Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

99Speedmart

gig economy

debate

billionaire

wages

branch manager

Many Malaysians dream of earning higher wages, and for some, that dream includes running a successful business chain.
On that note, the owner of 99 Speedmart, Lee Thiam Wah, recently saw his fortune grow by an additional RM2 billion, just one day after listing 99 Speedmart Retail Holdings Bhd at RM1.65 per share. This achievement has solidified his position among Malaysia's wealthiest individuals.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/12bdda2f68ebd3a886f00c0c65818d9381ebcd54e3c456aa3887af8555794390" />
Following news of Lee Thiam Wah's growing wealth making headlines across Malaysia, discussions quickly surfaced around the wages offered to 99 Speedmart employees. Attention soon turned to branch managers, who reportedly earn an average monthly salary of just RM2,387.
The conversation gained traction after an X post highlighted the company&rsquo;s average salaries, sparking debates on wage fairness and employee satisfaction.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Billionaire tapi gaji untuk Branch Manager baru RM2,387. 😅😅😅 <a href="https://t.co/S2jP7BgTaB">https://t.co/S2jP7BgTaB</a> <a href="https://t.co/RCEATCAPak">pic.twitter.com/RCEATCAPak</a>
&mdash; aiamDeen (@aiamDeen) <a href="https://twitter.com/aiamDeen/status/1833449437903130680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a></blockquote>

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The post included a screenshot, reportedly from the job site Indeed, revealing that cashiers earn RM1,694 and logistics associates receive RM2,236.
Netizens In Disbelief Over The Low Salaries
As comments flooded in online, many netizens expressed disbelief at the low wages offered by 99 Speedmart. They noted that branch managers, who shoulder substantial responsibilities, receive salaries comparable to office clerks, despite working long hours from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and occasionally handling cashier duties.
The discussion also touched on why many young people might prefer the gig economy, with options like Lalamove, Foodpanda, or Grab. The appeal of gig work lies in the potential for higher earnings, flexible hours, and immediate payment, contrasting sharply with the stress and rigidity of traditional employment.
Here's some of the comments:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Kalau dia offer gaji bermaruah, mungkin skrg belum jadi billionaire.
&mdash; Chief Hir 🇲🇾 🇵🇸 (@syahir7_Z) <a href="https://twitter.com/syahir7_Z/status/1833653329286906158?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Operator di kilang pun boleh dapat gaji basic dan ot lebih rm3k sebulan
&mdash; K.H Yon (@Kh_yonkhai) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kh_yonkhai/status/1833465750188921161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Sbb tu dia billionaire..😂
&mdash; Abu Osman Wonda (@osman_EX5Hitam) <a href="https://twitter.com/osman_EX5Hitam/status/1833642791156781191?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Pembetulan. Billionaire SEBAB gaji branch manager baru RM2,387. 👍🏼
&mdash; Ismet Ulam Raja (@ismet_ulam) <a href="https://twitter.com/ismet_ulam/status/1833672802232373279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Gila!! Manager gaji RM2.3K sebulan? Dah lah kerja mcm lembu cover banyak outlet. Dengan short manpower lagi. Kau kerja kilang.. normal operator pun basic boleh sampai RM3-3K.
&mdash; WhoamI? (@Iamraffffffff) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iamraffffffff/status/1833677416180707777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
Tgk ni Mydin branch Manager. Ok la jugaak <a href="https://t.co/KEjVfIJubm">pic.twitter.com/KEjVfIJubm</a>
&mdash; NotMyFault (@meIayuterakhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/meIayuterakhir/status/1833667676927119607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a></blockquote>

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Comparing Jobs &amp; Trade-Offs Of Gig Economy Jobs
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/24e31ed168f5e3e5d78ce29e3143f56a48ebd8f857ecbc3e352efe10be2a643f" />
While gig economy jobs are often praised for their potentially high payouts, they come with significant drawbacks, such as the lack of stable income and benefits like EPF and SOCSO. Additionally, workers face risks while on the road. Although longer hours can lead to higher earnings in gig work, these jobs are typically viewed as short-term solutions due to their lack of job security.
Despite criticisms from netizens about 99 Speedmart's wealth and employee wages, it's important to recognize the risks faced by business owners. They must contend with the uncertainties of entrepreneurship and the potential for business failure, which are part of the challenges of running a successful company.
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It's also important to note that advertised salaries often represent the base range and may not include additional benefits that can vary depending on qualifications, years of experience, and other factors.
When it comes to wages, one thing we can all agree on is that the cost of living has risen significantly. It&rsquo;s natural to wonder how we can manage to make ends meet with such low salaries.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/3410/brave-makcik-urges-anwar-ibrahim-to-tackle-high-cost-of-living-during-ramadan-bazaar-visit-in-perlis">Brave Makcik Urges Anwar Ibrahim To Tackle High Cost of Living During Ramadan bazaar Visit In Perlis</a>
Perhaps it&rsquo;s time for the government to take action and provide more support for Malaysians during these challenging times, or at the very least, update us on the long-awaited PADU system.
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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Let’s be real—are wages keeping up with the rising cost of living? We don’t think so.

8efd0147b1922ee2e8e49700899956cdd8ce8d56ed023251eee8f207f05fdd31

Netizens Debate 99 Speedmart Branch Manager Wages Being Low Despite Their Boss Being One Of Malaysia’s Billionaires

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Scentify

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Oatside

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Rohto

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In a world where gig work is often viewed as an unstable or transitional phase, Afiq Zayany is defying the odds &mdash; and expectations. While many associate food delivery with long hours, low pay, and limited future prospects, Afiq has turned it into a high-earning profession that funds his dream lifestyle in a luxury villa.
What makes his story stand out isn&rsquo;t just the numbers &mdash; it&rsquo;s the cross-border discipline, sheer work ethic, and personal philosophy that drive his success.
From Johor Bahru to Singapore: The Daily Commute Behind the Earnings
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Afiq resides in Johor Bahru (JB), Malaysia, where he owns a sprawling two-storey landed golf villa valued at RM1.4 million. The home features a large compound, three-car garage, and a view that rivals that of most high-end resorts. But to fund this lifestyle, Afiq crosses the Malaysia-Singapore border every single day to work as a Grab delivery rider in the city-state.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8c9843890768bf76d13f0e9252f7e03defa31aa244cc26361ed729d83b5600a7" />
His daily routine is disciplined: he starts early, rides through busy Singaporean streets, and delivers food orders for six to seven hours, clocking in around 25 deliveries on average. This translates to roughly S$200 (RM660) in daily earnings &mdash; and at that pace, Afiq&rsquo;s monthly income ranges between S$6,000 to S$7,000 (RM20,000+).
In his own words: &ldquo;If you treat this like a real job, not a side hustle, S$4,000 is the minimum. Push harder, and you can hit S$6,000 or more.&rdquo;
The Work Behind the Wages: No Glamour, Just Grit
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/22ba12622b2a7444c0a5b3a5fda6b72ff45a13e943f29d9f751dbbd9863cae49" />
While the income sounds impressive, Afiq is the first to admit the job is far from glamorous. He estimates riding over 250 kilometres a day, exposed to Singapore&rsquo;s unpredictable weather. Some days, it&rsquo;s punishing heat; on others, sudden downpours soak riders mid-route. Beyond that, riders must stay constantly alert &mdash; navigating traffic, avoiding accidents, and meeting tight delivery timelines.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s either scorching hot or you get drenched,&rdquo; he explains. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s exhausting, and you&rsquo;re risking your life on the road every single day.&rdquo;
His typical day may not involve office meetings or air-conditioned cubicles, but it demands more stamina and situational awareness than many white-collar jobs.
Despite the hardships, Afiq says mental discipline is the key. &ldquo;You are your own boss, but people forget that being a boss is hard. There&rsquo;s no one chasing you to work &mdash; so you have to be consistent and motivated.&rdquo;
Acts of Kindness and the Human Side of the Job
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5907480612d7f20713fdca367bcd2f89bea8eb67911b12ddaff9a4f8b89b568a" /> Example of how some leave snacks or drinks outside for riders. 
Amid the hustle, Afiq has experienced moments that restore his faith in humanity. Some customers leave out cold drinks or snacks for riders &mdash; a small but meaningful gesture that brightens an otherwise draining day.
&ldquo;Most customers are thoughtful. When I see snacks left outside for riders, it genuinely makes my day,&rdquo; he says.
These gestures remind him that he&rsquo;s not invisible, and that many people appreciate the hard work behind each meal delivery.
Discipline, Not a Shortcut: How Afiq Built His Routine
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2cc7506d71b6902ac2cf085b57a50edb5b58ffb0ac2537b4bb0c4c86394dc52a" />
Afiq has been a Grab rider for over two to three years, and he is quick to shut down any myths about easy money. While his earnings are impressive, he stresses that they are the result of clear goals, daily routines, and a willingness to endure discomfort.
He keeps detailed records, sets weekly targets (like hitting 180 orders), and takes advantage of platform incentives. On one particular week in May, he earned S$1,283 before incentives, and an additional S$150 bonus for reaching his delivery goal.
But it&rsquo;s not all sunshine and windfalls. &ldquo;If I take a week off, my income drops to around S$4,000,&rdquo; he says. &ldquo;But if I work every day &mdash; seven days a week for the whole month &mdash; I can get close to S$7,000.&rdquo;
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A New Life in Johor Bahru: Peace, Space, and Perspective
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/79a49bff0cf9172d2774c5136e9519026e9b7b15af66b8b84cd0bafaa31c197d" />
Beyond the earnings, Afiq says his decision to live in Johor Bahru has made him happier overall. Compared to Singapore&rsquo;s dense, fast-paced lifestyle, JB offers him space, peace of mind, and a more relaxed pace of life &mdash; without compromising his income.
&ldquo;I feel less stressed, less cramped, and more at peace,&rdquo; he shared. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s the best of both worlds &mdash; I earn in Singapore, but I live in comfort in Malaysia.&rdquo;
No Career Ladder, But a Path to Freedom
While Afiq is proud of his achievements, he is realistic about the nature of platform work. &ldquo;There&rsquo;s no promotion, no HR department planning your career,&rdquo; he says. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not for everyone. You have to make it work for you.&rdquo;
He praises Grab for offering workshops and training to equip riders with skills, but maintains that success ultimately depends on personal discipline. &ldquo;The flexibility is great &mdash; but don&rsquo;t misuse it. Set goals. Stick to them. Show up every day.&rdquo;
And that, according to Afiq, is how a rider becomes not just self-sufficient, but successful.
Redefining Gig Work: Not a Shortcut, but a Strategy
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bde69eaac0c2b44aee6f931dfea8bb1acb803bb71751402f8f5fdc330faf2d4a" />
Afiq Zayany&rsquo;s story turns the gig economy narrative on its head. While many dismiss delivery work as low-skilled or unstable, Afiq demonstrates that with strategy, consistency, and grit, even a job seen as &ldquo;temporary&rdquo; can fund a fulfilling lifestyle.
There are no tricks, no hacks, no viral side hustle formulas. Just a man, his bike, his routine &mdash; and a clear sense of purpose.
&ldquo;If you want to earn well doing this,&rdquo; he says, &ldquo;then treat it like it matters. Because it does.&rdquo;
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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Despite commuting daily to Singapore, completing around 25 deliveries a day helps him maximise his income and live comfortably.

3db209c4230a7e8d962f0ed53147f1b3345dfa4cefdfad114f546e150f7f5567

Riding To Riches: How A Grab Rider Purchased A RM1.4 Million Home By Delivering Food

Malaysia&rsquo;s public healthcare system remains under immense pressure, as government hospitals and clinics face ever-growing patient numbers while grappling with chronic shortages of medical personnel. Many Malaysians rely on public health services for their affordability, but the imbalance between demand and available resources has become increasingly difficult to ignore.
300 Patients, Three Doctors: The Crisis at Sungai Buloh Hospital
A viral image shared by a user on Threads <a href="https://www.threads.com/@izzsubari/post/DLkI0qlT7ut?xmt=AQF0Bk5rcwgcbne9lpUKEhYueMgbZYXLE8xtEpTEHqoxwVw">(@izzsubari</a>) has sparked concern across social media. The photo, taken at the Orthopaedic Clinic in Sungai Buloh Hospital (HSgB), revealed a troubling reality: 300 patients were registered for treatment on the day in question, but only three medical officers and one specialist were available.
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In a public notice, the clinic acknowledged the situation, warning that patients would likely face extended waiting periods due to a lack of manpower. The statement apologised for the inconvenience and assured the public that efforts were underway to improve workflow efficiency.
&ldquo;We appreciate your patience and cooperation. The clinic is working to improve its processes to ensure more efficient care for all patients,&rdquo; the notice read.
Netizens Voice Their Opinion
The announcement struck a nerve online. Many Malaysians were quick to voice their frustration at the clear mismatch between staffing levels and patient needs. One social media user estimated that if each doctor had to see 75 patients, with just 15 minutes allocated per consultation, they&rsquo;d be working for over 19 hours straight.
&ldquo;This just isn&rsquo;t realistic. It borders on impossible,&rdquo; wrote one commenter. Others worried about the potential consequences if any of the doctors were pulled away to attend to emergency or ward cases.
Some healthcare professionals also weighed in. A former government doctor shared her experience of handling up to 120 patients a day at a fever centre, describing the toll it took on her mental and emotional well-being.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bff6840ae48daadcb7e8eafc4abf982e447c79e8c8e2f93d315f61de961ac7ba" />
When Affordability Risks Quality
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2ef68d065954927c9f1264c07cebc81067914f1d29f1f02eb365888e9192a13e" />
While public healthcare is still viewed as a crucial safety net, many are beginning to question the quality of care patients receive under such pressure. Several users on Threads expressed concerns that extremely high patient loads may prevent doctors from conducting meaningful consultations or making well-considered diagnoses.
&ldquo;Healthcare shouldn&rsquo;t just be about accessibility. It also has to be safe, thorough, and effective,&rdquo; one post read. &ldquo;If a consultation is rushed or incomplete, patients could end up misdiagnosed or sent away without proper care.&rdquo;
The growing sentiment among the public is clear: while affordable healthcare is vital, no one should be forced to choose between cost and quality.
New Medical Regulations Aim to Tackle Specialist Shortages
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
📢 Pindaan Akta Perubatan &amp; Peraturan Baharu Dikuatkuasakan Hari Ini Alhamdulillah, bermula 1 Julai 2025, satu detik bersejarah buat sistem kesihatan negara. Hari ini menandakan pelaksanaan rasmi Peraturan-Peraturan Perubatan (Pindaan) 2025 serta penguatkuasaan Akta Perubatan&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/rB6tjHiYyb">pic.twitter.com/rB6tjHiYyb</a>
&mdash; KKMalaysia🇲🇾🩺❤️ (@KKMPutrajaya) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKMPutrajaya/status/1940024989933347208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2025</a></blockquote>

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In response to these challenges, the Ministry of Health has moved forward with legislative reforms designed to bolster Malaysia&rsquo;s specialist workforce and ensure fairer access to advanced medical care.
Effective from 1 July, the Medical (Amendment) Regulations 2025 and the Medical Act (Amendment) 2024 have come into force. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad described the changes as a major step towards creating a more transparent, inclusive, and competency-based system for medical specialists.
Key features of the amendments include:
<ul>
<li>Streamlining recognition and registration of specialists from both the Parallel Pathway and local postgraduate programmes.</li>
<li>Ensuring fair and competency-based evaluation processes.</li>
<li>Strengthening the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) to make it more representative and accountable.</li>
<li>Establishing clear service pathways for specialists to continue serving the public health system.</li>
<li>Expanding public access to high-quality specialist treatment nationwide.</li>
</ul>
Dr Dzulkefly added that the first wave of specialists under the Parallel Pathway would cover cardiothoracic surgery, plastic surgery, and family medicine, while genetic pathology would be included under the Master Programme route.
The reforms aim not only to fill existing gaps in specialist availability but also to provide long-term stability for Malaysia&rsquo;s healthcare system&mdash;by improving training pipelines, retaining local talent, and ensuring more equitable distribution of expertise across the country.
A Healthcare System at a Crossroads
The situation at Sungai Buloh Hospital is emblematic of wider structural issues within Malaysia&rsquo;s public healthcare sector&mdash;issues that cannot be solved overnight. With soaring demand and insufficient staff, both patients and healthcare workers continue to bear the brunt of the system&rsquo;s shortcomings.
While the newly introduced reforms mark a step in the right direction, experts argue that systemic change will require sustained political will, better funding, and more immediate support on the ground. That includes short-term staffing solutions, better working conditions for junior doctors, and more strategic resource allocation across facilities.
Until such changes take hold, many frontline doctors will continue to face burnout, and patients will continue to wait&mdash;hoping that a better balance between cost, quality, and care is not too far off on the horizon.
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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Imagine one doctor attending to 75 patients in a day! Now that’s absurd.

0f547dbec7a68c08baf50551072328a74290aa380b7fcd77afed63d899abeeed

Long Waits And Limited Staff: Malaysians Raise Alarm Over Strained Public Healthcare

As Netflix gears up to release The Old Guard 2 on 2 July (today), fans across Southeast Asia have been buzzing&mdash;not just about the film&rsquo;s return to its universe of immortal mercenaries, but about the appearance of a new character that&rsquo;s caught the eye of many Malaysians. Played by Malaysian-born actor Henry Golding, the mysterious character named Tuah sparked a wave of excitement and speculation&mdash;especially after promotional posters revealed him wielding a keris, the traditional Malay dagger closely associated with legendary warrior Hang Tuah.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/22ec55fca284cdef6529c3644341600a4396c5127d105a13274769ccf12cb2e7" />
To local audiences, this was no coincidence. In Malay folklore, Hang Tuah is a fabled warrior of the 15th-century Melaka Sultanate, renowned for his fierce loyalty, unmatched combat skills, and iconic weapon, the magical keris Taming Sari. Tuah&rsquo;s name, Southeast Asian heritage, and distinctive blade immediately fuelled theories that The Old Guard 2 was introducing a reimagined version of Hang Tuah into its immortal universe.
Adding to the excitement, Tuah is introduced as a centuries-old character who may hold secrets to the origins of immortality itself&mdash;a character shrouded in myth and mystery, not unlike the revered Hang Tuah himself. Social media lit up with comparisons, fan theories, and even mock-ups of what a modern Hang Tuah would look like. And to be fair, with his facial hair, warrior presence, and keris in hand, Golding certainly looks the part.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
read some theory about the old guard 2 and there is a chance that henry golding is hang tuah in it 😭😭😭 this is genuinely mad if u know anything about malay history
&mdash; ْ (@d00scar) <a href="https://twitter.com/d00scar/status/1939544409558958463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
Golding Breaks the Illusion: A Nod to Luck, Not Legend 
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9b980ccef5c941c4c4b60256b66679a4ca4dfa3cd03bcb59e181f1def30772bf" />
Yet for all the buzz, Golding himself put the rumours to rest in a recent interview&mdash;while still appreciating the enthusiasm. The Crazy Rich Asians and Snake Eyes actor revealed that he had suggested the name &ldquo;Tuah&rdquo; himself during production, inspired by the Malay word meaning &ldquo;luck&rdquo; or &ldquo;fortune&rdquo;.
"It felt right, given the character&rsquo;s role in the story and the spiritual undertones of immortality and fate," he said. But as for being Hang Tuah? &ldquo;No, not quite,&rdquo; Golding admitted with a smile.
Still, he acknowledged the cultural resonance the character&rsquo;s name and weapon held for Malaysian audiences. &ldquo;Of course I understand what Tuah means to Malaysians, and the keris is such a powerful symbol,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I think it&rsquo;s amazing people are seeing echoes of that legend in this role.&rdquo;
Whether intentional or not, Tuah stands as a rare moment of Southeast Asian representation in a global action franchise, and Golding&rsquo;s presence alone adds a layer of cultural pride for many regional fans.
The Return of Immortal Warriors &ndash; and Hollywood Heavyweights
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ebd627e78a2059708e2cb350421d0cf02074fcb42d411af25d952239deb6d0cb" />
Directed by Victoria Mahoney, The Old Guard 2 picks up years after the events of the first film, with Charlize Theron&rsquo;s character Andy grappling with her newfound mortality. The immortal mercenary team&mdash;including Nile (KiKi Layne), Joe (Marwan Kenzari), Nicky (Luca Marinelli), and Copley (Chiwetel Ejiofor)&mdash;is forced to face a dangerous new adversary: Discord, played by Uma Thurman, who claims to be the world&rsquo;s original immortal. Discord threatens to unravel the fragile balance of the immortals&rsquo; existence and jeopardise the mission they&rsquo;ve carried for centuries&mdash;protecting humanity from the shadows.
In a desperate bid to counter Discord&rsquo;s threat, the team turns to Tuah&mdash;an ancient figure with deep knowledge of their shared past and the very essence of their immortality. But while Tuah&rsquo;s role proves pivotal, The Old Guard 2 struggles under the weight of its own expanding mythology. Critics note that the film&rsquo;s pace slows as it attempts to lay the groundwork for a potential third instalment, at times sacrificing emotional payoff for world-building.
Even the much-hyped duel between Theron and Thurman, though serviceable, lacks the cinematic punch one might expect from two of Hollywood&rsquo;s most iconic action stars. Instead, the film&rsquo;s most emotionally charged scenes emerge from the tense reunion between Andy and Quynh (Veronica Ng&ocirc;), her once-ally who has now aligned with Discord after centuries of isolation and betrayal.
Golding on Theron: &ldquo;She&rsquo;s the Female Tom Cruise&rdquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/450945cf37431d20d99977c58e2d7deb4575e757cbd2fbfd42d835f53e08354d" />
Despite mixed critical reception of the sequel&rsquo;s pacing, Golding spoke glowingly of his time on set&mdash;particularly about sharing the screen with Charlize Theron. At the film&rsquo;s premiere at Netflix&rsquo;s Tudum Theatre in Los Angeles, Golding likened her to none other than Tom Cruise, praising her dual role as lead actor and hands-on producer.
&ldquo;She&rsquo;s like a rare commodity in Hollywood,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;She&rsquo;s the female counterpart to Tom Cruise. She&rsquo;s there before anyone else, the last to leave, and right in the middle of the action. She knows exactly what she wants, and she makes it happen.&rdquo;
He added, &ldquo;She and Tom Cruise are some of the last of the true movie stars. You don&rsquo;t see that level of intensity and presence very often anymore.&rdquo;
Theron&rsquo;s career has spanned over two decades, with roles that range from Oscar-winning performances in Monster to her more recent action-driven roles in Mad Max: Fury Road and Atomic Blonde. In The Old Guard 2, her performance once again anchors the story&mdash;serving as the emotional and narrative spine of the film, even when the pacing falters.
Golding also expressed gratitude for being included in such a seasoned ensemble, calling the experience &ldquo;an incredible opportunity to grow, not just as an actor but as part of a team telling a big, global story.&rdquo;
Streaming 2 July: Myth, Immortality, and a Southeast Asian Star
&nbsp;<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lyivgZ074PY" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
While The Old Guard 2 may not have fully capitalised on its blockbuster potential, its ambition remains clear&mdash;and for many Southeast Asian viewers, Henry Golding&rsquo;s inclusion as Tuah brings a long-overdue sense of representation to the genre. Whether or not he&rsquo;s Hang Tuah reborn, the presence of a Malaysian actor wielding a keris in a Hollywood action epic is no small thing.
As the film debuts on Netflix, fans may still debate the origins of Tuah&mdash;but Golding&rsquo;s rising star, and his reverence for the cultural legacy he nods to, will continue to resonate. For now, The Old Guard 2 offers action, mythology, and a diverse cast fighting for humanity&rsquo;s future&mdash;one immortal at a time.
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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No, he’s not that Tuah. Golding says the name just means “luck” and it fits the story.

22af4bbacd518f9851734fc320db2ffd226b144d0fed652e0e326b6fa6822c1f

Is Hang Tuah In The Old Guard 2? Henry Golding Responds To The Surprising Theory

Malaysians have been left stunned by the tragic murder of 20-year-old university student Maniishapriet Kaur Akhara, who was found dead in her student apartment in Cyberjaya on 24 June. Fresh details from police investigations have now confirmed that the main suspect is the boyfriend of one of her housemates&mdash;who had handed him the access card and keys to the unit prior to the killing.
Maniishapriet, a Bachelor of Physiotherapy student originally from Kuching, Sarawak, was staying alone in the unit at Mutiara Ville after her housemates had left for the semester break. She had remained behind to prepare for an upcoming examination. Her body was discovered around 10am by a concerned friend, who immediately contacted police. She was found unconscious with clear head injuries, and a post-mortem confirmed the cause of death as blunt force trauma to the head.
Access Through Trust: Girlfriend Gave Suspect Entry
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Selangor Police Chief Commissioner Datuk Hussein Omar Khan told reporters on 1 July that preliminary investigations revealed how the suspect gained access to the residence without force. The housemate&mdash;one of the three female suspects now in custody&mdash;had previously allowed her boyfriend to stay over in the unit, and handed him the access card and keys once again before returning to her hometown.
"The main suspect had stayed at the unit before. On the night of the incident, he was given the card and keys again, while his girlfriend had already gone home. He stayed overnight and unfortunately harboured ill intentions toward the victim," said Commissioner Hussein.
Investigators believe that the suspect, now remanded, assaulted Maniishapriet using a blunt object, striking her fatally. There were no signs of forced entry into the apartment, indicating that the suspect&rsquo;s presence there appeared authorised at the time.
While police do not currently believe the crime was premeditated, they are probing whether the housemate had any knowledge of her boyfriend&rsquo;s potential motives or behaviour. &ldquo;We are still investigating whether she was aware of what he intended to do,&rdquo; added Hussein.
Theft, Rumours of Rape, and a Fifth Individual
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After allegedly killing Maniishapriet, the suspect is believed to have taken several of her personal belongings, including her laptop, mobile phone, ATM card, and cash. Police confirmed that RM200 was withdrawn using her card not long after the incident. They suspect that one of the arrested female individuals may have assisted in making the withdrawal.
Authorities also revealed the involvement of a fifth person&mdash;someone who allegedly received the victim&rsquo;s belongings from the main suspect after the murder. This individual is currently detained in relation to another separate case, but police are in the process of recording a formal statement from him. At present, he is not believed to have played a role in the murder itself.
In the days following the murder, speculation on social media raised the possibility of sexual assault. However, Commissioner Hussein addressed the rumours directly, stating that the post-mortem found no evidence of rape. &ldquo;Based on the pathology report, there are no signs of sexual assault. However, we are not ruling out anything and further investigations are ongoing to confirm or disprove any such claims,&rdquo; he said.
Arrests, CCTV Evidence and the Path Toward Prosecution
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So far, four individuals have been arrested in connection with the case&mdash;three women and one man, all aged between 19 and 20. They were apprehended in swift police operations conducted in Johor Bahru and Gemencheh, Negeri Sembilan on 26 and 27 June, just 48 hours after the initial police report was filed.
The remand orders for all suspects have been extended beyond the initial 3 July deadline as investigations intensify. Police are also analysing CCTV footage from surrounding areas in Cyberjaya to reconstruct the timeline of events. The apartment unit itself did not have internal surveillance, but officers are confident that external footage will help support the case.
Commissioner Hussein confirmed that police are working to complete the investigation papers, which will soon be forwarded to the Deputy Public Prosecutor. The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder, which carries the death penalty or life imprisonment upon conviction.
The murder of Maniishapriet Kaur has sparked widespread concern and conversation about safety in student housing, especially for those staying alone during the holidays. The betrayal of trust&mdash;facilitated by someone within the victim&rsquo;s own circle&mdash;has only deepened the public&rsquo;s unease.
As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder that danger can emerge even in familiar places, and that vigilance must extend beyond locked doors. The country now watches closely as the legal process unfolds and justice is sought for Maniishapriet&rsquo;s untimely and senseless death.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Chilling new details reveal the boyfriend gained access through the victim’s housemates. 

5f21d343733bbc0d24cc501b710eae68b46a1b4e231d54cfe55e5bd133949749

Cyberjaya Student Murder: Housemate’s Boyfriend Accused Of Killing 20-Year-Old Maniishapriet Kaur

In an unexpected legal defeat, Italian luxury car manufacturer Ferrari SpA has lost a trademark lawsuit against Malaysian beverage company Sunrise-Mark Sdn Bhd. The dispute centred on claims that the local firm&rsquo;s Wee Power logo, featuring two rearing horses, was too similar to Ferrari&rsquo;s world-famous &lsquo;Prancing Horse&rsquo; trademark.
The Legal Challenge Over Horses
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/90c45b4ba18b1f8ce77e4a6302e0fd0f94bcd95687c9aacf4584b5e4e53c8791" />
Ferrari initiated legal action through an originating summons in an attempt to overturn a 2024 decision by the Registrar of Trademarks. That decision had dismissed Ferrari&rsquo;s opposition to Sunrise-Mark&rsquo;s application, allowing the Wee Power mark to proceed towards registration.
The automaker argued that Sunrise-Mark&rsquo;s use of horses, specifically two rearing horses facing each other, could cause confusion among consumers, infringing on Ferrari&rsquo;s exclusive rights to its iconic single rearing horse symbol, famously seen on its sports cars, merchandise, and global marketing campaigns.
Ferrari also attempted to downplay the significance of the words &ldquo;Wee Power&rdquo; in the branding, asserting that the term &ldquo;Power&rdquo; had been disclaimed in the trademark filing, while &ldquo;Wee&rdquo; was allegedly too generic to carry any unique distinction.
Judge: Not All Horses Are Equal
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/143312a887ba19bd673e9700b00cd5b54c3a37103202c568839d51374f45f85e" />
However, the Malaysian High Court saw things differently. On 30 May, Judge Adlin Abdul Majid dismissed Ferrari&rsquo;s claims, finding that the similarities between the two trademarks were minimal at best.
&ldquo;The plaintiff&rsquo;s [Ferrari&rsquo;s] logo contains a single rearing horse, while the defendant&rsquo;s [Sunrise-Mark&rsquo;s] logo features two rearing horses positioned opposite each other,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;In addition, there is a prominent letter &lsquo;W&rsquo; between the horses&rsquo; heads and the words &lsquo;Wee Power&rsquo; below them. It is a very different composition.&rdquo;
Judge Adlin accepted Sunrise-Mark&rsquo;s argument that &ldquo;Wee&rdquo; was a reference to the founder&rsquo;s name, Wee Juan Chien, rather than a nod to the English definition of the word. She remarked that it was improbable any brand would aim to market an energy drink suggesting &ldquo;very small power&rdquo;.
Different Industries, Different Consumers
Central to the court&rsquo;s decision was the fact that Ferrari and Sunrise-Mark operate in completely unrelated industries. The judge noted that Ferrari is entrenched in the luxury automotive sector, while Sunrise-Mark&rsquo;s business lies in the realm of consumable goods.
&ldquo;These are not competing markets, and it is highly unlikely that the plaintiff&rsquo;s customer base would overlap with the defendant&rsquo;s,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;There is no reasonable likelihood that a consumer purchasing an energy drink would assume a connection with Ferrari&rsquo;s vehicles.&rdquo;
Judge Adlin firmly rejected the notion that the average Malaysian consumer would mistake the Wee Power logo for anything associated with Ferrari, regardless of the presence of horses in both designs.
Sunrise-Mark Free to Proceed With Trademark
<img src="https://media.tenor.com/hG84QGeAAvMAAAAM/mc-gregor-pay-up.gif" />
With Ferrari&rsquo;s lawsuit dismissed, Sunrise-Mark is now free to register and use its Wee Power trademark without legal hindrance. In addition to losing the case, Ferrari was ordered by the court to bear the legal costs.
Representing Ferrari were counsels PC Kok and Ng Pau Chze. Sunrise-Mark was represented by lawyers YY Ho and Amirah Najihah Ameruddin.
Ferrari&rsquo;s History of Aggressive Brand Protection
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/66cda4960af950aaeef270c41e9ff3f6ae3054ff0b27be1d7c5a6eadc80f2456" />
This case is just the latest example of Ferrari&rsquo;s fiercely protective stance over its brand image. The automaker has a long history of enforcing strict rules over how its logo and vehicles are used, extending even to celebrities.
In the past, Ferrari reportedly blacklisted pop star Justin Bieber after he modified one of their cars and failed to follow brand etiquette. Likewise, Canadian DJ Deadmau5 was served legal warnings over his custom-painted &ldquo;Purrari&rdquo;, a Ferrari 458 decorated with a Nyan Cat theme. The car was eventually stripped of its modifications after pressure from the company.
While Ferrari&rsquo;s desire to protect its identity is understandable, this Malaysian court ruling suggests that even powerful global brands must accept reasonable limits when it comes to trademark control, especially when dealing with fundamentally different industries.
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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From blacklisting celebrities to suing energy drinks over prancing horses, Ferrari’s brand policing continues.

Netizens Debate 99 Speedmart Branch Manager Wages Being Low Despite Their Boss Being One Of Malaysia’s Billionaires

Let’s be real—are wages keeping up with the rising cost of living? We don’t think so.

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