Latest news with #RM419
The Star
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
The prettiest sheep of all: This beauty contest in Senegal is a woolly affair
The regal creatures are led into the open arena, stamping their groomed hooves as if to acknowledge the cheers, music and fireworks from the crowd of spectators. Their majestic figures embody pride and status, their towering size, prominent muzzle, curved horns and polished skin on full display as night falls. Welcome to one of Senegal's most anticipated beauty pageants – not for humans but for the locally bred Ladoum, the equivalent of a Ferrari among the woolly creatures. The annual contest featured more than a dozen Ladoum, competing in three different categories as adult male, adult female and young/promising. As each sheep is led into the open arena, a panel of judges note down their points based on distinct features like beauty, size, height, horns and body texture for each round. Winners, announced at the end, are rewarded with food and cash prizes. Prive, a 19-month-old Ladoum sheep, knows he's a beauty. This year's Best Male Adult sheep is Prive, one year and seven months old, whose breeder estimated him to be worth more than US$100,000 (RM419,290) in the market. "It feels good to be here, I cherish him so much,' Isaiah Cisse, Prive's breeder said with a wide grin as he massaged the sheep for a successful outing. Unlike the more common sheep eaten and used as sacrifices during Muslim celebrations, the crossbreed Ladoum are mainly seen as a living, breathing symbol of social prestige and luxury bred for years before they are sold. The annual Ladoum beauty pageant attracts many spectators. Widely known as one of the world's most expensive sheep, the older ones usually fetch a price of US$70,000 (RM293,528), compared to US$250 (RM1,048) for a regular sheep, and attract buyers from around the world to this West African nation of 18 million people, where livestock is a key source of livelihood. Mostly weighing up to 180kg and up to 1.2m in height, the Ladoum are known for their physical grandeur with curling and symmetrical horns and lustrous sheen. As the contest unfolded in Senegal's capital, Dakar, each sheep is announced before it is led by the breeder onto an elevated stage where it is inspected by the judges, to the elation of the crowd. Ladoum sheep waiting to be judged. Each receives joyful chants from a band troupe, featuring the local Senegalese instrumental Assiko music with the sheep's praise names ringing out aloud. "You can't see a sheep like this in Africa or even in the world,' said Elhadji Ndiaye, a member of the judging panel. "Ladoum is special.'Many agree with him. Musa Faye, a 22-year-old breeder, said his 18-month-old sheep was named Diomaye, after Senegalese president Bassirou Diomaye Faye, to show the sheep's significance for him and his family. "I spend a lot of time with him and play with him,' Faye said of his sheep. "I am preparing him for the next competition because I know he will win (the trophy),' he added. The contest, which has been running for some years, took place alongside an exhibition that featured even young breeders like Ibrahim Diagne. At 12, he is anticipating bringing his Ladoum for the contest someday. "My parents like this and have always done it, so I like it too,' Diagne said of his passion for the family's sheep rearing business. Such passion is common in Senegal where sheep rearing is an age-old tradition deeply woven into family life and culture. Even animal traditions are passed down through the generations. Maniane Ndaw's prized sheep Alou won this year's Best Junior Male, following in the footsteps of the sheep's father who won several titles. "For me, it's a great, great pleasure," Ndaw said. "It shows that the lineage is a good one.' – AP
The Sun
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Malaysia strengthens position as regional filming hub through FIMI
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia continues to cement its status as a leading regional hub for film production, successfully attracting foreign creative investments through the Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI), which is creating jobs and upskilling the local workforce. National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) chief executive officer Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib revealed that among the latest international productions to benefit from FIMI is the upcoming television series Lord of the Flies, produced by Sony Pictures and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The series was filmed in Langkawi, Kedah, at the end of last year. 'The production brought in more than 30 child actors from overseas, accompanied by parents and tutors, and rented a major hotel in Langkawi for nearly five months. 'In accordance with FIMI's requirements, the production also employed a significant number of local crew members,' he told Bernama in a recent interview. He said the initiative was made possible through a partnership between FINAS and the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), which provided basic film production courses to workers from the tourism sector. To further enhance local participation, Azmir announced that, starting next year, the minimum quota for local crew involvement in foreign productions will increase from 30 to 40 per cent. 'This move will not only create more job opportunities for Malaysians, but also accelerate skills development by exposing local talent to international production standards,' he remarked. Since the introduction of FIMI in 2013, a total of 128 productions have been approved, including 76 local and 52 international projects, with over RM419 million in rebates disbursed and direct investments totalling RM2.71 billion. Despite regional competition from countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, Azmir remains confident in Malaysia's unique advantages. 'A skilled English-speaking workforce, economic stability, and an efficient permit approval process via the Central Agency for Application of Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (PUSPAL) are among the valued-added factors for the country being the preferred filming destination. 'Malaysia offers attractive locations, cost-efficiency, and a production-friendly environment. More importantly, we are building a complete ecosystem - from talent training and modern tech usage to post-production,' he said. To amplify FIMI's global visibility, Azmir said FINAS is also preparing to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Tourism Malaysia, which, among others, aims to position film not just as an entertainment product but also as a tourism promotion tool. 'This partnership will promote Malaysia as a filming destination while showcasing our tourism offerings to global audiences through movies shot here. 'Upcoming efforts include organising a Malaysia Film Week overseas, with one slated to be held in Beijing this August, led by FINAS chairman Datuk Hans Isaac,' he said. Azmir said FINAS is also expanding international cooperation, including recent initiatives with China in conjunction with the Chinese President Xi Jinping's official visit to Malaysia last month. Similar talks are underway with India and Indonesia. 'Our vision is for Malaysia to evolve into a regional hub not only for filming locations but also for film education and technology in the next five years. 'We want Malaysian crew to go international, local post-production companies to create content for Southeast Asia markets, and more local universities to become professional training centres for the
The Sun
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Malaysia strengthens position as regional filming hub
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia continues to cement its status as a leading regional hub for film production, successfully attracting foreign creative investments through the Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI), which is creating jobs and upskilling the local workforce. National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) chief executive officer Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib revealed that among the latest international productions to benefit from FIMI is the upcoming television series Lord of the Flies, produced by Sony Pictures and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The series was filmed in Langkawi, Kedah, at the end of last year. 'The production brought in more than 30 child actors from overseas, accompanied by parents and tutors, and rented a major hotel in Langkawi for nearly five months. 'In accordance with FIMI's requirements, the production also employed a significant number of local crew members,' he told Bernama in a recent interview. He said the initiative was made possible through a partnership between FINAS and the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), which provided basic film production courses to workers from the tourism sector. To further enhance local participation, Azmir announced that, starting next year, the minimum quota for local crew involvement in foreign productions will increase from 30 to 40 per cent. 'This move will not only create more job opportunities for Malaysians, but also accelerate skills development by exposing local talent to international production standards,' he remarked. Since the introduction of FIMI in 2013, a total of 128 productions have been approved, including 76 local and 52 international projects, with over RM419 million in rebates disbursed and direct investments totalling RM2.71 billion. Despite regional competition from countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, Azmir remains confident in Malaysia's unique advantages. 'A skilled English-speaking workforce, economic stability, and an efficient permit approval process via the Central Agency for Application of Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (PUSPAL) are among the valued-added factors for the country being the preferred filming destination. 'Malaysia offers attractive locations, cost-efficiency, and a production-friendly environment. More importantly, we are building a complete ecosystem - from talent training and modern tech usage to post-production,' he said. To amplify FIMI's global visibility, Azmir said FINAS is also preparing to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Tourism Malaysia, which, among others, aims to position film not just as an entertainment product but also as a tourism promotion tool. 'This partnership will promote Malaysia as a filming destination while showcasing our tourism offerings to global audiences through movies shot here. 'Upcoming efforts include organising a Malaysia Film Week overseas, with one slated to be held in Beijing this August, led by FINAS chairman Datuk Hans Isaac,' he said. Azmir said FINAS is also expanding international cooperation, including recent initiatives with China in conjunction with the Chinese President Xi Jinping's official visit to Malaysia last month. Similar talks are underway with India and Indonesia. 'Our vision is for Malaysia to evolve into a regional hub not only for filming locations but also for film education and technology in the next five years. 'We want Malaysian crew to go international, local post-production companies to create content for Southeast Asia markets, and more local universities to become professional training centres for the
The Star
20-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Malaysia Airlines unveils 'Time for Memorable Journeys' campaign
SEPANG : Building on the momentum of its successful 'Time For' campaign, Malaysia Airlines has introduced its latest iteration – Time For Memorable Journeys – inviting travellers to embark on enriching journeys with enticing fares across its domestic and international network. The sale is available until today for travel until March 31, next year. This campaign encourages travellers to discover new cultures and create unforgettable memories, all while enjoying the renowned warmth of Malaysian Hospitality. Travellers can explore Malaysia and beyond with all-in return Economy Class fares from *RM119 to popular domestic destinations like Kota Kinabalu and Langkawi and from *RM419 to international cities such as Bangkok, Trivandrum, Paris and more across Malaysia Airlines' global network. From hidden gems like Da Nang to iconic spots like Auckland and the soon-to-return Brisbane, this campaign makes travel more rewarding and memorable. All Economy Class fares include 20kg of checked baggage, offering great value whether it's a vibrant escape, cultural journey, or romantic getaway. Experience greater comfort, seamless connectivity, and the signature hospitality of Malaysia Airlines. For travellers transiting through KLIA Terminal 1, the Bonus Side Trip offers added value with a complimentary stopover to one of seven exciting Malaysian destinations — such as Langkawi, Penang, or Johor Bahru — all within a single ticket. Travellers can also enjoy enhanced onboard offerings, including the personalised "Chef on Call" menu and elegant amenity kits. Families with children benefit from the MH Young Explorers Club, with perks such as priority check-in, family boarding, kid-friendly meals and engaging activity packs. To elevate the experience, Malaysia Airlines provides a 24-hour Private Terminal transfer service for Enrich Platinum, Business Suite and Business Class passengers. Featuring a luxury fleet of Mercedes Benz sedans, including the S 580 e Plug-in Hybrid and all-electric EQS 500 4MATIC, the service ensures seamless, chauffeur-driven transfers between KLIA Terminal 1's Main Terminal and Satellite Building. With the recent enhancement of Malaysia Airlines' Fare Family (Economy Value, Basic and Flex) offers added benefits like baggage allowance, seat selection and priority services, with varying flexibility for refunds and rebooking. Enrich members also receive an additional 5% off fares, while non-members are encouraged to sign up for free to access this benefit. With Malaysia Airlines, it's not just about getting there – it's about how you feel along the way. Time For Memorable Journeys is your call to explore with heart, reconnect with the world and make every mile matter. For more information or to book, visit or download the mobile app for the latest deals and promotions. *Fares shown are for Economy Basic, subject to availability. Return fares apply to bookings made during the campaign period from 7–20 May 2025 for travel between 1 June 2025 and 31 March 2026. Blackout dates apply. Visit for more details.
Business Times
29-04-2025
- Business
- Business Times
Discount chain Eco-Shop seeks RM419 million in Malaysia IPO
[KUALA LUMPUR] Malaysian discount retail chain Eco-Shop Marketing plans to raise RM419 million (S$127 million) in what will be Malaysia's biggest market debut in eight months. Eco-Shop will look to sell 347 million shares at RM1.21 apiece in a public listing, valuing the company at RM7 billion, according to a prospectus released on Tuesday (Apr 29). The company plans to raise an additional RM623 million via a share sale to institutional investors. Maybank Investment Bank, a unit of Malaysia's biggest lender, is the sole underwriter of the IPO. The stock is expected to start trading on May 23. The dollar-store operator plans to use the proceeds from the share sale to add 70 stores per year for the next five years, essentially doubling its store count, chief executive officer Jessica Ng said during the launch of the prospectus in Malaysia's Selangor state. 'In the current cost environment, our business model has never been more relevant,' she said. Established in 2003 by Lee Kar Whatt, Eco-Shop sells the majority of items in its stores for RM2.60. It operates 350 stores across Malaysia and has a market share of 68 per cent in the country's discount-store sector. Eco-Shop's IPO underlines the strength of Malaysia's consumer sector – which also attracted the country's biggest listing last year in mini-mart chain 99 Speed Mart Retail Holdings, which raised over US$530 million in Malaysia's biggest IPO in seven years. Malaysia's consumer spending is expected to see further strong growth in 2025, according to Fitch Solutions' BMI in a recent report. Household spending is expected to grow 5.2 per cent this year, according to the report, marking a return to pre-pandemic levels of growth. BLOOMBERG
