Asha Ali

81d88d308d6ba5d175f2c608d93f8382ec45d84d5288797629eef2cb236efb68

Social

china

controversy

lifestylee

art project

weibo

socialite

As part of an art project, Zou reportedly spent 21 days. eating free cuisine, staying at luxury hotels, utilising VIP lounges and facilities, and wearing expensive clothes and jewellery without spending a dollar, according to the South China Morning Post.
The 23-year-old student documented the entire encounter and screened the video in June at Beijing's Central Academy of Fine Arts
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rWwtBl7zL8c" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
In September, Zou came to Weibo to upload a few clips demonstrating how she tried on beautiful outfits, sampled free snacks in malls and restaurants, and slept in airport lounges and hotel lobbies. She also utilised Ikea as an office and tried on jade bracelets that were being offered at auctions.
She even &nbsp;dressed up in expensive-looking clothes, wore a false ring, and carried a fake Herm&egrave;s bag to create a convincing "socialite" impression.
Wow she was deffo living the dream..
According to Zou, she "pretended to be one of these people" in order to learn how to exist on society's "abundant material."
She noted in her piece, "It's interesting how these materials are distributed." "They're frequently given to persons who appear to have significant fortune in life."
However, obviously there&rsquo;s going be a controversy because as much as i hate to admit this.. Whether you do good or bad people are always gonna talk &amp; find something to hate.&nbsp;
There was a lot of mixed feedback about it, it was split on their opinion of Zous project with some accusing her of taking advantage of establishment
Big yikes..
A local publication which saw the positive message of the project wrote that&nbsp;&ldquo;We can say with confidence that she lived 21 days in the metropolis freely, relying on the tolerance and kindness of our commercial society.&rdquo;
Other write-ups however, was accusing Zou of being a &ldquo;fake socialite&rdquo; who exploited policies to live a &ldquo;highly extravagant lifestyle.&rdquo;
In response to the negative reactions, Zou said she dressed up to look the part for the project which, she explained, is not about wealth inequality or a socialite&rsquo;s lifestyle.
I guess its time for me to look for upcoming art projects..who knows what fun crazy adventure things i will get myself into
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross references for context.
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She did not spend a single cent for three weeks.

78a2343c419e54aa49909e9aa0ea77df5bfab83eb70f6b31b33fd9963bb2545e

Chinese Student Lives In Luxury By Posing As A Wealthy 'Socialite'

Malaysia&rsquo;s roads are no strangers to congestion &mdash; a persistent daily nuisance for millions of commuters. During peak hours, traffic in and around urban areas such as Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, and Subang Jaya can grind to a halt, with journey times ballooning far beyond what would be considered acceptable in most major cities. As a result, many Malaysians have turned to public transportation in search of a more efficient, stress-free alternative.
Services such as the MRT, LRT, and KTM Komuter lines are positioned as affordable and practical ways to beat traffic, particularly for daily commuters. However, frequent breakdowns, delays, technical issues, and infrastructure weaknesses have continued to undermine public confidence in these services. For KTM Komuter in particular, its reputation has taken a repeated beating, with passengers often reporting unreliable schedules, poor communication, and inadequate contingency planning.
Three-Hour Delay Between Bangi and Serdang: A TikTok Video Goes Viral
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@horajunie/video/7507131892366462226" data-video-id="7507131892366462226">
<section><a title="@horajunie" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@horajunie?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@horajunie</a> a baddie dont deserve this typa service KTMB <a title="fyp" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#fyp</a> <a title="ktmb" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/ktmb?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#ktmb</a> <a title="baddie" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/baddie?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#baddie</a> <a title="stecu" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/stecu?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#stecu</a> <a title="♬ Dilanjaniyar - Chanclipse" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Dilanjaniyar-7495735523894774534?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ Dilanjaniyar - Chanclipse</a></section>
</blockquote>
A recent incident involving a KTMB Komuter train on the Pulau Sebang&ndash;Batu Caves route has once again drawn widespread criticism. The issue gained viral attention after a user on TikTok, @horajunie, shared her personal experience aboard a train that came to a sudden halt between Bangi and Serdang stations.
According to her, the train was stranded on the tracks for three hours due to a fallen tree that caused a technical fault, compounded by a complete loss of electricity on board. The power outage rendered onboard systems non-functional, plunging carriages into darkness and cutting off ventilation and announcements.
There was reportedly no immediate update from staff regarding the cause of the delay or how long passengers would be stuck. For three hours, hundreds of passengers sat helplessly in sweltering heat, unsure of their next steps. The lack of communication and preparedness frustrated many, especially as conditions inside the train deteriorated.
Unplanned Evacuation: &ldquo;We Had to Walk Through the Bushes&rdquo;
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/20ca46fd72998fffeee8332bc6945c197f33bb9777ef967bbfeeb79a6fd6d003" />
Eventually, KTMB staff instructed passengers to disembark the train and make their way to a nearby road on foot &mdash; through overgrown terrain that was clearly not designed for pedestrian access. In the TikTok video, passengers can be seen cautiously descending from the train and navigating a steep, uneven embankment while carrying bags and luggage.
&ldquo;It felt like jungle trekking,&rdquo; the user remarked, attempting to inject humour into the situation. &ldquo;I didn&rsquo;t know the guy in front was so brave &mdash; he was carrying luggage and still managed to balance himself with a backpack.&rdquo;
Despite her lighthearted tone, she expressed concern for elderly passengers who struggled with the impromptu descent. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s really sad, especially for the older folks. There was a shop area in front of us, but we still had to go down a very steep and slippery path to get there,&rdquo; she added.
Others who commented on the video highlighted the risks involved &mdash; such as the possibility of injuries, lack of safety railings, and the complete absence of any emergency evacuation procedure.
Netizens React: Humour, Frustration, and Resignation
Unsurprisingly, the post triggered a wave of reactions online. Some users responded with sarcasm and humour, reflecting the public&rsquo;s growing sense of exasperation with KTMB&rsquo;s services.
&ldquo;Since when did KTMB start offering jungle survival camps?&rdquo; one user quipped, while another wrote, &ldquo;Next time, don&rsquo;t forget to bring hiking boots when boarding KTM.&rdquo;
Yet others took a more serious tone, asking whether passengers would receive any form of compensation for the lengthy delay and the hazardous disembarkation. The TikTok user confirmed that no reimbursement or official response was provided to passengers at the time of writing.
Many commenters also shared similar past experiences on KTMB trains, revealing that service disruptions are not uncommon. One user lamented: &ldquo;KTMB has been unreliable for decades. From my student days to now, as a working adult, nothing has changed.&rdquo;
Another added, &ldquo;I used to live in Rawang. If there were MRT or LRT services there, I&rsquo;d never use KTM again. But we don&rsquo;t have a choice &mdash; and that&rsquo;s the sad part.&rdquo;
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9c06d03b7050e05c26e65d6b79349842bf22b55f5f0526c022b3fce5992b708f" />
Not the First Time: A History of Train Disruptions and Power Failures
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Updated - still no moving <a href="https://t.co/1ByoWlxndQ">pic.twitter.com/1ByoWlxndQ</a>
&mdash; syab (@sybwho) <a href="https://twitter.com/sybwho/status/1713877131355472265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2023</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
but I believe that KTM could be doing more to address these issues. I urge you to look into this matter and take steps to improve the reliability and comfort of the KTM train service. Thank you for your time and consideration. Here some pictures for today issues. <a href="https://t.co/0Bquqxo0TU">pic.twitter.com/0Bquqxo0TU</a>
&mdash; syab (@sybwho) <a href="https://twitter.com/sybwho/status/1713875382074740773?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
This was not an isolated incident. In fact, complaints about KTMB delays due to power outages or technical problems are alarmingly frequent. A similar case was reported earlier by a X (formerly known as Twitter) user, who shared photos of passengers waiting outside a stalled train at Batang Benar station. That delay reportedly lasted over an hour.
The user claimed this was a regular occurrence and that no meaningful improvements had been observed in recent years. &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve been commuting on KTM for over three years, and every few weeks there&rsquo;s some sort of delay or technical fault. Sometimes, trains just stop between stations for 20&ndash;30 minutes without any explanation.&rdquo;
Passengers in that case were also left to wait without guidance or support, fuelling perceptions that KTMB lacks the infrastructure and crisis management capability to handle such situations efficiently.
Calls for Structural Reforms and Transparent Communication
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0bca11cb9d8dcc7f3abb103eed4008bb30a999d5d1bec5fecd34f3b5743dff19" />
With Malaysia&rsquo;s public transport system expected to play a central role in reducing traffic congestion, carbon emissions, and urban sprawl, these repeated failures have prompted calls for serious reform. Many argue that the KTM Komuter network is long overdue for a comprehensive upgrade &mdash; not just in terms of trains and tracks, but also in staff training, emergency planning, and communication protocols.
&ldquo;People will never shift away from cars if they can&rsquo;t trust the train system to get them to work on time,&rdquo; one netizen commented.
Transport advocacy groups have also weighed in, calling on the government to hold KTMB accountable for service standards and passenger welfare. Suggestions have ranged from implementing service-level agreements (SLAs) with financial penalties for delays, to establishing independent oversight for public complaints and response management.
A System in Need of Direction
For everyday commuters, public transport is not a luxury &mdash; it&rsquo;s a necessity. The KTM Komuter line serves thousands of Malaysians who rely on it daily for work, school, and appointments. When delays occur without warning, and passengers are forced to evacuate in unsafe conditions, the consequences go beyond mere inconvenience. Trust erodes, productivity suffers, and the broader public transport agenda is set back.
While @horajunie&rsquo;s video managed to find humour in an otherwise uncomfortable situation, the underlying issue is no laughing matter. Until concrete steps are taken to modernise the KTMB system and ensure safe, reliable service, many will continue to feel that taking the train is a gamble &mdash; one that too often ends with them stranded in the bushes.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Passengers say the power supply was cut after a fallen tree obstructed the tracks, leaving them stranded for hours.

350503a5403f778d61d58460b4a9a77204279004a2f157010feb176c23bce4ad

KTMB Train Delay Sparks Outrage After Passengers Forced To Disembark And ‘Jungle Trek’

Singapore has been ranked the <a href="https://happy-city-index.com/">third happiest city in the world</a> for 2025, following Copenhagen and Zurich, according to the latest Happy City Index by the London-based Institute for the Quality of Life. The annual study evaluates 250 cities across 82 indicators covering six themes: Citizens, Governance, Environment, Economy, Health, and Mobility.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1a1a9f86a02252095bf1b3ec8297965aa163f01183e352286f538fc9c20e1a55" />
Praised as a &ldquo;city-state unlike any other,&rdquo; the index commended Singapore for its economic strength, effective governance, and urban innovation. With a score of 979 points, Singapore was identified as one of the institute&rsquo;s so-called &ldquo;Gold Cities&rdquo; &mdash; a label given to urban centres offering consistently high standards of living.
Education and innovation were named as key pillars of the city&rsquo;s success, with local universities ranked among the top 50 globally and a remarkable 7.37 patents granted per 10,000 residents, highlighting a &ldquo;steady pipeline&rdquo; of new ideas. Singapore also enjoys high digital literacy, with 55 per cent of citizens possessing digital skills and over 63 per cent fluent in a foreign language &mdash; a reflection of its global connectivity.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5922aedd37c841510f2dfeacda8e192a849d48ebf366a5890d88184226a48cc7" />
From a governance standpoint, the city scored highly thanks to its 95.81 per cent voter turnout, its expansive open data ecosystem featuring over 8,000 datasets, and a robust e-governance framework offering digital access to services ranging from online payments to scheduling public appointments.
Singapore&rsquo;s healthcare system also drew praise. The city offers universal medical insurance, a doctor-to-population ratio of 2.8 per 1,000, and an average life expectancy of 83 years. Mental health services are reportedly expanding, with 15 per cent of adults receiving coordinated care.
Mobility and public safety also contributed to Singapore&rsquo;s high standing. All public transport vehicles are accessible to individuals with disabilities, while traffic-related fatalities remain exceptionally low at 0.24 per 10,000 residents. Crime rates are minimal, with only 3.31 cases of public violence per 1,000 residents reported.
Environmentally, the country was noted for having 100 per cent sewage treatment coverage and placing sustainability at the centre of urban planning. However, the index did point out challenges in waste management, despite recent improvements in recycling.
<img src="https://i0.wp.com/media4.giphy.com/media/xTiQyBOIQe5cgiyUPS/giphy.gif?w=780&amp;ssl=1" alt="VIDEO: Using A Ski To Jimmy Car Door Lock - Unofficial Networks" />
TikToker Fires Back: &ldquo;Stress Until You Want to Cry&rdquo;
Despite the glowing report, not every Singaporean is convinced, especially one outspoken TikToker whose fiery video has gone viral across social media platforms. In a scathing monologue, the content creator sarcastically questioned the credibility of the rankings, exclaiming,
&ldquo;Singapore is ranked third happiest city in the world &mdash; knina*, who vote one?! You ask any Singaporean on the street, we all got the same emotion: stress, tired until you want to cry. You call this happy?&rdquo;
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@benwoahh/video/7505432372230507794" data-video-id="7505432372230507794">
<section><a title="@benwoahh" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@benwoahh?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@benwoahh</a> Knn Singapore is the third happiest country in the world&hellip;my ka chng la&hellip; <a title="benwhoah" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/benwhoah?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#benwhoah</a> <a title="tiktoksg" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/tiktoksg?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#tiktoksg</a> <a title="fyp" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#fyp</a> <a title="♬ original sound - Benwhoah 2.0" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-Benwhoah-20-7505432414530489089?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ original sound - Benwhoah 2.0</a></section>
</blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>
&nbsp;
His vivid rant highlighted the pressures of everyday life in Singapore, including crowded MRT commutes, relentless work culture, and the struggle to keep up with the rising cost of living.
&ldquo;Everyday my blood pressure break national record. My kchng* (butt) never relax since I was born. Happy is when I sleep 12 hours, when I can touch my CPF, or when my pay go up &mdash; not just GST.&rdquo;
Rounding off with biting sarcasm, he concluded:
&ldquo;If Singapore is third happiest in the world, then I&rsquo;m the first happiest person in the world la siak. Don&rsquo;t gaslight me with happiest country. I&rsquo;m surviving, I&rsquo;m not smiling!&rdquo;
Netizens Weigh In
The video struck a chord with many online. Several commenters chimed in, agreeing with the TikToker&rsquo;s sentiments and questioning whose perspectives were truly being measured in the Happy City Index.
Some speculated the survey results may have leaned heavily on expats or high-income residents, rather than the average Singaporean citizen. Others even went as far as to say that life in Malaysia may be more attainable due to cheaper housing and car ownership.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/47a001fc54ccc01ece9384dd76b6b187085f257215efe27640e38b903e68d972" />
Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya Trail Far Behind
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bbb13fbd4ba9afb8316bc1386413c6284df19d1b89b5dd86485cad9193939a0e" />
While Singapore basked in its third-place glory, its regional neighbours fared significantly worse in the index. Kuala Lumpur was ranked 167th, while Petaling Jaya followed at 183rd out of over 200 cities.
The wide gap in rankings suggests a stark contrast in terms of infrastructure, governance, public services, and overall urban liveability &mdash; although local sentiments in Singapore show that a high rank doesn&rsquo;t necessarily equal high satisfaction on the ground.
As the debate rages on between data and daily realities, one thing is clear: happiness is far more complex than a number on a list.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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#3 in happiness — but still not #1 in food, lah.

fb62e1b27bf1ae84d7fc7226081f9874e727e85d402945cb1a2ecb5e1d09316e

Singapore Ranked One Of The World’s Happiest Cities — But This TikToker Doesn’t Agree

Bolt, the leading European mobility platform, has introduced an innovative Flight Tracking feature aimed at transforming the airport pick-up experience for travellers arriving in Malaysia. Starting today, passengers landing at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminals 1 and 2 can now enjoy a more seamless journey from the runway to their final destination, thanks to Bolt&rsquo;s integration of real-time flight data into its ride-scheduling service.
This new tool empowers users to sync their flight details with their Scheduled Ride on the Bolt app. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, the app will automatically adjust the pick-up time or cancel the ride accordingly&mdash;with no additional cost to the user. The update is designed to reduce stress and eliminate the uncertainty of airport transfers, especially during periods of flight disruption.
How to Use the New Flight Tracking Feature
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/19d132082793cf214f8e67bf7a875e45f575f89e4a75d9188d2be13e673bfec6" />
To take advantage of the Flight Tracking function, users should follow these simple steps within the Bolt app:
<ol>
<li>Open the app and tap on the &lsquo;Schedule&rsquo; button located next to the destination search bar.</li>
<li>Enter KLIA Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 as the pick-up location.</li>
<li>Choose your intended destination.</li>
<li>Select the option to &lsquo;Add Flight Details&rsquo;, where you can enter your flight&rsquo;s landing date, flight number, airline, or departure city to search and select the specific flight.</li>
<li>Choose the preferred waiting time after the flight has landed before being picked up.</li>
</ol>
Once these steps are completed, Bolt will monitor the flight status and automatically revise the ride&rsquo;s pick-up time in case of delays or remove the booking altogether if the flight is cancelled. This real-time adjustment ensures that passengers are not left stranded or charged for missed connections outside their control.
Bolt Strengthens Position as Airport Mobility Leader
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e479b20a4a58663e609b59ebc8f576ec2faf2052bebc1e4a0978e19f5b2f6913" />
Afzan Lutfi, General Manager of Bolt Malaysia, expressed pride in the company&rsquo;s expanding role in global airport mobility services. &ldquo;Bolt is now an official ride-hailing partner at more than 30 airports around the world, including both KLIA 1 and KLIA 2. Our users can enjoy direct pickups from the Arrivals area without needing to hunt for a designated zone or walk long distances,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;With the new Flight Tracking feature for Scheduled Rides, both individual and corporate customers using Bolt Business can now relax knowing that their ground transport is aligned with their flight schedule. If their flight is delayed or cancelled, we&rsquo;ll take care of the adjustments automatically, allowing passengers to spend less time waiting around the airport and enjoy a smoother, more predictable journey&mdash;whether they&rsquo;re travelling during peak holiday seasons or the quieter late-night hours.&rdquo;
Enhanced Scheduling Options for Frequent Flyers
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/12661e1cecca32d8e36eb0a691241d5b200cbd99af651b378bd0897ddc45cbe6" />
The launch of Flight Tracking follows Bolt&rsquo;s previous expansion of its Scheduled Rides booking window, which now allows users to arrange their rides up to 90 days in advance&mdash;a key benefit for business travellers and long-term planners.
Customers also have the flexibility to cancel a Scheduled Ride up to one hour before the arranged time at no cost. Cancellations made less than one hour prior will incur a RM10 late cancellation fee, helping balance flexibility for passengers with fair compensation for drivers.
Bolt continues to refine its Scheduled Rides offerings across international markets, tailoring service categories to local needs and customer habits, making the platform increasingly attractive to both casual travellers and frequent flyers.
Improving the On-the-Ground Airport Experience
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/22bc307bc9792434d66b73445696b856b108f4382d45fa4fb224181984eeef0f" />
As airport transfers represent one of the most common ride types on Bolt&rsquo;s platform, the company is also investing in improving the end-to-end user experience. In addition to Flight Tracking, the Bolt app now includes in-app visual directions, complete with clear photos, to help users locate the designated Bolt pick-up zones at KLIA with ease.
Furthermore, Bolt is working on enhanced airport branding and signage, so passengers can spot Bolt vehicles and pick-up points more readily after disembarking. These measures are intended to simplify navigation within the often complex airport environment and ensure passengers enjoy a stress-free transition from flight to road.
Positioning Bolt as a Leader in Airport Mobility
The introduction of Flight Tracking represents another step in Bolt&rsquo;s commitment to becoming a comprehensive travel partner, not just a point-to-point transport service. By reducing the friction typically associated with post-flight transportation, Bolt hopes to set a new benchmark in convenience, customer service, and technological integration.
As the aviation industry continues to rebound and international travel increases, innovations such as these will be key in building user loyalty and enhancing the experience of ride-hailing services in competitive urban and travel markets.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Delayed flight? Your Bolt pickup time adjusts itself—no need to rebook.

6d764a260380a1b12a54869d7dfe4ed3afc5f22c35a9da9fdb4c96ec42cd88b5

Bolt Introduces Flight Tracking Feature For Smoother Airport Pickups At KLIA

In a decisive move to address rising concerns over youth vaping, the Selangor state government has ordered all local authorities to immediately seize and remove advertisements promoting vape and electronic cigarette products. This directive covers both physical media, such as billboards and shopfront banners, and digital promotions seen on screens or online platforms.
The instruction was issued following a high-level coordination meeting on 16 May, chaired by Selangor&rsquo;s Executive Councillor for Public Health and Environment, Jamaliah Jamaluddin. The session, attended by representatives from the Selangor Health Department, Economic Planning Unit, district health offices, and local councils, was convened to discuss the prospect of a complete ban on vape sales in the state.
Backed by Federal Legislation
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/15413b323cd417bad634a5a6b35c5b08aa2093a6c016a94ecaa234d48e16fc2e" />
Jamaliah stated that the enforcement action aligns with the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023 (Act 852), a federal law which expressly prohibits all forms of advertising, sponsorship, and promotional activity for smoking-related products, including e-cigarettes and vapes.
&ldquo;This measure is in line with national legislation and reflects Selangor&rsquo;s commitment to safeguard public health, especially that of our younger generation,&rdquo; she said in an official statement.
The state&rsquo;s decision follows growing public concern about the visibility of vape marketing, particularly near schools and public areas, which critics say normalises the habit among impressionable youth.
Vaping Among Teen Boys Described as &lsquo;Alarming&rsquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/36e393857a8ff512a16debd1b8f85f4c05c8fd3aad70765be529317be714a97c" />
A significant motivator for the crackdown has been the escalating rate of vape use among adolescents. Jamaliah cited findings from the 2022 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), which reported that 14.9% of Malaysian boys aged 13 to 17 are regular vape users.
She described the figure as &ldquo;deeply alarming&rdquo; and warned that it signalled a dangerous trend that, if left unaddressed, could have long-term public health implications.
&ldquo;These statistics are not just numbers; they represent thousands of young lives potentially heading down a path of addiction and health problems,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;We cannot afford to be passive. The time to act is now.&rdquo;
Online Sales Remain a Key Regulatory Challenge
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5b6523d58626dc71ccf5cd79a82c1fc9ad063fcdbe8568c37503dc143b29e4f7" />
The meeting also addressed enforcement hurdles, including the issue of licensing, legal ambiguities, and surveillance mechanisms. One particularly thorny issue is the proliferation of online vape sales, which continue to bypass traditional regulatory frameworks.
&ldquo;Online platforms have become a primary channel for teenagers to access these products,&rdquo; Jamaliah noted. &ldquo;Regulating this space is challenging, but absolutely necessary.&rdquo;
Discussions explored the feasibility of tracking online vendors, introducing stricter e-commerce regulations, and improving cooperation with federal enforcement bodies.
State Policy Still Under Review
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/519b613c9c2eaa0c156def051f85d7ef03f79f93099fdeda0253807b02040c9a" />
While the removal of vape advertising has begun, the possibility of a full state-wide ban on vape product sales remains under deliberation. The Selangor Public Health Standing Committee is set to hold a follow-up meeting in the coming weeks to assess potential policy pathways. A final proposal will then be submitted to the Selangor State Executive Council for formal consideration.
Jamaliah stressed that any regulatory decision would be made with a strong emphasis on public health outcomes and the long-term welfare of Selangor&rsquo;s population.
&ldquo;Our approach is measured but firm. We are studying all possible implications&mdash;economic, legal, and social&mdash;before proceeding with a final stance on vape sales,&rdquo; she said.
Selangor Joins Growing Movement Among States
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3b7a3b0b8993fee845fbe0b04133f93fa77a2cd31a9d81c372d056251f30899c" />
Selangor&rsquo;s move echoes actions taken in other Malaysian states. Johor and Kelantan banned the sale of vape products in 2016 and 2015, respectively. More recently, Perlis and Terengganu announced their own bans, set to take effect on 1 August 2025. Kedah has opted not to introduce an outright ban, but will instead halt licence renewals for vape-related businesses once current permits expire.
These diverse approaches have sparked debate, particularly among industry players who argue that state-level bans conflict with the regulatory framework established by Act 852, which was intended to manage, not prohibit, the vape industry under federal law.
Call for Collective Responsibility
Despite the legal nuances, Selangor is calling for widespread support to ensure the success of its anti-vape campaign. Jamaliah said that the cooperation of parents, schools, healthcare professionals, and civil society organisations is vital to changing the tide of vape use among teens.
&ldquo;We welcome the active involvement of stakeholders at all levels&mdash;state, federal, and grassroots&mdash;to ensure these measures are effective and enduring,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;This is not just a government effort. It must be a collective societal responsibility.&rdquo;
The state government maintains that its actions are motivated not by political expediency but by a genuine concern for the well-being of future generations.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Local councils ordered to remove all vape promotions — is a full ban on the horizon?

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Selangor Cracks Down On Vape Advertising Amid Rising Teen Usage

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has launched a newly-designed physical Malaysian driving licence card featuring improved security elements and a refreshed aesthetic meant to symbolise the country's modernisation journey. While the move marks a key milestone in JPJ&rsquo;s broader digital transformation, the physical version of this updated licence is not available to everyone &mdash; at least for now.
Physical Card Limited to Travellers and Foreigners
Beginning 21 May 2025, the new physical driving licence card will only be issued to two categories of individuals:
<ol>
<li>Malaysian citizens who need to drive overseas</li>
<li>Foreign nationals residing in Malaysia renewing their licences</li>
</ol>
All other Malaysians renewing their driving licences will continue to receive only the digital version, accessible through the MyJPJ mobile application.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/69972bb70a138143da02e6694756a9a9de9dd93692d2c16f1d77c6a6f17a1e33" />
JPJ Director-General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli explained that the physical licence remains important for international use, particularly in countries that do not yet recognise digital licences.
&ldquo;Singapore accepts digital driving licences, but many countries still require a physical document. So for Malaysians travelling abroad, we advise them to obtain both the physical card and the International Driving Permit (IDP),&rdquo; Aedy said during a press conference at the IM Intensif Driving Institute in Adda Heights, Johor.
Malaysians requesting the physical version will need to present evidence of overseas travel, such as flight tickets or international job assignments, when applying for the card. JPJ officers have been instructed to strictly enforce these eligibility requirements.
Modern Design Reflects Malaysian Identity
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2af2a7c8cf8d074471251358b462d728c88b52040b45eb0cacf24f206186cf31" />
The new card incorporates design elements that showcase national heritage while embracing modern aesthetics and functionality. The artwork includes:
<ul>
<li>Front Side: A stylised illustration of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building accompanied by dynamic wave motifs, symbolising progress and the flow of traffic.</li>
<li>Back Side: A depiction of the Istana Negara, the Malaysian royal palace, accented with abstract floral patterns reflecting the nation&rsquo;s cultural richness.</li>
</ul>
Beyond the visual overhaul, the card also includes enhanced security features to deter forgery and fraud. It is printed on durable material designed to last up to 10 years under normal use &mdash; a significant improvement over earlier editions, which typically suffered from fading or wear within a few years.
JPJ has already begun issuing the card at selected branches, and it will be rolled out to more locations in phases. Authorities say the staggered implementation will allow for better resource management and ensure the new card&rsquo;s smooth integration into JPJ&rsquo;s systems.
Digital Licence Still the Default
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/055276beb07b75c6efa4e8b92fdc03a1cf6ff3e4657100149205ba437add9019" />
Despite the introduction of the new physical card, JPJ is keen to emphasise that the digital licence remains the default option for Malaysians.
Since its launch in 2023, the digital driving licence accessible through the MyJPJ app has become the standard format for licence renewals, particularly for those who drive solely within Malaysia. Users can download and present the digital licence on their mobile phones during routine police or JPJ checks, replacing the need to carry a plastic card.
Aedy reiterated that the shift toward digital documentation is part of the government&rsquo;s larger effort to modernise and streamline public service delivery.
&ldquo;We are aligning with global trends. Many countries are digitising public services, and Malaysia is no exception. However, we understand that there will always be exceptions, particularly when dealing with cross-border travel,&rdquo; he said.
Reforming Malaysia&rsquo;s Driving Institutions
The new licence launch also ties into a broader reform effort by JPJ to raise standards in Malaysia&rsquo;s 248 registered driving schools and testing institutions. Aedy Fadly outlined three key focus areas for JPJ moving forward:
<ol>
<li> Stricter Guidelines for Establishing Driving Schools </li>
</ol>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/dd2ca42ccea39009d8cb39f932db22d762d9ac4b13b222a589c0d671af5ad7bb" />
JPJ is reviewing and refining the criteria for setting up new driving institutes, with an emphasis on demand-based placement. The goal is to reduce waiting times and improve access in high-demand regions.
For example, in some densely populated areas like Klang, learners may wait up to three months to complete training due to overbooked facilities. In contrast, institutions like IM Intensif in Johor are able to complete training in as little as one month due to better infrastructure and scheduling efficiency.
<ol start="2">
<li> Digital Testing and Automation </li>
</ol>
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/dbd5e169c9d379738912880fded9accca249f6c2c94f23fcbc29e1b089875d97" />
In line with its digitisation agenda, JPJ is actively promoting the use of e-Testing systems and KPP01 (computer-based) test centres. These technologies are expected to reduce human bias, increase accuracy, and streamline the testing process.
Driving schools are being encouraged to adopt these systems voluntarily, although JPJ may consider making them mandatory in the future depending on nationwide implementation progress.
<ol start="3">
<li> Enforcement and Accountability</li>
</ol>
In recent enforcement exercises, JPJ found serious violations at several driving institutes. Two centres in Johor were caught breaching over 80 regulations, including:
<ul>
<li>Conducting practical lessons without certified instructors (SPIM)</li>
<li>Allowing instructors to handle more students than permitted</li>
<li>Instructors smoking during sessions</li>
<li>Failure to maintain proper logs and training records</li>
</ul>
&ldquo;These are not minor infractions,&rdquo; Aedy warned. &ldquo;Such negligence not only compromises safety but also diminishes public trust in our driving education system.&rdquo;
JPJ has vowed to step up inspections and will not hesitate to suspend or revoke licences of non-compliant institutions.
No Immediate Plans for General Distribution 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1576f1302233247e237f3ff639e42bb9185acdcfa3402c679123972220edfe2f" />
For now, JPJ has no plans to distribute the physical licence to all Malaysians. Officials cited cost, redundancy, and international relevance as key reasons for limiting the rollout.
&ldquo;The digital licence is legally valid within Malaysia. There&rsquo;s no urgent need for every motorist to have a plastic card. Unless you're travelling or a foreigner living here, the digital licence is sufficient,&rdquo; Aedy stated.
Those who still wish to obtain a physical card without a valid overseas requirement will be denied under the current policy. However, the department hinted that further policy adjustments could be made in the future depending on public feedback and international developments.
Looking Ahead
The selective rollout of the new driving licence card marks a significant shift in Malaysia&rsquo;s approach to public service delivery. By blending traditional identity markers with modern technology, JPJ aims to streamline operations, uphold legal standards, and cater to the evolving needs of both domestic and international drivers.
Whether future versions of the card will be made available more broadly remains to be seen. But for now, the focus remains on digital transformation, regulatory enforcement, and improving road safety outcomes through better driver education and institutional accountability.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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New card, bold design, and enhanced security features.

Chinese Student Lives In Luxury By Posing As A Wealthy 'Socialite'

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