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The Star
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Artist celebrates 40-year journey at solo exhibition in KL
Ng with 'Desert Storm. — Photos: ONG SOON HIN/The Star Ng Foo Cheong is a versatile artist, as can be seen through his many works currently on display at a solo exhibition in Kuala Lumpur. His paintings, ceramics, sculptures and installations can be viewed at the exhibition titled 'Tempering' at Dasein Academy of Art in Jalan Kelang Lama. Ng told StarMetro that each work had an intended message and perspective. 'I always make sure that no two works are the same.' Having delved into art since he was 18, Ng, now 60, said he had never worked for others as having a full-time job would have 'killed' his artistic soul. 'I had a part-time job to support my full-time art hobby. Art lovers attending the launch of 'Tempering' exhibition in Kuala Lumpur, which runs until Aug 2. — Photos: ONG SOON HIN/The Star 'I used to design T-shirts and put them up for sale at Central Market so that I could earn money to support my art career,' he said during the opening of the exhibition. To broaden his horizons, Ng also spent time travelling. 'I travelled for one year to several countries, and my visit to New Delhi in India, gave me a lot of inspiration. 'There was an evening where I saw people, all wearing sarees, gathering on a beach. 'Some of them hung up their wet sarees to be dried, making the beach even more colourful. 'That trip established the direction of my art career and started me on my journey into two-dimensional art.' Ng said he often experienced strong feelings when he did socially conscious artworks. One of them is the mixed-media piece titled Where is My Hanging Gardens of Babylon?. 'The painting was inspired by the Iraq War in 2003. The artist's ceramic bowls with 'tenmoku glaze'. — Photos: ONG SOON HIN/The Star 'I cut out newspaper reports on the war to produce it. 'The US had deployed dolphins to search for underwater mines and one of them reportedly went missing. 'It made me question why humans still engage in war when even animals leave it behind to find peace.' Another message he wished to convey: 'No matter how beautiful a structure, it could be destroyed by greed and cruelty.' Similar messages are reflected in two other artworks – Desert Storm and Yellow Force. Desert Storm depicts broken families in Gaza, Palestine, while Yellow Force was inspired by Bersih 2.0, a movement to reform the electoral system. Ceramics are also a big part of Ng's portfolio, although he stopped making them once he started delving into two-dimensional art. He picked it up again after a 25-year break during the Covid-19 movement control order, when access to his art studio was restricted. 'I dug outside my house and collected raw materials such as coconut husks as well as the bark of various trees, including mango, acacia, oil palm and avocado, to produce my own clay. 'I wanted to incorporate the tenmoku glaze, which originated from the Song dynasty, into my ceramic works.' He highlighted that producing ceramics posed new challenges as there was a lower tolerance for mistakes. 'One small flaw can force me to rework my bowls or sculptures all over again,' he said. On his future plans, Ng said he would continue to follow his heart. 'It is important for artists to listen to their inner voice. 'You will know what to do when the time comes. 'I also hope that my exhibition can inspire future artists,' he added. The exhibition is open until Aug 2 (10am to 5pm on weekdays, 11am to 3pm on weekends) at G-05, Megan Legasi, Millerz Square. For enquiries, call 03-7972 1333.
The Star
6 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Strong sales momentum underpins Nestle Malaysia's higher bottomline in 2Q
Juan Aranols, CEO of Nestlé Malaysia —ONG SOON HIN /The Star Reporter Kiren KUALA LUMPUR: Nestle (Malaysia) Bhd has made good on its earlier guidance that it would return to healthy growth by the first half of 2025. In the second quarter ended June 30, 2025 (2QFY25), the food and beverage firm posted a net profit of RM112.11mil, up from RM93.6mil in the same quarter in 2024. Earnings per share rose to 47.81 sen from 39.91 sen in the comparative quarter. The group reported revenue of RM1.67bil, improved from RM1.52bil in 2QFY24, with strong sales momentum across brands and further sales progress following the festive campaigns in the preceding quarter. Nestle Malaysia CEO Juan Aranols attributed the positive performance to the company's ability to manage margins amid sustained volatility in commodity prices through the systematic application of the 'Nestlé Virtuous Circle' framework. He explained the approach as a relentless focus on efficiency and cost optimisation to fund brand investments that drive growth and market share gains. "Amidst market volatility and intense competition, we continued to drive strong brand plans with effective execution across all sales channels," he said. "We remain committed to continue honouring the trust Malaysians place in our brands and products, always Halal-certified and proudly made in Malaysia, by Malaysians and for Malaysians." Moving forward, Aranols said the group remains confident in the second half of 2025 as it drives solid momentum and profit recovery through the coming quarters. "We are mindful and vigilant of the geopolitical uncertainties that may impact the business environment in Malaysia," he added. During the six months period to June 30, 2025, Nestle's net profit slipped to RM273.45mil from RM289.11mil in 1HFY24, while revenue was higher at RM3.44bil from RM3.31bil in the same period in 2024. The board of directors declared an interim dividend of 70 sen with an entitlement date of Sept 3, 2025, and payment date on Oct 2, 2025.
The Star
13-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Jinjang Selatan Tambahan owners lodge reports over inadequate compensation
Jinjang Selatan Tambahan settlers waiting to lodge reports at the Sentul District Police headquarters. — Photos: ONG SOON HIN/The Star Some 38 residential property and shopowners from Jinjang Selatan Tambahan, Kepong, lodged reports at the Sentul District Police headquarters over what they perceived as unfair treatment by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). These settlers, who have been served demolition notices by City Hall, are demanding higher compensation from a developer before they agree to move out. DBKL had served them demolition notices in May, in line with Section 70 (13)(c) under the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 (Act 133) which states that no person shall erect a building without the prior written consent of the local authority. The settlers have been seeking better terms since a mixed development project – a joint venture between DBKL and a private developer – was announced about a decade ago to relocate them. In 2023, it was reported that shopowners were offered RM5,000 as moving fees as well as RM5,000 vouchers to buy any property priced at RM300,000 and above by the developer. The developer said that although it was unable to offer replacement lots to shopowners, the company had given free houses of 83.61sqm to over 300 residents who had temporary occupation licences (TOL). Those who bought their lots from the original holders were offered the chance to buy 70.6sqm units for RM42,000. Acting as group spokesperson for Jawatankuasa Gabungan Isu Perumahan dan Pampasan, secretary Ameer Khan Bargathalli said that it was not right that those affected were being treated like squatters. He asked DBKL to rescind the demolition order until a better solution could be reached. 'Shopkeepers had been paying assessment taxes from 1969 to 2006, when DBKL stopped renewing our TOL licences. 'This clearly shows that our existence at the beginning was legal and had the approval of the authorities.' In the police report, residents expressed dissatisfaction over the RM5,000 compensation by the developer. Ameer said this it was not adequate, as the land occupied by shops was valued at between RM300,000 and RM400,000 at current property prices. 'We request the assistance of the police to protect our properties until a fair compensation value is achieved,' he said. When asked whether there would be a stay on the demolition notice, DBKL said it would reply at a later date.
The Star
12-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Retailer rings in the future of smartphones with launch of AI-powered foldables
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 (left) and Z Flip7 are bigger, slimmer, lighter and leverage AI. — Photos: ONG SOON HIN /The Star Lau holding the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 (right) and Z Flip7. THE future of mobile technology unfolded at an electronics retailer in a Kuala Lumpur mall where the next generation of smartphones were launched. The event was not just about new phones Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7; it was an immersive dive into the next generation of artificial intelligence (AI) seamlessly integrated into the palm of your hand. The buzz was palpable as tech enthusiasts, media and local influencers gathered for an exclusive first look. Guests were treated to an 'AI-Powered Experience Workshop' led by a Samsung trainer at Harvey Norman's flagship store in Mid Valley Megamall. It showcased how these new devices are bigger, slimmer, lighter and leverage AI for everything from smart photography to enhanced productivity. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 (left) and Z Flip7 are bigger, slimmer and lighter, and leverage AI. Imagine snapping a perfect shot with intelligent scene recognition. Or, having your phone anticipate your needs before you even type them. These are what the Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 offer users. For those eager to get their hands on these foldable marvels, a nationwide pre-order promotion is underway. From now until July 31, customers can pre-order the Galaxy Z Fold7 or Z Flip7 at any Harvey Norman store, or online at and unlock offers worth up to RM1,390. This includes a complimentary double storage upgrade (up to RM600 value) and an exclusive e-voucher worth up to RM390. CIMB cardholders will get an extra treat with rebates of up to RM400. The flagship store pulled out all the stops for its launch celebration. The first 50 customers who pre-order there until July 13 will receive a complimentary gift valued at over RM200, courtesy of Harvey Norman and Samsung. Plus, all pre-order customers at the flagship store will automatically be entered into a lucky draw to win one of 10 Samsung monitors, each valued at RM999. To make these advanced devices even more accessible, Harvey Norman is also offering its flexible instalment payment plan, with up to 60 months at 0% interest. 'The buzzword now is always AI, and the question is – Why AI?' said Harvey Norman Malaysia computers and communications general manager Danny Lau. 'We want everyone to truly experience AI for themselves. 'This immersive workshop is to educate users on how AI can genuinely help with their everyday lives, beyond just chasing the latest phone.' Lau highlighted the practical applications of AI in these new devices. 'Customers are constantly taking so many photos and AI can help compile them, even by date, in one AI channel. 'For me, I read a lot of emails and correspondence, and I personally prefer the Fold7 for its larger screen, perfect for productivity.' He added, 'We find women customers really like the Flip7 to take selfies and for its compact design.' Feedback on previous models was that the screen was like a 'chocolate bar', slim and long, not as user-friendly, explained Lau. 'This time around, Samsung got it right, I feel. 'We've dealt with Samsung mobile devices for a long time and we trust their phones to do well in terms of quality and service. We want people to experience that.' The Galaxy Z Fold7 redefines what a smartphone can do. Its 'Ultra Unfold' design boasts a powerful 200MP main camera with a 44% larger image sensor, promising clarity in every shot. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, the device also features a refined, slimmer and lighter design for enhanced portability. Its wider screen offers an immersive, edge-to-edge viewing experience, making it ideal for both work and play. For those who prioritise compactness without sacrificing functionality, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is the perfect fit. It features a 6.9-inch main display complemented by a 4.1-inch edge-to-edge Infinity Cover Screen. Under the hood, it's powered by the Samsung Exynos 2500 processor and comes with an improved 4,300mAh battery. Its 50MP dual FlexCam is designed for flexibility, creativity and seamless on-the-go use, making it the ultimate pocket-friendly powerhouse.
The Star
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Tea master showcases Malaysia's ‘cha' culture
Thirs-tea for a good cuppa: 'Tea in Malaysia is what I call a second creation,' says Chiu the tea master who has dedicated her life to perfecting this art. — ONG SOON HIN/The Star KUALA LUMPUR: For tea master Chiu Mei Ling, every cup of Chinese tea in the country is a reflection of a unique tradition that blends tea leaves with a distinct Malaysian character. 'Tea in Malaysia is what I call a 'second creation',' says Chiu, a pioneering tea master who has dedicated her life to perfecting this art. 'Though we aren't the originators, our tropical climate and diverse cultural influences have transformed these leaves into a new chapter of tea history,' she said in an interview yesterday. Chiu, 60, explained that Malaysia's climate, though hot and humid, provides a surprisingly ideal environment for tea storage, giving the leaves a mysterious second life. 'The way we store tea here adds unique characteristics that you won't find anywhere else.' In Malaysia, she said the art of tea is more than just a beverage; it's a cultural symphony. 'Our tea culture is a blend of Chinese traditions, enriched by Malay and Indian influences. 'It's a reminder of the beauty that arises from diversity – an art form that continues to evolve, one cup at a time. 'Growing up in such a diverse society, we naturally absorb and adapt to each other's customs, creating something truly unique,' she said. Chiu's journey into tea began over 30 years ago, but it was a transformative trip to Wuyi Mountain in China that ignited her passion. 'Wuyi Mountain was life-changing for me. It was as if I had stepped into an ancient world where tea was more than just a drink – it was a way of life.' Returning to Malaysia, Chiu embarked on a mission to develop her own tea brand, drawing from her rich experiences abroad. She launched her first 'Overseas Chinese Tea Atelier' in 1998. By 2004, she organised an event showcasing graded teas from the 1950s to the 1970s, which today command prices from RM100,000 to several hundred thousand ringgit at auctions. 'Our Malaysian tea culture is not about competing with China, but rather complementing it. 'We respect their traditions while adding our own twist, creating a tea culture and presentation that are uniquely ours.' To a question, Chiu said the Malaysian Gong Fu Cha, or ceremonial tea brewing and presentation, has gained international acclaim, with students successfully competing in global championships. One of Chiu's students bagged the gold champion award in the 1st International Gong Fu Cha Competition in Shenzhen, China in 2018. 'Seeing our students excel on the world stage fills me with pride. 'Their success is a testament to our inclusive culture and adaptability,' she said. Looking ahead, Chiu, who is frequently invited overseas for interchange and collaborations, wants to promote Malaysian tea culture worldwide, and in doing so foster exchanges and build bridges through tea. 'Tea is more than just a drink; it's a connection, a shared experience that transcends borders. 'My dream is for Malaysian tea to be recognised globally, celebrated for its uniqueness and the rich multi-cultural heritage it represents,' she said.
