Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

technology

science

animals

innovation

DIre Wolf

de-extinction

A creature once lost to the Ice Age has now been brought back into the light &mdash; or at least, something astonishingly close. Thanks to cutting-edge genetic engineering, the dire wolf &mdash; an apex predator whose legend has been passed down through both fossils and fiction &mdash; has returned in the form of three living, breathing pups. This remarkable feat comes courtesy of Colossal Biosciences, a Dallas-based biotech firm that has positioned itself at the forefront of a new era in conservation: de-extinction.
The Birth of a Legend Reimagined
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/06844c3c3f28424744f7d167457cf3637ab3b1c8fe4e82bd7fb4392da5d8a1c2" />
In a breakthrough hailed as both awe-inspiring and controversial, Colossal announced the successful birth of three pups genetically engineered to closely resemble Aenocyon dirus, the dire wolf species that roamed prehistoric North America until their extinction approximately 13,000 years ago. Two males were born on 1 October 2024, followed by a female on 30 January 2025.
The animals are currently housed within a highly secure, undisclosed 2,000-acre facility. This site is enclosed with zoo-grade fencing and guarded around the clock by drones, cameras, and trained personnel. The compound meets rigorous animal welfare standards, having received approval from the American Humane Society and registration from the US Department of Agriculture.
In a nod to mythology and popular culture, the pups have been named Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi &mdash; reflecting both the Roman twins raised by wolves and the fantasy-epic Game of Thrones, where dire wolves featured as loyal and formidable companions. Though the names are whimsical, the science behind their creation is anything but.
From Fossil to Flesh: Reconstructing the Genome
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6c131f5f24fcf94314ed53dea8206cc1126e4d37dc2b99c9d7f955ef0603337c" />
To recreate the dire wolf, Colossal&rsquo;s scientists first had to build its genome from ancient remains. They successfully extracted usable DNA from two remarkable finds: a 13,000-year-old tooth and a 72,000-year-old skull. These fragments, sourced from permafrost and cave deposits, provided enough material to reconstruct a near-complete genome of Aenocyon dirus &mdash; a species that, despite its resemblance to modern grey wolves, was genetically distinct and more closely related to African jackals.
With this blueprint in hand, Colossal used gene-editing tools like CRISPR to modify the DNA of modern grey wolves. Specific genes responsible for traits such as a broader skull, denser fur, white coats, enhanced jaw strength, and robust immunity were carefully inserted to create an animal that mirrors the dire wolf both physically and functionally.
Following the gene editing, the engineered DNA was used to clone embryos, which were then implanted into mixed-breed domestic dogs. Of the eight surrogate pregnancies attempted, three led to successful births. The pups are still in their juvenile stages and display some skittish behaviours, but early signs suggest they are healthy and well-adapted to their environment.
&ldquo;Not Quite Dire&rdquo;: The Philosophical Debate
The resurrection of the dire wolf, while groundbreaking, is not without its critics. Though genetically similar to the original species &mdash; with a 99.9% DNA match &mdash; these animals are technically not exact clones. Instead, they are described as &ldquo;genetic replicas&rdquo; or &ldquo;functional proxies.&rdquo;
This nuance has sparked philosophical debate in the scientific community. Professor Love Dal&eacute;n, an evolutionary geneticist at Stockholm University and one of Colossal&rsquo;s scientific advisers, notes, &ldquo;There will be a debate about how many genes must be changed to truly constitute a dire wolf &mdash; but ultimately, that&rsquo;s a philosophical question rather than a scientific one.&rdquo;
Beth Shapiro, Colossal&rsquo;s Chief Science Officer and a leading expert in ancient DNA, affirms that the goal was never to produce a perfect copy. &ldquo;These animals are not clones. They are proxies that represent the ecological and behavioural niche of the dire wolf, built from the genome up.&rdquo;
Despite this framing, some scientists and ethicists remain sceptical. Critics argue that without the ancient Ice Age ecosystems that once supported dire wolves &mdash; including massive prey like megafaunal bison and ground sloths &mdash; the animals may lack a true ecological role in today&rsquo;s world. Others worry about the long-term consequences of such experiments and whether human beings should engage in the resurrection of extinct species at all.
Conservation Through Innovation
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d85871402a8607a10ebd8cf09cf949064400e9d9c89044a010ec272cfc996442" /> Dr Christopher Mason
Colossal insists that the dire wolf project is more than a scientific novelty. It is part of a larger strategy to enhance biodiversity and resilience in conservation. The same tools used to recreate extinct species, they argue, can be applied to save endangered ones.
Indeed, Colossal has already begun cloning critically endangered red wolves using a less invasive approach. Their hope is to combat inbreeding by introducing new genetic variation &mdash; a technique that could be extended to other struggling species, including the northern white rhino and the Sumatran orangutan.
Dr Christopher Mason, a genomics specialist at Weill Cornell Medicine and an adviser to Colossal, sees this as the beginning of a new conservation paradigm. &ldquo;The technologies that enabled the birth of these pups &mdash; ancient DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, advanced cloning &mdash; are not limited to de-extinction. They represent a powerful toolkit for preserving life on Earth in the face of climate change and mass extinction.&rdquo;
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/698344609fd8b880980b32df199b47ad77a4cef03a1e50623a416d0dd804c966" />
The company has already raised over USD435 million in funding since its founding in 2021 by serial entrepreneur Ben Lamm and Harvard geneticist George Church. Their goal is to not only bring back lost species but to engineer them for survival in modern ecosystems. Future projects include the resurrection of the woolly mammoth, the dodo, and the Tasmanian tiger (thylacine), with mammoth calves expected as early as 2028.
A Jurassic Future, or Playing God?
<img src="https://64.media.tumblr.com/22627f5b5831dd4a757254bc67ff906e/tumblr_noo192Wz8Y1u5tn07o3_540.gif" alt="#jp from Jurassic Daily" />
Still, some environmental philosophers urge caution. Professor Christopher Preston from the University of Montana points out the challenges of integrating these engineered species into contemporary ecosystems. &ldquo;We are still struggling to maintain viable populations of grey wolves in places like Montana. The idea that we can simply reintroduce dire wolves &mdash; or their equivalents &mdash; into the wild ignores the complex ecological and social factors at play.&rdquo;
Others question the ethics of using domestic dogs as surrogates, especially if the procedures result in failed pregnancies or stillbirths. Animal welfare organisations are monitoring the situation closely, although Colossal insists that all protocols follow the highest ethical standards.
For now, the dire wolves &mdash; or their modern analogues &mdash; remain safely confined within their facility, studied by scientists and cared for by handlers. But their existence raises fundamental questions about humanity&rsquo;s relationship with nature: are we repairing the damage caused by past extinctions, or are we treading dangerously close to &ldquo;playing God&rdquo;?
As Colossal continues its pioneering work, one thing is clear: we have entered a new chapter in biotechnology &mdash; one where the boundary between science fiction and reality grows increasingly thin.
While the thought of reviving extinct creatures is undeniably cool, it also raises a big &lsquo;what if?&rsquo; What if we end up with our very own Jurassic Park moment? Fascinating&hellip; but also kind of terrifying. What do you think &mdash; a scientific breakthrough or a disaster waiting to happen? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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While the technology behind this is amazing, let’s just hope we won’t have a repeat of Jurassic Park IRL.

b4357ed2ae1c92b7d841ff775d7a68fef767d6494e2aabee0e6e278c7c3d5538

Dire Wolves Return: Colossal Biosciences’ Bold Leap In De-Extinction

The unexpected pairing of Muar MP Syed Saddiq and popular singer-actress Bella Astillah has taken social media by storm, with fans and netizens alike fascinated by the duo&rsquo;s growing closeness. While neither party has officially confirmed the status of their relationship, Bella&rsquo;s sister, fellow artiste Didi Astillah, recently let slip that the two are indeed in love.
This blossoming romance has developed in full view of the public eye, with the pair frequently seen working together on various brand partnerships and social media collaborations.
A Scent of Something More
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/dbf4a301db7ca75639909d56e56f4e4812d18841226346b3b25886b57b6cd403" />
The latest venture sees Syed Saddiq and Bella Astillah appointed as ambassadors for local perfume brand Dolcea. On 28 April 2025, Bella shared a series of glamorous photos on Instagram from their campaign photoshoot, where both were dressed elegantly in white while holding bottles of the fragrance.
But it wasn&rsquo;t just the visuals that caught attention &mdash; it was <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DI_a1SlzWO5/?img_index=1">Bella&rsquo;s caption</a> that truly stirred the internet. &ldquo;From Parliament to perfume, now we&rsquo;re making scents together,&rdquo; she wrote, playing on the word &ldquo;scents&rdquo; in what many interpreted as a romantic hint. However, what came next in the caption stole the spotlight: Bella revealed that Syed Saddiq had chosen to donate the entirety of his RM100,000 ambassadorial earnings to the people of Muar.
A Generous Gesture That Won Hearts
The gesture quickly gained traction, with over 97,000 likes and more than 1,700 comments pouring in. Netizens praised Syed Saddiq&rsquo;s altruism, especially given the current economic challenges many Malaysians face.
&ldquo;Not RM10k, not RM20k, but RM100,000 &mdash; all donated!&rdquo; exclaimed one user in amazement. Others complimented the MP for being an example of integrity and social responsibility, while some cheekily commented, &ldquo;From Parliament to perfume to pelaminan,&rdquo; referencing the Malay wedding aisle and further fuelling speculation of a future together.
Some even expressed envy and admiration for the people of Muar, saying they were fortunate to have such a compassionate representative. The donation was widely seen not only as a generous act but as a powerful example of how public figures can use their platforms and influence to serve the community meaningfully.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments from netizens:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d2f3a5e378c080759691bb587b1762e48fce1962088d7d3a63772dd22ea593f1" />
A Friendship Turned Something More?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/def25701f464e621743c15d16fa00f1c94d90cc3f57dcf544f682ea6438dbf8e" />
The connection between Syed Saddiq and Bella Astillah first gained public attention when they collaborated as ambassadors for a local clothing brand. Their chemistry was apparent, and the relationship appeared to strengthen further when the MP appeared in Bella&rsquo;s music video, Tapi Bukan Denganmu.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NHhMsm804nM" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Though both continue to remain tight-lipped about the exact nature of their relationship, fans have been quick to draw their own conclusions. Adding to the intrigue was Bella&rsquo;s choice of background music for the Instagram post &ndash; The Heart Wants What It Wants by Selena Gomez &ndash; a song many interpreted as a subtle confirmation of her feelings.
Court Decision Still Pending
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/aa8457fa0251080f980bdf74d95fc46ddd503b2e04bc30c17096366836651b59" />
For those who have been closely following Syed Saddiq, you may recall that he has been entangled in legal proceedings since November 2023, when the Kuala Lumpur High Court found him guilty on all four charges brought against him. These included abetting criminal breach of trust (CBT) involving RM1 million, misappropriating RM120,000 in political donations, and two counts of money laundering, each involving RM50,000.
Nevertheless, the Muar MP was granted a stay of execution pending his appeal, which means he remains free as he continues to contest the conviction.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4250/syed-saddiqs-appeal-court-hears-allegations-of-misappropriated-campaign-funds-and-attempted-cover-up">Syed Saddiq&rsquo;s Appeal: Court Hears Allegations Of Misappropriated Campaign Funds &amp; Attempted Cover-Up</a>
According to the latest updates, the Muar MP is scheduled to appear before the Court of Appeal on 25 June, where the outcome of his appeal against his conviction and sentencing over offences linked to the Armada fund will be revealed. The decision will be delivered by Datuk Ahmad Zaidi Ibrahim, who is heading the three-member panel of judges. The appeal may either be allowed or dismissed, based on a majority verdict of 2-1 or a unanimous decision.
Should the verdict go against him, Syed Saddiq will still have the option to take his case to the Federal Court for a final appeal.
Public Fascination Continues
Whether it&rsquo;s their coordinated fashion, their professional chemistry, or the subtle romantic undertones, the pairing of Syed Saddiq and Bella Astillah continues to draw attention. In a time when the public often grows weary of scandal or disconnection among politicians and celebrities, this unexpected duo appears to be rewriting the narrative.
They&rsquo;re engaging, charitable, relatable, and &mdash; if the speculation proves true &mdash; possibly in love.
Until an official confirmation is made, the public can only watch and wonder. But if one thing is clear, it&rsquo;s this: the story of Syed Saddiq and Bella Astillah is far from over. And judging by the response, Malaysia is eagerly turning the page to see what comes next.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Is Syed Saddiq trading debates for runways? Politics out, modelling in?

62dc9bc7c4e06d8402d59802796931da701ce4fa427f25b1debc35723a537931

From Parliament To Perfume: Syed Saddiq Donated RM100K To Muar After Becoming A Perfume Ambassador

A teenage girl from Johor has gone missing under distressing circumstances, prompting urgent calls for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/594197920784057/permalink/2826033707600456/">public assistance</a>. The 15-year-old, known as Yi Xuan, vanished from her home in Batu Pahat on the morning of 28 April. Her family fears she may have been abducted by a man who previously took her away without explanation.
Early Morning Disappearance Raises Alarm
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f8a2e8cf9147717c7afe1f0c460b77df4c8afe4cbd1c9112460940598d8326ca" />
Yi Xuan&rsquo;s disappearance was discovered by her grandparents, who had stepped out to buy breakfast for her that morning. When they returned, she was nowhere to be found. According to the family, Yi Xuan left the house at approximately 7am without informing anyone, wearing a yellow top and a blue denim skirt.
Her mother, Su Xingping (transliteration), reported that there had been no signs or arguments the day before that might have suggested Yi Xuan was planning to leave. The sudden nature of her disappearance has added to the family's anxiety, particularly given a troubling incident involving the same daughter just days earlier.
A Troubling Incident Just Days Before
On 23 April, five days before she went missing, Yi Xuan was unexpectedly picked up from school by an unfamiliar man. The family only found out through school authorities, who informed them that a Chinese man in a Proton Waja had collected her. The family had not authorised anyone to do so.
Fearing the worst, Su immediately lodged a police report. Fortunately, Yi Xuan returned home later that day unharmed &mdash; but refused to share where she had been taken or what had happened during her time away. The silence from the teenager left her family deeply unsettled.
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bab56d22c8b25c2fbb94a896101bcdcc53c5fe9195e47d05885591e74beac2ef" />
The man believed to be connected to both incidents is known only by the nickname &ldquo;Ah Long.&rdquo; Su revealed that this individual had been introduced to the family by a friend of Yi Xuan&rsquo;s grandfather, but beyond that, very little is known about him.
&ldquo;He&rsquo;s in his 40s, but we don&rsquo;t have his real name, and we don&rsquo;t know what he does for a living. We hardly communicate with him. After the last time he picked up my daughter, I asked her what happened, but she just wouldn&rsquo;t say anything,&rdquo; said Su.
The family has no idea when &ldquo;Ah Long&rdquo; began contacting Yi Xuan or the nature of their relationship. The lack of transparency has only deepened fears that the teenager may have been manipulated or lured away.
Phones Switched Off and a Home Left Empty
After Yi Xuan&rsquo;s disappearance on 28 April, the family attempted to contact both her and &ldquo;Ah Long&rdquo; by phone. Neither responded, and both devices have remained switched off since. In desperation, Su went to &ldquo;Ah Long&rsquo;s&rdquo; known residence, only to find that the premises appeared abandoned.
&ldquo;My family and I have searched everywhere she usually goes &mdash; parks, caf&eacute;s, and hangouts she likes. We even received a tip that someone saw a girl matching her description in Yong Peng, and we rushed there, but so far we&rsquo;ve found nothing,&rdquo; said Su.
A Family Desperate for Answers
Yi Xuan&rsquo;s sudden silence, her connection to a mysterious older man, and the circumstances surrounding her disappearance have left her family deeply worried and emotionally drained. Her mother expressed frustration over the lack of leads and the fear that something sinister may have happened.
&ldquo;She didn&rsquo;t leave any messages. No clues. She just vanished,&rdquo; Su said, holding back tears. &ldquo;We are so afraid for her. If anyone has seen her or knows anything, we just want her home safe.&rdquo;
Police Reports Filed, Public Urged to Help
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d4b069213cb3a98ab7c49ec904017cbd03b4fc4a8fe934f7639b0b24f8c19f7c" />
The family has lodged a second police report following the 28 April incident. Authorities have not yet issued a formal statement, but the family hopes that media coverage and public awareness might lead to crucial information.
Anyone with knowledge of Yi Xuan&rsquo;s whereabouts is urged to come forward immediately. Those who may have seen her, or who have any information about &ldquo;Ah Long&rdquo;, are encouraged to reach out to her family or the nearest police station.
Contact details for leads:
<ul>
<li>Yi Xuan&rsquo;s mother, Su: 011-1099 5864</li>
<li>Yi Xuan&rsquo;s grandfather: 016-784 9778</li>
<li>Or report directly to the nearest police station</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

Her family suspects a man known as ‘Ah Long’ may have abducted her, after he previously picked her up from school without permission.

36c74d4e279ce1e17563cde039ebc05d8962a13eae98eeef96eb31fa28a6383e

15-Year-Old Girl Goes Missing In Batu Pahat, Johor; Family Fears Possible Abduction

Nothing has officially launched the CMF Phone 2 Pro, the second device under its vibrant and budget-friendly CMF sub-brand. Continuing the company&rsquo;s experimentation with modular smartphone design, the Phone 2 Pro introduces improved internals, upgraded cameras, a bright AMOLED display, and an extended accessory ecosystem. While the modular approach remains a core attraction, questions linger about the long-term direction of the CMF platform.
A Bold Step Forward From the First CMF Phone
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7b83af96e9c116258764e1bae261281eecddd8334181fd88965bdec1376f4954" />
Compared to the original CMF Phone 1, the Phone 2 Pro marks a substantial upgrade across key areas. The previous model featured an interchangeable backplate that allowed users to customise the phone&rsquo;s appearance. However, in this iteration, CMF has opted for a more durable solution &mdash; screw-on rear covers that sit atop the phone&rsquo;s existing back. This change could explain the improved IP54 water and dust resistance, up from the IP52 rating of the original device.
In terms of design, the new phone retains its playful identity, with colour options in Orange, White, and Black, while a Green variant will launch globally but is currently not expected in Malaysia. The phone&rsquo;s dimensions &mdash; a slim 7.8mm profile and 185g weight &mdash; keep it comfortable in hand, despite the addition of modular components.
Internally, the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro chipset powers the phone, offering a 10% CPU and 5% GPU improvement over its predecessor. It includes 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD. Notably, the device runs on Nothing OS 3.2 based on Android 15, and promises three years of operating system updates and six years of security patches, aligning with premium smartphone support cycles.
Modular Ecosystem and Accessory Enhancements
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/71312e0830be2a54c20bbf89e722f637cd8c32b7df6ac93f681f4d23eb2c3dfe" />
What truly sets the CMF Phone 2 Pro apart is its continued focus on modularity. Users can opt for various screw-on accessories, such as a kickstand-wallet combo, interchangeable camera lenses, and a bold orange lanyard &mdash; the latter being the only carryover accessory compatible with both the Phone 1 and Phone 2 Pro.
The new lens system is perhaps the most exciting addition. Buyers receive both macro and fisheye lenses, which easily clip into a circular ring around the primary 50MP camera. The macro lens proves especially useful, producing sharper close-up shots than typically expected from budget phones, which often rely on sub-par ultrawide sensors.
However, the accessories require the purchase of a separate rear cover, a design choice that introduces compatibility concerns. For instance, the included transparent case cannot be used with the screw-on accessories. Even more awkwardly, certain combinations &mdash; such as using the lanyard with the kickstand &mdash; result in a physically imbalanced setup when propped up vertically, an oversight that contradicts CMF&rsquo;s own promotional imagery.
High-End Display and Capable Cameras
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2e770fe062e9600a2c4e9e2711996e38574bccac4df6e1d8d4ec9e272f529460" />
The CMF Phone 2 Pro features a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with 1080p resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, 10-bit colour, HDR10+, and Panda Glass protection. It boasts a peak brightness of 3,000 nits and 2,160Hz PWM dimming, offering an excellent viewing experience and improved eye comfort for extended use.
Photography sees a marked leap from the Phone 1. The new model offers a triple-camera array, including a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens with 20x digital zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide camera, plus a 16MP front-facing camera for selfies. Video capture supports 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 60fps, with AI-powered image stabilisation rounding out the package.
Battery life is also commendable, with a 5,000mAh cell supporting 33W fast charging and 5W reverse charging. The addition of NFC for contactless payments addresses a notable shortcoming from the first-generation device.
A Trio of Earbuds for Every Budget
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9ec6ab3f8b2755c12f66cb59c644a56fb6e77f36507ee7fa0033724584592559" />
Alongside the smartphone, CMF also launched three new wireless earbuds: Buds 2a, Buds 2, and Buds 2 Plus. Each model serves a different tier of user needs &mdash; from budget-conscious buyers to those seeking premium audio experiences.
<ul>
<li>CMF Buds 2a is the entry-level option, equipped with 12.4mm bio-fibre drivers, 42dB ANC, and a lightweight design. Despite its price, it offers Bluetooth 5.4, IP54 water resistance, dual device connection, and up to 35.5 hours of playback without ANC.</li>
<li>CMF Buds 2 steps into the mid-range, offering 11mm drivers, Spatial Audio Effect, and Ultra Bass Technology. It supports up to 48dB hybrid ANC, and boasts Dirac Opteo audio tuning, with up to 55 hours of battery life.</li>
<li>CMF Buds 2 Plus is the premium variant, equipped with 12mm drivers, LDAC codec support for Hi-Res Audio, and Ultra Bass 2.0. It delivers up to 50dB ANC, and comes with advanced features like in-ear detection, low latency mode, and up to 61.5 hours of playback.</li>
</ul>
All three models support touch controls, Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair, and integration with the Nothing X app, which includes voice control features powered by ChatGPT.
Long-Term Viability and Compatibility Concerns
While the CMF Phone 2 Pro offers excellent specifications and a fun modular experience at a competitive price point &mdash; RM1,199 in Malaysia for the 8GB + 256GB version &mdash; concerns remain about the future of its modular ambitions
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f35c824c867e12223a1e8de6280ad7f81ddb19f266a4a61ad17a4755364db88a" /> Left: CMF Phone 1 and the lineup of accessories; Right: Mounting system of new CMF Phone 2 Pro
In the nine months since the release of the CMF Phone 1, Nothing has not expanded its accessory ecosystem. Worse still, the new Phone 2 Pro introduces an incompatible mounting system, meaning most previous accessories no longer function with the updated model. This shift raises valid questions about the brand&rsquo;s commitment to modular innovation.
There is also a practical dissonance between the modular vision and the budget focus. Essential accessories like the rear cover are sold separately, despite being required for most add-ons. The out-of-box experience, including an incompatible case, doesn&rsquo;t fully align with the phone&rsquo;s intended use case.
Some small design flaws &mdash; such as accessory combinations leading to physical instability, or limited accessory stock in certain markets &mdash; add to these concerns. And while performance, battery life, and software support are promising, the longevity of the ecosystem may determine whether the Phone 2 Pro is simply a quirky one-off or the start of something sustainable.
Final Thoughts
The CMF Phone 2 Pro is an ambitious follow-up that refines Nothing&rsquo;s vision of affordable modular smartphones. It excels in display quality, performance, camera hardware, and even software longevity. Paired with its diverse accessory line-up and new earbuds, the phone forms part of an ecosystem that is imaginative and accessible.
Yet the true test lies in Nothing&rsquo;s ability to sustain and expand this modular approach. Without continued accessory support or backward compatibility, the novelty risks becoming short-lived. For now, the CMF Phone 2 Pro remains one of the most exciting and experimental budget smartphones on the market &mdash; but how long that excitement lasts is up to Nothing.
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.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

The best part? It’s a well-equipped phone priced at just RM1,199.

a947e7ab67abfbe9c527589148129bf04eef7e070eaf661f5670ad3211d868d9

CMF Phone 2 Pro Debuts With Modular Ambition And Flagship Features

In a move that has caught many by surprise, former DIA (다이아) member Somyi (안소미) is attempting a return to the South Korean entertainment industry. Her comeback, managed by her new agency Moden Berry Korea (MBK), comes after a highly publicised series of controversies, including her imprisonment for making a false accusation against her former management company's CEO.
On 26 April 2025 (KST), MBK officially announced Somyi's re-entry by releasing newly taken profile photographs across their social media platforms. Referring to her as their "new artist," the agency has confirmed that Somyi is actively preparing for her new activities and is currently reviewing various opportunities.
Speaking to entertainment outlet TENASIA, MBK commented, &ldquo;Somyi is an artist who is attracting attention for her consistent growth and distinctive presence. She is now considering a variety of content opportunities and projects that will allow her to show new sides of herself to the public.&rdquo;
Who Is Somyi?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7ab306a5d5e066b397156af0d3682ac8e1a4d275b5cab77a89e99fcdf89227eb" />
Ahn Som-yi, known by her stage name Somyi, is a South Korean singer and former member of the girl group DIA, formed by MBK Entertainment. She joined DIA in April 2017 as the group's lead dancer, vocalist, rapper, and youngest member.
Somyi debuted with DIA through their second full-length album YOLO and participated in the sub-unit BCHCS. She gained further recognition by competing in the KBS survival show The Unit, where she ranked 12th in the final lineup. ​
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kDCEm4mkurs" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Throughout her time with DIA, Somyi contributed to various releases, including the single "Seoraksan in October," a duet with fellow member Yebin featured on the Love Generation album. DIA received several accolades during her tenure, such as the Rising Star Award at the 2017 Asia Artist Awards and the Photogenic Award at the 2017 Soribada Best K-Music Awards. ​
An Expanded Role: Behind the Scenes with a New Boy Group
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/229adbd44d0ea682c7c012ad3f1ae1820eb9b3c4e2c18e5196c4e43e4ddf713d" />
Somyi&rsquo;s comeback is not limited to her own musical pursuits. As part of her new journey with MBK, she is set to play a major role in the production of a new boy group, tentatively named Earth Boys. The group is projected to debut sometime in 2028.
According to MBK, Somyi will be heavily involved in multiple aspects of the group&rsquo;s launch, including music production, choreography and performance coordination, concept development, and visual direction. This marks a significant shift for the former idol, moving from performing on stage to working behind the scenes in a creative and strategic capacity.
It remains to be seen whether her experience as a performer will translate into success as a producer and creative director, but MBK appears confident that her understanding of the industry and artistic vision will be valuable assets.
A Troubled Past: From False Allegations to Imprisonment
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c7c9f3da065aa3cd5f5213a8190ea333d7974ff244fa56e9cb2fa9102612fe4c" />
However, Somyi&rsquo;s return is not without controversy. In February 2024, she was sentenced to 18 months in prison by the Seoul Central District Court&rsquo;s Criminal 2nd Division for filing a false accusation against her former agency&rsquo;s CEO, known in court documents as "Mr. B."
The case began when Somyi accused Mr. B of attempted sexual assault. Initially, her claims led to an official police investigation. However, upon reviewing CCTV footage from the day of the alleged incident, inconsistencies were found between her statements and the recorded evidence. While she claimed she had fled the office in distress, surveillance footage showed her walking calmly around the premises and even embracing the CEO at one point.
Prosecutors suggested that Somyi had fabricated the allegations in an attempt to pressure Mr. B, who was reportedly in a relationship with another woman at the time. They further argued that her behaviour was inconsistent with that of a typical victim and accused her of attempting to manipulate the situation to her advantage.
While Somyi&rsquo;s defence team argued that her judgment was impaired due to alcohol consumption and challenged the notion of a "perfect victim," the court ultimately rejected her claims. The judge stated, &ldquo;The crime of false accusation is a serious offence that can subject an innocent individual to wrongful criminal punishment. The defendant&rsquo;s act of falsely accusing and providing misleading statements to investigative authorities is morally reprehensible.&rdquo;
Release Following Appeal
Following her conviction, Somyi appealed the verdict. In June 2024, the court agreed to suspend her original 18-month sentence for two years, under the condition that she complete 160 hours of community service. Consequently, Somyi was released from prison.
Despite being granted a suspended sentence, public sentiment remained largely critical, with many questioning her credibility and expressing concern over her future activities in the entertainment industry.
Previous Scandal: Transition to Adult Content Broadcasting
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d2dd7eb7a712a79944d781c2a6b2f36329e1002309ca967be4dc7edef5943bb4" />
Even before her legal troubles, Somyi had already faced public backlash for her career choices following her departure from DIA. In 2022, she transitioned into a role as a broadcast jockey (BJ) on PandaTV, a streaming platform infamous for hosting adult-oriented content.
Fans who once admired her as an idol were disheartened to discover her new occupation involved the production of mature, sexually suggestive material. This decision tarnished her image further, especially within the conservative Korean entertainment sphere, where idols are often held to rigid standards of behaviour both on and off stage.
Somyi has since retired from PandaTV and is no longer active as a BJ, but the damage to her public image has lingered.
Industry and Public Reaction: Can She Truly Make a Comeback?
In South Korea&rsquo;s fiercely competitive and highly conservative entertainment industry, public trust is hard-won and easily lost. Cancel culture remains deeply entrenched, and those involved in criminal cases, particularly involving allegations of a sensitive nature, often find it difficult, if not impossible, to revive their careers.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4189/kim-soo-hyun-faces-massive-backlash-over-alleged-relationship-with-late-actress-kim-sae-ron">Kim Soo-hyun Faces Massive Backlash Over Alleged Relationship With Late Actress Kim Sae-ron</a>
Although MBK is positioning Somyi for a comeback, industry insiders and fans alike remain sceptical about her prospects. Many question whether audiences will be willing to separate her current work from her past controversies, especially so soon after her release and in a cultural environment that values humility, accountability, and personal conduct.
Nonetheless, it appears that MBK is determined to offer Somyi a second chance, perhaps hoping that her talents, both as a performer and behind the scenes, can eventually outweigh the negative perceptions.
Whether the public is ready to accept her again&mdash;and whether she can truly reinvent herself&mdash;remains to be seen.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

The real question is: will she regain public trust, or become yet another victim of cancel culture? 

3ebaa5196b535b7a3036e4588be978f4408f04ebf8edbc44a1226ec9a9308a9d

Former DIA Member Somyi Attempts Comeback Following Prison Sentence And Controversy

Online applications for the 2025 JPA-MARA Special Programme are now officially open, starting 28 April 2025 at 2.00 pm and will close on Sunday, 11 May 2025 at 5.00 pm.
The announcement was made via a post on the official Facebook page of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), encouraging eligible students to seize this opportunity promptly.
Convertible Loan Sponsorship for Outstanding Bumiputera Students
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ed9395c197fa483bb7dfe86c36b0026885ce2a18d749682588401a70c0394029" />
The programme offers a Convertible Loan sponsorship designed to support high-achieving Bumiputera students who have successfully completed their 2024 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations.
This sponsorship enables recipients to pursue Preparatory and First Degree studies either locally or overseas. The ultimate goal is to nurture Malaysia&rsquo;s next generation of professionals in key industries.
Fields of Study and Destinations
Under this initiative, selected students will have the opportunity to further their studies in prestigious institutions across Japan, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Malaysia.
The fields of study supported under the programme include:
<ul>
<li>Engineering</li>
<li>Science and Technology (S&amp;T)</li>
<li>Accounting</li>
<li>Economics</li>
<li>Finance</li>
<li>Social Sciences</li>
</ul>
These areas are prioritised to align with Malaysia&rsquo;s future development needs and the country's goal of becoming a high-income nation.
General Eligibility Criteria
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5581de1ae7d3c8bebfa310469abd794b46a2e75071fdfb1bba02271e0e24cf0a" />
Applicants must fulfil the following general conditions to be considered for the 2025 JPA-MARA Special Programme:
<ol>
<li>Ethnic Background and Citizenship:</li>
<ul>
<li>The applicant and at least one parent must be of Malay or Bumiputera descent and must be Malaysian citizens.</li>
</ul>
<li>Health Requirements:</li>
<ul>
<li>Applicants must be free from any chronic, infectious diseases, or medical conditions requiring continuous treatment, and must be certified medically fit to complete their studies.</li>
</ul>
<li>Blacklist Status:</li>
<ul>
<li>Neither the applicant, nor their parents, should be blacklisted by the Public Service Department (JPA) or involved in any ongoing legal action against JPA.</li>
</ul>
<li>Sponsorship Status:</li>
<ul>
<li>Applicants who are successfully offered this sponsorship must not be in receipt of any other financial aid or scholarships for studies at the same academic level.</li>
</ul>
<li>SPM Examination:</li>
<ul>
<li>Candidates must have sat for the SPM 2024 examination for the first time, either through a government secondary school or as a private candidate.</li>
</ul>
<li>Age Limit:</li>
<ul>
<li>Applicants must be below 19 years old as of 31 December 2024.</li>
<li>Transfer students are given a slight extension and must not be above 20 years old by the same date.</li>
</ul>
</ol>
How to Apply
Students interested in applying are encouraged to visit the <a href="https://esilav2.jpa.gov.my/online_progs/epermohonan/index.php?program=PKJM&amp;fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNElwMFFpU1JUTlRHR1d4SQEeoTQEiWEXxZ94mYLNTIfh3urmVGMcToJ56zBjq4wTcTxAXwyOcWCp09YDxD0_aem_zG6LNWvpNreK6rsFlRis_g">official application portal</a>. For further enquiries, applicants may contact 03-8885 3297 or email lepasanspm2025@jpa.gov.my for assistance.
A Stepping Stone Towards a Brighter Future
The 2025 JPA-MARA Special Programme represents a vital stepping stone for talented Bumiputera youth to access world-class education and realise their potential in critical sectors.
To all aspiring applicants: Best of luck in your applications and future studies!
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

Apply early and seize this valuable opportunity!

Dire Wolves Return: Colossal Biosciences’ Bold Leap In De-Extinction

While the technology behind this is amazing, let’s just hope we won’t have a repeat of Jurassic Park IRL.

Latest News

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Former DIA Member Somyi Attempts Comeback Following Prison Sentence And Controversy

Applications For The 2025 JPA-MARA Special Programme Now Open Until 11 May

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From Parliament To Perfume: Syed Saddiq Donated RM100K To Muar After Becoming A Perfume Ambassador

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Former DIA Member Somyi Attempts Comeback Following Prison Sentence And Controversy

Applications For The 2025 JPA-MARA Special Programme Now Open Until 11 May

Related Articles

From Parliament To Perfume: Syed Saddiq Donated RM100K To Muar After Becoming A Perfume Ambassador

15-Year-Old Girl Goes Missing In Batu Pahat, Johor; Family Fears Possible Abduction

CMF Phone 2 Pro Debuts With Modular Ambition And Flagship Features

Former DIA Member Somyi Attempts Comeback Following Prison Sentence And Controversy

Applications For The 2025 JPA-MARA Special Programme Now Open Until 11 May