Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

tiktok

culture

English

Mandarin

Chinese

language

learning

RedNote

Duolingo

bilingual

The looming US ban on TikTok has sparked an unexpected cultural shift: a surge in Americans learning Mandarin. Duolingo, a popular language-learning app, has reported an astounding 216% growth in new Mandarin learners compared to the same period last year. This unprecedented spike coincides with growing anxiety over TikTok&rsquo;s future, as its parent company, ByteDance, faces a government-imposed deadline of 19 January 2025 to divest its US operations or face an outright ban.
The ban stems from national security concerns, with US officials citing fears that user data could be accessed by the Chinese Communist Party. As the deadline approaches, TikTok users are taking drastic steps to stay connected with the platform's culture and content&mdash;some even migrating to a similar Chinese social app called RedNote (known in China as Xiaohongshu).
"Learning Mandarin Out of Spite?"
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Learning Mandarin out of spite? You're not alone. We&rsquo;ve seen a ~216% growth in new Chinese (Mandarin) learners in the US compared to this time last year. <a href="https://t.co/9hzwBxfTgD">https://t.co/9hzwBxfTgD</a> <a href="https://t.co/qWM9f5oFYA">pic.twitter.com/qWM9f5oFYA</a>
&mdash; Duolingo (@duolingo) <a href="https://twitter.com/duolingo/status/1879582775055176008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Duolingo's official X (formerly Twitter) account joined the conversation, posting: &ldquo;Oh, so NOW you&rsquo;re learning Mandarin.&rdquo; The app, which was the 18th most downloaded on Apple's US App Store last Thursday, has seen Mandarin outpace its traditionally popular offerings like Spanish, which saw just a 40% growth in the same period.
Other language-learning apps are also benefiting from the shift. Estonia-based Drops reported a threefold increase in users learning Mandarin, with a fivefold increase among US-based learners. Frederik Cordes, Drops&rsquo; general manager, attributes this surge to "external factors with strong contributions," referring to the impending TikTok ban.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4065/the-tiktok-exodus-how-rednote-is-becoming-the-new-digital-playground-for-us-users">The TikTok Exodus: How 'RedNote' Is Becoming The New Digital Playground For US Users</a>
RedNote: A New Digital Frontier
As TikTok's future hangs in the balance, RedNote is quickly emerging as a popular alternative. With over 700,000 new users reportedly joining the platform in just two days, the app&mdash;designed primarily in Mandarin&mdash;has become a destination for TikTok "refugees." The influx of US users has even prompted some Chinese RedNote users to start learning English, creating a unique cultural exchange.
Social media posts highlight this phenomenon, with videos of Americans sharing their initial attempts at Mandarin garnering significant attention. In one such video, a user points to their cat, saying in halting Mandarin, &ldquo;Hello, this is my cat. I am learning Mandarin. This is day one.&rdquo; Chinese users, in turn, have asked Americans for help with English homework, fostering unexpected moments of cross-cultural connection.
Here&rsquo;s of the interactions happening online:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
One of my favorite things on RedNote so far is the Chinese also making fun of how Brits say &ldquo;bottle of water&rdquo; 😂 <a href="https://t.co/wa2TyssoDO">pic.twitter.com/wa2TyssoDO</a>
&mdash; rae (@raewolff_) <a href="https://twitter.com/raewolff_/status/1879165577627095163?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RedNote?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RedNote</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TikTok?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TikTok</a> Guys, isn&rsquo;t this just how the world is supposed to be? <a href="https://t.co/muY2FNvdmF">pic.twitter.com/muY2FNvdmF</a>
&mdash; Selesha (@thebestkirin87) <a href="https://twitter.com/thebestkirin87/status/1879060981500072218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
LMAOO I LOVE REDNOTE 😭 <a href="https://t.co/xflT7ZQevd">pic.twitter.com/xflT7ZQevd</a>
&mdash; knight (@knghtie) <a href="https://twitter.com/knghtie/status/1879972014976585832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My cat tax on RedNote has been accepted 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/ZdfjaGqzSD">pic.twitter.com/ZdfjaGqzSD</a>
&mdash; Zombie ✨ Free Palestine! #CeasefireNow (@Zombie_GirlieTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/Zombie_GirlieTV/status/1879163329408872512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I downloaded that chinese rednote app to see what americans are up to and someone called me english learning material lmaooo I love them <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tiktokrefugees?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tiktokrefugees</a> <a href="https://t.co/o5YQoRAArr">pic.twitter.com/o5YQoRAArr</a>
&mdash; tudor (@tudorzeicu) <a href="https://twitter.com/tudorzeicu/status/1878766676067717274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2025</a></blockquote>

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The Uncertain Road Ahead for TikTok
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3e8aff720a42fc17ef0e3f0bd294cf1d4b48ea2d86a5c3699a38cce628968c0e" />
TikTok&rsquo;s US operations remain in limbo. While ByteDance has reportedly explored selling its US arm to potential buyers like Elon Musk, such rumours have been dismissed as "pure fiction." The platform has appealed to the Supreme Court to delay the ban, but if no resolution is reached, users opening the app post-ban will be greeted with a pop-up redirecting them to a website explaining the situation.
US President Joe Biden could extend the deadline by 90 days if significant progress on a deal is made, though this remains uncertain. Former President Donald Trump, who initially championed the TikTok ban, recently expressed a more conciliatory stance, suggesting he might support keeping the app operational.
A Cultural Shift in Progress
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1f2dac2ea07607209af08864fae84464aa211f76a737c67666dcd5912cfb3e94" />
This surge in language learning represents more than a simple act of defiance; it showcases a readiness to explore new platforms and connect across cultures, even amid geopolitical tensions. Whether TikTok weathers the ban or not, the wave of Americans learning Mandarin underscores the enduring power of digital communities and their ability to adapt and thrive.&nbsp;
Now, imagine a world where native English speakers increasingly embrace Mandarin. Such a shift could foster deeper understanding, bridging divides and creating opportunities for genuine unity between communities. Language barriers have long fuelled misunderstandings and prejudice, but this movement offers a hopeful glimpse into a future where cultural exchange paves the way for harmony and mutual respect. This might just be the start of something truly transformative.
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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Perhaps it’s time for us Malaysians to start learning Mandarin too.

82929d5e4d1d73273b4905e8736b0f94fd210fb7706765da55990ad764029f2d

Duolingo Mandarin Learners Surge After ‘TikTok Refugees’ Move To RedNote

d9d56c8e5c29847e2917983575418651c94c72608ef9e914a6542c4a698d7349

Scentify

e891e864574960ae21e3a00f338f06377dd53af0baffdac1786ad4ed7dad7721

Oatside

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Rohto

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A recent incident involving a Nintendo Switch 2 owner has highlighted growing concerns over Nintendo&rsquo;s strict anti-piracy measures, particularly as they relate to second-hand game purchases. <a href="https://myc.my/admin/youth-issues/A%20recent%20incident%20involving%20a%20Nintendo%20Switch%202%20owner%20has%20highlighted%20growing%20concerns%20over%20Nintendo&rsquo;s%20strict%20anti-piracy%20measures,%20particularly%20as%20they%20relate%20to%20second-hand%20game%20purchases.%20Reddit%20user%20dmanthey%20shared%20that%20after%20inserting%20several%20used%20Switch%20game%20cartridges%20&mdash;%20bought%20via%20Facebook%20Marketplace%20&mdash;%20into%20their%20new%20console%20to%20download%20patches,%20they%20were%20banned%20from%20accessing%20Nintendo%20Switch%20Online%20the%20very%20next%20day.">Reddit user dmanthey</a> shared that after inserting several used Switch game cartridges &mdash; bought via Facebook Marketplace &mdash; into their new console to download patches, they were banned from accessing Nintendo Switch Online the very next day.
Fortunately, the user was able to contact Nintendo Support, provide proof of purchase including photos of the listings and cartridges, and was quickly unbanned. They praised the process as "painless and fluid", though the situation has left many gamers unsettled.
Unique Cartridge IDs and Unintended Consequences
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0aeb99f0e279ccbfda4f92ca3c35a04b6c989338958bf86e4e3b5110404affc0" />
Nintendo&rsquo;s anti-piracy system relies on unique identifiers embedded in every physical Switch game card. If the same ID is detected on multiple consoles &mdash; often due to piracy or duplication tools &mdash; the system may automatically issue a ban, regardless of whether the current user is at fault. Even a genuine physical copy can be flagged if its identifier was previously cloned and uploaded illegally.
In this case, while the cartridges were confirmed to be valid by Nintendo, they likely originated from a batch that had been copied or exploited. The ban, therefore, wasn&rsquo;t about the cartridge itself, but about duplication detection triggered by its ID already being &ldquo;active&rdquo; elsewhere.
Piracy Devices Like MIG Flash a Growing Concern
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/681ed3e1eabee68ca49045273059935a909aa776f1b0f6cad0f1f133fc3d7f6a" />
The issue is exacerbated by piracy devices like the MIG Flash &mdash; a $65 (~RM276) Russian-made cartridge capable of running copied Switch games and now updated to support Switch 2 titles. Such devices clone cartridge identifiers, making it possible for the same game to appear simultaneously across multiple consoles.
Earlier this month, several Switch 2 users who experimented with MIG Flash &mdash; even to back up legally purchased games &mdash; also reported being banned. Nintendo has made its stance clear: any duplication of cartridge data, even for personal use, may violate its terms of service.
Updated Terms and Strong Enforcement
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/76b96ad6a4ff960e30db1f4826e395f9a1f17f9336e80e63116d7efdd783164d" />
Nintendo recently updated its terms and conditions (applicable primarily to US users), affirming that it can render both the user account and the device permanently unusable if unauthorised activity is detected. The strict enforcement reflects Nintendo&rsquo;s long-standing zero-tolerance approach to piracy, which has seen the company win numerous legal cases against piracy groups.
While these protections aim to safeguard intellectual property, they can sometimes ensnare unsuspecting buyers who unknowingly acquire flagged cartridges through unofficial channels like Facebook Marketplace or Carousell.
Quick Resolution, But a Warning for Gamers
The silver lining is that Nintendo&rsquo;s customer support appears well-equipped to handle false positives. Users who can provide sufficient evidence of legitimate ownership &mdash; such as receipts or seller correspondence &mdash; are often reinstated swiftly. In dmanthey&rsquo;s case, a brief live chat with support staff resolved the issue within hours.
However, this incident serves as a warning. With the Switch 2&rsquo;s backwards compatibility enabling older cartridges to function on the new system, buying second-hand games now carries added risk. Even a genuine cartridge can drag in the unintended consequences of a previous owner&rsquo;s actions.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My Switch 2 test has been banned, after using the mig switch with perfectly legal dumps of my own cartridges, so it would seem that Nintendo can detect something Similar reports on reddit are starting to come in.<a href="https://t.co/nbPMlRWSaP">https://t.co/nbPMlRWSaP</a><a href="https://t.co/3eq6dkbFMi">https://t.co/3eq6dkbFMi</a> I strongly&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/btzjQYJzE4">pic.twitter.com/btzjQYJzE4</a>
&mdash; SwitchTools (@SwitchTools) <a href="https://twitter.com/SwitchTools/status/1934637497985769875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote>

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Buyers Urged to Stay Vigilant
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/899839e51a706cbdbf04636a5635b00f2d2b336fddf6402a742f6ac8282c9dc3" />
Gamers are advised to purchase from official or well-reviewed retailers whenever possible. Those who choose to buy second-hand should be cautious and request detailed information about the game&rsquo;s usage history. It may also help to test cartridges on an older system before using them on a Switch 2 console, to avoid triggering a potential ban.
As Nintendo ramps up enforcement in the face of rising piracy tools and global game sharing, it remains to be seen how the company will balance security with user fairness. For now, players should proceed with caution &mdash; and be ready to defend their innocence if necessary.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Looks like legitimate users are being flagged by the anti-piracy system. 

8fb20b1114508800378bcdb15c245ff732de2a4fd8862cd1a9097272f13809ab

Nintendo Switch 2 Ban Sparks Caution Over Buying Used Games Online

PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar has pledged full legal support for a traumatised teenage boy and his family, following allegations of sexual misconduct involving a well-known religious figure &mdash; referred to widely as a &ldquo;celebrity ustaz.&rdquo;
According to Nurul Izzah&rsquo;s public statement on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nurulizzahanwar/posts/pfbid02g8yNGTsjPeLRA72dBMfN3WKaHgCcP1k1c1kGPyW5onY6mzntrKJwXuBPS22JEdpl">Facebook</a>, the disturbing incident took place after the ustaz persuaded the boy to accompany him across state lines to attend a nasyid performance. The ustaz is said to have taken advantage of the boy&rsquo;s passion for Islamic music, using it as a lure to gain his trust.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/921fa2fdd1cc6f8e82bec89ba79095e2e18ebbab74b54c78b058f6f5c9f37e33" />
Being from a B40 (low-income) household and looking up to the man as a respected religious figure, the boy agreed. However, once in the privacy of a hotel room, the encounter turned predatory. The ustaz allegedly slipped his hand into the boy&rsquo;s trousers and groped him.
Frightened, shocked, and alone, the boy locked himself in the bathroom for five hours, hiding until the ustaz fell asleep. He then managed to escape and contacted a family member. A police report was promptly lodged.
A Pattern of Abuse Allegedly Ignored
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/19310f271f1552ff98b7cc433b158fbd416d38e562d8fab0ca8f6f674ac3a20b" />
What makes the situation even more alarming is that this was not the first time complaints had been raised against the same ustaz. Nurul Izzah revealed that multiple police reports had been filed in the past, all involving similarly disturbing allegations.
&ldquo;Why was no action taken since the first report? Why is this man still free and continuing to use the title &lsquo;ustaz&rsquo; as a mask for his vile actions?&rdquo; she questioned in her post.
The lack of action by authorities has reignited concerns about the systemic failure to protect victims, particularly when accused individuals hold religious or social influence. Instead of facing accountability, the ustaz has since responded by filing a defamation lawsuit against the boy&rsquo;s family &mdash; demanding a public apology and financial compensation worth hundreds of thousands of ringgit.
The family, already struggling financially, now faces the emotional and financial burden of this legal assault. &ldquo;They are a B40 family. They have almost no savings. The whole family is in tears, asking why Allah is testing them so severely,&rdquo; Nurul Izzah shared.
Support and Legal Aid from Nurul Izzah
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5522107c1d57355fc761d6887ea1cc469f57d1de82a324eeb68d331700c2c37b" />
In response, the former Permatang Pauh MP has promised to assemble a team of lawyers to defend the boy and his family. She reaffirmed her commitment to justice, declaring that she would not yield under pressure.
&ldquo;If they want to sue, I will fight. I will bring in a legal team. I will ensure this child is protected and that justice is served, God willing,&rdquo; she wrote. Her words have since drawn widespread public support.
Nurul Izzah also acknowledged the devastating psychological toll the incident has had on the young victim. &ldquo;This boy once dreamed of becoming a teacher &mdash; to educate and build a better society. But now, he is traumatised,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;He attends regular counselling sessions, relies on medication, and his academic performance has sharply declined.&rdquo;
Calls for Accountability and Reform
The incident has raised wider questions about the accountability of religious figures and the institutional reluctance to act in cases involving individuals of influence. Critics are demanding to know why earlier reports were apparently ignored and why known offenders continue to avoid prosecution.
Many have also condemned the use of strategic lawsuits (SLAPPs) &mdash; in this case, a defamation suit seemingly designed to silence and intimidate victims and their families.
&ldquo;This is not just about one boy or one family. It&rsquo;s about every vulnerable child out there who has placed their trust in someone who was supposed to guide them,&rdquo; said Nurul Izzah.
A Broader Failure to Protect
The incident adds to a growing number of cases in Malaysia involving religious figures accused of abuse, often shielded by their status and public persona. Public confidence in authorities is being tested as such cases emerge, often accompanied by allegations of police inaction or delayed response.
The Malaysian public &mdash; particularly child protection and women&rsquo;s rights advocates &mdash; have expressed outrage over this case, calling for stricter safeguards, faster investigations, and stronger legal mechanisms to protect victims of sexual crimes, regardless of the perpetrator&rsquo;s background.
Justice for the Boy, Justice for All
As the legal process begins, Nurul Izzah has vowed to walk every step of the way with the boy and his family. Her involvement not only offers tangible legal assistance but also sends a powerful political and moral signal: that no one is above accountability &mdash; not even those cloaked in religious respectability.
&ldquo;Justice must not be selective. It must not be delayed. It must not be bought or silenced,&rdquo; she wrote. &ldquo;I will not take a single step back. Not when a child&rsquo;s dignity and future are on the line.&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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02fe0f7545c9cf37027a227f2526df51697b9f6ffd2102276ce92a1d2885d407

Nurul Izzah Pledges Legal Aid for Boy Allegedly Assaulted By Celebrity Ustaz

Chinese Animated Epic Gets English Release
The record-smashing Chinese animated film Ne Zha 2 is set to make its English-language theatrical debut across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand on 22 August 2025, with Academy Award-winning actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh among its voice cast. The English dub marks a rare collaboration between A24, known for its distinctive and critically acclaimed films, and CMC Pictures, a key player in global Chinese film distribution.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8ba0cfdd6fc92180c66061f9ffe2c3b87da3889444644e4a17e95377e14cbeb8" />
Yeoh will voice Ne Zha&rsquo;s mother in the English version and described the film as a &ldquo;landmark in Chinese animation&rdquo; that speaks to the universality of myth and storytelling.
&ldquo;Sharing this with audiences in English is such a joy,&rdquo; Yeoh said in a statement. &ldquo;I can&rsquo;t wait for everyone to experience the wonder, heart, spectacular artistry, and magic of this film on the big screen.&rdquo;
A Cultural Phenomenon
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/218bb580336c54faadea355650607508761d070cdb5237dd4029d3a0da9c7ae8" />
Written and directed by Yang Yu, Ne Zha 2 is based on centuries-old Chinese mythology and follows the story of Ne Zha, a rebellious demi-god feared by the heavens. Born with uncontrollable powers to mortal parents, he must rise above his destiny to confront ancient forces threatening humanity. The film also explores the politics of gods and demons, offering a deeper and more layered sequel to 2019&rsquo;s Ne Zha, which grossed US$726 million globally.
The sequel was released in China on 29 January 2025, during the Lunar New Year holiday, and became a cultural phenomenon. It reached US$1 billion at the box office in under two weeks&mdash;making it the first non-Hollywood film in history to do so. By the end of its 153-day run, it grossed an astonishing 15.45 billion yuan (approximately RM9.16 billion).
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gsiAYjyiIBM" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Breaking Records and Barriers
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/92885dcb36cc852274b034d7b6a1b4387770ed471575752bf11dc45179201e82" />
Ne Zha 2 has now surpassed Pixar&rsquo;s Inside Out 2 to become the highest-grossing animated film of all time, with a total global box office of US$2.2 billion. It also holds the title of the highest-grossing non-English-language film and is the fifth highest-grossing film globally, outperforming Star Wars: The Force Awakens in a single territory.
This record-breaking success is especially significant amid a slowdown in China&rsquo;s box office over the past year. Analysts say the film&rsquo;s remarkable performance&mdash;fuelled by domestic pride, folklore, and high production values&mdash;has revived confidence in Chinese cinema.
A Cross-Cultural Experiment
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/07559a52d35be988e19c6f07959171aee9de62e6370e4eebb77c5565363702c4" />From Left: &nbsp;Michelle Yeoh, Aleks Le, Crystal Lee and Vincent Rodriguez III
A24 and CMC Pictures are hoping to replicate that success in English-speaking markets with a dubbed version presented in IMAX, 3D, and other premium formats. The English cast includes Michelle Yeoh, Aleks Le, Crystal Lee, and Filipino-American actor Vincent Rodriguez III.
This version is expected to perform beyond its earlier limited release in North America, which brought in US$20.8 million despite being shown in Mandarin. CMC first announced the English-language adaptation at the Beijing International Film Festival earlier this year.
This move also reflects an emerging trend in global cinema&mdash;one that blends Eastern storytelling with Western accessibility. A24&rsquo;s involvement signals a growing willingness among American distributors to take risks on non-Hollywood stories, while CMC continues to champion Chinese films on the world stage.
Redefining Animation&rsquo;s Global Future
Beyond its commercial triumph, Ne Zha 2 represents a new era for animated storytelling. Its success shows that audiences worldwide are embracing more diverse narratives rooted in mythology and culture.
Michelle Yeoh, who also stars in the Wicked films and won her Oscar for Everything Everywhere All At Once, called her involvement in the project deeply meaningful.
&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a powerful reminder of how universal our stories can be.&rdquo;
As Ne Zha 2 prepares to enter Western theatres, it&rsquo;s poised not just to entertain, but to shift the conversation around what global animation can be&mdash;visually stunning, culturally rich, and emotionally resonant.
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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The global box office sensation arrives in Western cinemas this August, in a rare A24-CMC Pictures collaboration bridging East and West.

4e2f07dc5b9e9f5d44db451d02eff7ef625239b07bab969da3790ed85a733bc1

Michelle Yeoh Lends Her Voice To English Release Of Record-Breaking Animated Epic Ne Zha 2

In a powerful and symbolic act of protest, members of the Malaysian Bar today undertook a rare 2.6-kilometre march from the Palace of Justice to the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office (PMO), calling for urgent reforms to protect the integrity and independence of the Malaysian judiciary.
Dressed in black suits and long-sleeved attire, the lawyers walked under the mid-afternoon sun and threat of rain, a visible demonstration of their steadfast commitment to the rule of law and the Federal Constitution. The event marks only the sixth time in its 78-year history that the Bar has taken to the streets &mdash; underscoring the seriousness of its demands.
A Historic Tradition of &ldquo;Walking for Justice&rdquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d183b5bf87da4b8d5cdeb71031b23bd492f060529b3a6ea76c0e5d5a0d84a794" />
The Malaysian Bar, formed in 1947, has historically refrained from public demonstrations unless absolutely necessary. In fact, today's walk joins a select list of previous marches in the Bar&rsquo;s timeline &mdash; each tied to major concerns about justice, governance, and constitutional rights.
<ul>
<li>1981: The first walk, involving around 100 lawyers, protested proposed amendments to the Societies Act and the Federal Constitution. The changes were seen as a threat to freedom of association and parliamentary democracy.</li>
<li>2007: The now-famous &ldquo;Walk for Justice&rdquo; responded to the VK Lingam video scandal, which exposed alleged manipulation in judicial appointments.</li>
<li>2011: Lawyers marched against the Peaceful Assembly Bill, citing unreasonable limits on the constitutional right to assemble.</li>
<li>2014: The Bar called for the repeal of the Sedition Act 1948, marching under the theme &ldquo;Walk for Peace and Freedom&rdquo;.</li>
<li>2022: A planned &ldquo;Walk for Judicial Independence&rdquo; was blocked by police, prompting a government official to receive the Bar&rsquo;s memorandum at Padang Merbok instead.</li>
</ul>
Each of these demonstrations was motivated by a deep concern that judicial integrity, civil liberties, or constitutional balance was under threat.
Why They Are Walking Now
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/d489646dc9a143cd105ad310e4df593cc619c19af3cbf7869e04cb5d8b62918f" />
Today&rsquo;s march &mdash; dubbed the &ldquo;Walk to Safeguard Judicial Independence&rdquo; &mdash; has been described by Bar leaders as a peaceful, lawful, and symbolic action in response to troubling developments in Malaysia&rsquo;s judicial landscape. At the heart of the issue is concern over alleged delays, non-transparent processes, and potential executive interference in judicial appointments.
Upon arrival at the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office, Bar representatives submitted a memorandum outlining four key demands:
<ol>
<li>Immediate filling of judicial vacancies, particularly in top leadership positions, to ensure continuity and prevent delays in court proceedings.</li>
<li>Transparency from the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC), including public disclosure of recent meeting minutes to show how decisions are being made.</li>
<li>Establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate possible political or executive interference in judicial affairs.</li>
<li>Appointment of judges based on integrity and merit, not political considerations &mdash; ensuring candidates have a proven track record and are free of bias or scandal.</li>
</ol>
&ldquo;This Is Not About Individuals, But Institutions&rdquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/92db8e5d8bda394d448d7d913cdc84f264c3019be23187d7ce3fdfb2f23f2134" />
Speaking ahead of the march, Malaysian Bar president Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab emphasised that this protest was not aimed at any particular individual but rather the systemic issues facing Malaysia&rsquo;s judicial system.
&ldquo;When the independence of the judiciary becomes fragile, the entire nation bears the consequences,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;This march is a collective expression of the legal profession&rsquo;s deep concern and unwavering commitment to upholding the Constitution, the separation of powers, and the rule of law. We cannot allow judicial independence to be compromised by any form of political or external influence.&rdquo;
He also dismissed claims that the march was in protest of the non-extension of the tenures of the former Chief Justice and Court of Appeal President, saying the Bar&rsquo;s concerns go far beyond personalities and focus on structural weaknesses and lack of transparency.
Police Monitoring and Crowd Management
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Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Mohamed Usuf Jan Mohamad confirmed that the Bar had submitted a formal application to hold the march. A total of 105 police personnel were deployed to monitor and secure the peaceful assembly. Authorities estimated that around 200 lawyers and supporters took part.
Police advised participants to comply with the Peaceful Assembly Act and reminded the public that gatherings of this nature are allowed under the law as long as proper notice is given.
A Legal Duty to Speak Out
Under Section 42(1)(a) of the Legal Profession Act 1976, the Malaysian Bar is mandated to "uphold the cause of justice without regard to its own interests or that of its members, uninfluenced by fear or favour.&rdquo; The march, therefore, is not only a right but a responsibility &mdash; an act of public duty when the stakes are perceived to be high.
With over 23,600 members representing legal professionals across Peninsular Malaysia, the Bar&rsquo;s role as an institutional check and voice of conscience has once again come to the fore.
Broader Reforms Under Discussion
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The timing of the march is crucial. The Conference of Rulers is set to convene from 15 to 17 July, with judicial appointments likely to be on the agenda. Under current practice, the Prime Minister advises the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on judge appointments based on recommendations by the JAC, after consultation with the Conference.
In parallel, the Malaysian Bar is expected to hold an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on 26 July, where members will discuss resolutions tied to judicial leadership, independence, vacancies, and the appointment process.
Minister in the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Department for Law and Institutional Reform, Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, has assured that top judicial vacancies will be filled in accordance with the Federal Constitution and the Judicial Appointments Commission Act.
Moreover, the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) has announced that Malaysia will begin comparative research on judicial appointment systems in the United Kingdom, Australia, India, and Singapore. This study is expected to provide input for a potential overhaul of the local system to ensure greater transparency, fairness, and public confidence.
A Turning Point for the Judiciary?
Today&rsquo;s walk is more than a symbolic gesture &mdash; it reflects a legal community at a crossroads, increasingly concerned that the current framework does not provide sufficient safeguards for an independent judiciary.
If the government and relevant stakeholders heed the Bar&rsquo;s call for reform, the march could become a catalyst for long-term institutional strengthening. If ignored, it may foreshadow greater unrest within the legal fraternity and further erosion of public trust in the justice system.
For now, the message from Malaysia&rsquo;s lawyers is clear: the rule of law is not optional &mdash; and it must be defended, even if it means walking the long road to Putrajaya.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Malaysia’s legal fraternity stands up for the courts. 

cae8ae04018b048e081951a212e05ade00f9e6337ed2ab6d1cf10bf1dac57d6e

Malaysian Bar Marches To Protect Judicial Independence In Rare Show Of Protest

After nearly four years away from releasing new music, Canadian pop megastar Justin Bieber has officially returned with Swag, his highly anticipated seventh studio album. Released on 11 July 2025, the surprise drop was preceded by a global guerrilla marketing campaign that had fans and media speculating across continents.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Billboard of Justin Bieber with the word &ldquo;SWAG&rdquo; has been spotted in Reykjavik, Iceland. <a href="https://t.co/yDd3sb6MIs">pic.twitter.com/yDd3sb6MIs</a>
&mdash; Pop Crave (@PopCrave) <a href="https://twitter.com/PopCrave/status/1943350073934410025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Mysterious black-and-white billboards began popping up in cities like Reykjav&iacute;k, Los Angeles, and New York, some showing Bieber shirtless beside his wife Hailey Bieber and their 10-month-old son Jack Blues, while others featured a cryptic list of track titles. These subtle hints culminated in Bieber posting a video of a Times Square screen unveiling what appeared to be the final tracklist, effectively confirming the album&rsquo;s imminent release.
A More Vulnerable, Experimental Sound
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/18cf4e9263459f958c5c5d9cd153c36af9779f0321d29554063bec100498061d" />
Swag features 21 tracks and represents a significant shift in tone and musical direction for Bieber. According to sources close to the singer, the album is &ldquo;darker, more vulnerable, and less polished&rdquo; than previous releases &mdash; but intentionally so.
&ldquo;There&rsquo;s a raw honesty here,&rdquo; said one insider. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not depressing, but it&rsquo;s definitely deeper. Justin&rsquo;s been through a lot personally, and that shows in the music.&rdquo; His experiences over the past few years &mdash; from grappling with health challenges to embracing fatherhood &mdash; appear to have profoundly influenced the emotional depth and thematic content of the album.
Built on Collaboration and Rediscovery
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9165219af4e17d030ca28f6cad3fe3cba5f56ebab9b15dde0690aa15e9b6db1d" />
To shape the sonic palette of Swag, Bieber surrounded himself with a diverse group of collaborators. Longtime musical partners like DJ Tay James and producer Harv returned, while new voices such as Carter Lang (a known SZA collaborator), Australian artist Eddie Benjamin, and even U.K. singer-songwriter Sekou brought fresh energy into the studio.
The album also boasts a wide range of guest appearances, including Gunna, Sexyy Red, Cash Cobain, Lil B, and others. These features complement Bieber&rsquo;s explorations into a more R&amp;B-rooted yet genre-fluid soundscape &mdash; a move that marks artistic growth and risk-taking.
Full Tracklist: A Glimpse Into Bieber&rsquo;s Mindset
<iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/5vD5M5VW62LL78Ko8x0CVZ?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" loading="lazy"></iframe>
Several of the track names &mdash; like Dadz Love, Therapy Session, and Forgiveness &mdash; hint at the album&rsquo;s introspective core, with themes of fatherhood, self-reflection, and emotional healing running throughout.
Life After Justice: Changes Behind the Scenes
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/861a4d6e76f5c8428d1b1323b47be4821380e194dd0366b2d19ba536caf7a639" />
Bieber&rsquo;s last album, Justice (2021), was intended to be supported by a major global tour. However, much of the tour was cancelled due to health concerns, and Bieber soon began stepping away from the public eye.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/1672/justin-bieber-puts-justice-world-tour-on-hold-due-to-health-concerns">Justin Bieber Puts Justice World Tour On Hold Due To Health Concerns</a>
Since then, his professional life has undergone a major transformation. He split from longtime manager Scooter Braun in 2023 after financial tensions involving a loan used to settle Bieber&rsquo;s contractual obligations with promoter AEG for the cancelled Justice tour. Braun and Bieber later resolved their financial dispute privately.
That same year, Bieber sold his music catalogue to Hipgnosis Songs Capital in a landmark deal reportedly worth over USD 200 million, marking one of the largest catalogue sales in music history by an artist under 30.
Meanwhile, Hailey Bieber &mdash; his wife since 2018 &mdash; sold her Rhode Beauty skincare brand to e.l.f. Beauty for USD 1 billion, further cementing the couple&rsquo;s place as one of pop culture&rsquo;s most influential young power duos.
A New Chapter: Music, Fatherhood, and Creative Freedom
Bieber&rsquo;s move to return with Swag seems to be about more than just music. It's a reintroduction of sorts &mdash; not as the clean-cut teen idol of the My World era, but as a grown man, a husband, a father, and an independent artist in full control of his direction.
Sources revealed that much of Swag was shaped during intimate jam sessions at Bieber&rsquo;s home and later in a studio retreat in Iceland. These creative getaways allowed Bieber to experiment and reconnect with music away from the pressures of fame and expectation.
What Comes Next?
It remains to be seen whether Swag will top the charts like his previous records &mdash; including eight Billboard No. 1 albums &mdash; but it undeniably marks a bold and heartfelt evolution in his artistry.
One thing&rsquo;s certain: Swag isn&rsquo;t just an album. It&rsquo;s a statement of where Justin Bieber is now &mdash; emotionally, artistically, and personally &mdash; and fans will be eager to hear how far he&rsquo;s come.
What do you think of the album so far? 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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Hold off on those other tracks, Justin Bieber just dropped ‘Swag’, and it might be his most personal album yet.

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