Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Money

issue

China

South Korea

Donald Trump

integrity

tariffs

labels

transhipment

smuggling

As the United States reinstates heavy tariffs on Chinese imports under former President Donald Trump, a new trade controversy is emerging &mdash; and Malaysia finds itself unwillingly at the centre of it. Reports have surfaced that unscrupulous freight brokers based in China are rerouting goods through Malaysia and mislabelling them as "Made in Malaysia" to evade the steep US duties, raising serious concerns over the potential damage to Malaysia's trade reputation.
From Trade Partner to Transit Point: Malaysia&rsquo;s Role in a Rising Smuggling Tactic
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4d8cc18d4a0ca3a7db37c9bc2a167dafe4a6f5789aa5c653a38e7fb11337eb08" />
According to reports by Malay Mail and Bloomberg, China-based logistics brokers have been offering US online retailers highly suspicious services to cut down on shipping costs. These include falsifying the country of origin and undervaluing shipments &mdash; with Malaysia being one of the key countries misused in this deception. Some brokers even go as far as posing as importers themselves, offering to handle the documentation and falsely declare the goods as Malaysian-made.
&ldquo;Many clients are now choosing to route Chinese products through Malaysia and claim they are made here,&rdquo; said one freight broker to Bloomberg. The motivation is clear: while Chinese goods are currently facing tariffs as high as 145% in the United States, products genuinely originating from Malaysia are only subject to a 24% import duty.
The scheme is not only unethical but also illegal under US customs law. False declarations of origin constitute a serious offence and may result in civil or criminal penalties for all parties involved &mdash; including sellers, brokers, and importers. As of now, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has not officially confirmed whether enforcement has been ramped up, though they have reiterated that public reports and complaints through their online portal remain a key part of enforcement efforts.
Trump&rsquo;s Tariff Surge Sparks a Wave of Workarounds
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6bcb751a7431f4b2e92f42c60b618422d15d5c3547bafa7eed5f254cc236183f" />
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4265/us-slaps-up-to-3521percent-tariffs-on-asean-solar-panels-threatening-malaysias-export-industry">US Slaps Up To 3,521% Tariffs On ASEAN Solar Panels, Threatening Malaysia&rsquo;s Export Industry</a> Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/4218/the-impact-of-new-us-tariffs-on-malaysia-jobs-prices-and-the-iphone">The Impact Of New US Tariffs On Malaysia: Jobs, Prices, And The iPhone</a>
This illicit practice appears to have surged after Trump&rsquo;s announcement earlier this month of a new round of trade tariffs, starting at 10% for all imports into the US. Specifically, China has been targeted with the steepest hikes &mdash; first 54%, then 104%, and most recently a staggering 145%. China retaliated by imposing 125% tariffs on US goods, prompting fears of a full-blown trade war echoing previous years.
Even Malaysia &mdash; previously unaffected by the bulk of US trade restrictions &mdash; was not spared. Under Trump&rsquo;s revised policy, Malaysian exports to the US now face a 24% import tariff. Although significantly lower than the Chinese rate, it still marks a steep increase from previous levels and could pose challenges for legitimate Malaysian exporters.
The escalating tariff war has caused an upheaval in the global supply chain. Some Chinese companies are now resorting to third-country transhipment strategies to sidestep duties &mdash; with Malaysia and even South Korea among the countries being exploited as part of this growing black market workaround.
South Korea Faces Similar Challenges with Mislabelled Chinese Goods
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e4e9aa3a91010b9cc4c8d83659a4fbf4a16525928c0522d2834663ff1275d047" />
Malaysia is not alone in this predicament. South Korea, too, has discovered large-scale violations involving Chinese goods being falsely labelled as South Korean exports. According to the Korea Customs Service, a staggering 29.5 billion won (~RM91,000,000) worth of goods with incorrect origin labels were uncovered in just the first quarter of 2025 &mdash; with 97% of them destined for the US market.
The violations include Chinese-made cathode materials and surveillance equipment that were either reassembled in South Korea or relabelled outright before being shipped to the United States. Some of these goods had already been exported, while others were intercepted at the port.
In response, the Korea Customs Service has launched a special task force and is working closely with US authorities to crack down on these illegal transhipment practices. All violations are expected to be forwarded to prosecutors for legal action.
Malaysia Urged to Act Swiftly to Protect Its Trade Integrity
Malaysian trade analysts are now sounding the alarm. If this misuse continues unchecked, Malaysia&rsquo;s international credibility as a law-abiding trade partner could be at risk. The country's legitimate exporters may find themselves subject to heightened scrutiny by US authorities, leading to delays, increased compliance checks, and potential blacklisting.
There are growing calls for the Malaysian government to act decisively. Trade groups and analysts alike have urged authorities to investigate any abuse of Malaysia&rsquo;s national label and clamp down on foreign attempts to exploit its relatively favourable tariff position. They argue that failing to act could result in long-term reputational damage, making it harder for Malaysian exporters to maintain market access abroad.
&ldquo;Malaysia needs to take swift action to prevent being used as a cover for tariff evasion. This is not just about trade, but about safeguarding our nation's integrity,&rdquo; one analyst said
Understanding Tariffs and Why They Matter
&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://r2.myc.my/ebdd724d306175630884f79b28dbb2541fa11e0b59529929bfd382852e84cb8c" />
For those unfamiliar with trade policy, tariffs are essentially taxes imposed by one country on goods imported from another. The idea is to make foreign products more expensive, thereby protecting domestic industries and discouraging reliance on overseas suppliers.
But while tariffs serve a political and economic purpose, they also create ripple effects. For instance, Malaysian Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz previously explained that a shirt originally priced at USD 100 (~RM656.25) could cost as much as USD 154 (~RM673.75) after a 54% tariff &mdash; a cost that is typically borne by end consumers rather than corporations.
According to the Tax Foundation, tariffs are a regressive form of taxation. They disproportionately affect low-income households, who end up spending a larger share of their income on essential goods that have suddenly become more expensive due to import taxes.
A Trade War With Global Consequences
As Trump hints at a possible reduction in the 145% tariff on Chinese goods &mdash; stating it will "drop significantly, but not to zero" &mdash; the uncertainty continues to roil global markets. What is clear, however, is that countries like Malaysia must tread carefully. Being caught in the crossfire of a geopolitical trade war not only endangers economic interests but also risks entanglement in a global web of fraud and deception.
Malaysia must now navigate these turbulent waters with a firm stance, ensuring its name is not co-opted by foreign actors for unlawful gain, and upholding its hard-earned reputation as a responsible global trading partner. The time to act is now.
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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South Korea also uncovered falsely labelled goods, highlighting the scale of the transhipment schemes.

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Malaysia Caught In US-China Trade War As Chinese Firms Mislabel Exports To Avoid Tariffs

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Scentify

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Oatside

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Rohto

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The United States will impose a sweeping 25% tariff on all Malaysian products entering the country from 1 August 2025. The move, announced by former US President Donald J. Trump in an official letter dated 7 July to both Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, signals a significant escalation in US-Malaysia trade relations.
Trump cited longstanding grievances over Malaysia&rsquo;s trade practices, specifically &ldquo;tariff, non-tariff policies and trade barriers&rdquo; that he claims have created an &ldquo;unsustainable&rdquo; trade deficit. The letter, also posted on his Truth Social platform, reflects the former president&rsquo;s familiar stance on rebalancing trade ties with US partners.
&ldquo;Relationship Has Been Far From Reciprocal&rdquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2958ae1ab385de2c25ee5e30e0936366f1c080ab474a39507054532bc9a99b8c" />
In the letter, Trump acknowledged the longstanding economic partnership between the two countries but insisted it had been one-sided.
&ldquo;We have had years to discuss our trading relationship with Malaysia,&rdquo; he wrote, &ldquo;and have concluded that we must move away from these long term, and very persistent trade deficits engendered by Malaysia&rsquo;s tariff and non-tariff policies.&rdquo;
The blanket 25% tariff will be imposed across all sectors, separate from any existing sectoral tariffs. These include additional levies&mdash;25% on automotive exports and up to 50% on steel and aluminium products&mdash;affecting manufacturing-heavy countries in the region.
No Tariff for US-Based Manufacturing
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fa1043982fa099d07eebbdb7887243953f2e8292773e3749af89270009023381" />
To soften the blow, Trump offered Malaysian companies an alternative: relocate manufacturing operations to the United States. He pledged that products made within US borders would be exempt from the new tariff.
&ldquo;There will be no tariff if Malaysia, or companies within your country, decide to build or manufacture products within the United States,&rdquo; he said, adding that his administration would facilitate swift approvals &ldquo;in a matter of weeks.&rdquo;
Warning Against Retaliation and Transshipping
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/aa36b7c613ec04b72bbd241ed96a996d6315fabf8cd11a06913886e3a694d020" />
Trump further warned that any attempt by Malaysia to retaliate with higher tariffs on US imports would be met with an equivalent increase on top of the existing 25% rate.
&ldquo;If, for any reason, you decide to raise your tariffs, then whatever number you choose will be added onto the 25% we charge,&rdquo; he declared.
Additionally, goods transshipped from or through Malaysia to avoid higher tariffs will also be taxed at the highest applicable rate. This measure is in line with Washington&rsquo;s broader clampdown on transshipments&mdash;especially from China&mdash;via third countries in Southeast Asia.
The tariff rate, initially announced as 24% in April under Trump&rsquo;s &ldquo;Liberation Day Tariffs&rdquo; package targeting 49 countries, was temporarily paused for 90 days to allow for negotiations. Malaysia held formal trade talks in Washington from 18&ndash;20 June and had expressed hope for concessions, particularly for its electronics and export manufacturing sectors.
However, with talks yielding little progress, Trump extended the pause by three weeks before increasing the tariff rate by one point to 25%.
Part of Wider Regional Clampdown
Malaysia is not alone in facing higher US import duties. Japan and South Korea were also notified of a 25% tariff, while Indonesia faces a 32% rate, Thailand 36%, and Laos and Myanmar 40%&mdash;down from Trump&rsquo;s earlier April figures. Cambodia, meanwhile, saw its proposed tariff reduced from 49% to 36%.
Notably, Malaysia&rsquo;s inclusion alongside close US allies Japan and South Korea was seen by some as a sign of parity, albeit a painful one.
&ldquo;We are in the same club,&rdquo; one senior Malaysian trade official remarked anonymously, &ldquo;but we expected some reduction&mdash;not a hike.&rdquo;
Market Concerns and Economic Impact
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3fb94d6cf87b7b7cbd57ec7539443172e968ec3f152da94b937bfc160d9694f7" />
The new tariff comes as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepares for his first official visit to Malaysia during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers&rsquo; Meeting. His arrival is expected to bring further diplomatic dialogue, although the tone has already been set by Trump&rsquo;s announcement.
Experts have warned of broader economic implications. &ldquo;A 25% tariff will have a major impact on exports including in-demand items like autos and semiconductors,&rdquo; said William Alan Reinsch of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies. &ldquo;It means higher prices in the US and slower economies in affected countries.&rdquo;
Trump&rsquo;s Unpredictable Trade Playbook
Trump&rsquo;s move follows a familiar pattern&mdash;announce a tariff, offer a deadline, and extend it if needed. With the 1 August deadline looming, many wonder whether another delay is in store&mdash;or if this time, the tariffs will truly take effect.
Wendy Cutler, former US trade negotiator, said the timing may still allow room for breakthroughs. &ldquo;While the news is disappointing, it doesn&rsquo;t mean the game is over,&rdquo; she noted, pointing out that last-minute deals, like the one recently struck with Vietnam, could still emerge.
Malaysia&rsquo;s Next Move
As of now, Putrajaya has yet to issue an official response to the new 25% tariff. However, trade officials say negotiations will continue. Malaysia remains hopeful that diplomacy can still bring relief to its crucial export sectors and mitigate the blow to its economy.
Until then, businesses and exporters brace for impact&mdash;while watching closely whether Trump&rsquo;s tariff ultimatum holds firm or shifts once more.
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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New tariff takes effect 1 August; transshipped goods face threat of even higher duties.

614bc4acbd1ca10c74719f1de9336ccaa0bed73b845a1ff077071315d6a56513

Trump Imposes 25% Tariff On Malaysian Goods Amid Escalating Trade Tensions

A group of over 30 cyclists has triggered widespread backlash after sharing a video online depicting a confrontation with a RapidKL bus driver along Jalan Bestari, Kuala Selangor. The incident, which took place on the morning of Sunday, 6 July, was initially intended to expose what the cyclists described as dangerous and aggressive driving. Instead, it drew unexpected public sympathy for the bus driver and ignited a broader debate about road etiquette in Malaysia.
Cyclists Accuse Driver of Reckless Behaviour
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In the viral video, the cyclists alleged they were riding safely on the left-most lane of the road when the bus driver approached at high speed and allegedly swerved dangerously close to their formation. According to one of the cyclists who posted on TikTok under the username @spaceramenn, &ldquo;He almost hit our cyclists while the right lane was empty. He could&rsquo;ve just moved to the right lane for a few seconds.&rdquo;
The group claimed the incident wasn&rsquo;t isolated. They accused the driver of having behaved similarly earlier that morning, suggesting a pattern of intimidation. Matters escalated when the bus came to a halt, and the driver exited the vehicle to confront the cyclists directly. According to their post, the driver attempted to physically assault one of them, kicking at a cyclist during the roadside argument.
Public Shaming Backfires: Personal Info Shared Online
In what appeared to be an attempt to seek public support and prompt disciplinary action, the cyclists shared the driver&rsquo;s full name, bus registration plate, and employee ID on social media platforms. However, their efforts backfired. Rather than drawing outrage towards the driver, the post unleashed a wave of criticism against the cyclists themselves.
Many Malaysians took issue with the decision to publicly doxx the driver, pointing out that he appeared calm and collected in the video, even when surrounded by a large, agitated group. The release of personal information without due process also raised concerns about online harassment and trial by social media.
JPJ Intervenes and Defuses the Situation
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/24da9296121450e449c634ebca9d6be4595ec96d7b7f1569e2b36f437c2f40dd" />
As luck&mdash;or misfortune&mdash;would have it, the confrontation took place not far from a Road Transport Department (JPJ) office. Officers who happened to be nearby responded promptly and de-escalated the situation. They separated both parties and provided guidance, reminding the cyclists to remain on the far-left side of the road for their own safety.
According to the cyclists, they insisted they had already been doing so. However, video footage and witness commentary suggested that several riders were cycling side-by-side, taking up more space than advisable and potentially obstructing traffic.
Netizens Side with the Bus Driver
Public sentiment online quickly leaned in favour of the bus driver. Social media users commented in droves, with many expressing frustration about the behaviour of large cycling groups on Malaysian roads. &ldquo;Hundreds of comments flooded the post&mdash;and nearly all of them defended the bus driver,&rdquo; one observer noted.
A particularly popular comment summed up the sentiment: &ldquo;We criticise kids on &lsquo;basikal lajak&rsquo; for being reckless on roads, but now adults are setting the same poor example.&rdquo; Others pointed out the professionalism displayed by the driver, who didn&rsquo;t retaliate aggressively despite being provoked.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a92c48025ec39b283721dedccd2afff395da1407f9440957eebc7ed8b68cc8a0" />
Wider Debate on Cycling Etiquette Resurfaces
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e551aff892d85e2e1fd0650c8e8c107a0471841072faf3bf1d4592521edf05b6" />
The incident has reignited discussions about road-sharing norms, particularly when it comes to cyclists using public roads. Although cyclists are legally allowed to use the roads, their presence&mdash;especially in large numbers&mdash;often leads to tension with motorists.
Some users argued that cycling in large groups during peak hours or on busy roads can be dangerous not only for the cyclists themselves but for others as well. The lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure in many parts of Malaysia has only added to the problem, forcing cyclists and vehicles to compete for limited space.
Calls for Road Safety Reform and Public Awareness
In the wake of the backlash, many have called for the government and relevant authorities to take a more proactive stance. Suggestions include introducing clearer cycling regulations, investing in dedicated bicycle lanes, and launching public campaigns on shared road responsibilities.
&ldquo;Cyclists want respect, but that comes with responsibility,&rdquo; one commenter wrote. &ldquo;If you&rsquo;re holding up traffic and causing a hazard, you should expect some level of pushback.&rdquo;
Others proposed that both motorists and cyclists receive regular awareness training to foster better mutual understanding and reduce road rage incidents.
Lessons from the Digital Age: When Going Viral Backfires
This episode offers a cautionary tale about the double-edged nature of social media. What the cyclists may have intended as a public appeal for justice turned into an unexpected referendum on their own behaviour. The very footage they hoped would support their claims ended up undermining them.
In the age of instant virality, public opinion can be swift and unforgiving. It serves as a reminder that accountability and context matter&mdash;both in how we act on the road and how we represent ourselves online.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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What started as a confrontation ended in full public backlash.

e9a832d9ce3c9b5d3dab0afde90197d49911933d5c2337fda1d5f851426c7908

Cyclists Slammed By Public After Confrontation With RapidKL Bus Driver In Kuala Selangor

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

43fc9ae1d406fd089fa4ebfb2cae7684b7326ba5d24861ea3d77b1ca4f15aa2a

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

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

bb21c848146f6cdaeb044add0d7750dbc1ff0e0af9ef0f49091e14d6e78cd98e

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

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

South Korea also uncovered falsely labelled goods, highlighting the scale of the transhipment schemes.

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