Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

China

manus

Monica

start up

execution

autonomous

game changer

China&rsquo;s latest artificial intelligence (AI) innovation, Manus, is making waves in the global AI landscape. Developed by start-up Monica, this AI agent has been described by Chinese state media as the world&rsquo;s first truly general AI agent. Unlike traditional AI models, such as ChatGPT or Google&rsquo;s Gemini, which rely on human input, Manus is designed to independently plan, think, and execute tasks without guidance.
With its March 6 launch, Manus has reignited discussions about the future of AI and what it means when AI stops waiting for instructions and starts making its own decisions. The introduction of Manus could mark a pivotal shift from generative AI to a more advanced, fully autonomous AI agent capable of executing real-world tasks with minimal human oversight.
Beyond Chatbots: The Fully Autonomous AI Agent 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bcc3d3debbe63619bc2140a09e538c867d21cbc5d548fc08339d72327212fa7a" />
Unlike AI assistants that generate text-based responses, Manus delivers tangible results. Whether it is planning a trip, analysing stock trends, or screening job candidates, Manus can handle complex workflows without direct human involvement. The system employs a multi-agent architecture, functioning like an executive overseeing a team of specialised sub-agents. These sub-agents collaborate to break down and execute complex tasks efficiently.
For example, if a user asks, &ldquo;Find me an apartment in San Francisco,&rdquo; Manus does not merely present a list of available properties. It analyses crime rates, weather patterns, rental trends, and even unstated preferences before delivering a carefully curated selection of the most suitable homes. Similarly, when managing an investment portfolio, Manus can autonomously evaluate market conditions, execute trades, and adjust strategies in real-time, potentially outperforming human analysts.
This level of independence has led some industry observers to compare Manus&rsquo;s launch to DeepSeek&rsquo;s rise in early 2024. DeepSeek V3 stunned the AI community by challenging OpenAI&rsquo;s models, but Manus takes this competition to another level&mdash;moving beyond generative AI into the realm of decision-making and execution.
The Technology Behind Manus
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e95c41e8fb6f5d0e4e41eaec8fc23741cf23e76a623703058572718802d8eb5d" />
Manus is not just another AI model; it is an assemblage of multiple models, built on Anthropic&rsquo;s Claude 3.5 Sonnet and refined versions of Alibaba&rsquo;s Qwen models. The system integrates with 29 tools and open-source software, allowing it to browse the web, interact with APIs, execute scripts, and develop software autonomously.
What truly sets Manus apart is its ability to function asynchronously in a cloud-based environment. Unlike AI agents that require users to keep their browsers open, Manus continues working in the background, notifying users only when tasks are completed. This makes it highly efficient, resembling an invisible assistant capable of executing tasks with precision and speed.
Moreover, Manus&rsquo;s decision-making framework employs advanced reinforcement learning techniques, allowing it to refine its strategies over time. This means the more users engage with Manus, the smarter and more efficient it becomes at handling complex tasks, from legal document analysis to autonomous code debugging.
A Challenge to Silicon Valley&rsquo;s AI Dominance?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c0a1a74a1169265f28bec38d6a6ac387c41786d71a8a368d8521f421e38416e4" /> Left: China&rsquo;s Silicon Valley
Manus&rsquo;s capabilities are raising eyebrows in Silicon Valley, where tech giants have long assumed that incremental improvements to large language models would secure their dominance. However, China&rsquo;s AI ambitions have rapidly evolved, and Manus signals that the country is not only catching up but potentially surpassing Western AI development in certain areas.
The emergence of Manus as a fully autonomous AI agent has significant implications. It introduces a paradigm shift&mdash;from AI as an assistant to AI as an independent decision-maker. If successful, it could disrupt industries by automating roles traditionally requiring human judgment and expertise. Some experts have even suggested that Manus may mark the &ldquo;industrialisation of intelligence,&rdquo; forcing companies to adopt AI-driven automation to remain competitive.
Furthermore, with China&rsquo;s government backing AI research at an unprecedented scale, Manus may just be the beginning of a wave of disruptive AI technologies. If Silicon Valley fails to innovate at a comparable pace, the balance of power in the AI race could shift dramatically.
Ethical and Regulatory Concerns
Despite its promise, Manus raises serious ethical and regulatory questions. If an AI agent autonomously makes a poor financial decision or an incorrect hiring choice, who bears responsibility? Traditional AI regulations assume that human oversight is a necessity, but Manus challenges this assumption.
Chinese regulators, historically more willing to experiment with AI deployment, have not yet established clear guidelines for fully autonomous AI agents. Meanwhile, Western regulators may struggle to adapt, as their frameworks are based on the expectation that AI remains under human control.
Another major concern is job displacement. Unlike previous AI models that enhanced workplace efficiency, Manus has the potential to replace human roles entirely. From software development to recruitment, Manus can independently complete tasks that once required specialised professionals. The widespread adoption of AI agents like Manus could force policymakers to reconsider economic structures, including the need for universal basic income and new employment models.
Additionally, the cybersecurity implications of autonomous AI agents cannot be overlooked. An AI agent that operates independently across networks and databases presents a significant security risk if exploited by malicious actors. Without stringent security measures, Manus or similar AI agents could be manipulated to perform harmful actions at an unprecedented scale.
Exclusive Access and High Demand
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f3ca06de7db434155427ba9eb93c88377af10393d1ad467f8b6d86c689924958" />
Currently, access to Manus is limited to users with an invitation code. The high demand for these codes has created a resale market, with prices ranging from 999 yuan (~RM606) to an astonishing 50,000 yuan (~RM30,500) on second-hand platforms.
The Manus development team has acknowledged the overwhelming interest and stated that limited server capacity is the primary reason for the restricted access. Monica&rsquo;s partner, Zhang Tao, reassured users that the company is working to expand access as soon as possible.
However, the exclusivity of Manus raises questions about AI accessibility. If only a select few can access such a powerful AI tool, does this widen the gap between technological elites and the rest of society? The monopolisation of advanced AI could have far-reaching consequences, from economic disparity to geopolitical tensions.
Watch the full video below:
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K27diMbCsuw?si=AJ79K1yXRIWL0ill" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
The Future of AI: A World Run by Autonomous Agents?
The introduction of Manus signals the beginning of a new era in artificial intelligence&mdash;one where AI agents act independently, making decisions and executing complex tasks without human intervention. While the prospect is thrilling, it also comes with significant challenges, including regulatory concerns and the potential for widespread job disruption.
As AI technology continues to evolve, the rest of the world must decide how to adapt. Whether Manus becomes a stepping stone toward artificial general intelligence (AGI) or simply the first of many self-directed AI systems remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: China&rsquo;s AI ambitions are reshaping the future, and the global tech community must prepare for a rapidly changing landscape.
The road ahead is uncertain, but one thing is clear&mdash;AI is no longer just a tool; it is becoming a force capable of shaping economies, societies, and the very fabric of human decision-making itself.
&nbsp;What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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An AI agent that doesn’t just respond—it executes. Manus can analyse CVs, research properties, and track stocks autonomously.

7d18711ef1df44fb82a3b2a3a9da332967e33be2443202df12ee6244a3b5f9a2

Manus: China’s AI Breakthrough That Could Redefine The Industry

Bolt, one of Europe&rsquo;s leading mobility platforms, has introduced a notable upgrade to its ride-hailing service in Malaysia by fully integrating toll fares into the ride fare shown before booking. The company now stands as the first e-hailing provider in the country to roll out this feature, offering passengers and drivers a more seamless, transparent experience.
This enhancement, while seemingly minor from a technical standpoint, addresses a major operational pain point that has long affected the local ride-hailing industry: how tolls are handled. Until now, toll charges were typically calculated separately and often settled manually between drivers and passengers after the trip&mdash;leading to pricing disputes, delayed reimbursements, and general confusion on both ends.
With this update, the full fare&mdash;including any tolls incurred along the route&mdash;is calculated and shown upfront in the app, allowing passengers to see the total cost before confirming their ride.
Understanding Malaysia&rsquo;s Toll Landscape
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5d61d2fbb2c3f129970c78e6b22cf80910fd0c88fb2545e716f076ad6cdc39be" />
Malaysia&rsquo;s road system includes nearly 200 toll booths operating under three different systems: open, closed, and hybrid. As a result, determining the correct toll charge for any given route can be complicated, particularly in dense urban areas such as the Klang Valley, where expressways and toll roads are an everyday part of commuting.
Bolt says approximately 30% of its rides in Malaysia currently pass through at least one toll. This makes the toll integration feature highly relevant for a large portion of its user base, both in terms of accuracy and convenience.
Afzan Lutfi, General Manager of Bolt Malaysia, said in a statement: &ldquo;Integrating toll fares directly into our ride calculations reflects our understanding of everyday driving challenges in Malaysia. We know that tolls are an essential part of the driving experience here, and by automating the process, we eliminate unnecessary guesswork for both partner drivers and passengers.&rdquo;
Improved Transparency for Passengers
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d10f80dd1ace28208695dd87fe6e16e2fa8c3e2684a7a8c1296646fd36ec8a98" />
With this move, Bolt is addressing one of the most common sources of frustration among ride-hailing passengers&mdash;hidden or unexpected costs. By displaying the final fare (inclusive of tolls) before the ride begins, Bolt offers a &ldquo;what you see is what you pay&rdquo; model that enhances customer trust and reduces the chances of disputes.
It also eliminates the need for passengers to carry extra cash or manually reimburse drivers at the end of a ride, something that had become particularly inconvenient during cashless transactions or high-traffic hours.
Although other e-hailing platforms, such as Grab, have teased similar initiatives in neighbouring countries like Singapore, none have yet introduced this feature locally in Malaysia&mdash;making Bolt&rsquo;s implementation a first in the market.
Operational Efficiency for Drivers
The integration is equally beneficial to partner drivers, who no longer need to manually track, calculate, or input toll charges post-trip. This change removes a layer of administrative work, particularly during busy hours, and ensures that drivers are properly compensated for every toll incurred during the journey.
Rahimah Ismail, a Bolt driver based in the Klang Valley, shared her experience: &ldquo;Before this, tracking tolls during peak periods was tricky. Now, everything is upfront&mdash;it saves time and avoids misunderstandings with passengers.&rdquo;
Bolt claims that this update is part of its broader mission to support driver earnings and improve efficiency. The platform is also working on further enhancements, including refined pickup distance management and more streamlined access to driver earnings. These updates, unveiled during Bolt&rsquo;s recent Raya Open House and driver engagement session, are based on direct feedback from the company&rsquo;s partner community.
A Tailored Approach to the Malaysian Market
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7de203c9083ced6f2ed4dd340d147a07b19549a758a175dd28fbcd354ac22c73" />
By focusing on small but meaningful local adaptations, Bolt is positioning itself as a platform that understands the nuances of driving and commuting in Malaysia. Toll roads are an inescapable reality for many Malaysians, and addressing this challenge with a practical tech solution shows the company&rsquo;s commitment to localising its service.
In contrast to a one-size-fits-all approach, Bolt&rsquo;s strategy reflects a growing awareness among international tech platforms: to succeed in Malaysia, understanding and adapting to on-the-ground realities is key.
As Afzan noted, &ldquo;At Bolt, we believe that greater transparency leads to better experiences, and this feature is part of our wider commitment to making urban mobility more reliable, fair, and convenient for everyone. We look forward to rolling out more locally relevant innovations in the months ahead.&rdquo;
Redefining Ride-Hailing in Malaysia
Bolt&rsquo;s toll integration may appear to be a simple feature on paper, but in practice, it significantly improves the overall e-hailing experience. By reducing disputes, simplifying operations, and improving cost clarity, Bolt is redefining what passengers and drivers can expect from a ride-hailing platform.
With continuous updates and a strong focus on user and driver feedback, Bolt is not only competing with more established players like Grab&mdash;it is also setting new standards for how ride-hailing should work in Malaysia.
This update is part of a broader trend towards building smarter, more efficient urban mobility systems&mdash;where both drivers and riders benefit from less friction, more reliability, and fairer earnings and fares.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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bef1bee1c23668051643c9838c1c20b9e3ced08deb122b18b2d916b2cbaed87b

Bolt Becomes First E-Hailing Platform In Malaysia To Include Toll Charges In Upfront Ride Fares

Shopee sellers are bracing for yet another increase in operational costs as the e-commerce platform confirmed a hike in its SPayLater seller fee. The change, set to take effect on 8 May 2025, will see the fee rise from 3.5% to 4.5% for all completed orders involving the SPayLater payment option.
The update was announced through Shopee&rsquo;s official Seller Education Hub, continuing a trend of rising charges for merchants using the platform.
What Is SPayLater? 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a62796e4303ff33bf724897f79a3f39b982bad43119b1080a6710fedfa3de146" />
SPayLater is Shopee&rsquo;s Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) scheme, designed to give buyers flexibility in managing their purchases. The feature enables customers to split their payments over installment plans ranging from one to 24 months. Instalments up to three months typically carry no extra fees for buyers, but longer tenures can incur charges of up to 36%, depending on the duration.
However, while buyers may choose whether or not to use SPayLater, sellers are automatically enrolled in the programme with no option to opt out. This means they must absorb the associated transaction fee regardless of whether they benefit directly from the instalment feature.
Why Are Sellers Frustrated?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e816e805f983200358e1b1830eb38cfdc3be9218e22e47533de142280683cf1c" />
The fee hike has been met with widespread frustration among Shopee merchants, many of whom took to online seller communities to express their discontent. One recurring point of criticism is the lack of transparency&mdash;Shopee has not provided any formal explanation for the increase.
Many sellers are questioning why they are being penalised when it is ultimately the buyer&rsquo;s decision to use the SPayLater facility. The platform&rsquo;s insistence on making SPayLater mandatory for eligible sellers has only fuelled further resentment.
A number of sellers have even suggested raising their prices to cushion the impact of the new fee, potentially making Shopee less competitive for buyers as a result.
Sellers Speak Out: &ldquo;It&rsquo;s Getting Too Much&rdquo;
Among those voicing concern is Loh, a power tool seller who requested partial anonymity. Speaking to local media, Loh said that the compounding cost of selling on Shopee&mdash;including this new SPayLater fee&mdash;is driving him to reconsider the platform entirely.
&ldquo;My business has to contend with more and more extra fees, and I&rsquo;d need to hire someone just to operate and manage the sales channel,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s pushed my business away from focusing too much effort towards selling on Shopee.&rdquo;
A Pattern of Increasing Charges
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5268806b0bc67a485230899cca302a30408a47ee615a61836d3eb4fcd5c7d8bc" />
This latest update follows a previous hike in August 2024, when Shopee increased its general Transaction Fee for sellers from 2% to 3.5%&mdash;a move that excluded SPayLater and credit card payments at the time. That change, too, received criticism from small business owners struggling to maintain margins on the platform.
It&rsquo;s also worth noting that the new 4.5% SPayLater fee is subject to Malaysia&rsquo;s 8% Sales and Service Tax (SST), effectively making the total cost to sellers even higher.
Shopee&rsquo;s Justification &mdash; and What&rsquo;s Missing
While Shopee has highlighted that SPayLater can increase a seller&rsquo;s gross merchandise value by offering flexible payments to buyers, it has not justified the fee hike directly or provided any context for the additional cost burden. The omission has left many sellers feeling alienated, especially as BNPL platforms typically share costs across both buyers and sellers in a more transparent manner.
What&rsquo;s Next for Shopee Sellers?
As sellers scramble to adjust to the updated fee structure, questions remain about Shopee&rsquo;s long-term strategy and its impact on small and medium-sized businesses. If costs continue to rise without improved support or clearer communication, more sellers like Loh may look to alternative platforms or offline sales.
For now, the 4.5% fee for SPayLater orders will go into effect from 8 May 2025, and sellers will have no choice but to comply &mdash; or reconsider their future on the platform.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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To offset the higher fee, some sellers may begin raising their product prices.

d833dc61e66b6ef0a5823f527e207e67a587df0bf7f6b63aee2eaa945ecfefb6

Shopee Hikes SPayLater Seller Fee To 4.5% From 8 May

Beloved modern retro band MASDO has officially marked a decade in Malaysia&rsquo;s music scene with an unforgettable fan event and the exciting announcement of a full-scale anniversary concert this coming August. Known for their infectious throwback sound and strong fanbase, the trio celebrated the milestone in true MASDO fashion&mdash;complete with mystery, music, and meaningful moments.
Who Are MASDO?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e538077f77e8c082276bd4428214797733e1621ac04a10d25713438864318adc" />
&nbsp;MASDO is a Malaysian pop rock band known for their modern take on 1960s "pop yeh yeh" music, blending retro styles with contemporary flair. Formed in 2015, the band comprises Ali Sariah (vocals/guitar), Putu Ceri (bass/backing vocals), and Asmawi (guitar/backing vocals). Their name, inspired by the character "Do" from the classic P. Ramlee film Do Re Mi, reflects their homage to Malaysia's musical heritage.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ft8oLwsoIN0" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
MASDO gained widespread recognition with their debut single "Bunga" in 2016, followed by hits like "Dinda," "Janji Manis," and "Pujaanku" featuring Aisyah Aziz. Their song "Dinda" achieved viral status on TikTok in Indonesia, leading to over 60 million streams on Spotify by January 2025. The track also reached the finals of Anugerah Juara Lagu 34 in 2020.
The band's discography includes the albums Selamat Tinggal Pujaan (2017) and Jalan Abbey (2020), the latter recorded at London's iconic Abbey Road Studios. In 2024, they released the single "Perih Jerih" and embarked on a tour across Indonesia, performing in cities like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Bali.
In recognition of their growing influence, MASDO was nominated for Best Asia Act at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards, marking a significant milestone in their international presence.
With their distinctive style and commitment to reviving classic Malaysian pop, MASDO continues to captivate audiences both locally and abroad.
A Night to Remember at Saloma KL
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b955a4d9b2b8ca5a8ba8b37d6992d378f5d5ae70fb658bf08604c96f5da73ff2" />
On 30 April 2025, over 200 devoted fans and media guests gathered at Saloma Bistro in Kuala Lumpur for a special event titled Perjumpaan Ahli Mesyuarat Tingkap. MASDO had spent days teasing the event on Instagram through cryptic posts, prompting widespread speculation online. When the night arrived, it turned out to be more than just a gathering&mdash;it was a heartfelt celebration of their journey and an intimate thank-you to fans.
In appreciation of the fans who have supported them through thick and thin, MASDO performed a live mini showcase featuring some of their most beloved hits. Songs such as Dinda, Lautan Asmara, Janji Manis, Bunga, and Berchanda di Malam Indah echoed through the venue, with fans singing along and soaking in the retro vibes that have become the band&rsquo;s trademark.
The performance was not just entertainment&mdash;it was a walk down memory lane, and a prelude to something much bigger.
&lsquo;Al-Kisah Masdo Sepuloh Tahun&rsquo;: The Concert Announcement 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d985497ed017dab5df98e46115af20fec0f93716e4c6e2fc8ac772c2b88adc05" />
The climax of the evening came when MASDO dramatically unveiled the poster for their 10th-anniversary concert. In a symbolic reveal, a cloth draped over the MATIC building was pulled down, exposing the details of Al-Kisah Masdo Sepuloh Tahun&mdash;a grand concert scheduled for 30 August 2025.
This milestone show will be held at Idea Live Arena KL @ 3 Damansara, a brand-new venue with a 7,000-capacity. MASDO will be the first act to perform there, promising fans a high-energy yet intimate experience steeped in nostalgia and celebration.
Ticketing and Pre-Registration Details
Fans eager to be part of this momentous occasion can pre-register for early bird Rockzone tickets priced at RM128 between 30 April and 1 May. Once public sales begin, tickets will be available at RM148 for Rockzone (free standing) and RM198 for Category 1 (seated).
A New Album in the Works
Speaking to the media after the event, band members Ali Sariah, Asmawi, and Putu Ceri expressed their heartfelt gratitude to fans. &ldquo;For them to turn up here itself is a fantastic gift for all of us,&rdquo; said Ali. Reflecting on the journey, he added, &ldquo;It has been an exciting ride. The last 10 years were full of ups and downs, but breaking into the Indonesian market was a major achievement.&rdquo;
The trio also revealed they have been hard at work on a brand-new album to coincide with their 10th anniversary. &ldquo;We want this album to be special,&rdquo; they shared. &ldquo;And we hope those who have been with us from the beginning will also join us at the concert&mdash;it&rsquo;s a gift for them too.&rdquo;
You can stream their music below:
<iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/artist/2r1WoyhX1FSc7AmcF8rkoO?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" loading="lazy"></iframe>
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Don’t miss MASDO live this 30th August – it’s their biggest show yet!

3a380d067c0d6de7c8140b7cea203a7b599619fbd4c4b333dc798bd40bff1ca0

MASDO To Mark A Decade With “Al-Kisah Masdo Sepuloh Tahun” Concert!

The federal government is actively exploring the possibility of broadening the scope of its FLYSiswa initiative to include land transport subsidies for students in Peninsular Malaysia. This potential expansion of the programme&mdash;currently limited to subsidised air travel&mdash;was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during a dialogue session at the Management and Science University (MSU) in Shah Alam on Monday.
Calls to Extend FLYSiswa Beyond Air Travel
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d81bea9b68f60e671282fdc87aea7736db677d2d4a80a913b01167a8b4498c9c" />
The proposal came in response to a question from a student participant, who suggested that the government extend the FLYSiswa initiative to land-based transport such as buses and trains. The student noted that many students in the peninsula still struggle with travel costs when returning home, particularly those attending universities far from their hometowns.
Anwar acknowledged the concern and said the idea warranted serious consideration. He confirmed that discussions would soon be held with Transport Minister Anthony Loke to evaluate how the scheme could be adapted to better serve students throughout the country&mdash;not just those travelling between East and West Malaysia.
"As for FLYSiswa in the peninsula, I&rsquo;ll discuss it with the Transport Minister,&rdquo; Anwar said. &ldquo;Perhaps for certain areas or specific locations, we can look into implementing it. The needs of students in the peninsula are just as important and deserve to be reviewed.&rdquo;
What is FLYSiswa?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7b926fa80d674293c5e3d5cc5455736884d622380625523f8188030e3ec5a745" />
The FLYSiswa programme is an annual government initiative introduced under the Ministry of Transport. It provides subsidies for flight tickets for students at public universities, polytechnics, and community colleges under the Ministry of Higher Education, as well as students in matriculation centres and teacher training institutes under the Ministry of Education.
Its core aim is to ease the financial burden of students travelling long distances for academic purposes, especially those commuting between Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah, Sarawak, and the Federal Territory of Labuan. The scheme has proven particularly vital during festive periods, when airfares can surge dramatically due to high demand.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4048/flysiswa-2025-how-to-apply-for-the-public-university-travel-subsidy">FLYsiswa 2025: How To Apply For The Public University Travel Subsidy</a>
High Airfares During Festive Seasons Prompt Government Action
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ed489deaa1b776141067ae9e3eda26299c076509630e9c8e69d98a85e71c1612" />
Anwar noted that the primary reason East Malaysian students were prioritised in the current FLYSiswa rollout is due to the consistently high price of domestic flights to and from the Bornean states. He said airfares tend to rise sharply around Hari Raya, Christmas, and other festive periods, placing immense financial pressure on families and students.
"We need to ensure that ticket prices remain reasonable and that there is no price exploitation," the Prime Minister stressed. &ldquo;If a ticket usually costs RM20 and suddenly doubles during a festive season, that&rsquo;s unacceptable. The government is duty-bound to intervene and create mechanisms to prevent such unreasonable hikes.&rdquo;
He added that while airline fare regulation falls under the purview of market forces, there must be a balance to prevent profit-maximising practices from disadvantaging those who can least afford them.
Inclusion of Land Transport Would Mark Major Shift 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/df38df80ddbebf3a77316de31f48966ec02547a0cee8784814d79728329df7b0" />
If implemented, the expansion of FLYSiswa to include land transport in Peninsular Malaysia would be a significant shift in policy. It could potentially cover bus and train travel for students who face long or costly commutes between their hometowns and university campuses, especially in rural or underserved areas.
While the Prime Minister did not confirm the exact modalities or timeline for such an expansion, he reiterated the government&rsquo;s commitment to ensuring equitable access to education-related support for all students, regardless of geography.
Revamping the Perdana Fellow Programme for Greater Youth Access
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2784947d97aafb7ec15848de0099b4c32654cd233a35ef0e944757264a7a6b06" />
In a related announcement, Anwar also revealed plans to expand and improve the Perdana Fellow Programme. The initiative, established in 2013, was designed to expose young Malaysians to the inner workings of government through direct mentorship under ministers and senior officials.
According to the Prime Minister, the Akademi Kenegaraan Malaysia is spearheading a review of the programme to allow more young people to participate, including those who may not qualify for the current highly selective intake.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re in discussions to enhance the programme, and not everyone needs to be an official fellow to benefit,&rdquo; Anwar explained. &ldquo;We want to provide opportunities for more young Malaysians to interact with national scholars, senior leaders, and policymakers in structured, meaningful ways.&rdquo;
He stressed that the programme plays a crucial role in helping future leaders understand the responsibilities of governance while shielding them from misinformation and baseless accusations about the administration&rsquo;s work.
Engaging the Youth Through Exposure and Opportunity
The Prime Minister emphasised that initiatives like FLYSiswa and the Perdana Fellow Programme are part of the government&rsquo;s broader effort to invest in Malaysia&rsquo;s future by empowering its youth.
&ldquo;We must ensure our young people are supported not just in their academic journey, but also in their development as informed, capable citizens,&rdquo; he said.
The Temu Anwar session at MSU was attended by over 4,000 students and marked the Prime Minister&rsquo;s first formal engagement with a private university. Also present were Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, MSU President Tan Sri Dr Mohd Shukri Ab Yajid, and Vice-Chancellor Prof Puan Sri Dr Junainah Abd Hamid.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Since some areas are harder to reach, land transport offers a more practical and cost-effective alternative.

6b2aac4daac1fba6405d99345db574e90f7bb3469ee500e47dac76971941dea9

Govt May Expand FLYSiswa To Include Land Transport For Peninsular Students, Says Anwar

Netflix has unveiled the first teaser trailer for the hotly anticipated third season of its record-breaking Korean dystopian thriller Squid Game, confirming a global premiere date of 27 June 2025. Marketed as the final chapter in the main saga, Season 3 promises even higher stakes, emotional turmoil, and a reckoning that could bring the entire deadly enterprise crashing down &mdash; or see it evolve into something even more terrifying.
A Global Streaming Phenomenon Like No Other
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0037363f23c764535b21437862951d0639cacc14aa06aa2d60a88b37bd4d6bdf" />
When Squid Game first premiered in September 2021, few could have predicted the cultural impact it would ignite. With its brutal depiction of a twisted competition where debt-ridden players fight &mdash; and die &mdash; for a life-changing cash prize, the series struck a nerve globally. Season 1 shattered records with 265.2 million views, becoming the most-watched Netflix series of all time.
The long-awaited Season 2, which dropped in December 2024, didn&rsquo;t just live up to expectations &mdash; it rewrote them. The sophomore outing pulled in 192.4 million views within its first few days, ranking second on Netflix&rsquo;s all-time list for non-English language series and reaffirming the franchise&rsquo;s dominance in the streaming era.
With both critical acclaim and a ravenous fanbase behind it, Netflix opted to film Seasons 2 and 3 back-to-back, ensuring narrative continuity and production momentum. The decision has enabled the final season to arrive just six months after the previous one &mdash; a rare turnaround in the age of multi-year delays.
Gi-hun&rsquo;s Return: A Hero&rsquo;s Grief Turns to Vengeance
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/893aee1445c046680e22e753287b808d876778306372ef2a143ca91761b5681f" />
Season 3 picks up immediately where Season 2 left off, with Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), also known as Player 456, choosing not to board a flight to the United States, instead turning back toward the source of his trauma. After the devastating death of his friend and ally Jung-bae (played by Lee Seo-hwan) &mdash; executed by the enigmatic Front Man for attempting to expose the organisation &mdash; Gi-hun resolves to bring down the game from the inside.
This season, Gi-hun is no longer a reluctant survivor. He returns as a man fuelled by loss, rage, and a sense of responsibility for the lives destroyed by the games. As series creator Hwang Dong-hyuk teased, &ldquo;He&rsquo;s on a path of no return now. The question is not just whether he can survive, but whether he can live with what he must do.&rdquo;
According to early previews, viewers can expect a far darker, more psychological version of Gi-hun &mdash; a transformation that reflects the moral ambiguity of dismantling an institution from within.
Unveiling the Trailer: Mystery, Symbolism, and a New Game of Chance
&nbsp;<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CH0dGVRecec" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
The teaser trailer, which premiered on 6 May, opens with a haunting visual callback: masked pink-suited guards solemnly carry a black coffin, wrapped in a pink ribbon, into the arena &mdash; a familiar symbol of the game&rsquo;s brutal &lsquo;elimination&rsquo; ritual. Players gather around in fearful silence, only to discover Gi-hun inside, unconscious.
As he awakens, the camera cuts to a towering gumball machine dispensing red and blue spheres &mdash; possibly signalling a new set of rules, alliances, or fates. One orb lands ominously at Gi-hun&rsquo;s feet. Just before the screen fades to black, the cry of a baby echoes, fuelling speculation among fans that a pregnant player may give birth mid-game &mdash; a chilling metaphor for innocence trapped in a world of cruelty.
The tone is immediately more visceral and urgent than previous seasons. While Squid Game has always leaned on childhood nostalgia as a thematic tool, the trailer suggests that innocence, birth, and moral choices will play a central role in this final season.
Who&rsquo;s Returning for Season 3?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c797f1ebec023be624009868e931c970638d97e58ad40fb69c7182c70ad1312b" />
Several familiar faces are set to reprise their roles, continuing storylines that have captured fans worldwide:
<ul>
<li>Lee Byung-hun as the cold, calculating Front Man, whose own motivations and backstory have only begun to unravel.</li>
<li>Wi Ha-jun returns as detective Hwang Jun-ho, who miraculously survived his apparent death and is now closer than ever to exposing the game&rsquo;s organisers.</li>
<li>Yim Si-wan as Myung-gi (Player 333), the unpredictable recruit with a dark intellect.</li>
<li>Kang Ha-neul as Dae-ho (Player 388), a man haunted by his past and increasingly unstable.</li>
<li>Park Sung-hoon, Yang Dong-geun, Kang Ae-sim, and Jo Yu-ri return in their respective player roles.</li>
<li>Park Gyu-young is back as No-eul, the pink-suited guard whose conflicted morality hints at the possibility of rebellion within the ranks.</li>
</ul>
This diverse ensemble cast brings together new and old blood, promising complex alliances, betrayals, and unlikely friendships under the game&rsquo;s unforgiving pressure.
&nbsp;
Creator&rsquo;s Vision: Hwang Dong-hyuk&rsquo;s Story Comes Full Circle
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/18afd0db90d01d7b6f38dc90ef0a82ec6adddb3ae90ddc7c40a0ac45f87f1b1f" />
Series creator and director Hwang Dong-hyuk, who won an Emmy for Season 1 and returned to direct all six episodes of the final season, described Season 3 as a &ldquo;mirror and magnifier&rdquo; of the real world&rsquo;s growing inequality. He has previously stated that while Season 1 represented individual desperation, and Season 2 focused on resistance, Season 3 is about systemic collapse &mdash; or the failure thereof.
&ldquo;There is no escape,&rdquo; Hwang recently said in a press event. &ldquo;Even when you think you&rsquo;ve broken the game, the game changes shape and finds a way to survive. That&rsquo;s what Gi-hun is up against.&rdquo;
Spin-Offs, Games, and a Cinematic Universe in the Making
Although Season 3 is being positioned as the end of the main story, Netflix is not letting go of the Squid Game franchise anytime soon. A mobile title, Squid Game: Unleashed, was released in 2024 and remains one of the top-downloaded strategy games on both Android and iOS platforms. Netflix has also confirmed it is developing a spin-off, rumoured to be helmed by Mindhunter director David Fincher, though details remain under wraps.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f7ac65c1b4bc5e2d9c5f8cd6e9e308a32743f03c710259e1ac334f53269165c0" />
A second season of the real-life competition series Squid Game: The Challenge is also in production, blending reality TV with game show mechanics to capitalise on the original series&rsquo; popularity.
With Stranger Things also concluding later in 2025, Netflix&rsquo;s shift toward Korean-led franchises underscores its global strategy &mdash; one that increasingly depends on high-concept, high-stakes storytelling beyond the English-speaking world.
The Endgame Begins
As the teaser draws to a close, Gi-hun stands in a sea of black coffins, the pink ribbons fluttering like taunts. His face is stoic. He reaches down, picks up the red ball from the gumball machine, and stares at it. The screen cuts to black. A single sentence appears: &ldquo;One last game.&rdquo;
With mounting tension, philosophical depth, and visual spectacle promised in every frame, Squid Game Season 3 is not merely the conclusion of a storyline &mdash; it&rsquo;s the climax of a cultural event that has defined a generation of streaming television.
Prepare to play. 27 June 2025. Only on Netflix.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Mark your calendars – the final game begins on 27 June.

c378c79480e5276681cabf58fd3732169c15f1e35b24c9b0315c294ba6ce5e72

‘Squid Game’ Season 3: Netflix Drops Teaser Trailer Ahead Of Explosive Finale

Malaysia&rsquo;s booming headscarf industry has long been a testament to the increasing demand for modest fashion, driven in part by celebrity-led brands. However, one of the country&rsquo;s major manufacturers is now facing financial hardship, claiming it is owed millions by a company linked to one of Malaysia&rsquo;s most recognisable stars&mdash;actress and entrepreneur Nur Fazura Sharifuddin.
According to legal documents and media interviews, Obor Holding Sdn Bhd&mdash;the owner of headscarf brand Feline Malaysia&mdash;is taking legal action against Fazura&rsquo;s company, alleging a debt of RM4.65 million stemming from unpaid supplies.
Legal Dispute Over Unpaid Hijab Orders
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/90e426a9f88504534ed4e254a0d9dae81c63f97f8105a215046d9a49550ed990" />
In a statement elaborated by Kosmo Online, Obor Holding alleges that Fazura&rsquo;s company, Pink Fate Sdn Bhd, received headscarf stock worth over RM7.3 million since June 2022. Of that total, only RM2.68 million has been paid, leaving an outstanding sum of RM4,650,029.14.
Pink Fate is widely associated with the Tudung Fazura brand, a popular hijab line co-founded by the celebrity herself. The claim further alleges that payment collection became increasingly difficult from December 2023 onwards, despite repeated reminders and attempts to settle the issue amicably.
Fazura and Family Named as Defendants
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2be703f8c98b988c624fbae83d5988097247bb8eb9e67b6eb95b20c21fbc7e5c" />
Besides Pink Fate Sdn Bhd, the statement names several other parties as defendants in the lawsuit. Fazfit Sdn Bhd&mdash;believed to be behind Fazura&rsquo;s skincare range&mdash;is listed as the second defendant, while Fazura&rsquo;s brother, Ahmad Faiz Sharifuddin, is the third, and Fazura herself the fourth.
Obor Holding claims that in mid-2024, five additional headscarf orders were placed, amounting to RM3.6 million, despite the company already being in arrears. These new orders were said to be part of the &ldquo;Merdeka Collection&rdquo;, a joint initiative with the Ministry of Education to commemorate Malaysia&rsquo;s 67th Independence Day. According to the claim, Faiz had assured the manufacturer that the orders were backed by government funding.
To bolster confidence, Faiz and Fazura reportedly referenced collaborations with well-established institutions such as Boh Plantations (BOH), Movenpick Hotel, and the National Cancer Institute (IKN), as proof of their financial capability and credibility. This reassurance allegedly led Obor Holding to continue fulfilling orders in good faith.
Cheque Bounce Deepens Financial Blow
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/584412f44fbad5755fefb4079f05e4ccb2ead996369737f071fae84092e1ec03" />
Despite the volume of goods supplied, Obor Holding claims it has yet to receive any further payments. The manufacturer also revealed that in September 2024, it was handed a cheque worth RM1 million, co-signed by both Fazura and her brother. However, the cheque was dishonoured, and the company received a formal notice from the bank indicating insufficient funds.
All transactions referenced in the lawsuit reportedly occurred while Fazura was still a director of Pink Fate. She later stepped down in January 2025, but her brother Faiz remains actively involved in the company&rsquo;s management. In response to the ongoing non-payment, Obor Holding has initiated proceedings to obtain a Judgment in Default, as no response was filed by the defendants within the required legal timeframe.
Founder Expresses Frustration Over &lsquo;False Promises&rsquo;
 <img src="https://r2.myc.my/e43c3a2d4cd4d58ae469c23d1867f5b57ddfc060db2ee1a24b9d4556df7b1843" /> Lim Boon Hai (Sam) on the far right.
In an interview, Obor Holding founder and managing director Lim Boon Hai&mdash;also known as Sam&mdash;shared his dismay over the ordeal. He described the company&rsquo;s attempts to contact Fazura&rsquo;s team as fruitless and expressed frustration at being led on with what he called &ldquo;empty promises&rdquo;.
&ldquo;We have tried every possible method to reach them,&rdquo; said Lim. &ldquo;Since late 2023, it&rsquo;s been nearly impossible to recover the payments. Our financial position has suffered significantly because of this.&rdquo;
Lim also lamented that despite Fazura&rsquo;s public persona as a reputable figure, her company has allegedly failed to honour basic commercial commitments. &ldquo;I never expected someone as influential and well-known as Fazura to leave us hanging like this. We&rsquo;re not asking for favours&mdash;just the payment for goods we&rsquo;ve delivered.&rdquo;
He added that while he remains open to settling the matter outside court, the lack of cooperation from the other side has left him with no alternative. &ldquo;This is not the path we wanted to take. But their refusal to engage has forced us into legal proceedings.&rdquo;
Manufacturer Warns Others: &lsquo;Don&rsquo;t Be Misled by Popularity&rsquo;
Lim expressed concern that other small or medium-sized businesses might fall into similar traps when dealing with celebrity-backed ventures. &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t be too easily swayed by fame or influence. We&rsquo;ve learnt a painful lesson,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I wouldn&rsquo;t have gone public if our claims weren&rsquo;t legitimate. This is about fairness and survival.&rdquo;
He stressed that his company had operated in good faith, trusting in the reputation of Fazura and her associates. However, what started as a promising partnership has turned into a legal and financial nightmare for Obor Holding and its manufacturing subsidiary, Feline Malaysia.
Silence from Fazura&rsquo;s Camp
Attempts to obtain comments from Fazura, her brother, and her management team have so far gone unanswered. As the case proceeds in the High Court of Kuala Lumpur, it remains to be seen whether Fazura or any of the named defendants will offer a public rebuttal or propose a settlement to avoid further reputational damage and legal escalation.
Fazura isn&rsquo;t the only celebrity facing mounting debt. Late 2024 saw several public figures thrust into the spotlight&mdash;not for their talent, but for the stark contrast between their glamorous social media personas and troubling financial realities.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4024/when-luxury-masks-debt-the-financial-scandals-of-malaysias-influencers">When Luxury Masks Debt: The Financial Scandals Of Malaysia&rsquo;s Influencers</a>
The bigger question now is: how do these high-profile individuals continue to live so publicly and freely, despite owing substantial sums to others?
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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Behind the glitz and glamour, yet another Malaysian celebrity faces serious financial allegations.

Manus: China’s AI Breakthrough That Could Redefine The Industry

An AI agent that doesn’t just respond—it executes. Manus can analyse CVs, research properties, and track stocks autonomously.

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