Jason Ko

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international students

New research unveils a disconcerting reality for international students in Australia who are grappling with more than just their studies.
(Story adapted from source: The Guardian &amp; Malaysians on Social Media)
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/655dbeec7c983b7619d11cb626c3514e84c923c4c400e60780f1710b3f9e3f46" />
Jane Cheah of Subang Jaya, Malaysia always wanted to do the OZ study adventure. Meet some interesting students abroad and perhaps do a Road trip along New South Wales and visit the 13 apostles as she checks out the whole IG checklist.
However, what she encountered instead was a range of racism ranging from subtle ugly looks to downright verbal (fortunately not yet physical) abuse at the most unlikely of day-to-day everyday locations. The shock of being treated like an outcast just because her skin was not pale white was not something she was adequately prepared for. This not even yet taking into account rising inflation meaning fresh fruits she had taken for granted while living in Malaysia are considered something of a high-end food in fast-rising inflation Western economies.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9c823e8f9510a2f7f3f41e78344db72cd1abc752da8142195ffecc73d074a837" /> Imagine not eating any Fresh Fruits for a year until you make it Home
&nbsp;
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/35314a2afd7079cd4b4049be5919d18055595c62cb12020412282d19358c8f18" /> Malaysian students in Australia (2019)
When Juli&euml;n Lubeek, a well-deserving recipient of a scholarship to complete his PhD at an esteemed Australian university, landed Down Under, he didn't envisage the 'Australian Dream' to involve bouts of homelessness and a literal hunger for knowledge.
Lubeek&rsquo;s scholarship money evaporated at the end of 2021, thanks to pandemic-induced delays, turning him into a full-time student by day and a near-homeless, hungry, international scholar by night.
The rules of the game were tough: No government support, but international students could work up to 40 hours a week. Alas, Lubeek found that balancing full-time studying with a 40-hour work week was as tough as convincing a kangaroo to sit for tea.
The truth is, he says, international students are viewed as cash cows - an ATM with feelings. If they treat Caucasian foreign students like this, one can only imagine the treatment of Asian students these days. Thanks in part to the near-daily mainstream media assault by the USA on all things &lsquo;&Ccedil;hina&rsquo;.
New research conducted by Monash University, which surveyed more than 60 international students in Melbourne, reveals that the Australian Dream is more of a mirage for these students, with the rising cost of living, exorbitant transportation expenses, and the Herculean task of managing studies with work commitments.
Now, consider that there are 182,000 international students currently living in Melbourne, almost 40% of Victoria's entire university populace. That's like filling up the Melbourne Cricket Ground twice over with students from all over the world, including a sizable contingent of 20,000 students from Malaysia alone.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e23f3660951012b45bf3130767531a5ccd74d05f04231d8b5ccaa3ed894f39ad" /> Malaysian students at their club booth at a University in Aussie.
Diving further into the numbers, the report shows that almost half of the surveyed students are food insecure &ndash; a rate that triples the average Aussie.
Dr Beatriz Gallo Cordoba, co-author of the report, was taken aback by the extent of hardship the interviewees were encountering, often quietly bearing the brunt of their circumstances, which led to diminished academic performance and overall well-being.
It seems that the 'Aussie spirit' of mateship and support is needed more than ever. International students require more assistance, including food relief, financial support, and scholarships, to ensure they aren't just surviving but thriving.
Yet, despite the hardships, students continue to flock to Australia. As of December 2022, there were 619,371 international students pursuing their degrees in Australia, a figure that's projected to grow to 940,000 by 2025.
However, when a crisis, like the Covid-19 pandemic or a cost-of-living crunch hits, coping strategies often stop working. A 27-year-old male student revealed that his diet was dictated by his wallet, not his stomach.
<img src="https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExOTI5YWRmZWFmOWUwNDdiYTI0MTBhNzZiZDdlODQwNjVlYzllOWY5MSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZzX2dpZklkJmN0PWc/La7P30FM3sTDrwntki/giphy.gif" alt="No Money Bangladeshi Gif By Gif" />
The responsibility, therefore, lies not just with the universities to support these students but also with the wider community to ensure that their experience in Australia is not just about surviving but thriving. After all, these international students aren't just figures in a database, but humans living, learning, and contributing to the Australian society.
Australia is home to a large population of Malaysian students, with an estimated 20,000 choosing to study here each year, out of the hundreds of thousands of Malaysian students studying abroad. Australia, and indeed all countries that welcome international students, need to do better by them.
The pandemic isn't over, and neither are the challenges faced by these students.
Some snippets of the life of KOLs in Australia:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0346a9ba3bf4818614123e0ec82a8e25551bd3acf4449e807c2c6f45c434001c" /> Image Isabelle Kwan <a href="https://www.instagram.com/issakwannn/">(@isabelleeyt</a>)
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fb2cc888a2601b1bbc27db897a72f02a05dc310f0699e0fa86e0fd3492c8845c" /> Image via Wen <a href="https://www.instagram.com/weninmelb/">(@weninmelb</a>)
International students are not just transients or cash cows. They're part of the community, contributing to the vibrancy and diversity of the country. As the Greens spokesperson for education, senator Mehreen Faruqi, astutely points out, Australia seems to have failed its international students during the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis.
We lure these bright young minds with promises of a world-class education, only to leave them struggling with sky-high rents and a cost-of-living crisis that has seen many students choosing meals based on their wallets rather than their dietary needs.
According to Walsh, with the present circumstances, it seems unlikely the situation would improve in the short term. International students were a particularly vulnerable population during the pandemic, and the effects will continue to linger.
In conclusion, international students aren&rsquo;t just silent communities that fly beneath the radar; they are a vital part of our society, and it's high time we recognized and supported them as such. We must stop treating them as mere statistics and start welcoming them as integral members of our community. The pandemic may not be over, but neither is our collective resilience and capacity for empathy and support.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, The Guardian &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Is Australia really the best place to study abroad? 

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'Lapar’ Down Under: Australia's International Students Navigate Food vs Shelter vs Racism

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Scentify

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Oatside

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Rohto

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A Disturbing First in Online Safety Prosecution
In a landmark legal case under the United Kingdom's new Online Safety Act 2023, 23-year-old Tyler Webb, from Loughborough, Leicestershire, has become the first person in the country to be convicted of encouraging serious self-harm online. He was sentenced to nine years and four months in custody under a hybrid order, which will see him detained in a secure mental health facility before potentially serving the rest of his sentence in prison.
The charges were brought after Webb relentlessly encouraged a vulnerable 21-year-old woman to harm herself for his own sexual gratification, eventually urging her to attempt suicide during a video call. His actions were described in court as "calculated psychological violence".
Grooming and Psychological Coercion
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7be96f7ac1f388a1a2a31b7db5ce529cb7e137cde57acd0a07b4c776349bee8d" />
Webb met his victim in June 2024 via an online support forum for mental health issues, where she was seeking help. After establishing contact, he persuaded her to move their conversations to the encrypted Telegram messaging app, where the abuse escalated.
Over a period of six weeks, Webb groomed the woman, gradually manipulating her into self-harming and then into attempting suicide. Prosecutors revealed that he would instruct her how to harm herself and demanded she send photos of her injuries, which he used for sexual pleasure. He became agitated when she self-harmed without his prompting, as it meant he couldn't witness or control the act.
In one especially harrowing incident on 2 July 2024, Webb persuaded her to attempt suicide via a 44-minute video call. She passed out during the attempt, but survived. Upon regaining consciousness, Webb coldly instructed her to try again.
Victim&rsquo;s Bravery and Pain
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/51de215952f50354892e3feba71869e7ad2cb87b8eebb4c93e7bcc85b739d25c" />
The victim courageously reported the incident to police the following day. Her evidence &ndash; including audio recordings, screenshots, and photographs &ndash; formed the backbone of the prosecution case. She later admitted she felt guilty for getting him in trouble and listened to the audio again, only to realise the severity of his manipulation. Tragically, she attempted suicide again after listening to the recording.
In a powerful victim impact statement read in court, she said:
"He tried to kill me, not with his hands, but with his words... What Tyler did was not a mistake. It was calculated psychological violence."
She added:
"There will never be another second on this Earth where I don't have to live with the pain of what happened."
Legal Milestone Under the Online Safety Act
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/48fdab88645448b1f833f0ec480d1f48b53a3f2f6d8269d0c61855c9294dd2df" />
Webb&rsquo;s conviction under Section 184 of the Online Safety Act 2023 marks a historic first for this new legislation, which criminalises encouraging serious self-harm online. Although encouraging suicide has been an offence since 1961, this newer section addresses the rise of online abuse in the digital age.
Alex Johnson, from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), called it a "watershed prosecution" and warned that others have already been charged under the same law. He praised the victim's bravery, adding:
"If she had not come forward, Webb would have remained at liberty and free to target other vulnerable people online."
During sentencing at Leicester Crown Court on 4 July 2025, Webb appeared visibly distressed, at one point lying on the floor as a coping mechanism. His defence counsel, Joey Kwong, revealed that Webb had long suffered from autism spectrum disorder, borderline personality disorder, and depression.
Despite these conditions, the court was clear that his actions were deliberate and dangerous. The judge concluded that Webb was manipulative, sexually motivated, and posed a significant risk to others. He will remain in a mental health facility until deemed fit for release, at which point he will serve the rest of his sentence in prison.
Police and Public Reaction
Detective Constable Lauren Hampton, who led the investigation, described the case as one of the most distressing in her career. She said:
"Webb preyed upon a vulnerable woman at a time when she was reaching out for help and support. His vile requests were calculated and deliberate, and he knew they could result in her death."
She praised the victim for her extraordinary courage, adding:
"Her actions have undoubtedly safeguarded others."
This case has sparked widespread attention and debate, not only due to the horrifying nature of the offence, but also because it represents a significant turning point in the prosecution of digital harm. It stands as a stark warning that the Online Safety Act has teeth&mdash;and will be used to pursue justice for victims of online abuse.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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He met her in a mental health forum then manipulated her into self-harm and suicide attempts.

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UK Man Sentenced To 9 Years In Prison For Encouraging Woman To Kill Herself Via Social Media

A Malaysian mother has publicly expressed her heartfelt appreciation to AirAsia&rsquo;s cabin crew and ground staff after her one-year-old daughter experienced a sudden medical emergency onboard a flight from Guangzhou to Kuala Lumpur. The incident occurred on Flight AK115, which departed at 5:55am on 4 July 2026.
In a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JacyDAparislover/posts/pfbid028wFqNZfLjVMsc3dW3cQvWUTwwg4str8jKLPrn8W3pcedwu9nuTzzD8UhCGX3GGHBl">Facebook</a> post shared on Saturday, 5 July, mother Jacyntha Florentius recounted the frightening ordeal involving her daughter, Natashya Sofea. Initially, the flight was smooth and uneventful. Natashya had slept for most of the journey until she awoke about 90 minutes after takeoff to breastfeed &mdash; but soon after, things took a dramatic turn.
A Sudden Decline in Health at 30,000 Feet
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/be496f8f19523867851104b3d8adc0e9ec9ab70b7d1c6424f484aa35262ed48e" />
Jacyntha recalled how her daughter suddenly became unwell and unresponsive. Natashya grew pale, her lips lost colour, and she appeared weak and lethargic &mdash; symptoms that deeply alarmed the mother.
&ldquo;She was crying one moment, then eerily quiet the next. Her face and lips turned pale, and she looked like she was struggling to breathe,&rdquo; she wrote.
Acting quickly, Jacyntha tried to stimulate her daughter by patting her back and rubbing her limbs, while immediately alerting the cabin crew for help. The staff promptly provided oxygen support, and to the mother&rsquo;s relief, Natashya&rsquo;s condition began to improve &mdash; her breathing steadied, and colour slowly returned to her lips.
Crew Actions and Doctor Onboard Make All the Difference
Recognising the seriousness of the situation, the flight crew made a public announcement asking if there was a doctor onboard. Thankfully, a passenger with medical expertise responded and assisted in monitoring Natashya&rsquo;s vital signs.
Simultaneously, the crew communicated with the flight deck, and the pilot made the decision to lower the aircraft&rsquo;s altitude to aid the baby&rsquo;s breathing. Despite the baby stabilising, the captain opted to divert the flight to Ho Chi Minh City for urgent medical intervention.
&ldquo;During the 30-minute descent, the crew kept checking on her, massaging her hands and feet, and monitoring her pulse. They were incredibly attentive and caring,&rdquo; said Jacyntha.
Emergency Landing and Immediate Medical Attention
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fed0239eecb21a789832fab5117799839e6c9e30e0d97656f27c0b3353046b0d" />
&nbsp;Upon landing, a medical response team was already on standby at the airport. Paramedics boarded the plane to assess Natashya before escorting the mother and child to a nearby hospital by ambulance. AirAsia also ensured that their luggage was offloaded promptly, allowing the family to leave without delay.
At the hospital, Natashya underwent a series of tests &mdash; including an ECG, echocardiogram, and X-ray &mdash; with no waiting time. The examinations were completed within an hour, and her condition was stabilised.
Above and Beyond: Complimentary Flight and Continued Support
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/40a853df56499f41a8540234b3ddcd071a0a5c61f3b7408bf4850640dbea8c71" />
As a gesture of compassion and to ease the family&rsquo;s distress, AirAsia provided complimentary tickets for Jacyntha and her daughter to return safely to Kuala Lumpur.
The mother explained that Natashya had likely experienced a rare case of altitude-related sickness during the flight. She also expressed hope that the seven AirAsia crew members involved in the emergency would receive formal recognition for their professionalism and quick thinking.
Her post has since gone viral, receiving over 40,000 shares, with netizens praising the airline for its exemplary crisis response.
&ldquo;I will never forget the kindness and care shown by the crew and ground staff,&rdquo; Jacyntha wrote. &ldquo;They handled the situation with calm, speed, and genuine concern &mdash; and for that, I am forever grateful.&rdquo;
A Lesson in Compassion and Preparedness
This heartwarming incident has struck a chord with many online, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of well-trained airline staff and compassionate customer care. It also highlights how swift action, teamwork, and empathy can make all the difference in a high-stress situation.
AirAsia has yet to issue a formal statement, but the overwhelming public response speaks volumes about the professionalism displayed by its crew on that fateful morning.
Credit must go to the AirAsia crew of Flight AK115 for their swift, composed, and compassionate response in the face of a medical emergency. Their actions not only helped save a young life, but also reminded many of the vital role flight attendants and airline staff play &mdash; far beyond serving meals or giving safety demonstrations.
And it&rsquo;s not just about this one flight. This story serves as a tribute to all flight crews around the world, who work tirelessly and often under immense pressure, thousands of feet above ground, to ensure the safety and comfort of every passenger. Their job isn&rsquo;t easy, and moments like this show just how essential &mdash; and heroic &mdash; they truly are.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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A mother’s gratitude in the face of a mid-air crisis. Kudos to the AirAsia crew!

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Mother Praises AirAsia Crew’s Swift Action During Baby’s Mid-Flight Medical Emergency

In Malaysia&rsquo;s current economic landscape, the pursuit of financial stability and career growth is often an uphill battle. While the country continues to position itself as a regional hub for innovation, enterprise, and business expansion, the average worker is still grappling with low wages, rising costs, and a growing sense of burnout.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f8bf51f9865bb89752cf4068287a8be560ee2f5d533cf75c8d0bffb94a99b4bb" />
Corporate messaging tends to focus heavily on performance, productivity, and sales &mdash; all wrapped up in buzzwords like &ldquo;scaling,&rdquo; &ldquo;growth,&rdquo; and &ldquo;hustle culture.&rdquo; Yet behind the glossy fa&ccedil;ade lies a more sobering reality: many Malaysians are working longer hours just to keep up with basic living expenses, and for many, it often feels like there&rsquo;s little left at the end of the month &mdash; financially or emotionally.
From stagnant salary growth to the increasing cost of housing, transportation, and food, the pressure to stay afloat is weighing heavily on the workforce. For some, the constant grind has sparked a deeper question: Is all this really worth it?
&ldquo;I&rsquo;d Rather Earn Less and Live More&rdquo;: One Woman&rsquo;s Unconventional Decision
That very question is what led one Japanese woman to make a decision that&rsquo;s now resonating widely across Malaysian social media. In a viral TikTok video posted by @racewonderland, the woman shared how she chose to leave behind her high-pressure job in Japan and start over in Malaysia &mdash; not for a better salary, but for a better quality of life.
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@racewonderland/video/7523142332791786759" data-video-id="7523142332791786759">
<section><a title="@racewonderland" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@racewonderland?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@racewonderland</a> Gaji rendah pun tak kisah, saya lagi nak hidup di Malaysia! 🔥 🔔Video penuh: 西西歪Ccwhyao di YouTube <a title="西西歪" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/%E8%A5%BF%E8%A5%BF%E6%AD%AA?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#西西歪</a> <a title="ccwhyao" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/ccwhyao?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#Ccwhyao</a> <a title="種族奇事" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/%E7%A8%AE%E6%97%8F%E5%A5%87%E4%BA%8B?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#種族奇事</a> <a title="racewonderland" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/racewonderland?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#racewonderland</a> <a title="malaysia" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/malaysia?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#malaysia</a> <a title="malaysian" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/malaysian?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#malaysian</a> <a title="kaum" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/kaum?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#KAUM</a> <a title="tigakaumutamadimalaysia" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/tigakaumutamadimalaysia?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#TigakaumutamadiMalaysia</a> <a title="orangasingdimalaysia" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/orangasingdimalaysia?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#orangasingdimalaysia</a> <a title="♬ original sound - racewonderland" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-racewonderland-7523142388240485121?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ original sound - racewonderland</a></section>
</blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>

&ldquo;Salaries in Malaysia are definitely lower than in Japan. But for me, that&rsquo;s okay,&rdquo; she explained, in a calm but purposeful tone.
Her decision may seem surprising. Japan, after all, is often admired for its advanced economy, global job opportunities, and higher average wages. But for her, the money wasn&rsquo;t enough to compensate for the toll it was taking on her mental and emotional health.
Behind Japan&rsquo;s Salary Illusion: The True Cost of High Pay
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4f00dcdd7cb1f0023ab454c72237cac8f17e8f8cbb86a5e765cf3cd74d47aa72" />
While Malaysians often view working in Japan as a dream &mdash; with its clean cities, disciplined work ethic, and reputation for high salaries &mdash; the woman revealed that the reality is far more complex.
She described Japan&rsquo;s demanding work culture, which frequently involves long nights, little to no paid leave, and rigid routines that leave little room for a personal life. Even with a higher gross income, she said her take-home pay was significantly eroded by income taxes of up to 30%.
&ldquo;Many Malaysians say salaries in Japan are very high. That&rsquo;s true, but what they don&rsquo;t know is that the actual take-home pay is low because of the tax. Every time I received my salary in Japan, I felt sad,&rdquo; she admitted.
She spoke candidly about how the fast-paced corporate environment in Japan slowly wore her down. The routine, the long hours, the constant stress &mdash; it all added up to a life that felt more like survival than living.
A Fresh Start in Malaysia: Embracing a Balanced Life
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/eebbedbc298bc190032a8661d6c7efd8633d269ac5a0fd1a9a226b512ed16e58" />
In contrast, her experience in Malaysia has been notably different. Here, she found what had long been missing in her life: a sense of balance.
&ldquo;Life here feels lighter,&rdquo; she shared.
Although salaries in Malaysia are lower, she found the cost of living more manageable, particularly when viewed through the lens of how much freedom she now has after work. Gone are the late nights and rushed mornings. In their place: leisure, rest, and time to simply enjoy her day.
She&rsquo;s discovered a version of success that isn&rsquo;t built on numbers or job titles, but on emotional wellbeing and personal time &mdash; a sentiment that is increasingly being echoed by workers around the world, especially in the post-pandemic era.
Her story has struck a chord with many Malaysians, particularly those who are themselves reevaluating what they want from their careers and how much they are willing to give up for a paycheque.
Why Her Story Resonates with Malaysians
In a society where the pressure to keep up is constant &mdash; from side hustles to social media comparisons &mdash; her story is a refreshing reminder that less can sometimes be more.
While many young Malaysians are encouraged to hustle harder, chase international jobs, and constantly strive for upward mobility, this woman chose instead to step back, slow down, and prioritise her wellbeing. In doing so, she offered a counter-narrative to the conventional definition of success.
The response to her story shows just how widespread the feeling of burnout has become. For many, the idea of sacrificing a larger paycheque in exchange for peace, health, and time is becoming less radical and more reasonable.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments on social media:
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c49e89dedeab913d5370a6492a2397fa317ce31d33e2833d6ee42bbaab7f1d6f" />
Rethinking Success in a Post-Burnout World
Her quiet but powerful message invites us to ask: What is success, really? Is it a salary bracket? A job title? A lifestyle curated for others? Or is it the ability to wake up without dread, finish work before sunset, and have the energy to live the rest of your life?
As more people begin to question whether constant hustle is sustainable &mdash; or even worth it &mdash; stories like hers offer a compelling perspective. In choosing Malaysia over Japan, and peace over pay, she reminds us that success isn&rsquo;t just about making a living &mdash; it&rsquo;s about having a life worth living.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Choosing Peace Over Pay: A Japanese Woman’s Journey To A Simpler Life In Malaysia

After weeks of speculation and cryptic teasers, it&rsquo;s now official &mdash; My Chemical Romance (MCR) is making their long-awaited return to Malaysia in 2026 as part of their global tour, &ldquo;Long Live The Black Parade.&rdquo; The American rock band confirmed the news on 7 July 2025, sending fans into a frenzy across social media.
The band is set to perform at Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on 30 April 2026 (Thursday), marking their first show in Malaysia since December 2007, when they played a rain-soaked, emotionally charged gig at Stadium Merdeka as part of The Black Parade Tour.
For many fans, that night became an unforgettable memory &mdash; drenched in rain, screaming along to Welcome to the Black Parade and Helena, eyeliner running, but spirits high. Now, almost two decades later, the band is returning &mdash; and Malaysian fans are more than ready.
Who Are My Chemical Romance?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fd86a9440c7a1400977be667cc2ae940bb39902f9abcc4081a93d302eb7ec5e7" />
Formed in New Jersey in 2001, My Chemical Romance (MCR) rose to become one of the most influential rock bands of the 2000s, known for their theatrical style, emotionally charged lyrics, and genre-defining contributions to emo and alternative rock. The original lineup included Gerard Way (lead vocals), Mikey Way (bass), Ray Toro (lead guitar), Frank Iero (rhythm guitar), and Matt Pelissier (drums), who was later replaced by Bob Bryar in 2004.
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MCR broke into the mainstream with their 2004 album Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge, featuring iconic tracks like &ldquo;Helena&rdquo;, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m Not Okay (I Promise)&rdquo;, and &ldquo;The Ghost of You&rdquo;. Their magnum opus came in 2006 with The Black Parade, a concept album that delivered anthem after anthem, including the epic &ldquo;Welcome to the Black Parade&rdquo;, &ldquo;Famous Last Words&rdquo;, and &ldquo;Teenagers&rdquo;&mdash;solidifying their status as rock legends.
The band disbanded in 2013 to the heartbreak of fans worldwide but reunited in 2019, kicking off a long-awaited global comeback tour. Their influence continues to resonate with both longtime listeners and a new generation discovering their music through social media and pop culture.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5ee97ceef1e636ffbc5b6b9624c609cb211aed8dff796d523cd47358da21fcc1" />
Tragically, former drummer Bob Bryar, who played a key role during the band&rsquo;s peak years, passed away in March 2024. His contributions to The Black Parade and countless live performances left an enduring legacy within the band and the broader rock scene.
My Chemical Romance has received numerous accolades, including MTV Music Awards, Kerrang! Awards, and NME Awards, and was named one of Rolling Stone&rsquo;s top emo bands of all time. Their impact on fashion, fandom culture, and emotional expression in music has made them more than just a band&mdash;they&rsquo;re a cultural movement.
Part of a Larger Asian Tour
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f3bdbe217ef9c19d7c44d2b93d2a79924752418fdf6bee2959d92e0b837e7dee" />
The Kuala Lumpur stop is part of MCR&rsquo;s wider Southeast Asian leg of the tour, which begins in April 2026 following shows in North and Latin America. The confirmed tour dates in Asia are as follows:
<ul>
<li>18 April 2026 &ndash; Incheon, South Korea (Paradise City Culture Park)</li>
<li>22 April 2026 &ndash; Bangkok, Thailand (IMPACT Challenger Hall)</li>
<li>25 April 2026 &ndash; Bulacan, Philippines (Philippine Arena)</li>
<li>28 April 2026 &ndash; Singapore (Indoor Stadium)</li>
<li>30 April 2026 &ndash; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Bukit Jalil National Stadium)</li>
<li>3 May 2026 &ndash; Jakarta, Indonesia (Hammersonic Festival)</li>
</ul>
This tour marks a continuation of MCR&rsquo;s global comeback following their 2019 reunion. The Long Live The Black Parade tour is expected to showcase a mix of their iconic anthems and newer material, promising fans a nostalgic and emotional night.
Viral Teasers and Fan Anticipation
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/886f83bc71acc0c994b2910350300fe0defbb18a88dc06ee3608de1abab2cd83" />
Hints of the band&rsquo;s return first emerged in recent months, with mysterious MCR-themed billboards appearing around Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley. The visual campaign quickly went viral, triggering widespread speculation among fans. Fuel was added to the fire when Warner Music Malaysia posted a series of MCR-related videos on their social media accounts.
These teasers sparked hope among the Malaysian fanbase, and now that the date is confirmed, excitement has reached fever pitch. The band officially shared the announcement via their social media platforms on Monday morning, solidifying Kuala Lumpur as one of their key stops in Asia.
What We Know So Far
The details for the Kuala Lumpur concert are still unfolding. Here&rsquo;s what&rsquo;s been confirmed so far:
My Chemical Romance &ndash; Long Live The Black Parade Tour
<ul>
<li>Date: 30 April 2026 (Thursday)</li>
<li>Venue: National Stadium Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur</li>
<li>Time: To be announced</li>
<li>Organiser: To be confirmed</li>
<li>Ticketing Information: To be announced</li>
</ul>
Fans are encouraged to keep an eye on MCR&rsquo;s official channels and local event partners for ticket sales, seat maps, and pricing, which are expected to be released soon.
From Stadium Merdeka to Bukit Jalil: A New Chapter
It&rsquo;s been 18 long years since the band last graced a Malaysian stage, but the emotional connection between MCR and their fans has remained strong. The 2007 performance at Stadium Merdeka drew over 10,000 fans despite the rain, solidifying their place in the hearts of local alternative rock lovers.
Now, MCR&rsquo;s return to Malaysia&rsquo;s biggest stadium &mdash; Bukit Jalil &mdash; is set to be one of the most highly anticipated rock events of 2026.
So if you've been waiting patiently since your teenage years, it&rsquo;s time to dust off that faded MCR tee, rewatch the Welcome to the Black Parade music video, and emotionally prepare for the opening piano notes that still hit just as hard.
Are you looking forward to their concert? Let us know in the comments!
In the meantime, time to rewind your childhood with their tunes on Spotify:
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&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Mark your calendars, it’s time to bring out your inner emo kid once again.

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My Chemical Romance Confirms Malaysia Return In 2026 After 18-Years!

Malaysia&rsquo;s top men&rsquo;s singles shuttler, Lee Zii Jia, has stirred significant public attention following a series of cryptic black-and-white illustrations he shared on Instagram, leading to widespread speculation about his emotional and mental wellbeing. However, the National Sports Council (NSC) has since issued a statement urging the public not to read too much into the posts, assuring fans that the 27-year-old athlete is in good health and simply exploring his artistic side.
Cryptic Instagram Posts Raise Eyebrows Among Fans 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1f311ab98a57e8bb6368a1285f9539c5a7f0498c3507e1ff059f03aff101389d" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4421/lee-zii-jias-troubling-instagram-post-sparks-widespread-concern-over-athlete-mental-health">Lee Zii Jia&rsquo;s Troubling Instagram Post Sparks Widespread Concern Over Athlete Mental Health</a>
Last week, Lee uploaded several eerie, monochrome images to his personal Instagram account. The illustrations included dark and symbolic visuals such as a face appearing to burn, a bloodied body slumped on a sofa, and mysterious figures in shadowy settings. Perhaps most notably, he changed his profile picture to a fully black image, without offering any accompanying captions or explanations.
The striking visuals, combined with the absence of context, quickly sparked concern across social media. The posts have garnered more than 135,000 likes and over 3,600 comments, many of them from worried fans asking, &ldquo;Are you alright, Zii Jia?&rdquo; Some interpreted the artwork as a subtle cry for help, pointing to the common use of art as a medium for emotional expression.
NSC and Sports Ministry Reassure the Public
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/26080c78c2d27a74d47f4e8916696cfecb5db5d0f4002487bd53cab9a799a780" />
In response to the growing speculation, NSC Director-General Jefri Ngadirin confirmed that the organisation had contacted Team LZJ, Lee&rsquo;s management, to inquire about the reasoning behind the posts. The matter was also escalated to the Youth and Sports Minister, Hannah Yeoh, who joined in seeking clarification.
&ldquo;His team told us there&rsquo;s nothing to worry about,&rdquo; Jeffri said. &ldquo;It might just be that Zii Jia has a genuine personal interest in that particular art style and wanted to share it with his followers.&rdquo;
Jeffri also clarified that Lee&rsquo;s teammates and close friends had not noticed any behavioural changes or signs of psychological distress. While acknowledging the visual intensity of the artwork, he stressed that it may simply reflect the way younger generations express themselves creatively on digital platforms.
&ldquo;This could just be a form of artistic self-expression,&rdquo; Jeffri added. &ldquo;Let him express himself in the way he chooses.&rdquo;
Nonetheless, Jeffri emphasised that both the NSC and the National Sports Institute (ISN) remain on standby to offer any form of support&mdash;whether physical, emotional, or mental&mdash;should it be needed by Lee or his team in future.
Mental Health Professionals Urge Calm and Understanding
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8cbc44af56a202e4f1a7cf50168fcb43003a1242e69f010dab3f790ea96df8db" />
Amid the public discussion, mental health experts have weighed in to discourage the tendency to jump to conclusions based solely on social media content.
Dr Eugene Koh, a psychiatrist from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), explained that people often explore complex emotions through creative outlets such as drawing, writing, or even watching intense films. He noted that just because the imagery is dark or dramatic does not necessarily indicate a mental health issue.
&ldquo;It could mean anything,&rdquo; Dr Koh said during an interview with Nadi Arena. &ldquo;I have acquaintances who release their emotions through art or by immersing themselves in horror films. It&rsquo;s just a way of processing feelings. Not everything needs to be pathologised.&rdquo;
His sentiments were echoed by Dr Rebecca Wong, a clinical psychologist who has followed Lee&rsquo;s sporting journey closely, including his recent bronze medal performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
&ldquo;Only Zii Jia truly understands what the images mean and what they represent for him,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;Every athlete experiences stress to varying degrees. If the pressure becomes too overwhelming, it&rsquo;s important to seek help early.&rdquo;
Both experts agreed that while vigilance is essential, people should refrain from diagnosing someone based on limited online clues. Instead, they called for a more empathetic understanding of how young athletes navigate fame, expectations, and personal expression.
Symbolism Misunderstood or Misread?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/856dc51146c37833405b063b06180b7f1cad4b74eda8a73f4a158f1f15f0dc1a" />
Much of the public reaction may stem from the disturbing tone of some of the illustrations. For instance, one particularly unsettling image appeared to show a face pierced with needles&mdash;an image that many associated with pain or despair. The total absence of captions added to the sense of mystery and ambiguity.
In the age of social media, such artistic choices often invite wild interpretations. To some, the blacked-out profile picture and symbolic imagery suggested feelings of loss, isolation, or even depression. However, Jeffri and the NSC maintain that there is no indication of such issues from Lee&rsquo;s inner circle.
Comeback Set for Japan Open in Mid-July
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6efcdccd9a7afbd2aea3799fc5b5cbe4e38210ac8708a0a74da6287ad81fa386" />
Putting the social media drama aside, Lee Zii Jia is preparing to return to the international badminton circuit. The world No. 27 is expected to compete at the upcoming Japan Open, scheduled from 15 to 20 July 2025.
His world ranking dipped following an extended break due to a right ankle injury sustained during the World Tour Finals in December 2024. Since the beginning of 2025, Lee has only participated in two tournaments, prompting fans to worry not just about his form, but also his motivation and mental state.
Despite the speculation, his scheduled appearance in Japan indicates a positive step forward in his physical recovery and professional focus.
Public Support Continues as Zii Jia Remains Silent
As of now, Lee has not issued any official statement explaining the meaning behind the posts. Nevertheless, fans continue to flood the comment sections with words of encouragement, expressing hope that their badminton hero remains strong both mentally and physically.
Whether the posts were a form of introspective reflection, artistic curiosity, or simply aesthetic experimentation, the consensus from professionals and officials is clear: Lee Zii Jia is fine, and his fans have nothing to fear.
In the meantime, should anyone&mdash;athletes or members of the public&mdash;find themselves struggling emotionally, help is always available. Befrienders Malaysia can be contacted at 03-7627 2929. Remember, you are never alone.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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All is well and he’ll be back in action at the Japan Open on 15 July.

5067a92c702af6ce8c6581538beffad938b7266551b38eb74a2baacc97d0b32b

NSC Addresses Concerns Over Lee Zii Jia’s Artistic Posts: “Just Appreciating Art”

The newly upgraded Aerotrain at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is already under scrutiny following technical issues that occurred just one day after its relaunch. The Aerotrain, which links the Main Terminal with the Satellite Building, resumed operations on 1 July after a RM456 million upgrade. However, on 2 July, social media users reported that the service had already malfunctioned, raising alarm among travellers and netizens alike.
One Facebook user, Ahmad Ramadzan Soid, shared a photo of officials attending to the stalled Aerotrain at KLIA Terminal 1. In another post, Ashish Kale uploaded a photo of travellers boarding shuttle buses, suggesting the train was out of service.
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At the time of reporting, no formal explanation was provided by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) as to whether the disruption was caused by a technical fault or part of post-launch operational fine-tuning. Regardless, the public response reflected disappointment that such an incident could occur so soon after a costly revamp.
Second Disruption Caused by Flooded Tunnel
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a5261c1e5f3285a2fac225244a6e89953289c811edbb80d697244f485175baed" />
Barely two days later, on 4 July, Aerotrain services were again suspended, this time due to water accumulation in the tunnel following heavy rainfall. According to MAHB, a drainage pump failed to activate automatically, preventing the removal of floodwater.
As a precaution, train operations were halted until the water was manually cleared and the safety of the tracks confirmed. The service resumed at 12.15pm that day. MAHB assured that technical teams were working to resolve the issue and are monitoring the system closely during this early phase of operations. Shuttle buses were deployed to maintain connectivity between terminals.
MAHB has also committed to improving the tunnel&rsquo;s drainage systems to prevent similar incidents in future weather events.
Netizens React: Sarcasm and Frustration
News of the malfunctions quickly made waves online. Many Malaysians responded with sarcasm, frustration and concern, particularly over the amount of public funds involved.
&ldquo;RM456 million and it&rsquo;s flooding already? Might as well have built a waterpark,&rdquo; one user commented.
&ldquo;No point in having shiny new trains if we&rsquo;re going to be wading through water,&rdquo; said another.
&ldquo;Even the shuttle buses felt more reliable. If this is the start, what&rsquo;s next?&rdquo;
Others expressed concern about the long-term durability of the project and called for greater transparency and accountability from authorities.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/f37c3439d339da9bd9c03f8187ccb3705a591464368e558fe86c212f49ec8f16" />
Anwar Ibrahim: Praise and Optimism at Relaunch
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1719b2e2233c29f4645870f4d9258953594eb8661176f925a0dd1c60628c86d9" />
During the official relaunch on 1 July, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim praised the revamped Aerotrain for its speed and efficiency. Accompanied by Transport Minister Anthony Loke and MAHB managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani, Anwar rode the new driverless train between the Contact Pier and Satellite Building before departing for a diplomatic tour to Europe and South America.
Anwar described the Aerotrain experience as &ldquo;good&rdquo; and &ldquo;faster than before&rdquo;, highlighting the importance of the upgrade in enhancing KLIA&rsquo;s capacity as a regional travel hub. He also emphasised that such improvements are essential as the country prepares to welcome an influx of tourists under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
The Alstom Innovia APM 300R train system, now in operation, can carry up to 270 passengers at speeds of 56 km/h, reducing terminal transfer time to under three minutes. MAHB confirmed that the new trains had undergone six months of testing under the supervision of the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) before the relaunch.
Moving Forward: Reliability Is Key
The Aerotrain is a vital component of KLIA&rsquo;s infrastructure, especially for the airport&rsquo;s 100,000 daily passengers, many of whom rely on it for timely terminal transfers. The back-to-back disruptions have raised public concerns about the long-term reliability of the system, particularly in the face of Malaysia&rsquo;s frequent heavy rainfall.
Given the RM456 million spent on the Aerotrain and the broader RM742 million refurbishment plan, there is now heightened public expectation for consistent performance. As the country gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026, stakeholders must ensure the system not only operates smoothly but is also resilient to weather and operational challenges.
MAHB's ability to respond to these early hiccups with transparency, quick fixes and long-term planning will be crucial in regaining public trust and maintaining Malaysia&rsquo;s standing as a leading regional aviation hub.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Service was briefly paused after rainwater flooded the tunnel; operations have resumed.

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