Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

business

technology

China

inspiring

paralysed

startup

determine

Li Xia, 36, from Chongqing in south-western China, has defied extraordinary odds to build a successful smart farming start-up &mdash; despite being paralysed, dependent on a ventilator, and able to move only one finger and one toe.
Li was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at just five years old, a degenerative condition that causes muscles to weaken over time. As his illness progressed, he was forced to leave school in the fifth grade. However, while formal education came to an abrupt end, his desire to learn never faded.
Confined largely to his bed, studying became Li&rsquo;s main connection to the outside world and his greatest source of purpose.
Self-Taught Passion for Science and Technology
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ed320a495bdae21b06a4f0aec18e84bfa73bf5b98ea420038f48a79e203a92e5" />
Li developed a deep interest in physics and computer science, sparked by textbooks brought home by his younger sister. He recalls being captivated by every concept, reading the books repeatedly and eagerly awaiting each new school year to see what new materials she would bring home.
At the age of 25, he began teaching himself programming through online forums and digital resources. Without formal training, Li spent years patiently studying coding, systems theory, and emerging technologies &mdash; building knowledge that would later become life-changing.
Health Crisis and a Turning Point
As Li grew older, his condition worsened dramatically. He first lost the ability to walk, then the ability to care for himself. Eventually, even basic functions such as eating and breathing became difficult. In recent years, he has been able to move only one finger and one toe.
In 2020, Li fell into a coma. Doctors performed a tracheotomy and warned his family that his chances of survival were slim. The period marked one of the darkest moments of his life &mdash; but it also became a turning point.
In early 2021, while recovering, Li came across information about soilless farming techniques. The concept sparked a bold idea: combining Internet of Things (IoT) technology with modern agriculture.
Building a Smart Farm &mdash; One Keystroke at a Time
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/257f4dd7483a9b4c6f9bf505e9954477fcea2f3d219d50f92411d79aefe79675" />
Relying on a ventilator and using a virtual keyboard operated by just one finger and one toe, Li began developing a complete smart control system for farming. The system integrates sensors, automated irrigation, climate monitoring, and hardware controls for soilless cultivation.
Despite his physical limitations, Li designed and programmed the entire system himself, effectively becoming the &ldquo;brain&rdquo; behind the operation. His technology allows crops to be monitored and managed remotely with precision.
Today, the farm produces crops such as cherry tomatoes, lettuce, and herbs &mdash; and has begun turning a steady profit.
A Mother&rsquo;s Devotion Behind the Technology
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/48ded14023b686f97f4668e6f70930815d21f4bd6d934cba07ae02a51c769165" />
Li&rsquo;s success would not have been possible without his mother, Wu Dimei. After Li&rsquo;s parents divorced in 2017, she became his full-time caregiver &mdash; and later, his closest collaborator.
Following her son&rsquo;s detailed instructions, Wu carried out all hands-on tasks. Starting with no technical knowledge whatsoever, she gradually learned to solder control boards, install network wiring, connect circuits, and maintain farming equipment.
Under Li&rsquo;s guidance, she even assembled a remote-controlled, driverless vehicle used to collect farm deliveries.
&ldquo;My mum can do everything now,&rdquo; Li said. &ldquo;Even though she doesn&rsquo;t fully understand the theory, she knows exactly how to connect the wires and install everything correctly.&rdquo;
Together, Li&rsquo;s intellect and his mother&rsquo;s determination transformed their lives into a high-tech success story.
Inspiring Millions Across China
Li&rsquo;s journey has been widely shared by Chinese media and state broadcaster CCTV, touching millions online. Netizens described his story as a &ldquo;miracle&rdquo; and proof that human potential is not defined by physical limitations.
Many also praised Wu Dimei&rsquo;s devotion, with comments highlighting the powerful bond between mother and son and the sacrifices behind their success.
For Li, the technology represents more than profit &mdash; it symbolises independence, dignity, and a way to overcome the constraints imposed by his illness.
Looking Towards the Future
Now that the farm is operating smoothly, Li plans to further diversify his agricultural offerings and experiment with new cultivation technologies. His ambition is to continue improving efficiency while expanding the range of crops produced.
Despite remaining reliant on a ventilator, Li Xia&rsquo;s determination has redefined what is possible. His story stands as a powerful reminder that knowledge, perseverance, and support can turn even the most severe limitations into new beginnings &mdash; proving, as many online have said, that life truly holds limitless possibilities.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media, Netflix &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Reliant on a ventilator, Li Xia defied the odds by turning self-taught tech skills into a successful smart farm.

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Paralysed But Unstoppable: Man Who Can Move Only One Finger And One Toe Builds A Profitable Smart Farm Start-Up

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Cornetto

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AXE MLBB

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BIllie Eilish UMMY

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Coke Fifa

Malaysian households facing higher electricity bills will receive additional relief after the government raised the monthly electricity consumption threshold for subsidy protection from 600 kilowatt-hours (kWh) to 800 kWh.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the temporary measure will apply to electricity consumption from September until 31 December 2026.
Under the expanded protection, domestic consumers using up to 800 kWh per month will be exempt from the Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA), retail charges and Sales and Service Tax (SST).
The move comes after some households reported unusually high electricity bills, with recent hot weather and haze conditions contributing to increased electricity usage.
Electricity Subsidy Protection Increased By 200 kWh
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/fc95581100d39144943df54f35e318dc94c744227caab77b2ce760e43f510e6a" />
Previously, domestic consumers using 600 kWh or less per month were protected from AFA charges, retail charges and the applicable 8% service tax. The new measure increases the threshold by 200 kWh, giving households more room to use electricity before being affected by the charges.
This represents a 33% increase from the previous 600 kWh threshold and could provide some relief to households that have been using more electricity during the recent hot and hazy weather.
Higher temperatures can lead to increased use of air conditioning, fans and other electrical appliances, while haze conditions may encourage people to spend more time indoors.
Anwar said the decision was taken as an immediate measure to address current cost-of-living pressures faced by Malaysians.
Who Qualifies For The Electricity Bill Exemption?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6957dfb9096ff6f93f34b557ca2c0037fb84715699e942753888ad2d46a7df30" />
Under the temporary measure, domestic consumers with monthly electricity consumption of 800 kWh or below will be exempt from:
<ul>
<li>Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA)</li>
<li>Retail charges</li>
<li>Sales and Service Tax (SST)</li>
</ul>
The expanded protection applies to electricity consumption from September through 31 December 2026.
This means households that previously exceeded the 600 kWh threshold but remain within 800 kWh can now receive the same protection from these charges during the temporary period.
The government has not indicated that the 800 kWh threshold will become permanent. For now, the measure is scheduled to run until the end of December.
What Is The Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA)?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9a978849ffe0e40add6c5f8f1e1699143d071e0908a04b41d5e8d78ddd1221c9" />
The Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA) is a monthly mechanism introduced on 1 July 2025 as part of Malaysia's revised electricity tariff structure for Peninsular Malaysia.
It replaced the previous Imbalance Cost Pass-Through (ICPT) mechanism and adjusts electricity charges according to changes in fuel and electricity generation costs, as well as movements in foreign exchange rates.
The mechanism can work in either direction.
When generation costs fall, consumers can receive an AFA rebate. When costs rise, the adjustment can become a surcharge, resulting in higher electricity charges for affected consumers.
AFA rates are reviewed monthly based on the relevant costs.
AFA Has Shifted From Rebates To Surcharges
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0e08f5c6e4182105bde33e2ec024bb73981f40d03bdfb48327dca09abc6ce690" />
The AFA has moved from rebates in late 2025 and early 2026 to surcharges in recent months.
The recorded AFA rates include:
<ul>
<li>October 2025: -6.50 sen/kWh</li>
<li>November 2025: -8.90 sen/kWh</li>
<li>December 2025: -6.42 sen/kWh</li>
<li>January 2026: -4.99 sen/kWh</li>
<li>February 2026: -2.77 sen/kWh</li>
<li>March 2026: -2.15 sen/kWh</li>
<li>April 2026: -0.47 sen/kWh</li>
<li>May 2026: +1.38 sen/kWh</li>
<li>June 2026: +2.59 sen/kWh</li>
<li>July 2026: +3.59 sen/kWh</li>
<li>August 2026: +3.80 sen/kWh</li>
<li>September 2026: +3.67 sen/kWh</li>
</ul>
The September 2026 AFA rate is therefore a 3.67 sen per kWh surcharge.
The increase in generation costs has been linked to fluctuations in global energy markets, including higher fuel costs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting energy supplies.
Why Was The Threshold Increased?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2c7a4dbeec06a5c079a44cc8d379a5e3a9d50f408b073567a60d854fac0fa527" />
The government had previously acknowledged concerns from households whose electricity consumption rose above 600 kWh during the recent period of hot weather and haze.
Crossing the 600 kWh threshold meant these households could become subject to the AFA mechanism, potentially contributing to higher monthly bills.
The latest decision effectively gives households an additional 200 kWh of protected consumption until the end of the year.
Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir also noted that disruptions in global energy supplies could have wider effects beyond petrol, including on natural gas and coal used in electricity generation.
He explained that changes in natural gas prices can take several months to feed through into electricity generation costs and, subsequently, electricity tariffs.
Government To Continue Monitoring Energy Costs
Anwar said the government would continue monitoring global fuel prices and developments in the energy market when considering future electricity tariff decisions.
The government will take into account several factors, including household affordability, the cost of living, electricity supply security and the sustainability of the national energy sector.
He also thanked Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) and the Energy Commission for helping to implement the expanded protection.
The announcement follows a special meeting chaired by Anwar at the Ministry of Finance to discuss the impact of higher electricity bills on households.
For Malaysian households, the immediate takeaway is that the electricity subsidy protection threshold has been raised from 600 kWh to 800 kWh until 31 December 2026. Those using up to 800 kWh a month will be exempt from AFA, retail charges and SST during the temporary period.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Using more electricity lately?  The protection threshold has been raised to 800kWh, with AFA, retail charges and SST exemptions until year-end.

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Electricity Bill Protection Expanded To 800 kWh Until December 2026

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for a special government meeting to examine immediate measures to ease the impact of higher electricity bills, particularly for households whose monthly electricity consumption has exceeded the 600 kilowatt-hours (kWh) threshold.
The meeting will involve the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), the Energy Commission, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF).
The announcement came after Anwar returned from official visits to India and the Maldives, with the Prime Minister saying he had taken note of growing public concerns over higher electricity bills in recent weeks.
&ldquo;I have heard the complaints raised, and this matter needs to be given attention and addressed immediately,&rdquo; Anwar said in a statement on 16 September.
Why Are Some Electricity Bills Higher?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/26f29fbf1213e2a66910686cb58eb73a58c6649bb1a3e78d99331cd86f8f3574" />
According to Anwar, the government&rsquo;s targeted electricity subsidy system continues to protect the majority of domestic consumers.
Around 80% of domestic electricity users consuming no more than 600 kWh per month remain protected from rate increases linked to higher fuel costs this year. However, recent haze conditions and hotter weather have contributed to higher electricity consumption among some households.
As households use more electricity, some may cross the 600 kWh monthly threshold. Once they exceed that level, they become subject to the Automatic Fuel Cost Adjustment (AFA) mechanism, which can result in an additional charge when fuel costs are higher.
This means households that normally remain below the 600 kWh threshold could see higher bills if increased use of air conditioning and other electrical appliances pushes their monthly consumption above the limit.
What Is The Automatic Fuel Cost Adjustment?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/9a978849ffe0e40add6c5f8f1e1699143d071e0908a04b41d5e8d78ddd1221c9" />
The AFA is a mechanism used to adjust electricity charges based on changes in fuel costs and foreign exchange rates.
TNB has explained that the mechanism works both ways. When fuel costs are lower, consumers can receive a rebate, while higher fuel costs can result in a surcharge. Consumers received AFA rebates for nine consecutive months from August 2025 to April 2026. However, a surcharge has been imposed since May 2026 following an increase in global fuel costs.
For September 2026, the AFA surcharge stands at 3.67 sen per kWh.
TNB has also said that, since the AFA was introduced, consumers have received around RM3.1 billion in rebates, compared with approximately RM800 million in surcharges.
Households Using 600 kWh Or Less Remain Protected
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e7144f60cf55fddc092c8db6e3ada03de4ae03eae784ff5ab53eaaf8c9713f56" />
The 600 kWh threshold is therefore an important figure for households trying to understand recent changes to their electricity bills.
Consumers using 600 kWh or less per month are exempt from AFA charges, whether the mechanism is applying a rebate or a surcharge. They are also exempt from the applicable retail charge and eight per cent service tax under the current arrangement.
TNB has previously stated that consumers in this category pay around 2% to 14% less under the new tariff compared with the previous tariff, depending on their level of electricity consumption. However, once monthly usage exceeds 600 kWh, the household is no longer protected from the AFA mechanism and may be affected by the applicable surcharge.
Government To Consider Immediate Relief Measures
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6b1247d984644d16527f014e03e03d6e0c61381f78bfde39871dc1287fac6a26" />
The special meeting is expected to focus on possible measures to reduce the impact of higher electricity bills on affected households.
The involvement of PETRA, the Energy Commission, TNB and MOF brings together the main agencies responsible for the country's electricity supply, regulation and financial policies. At this stage, the government has not announced a specific form of assistance or relief.
It remains unclear whether any measures will involve changes to the 600 kWh threshold, rebates, adjustments to the AFA mechanism or other forms of assistance for affected households.
The meeting will instead examine what immediate mitigation measures may be appropriate.
Anwar Says Targeted Subsidies Will Continue
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ee6e5714f3dc1d13db6e5272d60db3da5b6711fcde60ffcd79352e9cd25fe03b" />
Anwar reiterated that the government intends to maintain its targeted subsidy approach, which is designed to protect the majority of domestic consumers while ensuring electricity subsidies are directed towards those who need them.
He also said the government would continue to ensure that targeted subsidy measures are implemented fairly and reasonably, with the interests and wellbeing of Malaysians remaining a priority.
For households facing higher TNB electricity bills, the key figure to watch remains the 600 kWh monthly threshold.
While households using 600 kWh or less continue to be protected from AFA charges, those exceeding the threshold may face additional costs when the AFA rate is set as a surcharge.
With hotter weather and haze contributing to increased electricity use, the government&rsquo;s special meeting is expected to provide further clarity on whether any immediate relief will be introduced for affected households.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Higher electricity bills have raised concerns among Malaysians, prompting Anwar to call a special meeting to discuss immediate relief measures.

0c833de6cdfe4c2d19b41e50304559c5d5a483b032d80a5aa2ebf6a248d9de13

Anwar Calls Special Meeting To Address Higher Electricity Bills Amid Heat And Haze

A train delay of several hours at KTM Labu Station on 15 September 2026 reportedly led to a heated confrontation between passengers and a contractor staff member, after an elderly woman allegedly received a rude response when asking about the next train.
The incident, which reportedly took place between 10.15pm and 10.45pm, was later shared on social media, where footage of the altercation drew attention from members of the public.
Passengers Reportedly Waited for Hours
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/a25cc583ba426eddcea268c45293433a58530711e38092a24ec018d62b90a6e2" />
According to social media posts from passengers who were at the station, the train service was reportedly delayed by as much as four to five hours, leaving passengers waiting for extended periods.
One passenger claimed they had already been waiting for around two hours when the incident took place. Amid the delay, an elderly woman reportedly approached a staff member to ask when the next train would arrive.
According to the account shared by <a href="https://www.threads.com/@eyqathepisang/post/DdT_d9qH3OZ/i-cant-believe-how-rude-ktm-workers-are-kena-sidai-jam-and-one-elderly-lady/">@eyqathepisang</a>, the staff member allegedly responded:
&ldquo;Akak tanyalah orang depan tu, saya tak tahu. Lepas ni naik kereta lah, jangan naik tren.&rdquo;
The response reportedly upset another passenger, who confronted the staff member and questioned why he was speaking rudely to an elderly woman.
Argument Escalates Into Physical Altercation
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What began as a verbal confrontation reportedly escalated into a physical fight between the male passenger and the staff member.
Several people at the station were seen attempting to intervene and separate the two men as the situation became increasingly tense. Social media accounts claimed that the staff member was punched during the altercation, resulting in a bleeding nose.
One passenger also alleged that the contractor staff member was the first to initiate the physical confrontation, although the circumstances surrounding the altercation have not been independently verified.
A social media post also praised an Indian passenger who stepped in to defend the elderly woman and questioned the staff member's treatment of her.
Staff Member Was Not a KTMB Employee
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/6136fd10c43f6a7cedd689928a1ad66c3ec67e44ee13567a9b134b9840153011" />
Following the incident, it was clarified that the individual involved was not a direct employee of Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB).
The staff member was reportedly from Dhaya Maju Infrastructure (Asia) Sdn Bhd (DMIA), a contractor involved in railway infrastructure services.
KTMB responded to complaints about the incident on social media, stating that it had taken note of the matter and would forward the complaint to the relevant department for further investigation.
Passenger Also Shares Elderly Woman's Story
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Beyond the altercation, one passenger who was at the station shared another detail about the elderly woman involved in the incident.
According to the post, the passenger had spoken with the woman while waiting for the delayed train and noticed that she was using a walking stick.
The woman reportedly said she had previously fallen at KTM Seremban Station due to a sandy surface, resulting in a broken leg. She was also described as someone who regularly uses KTM services.
The passenger praised the woman for remaining positive despite her circumstances and the lengthy wait at the station.
KTMB Complaint Referred For Investigation
The incident has since drawn discussion online, particularly over how passengers should be treated when seeking information during lengthy train delays.
While the alleged exchange between the elderly passenger and the contractor staff member has been widely shared, the full circumstances leading to the physical confrontation remain unclear.
KTMB has acknowledged the complaint and said it would be referred to the relevant department for further investigation.
The incident comes amid broader frustration among passengers over prolonged train delays and the lack of timely information during service disruptions.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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A lengthy KTM delay reportedly led to a heated confrontation after an elderly passenger asked about the next train.

475cd285302b5f17bfdeb824a797023afd47643fa3b1c345bdc7f47144f729b6

KTM Labu Train Delay Sparks A Fight between Rude KTM Staff and Hero Passenger After

After more than two decades, Malaysia is getting a new generation of its national identity card.
The National Registration Department (JPN) has unveiled the MyKad Generasi Baharu, featuring a redesigned appearance, upgraded chip technology and 53 security features, up from 23 on the existing version.
The new MyKad officially begins its phased rollout on 17 September 2026, but Malaysians do not need to rush to replace their existing cards.
Here&rsquo;s everything you need to know about the new MyKad, including its new features, Touch &rsquo;n Go changes, application process and whether your current card is still valid.
What&rsquo;s new about the MyKad design?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7f9aba38e1d4f23261e70dc9547ba2bc9287ecf9d2cd87119f4b5bcc1023c232" />
The new MyKad retains its familiar blue colour scheme but comes with a noticeably different layout.
The Malaysian flag is now positioned at the upper left, while the cardholder&rsquo;s main photograph has also been moved to the left. A smaller secondary portrait, known as a Ghost Image, is included as an additional security feature.
The physical chip has been moved to the back of the card, which also features a QR code intended for verification and enforcement purposes.
JPN says the redesigned card is made from high-durability polycarbonate, designed to better withstand bending, cracking and everyday wear.
New MyKad has 53 security features
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bde3c82fb42993aa7bd7b58ffd212168056f94ca2d0007b791ae12fd30787897" />
One of the biggest upgrades is the increase in security features from 23 to 53.
These include a Dynamic Security Hologram, ultraviolet (UV) security elements, microtext, Guilloche patterns, laser engraving, rainbow printing and a transparent window.
Personal details and the cardholder&rsquo;s photograph are laser-engraved into the card&rsquo;s core layers. This makes it considerably more difficult to alter or remove the information without damaging the card.
The smaller Ghost Image provides another layer of protection against attempts to manipulate or replace the cardholder&rsquo;s photograph.
The new MyKad also uses intricate Guilloche patterns and UV elements that can help with authentication and make counterfeiting more difficult.
New MyKad supports NFC, but not Touch &rsquo;n Go
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/7343c9d7e49918ebd47d841bd84f4533e535a333e25313cabaceebd537e37ac8" />
The upgraded MyKad comes with a dual-interface chip, allowing it to work with both conventional contact-based readers and contactless NFC technology.
However, the introduction of contactless technology does not mean the new MyKad can continue to function as a Touch &rsquo;n Go card. JPN has confirmed that Touch &rsquo;n Go functionality has been removed from the new MyKad.
Those who use Touch &rsquo;n Go for tolls, parking, public transport or other supported services will need to use a separate Touch &rsquo;n Go card or Touch &rsquo;n Go eWallet instead.
Existing MyKad holders should also note that Touch &rsquo;n Go functionality on older cards has its own validity period.
Do Malaysians need to replace their current MyKad?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ba12a201be38557dd59fcf4d3403ad519940b20ed234ca4bd4d4aa560461f136" />
Short answer: no.
JPN and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail have advised Malaysians not to rush to JPN offices when the new MyKad becomes available.
Existing MyKad cards will remain valid and can continue to be used for daily transactions as long as they are in good condition and functioning normally.
The new version will instead be introduced gradually as Malaysians apply for new cards or need to replace their existing ones.
However, holders of older identification cards, including Kad Pengenalan Plastik (KPP), Kad Pengenalan Bermutu Tinggi (KPT) and MyKad without a Ghost Image, will need to switch to the new generation MyKad.
The phased rollout is also intended to prevent congestion at JPN counters. There are currently around 24 million MyKad cards in circulation, while JPN processes roughly 180,000 to 200,000 applications and replacements each month.
Where can you get the new MyKad?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ffc30617c6470ba1f9e0580ce8000af42bd0ee1142a7bd5ec6fc90bddd89c601" />
From 17 September, 40 selected JPN branches and UTC locations equipped with printing facilities will be able to produce the new MyKad on the same day.
These include locations in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor, Penang, Perak, Kedah, Perlis, Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.
Among the locations are JPN Petaling Jaya, JPN Putrajaya, JPN Kuala Lumpur, UTC Selangor, UTC Kuala Lumpur, JPN Johor, JPN Penang, JPN Sabah and JPN Sarawak.
For branches without on-site printing facilities, applications can still be made, but processing and collection will take around five working days.
Will your MyKad number or SARA balance change?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e2e28280c9d15d132e533dd093d84ad1714dfe984000f5bcb01581a3cf78e4a6" />
No. Getting the new MyKad will not change your existing 12-digit identification number. Your personal information will continue to be based on JPN&rsquo;s official records.
For Malaysians receiving Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) or other government assistance linked to their MyKad, replacing the physical card will also not erase existing balances or affect eligibility. The relevant information is maintained in the respective government systems, with the MyKad used to verify the recipient&rsquo;s identity.
JPN has also said the new MyKad will continue to support government and other services that require MyKad verification, including transactions involving banks and government programmes.
How much does the new MyKad cost?
Replacing your existing MyKad is not necessarily free.
The applicable fee depends on the type of application and JPN&rsquo;s current rates. Malaysians should therefore not assume they can exchange a perfectly functioning MyKad for the new version at no cost.
JPN has also encouraged those who need to replace their MyKad to make an appointment beforehand where applicable.
For now, if your current MyKad is still working properly, there is no need to rush to replace it. The MyKad Generasi Baharu will gradually become the standard version as new cards are issued and older cards are eventually phased out.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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The new MyKad is here! But your current IC can still be used as usual.

7e2335e29e45b6bb92f14bbb4f5ca58e58f24ad3c42ddd7322b040baedff0996

New MyKad 2026: New Design, 53 Security Features, NFC and Touch ’n Go Changes Explained

A final-year engineering project from Monash University Malaysia has turned into an award-winning invention after 24-year-old Hayley Nea Iaduray was named Malaysia&rsquo;s National Winner of the James Dyson Award 2026.
Her invention, ZeMor, is a tuneable, battery-free wearable designed to help reduce hand tremors associated with Parkinson&rsquo;s disease. What makes it particularly interesting is where the idea came from: a system commonly used to stabilise some of the world&rsquo;s tallest buildings has been miniaturised into a wearable device for the human hand.
As Malaysia&rsquo;s national winner, Iaduray will receive RM27,160 from the James Dyson Foundation and advance to the international stage of the competition. The James Dyson Award is an international engineering and design competition that challenges students and recent graduates to create solutions to real-world problems.
From Final Year Project To Award-Winning Invention
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/31a75f989e9bca245003fc19fb09cd4f0a7ef25d5bd81551d4486f602b759a15" />
ZeMor, short for &ldquo;Zero Tremor&rdquo;, was initially developed as Iaduray&rsquo;s Final Year Project.
The Subang Jaya native said her interest in engineering began from a young age, including spending time playing with LEGO during secondary school. Her approach to ZeMor was also influenced by an online video showing someone building a wheelchair for a paralysed pet, which encouraged her to look at how relatively simple engineering could be used to solve practical problems.
Rather than relying heavily on electronics and sensors, Iaduray wanted to explore a more straightforward physical solution.
That led her to one of the most interesting aspects of ZeMor: its use of a Tuned Mass Damper, or TMD.
A Skyscraper Technology Shrunk Down For Parkinson&rsquo;s Care
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3cabd0347e8f9ad5c0dfaf0bfc1e63007ed55d08a4c4b8ec6ad56474a089feb9" />
Tuned Mass Dampers are large mechanical systems used in structures to reduce movement caused by forces such as strong winds and earthquakes. One famous example can be found in Taipei 101, where a massive tuned mass damper helps stabilise the skyscraper.
ZeMor applies the same basic engineering principle on a much smaller scale.
When a hand tremor occurs, an internal weighted mechanism moves in response, helping to absorb and dissipate kinetic energy. Because the system relies on mechanical movement rather than electronics, ZeMor does not require batteries or electrical power.
Another key feature is its ability to be adjusted.
Unlike passive tremor devices that use a fixed mass, ZeMor can be tuned to different tremor frequencies by adding or removing weights. The prototype uses relatively accessible components including slotted weights, steel ball bearings, spring-based dampeners and a 3D-printed housing.
Iaduray spent around a year developing and refining multiple prototypes, testing the concept with a custom-built rig designed to simulate Parkinsonian tremors.
Why ZeMor Could Matter For Parkinson&rsquo;s Patients
&nbsp;<img src="https://media.tenor.com/-UrD8zExORAAAAAM/tremor-hands.gif" />
Parkinson&rsquo;s disease is a progressive neurological condition that can significantly affect a person&rsquo;s ability to carry out everyday activities.
Hand tremors are among its most recognisable symptoms and can make tasks such as eating, writing, dressing and holding objects increasingly difficult.
The World Health Organization has identified Parkinson&rsquo;s as one of the world&rsquo;s fastest-growing neurological disorders, while research suggests the global number of people living with the condition could reach 25.2 million by 2050. In Malaysia, an estimated 20,000 people are living with Parkinson&rsquo;s, with prevalence expected to rise substantially as the population ages.
Existing treatments can include medication, surgery such as deep brain stimulation and rehabilitation therapies. However, accessibility, cost and long-term sustainability can remain challenges for some patients.
That is where Iaduray hopes a simpler, battery-free approach like ZeMor could eventually make a difference.
&ldquo;What excites me most is the possibility that a relatively simple piece of engineering could help people regain confidence in everyday tasks that many of us take for granted,&rdquo; she said.
What&rsquo;s Next For ZeMor?
Winning the Malaysia National Winner title is only the beginning for Iaduray.
Her next goal is to improve ZeMor from its current single-axis prototype into a multi-directional system, allowing it to respond to tremors coming from different angles and potentially provide greater stability.
She also plans to work with medical professionals and research partners to evaluate the device with people living with Parkinson&rsquo;s disease.
James Dyson Award Malaysia judge and Dyson Head of Design Engineering Pae Yusof praised ZeMor for applying a familiar engineering principle to a very different real-world challenge, while highlighting the rigour, testing and persistence involved in developing the prototype.
Two Other Malaysian Inventions Also Advance
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b4eed50a77e529173d65337261ecd8038b0fb6562621c0e80e90efcd7b77360c" />
ZeMor was not the only Malaysian invention to stand out this year.
Two projects were named national runners-up and will also advance to the next stage.
S.L.I.C. (Solar Liquid Integration for Communities), developed by a team from the University of Nottingham Malaysia, is a portable solar-powered water purification system designed for communities with limited access to clean water and electricity. The suitcase-sized system combines filtration, UV sterilisation, water heating and cooling, and real-time water-quality monitoring.
The second runner-up, Pillay, was developed by students from Asia Pacific University. Designed in the shape of a friendly penguin, the contactless health-screening device uses optical, thermal and acoustic sensing to measure children's heart rate, breathing, fever and cough patterns without requiring physical contact.
What Happens Next?
ZeMor, S.L.I.C. and Pillay will now advance to the international stage of the James Dyson Award 2026, where they will compete alongside national winners from other countries and regions.
The international Top 20 shortlist will be announced on 14 October, before the international winners are selected by Sir James Dyson and announced on 4 November 2026. The international winner and sustainability winner each have the opportunity to receive RM162,999 under the Malaysian award listing.
For Iaduray, however, the biggest achievement may already be seeing a university project evolve into something with the potential to address a genuine everyday problem.
From a Final Year Project to a national engineering award, ZeMor shows how a simple idea &mdash; inspired by the mechanics of a skyscraper &mdash; can be reimagined into something much smaller, more accessible and potentially meaningful for people living with Parkinson&rsquo;s.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
FOMO much? Follow our&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.facebook.com/mycclub/">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a style="color: #ff0000;" href="https://www.instagram.com/myc_news/?hl=en">Instagram</a>&nbsp;for more updates.

What do skyscrapers and Parkinson’s tremors have in common? Hayley turned the same engineering principle into a wearable device.

Paralysed But Unstoppable: Man Who Can Move Only One Finger And One Toe Builds A Profitable Smart Farm Start-Up

Reliant on a ventilator, Li Xia defied the odds by turning self-taught tech skills into a successful smart farm.

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