Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

fashion

controversy

employee

accusation

opinion

bullying

Christy Ng

defends

In Malaysia, there's a common stereotype where we often judge successful individuals solely by their achievements. It's no secret that many Malaysians, regardless of their status, have faced criticism at some point. However, those who attract the most scrutiny tend to be the more controversial figures, particularly within the fashion industry.
If you're a supporter of local talent, you might be familiar with the fashion brand Christy Ng, which has unfortunately been accused of design plagiarism by both local and international brands multiple times in the past.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/cb46aff3efb40018286b6f1432da0a78186323917c8ce747453fe94ccf03cd72" />
Some examples include similarities between her handbag collection and designs from Dior and Goyard, as well as accusations that her shoes resemble those from the homegrown brand Machino.
Who Is Christy Ng?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5dfac056edede3d13fdfb071b4afd3c9ba5dfd96eb038aef12c3b3a1d080edce" />
Christy Ng is a celebrated Malaysian fashion designer and entrepreneur, best known for founding Christy Ng Shoes, a brand that has become synonymous with bespoke, stylish, and accessible footwear. Launched in 2010 from her home, Christy started by selling her creations online, quickly gaining popularity for her unique approach to custom-made shoes that combined traditional craftsmanship with modern design aesthetics. Her brand has since expanded to include handbags and other accessories, solidifying its place in the Malaysian fashion scene and beyond.
Christy Ng Shoes is particularly known for its innovative customization options, allowing customers to personalize colors, materials, and even heel heights to create shoes that perfectly suit their individual style. This level of personalization, combined with the brand&rsquo;s focus on comfort and quality, has won Christy a loyal following. Her designs range from elegant wedding shoes to versatile everyday styles, catering to a diverse clientele with varying tastes and needs.
Over the years, Christy Ng has grown her brand into a successful retail business with multiple stores across Malaysia, as well as a strong e-commerce platform that reaches customers worldwide. Her work has been featured in prominent fashion publications, and she has collaborated with various brands and organizations, further cementing her influence in the fashion industry. Known for her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to empowering women, Christy continues to innovate and expand her brand, remaining a prominent figure in Malaysian fashion and a source of inspiration for aspiring designers.
Controversy Sparks Up All Over Again
Despite the previous controversies fading and the allegations becoming less prominent, the company has been performing well and showing no signs of slowing down. However, it seems that many of her past allegations have resurfaced following a recent video featuring CEO Christy Ng preparing a surprise for her staff. This video quickly prompted many onlookers to remind the public of her alleged misdeeds, reigniting the conversation surrounding her past controversies.
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@christyemilylove/video/7421782846681009416" data-video-id="7421782846681009416">
<section><a title="@christyemilylove" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@christyemilylove?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@christyemilylove</a>
I may not be lucky in many things but when it comes to my team, I&rsquo;ve got the best one in the world. To the amazing people I work with every other day - you guys make the journey an unforgettable one. When handed possibilities, you guys just turn them into miracles 🤗
<a title="♬ original sound - Christy Ng 💛" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-Christy-Ng-💛-7421782951119063809?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ original sound - Christy Ng 💛</a></section>
</blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>

Recently, Christy Ng shared a video showcasing her thoughtful gesture of hiding RM50 notes along with handwritten messages in her employees' bags as a surprise to show her appreciation for their loyalty and hard work. While this post may appear heartwarming, X user with the handle <a href="https://x.com/holiltheV/status/1844759669757083750">@holiltheV</a> took the opportunity to remind everyone of the times when the CEO faced accusations of mistreating her interns and staff. &ldquo;Just a reminder that this person bullied her interns and reduced her staff&rsquo;s maternity leaves,&rdquo; the netizen asserted.
For context, back in 2017, a former intern shared her challenging experience while working for the brand, claiming that the workload was excessive and that she endured humiliation in front of customers. In response to these serious allegations, Christy Ng issued a statement firmly denying the claims. She also addressed concerns regarding maternity leave after facing backlash for reportedly misleading headlines in 2019. Despite these clarifications, many individuals remain unwilling to move past the controversies. Following @holiltheV&rsquo;s tweet, netizens expressed their appreciation for the reminder and criticized the entrepreneur for only gifting RM50 notes to each staff member, labelling her as &ldquo;stingy.&rdquo;
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Not me thinking bila pekerja knapa salary x byar fully nt dia jawab separuh tu I dah masuk dlm beg u 😅
&mdash; Queen✨Serinety (@ColorSoup) <a href="https://twitter.com/ColorSoup/status/1845247344503292166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Diorang tak marah ke? Kalau ada orang main buka je bag and purse I without any permission. I dah mengamuk dah walaupun niat dia baik. Sebab, adab kot
&mdash; Cunah 🇲🇾 (@_whhsnasofin) <a href="https://twitter.com/_whhsnasofin/status/1845246791673053483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Bukak beg org dah satu hal, pegang berkepuk, letak sehelai, gigih la tulis "handwritten note" 🤣 remember don't buy her products. Suka tiru design org, buli intern, siap ckp perempuan tak patut cuti rehat lepas bersalin lama2. Jgn support org mcm ni
&mdash; Landscaper melaka (@erynranea) <a href="https://twitter.com/erynranea/status/1845334324415168593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Tak pernah beli barang yang dia jual sejak viral kes intern tu. Peniru kuat.
&mdash; 💉🩸 (@unicornsistic) <a href="https://twitter.com/unicornsistic/status/1845244974532788606?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2024</a></blockquote>

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Staff Defends Boss &amp; Netizen Shares Her Friend's Experience Of Working For Christy Ng
Despite a few individuals attempting to tarnish Christy Ng's reputation, her positive actions have prompted a defence from one man who claims to be one of her staff members. He took to social media to assert that Christy has been a supportive CEO, providing him with all the necessary assistance for his upcoming paternity leave.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Aku malas nk post pasal kerja related kat twitter. Tp unfair la dia kena bantai one side. Ni recent receipts la apa dia kasi kat aku. 1.Diapers and wetwipes supply 2.Iphone 16 pro 3.Kasi pinjam Alphard kalau balik kg. Alhamdullilah for this. Life getting better <a href="https://t.co/Jtl9q0LPcM">pic.twitter.com/Jtl9q0LPcM</a>
&mdash; ᴅᴇɴɢ (@Nasru_Den) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nasru_Den/status/1845390419204636676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2024</a></blockquote>

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He shared that Christy had generously sponsored everything, including diapers, allowances, and baby products, and that she had no issues with him taking maternity or paternity leave. As an added bonus, she even covered the cost of a confinement service lady for two weeks. While he usually prefers not to discuss work online, he felt compelled to speak out against the negative comments directed at his employer, which resulted in an unwarranted backlash against Christy.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I have a friend who works under Christy Ng, and she will often say how good of a boss she is. She would get her employees things when she's overseas as gifts, words of affirmation etc. It doesn't matter what others think but she's setting some pretty good work culture. <a href="https://t.co/G10XczIU49">https://t.co/G10XczIU49</a>
&mdash; Shu Faye (@shufayewong) <a href="https://twitter.com/shufayewong/status/1845322809310052768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Malaysian Twitch streamer and personality Shu Faye Wong also weighed in, mentioning that one of her friends works for Christy. She noted that Christy has been a kind and supportive boss to her team, often bringing back souvenirs when she returns from her trips abroad. Shu Faye expressed her belief that it doesn&rsquo;t matter what others think about Christy; based on how her staff speaks about her, she is clearly setting a positive example for what a healthy work culture should look like.
Let's face it: we all have opinions about working for a company, whether they're positive or negative. However, one thing we should all be cautious about is taking everything we read online at face value. Sometimes, the person voicing a complaint might simply be having a bad day, and their negativity may not accurately reflect the overall experience. It's important to consider multiple perspectives before jumping to conclusions.
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’s easy to assume, but those who work with her closely know how generous she truly is.

8fac7b16236a521a111117e324a898bcffb4f8ed254d99561d8071ef0255b5dc

Christy Ng Employee Defends Founder Amid Online Accusations Of Bullying

Klang Valley residents planning to be out and about on Friday, 26 April, are strongly advised to steer clear of Bukit Jalil, which is set to be inundated with crowds due to two major back-to-back events expected to draw more than 100,000 people.
Malaysia Cup Final and Amy Search Concert Happening Simultaneously 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2972c1808ab61964af6e32e80708535f60379639f8683c9cc46287abc4dd0e32" />
The Malaysia Cup Final between Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Sri Pahang FC will kick off at 9.00pm at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, while rock legend Datuk Amy Search will be performing his Magic Konsert Solo Pertama at the nearby Axiata Arena, starting at 8.30pm.
Originally scheduled for 12 April, the Malaysia Cup Final was postponed to 26 April following requests from the finalist teams. The change allowed fans more time to participate, especially with the Hari Raya celebrations taking place earlier in the month.
Both events are expected to attract huge turnouts &mdash; the stadium alone can accommodate 87,500 spectators, and reports suggest over 60% of football tickets have already been sold, while Amy Search&rsquo;s concert has seen similarly high demand.
Authorities Brace for Major Congestion from 5PM Onwards
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/27a6ae43b5cdc7bb868228b5bf6f1ababcfafe82e0708fc57c4eb0165a806be6" />
With massive foot traffic heading to both venues in the same precinct, severe congestion is anticipated from as early as 5.00pm, potentially lasting well past midnight.
The public has been strongly encouraged to use public transportation, especially the LRT Sri Petaling Line, which stops directly at Bukit Jalil LRT Station &mdash; just a short walking distance to both venues.
To accommodate the rush, Rapid KL has announced extended operating hours for Bukit Jalil station and several key interchange stations across the Klang Valley until 12.30am on 27 April.
Extended LRT Hours: Stations Involved 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/79fd6fb3e2d377a29e2e947b48454fc751c9a85fe597df588df20f01859f06fc" />
Those planning to take the LRT are advised to ensure their Touch 'n Go cards are topped up in advance for a smoother experience. The following lines and stations will have extended hours:
🟥 Ampang / Sri Petaling Line:
<ul>
<li>Bukit Jalil (main station)</li>
<li>Sungai Besi</li>
<li>Plaza Rakyat</li>
<li>Masjid Jamek</li>
<li>Chan Sow Lin</li>
<li>Titiwangsa</li>
<li>Hang Tuah</li>
<li>Maluri</li>
<li>Putra Heights</li>
</ul>
🟦 Kelana Jaya Line:
<ul>
<li>Masjid Jamek</li>
<li>Pasar Seni</li>
<li>Putra Heights</li>
</ul>
🟫 Monorail Line:
<ul>
<li>Hang Tuah</li>
<li>Titiwangsa</li>
</ul>
🟩 Kajang Line:
<ul>
<li>Pasar Seni</li>
<li>Maluri</li>
<li>Merdeka</li>
<li>Kwasa Damansara</li>
<li>Tun Razak Exchange</li>
</ul>
🟨 Putrajaya Line:
<ul>
<li>Kwasa Damansara</li>
<li>Sungai Besi</li>
<li>Chan Sow Lin</li>
<li>Titiwangsa</li>
<li>Tun Razak Exchange</li>
</ul>
Driving Instead? Use These Alternative Routes
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bea3e8c4c5501887f652dde625c15f384f225f5cc7c848ecc9a4404056c54547" />
If you must drive, authorities advise motorists to avoid peak times and consider using alternative expressways to bypass the worst of the traffic:
<ul>
<li>From Klang or Subang: Use the KESAS Expressway towards Sri Petaling.</li>
<li>From Cheras or Ampang: Take the SUKE Expressway.</li>
<li>From KL City Centre: The SMART Tunnel provides a quicker route from Jalan Tun Razak to Jalan Sungai Besi.</li>
</ul>
Leaving early and checking navigation apps for real-time traffic updates is highly recommended.
Tips to Navigate the Crowd Safely
To make your evening enjoyable and hassle-free, event organisers and local authorities have offered several key tips:
<ul>
<li>Arrive at least an hour early to avoid last-minute delays.</li>
<li>Secure your belongings and be cautious in crowded areas.</li>
<li>Stay hydrated and dress comfortably, especially if queuing outdoors.</li>
<li>Pay attention to announcements from the police, RapidKL, and DBKL.</li>
<li>Follow official social media channels for live traffic and event updates.</li>
</ul>
With careful planning, public cooperation, and a bit of patience, attendees can look forward to an unforgettable evening &mdash; whether you're cheering on your favourite football team or rocking out with a local music icon.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Two mega events, one night. Plan ahead if you’re heading driving tomorrow!

171d97da4db7f3f33eb12bbd141fa90288f41d8610057b9574bf11ddcdc6c049

Traffic Alert: Over 100,000 Expected In Bukit Jalil For Football Final & Amy Search Concert On 26 April

&nbsp;
For many teachers, the classroom is more than just a place to deliver lessons &mdash; it becomes a second home, and students become, in a sense, extended family. Teaching is a profession that demands not only intellectual rigour, but immense emotional commitment. It involves sacrifice, patience, and a deep belief in the potential of every child, no matter how difficult the path may be.
This devotion is especially evident in the story of Muslim Ismail, a teacher at SMK Gemas in Negeri Sembilan, whose recent reflections about one of his students have touched the hearts of thousands online. His tribute is a powerful reminder that success in education is not always measured in grades or trophies, but in the lives changed &mdash; and the dignity preserved &mdash; along the way.
A Boy Who Felt Out of Place
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/00374dea87346022292adf62947e18ec568d697866ec58d14b81ae233bc8f313" />
In a moving Facebook post, Muslim shared the story of a student who never quite fit into the conventional academic mould. The boy wasn&rsquo;t disruptive or rebellious &mdash; he simply stopped attending school regularly during Form 4. His absence nearly led to expulsion, but thanks to the quiet perseverance of a special needs teacher, and later, Muslim himself, the boy slowly began returning to class.
&ldquo;He was a good student. Polite, soft-spoken. He never caused any trouble &mdash; he just wasn&rsquo;t present,&rdquo; Muslim wrote. &ldquo;Maybe the school environment didn&rsquo;t suit him. A place so focused on grades, comparisons and competition can be alienating, especially when you&rsquo;re struggling with comprehension or memory.&rdquo;
A Place to Belong: The Poetry and Song Club
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b0ace24ae3244e076f5376dfd98b9025f9e0463dd2a41e7c42c38c2723891bcb" />
Keen to draw the boy back into school life, Muslim tried a different approach &mdash; one based not on academic pressure, but on empathy. He discovered that the boy had a love for music, so he encouraged him to join the school&rsquo;s poetry and song club.
They never won any contests. That, however, was never the goal.
&ldquo;He came back to school, I believe, because he felt accepted. Valued. That might have been the only fond memory he had of school,&rdquo; Muslim said.
In the classroom, the boy continued to struggle. He consistently failed exams, but he approached his assignments in the Landscape and Nursery vocational subject with determination. His work was rarely perfect, yet he applied himself with care and effort. Muslim never scolded him, knowing that for this student, just trying was already a victory.
A Long-Awaited Victory, Too Late to See 
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/7ec65881a6831b168d4bd468d2ad2f49e2d75c2da745ff70b969dea52bf6cfa1" /> 
Then came the 2023 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations &mdash; the final academic hurdle for many Malaysian students. When results were released on 24 April 2024, Muslim was overjoyed to see the boy had finally achieved a pass.
In fact, he scored an A- &mdash; in none other than Landscape and Nursery.
It was his first and only passing grade. A triumph after years of struggle. But heartbreakingly, the student would never see it.
Just three days earlier, on 21 April, he had passed away from an infection following surgery for appendicitis. The news devastated Muslim and the school community. The boy had finally crossed the finish line &mdash; but life had taken him before he could bask in that success.
&ldquo;Suddenly I miss him,&rdquo; wrote fellow SMK Gemas teacher Mas Masliana. &ldquo;He was such a well-mannered boy.&rdquo;
A Final Farewell and A Prayer
In his post, Muslim&rsquo;s farewell to his student was deeply personal and spiritual. It captured the raw grief of an educator who had invested years of care into a young life &mdash; only to lose it just as hope began to bloom.
&ldquo;You don&rsquo;t have many sins,&rdquo; he wrote to the boy. &ldquo;Maybe when the time comes, if I&rsquo;m on the other side, you could ask God to forgive me.&rdquo;
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The post received an outpouring of support from netizens, who commended Muslim&rsquo;s compassion and praised the student&rsquo;s determination. Many were moved to tears, reflecting on the challenges so many children face in silence &mdash; and the life-changing power of a single adult who chooses to believe in them.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0c1b3f43a0b166970e0a9707d7b4fdf107a880f8af47a85ac8205914fc37d8e9" />
Rethinking Success and the Role of Educators
In a follow-up post, Muslim turned his attention to the broader education system. He urged the Ministry of Education to rethink how success is measured &mdash; not just for students, but for teachers as well.
&ldquo;Every subject has its value. You cannot compare a vocational subject to mathematics or science. Each requires a different skill set, a different mindset, and caters to a different kind of intelligence,&rdquo; he explained.
He pointed out that subjects such as Physical Education, often overlooked, play a vital role in helping students manage stress &mdash; an essential factor in academic performance. Similarly, a teacher who helps a student think logically, even if they fail the subject, still imparts a critical life skill.
&ldquo;Every teacher contributes to a student&rsquo;s development. Success isn&rsquo;t always about straight As,&rdquo; he said.
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Teaching as an Act of Hope
Muslim&rsquo;s reflections have struck a deep chord among educators and parents alike. His story reminds us that teaching is not about producing perfect students &mdash; it&rsquo;s about meeting each child where they are, and walking with them, however long it takes.
It is about creating moments of dignity for children who feel like they don&rsquo;t belong. It is about opening doors, even when no one else believes the student will walk through them. And sometimes, it is about celebrating a single, hard-won achievement &mdash; even if the person it was meant for isn&rsquo;t there to receive it.
As Muslim aptly concluded, quoting a saying often misattributed to Einstein:
&ldquo;Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.&rdquo;
This story isn&rsquo;t just about one boy who passed a single subject. It&rsquo;s about the immeasurable impact of being seen, supported, and believed in &mdash; even once.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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b8f922aec38bcefee6248fc7ce9b9c2b981644c7a86ccf0f2f3bbfe29350d126

A Teacher’s Devotion And The Legacy Of A Quiet SMK Gemas Student Who Never Saw His SPM Result

Conservative American commentator Bill O&rsquo;Reilly has reignited tensions with Malaysia after doubling down on controversial remarks suggesting Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, lack the financial means to benefit from Chinese trade relations. The former Fox News host&rsquo;s comments drew sharp criticism from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who accused O&rsquo;Reilly of holding a worldview rooted in colonialism and racial superiority.
Xi Jinping&rsquo;s Regional Tour Sparks Economic Debate 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2f7aebc041329cdd6e457b355330ed4e677bf6ab968aa120dfb644b6e0da3bc7" />
The dispute stems from Chinese President Xi Jinping&rsquo;s recent diplomatic tour of Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia &mdash; a strategic move by Beijing in light of escalating trade tensions with the United States, including a newly imposed 145% tariff on Chinese goods.
O&rsquo;Reilly responded to Xi&rsquo;s visit by questioning the economic value of China&rsquo;s outreach to the three Southeast Asian nations. He suggested these countries lacked the financial capacity to purchase Chinese-made products, sarcastically declaring: &ldquo;We have the money, we buy stuff. The &lsquo;Malays&rsquo; aren&rsquo;t gonna buy your stuff. They don&rsquo;t have any money.&rdquo;
His use of the ethnic term &ldquo;Malays&rdquo; to generalise the entire Malaysian population further provoked backlash online, with many accusing O&rsquo;Reilly of cultural ignorance and racial insensitivity. Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4248/xi-jinpings-southeast-asia-tour-draws-mockery-from-us-commentator-but-malaysias-economic-numbers-tell-a-different-story">Xi Jinping&rsquo;s Southeast Asia Tour Draws Mockery From US Commentator &ndash; But Malaysia&rsquo;s Economic Numbers Tell A Different Story</a>
Anwar Hits Back: &ldquo;Xenophobia, Racism, and Colonial Arrogance&rdquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/08bbca4443221f96e4102a5acfecd8f583bbc2966c981a0e99634993d3cc665c" />
In a strong rebuttal, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim lambasted O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s statements as not only factually flawed but also emblematic of a deeper, more insidious mindset.
&ldquo;He is clearly trapped in a narrow worldview shaped by colonialism, racism, and xenophobia,&rdquo; said Anwar, who also serves as Malaysia&rsquo;s Finance Minister. &ldquo;It reflects a deep ignorance of the socioeconomic realities in Southeast Asia and a belief that only their group or nation is successful.&rdquo;
Anwar&rsquo;s remarks were widely supported by Malaysians and regional observers, who viewed O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s comments as dismissive of the economic progress made by developing nations in Asia.
O&rsquo;Reilly Responds with More Provocation &mdash; and Geography Errors
In a subsequent YouTube video, O&rsquo;Reilly read out Anwar&rsquo;s response, appearing both amused and unrepentant. He reiterated his claim that Malaysians &ldquo;don&rsquo;t have money&rdquo; by citing Malaysia&rsquo;s household income per capita, which he claimed stands at US$5,731 annually (~RM25,110), compared to the US figure of US$42,220 (~RM184,585).
&ldquo;That's eight times higher,&rdquo; O&rsquo;Reilly declared. &ldquo;So if you want to buy a little hat, and you're only making five grand a year, you're not gonna buy it. You're not getting Chinese takeout either in Kuala Lumpur. You're barely eating.&rdquo;
He added, &ldquo;China is not going to be able to sell its stuff in your country, or Vietnam, or Cambodia. Got it?&rdquo;
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V85NEV6pQZM" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Despite the inflammatory tone, O&rsquo;Reilly did attempt to soften his comments by acknowledging that Malaysia is a &ldquo;beautiful&rdquo; country &mdash; albeit one he described as &ldquo;complicated.&rdquo; He also claimed he wanted the country to succeed but cheekily concluded, &ldquo;this &lsquo;colonialist&rsquo; has told the truth.&rdquo;
However, the commentator went on to confuse Malaysia with Indonesia, wrongly stating that former US President Barack Obama was &ldquo;partially raised in Malaysia.&rdquo; In fact, Obama spent part of his childhood in Indonesia &mdash; an entirely separate country. The factual gaffe further undermined O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s credibility, especially among viewers in Southeast Asia.
The Flawed Economic Comparison: A Misunderstanding of Local Realities
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ce282d27b51434ea8b4d878053177e3f809da63fcc1e8d47c8593eff0347b0dc" />
While the household income figures quoted by O&rsquo;Reilly are broadly accurate &mdash; with Malaysia&rsquo;s data taken from CEIC and correct as of late 2022 &mdash; his interpretation of those numbers lacks nuance. Economic analysts were quick to point out that comparing raw income figures between two vastly different economies without considering the cost of living and purchasing power parity (PPP) paints a misleading picture.
According to forecasts from Statista, Malaysia&rsquo;s household disposable income per capita is projected to rise to RM32,228 (~USD7,370) by 2025. When adjusted for PPP, the income disparity between Malaysia and the US narrows considerably, offering a more accurate representation of everyday purchasing power.
Furthermore, O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s claim that Malaysians are &ldquo;barely eating&rdquo; and can&rsquo;t afford Chinese take-out in Kuala Lumpur drew widespread mockery online. In truth, Chinese cuisine is among the most common and affordable foods in Malaysia. Local Chinese restaurants, hawker stalls, and kopitiams offer hearty meals for as little as RM6 to RM20 &mdash; easily within the reach of most working and middle-class residents.
A Clash of Cultures &mdash; or Just Misinformation?
&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/bf8f9e0672ef18e5532af95f858eae6bc18c59785f744c785baa6a73d7f42766" />
O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s long-standing relationship with US President Donald Trump and his deep roots in American conservative media have helped shape public opinion in the United States for decades. However, his latest comments have highlighted a broader issue: the cultural blind spots and outdated assumptions that still exist in Western commentary on Asia.
While O&rsquo;Reilly may find support from sections of the American right, many in Southeast Asia viewed his remarks as tone-deaf, outdated, and laced with condescension. As Anwar and others have pointed out, such statements not only misrepresent the region&rsquo;s progress but also reinforce dangerous stereotypes about the Global South.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments from netizens:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/286074c669df0c5f11a2f4de26b0e5871fcfc66b5acef40c8ea242c653e5fb72" />
Conclusion: More Than Just a Viral Clip
What began as a throwaway comment in a YouTube video has now morphed into a diplomatic and cultural flashpoint, illustrating how global discourse is increasingly shaped by online personalities with outsized influence.
In this case, Bill O&rsquo;Reilly&rsquo;s reductive take on Southeast Asia&rsquo;s economy sparked a much-needed conversation &mdash; not just about income disparities, but about the lingering legacies of colonial attitudes and the importance of understanding nations on their own terms.
&nbsp;What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Even with eight times less household income per capita, Malaysians don’t suffer as much as the average American.

eeb00258686da6dff7bf601317ec304fe039ba4a5f37a93c56e77539c5199872

Bill O’Reilly Doubles Down On “No Money” Claim As Anwar Ibrahim Fires Back

The 2024 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination has delivered the strongest academic performance since the introduction of the current grading system in 2013. The Ministry of Education announced significant improvements across key metrics, with more candidates passing and a higher number earning top grades. However, this success is tempered by a troubling increase in the number of students who failed all subjects &mdash; and those who did not turn up for the examination at all.
Best National Performance Since 2013
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d16602fa49775f808c21bd1b75714e429eba324d4b2d774c80526ce423d50827" />
According to Education Director-General Datuk Azman Adnan, the national average grade (GPN) for the 2024 SPM was 4.49, an improvement from 4.60 recorded in 2023. In the Malaysian examination system, a lower GPN denotes better overall performance. This makes the 2024 cohort the best-performing since the Malaysian Qualifications Framework was realigned over a decade ago.
Of the 402,956 candidates who sat for the exams, 355,933 students &mdash; or 94 per cent &mdash; qualified for the SPM certificate by passing Bahasa Melayu and History, both of which are compulsory. Additionally, 14,179 candidates (3.7 per cent) achieved straight As across all subjects (A+, A, or A-), marking a significant increase from the 12,087 candidates (3.1 per cent) who achieved similar results in 2023.
This upward trend was mirrored across nearly all subject categories, suggesting a broader systemic improvement rather than isolated excellence.
Urban-Rural Gap Narrows Slightly
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d9dd2ed3b3bf23be3b5aca011f12c1913e7bf26f91a922fc2df2e7e0522f12d8" />
One notable highlight of the 2024 results is the narrowing of the performance gap between urban and rural students. While urban candidates scored an average GPN of 4.47, rural students recorded 4.92. Though the disparity remains, the 0.45-point difference marks a continuing trend towards greater equity in educational outcomes, aided by digital learning tools, targeted rural support programmes, and increased access to trained educators.
State-by-State: Regional Performance Highlights
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/af6b553b0f1898ac24a4a379134f2284f80856e376c55ac6f5ee16c0446f061e" />
Several states reported performance levels above or on par with the national average, underscoring broader improvements across the education system.
<ul>
<li>Putrajaya maintained its strong academic standing with a GPN of 3.44 &mdash; the best in the country. Out of 1,073 candidates, 99.07 per cent qualified for the SPM certificate, and 175 students achieved straight As.</li>
<li>Terengganu saw its GPN improve from 4.41 in 2023 to 4.31, with 532 students scoring straight As.</li>
<li>Melaka posted a GPN of 4.43, with 414 students earning straight As. Sixteen of these candidates scored A+ in all subjects.</li>
<li>Johor exceeded the national average with a GPN of 4.36. The number of straight-A students rose from 1,247 in 2023 to 1,513 in 2024.</li>
<li>Penang improved to a GPN of 4.39, with 819 candidates achieving at least A- in all subjects.</li>
<li>Selangor, Malaysia&rsquo;s most populous state, recorded a GPN of 4.59 &mdash; slightly better than 4.62 in 2023 &mdash; with 2,368 students obtaining straight As.</li>
<li>Negeri Sembilan outperformed many with a GPN of 4.18 and 804 straight-A achievers.</li>
<li>Kelantan saw a GPN of 4.62, with 436 students scoring straight As.</li>
<li>Other states, including Kuala Lumpur (4.24 GPN), Perlis (4.66), Pahang (4.56), Sarawak (4.92), and Sabah (5.10), also demonstrated modest improvements in overall performance.</li>
</ul>
Alarming Increase in Students Failing All Subjects
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7420d6f60d1fefbe7a34d00e9314eb36635fc70e280477720fca09b69443cbda" />
Despite the national gains, a concerning number of students failed every subject in the 2024 SPM. A total of 1,789 candidates (0.5 per cent) received failing grades across all papers &mdash; including Bahasa Melayu and History &mdash; up from 1,467 (0.4 per cent) the previous year.
The Ministry attributes this to a mix of academic and socioeconomic challenges. Some students continue to struggle with foundational skills due to lingering effects of pandemic-era disruptions, while others face unstable home environments or a lack of academic support. Fatigue from juggling school and part-time jobs &mdash; especially in urban areas &mdash; has also been identified as a major contributing factor.
&ldquo;We found that some students were working night shifts and attending school during the day, which naturally impacts their focus and performance,&rdquo; said Education Director-General Datuk Azman Adnan. &ldquo;These are systemic issues that must be addressed.&rdquo;
Dropouts and Absenteeism: Thousands Did Not Sit for the Exam
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0ea7a5ca9e0dea06717e64dd59090d223f5ffaa9c1dbfd5de4aedc8cb03f97be" />
Beyond those who failed, thousands of students did not turn up for the SPM at all &mdash; a persistent issue that continues to trouble the Ministry. Around 10,000 registered candidates nationwide were absent from the 2024 exam.
In Penang, 239 candidates failed to sit for the papers &mdash; a slight improvement from 338 in 2023. According to State Education Director Wan Sajiri Wan Hassan, financial hardship is often the root cause. &ldquo;Some students prioritise work to support their families over completing their education,&rdquo; he noted.
To tackle this, Penang has rolled out the Jom SPM outreach programme, aimed at re-engaging at-risk students. Led by District Education Offices (PPDs), the initiative collaborates with community leaders and civil society groups to conduct targeted home visits and provide counselling and support.
Ministry&rsquo;s Next Steps: Targeted Support and Strategic Partnerships
The Ministry of Education has pledged a detailed post-mortem of the 2024 results to identify root causes of both failure and absenteeism. Datuk Azman emphasised that the Ministry will not rest on the laurels of improved averages alone.
&ldquo;Inclusive success is our target. We are pleased with the national progress, but equally mindful of the students left behind,&rdquo; he said.
The Ministry plans to expand remedial classes, enhance after-school tutoring programmes, and strengthen collaboration with NGOs, parent-teacher associations, and youth agencies. These efforts aim to deliver not just academic instruction but holistic support for students facing economic or emotional hardship.
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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Thanos once said, “Perfectly balanced, as all things should be” — but this wasn’t quite the balance we had in mind. 

3832e00dbd6ffccf0fb54ca3db81af71a6e228ed54ad647332206e595055cb56

SPM 2024 Records Best Results In Over A Decade, But Concerns Over Failures And Dropouts Persist

As the United States reinstates heavy tariffs on Chinese imports under former President Donald Trump, a new trade controversy is emerging &mdash; and Malaysia finds itself unwillingly at the centre of it. Reports have surfaced that unscrupulous freight brokers based in China are rerouting goods through Malaysia and mislabelling them as "Made in Malaysia" to evade the steep US duties, raising serious concerns over the potential damage to Malaysia's trade reputation.
From Trade Partner to Transit Point: Malaysia&rsquo;s Role in a Rising Smuggling Tactic
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4d8cc18d4a0ca3a7db37c9bc2a167dafe4a6f5789aa5c653a38e7fb11337eb08" />
According to reports by Malay Mail and Bloomberg, China-based logistics brokers have been offering US online retailers highly suspicious services to cut down on shipping costs. These include falsifying the country of origin and undervaluing shipments &mdash; with Malaysia being one of the key countries misused in this deception. Some brokers even go as far as posing as importers themselves, offering to handle the documentation and falsely declare the goods as Malaysian-made.
&ldquo;Many clients are now choosing to route Chinese products through Malaysia and claim they are made here,&rdquo; said one freight broker to Bloomberg. The motivation is clear: while Chinese goods are currently facing tariffs as high as 145% in the United States, products genuinely originating from Malaysia are only subject to a 24% import duty.
The scheme is not only unethical but also illegal under US customs law. False declarations of origin constitute a serious offence and may result in civil or criminal penalties for all parties involved &mdash; including sellers, brokers, and importers. As of now, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has not officially confirmed whether enforcement has been ramped up, though they have reiterated that public reports and complaints through their online portal remain a key part of enforcement efforts.
Trump&rsquo;s Tariff Surge Sparks a Wave of Workarounds
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6bcb751a7431f4b2e92f42c60b618422d15d5c3547bafa7eed5f254cc236183f" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4265/us-slaps-up-to-3521percent-tariffs-on-asean-solar-panels-threatening-malaysias-export-industry">US Slaps Up To 3,521% Tariffs On ASEAN Solar Panels, Threatening Malaysia&rsquo;s Export Industry</a> Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4218/the-impact-of-new-us-tariffs-on-malaysia-jobs-prices-and-the-iphone">The Impact Of New US Tariffs On Malaysia: Jobs, Prices, And The iPhone</a>
This illicit practice appears to have surged after Trump&rsquo;s announcement earlier this month of a new round of trade tariffs, starting at 10% for all imports into the US. Specifically, China has been targeted with the steepest hikes &mdash; first 54%, then 104%, and most recently a staggering 145%. China retaliated by imposing 125% tariffs on US goods, prompting fears of a full-blown trade war echoing previous years.
Even Malaysia &mdash; previously unaffected by the bulk of US trade restrictions &mdash; was not spared. Under Trump&rsquo;s revised policy, Malaysian exports to the US now face a 24% import tariff. Although significantly lower than the Chinese rate, it still marks a steep increase from previous levels and could pose challenges for legitimate Malaysian exporters.
The escalating tariff war has caused an upheaval in the global supply chain. Some Chinese companies are now resorting to third-country transhipment strategies to sidestep duties &mdash; with Malaysia and even South Korea among the countries being exploited as part of this growing black market workaround.
South Korea Faces Similar Challenges with Mislabelled Chinese Goods
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e4e9aa3a91010b9cc4c8d83659a4fbf4a16525928c0522d2834663ff1275d047" />
Malaysia is not alone in this predicament. South Korea, too, has discovered large-scale violations involving Chinese goods being falsely labelled as South Korean exports. According to the Korea Customs Service, a staggering 29.5 billion won (~RM91,000,000) worth of goods with incorrect origin labels were uncovered in just the first quarter of 2025 &mdash; with 97% of them destined for the US market.
The violations include Chinese-made cathode materials and surveillance equipment that were either reassembled in South Korea or relabelled outright before being shipped to the United States. Some of these goods had already been exported, while others were intercepted at the port.
In response, the Korea Customs Service has launched a special task force and is working closely with US authorities to crack down on these illegal transhipment practices. All violations are expected to be forwarded to prosecutors for legal action.
Malaysia Urged to Act Swiftly to Protect Its Trade Integrity
Malaysian trade analysts are now sounding the alarm. If this misuse continues unchecked, Malaysia&rsquo;s international credibility as a law-abiding trade partner could be at risk. The country's legitimate exporters may find themselves subject to heightened scrutiny by US authorities, leading to delays, increased compliance checks, and potential blacklisting.
There are growing calls for the Malaysian government to act decisively. Trade groups and analysts alike have urged authorities to investigate any abuse of Malaysia&rsquo;s national label and clamp down on foreign attempts to exploit its relatively favourable tariff position. They argue that failing to act could result in long-term reputational damage, making it harder for Malaysian exporters to maintain market access abroad.
&ldquo;Malaysia needs to take swift action to prevent being used as a cover for tariff evasion. This is not just about trade, but about safeguarding our nation's integrity,&rdquo; one analyst said
Understanding Tariffs and Why They Matter
&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/ebdd724d306175630884f79b28dbb2541fa11e0b59529929bfd382852e84cb8c" />
For those unfamiliar with trade policy, tariffs are essentially taxes imposed by one country on goods imported from another. The idea is to make foreign products more expensive, thereby protecting domestic industries and discouraging reliance on overseas suppliers.
But while tariffs serve a political and economic purpose, they also create ripple effects. For instance, Malaysian Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz previously explained that a shirt originally priced at USD 100 (~RM656.25) could cost as much as USD 154 (~RM673.75) after a 54% tariff &mdash; a cost that is typically borne by end consumers rather than corporations.
According to the Tax Foundation, tariffs are a regressive form of taxation. They disproportionately affect low-income households, who end up spending a larger share of their income on essential goods that have suddenly become more expensive due to import taxes.
A Trade War With Global Consequences
As Trump hints at a possible reduction in the 145% tariff on Chinese goods &mdash; stating it will "drop significantly, but not to zero" &mdash; the uncertainty continues to roil global markets. What is clear, however, is that countries like Malaysia must tread carefully. Being caught in the crossfire of a geopolitical trade war not only endangers economic interests but also risks entanglement in a global web of fraud and deception.
Malaysia must now navigate these turbulent waters with a firm stance, ensuring its name is not co-opted by foreign actors for unlawful gain, and upholding its hard-earned reputation as a responsible global trading partner. The time to act is now.
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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South Korea also uncovered falsely labelled goods, highlighting the scale of the transhipment schemes.

Christy Ng Employee Defends Founder Amid Online Accusations Of Bullying

It’s easy to assume, but those who work with her closely know how generous she truly is.

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