Siti Muslihah

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Hej! (That&rsquo;s how we say &ldquo;hello&rdquo; in Swedish!)
Bolmen: your toilet brush. Toftan: your trash can. Misterhult: your bamboo lamp. Those exotic-sounding names that IKEA gives your household products are familiar words to Swedish speakers -- often, they're named after famous destinations.
Well, the main question here is &ndash; why is it called that?
The Art of Naming
Why put numbers when we can rock other methods to make life even more colourful.
Ingvar Kamprad, IKEA founder, had a hard time remembering numbers. So, he decided to name all of his products.
Two of his first products were consequently not called 978.664.10 but LARS armchair and INGE rocking chair.
Only genius could turn an obstacle into something even more clever, and easier!
The Names Are Real-Life Places In Sweden
The Swedish tourist board is now reclaiming those names in a new marketing campaign as an effort to get people to know about both of the mesmerising originals, as well as the knock-offs.
IKEA product names can sometimes appear almost like puns but also even unfamiliar to a Swede.
Today, millions of people think that Bolmen is nothing more than a toilet brush. And if one searches for J&auml;rvfj&auml;llet, all they will find are pictures of gaming chairs. It&rsquo;s time the world know that these names belong to wonderful places in Sweden.
It Is Time To Discover The Originals
Ektorp, Toftan, Voxnan, Hemsj&ouml;, Kallax... These are all fantastic locations to visit in Sweden. However,&nbsp;majority of&nbsp;people associate these names with trash can, sofas, bath towels, block candles, and shelf systems. And it's all thanks to a blue and yellow colossus.
According to Visit Sweden website, there are a lot of IKEA&rsquo;s products are named after place in Sweden which that is good for a Swedish company. Unfortunately, it has caused a great deal of misunderstanding especially to non-Swedish people. Now, it is the time for everyone to see on the brighter side, better than just the products.
Bolmen, a large lake in the Sm&aring;land region of southern Sweden (or toilet brush).
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://cdn1.myc.com.my/image/upload/v1639127971/unsigned/q6chjtzswu9xk1me3h2a.jpg" alt="" width="694" height="391" />
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Cleaning the toilet bowl might not be the most pleasant of chores, but sometimes you just thank god &ndash; or IKEA &ndash; for that effective brush.
Of course, it hardly compares to Lake Bolmen, from where it borrows its name. This huge lake in Sm&aring;land has everything you&rsquo;d expect from one of Sweden&rsquo;s best lakes: water so clean you could drink from it, lots of freshwater fish, and beaches with kayaks for rent. Go for a swim or discover the surrounding nature reserve &ndash; by the original Bolmen.
J&auml;rvfj&auml;llet, a mountain in Swedish Lapland (or gaming chair).
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://cdn1.myc.com.my/image/upload/v1639128075/unsigned/bti4ta4gp9kep008kfgb.jpg" alt="" width="694" height="390" />
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Please, feel free to play video games to your heart&rsquo;s content, but sometimes we all need something more real. Something that&rsquo;s as far away from digital swords and super combos as possible. That&rsquo;s J&auml;rvfj&auml;llet in the northern county of Lappland.
Here, there&rsquo;s not a 5G tower in sight. It&rsquo;s just you, the ground you walk on and the fresh air you breathe. Go for a hike, put up your tent, and make sure you have a spare battery for your camera &ndash; in the original J&auml;rvfj&auml;llet.
Ektorp, a suburb of Stockholm (or a sofa).
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Spending your evenings at home on a comfy Ektorp sofa is all very nice, but visiting Ektorp in Nacka is a whole other experience.
Lots of people live here &ndash; it&rsquo;s close to Stockholm, but has the Baltic Sea, lakes and woods right around the corner. Explore the Nyckelviken nature reserve, enjoy dinner at the old manor.
If you&rsquo;re lucky enough to visit in December, make sure you try the Swedish Christmas buffet. After that you may find yourself longing for a nap, either in an Ektorp sofa or back in the original Ektorp.
Sk&auml;rhamn, a fishing village on the island of Tj&ouml;rn (or door handle).
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A beautiful door handle may well be the finishing touch your home needs, but if you&rsquo;re looking for natural beauty in the great outdoors, then Sk&auml;rhamn is the place to go.
Once an important fishing port, Sk&auml;rhamn is a small village on the island Tj&ouml;rn, on Sweden&rsquo;s west coast.
Today, Sk&auml;rhamn offers a magnificent mix of unique landscapes, lots of water activities, fresh seafood and international art at Nordiska Akvarellmuseet. Bring your swimsuit and enjoy life in West Sweden, and in the original Sk&auml;rhamn.
Kallax, a village near Lule&aring; in Swedish Lapland (or storage shelf)
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Natural beauty and lots of space &ndash; that&rsquo;s Kallax the flexible shelf, as well as Kallax the village.
Kallax lies in Swedish Lapland, just outside the town of Lule&aring;. Situated by the sea, this little spot is famous for its very smelly fermented herring (called &lsquo;surstr&ouml;mming&rsquo; in Swedish).
Every year in August, Kallax holds a fermented herring party where VIP-guests and locals celebrate together. So, take a deep breath, bring an open mind and discover the full taste of original Kallax.
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://cdn1.myc.com.my/image/upload/v1639128476/unsigned/eur6e1zphimdavwej7ri.gif" alt="" width="200" height="200" />
There are always new things to learn everyday and there are&nbsp;16 other places Sweden is &ldquo;reclaiming from IKEA:
<ul>
<li>Stubbarp, a town 300 miles south of Stockholm (or cabinet legs)</li>
<li>H&ouml;ljes, a forest in the V&auml;rmland region (or pendant lamp)</li>
<li>Hemsj&ouml;, a village in the Blekinge region (or candle)</li>
<li>Toftan, a lake in the Dalarna region (or trash can)</li>
<li>M&auml;sterby, an historical battleground on the island of Gotland (or a stool)</li>
<li>Voxnan, a river with waterfalls and rapids in the H&auml;lsingland region (or shower shelf)</li>
<li>Himle&aring;n, area of ravines in the Halland region (or bath towel)</li>
<li>Laxviken, a pretty village in the J&auml;mtland H&auml;rjedalen region (or cabinet door)</li>
<li>Ingatorp, a historical village in Sm&aring;land (or extendable table)</li>
<li>Misterhult, a 2000-island archipelago near Kalmar in Sm&aring;land (or bamboo lamp)</li>
<li>Vrena, a village near the east coast in the S&ouml;rmland region (or countertop)</li>
<li>Bj&ouml;rksta, a village close to Uppsala (or picture frame)</li>
<li>Norberg, a small town in V&auml;stmanland region (or folding table)</li>
<li>Askersund, a town near &Ouml;rebro in central Sweden (or cabinet door)</li>
<li>Rimforsa, a small village in the &Ouml;sterg&ouml;tland region of east Sweden (or work bench)</li>
<li>Bodviken, a mountain lake in the UNESCO World heritage area of the High Coast in northern Sweden (or washbasin)</li>
</ul>
To find out more about the places, visit <a style="color: #3598db;" href="https://visitsweden.com/discover-the-originals/">Discover The Originals</a>!
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, CNN, Visit Sweden &amp; various cross references for context.
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From toilet brush to bamboo lamp, those exotic-sounding names that IKEA gives your household products are familiar words to Swedish speakers, but actually they are…

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Have You Ever Wondered Why IKEA Products Are Called Like 'That'?

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AXE MLBB

Trevor Noah has wrapped up his two-night Malaysian debut at Idea Live Arena in Petaling Jaya, bringing his sharp brand of political and cultural comedy to local audiences on 9 and 10 November 2026. The sold-out shows marked a major stop on his Asia tour, but his visit also prompted a familiar question: how far can a comedian go with a joke in Malaysia, where comments touching on politics, race, religion or public figures can sometimes spark strong reactions?
That sensitivity appeared to be on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim&rsquo;s mind when he met the South African comedian ahead of his second performance. In a light-hearted exchange, Anwar said he had offered Noah a few pointers on material that might work with Malaysian audiences, while joking that the comedian should not worry if anyone took offence. The Prime Minister even offered to help crowdfund a rescue if the jokes landed Noah in trouble.
Trevor Noah Makes His Malaysian Debut
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/23c0591999ada94b065c61adc63aafb49f6ff562ef41ff041c81678a55895470" />
Noah performed at Idea Live Arena on 9 November, with a second show added for 10 November after the original date sold out. Both performances were reported to have sold out, according to organiser LOL Asia. Organised by LOL Asia and BOHM, the shows were part of Noah&rsquo;s Trevor Noah Asia Tour 2026, which has also included destinations such as Singapore and Hong Kong.
The Malaysian dates marked Noah&rsquo;s first performances in the country. His appearance attracted attention because political satire is central to his comedy, while jokes about public figures and current affairs can sometimes provoke strong reactions in Malaysia.
Who Is Trevor Noah?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6954d9189b5851c6fe5e22708853b3beaee9ae6fee3924e5fccb57931919e13b" />
Trevor Noah is a South African comedian, television presenter, writer and producer who rose to international prominence as the host of American satirical news programme The Daily Show. He took over the role in 2015, succeeding Jon Stewart, and remained at the helm until 2022.
During his seven-year tenure, Noah developed a global following for his commentary on politics, world events and cultural differences. His ability to approach complex issues through humour, while drawing on his own experiences and perspective, helped make him one of the best-known figures in American late-night television.
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Before his international breakthrough, Noah had established a career in South Africa as a stand-up comedian and television personality. The Daily Show later introduced him to viewers well beyond the comedy circuit.
Since leaving the programme, Noah has continued performing stand-up internationally, releasing comedy specials and touring around the world. He is also the author of the bestselling memoir Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood, which recounts his upbringing during apartheid. The book was widely praised for combining personal stories with humour and reflections on race, identity and inequality.
His career has extended beyond stand-up and television. Noah hosted the Grammy Awards for six consecutive years and currently hosts the podcast What Now? With Trevor Noah, where he speaks with guests about culture, politics and personal experiences.
Anwar Jokes About Crowdfunding Noah If His Jokes Cause Trouble
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b6d4df1f84650a4055b08d827ef36ab48a4ee509538eebff08d77ff6a04bc1b4" />
Ahead of Noah&rsquo;s second show on 10 November, Anwar welcomed the comedian to the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office in Putrajaya. The two discussed politics, humour and various stories, with the Prime Minister describing the meeting as one filled with laughter.
In a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/anwaribrahimofficial/posts/pfbid02NrAAiWMW7UARKmHn3d5u14PsPtbYbLEKWjk9Zp6WDA7bv2Xpc4t3meX5tyYCvCUBl">Facebook post</a> sharing photographs of their meeting, Anwar said he had offered Noah some suggestions about the kind of jokes he could bring to the stage that evening.
&ldquo;I also managed to share a few tips on material that might be suitable for tonight&rsquo;s performance. Hopefully no one takes offence!&rdquo; Anwar wrote.
He then delivered the line that caught the attention of social media users, reassuring Noah that he would not be left to deal with any backlash alone.
&ldquo;In any case, don&rsquo;t worry, Trevor. If anything happens tonight, we&rsquo;ll all chip in and crowdfund together!&rdquo; he added.
Anwar also shared a video from the meeting, which included a moment when Noah said &ldquo;lawan tetap lawan&rdquo;, a phrase commonly associated with Malaysian political rhetoric.
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A Timely Crowdfunding Joke
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The Prime Minister&rsquo;s remark appeared to be a playful reference to a recent crowdfunding effort linked to former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak. In September, the Najib Razak Solidarity Fund was launched, with contributions later used by Umno to settle the RM50 million fine imposed on its former president.
The timing gave Anwar&rsquo;s joke an added local political reference, although he did not explicitly name Najib or the fundraising campaign in his post. Instead, he kept the exchange light, using the crowdfunding line as a humorous assurance in case Noah&rsquo;s material upset anyone.
The meeting offered a glimpse of the comedian&rsquo;s interaction with Malaysia&rsquo;s political leadership just before he took the stage. For Noah, the two sold-out performances marked his first visit to Malaysia as part of his 2026 Asia tour. For local audiences, Anwar&rsquo;s joke added another talking point to a visit that brought one of the world&rsquo;s most recognisable political comedians to Petaling Jaya.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Anwar had some advice for Trevor Noah, but his final joke stole the show.

9dcfff2d94eec5aecb081a7afa30bb48a0638e833980b3eb63ae1bea4917677a

Anwar Jokes That Malaysia Will Crowdfund Trevor Noah If His Jokes Cause Him Trouble

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has admitted to having an extramarital affair, as the company faces scrutiny over reports that the woman he was involved with was suspected by US intelligence officials of having links to Chinese intelligence.
The controversy has raised questions about national security, Nvidia&rsquo;s business dealings and disclosures to investors. The woman has been identified in media reports as Alice Huang, also known as Huang Le. She is not related to Jensen Huang.
Neither the alleged espionage nor any transfer of confidential information has been established publicly. China has rejected the accusations, while Nvidia&rsquo;s board has launched an independent investigation.
Who Is Alice Huang?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f678cd48a24274158df6305fa8f01326d9ec172a760d7ee05396284bee3f99f0" />
Alice Huang has been described as a Chinese businesswoman and former senior executive at Megaspeed, a Singapore-based data centre company that rents computing capacity powered by Nvidia chips.
Online profiles associated with her name list previous roles at China Central Television (CCTV), Hunan TV and HSBC, as well as a senior position at Shanghai-based Hexi Capital. However, her employment history remains unverified. Agence France-Presse (AFP) said it could not confirm the contents or origin of one profile.
Alice&rsquo;s name attracted attention because of Megaspeed&rsquo;s business with Nvidia. Reports said the company purchased billions of dollars&rsquo; worth of Nvidia hardware, with VnExpress citing purchases exceeding US$4.8 billion over two years.
Megaspeed has also faced allegations that advanced Nvidia chips supplied to data centres in Southeast Asia may have been diverted to China, potentially breaching US export controls. The company has denied wrongdoing and rejected claims that it was involved in illegal chip transfers.
Reported Relationship With Nvidia&rsquo;s Jensen Huang
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2b2919654e7947b8ff5d764b1e39311202691d6c1fe5e4de32c8e85c6a9855c1" />
Photographs and footage reportedly showed the pair together in Taiwan, including at a Taipei restaurant during Computex in May 2025. Video appeared to show Alice kissing Jensen on the cheek, while other images of them later circulated on Chinese social media.
The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal reported that US intelligence officials suspected Alice of having links to China&rsquo;s Ministry of State Security and potentially gathering information about Jensen and Nvidia. The alleged objective may have included gaining insight into the company and influencing its position on sales of advanced AI chips to China.
These remain intelligence allegations, not established findings. Beijing has rejected them. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun described the portrayal of Alice as a spy as baseless vilification and smearing.
Jensen Huang Admits To Affair And Apologises
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/173d5f24d491af0439b6128921c345433f5a53a70af3a44bf3edd07827d56f01" />
In a message to Nvidia employees on 8 November, Jensen acknowledged that he had been unfaithful to his wife, Lori Huang, whom he married in 1985. He apologised to his family, colleagues, the company&rsquo;s board, business partners and shareholders.
He said his actions had hurt his wife and children, accepted responsibility and asked that his family be given privacy. He also reaffirmed his commitment to Nvidia.
Jensen did not identify the woman involved. However, he said he supported the board&rsquo;s investigation into the national security concerns raised in media reports and would co-operate fully.
US President Donald Trump said on 9 November that he had spoken to Jensen, who told him he had no idea the woman was allegedly a spy. Trump said he believed the CEO&rsquo;s account and added that the FBI was looking into the matter.
Nvidia Launches Independent Investigation
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3ec125aca8f8196b7cc8575f3edd71102bfcf1cb463a3df8ec3ec13597dc1ca1" />
Nvidia&rsquo;s board announced on 8 November that a committee of independent directors, assisted by external legal counsel, would investigate reports that Jensen had been the target of a foreign intelligence effort.
The board said it had no reason to believe US national security or Nvidia&rsquo;s trade secrets had been compromised, but would examine all available information. It also expressed confidence in Jensen and his leadership team.
The issue has attracted attention because Nvidia is a major supplier of chips used to train and run artificial intelligence systems. US restrictions on exports of advanced semiconductors to China have made the company&rsquo;s overseas sales particularly sensitive.
Jensen has also become an influential voice in Washington&rsquo;s AI and semiconductor discussions, including talks with the Trump administration about chip exports to China. The allegations have raised questions about whether the reported relationship could have exposed sensitive business or policy information, although no such disclosure has been confirmed.
Nvidia Shares Fall As Shareholders File Lawsuit
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Nvidia&rsquo;s shares fell about 4.3 per cent on 9 November, wiping approximately US$190 billion from its market value, according to reports.
A proposed class-action lawsuit was filed against Nvidia and Jensen in federal court in San Jose, California, on the same day. Shareholders accuse the company and its CEO of misleading investors by failing to disclose information about the alleged relationship and the potential risks to Nvidia&rsquo;s reputation and business prospects.
The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages. Its claims have not been proven, and Nvidia had not immediately responded to a request for comment at the time of reporting.
The board&rsquo;s investigation will now be central to determining whether the reported relationship created risks for Nvidia. Until the available evidence is examined, claims of espionage or compromised company information should be treated as allegations rather than fact.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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An alleged espionage link has put one of the world's biggest AI companies under scrutiny.

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Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Admits Affair As Board Investigates Alleged Chinese Spy Links

British actor Riz Ahmed has revealed that he gained so much weight while enjoying Malaysian food during a film shoot in Penang that the production team had to refit his costumes. The Emmy-winning star made the admission during an appearance on the Dish from Waitrose podcast, where he spoke about his appreciation for Malaysia&rsquo;s diverse food culture and the dishes he tried during his stay.
Ahmed, 43, joked that his love of local cuisine had left a noticeable mark on his wardrobe, particularly his trousers. Despite the extra work required to adjust his costumes, however, the actor made it clear that he had no regrets about indulging in the food.
Riz Ahmed Praises Malaysia&rsquo;s Diverse Food Culture
During the podcast, hosted by broadcaster Nick Grimshaw and Michelin-starred chef Angela Hartnett, Ahmed was asked whether he was a fan of Malaysian food.
He explained that one of the things he enjoyed most about the cuisine was the way it brings together influences from different culinary traditions, including Indonesian, Indian, Chinese and distinctly Malay flavours.
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<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DfZ_KwnJr2W/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Dish (@dish_podcast)</a>
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&ldquo;What I like about Malaysian food is, it&rsquo;s Indonesian food, Indian food, obviously its own kind of Malay flavours and Chinese food, all kind of thrown together. So you get this amazing mix of stuff,&rdquo; he said.
Ahmed also highlighted combinations such as roti served with rendang, describing the dishes as familiar favourites with a Malaysian twist. He mentioned nasi goreng as another example of the food he enjoyed, although he was particularly enthusiastic about the variety created by the country&rsquo;s mix of influences.
The actor then shared how much he had eaten during his time in Malaysia, joking that the production had to make significant changes to his wardrobe.
&ldquo;I gotta tell you, I put on so much weight there they had to refit my costume... Literally they had to redo my trousers, they had to do the whole thing,&rdquo; he said.
While the comment prompted a light-hearted moment during the conversation, Ahmed was not complaining about the experience. He said he had &ldquo;no regrets&rdquo;, suggesting that the food had been well worth the wardrobe adjustments.
Why Was Riz Ahmed In Penang?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b21e505de1f0efa701e9780b5dee43d9e5a692180a6299c69ea0ef0f9480b03a" />
Ahmed was in Malaysia during the summer while filming scenes for The Big Fix, a Netflix crime thriller starring Mark Wahlberg. The production spent part of July in Penang, with filming taking place at several locations around the state.
Directed by Baltasar Korm&aacute;kur, The Big Fix is inspired by a true story and follows a former Interpol officer who uncovers an international football match-fixing operation. The crime thriller centres on an investigation into corruption within the world of professional football.
The cast also includes US-based Malaysian actress Nuha Jes Izman, Singaporean actor Chin Han and Indian actor Vipin Sharma. The project brought an international production and several familiar screen names to Penang, drawing attention to the state as a filming destination.
The Big Fix Brings International Film Production To Penang
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/77ae4e32e10acd36458f2ae1fcfae01593ab47899a31b48702d164221c08bf69" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/5176/mark-wahlberg-and-riz-ahmed-spotted-filming-netflix-thriller-the-big-fix-in-penang">Mark Wahlberg &amp; Riz Ahmed Spotted Filming Netflix Thriller &lsquo;The Big Fix&rsquo; In Penang</a>
The production&rsquo;s presence in Penang was more than a brief visit. According to information shared by local authorities, the Penang Island City Council granted a filming permit covering the period from 1 to 31 July.
Penang state executive councillor for tourism and creative economy Wong Hon Wai said early scenes were filmed at several recognisable locations, including Jawi Peranakan Mansion, Cheong Fatt Tze &ndash; also known as the Blue Mansion &ndash; Lorong Ikan and Penang City Stadium. Batu Kawan Stadium was also listed as a location for subsequent filming.
The scale of the production attracted visits from Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil and National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) chairman Datuk Hans Isaac, who were seen at the set.
Wong said productions of this scale could help promote Penang internationally, particularly through exposure on a major streaming platform such as Netflix. Film crews working at local landmarks and public spaces can also introduce overseas audiences to the state&rsquo;s architecture, heritage and surroundings.
Clips and photographs from the shoot circulated on social media during production. Among the footage shared online were scenes showing Wahlberg walking through a bazaar and arriving at a shop, giving Malaysians a glimpse of the filming taking place around the state.
The Penang Island City Council also said it had approved six local and international film productions that year, reflecting the range of projects using the state as a filming location.
Who Is Riz Ahmed?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/31fd39d8e17779331de6f94e05c00931489c1d3fe8d0896828ff64d99e93f8e5" />
Ahmed is a British-Pakistani actor, writer and rapper who has built an international career across film and television. He won a Primetime Emmy Award for his performance in the crime drama The Night Of and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in Sound of Metal.
His other screen credits include Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Venom. Alongside acting, he has also pursued music and writing, earning recognition for work that spans several creative fields.
His appearance on Dish from Waitrose gave audiences a more personal glimpse of his time in Malaysia, with the conversation moving beyond his film work to the food he enjoyed while shooting in Penang.
For Ahmed, the visit appears to have left a particularly memorable impression on his appetite &ndash; even if his costumes needed a little extra room afterwards.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Malaysia’s food was so good, even Hollywood had to make room!

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Riz Ahmed Says Malaysian Food Made Him Gain So Much Weight That His Costumes Had To Be Refit

Malaysian influencer and YouTuber Isa Isarb has claimed that he and members of his production team were detained in Indonesia for six days while filming a documentary about haze and forest fires. He said authorities suspected them of being Malaysian spies or individuals working with certain parties to destabilise the government.
The 28-year-old said the incident began when his team stopped to interview students at a demonstration while travelling to a forest fire site. What began as an environmental documentary project, he claimed, turned into days of questioning and uncertainty before they were eventually allowed to return to Malaysia.
Who Is Isa Isarb?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/57bd12ee7b0f038b0776e8cb6406286921f2f3d8dd0d615f7f6b8fc9aef40c4b" />
Isa Isarb, whose real name is Isa Batharul Zaman, is a Malaysian YouTuber, content creator and social media influencer who rose to fame through his entertaining and unconventional online content. He began his YouTube journey in 2015, initially posting casual videos before gaining wider recognition for his challenges, pranks, social experiments and attention-grabbing stunts.
His popularity grew through videos featuring cash giveaways, acts of generosity towards strangers, extravagant challenges and lifestyle content. His ability to produce engaging and shareable videos helped him build a strong following, making him one of the recognisable personalities in Malaysia's digital entertainment scene. Over the years, he has also expanded his presence into business ventures, music and livestreaming.
Today, Isa Isarb is known for his distinctive content style, combining entertainment, generosity and larger-than-life experiences. His journey reflects how social media platforms, particularly YouTube, can provide opportunities for local content creators to build influential personal brands and reach millions of viewers.
Stopped At Student Demonstration Before Being Detained
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/db99b5c2e4792c88d240037a37525a98f5c04aca6cb3559fb7ba38ac55b0f46e" />
<a href="https://www.threads.com/@isaisarb/post/DfeSjdZmXDP?xmt=AQG0DW523zBJdiH0fN5CLLymg3VHnkIPLJEsTRVMGno0SMxi-wlfgtOX1Qn0tdnMj7YbwQc">According to Isa</a>, the team was heading to an area affected by forest fires when they noticed a crowd gathered at a student demonstration. They stopped to interview several people, but were approached shortly afterwards by between 10 and 15 Indonesian authorities.
One officer addressed him by his real name, Isa Batharul, rather than the name Isa Isarb by which he is better known. He said this made him suspect something was wrong.
He claimed the team was detained over the alleged misuse of tourist visas, as they were told the visas did not permit filming or visits to demonstration sites. At the station, Isa was asked to unlock his phone and explain the visit before the group spent the night in a lock-up.
Spy Allegations And Six Days Of Questioning
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ecb94b4757cd3ac6f3522ca4bb652258230c3c2a98a8fe6b16235e584e05a2ba" />
Isa said the situation became more intimidating the following day when around 40 additional personnel arrived at the station. He said they included cyber security personnel and senior officers.
He claimed investigators later told the team they were suspected of being Malaysian spies, citing conversations with several Malaysian political figures. These included communications with the office of Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman and Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil.
Isa maintained that the conversations were simply arrangements to invite the politicians for interviews for the haze documentary. He added that an invitation to interview Syed Saddiq at Parliament had raised suspicion, although it was arranged around the MP&rsquo;s schedule.
The influencer claimed that he and his team were questioned daily over the next six days. He said they feared the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence or even the death penalty if convicted of espionage. These were fears he described, not confirmed legal outcomes.
Isa also spoke about missing his wife and child while detained. To cope with the anxiety, he said he used a metal pin from his detention notice to scratch drawings of their faces onto the lock-up wall. He added that he experienced panic attacks on some nights because he did not know what would happen next.
Isa And His Team Return To Malaysia
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5a212df607fbcf19f4309bf0e8932e7f0fed3a92e46090e9cc3f62a14e674167" />
Isa said the team was eventually able to return home, crediting the assistance provided through diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Indonesia. He thanked Indonesian authorities for what he described as fair treatment and the Malaysian government for its assistance.
He said he planned to share more details as a lesson to others but did not want the incident used for political campaigning. The documentary and his account of the detention were scheduled for release on his YouTube channel on 16 November, after the Melaka state election.
Why Does Indonesia Experience Haze Almost Every Year?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2e1a722db1f6e1e0456d6b497813e191b8295f600bdad26d2a9e95411a47246b" />
Indonesia's recurring haze problem is closely linked to forest and land fires, particularly during the dry season. Smoke from burning vegetation and peatlands can spread across borders, affecting neighbouring countries such as Malaysia and Singapore.
One contributing factor is the use of fire to clear land for agriculture and plantations. Burning can be a cheaper way to remove vegetation, but fires may spread into surrounding forests when conditions are dry. Peat fires are especially difficult to control because they can burn underground and continue smouldering for extended periods.
Low rainfall, prolonged drought and weather patterns such as El Ni&ntilde;o can make the problem worse by drying out vegetation and peat. Not every fire is deliberately started, but land-clearing practices and gaps in fire prevention and enforcement can contribute to recurring outbreaks.
The haze is therefore more than a seasonal weather problem. It is connected to land management, peatland protection and the ability to prevent and contain fires. Isa's planned documentary aims to explore this cross-border environmental issue, although his reported detention has added an unexpected development to the story.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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From investigating forest fires to facing spy suspicions, Isa Isarb shares his unexpected ordeal.

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Malaysian Influencer Isa Isarb Claims He Was Detained For Six Days In Indonesia Over Spy Suspicions

The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is investigating allegations that elements of worship were featured during The Weeknd&rsquo;s two-night concert in Kuala Lumpur, following criticism of the show&rsquo;s stage visuals on social media.
Religious Affairs Minister Dr Zulkifli Hasan said JAKIM&rsquo;s Research Division was working with the secretariat of the Central Agency Committee for Applications for Filming and Performances by Foreign Artistes (PUSPAL) to verify the claims and determine whether the organisers had complied with the conditions and guidelines imposed on foreign performers.
The review follows the Canadian singer&rsquo;s successful two-night After Hours Til Dawn Tour finale at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on 4 and 5 November. An estimated 130,000 fans attended, while memorable and amusing moments from the shows continued circulating online.
JAKIM And PUSPAL Reviewing Allegations
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In a statement shared on 9 November, Zulkifli said the authorities were examining the validity of the allegations, as well as whether the concert had breached any of the requirements set for the performance.
He stressed that Islam strictly prohibits any form of worship directed towards anyone or anything other than Allah. He added that artistic performances must not create confusion over matters of faith, morality and religious sensitivities in Malaysia.
Zulkifli said firm action would be taken under the law if a breach was established through verified facts. No finding that the concert had violated the guidelines has been announced.
Giant Golden Statue Sparks Online Backlash
The controversy centres on a giant golden female robot sculpture featured prominently on stage throughout The Weeknd&rsquo;s After Hours Til Dawn Tour.
Designed by Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama, the towering figure appeared alongside performers dressed in red hooded robes, with the stage built around a futuristic landscape of golden ruins. The visuals prompted some social media users to question whether the imagery carried ritualistic or worship-related symbolism.
PAS Youth also questioned how the visuals had been approved, claiming that some elements resembled rituals and could normalise practices that conflict with Islamic beliefs. The group linked the stage concept to a fictional civilisation that worshipped machines as gods. These claims remain allegations, which JAKIM and PUSPAL are working to verify.
The Weeknd Wraps Up Successful Two-Night Malaysia Show
The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, chose Kuala Lumpur as the final stop of his global After Hours Til Dawn Tour, which began in 2022. The shows drew an estimated 65,000 concertgoers each night, including fans who travelled from overseas and queued early for merchandise.
Several moments from the performances quickly went viral. During &ldquo;Out of Time&rdquo;, The Weeknd walked into the crowd and handed the microphone to a fan, while his shout-outs to &ldquo;KL&rdquo; and &ldquo;Malaysia&rdquo; drew loud cheers.
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Japanese duo Creepy Nuts also won over the audience by signing off with a cheerful &ldquo;terima kasih banyak banyak&rdquo;. Another widely shared moment involved local fan Juhan Shameerul Shaharuzaman, who managed to touch The Weeknd&rsquo;s hand at the barricade. He later said it felt like a blessing and admitted he kissed the hand he had used to touch the singer at least three times.
There were some less glamorous moments, too. Traffic congestion and transport problems after the concerts left some fans struggling to get home, with one concertgoer reportedly walking around five kilometres after failing to secure a ride. These stories, alongside the fan interactions, kept the two-night finale circulating online.
What Happens Next?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b3ec37b7a66986294f344cd4975bcb0db77eeda93918c43fb3f5cba897eee997" />
PUSPAL coordinates the approval process for foreign artistes, and the current review will assess whether the stage design and performance met the required conditions. No penalties have been announced, and the authorities have yet to confirm any violation.
While The Weeknd&rsquo;s Kuala Lumpur shows have concluded on a high note for many fans, the debate surrounding the golden statue has placed the balance between artistic expression and religious sensitivities back in the spotlight. The findings could also influence how organisers and international artistes approach stage concepts for future concerts in Malaysia.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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What started as a concert spectacle has now sparked a religious sensitivity debate.

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