Latest news with #Amira
New Straits Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Fattah, Amira meeting sparks more relationship talk
KUALA LUMPUR: A recent, brief, but meaningful encounter between Fattah Amin and Amira Othman's father has ignited excitement among fans who have long been curious about the true nature of the artistes' relationship. The speculation began when Amira, 32, shared a video of Fattah meeting her father, swiftly leading to suggestions that the two might be more than just colleagues. Adding fuel to the fire, Fattah, 35, later showed the same video to his mother, Azizah Abdul Ghani, during a TikTok live session. Her lighthearted reaction immediately caught fans' attention: "That's sweet. Abang Long just went to visit his coworker's father," she remarked, hinting that the meeting was more than a casual gesture. Fans appear to be increasingly convinced that the pair's relationship extends beyond a professional level, with some even calling it a subtle hint of meeting the future in-laws. "That's not your average coworker, even Fattah's mum looks like she's already given her blessing," one fan commented, reflecting the popular sentiment. Since starring together in the music video 'Bila Nak Kahwin' (When Will You Marry?), Fattah and Amira have frequently been seen as an ideal pair. Their joint appointments as brand ambassadors have further amplified public speculation. Despite their undeniable chemistry, both continue to insist they are simply work partners. Regardless, fans remain hopeful that this "perfect duo" might one day become a real-life couple.
New Straits Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Is the cinema night history?
IN a world where Hollywood blockbusters share digital space with quiet indie gems on streaming platforms, the classic movie-going ritual is facing stiff competition. But are younger Malaysians really breaking up with the big screen? Or is there still magic in the cinema lights and surround sound? The smell of popcorn, the hush that falls as the lights dim, the collective gasp during plot twists; they're all part of the full experience. Amira (not her full name), 22, agrees. "I prefer cinemas, hands down," she says. "There's the atmosphere, the anticipation. You plan the outing, you dress up, and you sit there with your friends. No distractions, just the movie the way it's meant to be watched." But she admits it's not perfect. "Tickets and snacks can burn a hole in your wallet. And you can't just sprawl in bed or pause to grab snacks like you can at home. But for me, the trade-off is worth it. It's something to look forward to." Amira isn't alone in choosing the big screen. Haziqah, 23, agrees that cinema outings still hold strong appeal. She doesn't enjoy watching movies on phones or laptops and says cinema visits are a chance to spend quality time with loved ones. "It can be expensive, so I don't go every week. But once in a while, it's a treat." Then there's Ameen, a self-declared moviegoer, who believes some films are simply designed for theatres. "The sound system, the screen... it's immersive. That's the whole point of cinema." He also points out one overlooked cinema con: "Sometimes there's a serious toilet shortage during packed shows." Still, streaming platforms aren't rolling the credits anytime soon. For Alysa, 21, the choice is clear: comfort always wins. "I like streaming more," she says. "You can pause, you can lie down, and if I fall asleep, which happens a lot, I can just rewatch later." She also appreciates the cost savings and flexibility. "You pay once a month and you can watch whatever, whenever. It's great for someone like me who likes rewatching things and hates sitting still for too long." There's no denying streaming services offer the kind of freedom that cinemas can't match. With ever-growing choices, viewers can build their own movie nights around their moods, dinner plans, or attention spans. And with smart TVs, soundbars, and projectors becoming more affordable, the line between "home cinema" and actual cinema is blurry. For many in their early 20s, juggling studies, side gigs, and social lives, the option to press play at midnight or watch a movie in parts over a few days just makes sense. The streaming-first strategy reshapes entire viewing cultures. Rom-coms, once cinema staples that drew dating couples and friend groups, now debut directly on platforms. Animated films that traditionally introduced children to theatrical magic are increasingly launched in living rooms instead. This shift creates cascading effects. Children growing up without regular cinema experiences might never develop the communal viewing appreciation that previous generations took for granted. The ritual of "going to the movies" risks becoming as antiquated as drive-in theatres or video rental stores. But the cinema is evolving. Reclining seats, gourmet snacks, and loyalty apps are all part of the industry's strategy to keep audiences returning. Some now offer exclusive premieres with cast appearances, special merchandise, collectible posters, and early-bird freebies that aren't available elsewhere. Limited 35mm screenings of films shot on film stock add another layer of appeal for cinephiles. These unique draws create a sense of occasion that can't be replicated in a living room. In the middle of this cinematic tug-of-war lies the hybrid audience: those who stream casually but reserve cinema trips for the "worth it" titles. These are the folks who'll watch comedies and rom-coms on streaming platforms but head to the cinema for the next Christopher Nolan spectacle or a Marvel finale. The pros and cons of both are clear. Cinemas offer unmatched atmosphere, communal energy, and that spine-tingling moment when the opening scene begins. Streaming offers accessibility, control, and affordability. Rather than declaring victory for either side, perhaps the real winner is choice itself. Young Malaysians can now tailor their movie experiences to match their moods, budgets, and social preferences. And as long as there are friends to laugh with and the occasional plot twist that demands to be seen on the big screen, there'll always be a place for both.
Sinar Daily
5 days ago
- Politics
- Sinar Daily
Amira Aisya tells Malaysian youths that 'protesting is a legacy, not a crime'
SHAH ALAM – Acting Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) President and Puteri Wangsa assemblyman Amira Aisya Abdul Aziz has a powerful message for Malaysia's youth: protesting is not a crime - it is a legacy. In an exclusive interview with Sinar Daily on Top News Live podcast, she urged young Malaysians not to back down in the face of criticism or intimidation when standing up for justice, democracy and accountability. "The movement towards independence in Malaysia was through street protest. 'Without the courage of those who marched and spoke out before us, we wouldn't have the freedoms we enjoy today," she said. 'Don't Let Them Tell You It's Wrong' Amira was addressing the backlash often faced by young protesters in Malaysia, particularly students who take to the streets to voice dissatisfaction with government policies, corruption or inequality. 'People say protest is rude. That it doesn't bring any real results. But without these so-called 'rude' actions, Malaysia wouldn't even be a free nation today. 'What the youth are doing is not wrong. It is their constitutional right to express their discontent peacefully," she said. Amira also had a pointed message for critics: you can disagree with protesters but do it with respect. 'You can disagree. That is your right. But be mindful and respectful when you do. Understand that these young people are standing up for something bigger than themselves and that takes courage," she added. 'I Was You Once' Speaking from personal experience, Amira shared how her own political awakening was sparked by witnessing student protests in her younger years. 'When I was younger, I saw people standing up against injustice and I told myself, 'I want to do that too.' That's how I found my voice," she said. Amira believes that even if protests don't change the world overnight, they sow seeds, sometimes in the hearts of complete strangers. 'Even if you can't inspire all Malaysians, if what you're doing manages to change the mindset of just one person, then you've already fulfilled your duty as a Malaysian". 'Don't Bow Down to Pressure' To students and young activists facing threats or harassment, Amira had this to say: 'Do not bow down to pressure. Don't let them scare you into silence. If they threaten you, remember: it is your right to assemble. It is your right to speak. It is your right to demand better.' She praised the younger generation for their resilience and bravery in pushing back against corruption and injustice, often at great personal risk. 'Your bravery will give birth to more bravery. People are watching. People are being inspired. Your voice is louder than you think," she said. A New Generation of Change-Makers As Malaysia continues to grapple with political uncertainty and calls for reform, Amira sees the youth as not just the future but the present. 'The fight doesn't belong only to politicians. It belongs to every Malaysian who refuses to stay silent,' she said. In her eyes, every poster held up, every chant shouted and every uncomfortable question asked is part of building a better nation. 'If you're young and angry at the way things are, that's good. Speak. March. Question. Because your voice matters. And change has never started quietly". Malaysia's right to peaceful assembly, she said, was enshrined in the Federal Constitution under Article 10. Despite this, youth-led protests often face public scrutiny, legal threats and intimidation. Amira reminds the people that protesting was not a disruption of democracy, but the heartbeat of one.
Sinar Daily
5 days ago
- Politics
- Sinar Daily
'I use my own salary to fund my office' - Muda's Amira Aisya slams unequal constituency allocations
SHAH ALAM – Acting Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) President and Puteri Wangsa assemblyman Amira Aisya Abd Aziz has raised alarm over the deep financial strain faced by elected representatives, especially those in the opposition, due to what she describes as an 'unjust and outdated' system of constituency allocations. In a candid interview on Sinar Daily's Top News Live podcast, she revealed that she has had to dig into her personal salary just to keep her constituency office running. 'I have to use my own gaji (salary) to buy some of my stuff and figure out other ways to fund my office. And this is not just me, this is many other politicians out there,' she said. Amira, who represents one of the largest state constituencies in Johor with over 120,000 voters, said the RM200,000 annual allocation she receives was grossly inadequate. By comparison, she pointed out that state assemblymen in smaller constituencies with as few as 18,000 voters receive the same amount. 'My state seat is bigger than some parliamentary seats. So how is it fair that I get the same funding as someone with a fraction of my voters?' she said. Amira Aisya during Sinar Daily's Top News Live episode. Amira painted a picture of overstretched offices with underpaid staff who are expected to be on-call at all hours, often fielding emergency requests from constituents late into the night. 'They deserve to be properly compensated for the work they do. Just because we love our job and serve willingly, doesn't mean our staff should suffer. People come in with real issues and we want to help but we're scraping just to keep the lights on," she said. Amira acknowledged the resourceful methods some Member of Parliaments have used to fundraise, citing Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman as a prime example. 'Saddiq has always been very creative in how he fundraises. Many of us, especially younger politicians, see that as inspiring. But not all of us have the talent or the looks to be influencers,' she quipped. What frustrates Amira most, however, was not just the limited funding but the politicisation of those funds. She expressed deep concern over how constituency allocations were often dangled as political bargaining chips, especially when opposition representatives were excluded from receiving full support. 'Let's be clear, this allocation is not for us, it's for the rakyat (citizen). 'We're not angry about being sidelined personally. But when the people in our constituencies suffer because of political games, that's when it becomes unacceptable.' She said those in power were weaponising allocations to pressure elected representatives into toeing certain political lines. 'If you want support, then you dangle the allocation. That's not fair. This is supposed to be about governance, not manipulation,' she said. Amira Aisya talking to her constituents. (Photo from Pusat Khidmat Puteri Wangsa) Amira urged the federal and state governments to immediately review how constituency funds are distributed, calling for allocations that reflect the actual population size and needs of each area. 'It's time we rethink the formula. Representation should be equitable. Constituencies with larger populations obviously require more resources to operate efficiently,' she said. Until then, Amira said she and others in her position will continue to do the best they can with the little they have, even if it means funding public service out of their own pockets. 'We didn't come into politics for glamour. But it's exhausting to constantly have to choose between helping people and surviving the system.' Under the current allocation model, both government and opposition representatives receive the same base funding but the ruling party often receives additional support via federal or state channels. This has led to accusations of politically motivated funding disparities across the country. Fellow comrade and Muda co-founder Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman has been vocal about the unfair allocation, which, according to him, has "forced" him to enter the world of "influencer" - becoming a brand ambassador, as a strategy to fund his constituency, Muar. The former youth and sports minister had previously criticised the government for unequal distribution of parliamentary funds, stating that government MPs received RM4 million each while opposition MPs like himself received none. Syed Saddiq has been collaborating with singer and actress Bella Astillah on various campaigns starting as models for traditional Malay fashion apparel for Hari Raya this year, which has catapulted his popularity and has improved his image among the mass. Amira jokingly said "Not everyone has the look to be a model to fund their constituency" but she was definitely open to the idea and welcomed any brands that wanted to collaborate with her.
Borneo Post
23-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Statos partners with HalalTrip to promote Muslim-friendly travel experiences in Sarawak
Amira (centre) receives her prize from HalalTrip & CrescentRating strategic, partnerships and projects head Raudha Zaini. Also seen is Putrie. KUCHING (July 23): The Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (Statos) recently showcased Sarawak's growing appeal as a Muslim-friendly destination by partnering with HalalTrip for its inaugural Content Creator Tank in Singapore. In a press release, Statos said the event was a key component of the Halal In Travel Global Summit 2025, which aimed to redefine the global Muslim travel market. As one of three destination partners, Statos also participated in reviewing shortlisted content creators who pitched original ideas to promote Muslim-friendly travel experiences. Nurul Amira Rahmat, a content creator known as @asingaporeanabroad with over 120,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok, was selected to represent Sarawak. Amira, also a cabin crew member, impressed the judges with a traditional Sarawak dance during her pitch and shared her personal experience visiting Mulu National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site, highlighting her genuine connection to Sarawak. As the winning content creator, Amira will undertake an all-expenses-paid trip to Sarawak to produce content highlighting halal-certified cuisine, Muslim-friendly accommodations, prayer facilities, and culturally immersive tourism products. Statos deputy chief executive officer Putrie Rozana Soraya, also a judge on the panel, praised Amira's presentation as thoughtful, creative, and culturally respectful, which strongly aligned with Sarawak's values. Putrie added that it was an honour for Sarawak to be featured alongside global destinations such as Spain and Hong Kong. 'This platform has allowed us to show the world that Sarawak is ready, relevant, and rich in authentic experiences for Muslim travellers,' she said in the press release. Beyond halal travel, Statos is also fostering collaborations with academic institutions in Singapore and Sarawak, focusing on overseas learning programmes, educational exchanges, and talks to strengthen mutual understanding and professional development. Additionally, Statos is actively partnering with travel agencies in Singapore to co-create packages and marketing campaigns showcasing Sarawak's diverse tourism offerings. According to Statos, this initiative comes amid a growing trend of Singaporean Muslim tourists visiting Sarawak. To further support this, Statos and Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) have jointly organised familiarisation (FAM) trips for media and travel agents, showcasing Sarawak's halal offerings, from food and worship facilities to culturally immersive tourism products. Local travel agency managing director Ruzaiman Ghazalee said there has been a steady rise in Singaporean Muslim tourists visiting Sarawak, especially in 2024 and 2025. He said his travel agency witnessed significant demand for halal-certified dining, prayer facilities, and Muslim-friendly accommodation. 'Statos has focused its efforts directly in Singapore, while STB (Sarawak Tourism Board) drives global market strategy. Together, these coordinated efforts are positioning Sarawak as a top-tier halal tourism destination,' he said. Meanwhile, Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts permanent secretary Datu Sherrina Hussaini said Sarawak's strength lies in its diversity and authenticity. 'We believe Muslim-friendly tourism is not just a trend, but a long-term opportunity to showcase our hospitality, heritage, and inclusivity,' she said. She commended Statos and STB for championing this space and fostering meaningful engagement with partners like HalalTrip to bring Sarawak to international audiences. lead Muslim-friendly Statos
