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New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
1st phase of integrated immigration system to be ready by year-end
KUALA LUMPUR: The first phase of the National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe), which is equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology, will be implemented by the end of the year. Immigration Department director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said it includes an Advanced Passenger Screening System (APSS), which is capable of assessing passenger profiles from their country of origin, including criminal history and visa status before they arrive in Malaysia. He said three command centres, capable of monitoring all immigration-related activities in real time using AI, would also be established in Putrajaya, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. "As the system will integrate with other agencies, we will be able to monitor movements into the country more effectively, including at entry points and depots, as well as during enforcement actions on the ground. "For example, if our officers are unable to determine a person's whereabouts, the command centre will assist them," he said during a visit to Media Prima Bhd today. On a separate matter, he said the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) initiative was currently at the system procurement stage. He said the department has the data on all refugees at its depots, which could be included in the registry once the system is ready. Earlier, during an interview for the MHI, he said NIISe, which is based on AI and smart data integration, would enhance entry points with an autogate system that processes each traveller in just "three to four seconds". In addition, the use of body cameras and AI-powered smart CCTVs enables real-time behavioural analysis, including detecting unusual interactions between travellers and officers, or potential abuse of power, he said. He also said the department is employing chatbots and interactive automation to handle visa applications and travel document services. "Digital systems such as MyVisa, eVisa, ePass, MyOnline Passport, MYXpats and others now incorporate automation elements that pave the way for AI integration." Among the Media Prima leadership present were Media Prima Omnia chief operating officer Datuk Mohd Efendi Omar; Media Prima Television Networks group editor for News and Current Affairs (NCA) Azhari Muhidin; Media Prima Bhd group chief financial officer Rosli Sabarudin; and Media Prima Television Networks and Primeworks Studios chief executive officer Nini Yusof.
New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Illegal immigrants to be deported within 10 days
KUALA LUMPUR: The Immigration Department has set a 10-day deadline to deport illegal immigrants, in efforts to address overcrowding at its depots nationwide. Department director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said 80 per cent of them had been deported within that timeframe. "Exemptions apply to those with documentation issues. "I've set a KPI (key performance index) for all immigration depots – 10 days for documentation processing and deportation of illegal immigrants," he said during a visit to Media Prima Bhd today. He said this was to ensure the depots operating within the capacity, following ongoing aggressive enforcement actions. He said the department was operating with a 20 to 30 per cent vacancy rate and ensured the figure remained within that range. Meanwhile, the first phase of the National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe), equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology, is expected to be implemented by the end of next year. He said three command centres would be set up in the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak, namely in Putrajaya, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. "As the system will integrate with other agencies, we will be able to monitor movements into the country more effectively, including at entry points and depots, as well as during enforcement actions on the ground. "For example, if our officers are unable to determine a person's whereabouts, the command centre will assist them," he said. During an interview for the MHI TV programme earlier, he said NIISe, which is based on AI and smart data integration, would see enhancement at entry points with autogate system and advanced passenger screening system that is capable of assessing passenger profiles from their country of origin, including criminal history, visa status, and more, before they arrive in Malaysia. In addition, the use of body cameras and smart CCTV with AI enables real-time behavioural analysis, for example, detecting unusual interactions between travellers and officers, or potential abuse of power, he said. He said the use of chatbots and interactive automation for handling visa applications and travel document services. On the department's 103rd anniversary celebration, he said the public would be able to access its services at its booths during the department's open day and meet-the-customers day, apart from at regular immigration counters. Services such as passport renewals and relevant documentation will be available at these booths on July 21 and 22, he said. Among the Media Prima leadership present were Media Prima Omnia chief operating officer Datuk Mohd Efendi Omar; Media Prima Television Networks group editor for News and Current Affairs (NCA) Azhari Muhidin; Media Prima Bhd group chief financial officer Rosli Sabarudin; and Media Prima Television Networks and Primeworks Studios chief executive officer Nini Yusof.
New Straits Times
11-06-2025
- Health
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: 8TV's Project Love Fund channels nearly RM200k to 24 underprivileged Malaysians
KUALA LUMPUR: Chua Xiu Yi, 11, is finally able to jump for joy. Her treatment for the rare genetic disorder, Prader-Willi Syndrome, which affects only 1 in 15,000 people globally, is now under control. Her mother, Phoon Suet Chen, 49, explained that Xiu Yi, the youngest of her three children, was diagnosed with the illness at the age of two and required growth hormone treatment. "She used to be a very weak baby, and as she grew bigger, she began to feel hungry very often," said Phoon, whose family hails from Klang. Specialists at the University Malaya Medical Centre treated Xiu Yi two years ago, leading to a "considerable improvement" in her condition. "Xiu Yi also suffered from heart and lung problems as a result of her disorder," Phoon added. "The medicine gradually worked for her, and today she keeps herself focused and fit with Zumba lessons, which she absolutely loves." Meanwhile, Nor Alia Abdullah, 39, who assists her husband in selling cotton candy in the city, has been patiently caring for her four children, all born with heart disease. Her children — Adam Ali, 12, Salwa Ali, 9, Alia Damia, 6, and Husna, 2 — are now on the mend, having received the best medical care for their conditions. "Adam even underwent surgery at Gleneagles Hospital last year; he's a lot fitter and more energetic today," said Nor Alia, whose husband also suffers from cataracts. "Salwa will have surgery next month, and I'm optimistic it will do her good." Xiu Yi and Nor Alia's children are among 24 families who have benefited from the second season of 8TV Jasmine Project Love Season 2, which recently concluded its heartwarming journey. This initiative brings together Malaysians in need of medical help with various charitable organisations. It highlights the plight of the less fortunate, and its weekly human interest stories have moved viewers nationwide since last year. Media Prima Television Networks and Primeworks Studios Chief Executive Officer, Nini Yusof, said that Jasmine Project Love Season 2 had once again highlighted the incredible strength of community support. She noted that the 8TV Project Love Fund, an initiative under the Media Prima-NSTP Humanitarian Fund, successfully garnered nearly RM200,000 in public donations, which went directly to aid the 24 families in need. "This provided much-needed relief to many families featured in the programme, with each beneficiary receiving RM8,000 for a total disbursement of RM192,000," Nini announced at a special luncheon held today at Holiday Inn Kuala Lumpur Bangsar By IHG, marking the conclusion of the programme's second season. Nini further commented, "This popular documentary continues to connect with a broad audience, including younger Malaysians, underscoring the timeless power of storytelling across generations. As in the first season, our action-oriented co-hosts once again journeyed across the country to reveal deeply human stories reflecting the complexities of everyday life." She mentioned that the co-hosts — Owen Yap, Chan Wei Wei, Desmond Tey, Tan Chia Yong, Ong Ching Yee, Jan Chin, Soh Chin Chuan, and Charlotte Seow — expanded the programme's reach beyond the Klang Valley, visiting communities in Negri Sembilan, Perak, and Melaka. "From children battling rare diseases to families facing hardships, the programme highlighted real stories, inspiring empathy and support amongst viewers," she said. The luncheon was also attended by Media Prima Berhad Group Chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Syed Hussian Aljunid; Media Prima Berhad Group Managing Director, Rafiq Razali; Media Prima Berhad Group Chief Financial Officer, Rosli Sabarudin; and Big Tree and Media Prima Omnia Chief Operating Officer, Agency Solutions, Stephanie Wong. Other distinguished guests included Media Prima Television Networks Director, Sales Partnership, Crystal Lee; 8TV Film and Content Distribution Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Foo; Jasmine Food Chief Financial Officer, Alan Kwong; and Kawan Food Senior Marketing Manager, Aster Tan. Syed Hussian presented certificates to several charitable organisations that played a vital role in supporting the programme's outreach. These included the National Kidney Foundation Malaysia, Cleft Lips and Palate Association of Malaysia, Suriana Welfare Society Malaysia, Beacon Life Training Centre, National Stroke Association of Malaysia, Prader-Willi Syndrome Association Malaysia, Kelab Kebun Komuniti Anak Istimewa P3KU, Persatuan Kebajikan Talian Hayat Kehidupan Malaysia, Persatuan Penyakit Motor Neuron Malaysia, and Persatuan Amal Indah. "We are truly grateful for the overwhelming response to 8TV Jasmine Project Love," Nini said. "This programme not only shares heartfelt and inspiring stories but also fosters empathy and awareness amongst viewers about the real challenges faced by families in need. "Our sincere thanks go to Jasmine Food as the main sponsor and Kawan Food as co-sponsor for believing in our mission. "We hope this programme will continue to spark greater support and compassion within our community." Kwong concluded, "We are honoured to continue this meaningful collaboration with 8TV, which witnesses the positive impact on so many families. When businesses, organisations, and communities work together, we can achieve greater impact in the long term."
New Straits Times
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: RM40.6mil in 13 days: 'Ejen Ali' sequel is highest-grossing local animated film
KUALA LUMPUR: Popular local animated film 'Ejen Ali The Movie 2' (EATM2) has achieved a remarkable box office collection of RM40.6 million, making it the country's highest-grossing animated film to date. Produced by Primeworks Studios and Wau Animation, EATM2 has surpassed the previous record holder, Mechamato Movie, which garnered RM35.9 million at the box office in 2022. In a statement yesterday, the film's director, Usamah Zaid Yasin, attributed this success to the enduring appeal of local animated movies among viewers. "EATM2 builds upon the legacy of 'Ejen Ali The Movie' on a grander scale, establishing itself as a must-see for the entire family," he said. "Our production team extends its gratitude to over 2.5 million viewers for their unwavering support. "This triumph is not just ours, but a victory for the entire local animation industry. Thank you, Malaysia, for believing in our own stories." Media Prima Television Networks and Primeworks Studios chief executive officer, Nini Yusof, commented, "With this momentum, EATM2 continues to pave the way for local animated films to penetrate the international market." EATM2 follows 12-year-old superspy Ejen Ali as he confronts a phantom menace named Ciro, utilising more advanced espionage technology than ever before. Ali becomes the pilot for a high-stakes mission within Satria, an elite programme powered by an AI-assisted mecha suit. The mission takes a darker turn when the mysterious hacker Neonimus resurfaces, driven by a personal vendetta against Ali. Compared to the 2019 original, 'Ejen Ali The Movie', this sequel boasts more explosive action and a deeper, more immersive narrative.
New Straits Times
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
Ejen Ali takes over KL streets, sparks buzz ahead of movie sequel
KUALA LUMPUR: Beloved animated character Ejen Ali delighted fans with a surprise appearance during KL Car Free Day this morning, drawing an enthusiastic crowd in what turned out to be a cleverly executed social media stunt. The unexpected sight of the Ejen Ali mascot strolling through the city streets quickly became the highlight of the event, with people of all ages rushing to snap photos and interact with the character. Excitement filled the air as fans warmly welcomed the iconic figure, many expressing eager anticipation for the highly awaited sequel, Ejen Ali The Movie 2, which is set to hit cinemas on May 22. Primeworks Studios and Media Prima Television Networks (MPTN), the creative forces behind the franchise, said the overwhelmingly positive response — both on the ground and across social media — had significantly boosted momentum in the lead-up to the film's release. "The crowd's reaction was incredible... the content generated strong engagement online and even gave the impression that the event was entirely organised by us, which ultimately benefits the film's promotional efforts," the studios said in a statement. The original Ejen Ali film attracted over 2.5 million viewers nationwide, and its creators are hopeful that the sequel will exceed this impressive milestone. Carrying the tagline "Aksi Animasi Mempesona, Meledakkan Emosi", the sequel promises an emotionally charged cinematic experience packed with action. More promotional activities involving fans are in the pipeline, with updates to be shared via the social media channels of Primeworks Studios, TV3 Malaysia, and Ejen Ali.
