Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

payment

refugees

ewallet

savings

financing

TNG Digital

financial inclusion

UNHCR

In a significant step towards financial inclusion, TNG Digital has announced that refugees and asylum seekers in Malaysia can now access its Touch 'n Go eWallet. This milestone is the result of a collaboration between TNG Digital and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed last year. This initiative aims to empower refugees by providing them with essential digital financial services, fostering economic participation, and enhancing their financial security.
Unlocking Financial Opportunities for Refugees
With this initiative, refugees registered with UNHCR in Malaysia can now perform a wide range of financial transactions through the TnG eWallet app. These include:
<ul>
<li>Payments for goods and services</li>
<li>E-wallet balance top-ups</li>
<li>Receiving and transferring funds</li>
<li>Access to the Touch &lsquo;n Go eWallet Visa Card for online and in-store payments</li>
<li>ATM withdrawals for greater financial flexibility</li>
</ul>
Additionally, refugees using the app will enjoy the same Money-Back Guarantee policy as Malaysian users and can earn GOrewards points on their purchases. The initiative also sees collaboration from Visa and PayNet, reinforcing its reach and security.
Addressing the Challenges of Financial Exclusion
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fc56ddedf52f620e482f0dba4f39e656b4d91d0c9a445927c9e0cac1ce66b966" />
For years, refugees in Malaysia have struggled to access formal financial services due to stringent banking requirements. Many are unable to open bank accounts because they lack supplementary documentation such as tenancy agreements or proof of employment&mdash;barriers that have left them financially excluded.
Recognising this challenge, TNG Digital CEO Alan Ni emphasised the importance of financial technology in promoting inclusion. &ldquo;Malaysia is expected to become a cashless society by 2030. If refugees are not part of this transition, they will be socially and financially crippled,&rdquo; he stated during the initiative&rsquo;s launch event. By integrating refugees into the digital financial ecosystem, this initiative ensures they are not left behind in the country's economic transformation.
Supporting Economic Growth Through Financial Inclusion
UNHCR Malaysia Representative Louise Aubin highlighted the broader impact of this initiative, stating: &ldquo;When refugees are empowered, all of society benefits. Providing them with financial access through technology does not just help them survive but allows them to thrive. This benefits the entire community.&rdquo;
Refugee activist and Fugee School co-founder Deborah Henry echoed this sentiment, stressing that financial inclusion is a crucial building block for social inclusion, especially in today&rsquo;s digital-driven society.
Over RM1 Billion Disbursed in Payroll Accounts
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d5d15456a0bb2e1939de850749c9955c0194e0a6cb1b90b0ca8bbc2086c8b5d0" />
Beyond providing basic financial access, TNG Digital has also taken steps to integrate refugees into the formal payroll system. Since the issue of financial access for refugees arose, the company has disbursed over RM1 billion into payroll accounts, ensuring secure and regulated salary payments for individuals who would otherwise struggle to manage their income.
This move stems from the MoU signed on World Refugee Day 2024 and aims to provide long-term financial security for refugees working in Malaysia. Payroll deposits into registered eWallet accounts enable secure income management, cashless transactions, and financial independence.
A Secure and Regulated Financial Ecosystem
To ensure the security of this initiative, TNG Digital has worked closely with regulators, including Bank Negara Malaysia, refining the eKYC (electronic Know-Your-Customer) verification process. This allows identity validation using UNHCR records, ensuring refugees can securely access and manage their funds.
Ni also noted that many refugees operate in the informal economy, making them vulnerable to unstable income streams and financial insecurity. &ldquo;By integrating them into a regulated payroll system, this initiative enhances their financial stability and economic independence,&rdquo; he explained.
Future Plans: Microfinancing, Savings, and Insurance
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5dccbaa76addf936c6e0836e314fe97846fda28568172818524c1b96f5100792" />
Looking ahead, TNG Digital is exploring additional financial solutions tailored for refugees. These include:
<ul>
<li>Microfinancing options to support small businesses</li>
<li>Savings programmes to help build financial security</li>
<li>Access to insurance for better financial protection</li>
</ul>
Ni stressed that as Malaysia evolves into a regional fintech hub, financial inclusivity remains a top priority. &ldquo;This initiative is a major step towards ensuring that no one is left behind in the country&rsquo;s digital economy,&rdquo; he added.
A Step Towards Greater Empowerment
UNHCR&rsquo;s Louise Aubin reiterated the importance of partnerships between the private sector, public sector, and civil society in empowering displaced communities. &ldquo;This collaboration enables refugees to securely receive wages, manage savings, and participate in the local economy&mdash;basic financial rights that many of us take for granted.&rdquo;
With TNG Digital&rsquo;s ongoing commitment, this initiative marks a pivotal shift towards inclusive financial access, ensuring that refugees in Malaysia can build more stable, self-sufficient futures. As digital finance continues to reshape the economic landscape, this partnership sets a powerful example of how technology can be leveraged to uplift and empower marginalised communities.
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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Enhancing financial access for over 192,000 UNHCR-registered refugees.

8c8b6f921ecb4bc8f6e4827f2a08e56065450469edff7c7b5cb9e5a9ac7d496f

Touch 'n Go eWallet Expands Financial Inclusion For Refugees In Malaysia

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Scentify

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Oatside

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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.

ef83410d3e0f9d7becedc185fe35367b92dc47dc74729224b4fccaf3d1945823

Masterclass Or Misstep? Malaysian SME Slammed After Ice Bath Team-Building Ends In Collapse

With luxury lifestyles, travel vlogs, and sponsored unboxings dominating social media feeds, it&rsquo;s no wonder that many Malaysian youth are increasingly drawn to the idea of becoming full-time content creators. The appeal of turning hobbies into income&mdash;and the hope of achieving viral success&mdash;has even led some to consider abandoning formal education or traditional career paths.
But behind the glamour lies a far more complex reality. Popular culinary content creator Che Nom, known for her meticulously crafted cooking videos and trusted recipes, has taken to social media to deliver a stark and sobering message for those romanticising the creator lifestyle.
&ldquo;It Looks Fun, But There&rsquo;s More Than Meets the Eye&rdquo; 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/72c1a49549bc884e9ba8faaf45b15dbaad0400ac6005020be1b112871e52c413" />
In a widely shared <a href="https://www.facebook.com/resepichenom/posts/pfbid02FqcPj8oopnjHuRwSzYLPJdx48SeChuraK7nnPBXcL6QLrj8oKyM4yS8oRH231kTjl">Facebook post</a>, Che Nom opened up about the realities of running a content creation business, especially within the highly competitive culinary niche.
&ldquo;Many DM me saying they love cooking and want to start making food videos because they enjoy watching mine,&rdquo; she wrote. &ldquo;But what people often don&rsquo;t realise is that behind every short video is an enormous amount of effort, planning, and financial cost.&rdquo;
According to Che Nom, passion alone is not enough to survive&mdash;let alone succeed&mdash;in the fast-evolving digital content landscape. From high-quality video production and scripting to sound, lighting, recipe development and editing, each video involves multiple layers of labour and expertise.
Revenue vs. Reality: Why Views Don&rsquo;t Always Pay
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5f3e2939c597efcaf5ecb824c6db6fc347b2d7182335beed1b49bafb4fdeda1c" />
In what may come as a surprise to many, Che Nom revealed just how little ad revenue can be generated from a seemingly successful video. She pointed to a recent reel on Kek Lapis Sarawak, which received over 56,000 views, yet earned her only RM415.40&mdash;and that, she clarified, was more than a month after it was uploaded.
Even more revealing was the financial breakdown of her monthly production costs, which typically fall between RM12,000 and RM16,000 for just 5 to 6 videos:
<ul>
<li>Videographer: RM2,500&ndash;RM3,500</li>
<li>Editor: RM2,500&ndash;RM3,000</li>
<li>Kitchen assistant: RM2,000&ndash;RM2,500</li>
<li>Premium ingredients &amp; repeated recipe testing</li>
<li>Electric usage for ovens (often for hours)</li>
<li>Utilities, props, equipment, and editing software</li>
</ul>
&ldquo;For those just starting out&mdash;if your monthly views don&rsquo;t even hit 300,000, your ad revenue likely won&rsquo;t exceed RM2,500,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s not enough to cover basic costs, let alone make a living.&rdquo;
Seasoned Creators Are Struggling Too
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/42cf9284992b868217e00e1279e8c8a8164818dccdff52c33a4447120303d447" />
Che Nom didn&rsquo;t only speak from the perspective of a newcomer. She made it clear that even experienced content creators are now facing growing difficulties. As audience habits shift toward shorter formats like TikTok, YouTube viewership is declining for many, particularly on older videos that once generated passive income.
&ldquo;Many long-time creators are struggling now,&rdquo; she explained. &ldquo;RPMs (revenue per thousand views) are dropping, and it&rsquo;s getting harder for new videos to perform well. Passive income from older uploads is dwindling, and viewers have become far more selective.&rdquo;
In this environment, low-quality videos simply won&rsquo;t survive. Poor visuals, unclear audio, or lacklustre storytelling will quickly drive users to swipe away.
Burnout and Budget Pressure: The Emotional Toll
One major misconception Che Nom addressed is the belief that having a team lightens the load. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s only half true,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;Yes, a team helps with production, but it also adds to monthly costs. If you go solo, you face burnout. If you hire help, you face higher expenses. Either way, it&rsquo;s tough.&rdquo;
The pressure to consistently produce high-performing content&mdash;combined with rising operational costs and unstable ad revenue&mdash;has led many in the industry to feel stretched thin, both financially and emotionally.
The New Rule: Diversify, Don&rsquo;t Depend on Ads
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2530abe6f858af9771e62d5ec2879a92e99636c01ffa12c2a1651ebaab8d646e" />
One of Che Nom&rsquo;s key messages to aspiring creators was simple but vital: do not rely on YouTube ads alone. Instead, she recommended building multiple revenue streams to support the content business:
<ul>
<li>eBooks: Offering exclusive recipes or guides</li>
<li>Affiliate marketing: Partnering with brands for commission-based promotions</li>
<li>Products: Selling branded merchandise, kitchen tools, or ingredients</li>
<li>Online classes: Hosting paid virtual workshops or tutorials</li>
</ul>
She stressed that creators should only choose monetisation methods that align with their expertise and values, rather than blindly following what&rsquo;s trending.
&ldquo;Find a niche that you&rsquo;re truly good at,&rdquo; she urged. &ldquo;And don&rsquo;t try to compare yourself to someone who&rsquo;s been in the game for a decade.&rdquo;
Final Thoughts: It&rsquo;s Not Just About Glamour&mdash;It&rsquo;s About Grit
Che Nom&rsquo;s message wasn&rsquo;t intended to discourage&mdash;it was meant to ground expectations in reality. She acknowledged the beauty and creative freedom that comes with content creation but reminded her followers that it&rsquo;s also a business that demands planning, resilience, and the willingness to adapt.
&ldquo;Content creation is an art, but the journey is filled with challenges,&rdquo; she concluded. &ldquo;If your passion is genuine, go for it. Just know that success takes more than talent&mdash;it takes strategy, sustainability, and strong mental preparation.&rdquo;
Che Nom&rsquo;s post is a crucial reminder at a time when the dream of going viral seems more accessible than ever. Behind the glossy thumbnails and upbeat vlogs are real people facing real challenges. As she puts it: the dream is worth chasing&mdash;but only with eyes wide open.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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RM415 profit from 56k views? The truth about content creation might surprise you.

fac3ac4a30f0d778d31008fcb72f0484f3493e1607a88edc62b6e8464ce5ca6f

Che Nom’s Reality Check: The Hidden Costs And Realities Of Being A Content Creator In Malaysia

Despite being mandatory for most Malaysian workers, many contributors to the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) remain unaware of the full scope of benefits available to them. One such benefit is the Temporary Disablement Benefit (Faedah Hilang Upaya Sementara), which provides income support to workers who are temporarily unable to work due to accidents or injuries &mdash; even during their commute to or from the office.
A recent <a href="https://www.threads.com/@mikaylamajla/post/DK_G2VMSE97?xmt=AQF0E7z_Y0P-jZH1LGO6g_zDGOnxC3HNyQJYzS1CEXQjgA">viral post</a> by a Malaysian woman has highlighted just how effective and swift the claims process can be &mdash; if you know what steps to take.
A Freak Accident on the Way to Work
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4484df2bb9346e31e25e233bc62e2ee66411ef4130d7c73bb620e400d0fa9baf" />
The woman, a single mother, shared her experience on Threads, playfully beginning her post with: &ldquo;Who doesn&rsquo;t want free money??&rdquo; She went on to explain that she had fractured her foot after slipping into a roadside drain while dropping off her child at school &mdash; part of her usual journey to work.
&ldquo;It was kinda funny at first, but the pain was like death! I couldn&rsquo;t even stand,&rdquo; she wrote. Parents nearby helped carry her to the car, and her fianc&eacute; rushed her to a nearby clinic. The injury was so severe that a specialist later confirmed it required immediate surgery the very next day. Her X-ray showed seven fractures in her foot, including an avulsed peroneal tendon &mdash; a serious and painful injury.
Two Months of Recovery &ndash; And a PERKESO Lifeline
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fc4addafaf4db47dc1f1b08d72de2a2c2197f7bedb792f33387b7fdd41129f32" />
She was placed on two months&rsquo; medical leave and had to use a wheelchair and crutches during her recovery. Knowing she contributed to PERKESO via salary deductions, she investigated whether she qualified for the Temporary Disablement Benefit &mdash; and found that she did.
Crucially, PERKESO confirmed her eligibility despite the accident occurring while dropping her child at school and not yet being at her workplace. As it was part of her regular route to work, it counted as a valid commuting injury under PERKESO guidelines.
PERKESO then contacted her to verify her story. When asked why she didn&rsquo;t use public transport, she explained that as a single mother living in Bukit Damansara, owning a car was a necessity due to poor public transport access in her area.
Her claim was approved just four days after submitting the required documents.
Quick and Efficient Processing
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/490d416ad076a1824f7aa6affa0be418d57ede352dd05e22cf6bcbd7b8b728ac" />
She submitted her application at the PERKESO Jalan Tun Razak branch. Within five minutes, her number was called. The entire submission process took under 10 minutes.
The next day, she received a phone call for follow-up. By 13 June, the funds were deposited into her account. Her experience was so smooth that she praised PERKESO for their efficiency and even encouraged others to make use of their entitlements.
&ldquo;Thank you, PERKESO, for making things easier for this single mum,&rdquo; she said emotionally.
What Is Temporary Disablement Benefit?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/cddd2d8def74a52c392aaa1a3fb2cd82804758d0d51fe66da7015ffef8f0d80d" />
According to PERKESO&rsquo;s official site, the Temporary Disablement Benefit (HUS) provides daily income support of 80% of your average assumed daily wage. The payout ranges from a minimum of RM30 to a maximum of RM158.67 per day. You must receive medical leave of at least four days (including the day of the accident) to be eligible.
This benefit is part of PERKESO&rsquo;s broader Employment Injury Scheme, which also includes:
<ul>
<li>Medical Benefits</li>
<li>Permanent Disablement Benefit</li>
<li>Constant Attendance Allowance</li>
<li>Vocational and Physical Rehabilitation</li>
<li>Dependents&rsquo; Benefit</li>
<li>Funeral Management Allowance</li>
<li>Education Benefits for Children</li>
</ul>
Additionally, PERKESO also administers the Invalidity Scheme, which provides 24-hour protection in cases of illness or disability not related to work. It includes benefits such as:
<ul>
<li>Invalidity Pension</li>
<li>Invalidity Grant</li>
<li>Constant Attendance Allowance</li>
<li>Survivor&rsquo;s Pension</li>
<li>Rehabilitation Facilities</li>
<li>Dialysis, Return-To-Work Support</li>
<li>Funeral and Education Benefits</li>
</ul>
There is also the Employment Insurance System (SIP), which offers financial assistance to those who have lost their jobs under qualifying conditions.
How to Make a Claim: Required Documents
To ensure your claim goes smoothly, make sure you prepare and submit the following documents:
<ol>
<li>Form 34 (downloadable from the PERKESO website)</li>
<li>Copy of your NRIC</li>
<li>Original medical certificate (MC) &mdash; keep a second copy for yourself</li>
<li>Payslips from the six months prior to the accident</li>
<li>Attendance record for the month of the accident</li>
<li>Bank statement from a local bank</li>
<li>Police report lodged at a station near where the accident occurred</li>
<li>Hand-drawn route map from home to your workplace showing your travel path</li>
</ol>
You&rsquo;ll also need to get your HR department to sign and stamp Form 34 before submission.
She chose to walk in rather than submit her documents online, explaining that doing so allowed her to confirm everything was in order on the spot &mdash; and get a receipt as proof of submission.
Submit Within 3 Months &ndash; Or Risk Rejection
Importantly, she reminded others that all claims must be submitted within three months of the incident. Claims made after that period will not be entertained, regardless of the reason.
Don&rsquo;t Overlook Your Rights
She concluded her post with a simple message: &ldquo;This is your right. PERKESO is here to protect us workers. Just follow the steps and prepare your docs properly.&rdquo;
Whether you&rsquo;re injured at work, on your way there, or returning home &mdash; you may be entitled to benefits you never even knew existed.
For more information, visit the <a href="https://www.perkeso.gov.my">official PERKESO website</a>.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Unaware of PERKESO’s support? It’s time to know what you're entitled to.

82458a0bee3dc16f00a262d7f9161a5ba04d9504cecc98fece3604cdedaa43da

Know Your Rights: How A Single Mum's PERKESO Claim Was Approved In Just Four Days

From 1 July 2025, Malaysia will implement a sweeping expansion of the Sales and Service Tax (SST), as part of the government&rsquo;s broader MADANI economic reform agenda. The overhaul, announced in Budget 2025 and detailed by Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, is aimed at enhancing national revenue, reducing fiscal deficits, and improving public services without placing excessive pressure on ordinary Malaysians.
The Ministry of Finance has said the move is designed to strengthen the country's fiscal position, broaden the tax base, and upgrade infrastructure and the social safety net. While some consumers are bracing for price hikes, analysts believe the impact will vary across sectors.
What&rsquo;s Staying Tax-Free (No changes)? 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/79c27172b858d662193a9988c6ecc237fd3a3d68503dada61bd91b6c3822cc90" />
The good news for Malaysian households is that core staples and daily necessities remain zero-rated. This includes:
<ul>
<li>Unprocessed food: chicken, beef, fish, prawns, squid</li>
<li>Local produce: fruits and vegetables</li>
<li>Staples: rice, sugar, cooking oil, flour, pasta, noodles, milk</li>
<li>Essential goods: medicines, pet food, books, newspapers, journals</li>
<li>Construction inputs: cement, sand, stones</li>
<li>Agricultural supplies: fertilisers, pesticides, farming equipment</li>
<li>Medical devices and livestock feed</li>
</ul>
These items are protected to maintain affordability and protect vulnerable groups.
5% Sales Tax: Luxury Food and Industrial Goods 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2e9c195f5592d1198fb0fd40b05932be0c611242fda41a0db738983bc3bb6c93" />
A moderate 5% sales tax will now apply to a selection of luxury or imported products, reflecting their non-essential nature. Among the revised or newly taxed items in this tier:
<ul>
<li>King crab, salmon, cod</li>
<li>Truffles and imported strawberries</li>
<li>Essential oils and silk fabrics</li>
<li>Industrial machinery</li>
</ul>
Items already in the 5% bracket and unchanged include abalone, lobster, quinoa, cheese, fruit jams, and smartphones.
10% Sales Tax: High-End Goods and Collectibles 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/834ff1c3e41f102895c36e3d47a35916f461b7a92500f9d4a9c1dfd840c52eca" />
The 10% bracket targets premium and luxury categories. Revised items include:
<ul>
<li>Racing bicycles</li>
<li>Antique and hand-painted artworks</li>
<li>Tungsten scrap waste</li>
</ul>
Caviar, shark fins, alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, cigars, and leather products remain taxed at 10%.
Expanded Service Tax: What&rsquo;s Affected?
The service tax, previously limited in scope, has now been extended to six new categories, with rates of 6% or 8%, depending on the sector. Notably, the government has built in exemptions and grace periods to ease the transition, particularly for small businesses and ongoing contracts.
<ol>
<li> Construction Services (6%) </li>
</ol>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0781a862147735e98fb447d6211da1bc8b7a1f673a53f9f0dc23fc48eafc91d4" />
Tax applies to construction work on infrastructure, commercial, and industrial buildings exceeding RM1.5 million in annual revenue. However, residential projects and public housing are exempt. Business-to-business (B2B) services and contracts signed before July 1 will enjoy a 12-month exemption.
<ol start="2">
<li> Financial Services (8%) </li>
</ol>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7aad389470a344b4921fa173860faa58ff29bdb0d8e454bdaa0b7d6773238e26" />
Fee-based or commission-driven services, such as loan processing, will be taxed. However, exemptions include:
<ul>
<li>Basic banking and Islamic financing</li>
<li>Capital markets and foreign exchange gains</li>
<li>Outward remittances</li>
<li>Shariah-compliant structures</li>
<li>Services by Bursa Malaysia and Labuan-based institutions</li>
</ul>
<ol start="3">
<li> Private Healthcare (6%) </li>
</ol>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9d04d8a67d8283b10c78d09ae54444a042cdda7dc68f6bb707e40a0187ab412a" />
Applies only to non-Malaysians. Malaysian citizens are fully exempt, including for traditional and complementary treatments such as Malay, Chinese, Indian, Islamic medicine, chiropractic care, and physiotherapy.
<ol start="4">
<li> Private Education (6%) </li>
</ol>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5d6bbac4f3294df37ac6cea5eda7139c3ce24131e9f8302fd3ac1e2fa641d494" />
Only affects:
<ul>
<li>Private preschools, primary, and secondary schools charging over RM60,000 annually per student</li>
<li>Higher education institutions for international students</li>
</ul>
Malaysians and persons with disabilities are exempt.
<ol start="5">
<li> Beauty Services (8%) </li>
</ol>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4a6975b08f4460e98298a32f97b71f1fb05daf98a80973dda3990dd6d3dede35" />
Includes facials, hairdressing, tattoos, body slimming, and similar services provided by businesses earning over RM500,000 annually.
<ol start="6">
<li> Rental and Leasing (8%) </li>
</ol>
Imposed on companies with revenue over RM500,000 per year from leasing or rental services. Exemptions include:
<ul>
<li>Residential property rentals</li>
<li>Reading materials</li>
<li>Financial leases</li>
<li>Tangible assets located overseas</li>
<li>MSMEs and B2B transactions</li>
<li>Existing contracts (12-month grace period)</li>
</ul>
Business and Market Response
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3a14e8e0b78dbd1517971a48fe904e1bcff718e67cf3105ab5326ae833557064" />
Despite consumer concerns over potential price hikes, analysts from CIMB Securities and Hong Leong Investment Bank have suggested the expanded SST will have a limited impact on inflation and broader economic performance.
CIMB warned of potential margin pressure for consumer-facing businesses, especially those selling discretionary or luxury goods, as companies may absorb part of the cost increases to maintain affordability. Conversely, essential goods manufacturers and retailers are expected to weather the changes better, buoyed by consistent demand.
HLIB, meanwhile, maintains that sectors such as construction, banking, and healthcare are largely insulated due to cost pass-through capabilities and strong regional competitiveness.
The Finance Ministry projects inflation to remain within a manageable range of 2.0% to 3.5%, thanks to the targeted nature of the revised tax framework.
A Grace Period for Compliance
To ease the transition, the government has announced a non-punitive grace period until the end of 2025, during which no enforcement action will be taken against businesses making a genuine effort to comply.
Further clarity is expected in the coming weeks, as the Finance Ministry and Royal Malaysian Customs Department will issue detailed guidelines, regulations, and FAQs to help businesses and consumers navigate the updated SST regime.
While Malaysians brace for the SST expansion, it is clear the government has opted for a targeted, strategic approach &mdash; exempting essentials while taxing luxury goods and services more likely consumed by higher-income groups. Businesses will need to adapt quickly, but with transitional support and careful policy design, the impact on everyday Malaysians may be less severe than feared.
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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From beauty salons to imported fruit, the revised tax regime reshapes daily spending — but essentials remain untouched.

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