Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

viral

tiktok

cute

Oyen

Zoo Negara

capybara

visitors

attraction

superstar

Have you been to our Zoo Negara recently?
Usually, our trips to the zoo are aimed at glimpsing rare animals that aren't typically found in the wild here in Malaysia, like Ostriches and the iconic Pandas hailing from China.
But looks like our Zoo Negara has been doing very well lately as they shared that they&rsquo;ve received an increase in visitors over the recent months thanks to &ldquo;Oyen The Cat&rdquo;.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2202b9beb895e1e9266ab544505da516a64ed9a95448f25b103b2af63a8ecd20" />
&ldquo;Oyen&rdquo; the ginger cat had been a hit on social media and resides in the Capybara enclosure. Despite it being a different animal, it looks like Oyen has been doing well as he&rsquo;s been vibing with them, joining them for feeding time and even naps.
Oyen was once an abandoned cat and went viral a few years ago when visitors started spotting him in the Capybara enclosure. Though unclear when he joined the community, he was spotted by staff during feeding time during the pandemic and has since been cared for by the Zoo.
Hitting Over 3,000 Visitors On Weekends
According to Zoo Negara vice president Rosly@Rahmat Ahmat Lana, the presence of Oyen and his friendship with the Capybaras over the past three years has been the reason 95% of visitors visit the national zoo.
&ldquo;Oyen is very popular, that&rsquo;s why I call him The Star of Zoo Negara. The number of visitors has doubled, especially on weekends,&rdquo; he said.
Here&rsquo;s When Zoo Negara Made A Special Sign For Oyen: 
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@znmzoonegara/video/7248466403185937682" data-video-id="7248466403185937682">
<section><a title="@znmzoonegara" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@znmzoonegara?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@znmzoonegara</a> Haaa oyen pun dah ada signage sendiri 🔥 Mungkin next Roren kita pulak? Korang belum kenal Roren kan 😉 <a title="oyen" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/oyen?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#oyen</a> <a title="oyenbarbar" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/oyenbarbar?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#oyenbarbar</a> <a title="masbro" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/masbro?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#masbro</a> <a title="capybara" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/capybara?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#capybara</a> <a title="zoonegara" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/zoonegara?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#zoonegara</a> <a title="zoonegaramalaysia" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/zoonegaramalaysia?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#zoonegaramalaysia</a> <a title="zoonegaramalaysia2023" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/zoonegaramalaysia2023?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#zoonegaramalaysia2023</a> <a title="♬ girls like me don't cry (sped up) - thuy" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/girls-like-me-don't-cry-sped-up-7177031160675960834?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ girls like me don't cry (sped up) - thuy</a></section>
</blockquote>
Unfortunately, if you were to visit the zoo now, the sign is not there after it was damaged. However, a special event to put up a new signage for Oyen was held on 8 August in conjunction with World Cat Day.
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@roslylana/video/7264920785687563522" data-video-id="7264920785687563522">
<section><a title="@roslylana" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@roslylana?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@roslylana</a> 08 Ogos 2023 Sesi pemasangan papan tanda Oyen di pameran Capybara. Oyen bintang Zoo Negara <a title="internationalcatday" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/internationalcatday?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#internationalcatday</a><a title="cat" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/cat?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#cat</a><a title="oyen" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/oyen?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#oyen</a><a title="starofzoonegara" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/starofzoonegara?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#starofZooNegara</a><a title="zoonegara" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/zoonegara?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#ZooNegara</a><a title="zoonegaramalaysia" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/zoonegaramalaysia?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#ZooNegaraMalaysia</a><a title="zoonegaramalaysia2023" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/zoonegaramalaysia2023?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#ZooNegaraMalaysia2023</a> <a title="♬ original sound - Rosly Lana" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-Rosly-Lana-7264920835880782594?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ original sound - Rosly Lana</a></section>
</blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>

Wanting To Continue Oyen&rsquo;s Legacy
As Oyen has been very popular with visitors and those on Social Media, Rosly said that the zoo plans to continue on his legacy and that the staff are trying to find a partner of the same breed and age as Oyen so they can have children.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3b1b2cf56ff2ed94ac0c194c18a6acb0adebcd272c0fb318bcdd77b1c2f2f33e" />
However, this will be quite a challenge for the zoo to accomplish as Oyen does not like to share the spotlight with other cars, even if it's with a female cat.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/2660/zoo-negaras-oyen-faces-rivalry-as-another-cat-intrudes-capybara-enclosure">Zoo Negara's Oyen Faces Rivalry As Another Cat Intrudes Capybara Enclosure</a>
For now, the zoo has pledged its commitment to care for Oyen by providing him with nutritious food and always monitoring his health status. These days, Oyen has become increasingly more approachable which is a plus point for zoo keepers to attend to him in case he falls sick said Rosly.
It&rsquo;s very admirable that Zoo Negara is taking care of Oyen treating him just like other animals in the zoo. Hopefully, they&rsquo;ll be able to find him a partner soon enough and his legacy will continue in the zoo. 
Maybe it&rsquo;s time to visit the zoo soon and help boost up its income to give the best possible care to the animals there.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, Bernama, TikTok &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The zoo had more than 3,000 visitors over the weekend and they are currently looking for a partner for him! 

a3461f019d9712ee67b3735bd8366cd1a5d08629c3a843b684b4dc638e19e732

‘Oyen The Cat’ Becomes Zoo Negara’s Superstar After Drawing 95% Of Visitors

Fun, fierce, and fast-paced &mdash; pickleball is making waves among university students, and it&rsquo;s stepping into the spotlight with a tournament like no other.
Move over futsal and badminton &mdash; there&rsquo;s a new sport in town, and it&rsquo;s rallying a community of young Malaysians. Pickleball, a quirky yet addictive mix of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has been gaining traction around the world. Now, it&rsquo;s finally getting its moment here with Malaysia&rsquo;s very first Inter-University Pickleball Tournament, and it&rsquo;s happening right in the heart of Klang Valley this July 2025.
If you&rsquo;ve never heard of pickleball before, you&rsquo;re not alone &mdash; but that&rsquo;s the point. This tournament is not just for seasoned players. It&rsquo;s designed for beginners and curious students who want to try something new, have a laugh, and maybe get a bit competitive while they&rsquo;re at it.
What&rsquo;s the Big Deal About Pickleball?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/124270c265b1251be0da1ba34c261f8f0d9e64cc2436bf53fe433ee5b1d0fae1" />
Pickleball has been dubbed the fastest-growing sport in the United States, with celebrities and athletes singing its praises. It&rsquo;s easy to pick up, fun to play, and &mdash; perhaps most importantly &mdash; brings people together. The upcoming Inter-Uni Tournament, organised by Monsta Asia and sponsored by JD Sports, is hoping to do just that: unite students from across Klang Valley in a fast-paced weekend of rallies, smashes, and plenty of banter.
And it&rsquo;s not just a one-off event &mdash; the tournament is built around a whole calendar of lead-up activities. Throughout May, participating students have been able to join Bootcamp sessions, where they can learn the basics and get a feel for the game. Then in June, casual Open Uni Games give players a chance to warm up, get social, and meet fellow pickleballers before the real competition begins.
The main event kicks off 12 and 13 July at The Pickle Grounds, One World Hotel, with Mixed Doubles and Men&rsquo;s Doubles categories open to Novice-level players (defined as a DUPR rating below 3.25). Each of the five participating universities will send six teams per category, turning the weekend into a showdown of pride, skill, and hopefully not too many unforced errors.
Not Just a Sport &mdash; A Whole Vibe
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c87194f0bd1759c663b13f3646424f8030878fa4c5069382e71bd684964717d1" />
Beyond the matches, the tournament promises more than just who wins or loses. Expect a lively atmosphere with lifestyle activities, interactive booths, and a buzzing crowd. Whether you&rsquo;re playing, cheering from the sidelines, or just there for the vibes, there&rsquo;ll be plenty happening on and off the court.
It&rsquo;s also a refreshing addition to the university event calendar. While most inter-varsity competitions stick to traditional sports, this one is all about discovery, inclusion, and having fun &mdash; with just the right amount of heat to keep it exciting.
How to Join?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/677cbd29aec60c53d701974ca52e853c74ae77c5546184b0d7d096cf9293f40b" />
If you&rsquo;re a student at a university in Klang Valley and want in, you&rsquo;re in luck. Registration is open now at RM100 per team, and it closes on 20 June 2025 at 11:59pm. The tournament is open to beginners only &mdash; so there&rsquo;s no need to worry about going up against national-level players.
All you need is a teammate, a willingness to try something new, and a little competitive spirit. Whether you&rsquo;re in it for the glory, the friendships, or just to break a sweat &mdash; you won&rsquo;t want to miss this.
👉 Sign up here: <a href="https://ss88.my/interunipickleball/">https://ss88.my/interunipickleball/</a> 📱 Follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gomonsta/?hl=en">@gomonsta</a> on Instagram for updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes action.
Final Rally
In a world where screen time often wins out over court time, pickleball is a chance to unplug, team up, and tap into something fresh. This tournament is about more than who takes home the trophy &mdash; it&rsquo;s about being part of a new movement in Malaysian campus life.
So, are you ready to serve?
&nbsp;
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

Time to rally — can you take the crown home for your uni?

e3ce521fc89dbe57b3b10091997dc6363a4dc20be60c5469f2296aef2c770ece

Pickleball Fever Hits Klang Valley: Malaysia’s First Inter-Uni Tournament Arrives This July

What began as an ordinary late-night drive through the streets of George Town turned into a terrifying ordeal for a young woman, after a confrontation on the road allegedly escalated into a violent and humiliating assault involving a firearm. The alleged assailant? A man bearing the prestigious title of &lsquo;Datuk Seri&rsquo;.
The shocking incident, which unfolded in the early hours of 1 June, has not only sparked public outrage but also raised troubling questions about the ease with which influential individuals in Malaysia obtain and wield firearms &mdash; sometimes, quite literally, against unarmed members of the public.
Pistol Allegedly Shoved Into Victim&rsquo;s Mouth
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/84f4de22c570a414443c17787366f4b3068c576cb58b19213eac4958155a051c" />
According to the police report filed by the 28-year-old victim, the confrontation escalated rapidly and turned violent. The suspect was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time. He is said to have brandished a gold-coloured pistol and, in a deeply disturbing act of aggression and humiliation, forced the weapon into the woman's mouth.
He then allegedly pistol-whipped her, using the grip of the firearm to strike her face, causing severe injuries. The suspect also reportedly punched her repeatedly in the face using both the weapon and his bare hands. The victim sustained a broken nose and bruising around her left eye as a result of the attack.
Following the incident, she received emergency treatment at Penang General Hospital before filing a formal complaint with the Northeast District Police at 5.57pm the same day.
Suspect Turns Himself In, Firearm and Licence Confiscated
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e442e5a1e9e24417e70c829343ba4f71cce35bbeb535ad411752c607f4d24202" />
Two days after the violent episode, on 3 June, the suspect turned himself in at the Northeast District Police Headquarters at approximately 9.30am. Police confirmed that he was taken into custody and that a pistol, its magazine, and his licence to possess the weapon and ammunition were seized as part of the investigation.
Northeast District Police Chief, ACP Abdul Rozak Muhammad, confirmed the details in an official statement. The case is being investigated under Section 326 of the Penal Code for voluntarily causing grievous hurt using a dangerous weapon, and Section 34 of the Arms Act 1960, which prohibits the use or possession of firearms while intoxicated.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7XhNQ0imwEM?si=GVXL-6S0uuTOf7VT" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Alcohol Allegation Adds Gravity to the Case
While formal toxicology results have not been publicly disclosed, the victim&rsquo;s report stated that the suspect appeared to be drunk during the attack. This allegation, if substantiated, would have significant legal implications under the Arms Act. It also intensifies public concern about the alleged recklessness with which the weapon was used.
The police have not confirmed whether a breathalyser or blood alcohol test was administered when the suspect surrendered.
Firearm Ownership Among VIPs Under Renewed Scrutiny
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1e5b0746df960864cfe48ea3757490aba9513efd4235e41b7a4130575f798d12" />
This case has prompted renewed national debate about how individuals, particularly those with titles or political influence, are granted firearm licences in Malaysia. It is legal for civilians to own firearms under stringent conditions, and licences are typically issued by the Royal Malaysia Police. However, critics argue that enforcement and vetting processes for VIPs may be less rigorous, particularly when titles are self-conferred or awarded through non-governmental channels.
With the suspect in this case holding a &lsquo;Datuk Seri&rsquo; title&mdash;an honorific often associated with social status and influence&mdash;there is rising public scepticism about whether such individuals receive preferential treatment in matters involving the law.
Public Reaction and Calls for Accountability
The brutality of the attack, combined with the apparent misuse of a licensed firearm, has shocked many Malaysians. Social media platforms have been flooded with commentary condemning the incident and demanding accountability, not just for the suspect, but for the system that allows powerful individuals to own deadly weapons.
Legal analysts have pointed out that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for future prosecutions involving firearms and high-profile individuals.
Police Urge Witnesses to Assist Investigation
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e034645964dd4533ff3246b3dadaa1640f73ba635403497f1a7f86311dd96ec8" />
Authorities are continuing their probe and have called on any witnesses or individuals with dashcam footage from the scene to come forward to assist in the investigation. Meanwhile, the victim is said to be cooperating fully with the police.
The suspect remains under investigation, and his remand status has not yet been publicly disclosed. As of now, no charges have been formally filed, but police say the evidence collected so far&mdash;including the weapon, license, and victim&rsquo;s medical records&mdash;will form the basis of the prosecution.
A Case That Reflects Larger Issues
Beyond the immediate legal ramifications, this incident highlights broader issues surrounding road rage, firearm control, alcohol-related violence, and perceived impunity among members of Malaysia&rsquo;s elite.
The public awaits further updates from the authorities, while many hope the case will spur long-overdue reforms in firearm licensing and the treatment of VIPs under the law.
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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Who is Authorising Firearms to these "wannabe gangster" Datuk Seri’s?

d4344334aeb1936569cd7d687208e8f656a72a4bb9a28196af8be6eb88e9c10c

‘Datuk Seri’ Arrested After Allegedly Shoving Pistol Into Woman’s Mouth During Violent Road Rage Incident In Penang

What should have been a moment of celebration for Malaysian fans of South Korean superstar G-Dragon has turned into a firestorm of controversy. The upcoming G-DRAGON 2025 World Tour [&Uuml;bermensch], scheduled for 19 and 20 July 2025 at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil, is now under intense scrutiny following allegations of ticket scalping, insider access, and a lack of transparency from the event organiser, Star Planet Malaysia.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4336/g-dragons-kl-concert-marred-by-scalpers-and-ticketing-chaos-as-malaysian-fans-cry-foul">G-Dragon&rsquo;s KL Concert Marred By Scalpers And Ticketing Chaos As Malaysian Fans Cry Foul</a>
The backlash began shortly after tickets went on pre-sale in late May. Fans quickly raised the alarm over what appeared to be widespread abuse of the purchasing system. Allegations soon surfaced that foreign buyers had successfully bypassed regional restrictions, gaining access to tickets meant for Malaysian fans. The issue snowballed when individuals on social media openly bragged about hoarding hundreds of tickets &mdash; many of which were promptly listed for resale at exorbitant prices.
Official Statement Promises Action: 254 Tickets Cancelled and Re-Released
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c575edb90643a53bee82313c93a80a3d48c7dba79ccecf087deb6665cb6f449b" />
In response to the uproar, Star Planet issued a formal statement assuring the public that it was taking the matter seriously. The organiser claimed that, following an internal investigation, a batch of tickets found to be involved in scalping activities had been identified and subsequently voided.
&ldquo;To ensure fair access for genuine fans, all voided tickets will be re-released for public sale on 6th June 2025 at 2:00 PM,&rdquo; read the statement. In total, 254 tickets will be made available across the two concert dates:
<ul>
<li>19 July 2025:</li>
<ul>
<li>VIP: 81</li>
<li>CAT 1: 23</li>
</ul>
<li>20 July 2025:</li>
<ul>
<li>VVIP: 6</li>
<li>VIP: 82</li>
<li>CAT 1: 34</li>
<li>CAT 2: 28</li>
</ul>
</ul>
The organiser also pledged to continue monitoring all ticket activity and to apply the same strict measures in the event of further scalping discoveries.
Scepticism Over Figures and Perceived Lack of Accountability
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/59542c3a9617af9681005045f6b25fc5d687f2fbfaac3ae6d85de91ba9c5d949" />
Despite the announcement, fans remain sceptical. Many have questioned how only 254 tickets were affected, especially when at least two individuals were seen openly boasting online about securing over 300 tickets between them during both the pre-sale and general sale periods. The mismatch between these claims and the organiser&rsquo;s figures has led to suspicions that the scale of the problem may be larger than disclosed.
Several fans have also pointed out the sheer scale of the venue &mdash; Axiata Arena has a capacity of approximately 16,000. As such, many believe there should be significantly more tickets available or reallocated, especially considering the speed with which tickets sold out during the initial sale.
Allegations of Insider Sales and Unofficial Distribution Channels
Amid the confusion, rumours have spread that a portion of high-demand tickets were distributed internally or to individuals with special connections. Although Star Planet did not directly address this concern, it did attempt to reassure the public, stating in its Facebook post that &ldquo;a substantial portion of tickets were indeed purchased by genuine fans.&rdquo;
The organiser was also quick to deny any affiliations with third-party sellers or unauthorised distributors. It reiterated that BookMyShow is the sole official platform for ticket purchases and warned fans that buying from scalpers or unverified sources could result in denied entry.
&ldquo;We would like to firmly reiterate that the organisers have no affiliation or collaboration with any individuals or unauthorised channels for ticket sales,&rdquo; the statement read. &ldquo;We strongly urge fans not to purchase from scalpers or unauthorised sources &mdash; doing so risks denied entry and undermines fair access for all.&rdquo;
Fans Demand Transparency as Tensions Mount
Social media platforms have since been flooded with calls for greater transparency and accountability. Some fans are demanding a full audit of ticket sales, while others are calling for the release of additional tickets or at least an explanation regarding the low number of reissued seats. Several prominent fan accounts have also called for Star Planet to conduct an external review to restore public trust.
While some concertgoers have accepted the organiser&rsquo;s explanation, many feel that more must be done to ensure fair access, particularly for dedicated fans who lost out due to the scalping fiasco.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b86cb19fe976a847b74fc2b8e9697bc02462e4fef62211fb694d3b7230cc4fe2" />
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
CANCEL THE WHOLE THING AND REDO IT WITH HONOR AND PROFESSIONALLY. UPGRADE THE SYSTEM!
&mdash; P 🦊🐉 (@peachaenine) <a href="https://twitter.com/peachaenine/status/1930019708381938024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
dah boleh kot tambah maklumat wajib kena masukkan ic. setakat bawah 300, sorang dua je rakyat malaysia yg dapat nanti😀
&mdash; D 🍑🐥 (@gongzhuju) <a href="https://twitter.com/gongzhuju/status/1930071813641646357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
lmao.. only 254 tix bought by scalpers and bot???? joke of the day
&mdash; A Nuna (@A_Nuna_) <a href="https://twitter.com/A_Nuna_/status/1930068186059419970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Will More Tickets Be Released Before the Concert?
As anticipation builds for G-Dragon&rsquo;s return to Malaysia &mdash; one of the most anticipated K-pop events of the year &mdash; the pressure is on for Star Planet to take further action. Fans are hopeful that additional batches of cancelled or returned tickets may still be released before the event, potentially giving another chance to those who missed out.
Whether the organiser&rsquo;s current measures are enough to put concerns to rest remains uncertain. For now, all attention is on the 6th June ticket re-release, which may serve as a litmus test for the organiser&rsquo;s commitment to fairness, transparency, and fan satisfaction.
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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The odds of these tickets being snapped up by scalpers again? Pretty high, if you ask us.

6b4862694f8913c4c954711b6649970937117050079d1aa9aabe1851f2ba4e70

G-Dragon Concert Organisers Announce New Ticket Sale Date, But Fans Remain Sceptical Over Transparency

AirAsia MOVE, the travel superapp under Capital A Berhad, is facing intense backlash in the Philippines following allegations that it inflated airfares during a time of urgent public need. What was intended to be a seamless travel platform is now under investigation for potential &ldquo;economic sabotage&rdquo;&mdash;a serious criminal offence in the country.
The controversy erupted when several users reported being quoted airfares that were significantly higher than standard prices, particularly for domestic routes. The most widely reported case involved a one-way flight from Manila to Tacloban City, sold through AirAsia MOVE for PHP77,000 (approximately RM5,880)&mdash;almost three times the fare listed on the official Philippine Airlines website.
Bridge Closure Triggers Surge in Air Travel Demand
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/417844df5b2c6c2b56e6d71e8201487ec65a0fb92eb9f83bed60d22bb3c630ea" />
The situation was exacerbated by the partial closure of the San Juanico Bridge, a 2.16-kilometre structure and the primary transport link between the islands of Samar and Leyte. The Philippine government temporarily restricted access to prevent structural deterioration, which in turn led to a surge in air travel demand, as travellers had few other alternatives.
Philippine Transport Secretary Vince Dizon accused AirAsia MOVE of capitalising on the crisis. He shared the experience of Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez, who was charged nearly PHP40,000 (~RM3,053) for a one-way flight from Tacloban to Manila, a route that usually costs around PHP12,000 (~RM916).
In response to mounting public outrage, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) issued a cease-and-desist order against AirAsia MOVE, effectively suspending the platform&rsquo;s operations in the country. Dizon added that the Philippine government would be filing a case of criminal economic sabotage against the company, with further investigations to be carried out by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police&rsquo;s Anti-Cybercrime Group, who have been instructed to restrict access to the app.
AirAsia MOVE: &ldquo;We Do Not Set Prices&rdquo;
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/55eb4a16a2014bae420f56ebe8893d08cc8766065a4b7c06bce198b6f86772bf" />
In its defence, AirAsia MOVE has strongly denied any wrongdoing. The platform maintains that it does not manually manipulate or set airfares. Instead, as an Online Travel Agency (OTA), it acts as a digital storefront that displays flight availability and prices as received from authorised upstream suppliers, including third-party aggregators and Global Distribution Systems (GDS).
According to AirAsia MOVE&rsquo;s Chief Executive Officer Nadia Omer, the discrepancies were caused by a technical issue&mdash;specifically, a temporary data synchronisation error with the platform&rsquo;s flight pricing partners.
&ldquo;This technical discrepancy was not isolated to MOVE,&rdquo; Omer said in an official statement. &ldquo;Other booking platforms such as Agoda, Kiwi.com, and Traveloka were also affected by the same pricing issue.&rdquo;
She added that as soon as the issue was identified, AirAsia MOVE took immediate corrective action and reported the matter to its third-party pricing provider for resolution. In addition, the platform has implemented new safeguards to ensure similar issues do not occur in future.
Platform Claims Full Compliance and Cooperation
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/92b7095612ed8c6aedf4151cd82c2a6759bc2777f9f2d70d29d57edd46c88e95" />
AirAsia MOVE has expressed its willingness to work with Philippine regulators and stressed that it has always operated in full compliance with all rules applicable to online travel agencies. The company also welcomed the opportunity to clarify its role and urged authorities to allow due process to take its course.
In a press release, AirAsia MOVE reaffirmed its commitment to fair pricing, consumer protection, and transparency. It described the current controversy as a data-driven misunderstanding rather than any deliberate act of misconduct.
The platform emphasised that it had no incentive to manipulate fares, especially for routes it does not directly operate. Philippine Airlines, the national flag carrier, was the airline involved in the disputed pricing&mdash;indicating that the problem stemmed from third-party listings rather than AirAsia&rsquo;s own flight operations.
Impact on Travellers and Broader Implications
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/abbd334e0bd2a5d325a92750158407c111f2ff80f913576d3a6683c6482f10e2" />
This incident has raised broader concerns about accountability in digital travel platforms, especially those that aggregate flight data from multiple sources. Consumers often assume these platforms offer the best available rates, but price discrepancies&mdash;whether accidental or not&mdash;can severely impact public trust, particularly during times of crisis.
The fact that this issue unfolded during an infrastructure-related transport emergency has only heightened public sentiment. Many Filipinos have expressed frustration on social media, accusing tech companies of exploiting vulnerable travellers for profit. Others have called for tighter regulations and more transparency in how digital travel apps operate and source their fares.
Support for Tourism Despite Setback
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/50a361768b6b16a064773fc10ba9d7c286f57409f1a8fe6fb3586e425d726286" />
Despite the ongoing investigation, AirAsia MOVE highlighted its continued support for the Philippine tourism sector. Since its launch in the country, the platform has facilitated strong growth in domestic bookings, with 85% of demand focused on destinations like Manila, Cebu, and Boracay. The company also claims to have played a key role in boosting international arrivals, citing a 28% year-on-year increase in overseas travel into the Philippines via its platform.
&ldquo;As an ASEAN-focused brand, we remain committed to making regional travel more accessible and affordable,&rdquo; the company stated. &ldquo;We will continue to engage constructively with all relevant authorities and improve our systems for the benefit of all users.&rdquo;
Awaiting Resolution
As of now, there is no word on whether the cease-and-desist order has been lifted. AirAsia MOVE remains offline in the Philippines while investigations continue. The company&rsquo;s future in one of Southeast Asia&rsquo;s key travel markets may depend on the outcome of this case&mdash;and whether it can prove that its pricing discrepancies were indeed the result of technical faults, not predatory intent.
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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Platform faces cease-and-desist order and economic sabotage case.

ac0ef02664eb8fa23d25b23f5ea4a185c5000c55e58fdeca8e1561edd806a26d

AirAsia MOVE Under Fire In the Philippines Over Alleged Fare Inflation

How much is Debt How much is Flex? B day for Daughter or for herself?
A Malaysian entrepreneur has captured national attention &mdash; and divided opinion &mdash; after throwing a lavish RM1 million birthday party for her 11-year-old daughter. The extravagant celebration, shared across social media platforms, featured luxury gifts and heartfelt messages, but also sparked debate over parenting, privilege, and public displays of wealth.
A Million-Ringgit Surprise
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3162d0e8aa100e7038017ff537ec3913b2029fc2f6c8855e63a974d1d9c46c4e" />
The entrepreneur, identified as Farhana Zahra, went viral after posting a series of videos showcasing an elaborate birthday celebration for her daughter, affectionately called Yaya. The event was marked by pink-themed decorations, formally dressed guests in black attire, and a string of high-value surprises.
Farhana explained that she had intentionally pretended to forget her daughter&rsquo;s birthday in order to create a more dramatic surprise on the day. The party revealed not only a grand setup but an impressive list of gifts that left many viewers stunned.
Among the presents gifted to the young girl were:
<ul>
<li>A brand-new Apple desktop computer</li>
<li>A Rolex watch</li>
<li>A Toyota Vellfire, a luxury MPV</li>
</ul>
Farhana wrote in one of the video captions:
&ldquo;I purposely acted like I forgot her birthday because I had planned everything. Yaya even told me, &lsquo;Mama, I thought you forgot my birthday.&rsquo;&rdquo;
She added:
&ldquo;Forgive Mama&hellip; this is all I could afford to give you. I only spent RM1 million for this birthday.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@farhanazahra91/video/7510903158978252050" data-video-id="7510903158978252050">
<section><a title="@farhanazahra91" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@farhanazahra91?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@farhanazahra91</a> Selamat ulang tahun Yaya yang ke 11 tahun, besar da anak mama, semoga cita-cita untuk menjadi business women berjaya menjadi kenyataan 🥺 <a title="farhanazahra91" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/farhanazahra91?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#farhanazahra91</a> <a title="farhanazahra" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/farhanazahra?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#farhanazahra</a> <a title="cikna" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/cikna?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#cikna</a> <a title="♬ original sound - Farhana Zahra" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-Farhana-Zahra-7510903224774249233?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ original sound - Farhana Zahra</a></section>
</blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>

Lavish Spending or Love on Display?
Farhana&rsquo;s gesture was framed as an act of love for her daughter, whom she claims already has her every wish fulfilled on a near-daily basis. She admitted struggling to decide what to give Yaya on her birthday since there was little left that the child did not already have.
&ldquo;All of Yaya&rsquo;s desires have been granted almost every day. So when her birthday came around, I was truly at a loss for what to give her,&rdquo; Farhana said.
Despite describing the lavish celebration as a &ldquo;small gift&rdquo;, the statement sparked a wave of mixed reactions online.
A Gift for the Former Driver Too
In a separate video, Farhana is also seen surprising her daughter&rsquo;s former driver with a luxury car as a gesture of appreciation, further adding to the extravagance and conversation surrounding the event.
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@farhanazahra91/video/7511243237760240903" data-video-id="7511243237760240903">
<section><a title="@farhanazahra91" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@farhanazahra91?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@farhanazahra91</a> Begini rasanya bila kita dapat buat orang happy ! Menangis cikna tengok video ni 😭😭😭 <a title="farhanazahra91" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/farhanazahra91?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#farhanazahra91</a> <a title="farhanazahra" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/farhanazahra?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#farhanazahra</a> <a title="cikna" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/cikna?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#cikna</a> <a title="♬ original sound - Farhana Zahra" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-Farhana-Zahra-7511243424108989200?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ original sound - Farhana Zahra</a></section>
</blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>

Social Media Reacts: Admiration and Criticism
Online reaction was swift and polarising. While some viewers praised Farhana for her hard work and for going to such lengths to make her child happy, others were far more critical.
Some comments mocked the idea of gifting such expensive items to a child who is far from the legal driving age.
&ldquo;What would a little girl do with a Rolex? Use it during her Barbie tea party?&rdquo; quipped one user.
Others questioned the public sharing of the RM1 million price tag and speculated on Farhana&rsquo;s motives. A few even raised concerns about financial transparency, with jokes about tax evasion and whether the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) should investigate.
&ldquo;She put the car under her daughter&rsquo;s name so her assets can&rsquo;t be seized,&rdquo; speculated one netizen. &ldquo;People like this still get fuel subsidies like RON95,&rdquo; another commented cynically.
More serious concerns were also voiced, particularly around the expectations such extravagant gifts might create for the future. One user warned that raising children with such luxury at an early age could distort their values.
&ldquo;Be prepared &mdash; when you start this big, you&rsquo;ll need to go bigger every year. Not even their friends can keep up,&rdquo; said another comment.
Here&rsquo;s some of the other comments by netizens:
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/31b839576c709c8a45d08c3e63cef2c838813ec1ea17395b3f53b07f4d525852" />
A Mother's Wish for Her Daughter
Despite the backlash, Farhana remained focused on what she described as the core of her celebration &mdash; her daughter's happiness.
In the birthday message shared on TikTok, she wrote:
&ldquo;Happy 11th birthday, Yaya. You&rsquo;re growing up so fast. May your dream of becoming a successful businesswoman come true.&rdquo;
Whether seen as over-the-top indulgence or a heartfelt gesture of motherly love, the viral celebration has undeniably ignited conversations across Malaysia about wealth, parenting, and what it means to show affection in the digital age.
Ed's Notes:
Some Free Ideas from MYC's Editor .. How about opening a BTC account for the Child or a Stock account with BYD shares or visiting a Children's Hospital to give treats to Kids there - to learn the real Gift of Life on a Birthday ?
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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Meanwhile, most Malaysians are grateful just to enjoy a slice of cake on their birthday.

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