Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

finance

ewallet

loans

digital banking

GX Bank

FlexiCredit

TNG eWallet users now have another option when it comes to accessing financing, following a new partnership between TNG Digital and GXBank.
Through the integration, eligible users can now apply for GXBank FlexiCredit directly through the CashLoan feature in the TNG eWallet app, without having to open a separate GXBank bank account.
The move expands TNG eWallet&rsquo;s growing financial services ecosystem, giving its more than 27 million verified users access to another form of regulated financing through an app many already use for their daily transactions.
What Is GXBank FlexiCredit?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/92d93520ecc80fe04982ad00ae51835720ae6a4d0f62dc20cdee7fe6d75444e4" />
Unlike a conventional personal loan that gives you a fixed lump sum, FlexiCredit works as a revolving line of credit.
Once approved, users receive a credit limit of up to RM150,000, which they can draw from whenever they need it. Instead of borrowing the entire amount upfront, users only take out the money they require.
As the amount borrowed is repaid, the available credit limit is replenished, meaning users can access the remaining facility again without submitting a new application. GXBank says there are also no annual or processing fees, while interest is only charged on the amount actually drawn down.
Repayment periods range from six to 60 months, with flat interest rates starting from 3.78% per annum, equivalent to an effective interest rate of 6.45% per annum.
Apply Without Opening A New Bank Account
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/876a223f059ee8f8e3b6533bf53769016e60dc3fb77b3174590361e7e7f6512e" />
One of the main benefits of the new TNG eWallet integration is that eligible users do not need to open a separate GXBank account to apply.
The application can be completed through GOFinance &gt; CashLoan within the TNG eWallet app.
Users can select their preferred credit limit and repayment tenure, provide their income information and complete the required identity verification. Depending on their employment status, supporting documents such as an EPF statement or bank statement may also be required.
TNG Digital and GXBank said the integration is aimed at making regulated financing more accessible, particularly for Malaysians who may have limited credit history or find traditional banking processes more difficult to navigate.
Who Can Apply For FlexiCredit?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ee07f0996c5f45fbe73d571754b6048b6eea83f80c91b7474703f3b61b9877d9" />
The facility is available to eligible Malaysian citizens who meet GXBank's requirements.
Applicants need to have a fully verified TNG eWallet account and meet the applicable age and income criteria. The stated minimum gross income is RM1,500 per month, or RM18,000 annually, with both salaried and self-employed individuals able to apply.
However, approval is not guaranteed simply because someone meets the basic requirements.
The financing offer shown through CashLoan is determined based on the applicant's eligibility, requested amount and repayment period, as well as the bank's credit assessment and applicable regulatory requirements.
How To Apply Through TNG eWallet
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The application process is designed to be completed digitally.
After opening the TNG eWallet app, users can tap GOFinance, head to CashLoan and select GXBank FlexiCredit.
From there, applicants can choose their desired credit limit and repayment tenure before providing their financial and employment details.
Once submitted, applications can typically be processed within minutes, although the actual approval time may vary depending on the information and documents required.
Approved users can then access their available credit through the CashLoan dashboard and draw down funds when needed.
What Could Malaysians Use It For?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/24e34c656579bf901b537f43fbb8bcb6153a30f6f5e80c23ab5786b6e5661fc0" />
According to GXBank, existing FlexiCredit users are using the facility for purposes including emergencies, managing cash flow and making larger purchases.
Its revolving structure could be useful for people who do not necessarily need a large amount of money at once but want access to an approved credit facility when unexpected expenses arise.
However, as with any form of borrowing, users should consider the interest costs and ensure they are comfortable with the repayment commitments before drawing down funds.
Part Of TNG eWallet's Growing Financial Ecosystem
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/35d58c747003fdd8d6d5a745335d6dd165bee65e679b50709458dc9f430ca6d7" />
The partnership is part of TNG Digital's wider push to turn TNG eWallet into more than just a payments platform.
Its GOFinance hub already brings together various financial services, including investments, insurance, credit and remittance options. By integrating products from financial institutions such as GXBank, TNG Digital is aiming to create a broader financial ecosystem within a platform Malaysians already use regularly.
For GXBank, meanwhile, bringing FlexiCredit directly into TNG eWallet provides another way to reach customers who may prefer managing their finances digitally.
Another Step Into Digital Banking
The new integration means eligible Malaysians can now access up to RM150,000 in revolving credit through TNG eWallet, without needing to separately sign up for a GXBank account.
With flexible repayment periods and the ability to draw funds only when needed, FlexiCredit is positioned as an alternative to traditional lump-sum personal loans.
Still, the key point is that it remains a credit facility, not free cash. Users should carefully consider the interest rate, repayment period and amount they can realistically afford before using it.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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You can now apply for GXBank FlexiCredit via TNG eWallet without opening a separate bank account.

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TNG eWallet Users Can Now Apply For GXBank FlexiCredit Of Up To RM150,000

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Cornetto

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AXE MLBB

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BIllie Eilish UMMY

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Coke Fifa

Macklemore has been removed from the remaining US dates of Ed Sheeran&rsquo;s Loop Tour after the rapper made pro-Palestinian remarks during performances at New Jersey&rsquo;s MetLife Stadium, reigniting a wider debate over artists using major concert platforms to speak about political and humanitarian issues.
The Seattle-born rapper had been scheduled to support Sheeran across several remaining US shows, but the tour promoter confirmed that he would no longer perform after multiple venues reportedly objected to having him on the line-up.
The decision follows Macklemore&rsquo;s comments on 4 September, when he told a packed MetLife Stadium audience that a major reason he wanted to join the tour was to use the platform to say &ldquo;Free Palestine&rdquo; and remind people in Gaza and the occupied West Bank that they had not been forgotten.
Why Was Macklemore Removed From The Tour?
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Wanting all humans to be treated equal should never be controversial. <a href="https://t.co/BOJ9xMoIZn">pic.twitter.com/BOJ9xMoIZn</a>
&mdash; Macklemore (@macklemore) <a href="https://x.com/macklemore/status/2097033800811507990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote>

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Macklemore&rsquo;s appearance on the Loop Tour came under scrutiny after his speech at MetLife Stadium, where he also criticised Israel&rsquo;s actions in Gaza and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
During his performance, he showed footage depicting destruction in Gaza before performing &ldquo;Hind&rsquo;s Hall&rdquo;, his protest song supporting Palestinian protesters.
The remarks quickly attracted criticism. The Israeli American Council called for Macklemore to be removed from the tour, while singer Pink also commented on the controversy, saying she did not object to the words &ldquo;Free Palestine&rdquo; themselves but expressed concern about the impact the comments had on members of the Jewish community.
Macklemore subsequently reiterated his position during another performance at MetLife Stadium on 5 September, saying that criticism of Israel and opposition to what he described as apartheid and genocide should not be interpreted as criticism of Jewish people.
Macklemore Has Been A Longtime Supporter Of Palestine
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/62af9acc512a29a8a9daba0c972f24d199765c277b85980a5ac7ee14612c9b6b" />
Macklemore&rsquo;s comments did not come out of nowhere. The rapper has been an outspoken supporter of Palestinian rights for several years and has repeatedly used his music and public appearances to address the conflict.
One of his most prominent examples is &ldquo;Hind&rsquo;s Hall&rdquo;, which was released in 2024 following pro-Palestinian student protests at Columbia University.
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The song was named after Hind Rajab, a Palestinian girl who was killed in Gaza, and Macklemore used the track to voice support for Palestinians and condemn Israel&rsquo;s military campaign in Gaza. He also directed proceeds from the song towards Palestinian humanitarian relief efforts.
Since then, supporting Palestine has become a recurring part of Macklemore&rsquo;s public activism, making his appearance on Sheeran&rsquo;s largely mainstream and apolitical tour an especially notable platform for those views.
Tour Promoter Confirms Macklemore&rsquo;s Removal
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/422f2b5db4bcdfe1f3c1b937b3f3389e1f25057ac71542979e8d73f08045df73" />
Messina Touring Group, the promoter for the US leg of Sheeran&rsquo;s tour, confirmed that Macklemore would no longer perform at the remaining shows.
The promoter said it had been informed by venues that they would not allow concerts to take place with Macklemore on the line-up. It added that keeping him on the tour could have resulted in cancellations affecting hundreds of thousands of fans.
Following discussions with stakeholders, the decision was made to remove Macklemore from the remaining support dates.
Macklemore had been scheduled to support Sheeran at eight of the tour's remaining US shows, including dates in Philadelphia, the Boston area, Atlanta, Charlotte, Indianapolis, Dallas and Tampa.
Macklemore Says Venue Owners Put Pressure On Sheeran
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Following the announcement, Macklemore published a lengthy statement on Instagram explaining his side of the story.
He said Sheeran, whom he described as a close friend of 13 years, told him that Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots and the organisation behind Gillette Stadium, had said Macklemore would not be allowed to perform at the Massachusetts venue.
Macklemore also claimed Kraft had rallied other stadium owners and that Sheeran faced an ultimatum: keep Macklemore on the tour and risk losing access to several venues.
These claims were not presented by the tour promoter as the sole reason for the decision. The promoter instead confirmed that several venues had raised objections to Macklemore remaining on the line-up.
Kraft later defended the decision, saying Macklemore's recent remarks and what he described as a broader history of rhetoric and imagery had been deeply hurtful to the Jewish community. He also said that he supported peace and an end to suffering for Palestinians and Israelis, while arguing that criticism should not ignore Hamas and the suffering of Jewish people.
Macklemore Says He Will Not Stop Speaking Out 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0e4393e11fb48e6284f20de65159b31df534eac58f90e0c5bee874cf57363975" />
Despite losing his place on the tour, Macklemore said he did not view himself, Sheeran or Pink as the victims of the controversy.
Instead, he used his statement to refocus attention on Palestinians affected by the conflict, saying that losing performances, money or opportunities was fundamentally different from the suffering experienced by people in Gaza.
He also said his friendship with Sheeran did not necessarily have to end despite their disagreement, while making clear that he would continue speaking about Palestine.
For Macklemore, the fallout has therefore become another chapter in his long-running advocacy rather than a reason to step back from it.
A Bigger Debate Over Artists And Political Speech
The controversy has once again raised questions over how far musicians should go when using major entertainment platforms to address political issues.
For some, concerts are spaces where artists should be free to speak about causes they believe in. Others argue that major stadium shows are shared entertainment spaces and that audiences should not be unexpectedly drawn into divisive political messaging.
Macklemore&rsquo;s removal also highlights the growing tension between free expression, commercial interests and the politics surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
For now, Ed Sheeran&rsquo;s US Loop Tour will continue without Macklemore, while the rapper has made it clear that the words that triggered the controversy &mdash; &ldquo;Free Palestine&rdquo; &mdash; are not ones he intends to stop saying.
&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.

Macklemore’s “Free Palestine” remarks have sparked a wider debate over political speech, live music and where the line should be drawn.

0fd25861039f680d0111ce8ac13535869e1bacff7fd1acb9e01ac527cef40052

Macklemore Removed From Ed Sheeran’s US Tour After ‘Free Palestine’ Remarks

Malaysian fans are getting their first chance to see rising American singer-songwriter Malcolm Todd live, as the 22-year-old artist brings his Do That Again Tour to Kuala Lumpur this December.
Todd will make his Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur debut at Zepp KL on 9 December 2026, following the release of his latest album, Do That Again. The one-night-only show will give local fans a chance to experience the young artist&rsquo;s blend of indie pop, alternative R&amp;B and personal songwriting in a live setting.
Who Is Malcolm Todd?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d370897631698fd856bb83960cdd7b2ec7a4ca13dd34726128d3997abcd46c1e" />
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Malcolm Todd is a singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer who began releasing music independently during the pandemic.
He started building an online following with self-released projects including Demos Before Prom in 2022 and Shower Shoes in 2023. His early songs, particularly &ldquo;Art House&rdquo; and &ldquo;Roommates&rdquo;, gained traction online and helped establish his audience before he signed with Columbia Records.
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His 2024 mixtape Sweet Boy took that momentum further, featuring songs such as &ldquo;Earrings&rdquo;, before Todd released his self-titled debut album in 2025.
His first major breakout on the Billboard Hot 100 came with &ldquo;Chest Pain (I Love)&rdquo;, which peaked at No. 68 and later earned an RIAA Platinum certification in the United States.
Meanwhile, &ldquo;Earrings&rdquo; has become another major success for Todd. The track has reached the top 40 on multiple international charts and, as of September 2026, sits at No. 20 on Spotify Malaysia, showing that his growing popularity has extended to local listeners.
Todd has also performed at major events and festivals including Lollapalooza, Outside Lands and Camp Flog Gnaw, while making television appearances such as Jimmy Kimmel Live!. His music and live presence have helped establish him as one of the newer names to watch in the indie-pop and R&amp;B space.
&lsquo;Do That Again&rsquo; Continues His Rise
<iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/3IKW2jLFBTUGEIwJha62vD?utm_source=generator&amp;si=3f1610ebea164141" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" loading="lazy" data-testid="embed-iframe"></iframe>&nbsp;
Todd released his second studio album, Do That Again, in June 2026 through Columbia Records.
The 13-track album explores the ups and downs of young adulthood, relationships, heartbreak and vulnerability, continuing Todd&rsquo;s approach of combining personal storytelling with catchy pop songwriting and R&amp;B influences. The album includes tracks such as &ldquo;Breathe&rdquo;, &ldquo;I Saw Your Face&rdquo;, &ldquo;Difficult Love&rdquo;, &ldquo;Lonely Song&rdquo; and the title track.
The album also represents a major step forward following the success of his debut record, giving Todd a new collection of songs to bring to audiences around the world.
Malcolm Todd: Do That Again Tour Comes To Malaysia
The Do That Again Tour comes after Todd&rsquo;s rapidly expanding live career, which has seen him move from performing in smaller venues to playing increasingly large shows.
His Kuala Lumpur stop will be a particularly significant one as it marks his first-ever performance in Malaysia.
Fans can expect the show to centre around songs from Do That Again, while Todd&rsquo;s growing catalogue means there will also be opportunities to hear fan favourites from Sweet Boy and his 2025 self-titled album.
Malcolm Todd Kuala Lumpur Concert Details
The Malaysian show will take place at:
Malcolm Todd: Do That Again Tour 📍 Zepp KL, Kuala Lumpur 📅 9 December 2026, Wednesday
Tickets start from RM268.
There will be several opportunities to purchase tickets ahead of the general sale:
Artist Presale 21 September 2026, 11am&ndash;11:59pm MYT
Fans can register through Malcolm Todd&rsquo;s official website for access to the artist presale.
Live Nation Presale 22 September 2026, 11am&ndash;11:59pm MYT
Live Nation Malaysia members can access the presale after registering for a free membership.
General On-Sale 23 September 2026, from 11am MYT
Tickets will be available through GoLive Asia, which Live Nation Malaysia has identified as the officially authorised ticketing platform.
Stream Malcolm Todd On Spotify
<iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/artist/7eKkW1zo5uzW8kUntiiBvz?utm_source=generator&amp;si=394bbff5e6b8415b" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" loading="lazy" data-testid="embed-iframe"></iframe>
Before catching Malcolm Todd live in Kuala Lumpur, fans can get familiar with his music on Spotify.
His latest album, Do That Again, contains 13 tracks, including &ldquo;Breathe&rdquo;, &ldquo;I Saw Your Face&rdquo; and &ldquo;Do That Again&rdquo;.
Todd has also built a huge global streaming audience, with around 39 million monthly Spotify listeners as of September 2026.
With &ldquo;Earrings&rdquo; currently charting strongly on Spotify Malaysia and Do That Again introducing fans to a newer side of his sound, Malcolm Todd&rsquo;s Kuala Lumpur debut could be a major moment for both the artist and his growing Malaysian fanbase.
For those who have had &ldquo;Earrings&rdquo; or &ldquo;Chest Pain (I Love)&rdquo; on repeat, December could be the perfect time to see the rising pop and R&amp;B star live for the first time in Malaysia.
&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.

Malcolm Todd is coming to KL! Get ready to catch the rising pop star live at Zepp KL this December.

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Malcolm Todd To Make Kuala Lumpur Debut With ‘Do That Again’ Tour This December

The Bandar Utama school stabbing case has reached a major legal turning point, but for the family of 16-year-old Yap Shing Xuen, the pain is far from over.
On 14 October 2025, Yap was fatally stabbed inside the girls&rsquo; toilet of SMK Bandar Utama Damansara (4) in Petaling Jaya during school hours. The accused, who was 14 at the time, was later charged with murder.
Nearly a year after the incident, the Shah Alam High Court has now acquitted the teenager of the murder charge after finding that he was of unsound mind when the offence was committed.
However, the acquittal does not mean he has simply walked free. The court has ordered the now-15-year-old to be detained at Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta in Perak for psychiatric treatment at the pleasure of the Sultan of Selangor.
Teen Acquitted After Insanity Defence Accepted
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e0da2022c148231f191c8643b41399274f92b7ca11815274428289190469c1b1" />
Justice Adlin Abdul Majid ruled that the defence had successfully established the requirements under Section 84 of the Penal Code, which provides for an insanity defence when a person is unable to understand the nature of their actions or that what they were doing was wrong or contrary to law.
Defence lawyer Kitson Foong said the court accepted that the teenager was not of sound mind at the time of the incident and that the prosecution had failed to rebut the psychiatric evidence presented by the defence.
A forensic psychiatrist from Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta, Dr Ian Lloyd Anthony, testified regarding the teenager&rsquo;s mental condition. Reports said the psychiatric evidence established that he was suffering from schizophrenia at the time of the incident.
The court therefore recorded an acquittal on the grounds of insanity rather than a criminal conviction.
Acquittal Does Not Mean He Is Being Released
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e75b83cf173d8cb8d5648e7c5d97bd1b7121c5f7201c41bc96e513fe4c6a64da" />
Despite the verdict, the teenager was not allowed to simply return home.
The Shah Alam High Court ordered him to remain at Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta for psychiatric treatment for a period to be determined under the authority of the Sultan of Selangor. His treatment will include psychiatric care and supervision, with his eventual release depending on assessments of his condition and whether he is considered fit to return to society.
The case was conducted in camera, meaning members of the public and media were not allowed to attend the proceedings, because the accused is a minor. His identity is also protected under Malaysian law.
The distinction between being acquitted and being released is therefore important. The court found that the teenager could not be held criminally responsible for the act because of his mental state at the time, but he remains under psychiatric detention and supervision.
What Happened At The School?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/237ae199fecb0dff31b31b9fe24f52648a896cc1a95ec37c457bd0f2e2096074" />
The incident took place on the morning of 14 October 2025, when Yap was fatally attacked inside the girls&rsquo; toilet at her secondary school in Bandar Utama.
At the time, the accused was 14 while Yap was 16.
The case sparked widespread public attention and grief across Malaysia, while also raising concerns about school safety, adolescent mental health and the influence of online content and social media on young people.
The trial eventually began in August 2026, with proceedings kept private because the accused was a minor. The prosecution called 11 witnesses, while the defence presented two witnesses, including the teenager and the forensic psychiatrist.
Yap&rsquo;s Mother Vows To Continue Seeking Justice
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/aa277e08e590ca61ef4d6d8a08534d192b289e1d7b2cd55c744f4e55e17d4dbd" />
Following the verdict, Yap&rsquo;s mother, Wong Lee Ping, expressed her heartbreak and said she would continue seeking justice for her daughter.
In a statement shared after the decision, Wong remembered Yap as a disciplined, hardworking and caring teenager who still had much of her life ahead of her. She recalled how her daughter would save her pocket money and Chinese New Year ang pow money to buy birthday and Mother&rsquo;s Day gifts, as well as occasionally surprise her mother with cakes.
For Wong, it is these ordinary moments that have become particularly painful after her daughter&rsquo;s death. She said Yap still had many dreams, places she wanted to visit and a future she never had the chance to experience.
Wong has since made clear that the court&rsquo;s verdict has not ended her efforts to seek justice for her daughter.
A Difficult Balance Between Justice And Mental Health
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ea962112096e728154131a9ccd94866fb4ed0e50c6280be2d16e9805edb77962" />
The verdict highlights the complicated intersection between criminal justice, mental health and youth protection.
The court&rsquo;s decision does not establish that the stabbing did not happen. Rather, the central legal question was whether the teenager could be held criminally responsible for his actions given his mental state when the incident occurred.
By accepting the insanity defence, the court concluded that the legal requirements for criminal responsibility were not met. At the same time, the order for psychiatric detention recognises that treatment and public safety remain important considerations.
The case has also renewed questions about how Malaysia identifies and supports young people experiencing serious mental health problems before their conditions reach crisis point.
For Yap&rsquo;s family, however, those broader questions do not erase their loss. A daughter, sister and student is gone, and the future she once had is no longer possible.
As the teenager begins psychiatric treatment under court-ordered detention, Yap&rsquo;s family is left to continue living with the consequences of what happened &mdash; and her mother has made clear that she will continue seeking answers and justice for her daughter.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Following the acquittal, Yap Shing Xuen’s mother says she will continue seeking justice for her daughter.

eeb348c9be37a6e4b6778f0c3aad2b7a5849c1a8aea953f45804ed6e65337154

Bandar Utama School Stabbing: Teen Acquitted Of Murder On Grounds Of Insanity

How many times have you found yourself turning to AI for an answer instead of taking a little more time to study, research or figure something out yourself?
Whether it is asking ChatGPT to explain a difficult topic, summarise an article, write an email or solve a problem, AI has quickly become part of everyday life. What once felt like a futuristic tool is now increasingly being used for work, school, research and even simple daily questions.
And people are using it more than ever.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4f35d5f28b085a1d8cbb14d89e3a7ce72155a3b68f528ce5615d23e07ac68323" />
A 2026 Pew Research Center survey found that 49% of US adults have used AI chatbots, up from 33% in 2024. ChatGPT alone was used by 44% of adults surveyed, while 36% said they interact with AI at least several times a day.
At the same time, AI systems are becoming far more capable. They are no longer simply answering questions or generating text. Newer models can write software, use computers, browse the internet, conduct research and carry out complicated tasks with increasingly little human intervention.
That rapid progress has now prompted one of the industry's leading executives to argue that perhaps AI development needs to slow down.
Anthropic CEO Calls For AI Development To Slow Down
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/837577e81ca87265c854978a276fdd091896682d84a819e5741782616601dc64" />
Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has called on AI companies to deliberately slow the pace at which they improve their most advanced models.
In an essay titled We Must Pace The Frontier, Amodei argued that AI development should continue, but at a speed that gives companies, governments and safety researchers enough time to understand and manage the risks.
&ldquo;We must slow the pace at which we improve the capabilities of AI models,&rdquo; Amodei wrote, while stressing that slowing down does not mean stopping AI development altogether.
His argument comes as AI systems become increasingly capable of acting independently and, in some cases, helping researchers build the next generation of AI systems. This process, known as recursive self-improvement, is one of the reasons Amodei believes the industry needs greater caution.
Amodei's Three-Step Plan
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/44c1a9a60c586c39388b598ca853931638119cef75e3b89ff654d0f1f7127b8a" />
Amodei proposed a three-part approach to slowing the development of frontier AI while allowing the technology to continue progressing.
The first is independent oversight. Anthropic has committed to giving third-party evaluators permanent, employee-level access to its systems so they can assess safety practices, monitor incidents and examine whether models are being developed responsibly.
The second is greater co-operation between AI companies and governments to establish common safety standards, rather than leaving every company to decide its own approach.
The third is international co-operation, including discussions between the US, other countries and China. Amodei argues that global co-ordination will be difficult, but necessary if AI development becomes a race between competing nations.
His proposal has received rare support from major rivals. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said he agreed that the industry needs to &ldquo;pace the frontier&rdquo;, while xAI founder Elon Musk simply responded: &ldquo;Dario is right.&rdquo;
AI Misuse Is Already A Growing Concern
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/28e99e201457618feffa2a9e3e6c527b34a6d526d3df168a507c1486908ed3ec" />
Amodei's warning also comes as increasingly powerful AI systems are being linked to more sophisticated misuse.
Anthropic has reported cases involving the use of AI for cyberattacks, surveillance, fraud and other sensitive activities. The company has also published research showing that frontier models are becoming increasingly capable in areas such as intelligence targeting and conventional weapons development.
Meanwhile, Amodei pointed to an incident involving AI agents from OpenAI that reportedly escaped a testing environment and targeted Hugging Face, a platform widely used by developers.
His concern is not necessarily that today's systems are about to take over the world, but that capabilities are progressing quickly enough that a future system with similar behaviour could cause far greater damage.
GPT-6 Astra Shows How Fast AI Is Advancing
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0906c26dd92e83d5b8f4f655aa51798ae06887698e690e43712df52b2621c242" />
One reason the debate is becoming harder to ignore is the arrival of GPT-6 Astra, OpenAI's latest frontier model.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/5301/openai-unveils-gpt-6-astra-its-most-powerful-ai-model-yet">OpenAI Unveils GPT-6 Astra, Its Most Powerful AI Model Yet</a>
Released in September 2026, Astra is designed for advanced computer use, software engineering, research, cybersecurity and complex multi-step work. OpenAI describes it as its most capable broadly deployed model so far.
Astra is also the first OpenAI model to reach the &ldquo;Critical&rdquo; level for cybersecurity capability under the company's Preparedness Framework. OpenAI says that, with the right tools and access, the model can identify previously unknown vulnerabilities and develop new ways to exploit well-protected systems without someone guiding every step.
That does not mean Astra is independently attacking systems. OpenAI has instead introduced stronger monitoring, isolation and safeguards around its development and deployment because of the model's capabilities.
For the public, however, the development illustrates just how quickly AI has moved beyond being a simple chatbot that provides answers.
The Bigger Question: Are We Moving Too Fast?
This is where the debate becomes particularly relevant to everyday AI users.
AI can be incredibly useful, but the convenience of having a machine explain, write, calculate or research something instantly can also make it tempting to outsource the thinking entirely.
At the industry level, the concern is much larger. If AI systems become more capable faster than safety methods, regulations and human understanding can keep up, developers could end up reacting to problems after they have already happened. Amodei believes slowing down slightly could give the industry valuable time to improve safety without giving up on AI's potential benefits.
For now, there is no sign that the world's major AI companies are stepping away from the race altogether. In fact, the arrival of increasingly powerful models such as GPT-6 Astra suggests the opposite.
The real challenge may therefore not be deciding whether AI should keep advancing, but how fast it should advance &mdash; and whether safety, regulation and human judgement can keep up.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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As AI gets smarter and more capable, one of its biggest names is calling for the industry to slow down.

e28378f33f9b307a4d316a6109ebd8ad2d549f289f0ce327d1e4c524eb5632e6

Anthropic CEO Calls For Slower AI Development As AI Becomes More Powerful

Malaysian pop-rock favourites Insomniacks are getting ready to take their music on the road with the Insomniacks Album Tour 2026, bringing their latest chapter to fans across three cities in Malaysia.
The upcoming tour will stop in Penang, Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, giving fans the chance to experience the band live while celebrating their upcoming album.
More than just a regular concert tour, the shows are designed to bring Insomniacks closer to their fans, with each stop set to feature an exclusive listening experience where fans can get an early taste of songs from the new album before their official release.
Who Are Insomniacks?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/63e3773c7c2fa8aa7db2a26c6e9092beba17c2eb6409585b931f6a0271f26624" />
For anyone who has had &ldquo;Pulang&rdquo; stuck in their head at some point, Insomniacks are one of Malaysia&rsquo;s most recognisable modern pop-rock bands.
Formed in Kuala Lumpur, the band first made their mark with their debut single &ldquo;Selalu&rdquo; before gaining nationwide attention with &ldquo;Pulang&rdquo; in 2018. The song became one of their biggest hits and spent an impressive 146 consecutive weeks on Malaysia&rsquo;s RIM streaming charts.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j4ckkzbbETk" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Their music moves between energetic pop-rock and softer, more emotional tracks, giving them a style that has connected strongly with younger Malaysian listeners.
Songs such as &ldquo;Pulang&rdquo;, &ldquo;Sempurna&rdquo;, &ldquo;Kepala Batu&rdquo;, &ldquo;Here Again&rdquo;, &ldquo;Belum Mulai&rdquo; and &ldquo;Some Days Are Just Better&rdquo; have helped establish the group as one of the country&rsquo;s most prominent younger bands.
They have also built a particularly strong online following. Spotify describes Insomniacks as one of Malaysia&rsquo;s leading contemporary bands, with both &ldquo;Pulang&rdquo; and &ldquo;Sempurna&rdquo; becoming Malaysia&rsquo;s most-streamed tracks in their respective years.
Insomniacks&rsquo; First Major Award Win
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5914afab56ff789fff662389fa6f3ddc4045aa894a9cb145029149bf54faa232" />
The band reached another major career milestone in 2025 when they picked up their first-ever award at the Gempak Most Wanted Awards 2024.
Their collaboration with Indonesian singer Nabila Taqiyyah, &ldquo;Belum Mulai&rdquo;, won the Muzik Video Tergempak category after receiving 59.4% of the vote.
The win was particularly meaningful for the band, who said it marked their first award after almost a decade in the music industry. More recently, Insomniacks also made history by becoming Malaysia&rsquo;s most-streamed domestic artist in 2025, marking the first time the group topped the local ranking.
The band has continued building momentum in 2026 as well, including being announced as the opening act for 5 Seconds of Summer&rsquo;s Malaysian concerts later this year.
Insomniacks Album Tour 2026: Concert Details
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/11c18fe1710bd90ee2f5d5c1fed0c00e302d3697162ac2996a15652c96f44288" />
Now, fans known as Maniacks can catch the band live across three stops during the Insomniacks Album Tour 2026.
The tour schedule is:
Penang 📍 Loft29, Pulau Pinang 📅 Saturday, 19 September 2026
Johor Bahru 📍 Embrace Hall, Johor Bahru 📅 Saturday, 3 October 2026
Kuala Lumpur 📍 Odeon, Kuala Lumpur 📅 Saturday, 31 October 2026
The tour is being held to celebrate Insomniacks&rsquo; new album, with each showcase giving fans an opportunity to hear and experience new material as the band enters its next musical era.
Insomniacks Album Tour 2026 Ticket Prices
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/16cb9b766a978b9fdfe32d53eb017632dca87101714428265b3c3080381bdedf" />
Tickets for the album tour are relatively accessible, with prices differing slightly depending on the venue and ticket category.
Penang
<ul>
<li>General Admission &mdash; RM104</li>
</ul>
Johor Bahru
<ul>
<li>General Admission &mdash; RM104</li>
</ul>
Kuala Lumpur
<ul>
<li>GA Standing &mdash; RM104</li>
<li>Rock Zone &mdash; RM124.80</li>
</ul>
General sales opened at 10am on 1 September 2026, with tickets available through the <a href="https://insomniacksalbumtour2026.ubertickets.asia/">official ticketing platform</a>.
For fans hoping to catch the band up close, the Kuala Lumpur show offers a Rock Zone option, while Penang and Johor Bahru will have General Admission tickets.
Stream Insomniacks On Spotify
<iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/artist/3uSnvyMAFJTm7XkZJFo0xP?utm_source=generator&amp;si=8765ae4c85ba41e4" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" loading="lazy" data-testid="embed-iframe"></iframe>
With the album tour approaching, there is no better time to revisit Insomniacks&rsquo; existing catalogue.
The band currently has a sizeable presence on Spotify, with hundreds of thousands of monthly listeners on the platform. Their catalogue includes fan favourites such as &ldquo;Pulang&rdquo;, &ldquo;Sempurna&rdquo;, &ldquo;Selalu&rdquo;, &ldquo;Kepala Batu&rdquo;, &ldquo;Here Again&rdquo; and &ldquo;Belum Mulai&rdquo;.
Insomniacks&rsquo; growing streaming success has been one of the clearest indicators of their popularity. In 2025, they became Malaysia&rsquo;s most-streamed domestic artist, following years of strong performances on local streaming charts.
So, whether you have been following them since &ldquo;Pulang&rdquo; or only recently discovered their music, the Insomniacks Album Tour 2026 could be a good chance to experience the band&rsquo;s next chapter live.
With three Malaysian cities on the itinerary and new music on the way, Maniacks have plenty to look forward to this September and October.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Maniacks, your time is here!  Insomniacks are taking their new album on the road with stops in Penang, Johor Bahru and KL this September and October.

a610699c030d98b9e8bc56b44e5cd655bc892877d0757552188e26a3171eadf2

Catch Insomniacks Album Tour 2026 Across Penang, Johor And Kuala Lumpur!

A cryptocurrency hack has taken an unusual turn after an attacker stole around 4,000 Bitcoin worth approximately US$320 million from the Liquid Network, only to return most of the funds after the vulnerability behind the incident was patched.
The attacker, whose identity remains unknown, has been described by Liquid Network as a &ldquo;purported white-hat hacker&rdquo; &mdash; an ethical hacker who exploits security vulnerabilities to expose weaknesses rather than simply taking funds for personal gain.
While around 85% of the stolen Bitcoin has now been returned, roughly 598 BTC, worth about US$47 million, remains outstanding. The incident has also forced Liquid Network to pause activity while further security measures are put in place.
What Is Liquid Network?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9946993bb795285f9e9d336b1165664ebe7e79fd0112dc1d062f186edef2856f" />
Liquid Network is a Bitcoin sidechain developed by Blockstream and launched in 2018. It was designed to make Bitcoin transactions faster and more efficient, particularly for cryptocurrency exchanges and financial institutions that need to settle trades quickly.
The main Bitcoin blockchain can take time to confirm transactions, especially when the network is busy. Liquid works differently by allowing users to move Bitcoin into the network and receive an equivalent amount of Liquid Bitcoin (L-BTC), which can then be transferred more quickly.
The network is managed by the Liquid Federation, a group of more than 80 companies including cryptocurrency exchanges, infrastructure providers and other digital-asset businesses. Around 15 federation members operate the network&rsquo;s functionary nodes that play a key role in processing transactions.
How Did The Bitcoin Hack Happen?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e66b57c5de0ce94ec6b4360f9fc2277e91534d4df7557c282c4fba34f4e39ff2" />
The incident was not the result of a stolen password or compromised private key.
Instead, the attacker exploited a software vulnerability involving Elements, the open-source technology underpinning Liquid Network.
According to reports, the vulnerability allowed the attacker to generate around 4,000 L-BTC without first depositing the equivalent amount of real Bitcoin. The attacker then moved the newly created tokens through SideSwap, a legitimate platform used to convert L-BTC back into Bitcoin.
SideSwap processed the transaction as valid because it could not distinguish the artificially created L-BTC from legitimate tokens. The Liquid Federation subsequently released nearly 4,000 real BTC to the attacker.
Liquid said the transaction was authorised through its peg-out system and that the relevant cryptographic key itself had not been compromised. Other digital assets on the Liquid sidechain were not affected.
The Hacker Says They Are A &lsquo;White Hat&rsquo;
The story became even more unusual when the attacker began communicating with Liquid and Blockstream through messages recorded on the Bitcoin blockchain. The hacker reportedly told the network&rsquo;s maintainers to fix the vulnerability first and patch every affected node, promising to return the Bitcoin once the system had been secured.
That led to the attacker being described as a possible white-hat hacker. In cybersecurity, white-hat hackers may deliberately exploit vulnerabilities to demonstrate that a system can be breached, sometimes returning stolen assets after a fix or receiving a bounty for identifying the flaw.
However, the label remains unconfirmed, and the hacker&rsquo;s identity and motivations have not been established.
Around 3,400 Bitcoin Returned
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Update: 3,400 BTC of the roughly 4,000 BTC withdrawn on September 6 has been returned to the <a href="https://x.com/Liquid_BTC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Liquid_BTC</a> Federation wallet. The return followed confirmation from <a href="https://x.com/Blockstream?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Blockstream</a> that the affected bridge nodes have been patched. Approximately 598 BTC remains outstanding, and&hellip;
&mdash; Samson Mow (@Excellion) <a href="https://x.com/Excellion/status/2097060644977877433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The unusual promise was partially fulfilled after Blockstream said the affected bridge nodes had been patched.
Following confirmation of the fix, the attacker returned approximately 3,400 BTC to the Liquid Federation&rsquo;s wallet, leaving about 598.5 BTC, worth roughly US$47 million, still in the attacker&rsquo;s possession. Despite the return of most of the funds, Liquid Network has not immediately resumed normal activity.
The network remains paused while Blockstream and Federation members carry out additional fixes, address the wider security implications and prepare for a safer restart. Users have also been warned not to send Bitcoin to Liquid peg-in addresses until the network confirms that operations have resumed.
One Of The Biggest Crypto Heists Of 2026
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/425ad94fb3bf6902c78749214836873c531d689b69f53a2018cc6c28845eda22" />
The scale of the incident makes it one of the largest cryptocurrency thefts reported this year.
The attack also highlights a wider cybersecurity problem affecting the digital-asset industry. Blockchain security firm PeckShield recorded 50 major crypto hacks in August 2026, with total losses of around US$136.3 million. That was actually lower than July&rsquo;s losses despite the number of attacks increasing by 67%.
Liquid&rsquo;s case is particularly notable because the attackers did not simply gain access to a wallet and transfer existing funds. Instead, the vulnerability allowed fraudulent L-BTC to be generated and ultimately exchanged for genuine Bitcoin held in reserve.
Crypto Security Faces Another Major Test
The Liquid Network incident comes after several other high-profile cryptocurrency security breaches this year.
A separate vulnerability involving Coldcard hardware wallets led to hundreds of Bitcoin being drained from affected devices, while a South Korean government agency was also embarrassed after accidentally revealing a cryptocurrency wallet recovery phrase in a public photograph. The latter incident resulted in digital assets worth millions of dollars being moved from the wallet.
Together, these incidents show that cryptocurrency security risks can come from many different points &mdash; including software vulnerabilities, transaction infrastructure and even basic operational mistakes.
For Liquid Network, the immediate priority is now recovering the remaining funds and ensuring that the vulnerability cannot be exploited again.
What started as a US$320 million Bitcoin heist has therefore become one of the stranger crypto security stories of 2026: an attacker drained almost the entire reserve, demanded that the vulnerability be fixed, and then returned most of the stolen Bitcoin.
The twist may sound almost too convenient, but the remaining US$47 million serves as a reminder that, white hat or not, the incident is far from completely resolved.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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White hat or not, hacking into systems and taking funds isn’t something to copy. Always protect, report vulnerabilities and stay on the right side of the law.

301378b26d9450705ec699cc45a860d4b026803df6283d174e90233ba16f1d1d

Hacker Steals Around US$320 Million In Bitcoin Then Returns Most Of It

Malaysians who rely heavily on their vehicles have some good news as the government has restored the monthly BUDI95 subsidised RON95 quota to 300 litres, effective 1 September 2026.
The increase reverses the temporary reduction from 300 litres to 200 litres introduced in April. At the same time, eligible private diesel-powered pick-up and jeep owners can now receive up to 400 litres of subsidised diesel per month.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the changes during his National Day address on 30 August, saying the government was acting ahead of Budget 2027 because cost-of-living pressures could not wait until October. The Finance Ministry subsequently confirmed that the revised quotas would be implemented automatically for eligible existing recipients.
BUDI95 Quota Returns To 300 Litres
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1c0a538b35a9c667136fb2958d7b5d68221ef42fc905ef0df110ceeac0f0d608" />
Under BUDI MADANI RON95 (BUDI95), eligible Malaysians can purchase subsidised RON95 petrol at RM1.99 per litre.
From 1 September, the basic monthly eligibility limit has increased from 200 litres to 300 litres, essentially restoring the quota that was in place when BUDI95 was first introduced in September 2025.
The government said around 16 million Malaysians benefit from subsidised RON95 under the programme. The adjustment is automatic for existing eligible BUDI95 recipients, meaning they do not need to submit a new application simply because the quota has increased.
The original reduction to 200 litres took effect on 1 April 2026 as the government responded to higher global crude oil prices and increased subsidy costs.
Why Was The Quota Reduced In The First Place?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9e79cc3c7237a8dbc6d29e0fa729df2fc45eea9b03966e9e578af01868977359" />
The 200-litre limit was introduced as a temporary measure amid significant pressure on the government's fuel subsidy bill.
At the time, the government said the adjustment was necessary as international oil prices rose sharply, increasing the cost of maintaining subsidised fuel. However, the lower quota also prompted complaints from some motorists, particularly those who travel long distances for work, family commitments or business.
With the latest adjustment, the government says it has taken into account the needs of Malaysians who rely heavily on their vehicles, including those travelling long distances and small traders who depend on vehicles for their livelihoods.
The Finance Ministry also said the restoration was made possible by better fuel supply management, stronger enforcement, improved economic performance and the government's current financial capacity.
BUDI Diesel Quota Can Go Up To 400 Litres
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/886a2038177948d8613242bea037cb47f3a320f1e8a91f47fb76d2fc1d4f229f" />
There is also an increase for eligible diesel vehicle owners.
The basic BUDI Diesel monthly entitlement has been restored to 300 litres, with subsidised diesel remaining at RM2.10 per litre.
Eligible owners of private diesel-powered pick-up trucks and jeeps can apply for an additional 100 litres, bringing their total monthly entitlement to up to 400 litres.
More than half a million eligible diesel vehicle owners can apply for the additional allocation.
Those who were already approved for the extra 100 litres do not need to apply again, as their entitlement will be automatically adjusted to 400 litres from 1 September. Those who have not applied can submit their application through the BUDI MADANI portal.
No Need To Reapply For The Basic Increase
For existing BUDI95 and BUDI Diesel recipients, the return to the higher basic quota is automatic, subject to their existing eligibility.
This means eligible BUDI95 users will receive the revised 300-litre monthly limit, while eligible BUDI Diesel recipients will receive the applicable revised allocation without having to restart the application process.
For pick-up and jeep owners seeking the additional 100 litres under BUDI Diesel, a separate application is still required unless they have already received approval previously.
Government Says Subsidies Must Still Be Protected From Misuse
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fcb9910f3e2295225b40eb53ad336fa9cd144b1d06d15d597ccdc14e2ad578fc" />
Despite increasing the quotas, the government said it would continue strengthening measures to prevent subsidy leakage, smuggling and misuse.
BUDI95 was originally designed as a targeted fuel subsidy system, with eligibility tied to Malaysian citizenship and driving licence information.
When the programme was launched, the government said the 300-litre ceiling was already sufficient for the overwhelming majority of private motorists, based on national vehicle usage data.
The latest restoration therefore does not represent a return to an unrestricted blanket petrol subsidy.
What Malaysians Need To Know
For eligible motorists, the changes from 1 September 2026 are straightforward:
BUDI95: Up to 300 litres of subsidised RON95 per month at RM1.99 per litre.
BUDI Diesel: Up to 300 litres per month at RM2.10 per litre for eligible recipients.
Private diesel pick-up and jeep owners: Up to 400 litres per month with the additional 100-litre allocation, subject to eligibility and application requirements.
Anwar has positioned the move as an immediate measure to help ease cost-of-living pressures before Budget 2027, which is due to be tabled in October.
For millions of Malaysians, the biggest takeaway is simple: the 200-litre BUDI95 limit is gone, and the monthly subsidised petrol quota is back to 300 litres from 1 September.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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BUDI95 and BUDI Diesel quotas are back up from September, giving eligible Malaysians higher monthly fuel limits.

0ef6115467d6dda8329a9a784d59c490cbc358aa1f6cf8bd70b1345c79d476c7

BUDI95 Quota Restored To 300 Litres, BUDI Diesel Raised To 400 Litres From September

Malaysia is exploring ways to reform its tax system by studying whether selected Goods and Services Tax (GST) mechanisms could be incorporated into the existing Sales and Services Tax (SST).
Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the aim is to create a more progressive and efficient tax system, but stressed that the government is not looking to simply reinstate the previous 6% GST.
The Finance Ministry has been instructed to study the proposal before presenting its findings to the Cabinet.
Hybrid GST-SST Plan Still In Early Stages
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d11ada6b71d69ab81631de111886796bf46aa72ea8495d6ba75a3418144d95b2" />
Government spokesman Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan has been given time to prepare a report on the proposed model.
The study will consider Malaysia's experience with both GST and SST, including weaknesses in the current system and problems encountered during the previous GST era.
Fahmi said there is currently no confirmed timeline for the study, including whether any changes could be included in Budget 2027.
For now, the move does not represent a return of GST. The government is only studying whether certain GST features could improve the existing SST framework.
What Could A Hybrid GST-SST System Include?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/72dd1d5985ea19cda8e9901436645f1e7e01d3457b74b2a9c15a7acc6be9a94b" />
Anwar has stressed that SST would remain the foundation of Malaysia's tax system.
One option highlighted by tax experts is an Input Tax Credit (ITC) mechanism, which could allow eligible businesses to recover certain taxes paid on their inputs.
Under the current SST system, businesses can sometimes face tax cascading, where taxes become embedded in the cost of goods and services and are effectively taxed again further along the supply chain.
A targeted ITC system could reduce this problem without requiring Malaysia to return to the previous GST model.
Experts have also suggested greater use of digital tax administration and invoice-based reporting to strengthen tax collection and reduce revenue leakages.
Why Not Simply Bring Back GST?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/574e8622aa9ad883597ad55c57c83e580748c38081cf500d606b8a8f00c8b77e" />
Anwar has acknowledged that GST is generally considered an efficient and transparent method of tax collection, but remains concerned about its broad-based nature.
He has said GST would place a wider tax burden on Malaysians, including those already facing cost-of-living pressures.
&ldquo;GST is a broad-based tax that taxes everyone. I do not agree with that.&rdquo;
The government is therefore considering whether selected GST mechanisms can be introduced without creating another broad-based consumption tax.
Malaysia&rsquo;s Previous GST Experience
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4725334439a6321198ecaa67beca1d3fff2177c634ea6b2b2d758a8a1efe440f" />
Malaysia introduced GST in April 2015 at a rate of 6%.
The multi-stage consumption tax faced widespread public criticism, particularly over concerns about its impact on living costs. Businesses also raised concerns over delayed tax refunds, which could affect cash flow.
GST was subsequently suspended and zero-rated in June 2018 before being abolished and replaced by SST in September 2018.
These experiences are expected to form part of the Finance Ministry's assessment as it considers any new tax structure.
Businesses Warn Against Higher Compliance Costs
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/893b81326aee95189298d472f860fcfb91738ef1383321960b33c515e904cd60" />
While tax experts have highlighted the potential benefits of an ITC mechanism, business groups have urged the government to keep any new system simple.
KPMG Malaysia head of tax Soh Lian Seng said a targeted credit mechanism could reduce inefficiencies caused by tax cascading, while digital reporting could improve administration.
However, SME Association of Malaysia president Chin Chee Seong warned that a complicated system could increase business costs, which may ultimately be passed on to consumers.
SAMENTA president Datuk William Ng similarly pointed to delayed ITC refunds during the previous GST era as a major concern.
He said businesses had already invested in systems for GST, SST and e-invoicing, and should not be forced to absorb another round of software, training and compliance costs.
What Could The New Model Look Like?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/94c6fcd5b80a69be43550f9fd686c4c4fcd2b8b7d9a015cc3a6f024b3bfada50" />
Experts have suggested several possible approaches.
One option would be to have GST as a broader consumption tax while retaining SST or other targeted taxes for selected goods and services.
Another could involve a GST-style system with zero-rated or exempt sectors, alongside additional taxes on selected products such as luxury goods, tobacco and other items. Tax expert Harvindar Singh said Malaysia could also study international examples such as India and Canada, where broader consumption taxes operate alongside more targeted taxation.
However, he warned that simply placing GST on top of the existing SST could create unnecessary complexity and further tax-on-tax effects.
Concerns Over Cost Of Living
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6440fe352f04ab2863e50260d8ea8149e87ef661fa5061dec9f3023eefceb8fe" />
Beyond revenue collection, the biggest concern is how any tax reform would affect ordinary Malaysians.
Critics have called for the government to provide clear details on tax rates, which goods and services would be affected, registration thresholds and how input tax credits would work.
There have also been calls for a proper impact study and assessment of compliance costs before any major changes are introduced.
The concern is that higher costs for businesses could eventually be passed on to consumers through higher prices.
Is Malaysia Bringing Back GST?
Not at this stage.
The government has not announced plans to restore the previous 6% GST.
Instead, the Finance Ministry is studying whether selected GST features can be incorporated into the current SST system to make tax collection more efficient while limiting the impact on households.
The eventual outcome could be a modified SST system, a hybrid model or no major change at all.
With Budget 2027 approaching, Malaysia's proposed tax reform is likely to remain closely watched as the government weighs its need for stronger revenue against the pressure of rising living costs.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Anwar Ibrahim says the government wants to build a more efficient tax system without bringing back the previous 6% GST.

91052f4d81a941c20cd03f1128216d05d8478a8a34ce91001dfe4621fb5f56f8

Malaysia Is Exploring A Hybrid GST-SST Tax System: Here’s What It Could Mean

TikTok could be taking its financial services push a step further by allowing users to send money directly through direct messages, potentially turning private chats into another way to make payments.
References to the feature were reportedly discovered in the code of TikTok&rsquo;s US iPhone app. However, TikTok has stressed that the feature is not currently being tested in any market, meaning it remains an early-stage project and may never be released.
How Would TikTok Payments Through DMs Work?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ef1767c296d36836de31ecfde0936a686e0925a0f670d847742ca041e69a06f7" />
According to reports, the proposed feature would allow users to send payments directly inside an existing TikTok conversation.
The recipient could reportedly &ldquo;tap to accept&rdquo; the incoming payment before a set expiry date, while the sender would receive updates on the transaction through push notifications or their TikTok inbox. There also appear to be references to users being able to attach a message or note to a payment, similar to the way users can add captions to transactions on services such as Venmo.
The idea would make sending money feel much like sending a normal TikTok message, potentially removing the need to switch to a separate banking or payment application. For example, users could potentially send money to friends after discussing a purchase, pay someone they met through the platform or transfer money to a creator &mdash; all without leaving TikTok.
TikTok Pay Could Power The Feature
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b4f1eb2e394e4c8354c51f226e3d4b8d89f80a2c8404ddd5281aab8e6de31ce8" />
The reported peer-to-peer payment system could be powered by TikTok Pay, ByteDance&rsquo;s existing payment service.
TikTok Pay is currently available in Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, where it is used for transactions through TikTok Shop. A peer-to-peer payment feature would represent a significant expansion of TikTok Pay, moving it beyond payments to merchants and towards direct transfers between individual users.
ByteDance has already explored similar ideas in China. Its Chinese platform, Douyin, has supported peer-to-peer payments through Douyin Pay, allowing users to make purchases, pay during livestream shopping and send tips.
TikTok Is Moving Further Into Financial Services
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b7cf42b36c5f639b21ec516dee5766cb20f4434451b3c1c0333330bd900f5f8f" />
The reported feature fits into TikTok parent company ByteDance&rsquo;s wider push into financial technology and social commerce.
TikTok is no longer simply a platform for short-form videos. Users can already shop through TikTok Shop, purchase digital coins, send virtual gifts to creators and interact with businesses directly through the app. A direct payment system could allow TikTok to keep even more of those transactions within its own ecosystem.
According to Sensor Tower data cited in reports, consumers worldwide have spent more than US$2.9 billion (around RM12.3 billion) on TikTok so far this year. The platform has also reportedly remained the world's leading app for in-app purchase revenue since 2022.
With such a large amount of spending already taking place on TikTok, adding peer-to-peer payments could provide another way for the company to connect its social, entertainment and commerce services.
Could TikTok Challenge Venmo And Other Payment Apps?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/37b6c11608191448f0b7bd8ec5f443d2aa2694ca76e6b28dd5fdfa0c1c1a5b96" />
A built-in payment feature could put TikTok into more direct competition with established services such as Venmo and Zelle in the US.
However, TikTok would have one major advantage: it already has a huge audience. Instead of convincing users to download another financial app, TikTok could place payment functionality directly into an application they already use to communicate, watch content and shop.
This could be particularly useful for creators and sellers. Users already share payment details such as Venmo or Cash App usernames through TikTok profiles, so an integrated system could potentially eliminate the need to move transactions elsewhere.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1727d7a4a4cd4635abb9c250e3aafc82d55192e39af891dd9eec446a4b87a48e" />
Other social platforms are heading in a similar direction. X has been expanding its X Money service, while Facebook Messenger has offered peer-to-peer payments in the US for years.
The bigger trend appears to be social media companies attempting to evolve into &ldquo;everything apps&rdquo;, where users can communicate, shop and manage financial transactions in one place.
But There Are Privacy And Scam Concerns
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/898c09abb7bec5e58afbefee7c2eec752ed63c36d4d61b493a76f2df9e5625c5" />
Making payments as easy as sending a message could certainly be convenient, but it could also create new challenges.
A payment request appearing inside a familiar conversation could potentially make scams and fraudulent transactions harder for users to spot. Criminals could use hacked accounts, fake profiles or convincing messages to pressure people into sending money.
There are also concerns about younger users. TikTok has a huge teenage and young adult audience, and making payments almost frictionless could potentially encourage impulsive spending or make financial scams easier to execute.
TikTok's existing financial tools have also faced legal scrutiny in the US, with some lawsuits involving allegations related to financial and child exploitation, money transmission laws and money laundering. These cases concern existing features and should not be treated as evidence of problems with a peer-to-peer payment system that does not yet exist.
No Launch Date Has Been Confirmed
For now, TikTok's reported peer-to-peer payment feature should be viewed as a development project rather than an upcoming confirmed feature.
The discovery of code shows that ByteDance is exploring the possibility, but TikTok has said it is not currently being tested in any market.
There are also no confirmed details on potential transaction limits, fees, eligibility requirements, banking partners or whether the feature would launch in Malaysia, the US or other markets.
Still, the idea highlights how TikTok is evolving beyond social media and into commerce and financial services.
For Malaysian users, the more immediate takeaway is that TikTok Pay already exists locally through TikTok Shop. Whether Malaysians will eventually be able to send money to friends simply by opening a TikTok DM, however, remains to be seen.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Your TikTok DMs could become payment channels — but at what privacy cost? 

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TikTok Could Soon Let Users Send Money Through Peer-To-Peer Payments In DMs

Shopee users in Malaysia now have another way to pay for their online purchases, with Touch &rsquo;n Go eWallet (TNG eWallet) now supported through DuitNow QR.
The addition fulfils a long-standing request from Malaysian shoppers who have wanted to use their TNG eWallet balance directly when checking out on Shopee. However, there is a catch &mdash; TNG eWallet is not available as a direct payment option. Instead, shoppers will need to select DuitNow QR at checkout and complete the payment through the TNG eWallet app.
How To Pay For Shopee Purchases With TNG eWallet
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/69ab34d0fe1b44810e1db012905bca1dcc08f64ec364037094df5f225ef65b16" />
The process is relatively straightforward.
When checking out on Shopee, users can select DuitNow QR as their preferred payment method. Shopee will then generate a QR code for the transaction.
From there, shoppers have two options. They can either save or take a screenshot of the QR code and open it through the TNG eWallet app, or use the app's Universal Scan feature to scan the code directly.
Once scanned, TNG eWallet will display the total payment amount along with Shopee Marketplace as the merchant. Users can then review the details and confirm the transaction to complete their purchase.
While it is not quite the seamless integration some users may have expected, the DuitNow QR option effectively allows TNG eWallet users to pay for Shopee purchases without having to rely on a card or online banking.
Interestingly, Shopee's payment information still lists Touch &rsquo;n Go and Boost as unsupported e-wallet payment methods, meaning DuitNow QR currently serves as the workaround for TNG eWallet users.
TNG eWallet Users Can Also Earn Cashback
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e79b7d22c9b3fccae6057948943f2a4d6ca87eee87b08de5417e8c8f95852006" />
The new payment option comes with another potential perk for shoppers.
Eligible users can earn 1% cashback on Shopee purchases through TNG eWallet's Shop &amp; Earn programme, with cashback capped at RM6.67 per order.
To qualify, shoppers need to enter Shopee through the Shop &amp; Earn page in the TNG eWallet app before making their purchase. Simply paying with TNG eWallet through DuitNow QR does not necessarily guarantee cashback if the required Shop &amp; Earn process is not followed.
Cashback is typically tracked within two days and confirmed within 14 days.
However, there are several exclusions shoppers should be aware of.
Which Shopee Purchases Are Not Eligible For Cashback?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/90fd3ce7bd57c0df23fdb4f037439326a7294dc739fbda6daa57ae92aa4a4124" />
According to TNG Digital, cashback does not apply to certain types of purchases and transactions.
These include:
<ul>
<li>Digital goods</li>
<li>Telco and utility payments</li>
<li>Vouchers</li>
<li>Travel bookings</li>
<li>Donations</li>
<li>Cinema and event purchases</li>
<li>Local services</li>
<li>Investments</li>
<li>ShopeePay Near Me transactions</li>
</ul>
Shopee LIVE products and streaming-priced items are also excluded, while purchases made using promo codes or vouchers that are not featured on the Shop &amp; Earn platform may not qualify.
Additional charges such as fees, taxes, service charges, shipping and delivery costs are also excluded from the cashback calculation.
As such, shoppers should check the Shop &amp; Earn terms before making a purchase if they are specifically shopping to earn cashback.
What Other Payment Methods Does Shopee Malaysia Support?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5a2dccf8f6ae0dd11ec7ba723060651f4fa6fcd777d7d5761103a1f3afcf6201" />
The addition of DuitNow QR gives Shopee users another payment option alongside its existing methods.
Shopee Malaysia currently supports payment methods including SPay, credit and debit cards, online banking, Google Pay, Apple Pay, cash-on-delivery (COD) and cash payments at selected physical payment locations.
For online banking, shoppers can choose from numerous participating banks, including Maybank, CIMB, RHB, Public Bank, Hong Leong Bank, HSBC, Bank Islam, Bank Rakyat, OCBC and UOB, among others.
Eligible shoppers can also access instalment plans through selected credit cards, while Shopee's SPayLater service provides a buy-now-pay-later option for users who meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
A Step Towards More Flexible Digital Payments
Although TNG eWallet has not been added as a standalone payment option on Shopee, its integration through DuitNow QR gives Malaysian shoppers more flexibility at checkout.
It also highlights how DuitNow QR is increasingly becoming a bridge between different digital payment platforms, allowing users to make payments across participating merchants and services without being tied to a single e-wallet ecosystem.
For regular Shopee shoppers who already keep money in their TNG eWallet, the new option offers another convenient way to pay &mdash; and potentially earn a little cashback along the way.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Malaysians can finally use their TNG eWallet on Shopee — specifically through DuitNow QR at checkout.