater clarity, flexibility, and tools like ToU pricing and smart metering, Malaysians are better positioned to manage their bills and support national energy efficiency goals.
For more information or to use the bill calculator, visit: <a href="http://www.mytnb.com.my/tariff">www.mytnb.com.my/tariff</a>&nbsp;
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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With new rates kicking in from July 2025, Malaysians might finally see some savings on their electricity bills.

a001d506f1802743a6d9a0a93401e558544b3c0f1763b3747cbbd9c335e0628e

Malaysia’s Electricity Tariff Restructuring 2025: What You Need To Know

Apple is facing a proposed class action lawsuit in the United States after a woman claimed she lost US$80,000 (~RM340,000) through a cryptocurrency scam app downloaded directly from the official Apple App Store.
The lawsuit was filed in California by Danyell Shin, who alleges that the app in question&mdash;Swiftcrypt&mdash;was part of a sophisticated fraud scheme commonly referred to as "pig butchering". The method involves gradually gaining a victim&rsquo;s trust before coaxing them into investing larger sums of money. Once enough funds are deposited, the perpetrators vanish&mdash;locking users out of their accounts and disappearing with the cash.
The Swiftcrypt Scam: Trust Betrayed
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8345d3639b4aec5d8866154452c2bcf5c7358407b2fc7b23e36a41ceaaa6a454" />
Shin reportedly discovered Swiftcrypt in late 2023 or early 2024 through an online investment group. Convinced of its legitimacy&mdash;partly due to its availability on Apple&rsquo;s App Store&mdash;she downloaded the app and began investing, believing she was seeing returns. After following instructions provided within the app, she made successive deposits totalling $80,000. Then, suddenly, her access was revoked and the funds were gone.
In her lawsuit, Shin claims she reasonably relied on Apple&rsquo;s widely publicised assurances that all App Store apps undergo rigorous security screening. By hosting Swiftcrypt, she argues, Apple misled users into believing the app was trustworthy and safe to use.
Apple&rsquo;s &lsquo;Walled Garden&rsquo; Under Scrutiny
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/eb474ae66c57d2e6677a9126d8c7f16e579048cb2d1be48bf6711329c6bbfddc" />
For years, Apple has defended its exclusive App Store ecosystem as a secure and carefully curated platform. From the late Steve Jobs to current executives like Craig Federighi, the tech giant has consistently portrayed the App Store as a bulwark against cybercriminals. Apple often highlights its app review process and routinely markets the App Store as &ldquo;safe&rdquo; and &ldquo;trusted.&rdquo;
Shin&rsquo;s lawsuit challenges those claims. It accuses Apple of misrepresentation and failing in its duty to protect users by allowing a scam app to slip through its vetting process. It also points to the company&rsquo;s monopoly over app distribution on iOS devices as a contributing factor in fostering false confidence among consumers.
&ldquo;Apple has structured its ecosystem so that customers rely on Apple for the perceived safety and reliability of the App Store,&rdquo; the lawsuit argues.
Legal Claims and Broader Implications
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/53f54c80ef9f82e11c3207583554d343e13fbad6dbb2a53873e709dc589e8e86" />
The legal action seeks damages for violations of California&rsquo;s consumer protection and competition laws. It also alleges that Shin &ldquo;overpaid&rdquo; for her iPhone, under the premise that part of the phone&rsquo;s value lies in its supposedly secure App Store.
Beyond individual compensation, the suit calls for corrective advertising to clarify the real security limitations of Apple&rsquo;s platform.
The case has yet to be certified as a class action, which would require the court to determine if there are enough similarly affected individuals to proceed collectively. So far, no other victims from Shin&rsquo;s investment group have publicly joined the case.
A Pattern of Legal Firestorms
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3040a6e38954e82fd1f55bc3cdd5b4cd22a18eadf7b25a6f33eb9397b1ce4fa7" />
This isn&rsquo;t the first time Apple&rsquo;s App Store practices have faced legal challenges. Most notably, the Epic Games v Apple case accused the company of anti-competitive behaviour by mandating the use of its own in-app purchase system, from which Apple takes a 30% commission. Apple largely emerged unscathed from that lawsuit, but it sparked widespread debate about digital marketplaces and monopolistic control.
In the UK, Apple is also facing a separate &pound;1.5 billion (approximately US$2 billion) anti-trust class action trial over similar allegations relating to its App Store policies.
Victim Blaming or Corporate Responsibility?
Some commentators have suggested that Shin shares some responsibility for her losses, noting that Swiftcrypt lacked substantial online presence or regulatory credentials. Critics argue that a basic search might have raised red flags&mdash;highlighting the barebones website and absence of legitimate reviews. Others point to the broader difficulty consumers face in distinguishing genuine apps from scams, especially within a platform marketed as safe by design.
Even so, many agree that the issue highlights the growing sophistication of fraud and the limits of current app review systems&mdash;even those managed by tech titans like Apple.
Apple Yet to Respond
As of now, Apple has not issued any formal response to the lawsuit. The Swiftcrypt app has since been removed from the App Store, and its official website has been taken down. There is no indication whether the company will attempt to settle or fight the lawsuit in court.
Meanwhile, the case underscores growing global scrutiny of major tech companies and the platforms they control. With third-party app stores now emerging in the EU under new regulations such as the Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple&rsquo;s future grip on app distribution may weaken&mdash;but with it, possibly the consistency of app safety as well.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Swiftcrypt scam sparks lawsuit — is the App Store as safe as Apple claims?

77a7d90a23b32e6167d11a9a4c60444bf74ba7c7d92c76af9a5de9d81caed35b

Apple Sued Over Crypto Scam: Woman Loses $80,000 After Downloading Fraudulent App From App Store

A Malaysian company has come under intense public scrutiny after a team-building ice bath challenge left one of its female employees collapsed and unable to stand unaided. What began as a corporate wellness activity quickly turned into a viral controversy&mdash;raising questions about safety protocols, employer responsibility, and the rise of extreme self-improvement culture in the workplace.
From Motivation to Medical Emergency
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/37f623645efafc6a70c81dbd3d462c6368d0cd8d2736922d53af4bc3483b80ab" />
In a video that has since made rounds on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, a young woman is seen participating in a team-building challenge where employees were required to remain submerged in an ice bath for a full 10 minutes. As the footage progresses, it&rsquo;s evident she is in growing physical distress&mdash;her lips turn purple, her face pales, and her body begins to tremble violently.
Despite her deteriorating condition, she pushes through while chanting motivational affirmations like:
&ldquo;I must be myself. I need to break through. I&rsquo;m not afraid of pain or hardship. I&rsquo;m not afraid to cross this road.&rdquo;
<iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1846072592625046&amp;width=500&amp;show_text=true&amp;height=697&amp;appId" width="500" height="697" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Moments after the challenge ends, the woman appears disoriented and unable to stand. Her colleagues rush in, lifting her out of the ice-filled tub and attempting to massage her legs, which are visibly reddened from the prolonged cold exposure. She can be seen slipping into a limp state, sparking real concerns about her physical wellbeing.
Company&rsquo;s Defence: &ldquo;We&rsquo;re Not a Cult&rdquo;
The video sparked immediate online outrage, with many questioning the ethics and legality of such an exercise being carried out in a workplace setting. Critics described the act as dangerous, unnecessary, and even exploitative, with some likening it to cult-like conditioning rather than professional development.
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In response, the company&rsquo;s founder took to Facebook with a strongly-worded post defending the ice bath challenge and dismissing the criticism. She claimed that the event had been conducted under professional medical supervision and insisted that employees were not coerced.
&ldquo;Why do we get criticised? Is it because we&rsquo;re merely a small and medium enterprise (SME)? We&rsquo;re not a cult. We&rsquo;re just a group of women working hard for our dreams,&rdquo; she wrote.
The founder added that the challenge was inspired by similar routines performed by celebrities and influencers, including athletes and politicians, and that it was meant to build resilience, mental strength, and team spirit.
&ldquo;You can laugh at us and criticise all you want, but we will keep working hard for our dreams.&rdquo;
The Ice Bath Trend: More Than Just a Fad
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/459625245446569657581d1aeb6a1932f79e2ee5b5c9ba37de6cf09055787efb" />
The ice bath trend has surged in popularity over the last decade, bolstered initially by the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge in 2014&mdash;a viral campaign aimed at raising awareness and funds for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Since then, ice-related stunts have evolved into more extreme forms, particularly in the health and wellness space.
One of the most influential proponents is Dutch endurance athlete Wim Hof, famously known as &ldquo;The Iceman.&rdquo; Hof&rsquo;s breathing and cold therapy techniques claim to offer a range of benefits including improved immunity, reduced stress, enhanced circulation, and mental clarity.
Athletes use ice baths to aid muscle recovery, and social media has only amplified the visibility of the practice. Malaysian politician Khairy Jamaluddin has shared his own experience with cold exposure therapy. In the US, even former President Donald Trump has been photographed engaging in ice bath routines.
But what works for professional athletes or public figures under expert supervision may not be suitable for the average employee&mdash;especially in corporate settings where implied pressure and hierarchy can complicate consent.
Health Risks: What the Experts Say
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/36e740e09719142fcb4f50932d180e086cbf80cabec0b04a942fe486b9a94741" />
Medical professionals have repeatedly warned about the dangers of prolonged cold water immersion, particularly for individuals with no prior exposure or training.
Cold exposure for more than a few minutes can trigger hypothermia, fainting, or even cardiac arrest, depending on the individual&rsquo;s health, body composition, and the water temperature. Experts recommend limiting exposure to 3&ndash;5 minutes for beginners, with gradual adaptation and close monitoring by healthcare professionals.
The video raised concerns not just about the duration but also about whether informed consent was given, if participants were properly briefed, and if adequate emergency measures were in place.
Netizens React: Divided Opinions and Heated Debate
The online reaction has been mixed. While many condemned the company for prioritising spectacle over safety, others voiced support for the founder&rsquo;s defence of mental toughness. Others questioned whether employees could truly opt out of such challenges without fear of judgement or retaliation, especially in closely-knit or high-pressure work environments.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments. Do note that some comments may not be 100% accurate due to translation:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/cfe0223b685dbda36cec7c8b80a7586bf877da6f8b8afe2e2d8bd546ab7b9987" />
Corporate Wellness or Cult Mentality?
Team-building activities are typically designed to foster camaraderie, improve communication, and offer a break from routine. But when the line between motivation and manipulation becomes blurred, the risks&mdash;not just physical but psychological&mdash;can outweigh the intended benefits.
Experts say that corporate wellness should focus on inclusivity, emotional safety, and individual boundaries, rather than pushing employees to breaking point under the guise of empowerment.
While some employees may thrive on high-stakes challenges, for others, it may lead to trauma, burnout, or deteriorated trust in leadership.
Lessons Learned: Where Do We Draw the Line?
This controversy serves as a cautionary tale for Malaysian companies&mdash;and corporates around the world&mdash;about the need for careful planning, clear safety measures, and informed consent when introducing wellness or team-building programmes.
HR professionals and company leaders must ask themselves:
<ul>
<li>Is the activity evidence-based and safe?</li>
<li>Is it inclusive and accessible to all employees?</li>
<li>Have medical professionals been properly involved?</li>
<li>Is participation genuinely voluntary?</li>
</ul>
Without these safeguards, the pursuit of resilience and team spirit can result in very real harm&mdash;and potentially legal consequences.
The Aftermath
As of now, the company involved has not issued an apology or confirmed whether any internal review or changes to its wellness programmes are being considered. The female employee who collapsed has not spoken publicly, and her medical condition remains unclear.
The conversation around corporate wellness, employee rights, and viral trends continues online&mdash;reflecting a growing public awareness that while ambition and innovation are welcome in the workplace, employee safety must always come first.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Cold plunges can be great—but not for 10 minutes. Know your limits.

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