Nabil Luqman

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Social

Thailand

LGBTQ

marriage

pride

inclusivity

southeastasia

equality

In Asia, discussing equality and LGBTIQA+ rights remains highly sensitive, often conflicting with deeply rooted religious and cultural beliefs. This sensitivity is particularly pronounced in Malaysia, where such discussions are among the most contentious. Religious authorities closely monitor these matters, exemplified by the recent case involving Swatch. The company filed a lawsuit against the Malaysian government after the confiscation of its Pride collection watches valued at RM64,000, which were criminalized under local law.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/2632/swatch-malaysia-files-lawsuit-against-government-over-confiscated-pride-watches-valued-at-rm64000">Swatch Malaysia Files Lawsuit Against Government Over Confiscated Pride Watches Valued At RM64,000</a>
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/2690/own-a-swatch-pride-watch-well-its-now-a-criminal-offence">Own A Swatch Pride Watch? Well, Its Now A Criminal Offence.</a>
However, attitudes towards supporting LGBTIQA+ rights vary widely across different countries and cultures, with some having no specific or stringent laws governing these matters. This has led to the legalization of same-sex marriages in Western countries. Recently, however, there has been a notable shift in our neighbouring countries to the north.
Thailand Passes Marriage Equality Law &amp; Becomes First Country In Southeast Asia To Do So
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/109bb4a9b6b8589f2c28ecdd6f00e941015a042c93f86a4a0912ce02fe8432a0" />
After more than twenty years of advocacy efforts by activists and politicians, a long-awaited bill has finally advanced through the parliament after previous versions failed to reach this stage.
With overwhelming support from nearly all members of the upper house, the legislation now awaits royal approval and is slated to take effect 120 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette.
Advocates for LGBT rights hailed this development as a "historic leap forward," positioning Thailand to become the first nation in Southeast Asia and the third in Asia, following Nepal and Taiwan, to legalize same-sex marriage.
"We are immensely proud to be part of this historic moment," remarked Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, a member of the parliamentary committee on same-sex marriage. "Today marks a victory over prejudice as we achieve marriage equality after more than two decades of struggle."
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/58423d1592cb7996a666117135fb88da418b5dca862c5651b76dbb32b69efb6b" />
Lawmakers and activists jubilantly marked the legislative milestone within Thailand's parliament, joyously waving rainbow flags and expressing solidarity with the LGBT community through raised fists.
Another significant aspect of the law's passage is its provision allowing same-sex couples to adopt children. Currently, adoption in Thailand is restricted to heterosexual couples, although single women can adopt children with special needs.
"The amendment of this law aims to benefit all Thai people. It marks the beginning of creating equality," stated Punnakanta, highlighting the country's efforts to update its laws to reflect contemporary realities.
Thailand Known For Its Vibrant LGBTIQA+ Culture
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c744f05f23222109e92f504f9e60675cd79ed409fd76dbc905244e1a9c289891" alt="" width="852" height="568" />
In early June, a vibrant procession of thousands of celebrants and activists flooded the streets of Bangkok, accompanied by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin sporting a rainbow shirt in honour of Pride Month.
According to a statement from the Civil Society Commission advocating for marriage equality, activists, and LGBTQI couples, this event underscores Thailand's leadership in the region in championing human rights and gender equality.
How Is Same-Sex Relationships Or Marriage Viewed In Other Countries? 
Thailand stands out as only the third Asian territory to embrace marriage equality, a milestone that contrasts sharply with the region's overall slow progress in granting LGBTQ+ rights, where community members frequently encounter discrimination, prejudice, and even violence.
Religious conservatism and colonial-era laws continue to pose significant challenges for the LGBTQ+ community across Southeast Asia. In several countries such as Myanmar and Brunei, same-sex relations remain criminalized. Indonesia, while not criminalizing homosexual sex nationwide except in Aceh, has seen widespread discrimination, police raids, vigilante attacks, and hostility from authorities and Islamic groups. The country's new Criminal Code, enacted in 2022, criminalizes consensual sex outside marriage, disproportionately affecting LGBTQ+ individuals who cannot legally marry.
In Malaysia, homosexuality remains illegal, with penalties including fines and up to 20 years in prison, reflecting a growing conservatism in the predominantly Muslim nation. Rights groups criticize Malaysia's government for fostering an increasingly intolerant environment toward the LGBTQ+ community.
Singapore repealed its colonial-era law against sex between men in 2022, yet the government maintains opposition to gay marriage and implements policies making it challenging to legally contest governmental decisions. Married couples in Singapore enjoy greater housing subsidies and adoption rights compared to single individuals.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/57cc9257afcdcd14e5f0125f2abb55dce98297911188dbd83a48f3edbec68517" />
Japan stands out within the Group of Seven (G7) nations for not recognizing same-sex civil unions or marriage, despite constitutional court rulings asserting the unconstitutionality of denying same-sex couples the right to marry.
In India, a landmark 2023 ruling by the Supreme Court declined to legally recognize same-sex unions, despite advocacy efforts seeking marriage rights under Indian law. Meanwhile, in China, they intensified crackdowns on LGBTQ activists and organizations, reflecting President Xi Jinping's emphasis on the Communist Party's control over society.
Lastly in South Korea, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized, and the military penal code criminalizes same-sex relations between men, drawing international criticism. Recent court decisions have offered some progress, such as granting equal health benefits to same-sex couples. Throughout various jurisdictions, LGBTQ+ campaigners continue to achieve incremental gains through legal challenges, despite enduring obstacles.
While Malaysia may not currently entertain the prospect of such progressive legislation, Thailand's step forward in legalizing same-sex marriage in 2024 sends a powerful message. For those seeking more inclusive environments or facing stringent laws elsewhere, this development could potentially resonate as a beacon of hope and choice.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Lawmakers emphasize the need to update laws in line with contemporary values and societal changes.

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Thailand Breaks Ground As First Southeast Asian Nation To Embrace Marriage Equality

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Scentify

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Oatside

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Rohto

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The Malaysian government is making significant strides towards implementing a dedicated anti-scalping law, following widespread frustration among concertgoers and event fans over inflated resale prices and fraudulent ticket sales. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil confirmed that detailed discussions are now underway between the Ministry of Communications and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), aimed at formulating legislation to combat scalping, particularly within the live events sector.
The move comes in the wake of repeated controversies surrounding ticket scalping in Malaysia &mdash; most notably during Coldplay&rsquo;s sold-out 2023 concert in Kuala Lumpur, where tickets were quickly snapped up and resold at astronomical prices. With no legal framework currently in place to prohibit or regulate such practices, resellers have been operating freely, often at the expense of genuine fans and event organisers.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c6d68a6f82d0136d1e0d8f40585131458b54462cca20f215768ff1e8bbad8e64" />
Speaking to Malay Mail, Fahmi said his deputy, Teo Nie Ching, has been engaging with key industry stakeholders, including local ticketing platforms and the Association of Live Event Organisers (ALIFE), to explore the best mechanisms for enforcement. &ldquo;There are active discussions between KPDN and the Communications Ministry,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We're listening carefully to feedback from industry players to ensure the law is effective and enforceable.&rdquo;
Proposals Include ID Verification and Tougher Penalties
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One of the core proposals under consideration involves the introduction of identification (ID) verification at entry points. This system would require ticket holders to present the same identification used during the online purchase process, matching the name printed on the ticket with a valid government-issued document.
&ldquo;This approach was adopted in Indonesia and, while not entirely foolproof, has helped reduce the scale of ticket scalping there,&rdquo; Fahmi explained. &ldquo;We believe a similar measure could be adapted here, though implementation logistics are still being reviewed.&rdquo;
Malaysia currently lacks any law that expressly bans ticket reselling above face value, meaning that scalpers continue to exploit fans through inflated resale prices or fake listings. This legal loophole has significantly hindered authorities&rsquo; ability to take action against resellers, despite public outcry and repeated calls for regulation.
Although a draft law has yet to be finalised, the government has pledged to continue its consultations with ALIFE and other industry players. Fahmi noted that ALIFE is currently in the process of gathering feedback from its members before returning to the ministry with further recommendations. A concrete timeline for when the Bill will be tabled in Parliament, however, has yet to be announced.
Surging Live Event Sector Amplifies Scalping Problem
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/65ae10c8e375a20c68922c5a2d0a123de16db0891ce383e8eaaaa4f664ee4fb7" />
Malaysia&rsquo;s live entertainment sector has witnessed a rapid resurgence since the country reopened post-pandemic, further intensifying the scalping issue. According to Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, live events have played a crucial role in reviving Malaysia&rsquo;s tourism economy, stimulating business in accommodation, dining, retail, and travel sectors.
In 2024 alone, Malaysia hosted 408 concerts &mdash; a substantial increase from 335 in 2023 and nearly four times the 108 concerts recorded in 2022. This growth, while positive for the economy, has also made high-demand events a prime target for ticket resellers looking to exploit shortages and desperate fans.
The secondary market has become a battleground, with tickets for major acts such as Coldplay, Blackpink, and Ed Sheeran often being resold within minutes of general release &mdash; sometimes at double or triple the original price. In some cases, fans have also fallen victim to fraudulent sales and ticket duplication, leaving them locked out of events they had paid significant sums to attend.
The situation has not only drawn criticism from consumers but also from artists, promoters, and international observers, many of whom have called on Malaysian authorities to strengthen consumer protections and level the playing field for fans.
Global Case Studies: How Other Countries Tackled Scalping
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ecd2727bcd1701977e15c1924681a8a86f9f09b3d5443e06a2cae62d650b9a10" />
As Malaysia moves closer to implementing its own anti-scalping legislation, policymakers are studying examples from abroad to identify best practices and potential pitfalls.
In the United States, the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act was passed in 2016 to prohibit the use of automated bots and software to circumvent ticketing platform limits and security features. The law also bars individuals from reselling tickets knowingly obtained through such illegal means. Violations of the Act are subject to enforcement by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which has the power to impose significant financial penalties. In 2021, the FTC and Department of Justice took legal action against three New York-based ticket brokers accused of illegally acquiring over 150,000 tickets, reselling them for millions in profit. A combined civil penalty of over US$31 (~RM131 million) million was levied, though later reduced due to the defendants&rsquo; financial situation.
The United Kingdom also addressed the issue in 2018 by amending the Digital Economy Act, criminalising the use of bots to bulk-buy event tickets. The UK law focuses on cracking down on "secondary ticketing" platforms and resellers who significantly mark up prices. Those found in breach of the law face unlimited fines.
In Canada, although there is no federal anti-scalping law, provinces such as Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia have enacted their own legislation. The Ticket Sales Act, enforced at the provincial level, bans the use of automated purchasing software and restricts bulk purchases. Violators face substantial fines and possible imprisonment.
These models offer valuable insights into how Malaysia might tailor its own version of an anti-scalping law &mdash; though officials have yet to confirm whether the legislation will be limited to live events or broadened to include sectors such as gaming, electronics, and merchandise where scalping is also prevalent.
Fans Hope for Fairer Access &mdash; But When Will the Law Arrive?
Although the government&rsquo;s intentions have been welcomed by both fans and industry stakeholders, many remain cautious, pointing to previous delays in bringing similar consumer protection laws to fruition. With no fixed date for parliamentary debate, questions remain over how quickly the proposed anti-scalping framework will be finalised and whether it will be ready in time to protect fans ahead of another packed concert calendar in 2025.
Still, the current momentum signals a growing recognition within the government that consumer confidence must be restored in Malaysia&rsquo;s burgeoning entertainment scene. If passed, the law would mark a significant step forward in ensuring fairer access to live events &mdash; and a major win for Malaysian fans long frustrated by ticketing injustice.
Let&rsquo;s hope the law comes into effect soon &mdash; but with My Chemical Romance tickets going on sale tomorrow (Friday, 11 July), it&rsquo;s likely that scalpers will once again flood the secondary market before real fans even get a chance.
For now, all we can do is hope the authorities act swiftly and decisively to curb this growing issue. What do you think? Should scalping be criminalised in Malaysia? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Government responds to public outcry over ticket resale abuse. 

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Malaysia Moves Closer To Introducing National Anti-Scalping Law

Malaysian actor, TV host, and former Miss Grand Malaysia, Lishalliny Kanaran, has publicly come forward with disturbing allegations of sexual assault by a Hindu temple priest in Selangor. What was meant to be a quiet moment of spiritual reflection turned into a harrowing ordeal, one that the 28-year-old said has left her mentally scarred and emotionally broken.
On 21 June, Lishalliny visited a well-known temple in Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi, alone. Her mother was away in India at the time, and she had recently begun turning towards religion, exploring her spirituality more deeply. Though she had never been particularly devout before, she described feeling a sense of peace at the temple &mdash; a place she visited regularly and where a priest had been guiding her through rituals. That trust, she now claims, was exploited.
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In an emotional post on Instagram, Lishalliny recounted the events of that day, saying that while she was engaged in her prayers, the priest approached her and offered to bless her with holy water and a protective string &mdash; a common Hindu ritual. After completing her prayers, she said the priest asked her to meet him in an office within the temple grounds. She waited for roughly half an hour as he completed blessings for other devotees.
But once inside the office, things quickly took a dark turn.
A Ritual Turned Invasive
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e5fd9e6729d103129d1a6f2f35b629012dc236078180d9df7627a0d30c72a132" />
According to Lishalliny&rsquo;s statement, the priest poured a strong-smelling liquid &mdash; described as rose or flower essence &mdash; into a container of holy water, claiming it was a sacred substance from India that was not typically used on &ldquo;ordinary people.&rdquo; He began splashing the water aggressively onto her face, to the point that her eyes stung and she was momentarily blinded.
He then allegedly asked her to lift her Punjabi suit, which she declined, citing that the blouse underneath was tight. Despite her refusal, the priest continued the ritual while standing behind her. Lishalliny alleged that it was then that he put his hands inside her blouse and under her bra, touching her inappropriately. She described being frozen in fear, unable to move or speak &mdash; a reaction many victims of sexual trauma experience.
&ldquo;He murmured prayers and held my head. And then, without warning, he put his hands into my blouse,&rdquo; she wrote. &ldquo;My brain knew everything about that moment was wrong, and yet I couldn&rsquo;t move. I couldn&rsquo;t speak. I froze.&rdquo;
According to her, the priest went even further, telling her: &ldquo;It would be a blessing if you did &lsquo;it&rsquo; with me, because I serve God.&rdquo; After the incident, she said he casually told her: &ldquo;This will be a lucky week for you. I&rsquo;ve done this for you.&rdquo;
The shock and betrayal were overwhelming. What was meant to be a safe, sacred environment had been corrupted &mdash; and the damage left behind was deeply personal.
Silence, Shame, and the Strength to Speak Up
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/73e0bd59641fdb3f6cd2e4d4a0caedeb49840627fb82ee1564137bd9907f4686" />
For nearly two weeks, Lishalliny kept the incident to herself. She described crying herself to sleep, plagued by shame and fear, unable to make sense of what had happened.
&ldquo;I couldn&rsquo;t sleep because every time I closed my eyes, it replays in my head. I didn&rsquo;t know who to tell. I was ashamed,&rdquo; she confessed in her post. &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve always seen myself as strong and brave &mdash; and yet I was broken.&rdquo;
When her mother returned to Malaysia on 4 July, Lishalliny finally opened up about the assault. Her family responded immediately. Accompanied by her mother and two brothers, she went back to the temple to confront the priest &mdash; but was informed by temple management that he was no longer there.
According to Lishalliny, temple authorities appeared more concerned with their reputation than her allegations. &ldquo;Apparently, someone had already reported him before &mdash; and no action was taken,&rdquo; she said. The chairman allegedly downplayed any relationship with the priest, claiming he had &ldquo;only met him once&rdquo; and did not know his whereabouts.
Undeterred, Lishalliny and her family lodged a police report on the same day.
A Widening Investigation
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d81ab470385f8de4be0978dfbc0b937520ee08f0943595c08e2bed84270cf02b" />
The case is now under investigation by the Sepang district police, with Assistant Commissioner Norhizam Bahaman confirming that the incident occurred at a Hindu temple in Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi.
The priest in question, an Indian national, was reportedly only a temporary replacement, brought in while the temple&rsquo;s resident priest was overseas. Authorities say his modus operandi involved sprinkling holy water on the victim as part of a ritual, before allegedly molesting her.
The case is being investigated under Section 354 of the Penal Code for assault or use of criminal force with intent to outrage modesty &mdash; a charge that carries a maximum penalty of ten years' imprisonment, a fine, whipping, or any combination of these punishments upon conviction.
Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspect, who is believed to have fled the premises. They are urging anyone with information to contact the Sepang Police Headquarters or the lead investigating officer, Inspector Sathiyan Balrajoo.
Adding to the seriousness of the case, another woman came forward in the comments section of Lishalliny&rsquo;s Instagram post, alleging that she too had experienced a similar incident at the same temple on 30 June &mdash; just nine days after Lishalliny&rsquo;s ordeal. The case now raises questions about whether other victims may have been similarly harmed, and whether the temple failed in its duty of care.
Rallying Support and A Call for Change
Since going public, Lishalliny has received an outpouring of support from fellow Malaysians and international figures. Among them is Chinmayi Sripaada, an Indian playback singer and vocal advocate of the #MeToo movement, who commented on the post, urging Lishalliny to report the incident and reminded her: &ldquo;It is not and never your fault. It is not your shame.&rdquo;
Here&rsquo;s some comments from netizens online:
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/87aa36d5468f1897e1fe292d579365af623a2625194b8d1ff4e9fab2ba318c69" />
Despite being pressured to stay silent, Lishalliny has refused to back down. She made it clear that she is not seeking sympathy, but hoping to give courage to others who may have suffered in silence.
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m not writing this to victimise myself. I&rsquo;m writing this to voice out so that anyone else who has gone through something like this knows: you are not to blame. You did nothing wrong. And if you ever need someone, I&rsquo;m here. You are not alone.&rdquo;
Her bravery has ignited wider public discussion on sexual misconduct in religious settings, accountability of temple leadership, and the importance of safe spaces for women seeking solace, regardless of faith.
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*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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When a search for spirituality turns into trauma.

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Malaysian Actress & Pageant Winner Alleges Assault By Temple Priest In Selangor

Kuala Lumpur is set to welcome back one of South Korea&rsquo;s most beloved K-pop boy groups, WINNER, as part of their much-anticipated &ldquo;OUR MOMENT&rdquo; 2025 Asia Tour. Marking their first full concert in Malaysia since 2020, the group&rsquo;s return is a momentous occasion for local fans who have long awaited another opportunity to see their idols live on stage.
The official announcement was made on Tuesday, 8 July, by CQ Entertainment, who confirmed that Malaysia will be one of the tour&rsquo;s stops. WINNER is slated to perform in Kuala Lumpur on 1 November 2025 (Saturday). While the venue and ticketing details are still pending, the excitement has already begun to ripple across social media.
A Long-Awaited Comeback on Malaysian Soil
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/82f5e63e2e0149a75d93e0d81bab4767f5454c49b551f1985fb74543dbc14d4a" />
Formed under YG Entertainment, WINNER&mdash;comprising Kim Jin-woo, Lee Seung-hoon, Song Mino, and Kang Seung-yoon&mdash;first made waves in 2014 after emerging victorious on the survival show WIN: Who Is Next. Their debut album, 2014 S/S, was a critical and commercial success, with its lead single &ldquo;Empty&rdquo; topping charts and cementing the group as K-pop&rsquo;s emotional storytellers. Known for their melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics, WINNER carved out a distinct identity in an era dominated by high-energy pop.
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They followed up with a string of hits including &ldquo;Really Really,&rdquo; &ldquo;Everyday,&rdquo; &ldquo;Millions,&rdquo; &ldquo;Island,&rdquo; and &ldquo;Ah Yeah.&rdquo; Notably, Really Really became the first K-pop boy group song to surpass 100 million streams on Melon, showcasing their mainstream appeal and musical versatility.
Over the years, WINNER has collected numerous accolades, including Rookie of the Year at the Golden Disc Awards, Melon Music Awards, and Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA). In addition to group achievements, members like Song Mino have also built successful solo careers in music, fashion, and entertainment.
Despite a quieter period during the pandemic, WINNER has maintained a strong global presence and loyal fanbase, known as Inner Circle. The group last visited Malaysia in 2020, and now their return marks a new chapter in their career.
In May 2025, YG Entertainment announced that WINNER would hold a three-day special concert at Olympic Hall in Seoul this July, stirring excitement about a broader world tour. The group&rsquo;s upcoming tour will officially begin in Macau on 23 August, with additional stops in Bangkok, Taipei, Jakarta, Hong Kong, and Kuala Lumpur, fueling speculation about a long-awaited comeback album&mdash;possibly their first since Remember in 2020.
A Promising Setlist and Unforgettable Moments Await
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a9910b86cd625660cd992a432fd20a50dd53660499465019204e5a80e9436728" />
WINNER &ldquo;OUR MOMENT 2025 ASIA CONCERT&rdquo; in KUALA LUMPUR
<ul>
<li>Date:&nbsp;1st November 2025 (Saturday)</li>
<li>Venue:&nbsp;TBA</li>
<li>Organiser: CQ Entertainment</li>
</ul>
The &ldquo;OUR MOMENT&rdquo; tour is expected to reflect the group&rsquo;s artistic growth over the past few years, showcasing both musical maturity and continued fan dedication. For many, this tour isn&rsquo;t just a concert &mdash; it&rsquo;s a celebration of WINNER&rsquo;s legacy and the loyal community they&rsquo;ve built since their debut in 2014.
Their previous shows have been praised for high production value, emotional fan interactions, and tight choreography, and fans are hopeful that the Kuala Lumpur stop will be no exception.
Follow Official Channels for the Latest Updates
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e12aae32ae5994bb50211685bf08f65e1e26a1b352c68718638b2428b6b182b0" />
Fans are strongly encouraged to follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cq.entertainment/?hl=en">CQ Entertainment</a> on social media for up-to-date information on ticketing, seat maps, VIP packages, and venue announcements. Details are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks as the concert date approaches.
This upcoming show is just one of several major K-pop events set to hit Malaysia in 2025, reflecting the country&rsquo;s growing importance as a concert hub in the region. WINNER&rsquo;s return stands out not only for its significance to long-time fans but also as a testament to the ongoing global appeal of Korean pop music.
Whether you&rsquo;re a dedicated Inner Circle &mdash; the group&rsquo;s official fan club &mdash; or a casual listener, 1 November promises to be a night of nostalgia, joy, and unforgettable performances as WINNER takes the Kuala Lumpur stage once more.
In the meantime, you can listen to their music on Spotify below:
<iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/artist/5DuzBeOgFwViFcv00Q5PFb?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" loading="lazy"></iframe>
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Another day, another K-pop concert to look forward to!

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K-pop Sensation WINNER To Make Triumphant Return To Kuala Lumpur This November!

A 17-year-old British schoolboy has been missing for over a month after secretly boarding a flight to Malaysia without telling anyone, leaving his family devastated and desperate for answers. David Balisong, a top-performing A-Level student from Cheadle, Greater Manchester, was last seen on the morning of 6 June, when he left his family home under the pretence of going to school.
Instead, David quietly made his way to Manchester Airport, boarded a one-way flight to Kuala Lumpur, and has not been seen or heard from since. The teenager&rsquo;s sudden disappearance has shocked those who knew him &mdash; a quiet, high-achieving young man with no history of running away or behavioural issues.
His mother, Minerva Balisong, a 50-year-old critical care nurse, has made a heartfelt public appeal for David to get in touch, even just to confirm that he is alive. &ldquo;The emotion feels like a tsunami. We never saw this coming,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;We just want him to make contact. We&rsquo;re not angry &mdash; we love him more than he knows
No Warning Signs Before Departure
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/de878ec9815aa46001ff7f72ed685d15f8159529984e9964b37efc4f9d4a1220" />
David was midway through his A-Level exams at the time of his disappearance and had ambitions to study Computer Science at Manchester University, with dreams of one day working for NASA. According to his family, there were no warning signs leading up to his sudden departure.
&ldquo;He was healthy and happy. There was nothing wrong that we were aware of,&rdquo; said his mother. &ldquo;He is an ideal student and an ideal son. He&rsquo;s a homebody who always comes home. When he goes out, he asks for permission and keeps us updated.&rdquo;
On the day he vanished, David left home slightly earlier than usual &mdash; around 6.30am &mdash; and told his younger brother that he had &ldquo;some things to do at school.&rdquo; Unbeknownst to his family, he had packed his passport and headed straight to the airport to catch a 9.30am international flight.
Later that evening, when David failed to return home, his worried parents began making calls to the school and eventually discovered that his passport was missing. The next day, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that David had travelled alone and had entered Malaysia on a 90-day tourist visa.
At the time of his departure, David had only &pound;1,200 in his bank account, and the family says he has since switched off his phone and stopped replying to emails. Born in the UK to Filipino parents, David has no known connections or relatives in Malaysia, making his choice of destination even more perplexing.
Family Left Reeling and Now Preparing to Search in Malaysia
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2c088a76a6cf61c23a7c2fb75bca718142d716904d8d37e55e51c58bee44bd2b" />
The family, including David&rsquo;s father Lorenzo, 55, sister Faith, 16, and brother Daniel, 13, have been left in deep distress. They&rsquo;ve launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for travel, accommodation, and local support in Malaysia, where they hope to begin searching for David themselves.
&ldquo;We are doing everything we can to hold on and stay strong,&rdquo; said Minerva. &ldquo;We can&rsquo;t wait to hear from him or see him. If he doesn&rsquo;t want to return, that&rsquo;s his choice &mdash; but we just want to know that he&rsquo;s safe. That&rsquo;s all we need.&rdquo;
David&rsquo;s aunt, Tess Fulgencio, also took to Facebook to express her anguish: &ldquo;These have been the longest and hardest days our family has ever known &mdash; filled with waiting, searching, and holding on to hope. To the Stockport Police and GMP: thank you for your tireless efforts and commitment to bringing David home. Please know that your work means everything to us, even when words fall short.&rdquo;
The police continue to investigate the case and are urging anyone who may have information about David&rsquo;s whereabouts &mdash; either in the UK or Malaysia &mdash; to come forward. Witnesses or individuals with leads are encouraged to contact 101, quoting log number 3703 of 06/06/2025.
No Leads Yet, as Questions Mount Over Why He Left
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d04f7693d19af78c3059e1670a339a619e2b6ab9c34b40edc280a06dcac2e083" />
While authorities have confirmed his entry into Malaysia, no further sightings or credible leads have emerged in the weeks since. The case has puzzled both investigators and the wider public, with no clear motive or reasoning yet identified. Some have speculated that David may have been influenced by something or someone online, but nothing has been confirmed.
His family insists there were no signs of depression, abuse, or serious stress &mdash; beyond the usual pressure of exams &mdash; and have ruled out any known online grooming or radicalisation. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s a very logical, measured boy. This is so unlike him,&rdquo; said Minerva. &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve considered every possibility, but nothing makes sense. That&rsquo;s why this is so frightening.&rdquo;
The family&rsquo;s only hope now is that David will see the growing media coverage or the online fundraising campaign and reach out. &ldquo;We want him to know that he&rsquo;s loved, missed, and never alone,&rdquo; Minerva added.
As the 90-day visa period ticks down, and with no word from David, the family&rsquo;s concern is only growing. They are expected to arrive in Kuala Lumpur soon to begin a local search, speak to authorities, and retrace any steps their son may have taken.
A Painful Wait with No Answers
The Balisong family&rsquo;s story has touched many, drawing attention not just to their personal tragedy but also to broader questions about youth mental health, international travel security, and the pressures faced by high-achieving students. Still, for the family, it all comes down to one thing &mdash; David&rsquo;s safety.
&ldquo;No matter where you are, David &mdash; just let us know you&rsquo;re okay,&rdquo; Minerva pleaded. &ldquo;We don&rsquo;t need anything else. Just a message, anything. Please.&rdquo;
Anyone who may have seen David in Malaysia or has any information is urged to contact local authorities or Greater Manchester Police as soon as possible.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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A-star student missing for over a month with no contact. Heartbroken family pleads for signs that he’s alive.

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British Teen Disappears After Secret Solo Flight To Malaysia

Malaysian K-pop fans have more to look forward to this year as rising boy group 82MAJOR (에이티투메이저) is officially set to return to Kuala Lumpur for their first full concert. After creating a buzz earlier this year with their fan meeting and press conference, the group is now scheduled to perform live on a much bigger scale &mdash; and the excitement is palpable among fans.
Back in February 2025, 82MAJOR visited Malaysia for the first time, holding a warm and intimate fan event at SEGi University in Kota Damansara. The event gave Malaysian fans their first close-up interaction with the members, who left a lasting impression with their stage presence, energy, and charm. The visit also included a press conference at Pavilion KL, which further boosted their local profile.
Who Are 82MAJOR?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/39703932d40cb647afdee1962a86445288e2efe2ae95ed1d098c58efafe88976" />
Emerging as one of the most promising new acts in K-pop, 82MAJOR is a six-member boy group under Great M Entertainment, officially debuting in October 2023. The group consists of charismatic members: Jungseok, Chanhyeok, Seokjun, Donghyeon, Yunho, and Yechan&mdash;each bringing distinct vocal tones, dance styles, and personalities to the group&rsquo;s growing appeal.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yhe0QukH4QE" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Their debut single &ldquo;FIRST CLASS&rdquo; made an immediate impact with its bold concept and gritty hip-hop energy, setting them apart from more conventional rookie debuts. The track showcased their confidence, swagger, and tight choreography, earning them attention from both local fans and international audiences.
What&rsquo;s notable about 82MAJOR is their raw edge and performance-driven style, which taps into a global Gen Z audience hungry for authenticity and bold self-expression. The group has since released follow-up tracks like &ldquo;Sure Thing&rdquo; and &ldquo;Get it Hot&rdquo;, reinforcing their sound identity and stage charisma.
While still early in their career, 82MAJOR has been featured in several "Rookie to Watch" lists by Korean media outlets and are beginning to gain traction across social media and global K-pop platforms. Their potential for growth, combined with a fresh sound and striking visuals, positions them as a group to watch in the next wave of K-pop talent.
Following Their North American Success
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ebad64acaf013d14724353149de654d699243e39952a478611617f1a92bd63ba" />
82MAJOR has had a packed schedule in 2025, particularly with their &ldquo;82 SYNDROME&rdquo; North American tour, which began in May and covered 25 cities across the United States and Canada. The tour has played a major role in expanding their international reach, drawing in new fans with their powerful performances, captivating choreography, and on-stage charisma.
Their final North American performance will be held in Los Angeles on 19 July, marking the end of a two-month tour across major cities. After a brief break to recharge, the group is expected to begin preparations for their Asia tour, with Malaysia already locked in as one of the confirmed destinations.
Although a full list of Asia tour stops has not been officially released, Malaysian fans can rest assured knowing Kuala Lumpur is already on the schedule.
Concert Information &ndash; What We Know So Far
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0cc39f5315ac7d890ed33cdc536ea62cf96f51005f6d681a3be440832c4d1762" />
Here are the official details announced for 82MAJOR&rsquo;s highly anticipated concert in Kuala Lumpur:
82MAJOR&rsquo;s 82 SYNDROME Concert in Kuala Lumpur
<ul>
<li>Date: Saturday, 4 October 2025</li>
<li>Time: 7:00 PM</li>
<li>Venue: Idea Live Arena, Kuala Lumpur</li>
<li>Organiser: iMe Malaysia</li>
<li>Ticket Sales Platform: BookMyShow (ticketing details to be announced)</li>
</ul>
The concert is being organised by well-known promoter iMe Malaysia, which has a strong track record of bringing top-tier K-pop acts to Malaysian shores. Ticket pricing and seat map information will be released in the coming weeks, and fans are advised to stay tuned to official channels for timely updates.
Fan Anticipation at an All-Time High
This marks the group&rsquo;s first full concert in Malaysia, and it will be an entirely different experience compared to their earlier fan meeting. Instead of short segments and casual Q&amp;A sessions, fans can expect a high-energy, fully choreographed show, complete with a dynamic setlist, fan-favourite songs, and heartfelt moments with the crowd.
For many MAJORs, this is the long-awaited opportunity to see the boys in their element &mdash; delivering a concert that reflects their musical growth, stage confidence, and group chemistry.
Social media has already begun buzzing with fan reactions, and hashtags related to the concert are steadily gaining traction among Malaysian K-pop communities.
New Music Hints and Rising Popularity
As the countdown to their Kuala Lumpur concert begins, fans are eagerly speculating about a possible comeback from 82MAJOR in the lead-up to October. With their North American tour wrapping up and their fanbase expanding rapidly across Asia, many anticipate the release of new material, potentially an EP or a special single designed for the Asian leg of their tour.
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In the meantime, fans can enjoy the group&rsquo;s latest release, &ldquo;TAKEOVER&rdquo;, a high-energy track that highlights 82MAJOR&rsquo;s refined production style, strong choreography, and distinctive vocal sound. The song has steadily gained traction online, with streaming numbers and YouTube views continuing to climb, boosted by the group&rsquo;s recent international exposure.
Should new music be released before October, Malaysian fans may be among the first to experience it live, adding an extra layer of excitement to what is already shaping up to be a major milestone for both the group and their local supporters. Whether or not a new comeback arrives in time, one thing is certain: 82MAJOR&rsquo;s Kuala Lumpur concert promises to be a must-see event.
Stay Tuned for More Updates
As anticipation builds, fans can expect more updates in the coming weeks &mdash; including ticketing tiers, fan benefits, and possible meet-and-greet packages. With 82MAJOR continuing to gain momentum globally, this concert is shaping up to be one of the most memorable K-pop events in Malaysia this year.
Mark your calendars for 4 October 2025, and get ready to chant, dance, and sing your heart out with 82MAJOR in Kuala Lumpur.
Are you excited? Because we definitely know we are!
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

The wait is over, Malaysia is officially on their Asia tour stop for a full concert!

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