Jun 7, 2024 | Faces & Happenings
The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MEDAC) has celebrated the achievement of 50 entrepreneurs at the awards night organised by the NiagaTimes media portal, the Anugerah Personaliti Industri dan Usahawan Malaysia 2024.
The Deputy Minister, Yang Berhormat Datuk Ramanan Ramakrishnan, attended as the guest of honour to inaugurate and present awards at the prestigious event.
In his opening speech, he stated that such programmes aim to encourage entrepreneurs to pursue excellence in business and foster entrepreneurial spirit among themselves.
He added that this program indirectly creates a platform for local companies, both new and old, with potential to gain attention on a larger scale.
There were a total of 10 award categories represented by 50 companies and individuals receiving awards at the event. Among the award categories that day were ‘Company of the Year’, ‘Outstanding SME’, professional firms, ‘Food & Beverage’, technological innovation, industrial leadership, best companies, women in business, and many more.
For the Anugerah Institusi Kewangan Mikro Terbaik, the recipient was Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia. This financial institution, also known as AIM, was selected based on its excellence in fulfilling its mission to empower human capital for micro and new entrepreneurs nationwide. Moreover, the organisation also disbursed a large loan amount of RM2.6 billion to 320,000 entrepreneurs last year. Due to this excellence, AIM’s Managing Director, Mohamed Shamir bin Abdul Aziz, was also honoured as the sole recipient of the Anugerah Ikon Kepimpinan Nasional.
Another top award recipient, the ‘Company of the Year’ award, was presented to TenQ Group Sdn Bhd. This giant company offering a variety of creative interior decoration services not only possesses expertise in exclusive design and renovation involving residential and commercial offices but also excels in rapid growth due to being the only interior decoration service company in Malaysia to apply warranties to its customers. The company’s sales value reached RM40 million in 2023.
Other award recipients included Datuk Baharom bin Embi (Chairman of Co-opbank Pertama); Rizman Ruzaini; De Fam; Wayout Solution Sdn Bhd; Kedai Kopi Tan Kow Po; Raagineedhevi Subramaniam; Nur Shyzul Ardieyana Binti Julkili; RD Digital Berhad; P & A Prospect Sdn Bhd; Nexgen Solutions Sdn Bhd; Renata Health World Sdn Bhd; Ang Kean Yong; Madeena Bedding Industries (M) Sdn Bhd; House of Bricks KL; Delicious Curry House Sdn Bhd; Datin Dr Norli Binti Haji Alias; Maydas Enterprise; Dr Lau Kian Hong; IOE Cams Sdn Bhd; Datuk Vellayan Nalliannan; Redefined Mortgage Specialist Sdn Bhd; Sanwa Tours (M) Sdn Bhd; Janahan Arumugam; Motion Digital Technologies; Qaabila Skincare; and Raja Shamri Bin Raja Husin.
Also present at the event were the Chief Executive Officer of RHA Media, Dato’ R. Rajendran, and the Chairman of CSR Malaysia, Lee Seng Chee.
NiagaTimes, a preferred business media portal for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), organised the Anugerah Personaliti Industri dan Usahawan Malaysia 2024 with the theme ‘Usahawan Berinspirasi Cetus Revolusi’. This award not only aims to recognise the excellence of MSMEs from various backgrounds but also appreciates all their efforts in the country’s economic development.
NiagaTimes portal is published by PR Partners Asia Sdn Bhd, established since 2016. The portal aims to assist individuals interested in business by providing comprehensive information about entrepreneurship.
May 5, 2024 | What's New
AR Rahman, the internationally acclaimed award winner known for countless melodies and compositions, is set to perform once again in Kuala Lumpur on 27th July 2024 in the concert titled ‘AR Rahman Live in Kuala Lumpur 2024’.
In an exclusive online conversation with the maestro himself, selected media platforms had the privilege to hear on what to expect for the upcoming concert.
Rahman said that he’s so excited to meet his fans in Malaysia. He expressed that the fans in Malaysia are the ‘craziest’ and feels the bonding with them. “When I am feeling low, I always think of Malaysian fans and it lifts my spirit”. Reflecting on his journey, Rahman reminisces about his inaugural concert in Malaysia, a moment that forged a deep-seated connection with the audience and the land. He speaks of an enduring attachment and a sense of belonging that permeates his performances in the region, infusing them with an added layer of significance and intimacy.
When queried about his process of curating the song list for his concerts, Rahman elucidates that, like any artist, he aims to strike a balance between timeless classics and newer gems. He acknowledges the evolving preferences across generations, acknowledging a nostalgic allure attached to certain compositions.
Fans can look forward to a powerful and unforgettable 3 hours performance comprising some 90% Tamil songs of the 90s, 2000s and other latest hits. He expressed his love for the Tamil language and also acknowledges the requests of the Malaysian fans. Rahman added that fans can also look forward to some pleasant surprises in the upcoming concert.
In essence, AR Rahman’s concerts are not merely musical spectacles but transformative experiences that traverse realms of joy, nostalgia, and profound emotion. With each performance, he reaffirms his status as a luminary in the world of music, leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts of his audience.
AR Rahman’s concert showcases many well-known playback singers and Rahman mentioned that he will reveal it bit by bit in the run up to the show.
Besides performing in Malaysia, Rahman also enjoys the local food and the serenity of the islands in Malaysia. He shared his experience of visiting local markets and even an IT centre where he purchased a gaming laptop.
With a career spanning over three decades, Rahman has garnered global accolades for his unparalleled contributions to music, earning prestigious recognitions including Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and Golden Globe Awards.
Rahman’s blend of soul-stirring melodies and electrifying beats promises a musical journey like no other. His mastery of diverse genres, from classical to contemporary, ensures a dynamic and engaging experience for fans of all tastes. From iconic hits that have defined generations to fresh compositions that push artistic boundaries, Rahman’s concert is a celebration of musical innovation and cultural resonance.
Get ready to be swept away by his unparalleled talent and immerse yourself in an evening of pure musical magic. Organised by Star Planet, the event is scheduled to start at 8:00 pm at National Stadium Bukit Jalil.
Tickets for the AR Rahman Live in Kuala Lumpur 2024 will be available for purchase starting 8th May 2024 at 2:00 pm via my.bookmyshow.com and ticket2U.com.my. Tickets are priced from RM98 onwards. Fans are encouraged to secure their seats early to ensure they do not miss out on this historic musical event. For more information and ticketing details, please visit www.starplanet.com.my.
May 1, 2024 | Rankings
Malaysia’s entrepreneurial scene is ablaze with the innovative spirits of influencer entrepreneurs who have transcended the digital realm to conquer the business landscape. These individuals, celebrated for their digital influence and entrepreneurial skills, have acquired tremendous success in their business ventures. From fashion icons advocating body positivity to fitness aficionados revolutionising workout regimes, each influencer entrepreneur brings a unique vision and passion to their ventures. Here, Top 10 of Asia shares its random list of the top 10 influencer entrepreneurs in Malaysia (arranged in no particular order), highlighting their captivating stories, visionary ventures and profound impact on the intersection of digital influence and business innovation.
Shalma Ainaa
Shalma Ainaa is a dynamic content creator in the realms of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, making her mark as a TV host, YouTuber and emcee. She is the visionary behind the brands Shals and Univershals. Shals focuses on crafting unique and trendy pieces that elevate everyday attire for both men and women. The brand’s mission is to introduce a refreshing perspective on fashion, providing versatile staples that effortlessly blend style and practicality. With her engaging presence and innovative designs, Shalma continues to inspire her audience to express themselves through fashion, showcasing how everyday wear can be both chic and functional.
Josephine Yap
Josephine Yap, a successful influencer and founder of Fondest, has revolutionised the fashion industry with her dedication to body positivity and sustainability. At Fondest, every garment is meticulously designed to embrace women’s curves, ensuring they feel confident and beautiful. Moreover, Josephine’s commitment to minimising wastage is evident in the brand’s eco-conscious practices. By avoiding plastic packaging and providing adorable reusable bags, Fondest not only enhances everyday convenience but also prioritises the well-being of Mother Earth. Through her visionary approach, Josephine Yap has successfully merged fashion and environmental consciousness, setting a new standard for ethical and stylish apparel.
Hafiz Mahamad
Hafiz Mahamad has made waves as both an influencer and the visionary founder behind Ainaa Beauty and AINAA Clinic. With a passion for natural-based solutions, his creations at Ainaa Beauty have captivated consumers for their remarkable effectiveness and dedication to using organic ingredients. Complementing this, AINAA Clinic stands as a testament to Hafiz’s commitment to excellence, offering a range of certified aesthetic treatments under his meticulous guidance. As a trailblazer in the industry, Hafiz continues to redefine beauty standards, championing quality, authenticity, and innovation in skincare and aesthetic practices, leaving an indelible mark in the beauty industry.
Wan Nur Syaira
Wan Nur Syaira, renowned for her popular online presence and business acumen, has a keen eye for fashion and a penchant for minimalist aesthetics. This social media luminary often captivates audiences with her envy-worthy travel escapades. As the mastermind behind SAOI, a burgeoning fashion brand, Syaira aims to curate essential pieces tailored to everyday life. Embracing simplicity and off-duty model flair, SAOI’s collections showcase contemporary allure through timeless designs and impeccable craftsmanship. Syaira’s vision transcends mere entrepreneurship, embodying a harmonious blend of style, utility and sophistication for the modern fashion enthusiast.
Ceddy Ang
Ceddy Ang’s digital footprint spans across various realms as an influencer, video creator, foodie vlogger and talk show host. With a knack for infusing humour and honesty into his content, he has garnered a dedicated following across platforms like Twitter, TikTok and Instagram. Particularly revered in the culinary sphere, his website – CeddyOrNot reigns supreme, offering delightful insights into the world of food. Beyond his entertaining personas, Ceddy showcases his entrepreneurial spirit through OwletBeauty, a venture specialising in fragrances and essential oils. Ceddy’s multifaceted presence exemplifies a seamless fusion of creativity, entrepreneurship and authentic engagement, captivating audiences far and wide.
Charis Ow
Charis Ow, a renowned influencer, has ventured into the world of fashion with NIKO & CLARE, a beloved clothing brand designed for mothers and children. Specialising in “mummy and me” attire, the brand offers coordinated outfits for mothers and their kids. Before her foray into fashion, Charis enjoyed a successful career as a singer and notably served as the Head Mouseketeer at Disney’s Club Mickey Mouse. Through NIKO & CLARE, Charis intertwines her love for style and family, providing a platform for mothers and children to bond over fashion-forward ensembles, fostering cherished moments and memories.
Khairul Aming
Khairul Aming, a prominent figure in Malaysia’s digital landscape, wears multiple hats as an influencer, content creator, social media personality and burgeoning entrepreneur. He first gained widespread recognition through his annual video series, “30 hari, 30 resepi“, showcasing 30 unique recipe ideas throughout the holy month of Ramadan. Building upon his success, Aming has ventured into the business world, launching Sambal Nyet, a brand specialising in sambal sales. With his innovative approach and dynamic presence, Khairul Aming continues to captivate audiences and make strides in both the digital and entrepreneurial realms of Malaysia.
Juwei Teoh
Juwei Teoh, a prominent figure in the realm of social media, is celebrated for her multifaceted roles as a social media personality, style icon and influencer. As the brain behind the thriving accessories label Gumme, she has propelled her brand to remarkable heights. Gumme’s success story is punctuated by its iconic creations like the Chromestar necklace and Metallic Hearts phone charm. Juwei’s journey is a testament to her versatility, having navigated realms of acting, singing, modelling and entrepreneurship with finesse over the years. Her seamless transition from one domain to another underscores her dynamic prowess and enduring influence.
Hakken
Hakken, a standout talent in Asia’s cosplay, modelling and influencer scenes, hails from the picturesque land of Sarawak. Beyond borders, Hakken has earned acclaim as Tokyo Tourism Ambassador, championing Japan’s vibrant culture. Not merely confined to the spotlight, Hakken also shines as the brains behind Hakken Atelier. This venture is a platform that offers a range of Hakken-themed merchandise, from photobooks to apparel, pins, autograph boards, bags and even hanging scrolls. Through Hakken’s creative ventures, entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to cultural exchange, Hakken resonates deeply with fans across the globe, leaving an enduring mark on the world of cosplay and beyond.
Maggy Wang
Maggy Wang wears many hats. Not only is she an influential figure in the realms of radio, television, and social media, but she also serves as the visionary founder of MOTIONLAB. This fitness haven, conceptualised and driven by Maggy’s passion, offers a distinctive fusion of small group classes and personalised training, meticulously crafted by top-tier coaches. At MOTIONLAB, clients immerse themselves in a holistic approach to fitness, exploring mobility exercises and integrated bodyweight routines to cultivate both strength and flexibility. Within Maggy’s domain, fitness transcends mere individual effort; it becomes a collaborative journey where participants thrive at their own pace, fueled by the supportive atmosphere of group sessions.
Apr 30, 2024 | Enterprises, Entertainment
Calling all AR Rahman fans! Are you ready for the biggest party in 2024? Star Planet, the leading entertainment enterprise in Malaysia, announced the eagerly awaited introduction of top-tier live music performances showcasing the iconic AR Rahman, set to enthral crowds on July 27, 2024, at 8 pm in the renowned National Stadium Bukit Jalil. The press conference for AR Rahman’s Live concert in Kuala Lumpur 2024 took place on 30th April, 2024 at 3:30 pm at Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur.
Present at the press briefing were Dato Alan Foo, the Managing Director of Star Planet, alongside Dato R. Rajendran, the Director of Star Planet. Additionally, in attendance was Mr. Senthil Velavan, the successful Show Coordinator of AR Rahman, whose skill guarantees the impeccable realisation of the concert’s artistic vision, assuring an unforgettable event for all attendees. Also joining the gathering were over 30 fans of the Rahmaniac Malaysia fan club.
Rahmaniac group members
“We are thrilled to bring AR Rahman, a true icon of the music industry, to Malaysia for what promises to be a momentous event,” said Dato’ Alan Foo, managing director of Star Planet. “This AR Rahman Live in Kuala Lumpur 2024 represents a significant milestone for Star Planet as we continue our mission to deliver world-class entertainment experiences to Malaysian audiences. Rahman’s music transcends boundaries and speaks to the hearts of millions worldwide, and we are honoured to present this extraordinary opportunity for fans to witness his brilliance live on stage.”
Dato R. Rajendran, Star Planet’s Director, conveys that the AR Rahman Live in Kuala Lumpur 2024 event, organised by Star Planet, will present an impressive blend of musical genres. This will include Rahman’s classic tracks alongside fresh compositions, all performed by a remarkable group of artists. Audiences can look forward to an engaging exploration of Rahman’s distinguished career in Indian cinema, accompanied by captivating reinterpretations of beloved songs, with a focus on a carefully selected array of Tamil melodies.
“We anticipate the event to draw a remarkable turnout of enthusiastic audiences. This significant interest underscores the widespread excitement surrounding the event, marking it as a standout highlight on the entertainment calendar. Moreover, we anticipate a surge in domestic travel as fans from various regions eagerly converge to partake in this extraordinary musical experience,” added Dato Alan.
AR Rahman, the maestro behind countless timeless melodies and groundbreaking compositions, is set to deliver an unforgettable performance, marking a historic moment in Malaysian entertainment history. With a career spanning over three decades, Rahman has garnered global acclaim for his unparalleled contributions to music, earning prestigious accolades including Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, and Golden Globe Awards.
Get ready to be spellbound by an enthralling spectacle as a constellation of celebrated artists and dancers grace the stage in seamless unity. With cutting-edge, international-class audio-visual technology illuminating each moment, attendees are in for an immersive journey that defies expectations and ignites the senses. From electrifying choreography to soul-stirring melodies, this star-studded performance promises to transcend boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on all who witness its brilliance.
Tickets for the AR Rahman Live in Kuala Lumpur 2024 will be available for purchase starting 8th May 2024 at 2:00 pm via my.bookmyshow.com and ticket2U.com.my. Tickets are priced from RM98 onwards. Fans are encouraged to secure their seats early to ensure they do not miss out on this historic musical event. For more information and ticketing details, please visit www.starplanet.com.my
Apr 25, 2024 | Rankings
In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, visionary individuals across various industries are reshaping norms, challenging conventions and driving innovation. From revolutionising traditional business models to spearheading sustainable initiatives, these trailblazers exemplify the spirit of creativity and resilience. In this issue, Top 10 of Asia shares its random list of the ten most innovative entrepreneurs who have left an indelible mark upon their respective fields. Through their passion, ingenuity and unwavering commitment, they have not only carved out successful ventures but have also inspired others to pursue their own dreams.
Ivor Lim
Before the onset of the 2020 pandemic, Ivor Lim, a law graduate, discovered her passion for content creation and entrepreneurship. She has been consistently producing diverse and engaging content, from experiential videos that save her followers the trouble of trial and error, to sharing her travel experiences and cultural explorations. In parallel with her journey as a content creator, Ivor co-founded HYGR, an e-commerce business specialising in natural and sustainable personal care products. Despite her background in law, Ivor successfully navigated the entrepreneurial landscape. Starting from a modest studio room, HYGR expanded to a semi-D factory within four years, a testament to Ivor’s business acumen and dedication.
Melvin Chee
Melvin Chee, the mastermind behind RPG Commerce, leads the charge in creating and launching Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brands. RPG Commerce’s disruptive approach has birthed numerous game-changers, challenging retail norms with its go-to-market strategies. Backed by a dynamic team of over 100 professionals spanning Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines, RPG Commerce thrives on cross-functional synergy. Under Melvin’s guidance, RPG Commerce continues to redefine consumer experiences, reshaping the retail landscape with innovation and agility. With a relentless commitment to excellence, RPG Commerce stands as a beacon of innovation, propelling brands into the future.
Ariff Faisal & Haris Kamal
Ariff Faisal and Haris Kamal, the brains behind Kualesa, have sparked a sustainable revolution on the apparel scene. Kualesa, renowned for its bamboo and recycled material polos and t-shirts, stands as a beacon against fast fashion. Ariff’s awakening to the environmental harm caused by synthetic fibres led to the inception of Kualesa. His realisation, upon examining his wardrobe filled with polyester garments, ignited the brand’s ethos. Convincing his confidant, Haris, to embark on this journey as co-founder, they’ve transformed Kualesa from mere values to a symbol of style and comfort, challenging the fashion industry’s status quo.
Tan U-Mae
Tan U-Mae, the creative force behind bitter/sweet, embarked on her journey as a cake artist in 2016. Inspired by a fusion of baking and sugar art experimentation, she envisioned crafting exquisite cakes. Her background in fashion design and artistic upbringing fostered a unique perspective, attracting discerning clients seeking elevated confectionery. With the birth of Whipped in 2022, bitter/sweet‘s sister brand, U-Mae expands her repertoire to on-the-go desserts and snack boxes. From decadent whole cakes to convenient snack assortments, Whipped offerings promise moments of indulgence and relaxation for all.
Malisse Tan
Malisse Tan, the visionary behind BOBBLE, prioritises menstruating women’s needs and environmental consciousness. Committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, BOBBLE focuses on health, education, gender equality, sanitation and responsible consumption. Its menstrual products, crafted from GOTS Certified Organic Cotton, are toxin-free and ethically sourced. The products are also free from toxins, chlorine, perfumes and dyes. Embracing sustainability, BOBBLE utilises FSC Certified Paper for packaging, promoting biodegradability. As a testament to its impact, BOBBLE has garnered media attention, spotlighting its dedication to revolutionising menstrual care while championing environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Alvin Yuan
Alvin Yuan is the visionary behind HealthMetrics, a distinguished cloud enterprise platform designed to revolutionise how employers oversee employee benefits and healthcare expenses holistically. This innovative system empowers HR and Admin teams to efficiently streamline internal processes, effortlessly auto-populating employee benefits while offering comprehensive analytics and detailed reports. Through the HealthMetrics App, employees gain easy access to their health benefits data, enabling them to monitor their expenditures conveniently. Alvin’s dedication to enhancing workplace health management has garnered recognition, making HealthMetrics a trusted solution for businesses seeking holistic healthcare management.
Chang Yi Hern
Chang Yi Hern, the visionary behind JomRun, has transformed the fitness and endurance event industry. His brainchild offers a comprehensive platform where individuals can seamlessly discover and enroll in a myriad of activities, ranging from running races to yoga events. By consolidating a diverse array of fitness-related opportunities in one convenient location, JomRun empowers users to cultivate a holistic and fulfilling lifestyle. Thanks to Chang Yi Hern’s innovation, pursuing fitness goals and embracing new challenges has never been easier or more accessible.
Bobby Ong and TM Lee
Bobby Ong and TM Lee co-founded CoinGecko in 2014 with a noble aim: to democratise access to crypto data and equip users with actionable insights. This platform delves deep into the crypto realm, offering invaluable insights through reports, publications, newsletters and more. CoinGecko conducts fundamental analyses of the crypto market, tracking not only prices and market capitalisation but also community growth, code development, major events, and on-chain metrics. As the world’s largest independent cryptocurrency data aggregator, CoinGecko monitors over 14,000 crypto assets across more than 1,000 exchanges globally.
Chuah Kee Wei
Chuah Kee Wei, the visionary behind Agrain, embarked on a mission to promote healthy eating. His brainchild seeks to redefine the notion that nutritious meals must be bland and expensive. Agrain‘s diverse menu boasts carefully crafted dishes, ranging from hearty salads to comforting bowls and low-calorie ice creams. Each item is meticulously prepared with premium ingredients, prioritising wellness and taste. Kee Wei’s commitment lies in providing convenient, affordable, nutritious and delightful dining options for the health-conscious. Through Agrain, he aims to make wholesome eating accessible to everyone, ensuring that good food is not just a privilege but a right.
Huen Su San
Huen Su San, the mastermind behind COOKHOUSE Malaysia, has pioneered a collaborative space for food entrepreneurs to flourish. This innovative hub fosters a culture of co-working, co-sharing and co-creating, offering a supportive environment for artisans and culinary visionaries to thrive. With four strategic locations across Malaysia, COOKHOUSE serves as a hybrid cloud kitchen, equipped with central kitchen facilities, private rental options, shared cooking spaces, event venues and dining concepts. Su San’s vision is to unite individuals in the food industry under one roof, enabling them to harness collective resources, expertise and experiences for accelerated growth and success.
