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New Straits Times
8 hours ago
- New Straits Times
NST photographer among five Malaysians at Batam photo event
KOTA KINABALU: Five photographers from Sabah and Sarawak, including New Straits Times Press (NSTP) freelancer Lano Lan, took part in the Kepri Photo Community Gathering 2025 held in Indonesia. Others included Tawau-based photographer Muslianshah Masri, freelance photojournalist Herry Naha, and landscape photographer Bani Hasyim, among others. The regional event, held from July 14 to 16, drew over 100 photographers from across Southeast Asia. Supported by Kepulauan Riau (Kepri) Governor Ansar Ahmad, it showcased the province's tourism appeal through photography. Participants visited Batam city, Pulau Belakang Padang and nearby islands, capturing daily life, cultural landmarks, and natural scenery. Among the highlighted sites were Vihara Budhi Bhakti, Masjid Muhammad Cheng Hoo, Masjid Agung Batam and Jembatan Barelang. Lano's work included shots of schoolchildren commuting by boat, villagers at kopitiams, and fishermen at dawn. The event ended with a gala attended by Deputy Governor Nyanyang Haris Pratamura, who praised the effort to strengthen regional ties. Lano, 50, from Kiulu, also visited Penyengat island, known for its historical significance as the seat of the Riau-Lingga Sultanate and birthplace of Raja Ali Haji. "It was a journey of stories, poetry, and Malay pride," said Lano, a contributor to NSTP for over a decade. The event, first held in 2024, is part of Kepri's strategy to develop itself as an Asean cultural and photo tourism hub.
New Straits Times
4 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Hamzah hints at possible no-confidence motion against Anwar
KUALA LUMPUR: Opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin has teased the possibility of tabling a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim soon. "It's okay. Wait. We will do (table) it later. Why would we reveal it now?" He said this when approached at the Pas-led rally today by New Straits Times Press reporters. When asked if discussions on the matter had been made, Hamzah gave a wink. Anwar had previously said the unity government would not block any vote of confidence in Parliament, amid calls from the opposition for him to step down.
New Straits Times
18-06-2025
- Health
- New Straits Times
Media Prima celebrates staff transformation in Weight Loss Challenge 2025
KUALA LUMPUR: Media Prima Berhad (MPB) celebrated the health achievements of its staff today at the prize-giving ceremony for the MPB Weight Loss Challenge 2025 in Balai Berita Bangsar. The three-month programme, held from Jan 14 to April 14, saw 126 employees from various departments and subsidiaries take part in the wellness initiative, aimed at encouraging healthier lifestyles and building a resilient, energetic workforce. In the male category, Aidi Shamsuddin from the New Straits Times Press (NSTP) emerged as the top winner after shedding 22kg, earning the RM2,000 grand prize, followed by Mohd Shawal Ismail (21.5kg) and Azizulhelmy Mohamad (20.3kg). "It was tough, especially during Hari Raya. I had to control my eating even then, but I managed to reach my target. "I exercised, did strength training, cardio, and watched my diet by increasing protein and cutting carbohydrates," said Aidi. Meanwhile, in the female category, Laila Mohd Zain from the REV Media Group secured first place after losing 16.7kg, followed by Nurul Akmar Razehan Abd Aziz came in second (14.5kg) and Nur Aiza Abd Mutalib third (11.8kg). "The most difficult challenge was the lifestyle change and staying consistent. "It's easy in the first few weeks when you're still excited, but after a month or two, it becomes harder. "Still, my friends and family were really supportive, and that helped me stay motivated," said Laila. Participants were evaluated based on achieving at least a 10 per cent reduction in their starting weight, with the top five in each category receiving cash prizes ranging from RM500 to RM2,000. Mini challenges were also conducted every three weeks between January and March, offering RM200 prizes to the male and female participants who recorded the highest percentage of weight loss in each round. Also present was MPB group chairman Datuk Seri Syed Hussian Aljunid who handed out the prizes to the winners. Programme advisor Dr Rohaya Ramli reminded participants of the bigger picture behind the challenge. "Since 2023, more than half of our population falls into the obesity category. "This is alarming, as obesity is the root cause of many chronic illnesses, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. "Consistency is key. Health is not a sprint, it's a marathon. Small, steady changes can lead to major improvements over time," said Dr Rohaya. MPB Human Resources Department adviser Nor Arzlin and Dr Rohaya were also recognised for their guidance, encouragement and support throughout the challenge. This challenge marks the sixth time it has been held since 2010 to promote a healthier lifestyle to MPB staff.
New Straits Times
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
Jom Heboh finale draws huge crowds with star-studded appearances, family activities
KUALA LUMPUR: The final day of Karnival Jom Heboh (KJH) here drew large crowds, bringing vibrant energy to the venue with a host of family-oriented activities, interactive games, and appearances by popular local artistes. Among the main attractions at KL Base in Sungai Besi was the New Straits Times Press (NSTP) booth, which featured a car racing simulator and offered exciting prizes. Organised by Media Prima Bhd, the carnival showcased a range of engaging programmes, including performances by renowned artistes, exhibition booths from 150 local brands, and community awareness campaigns. Fauzi Pasilon, 52, from Morib, brought along his children, who were thrilled to try out the various age-appropriate games. "I often play go-kart, and when I saw the Gran Turismo simulator at the NSTP booth, I was immediately interested in giving it a go. "It was a satisfying experience handling the simulator, and the kids had a great time too," he said. Zeity Akhtar Zaharin, 41, from Setapak, expressed her delight at spending quality time with her husband and their four children. "Since it's the school holidays, we took the opportunity to let the kids unwind and explore the many games on offer at the carnival. "They were excited to win prizes, the food was delicious, and the highlight for them was meeting Malaysia's beloved singer, Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza," she said. NSTP volunteer Rasyidah Alzawariah Raub said the booth received an overwhelming response, especially from families. "The car simulation game was one of the most popular attractions, drawing participants from children to senior citizens. "We also distributed free copies of Berita Harian, Harian Metro, and the New Straits Times. Many visitors appreciated this, especially those who still enjoy reading physical newspapers," she said. Meanwhile, NSTP Finance Department Credit Control executive Nur Syakirah Jaffree said this edition of the carnival was among the most successful in terms of sales and visitor numbers. "The family-friendly theme was clearly evident. Parents truly enjoyed spending time playing with their children. "The spacious parking area and the RM20 fee for a whole family to enjoy the video games made it all worthwhile," she added. From: Fuad
New Straits Times
01-06-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
PM makes surprise visit to MCF Chess event for grandson
KUALA LUMPUR: Amid a packed schedule, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today made a brief but meaningful stop to support his grandson, Sulaimaan Mohamad Khairul, at the Mini Chess Festival (MCF), held in conjunction with the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair. The thirteen-year-old Sulaimaan is competing in the inaugural MCF, organised by the Malaysian Chess Federation (MCF) and the New Straits Times Press (NSTP), at the World Trade Centre (WTC). He is taking part in the Under-18 category of the MCF Open Rapid Team Chess Tournament. Upon arrival, Anwar was welcomed by NSTP Business Development and Special Projects Manager Tengku Kaifi Mirza Tuan Cherit and Berita Harian News Editor (Features and Religion) Nazmi Yaakub. The prime minister, who spent around 10 minutes at the venue, was also seen engaging warmly with participants and spectators. His presence sparked excitement among the young chess players, many of whom took the opportunity to greet him and snap quick photos. Sulaimaan, when met, said he joined the competition organised by NSTP and MCF with the aim of winning it. The eldest of four said he learned how to play chess at the KL Chess Academy in 2020. "Every year, I also take part in chess tournaments," he said. Sulaimaan's father, Mohamad Khairul Ahmad Jahudi, 45, said he was proud and happy with his son's achievement in participating in the chess competition. He said he also wanted his son to build character and experience the ups and downs of competing. "The highs and lows, the wins and losses are valuable experiences he can carry with him in life," he said. Speaking to NSTP reporters later, Tengku Kaifi said Anwar's visit was a meaningful gesture that affirmed NSTP and MCF's efforts in promoting educational and intellectual development among youth through chess. "Chess enhances strategic thinking and problem-solving skills and is a healthy form of competition that has a positive impact on students. "As such, we feel excited, appreciated and encouraged that what we are trying to promote to the public has been acknowledged by the prime minister himself. "It shows that he (Anwar) also supports efforts by the wider community to educate students and further strengthen their thinking skills through learning chess," he said. With four categories, children, adults, open, and team tournament, MCF has attracted more than 200 chess enthusiasts of all ages, offering a total prize pool of RM20,000. The festival, held from May 28 to June 1, involves different tournaments, including the Open Blitz, National Youth Blitz, Open Rapid Team, National Youth Rapid, and Open Rapid. Meanwhile, before visiting the tournament, Anwar also stopped by the NSTP booth at the book fair, where a selection of NSTP publications, New Straits Times, Berita Harian, and Harian Metro, was available to visitors.
