Nabil Luqman

0f9d2dd4f71434084e2b6094de1865e23abb37bb9f28ca51feeabee679ec9be2

Social

controversy

backlash

privacy

criticism

removed

image generation

Muse AI

Meta has removed one of the key features of its newly launched Muse Image AI tool just days after its debut, following widespread criticism over privacy, consent and the use of public Instagram content.
The company confirmed that the feature, which allowed users to generate AI images by referencing public Instagram accounts, is no longer available after admitting it "missed the mark". The decision follows backlash from users, creators and industry groups who argued that the feature relied on an opt-out system rather than obtaining explicit permission.
The swift reversal marks one of Meta's fastest product rollbacks in recent years and highlights the growing debate over how artificial intelligence should use publicly available online content.
What Is Muse Image AI?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/4d25a0cec7b913239c04b31fc2b556002d84a7d9d10d6b73d9cee310b864285f" />
Muse Image is Meta's first image-generation model developed by Meta Superintelligence Labs. It allows users to create and edit images using text prompts, uploaded photos and sketches through Meta AI.
The technology also powers more than 30 AI effects for Instagram Stories and is integrated into Meta AI on WhatsApp, with plans to expand to other Meta platforms.
Every image generated by Muse Image includes Meta's Content Seal watermark, which is designed to remain attached even after editing or cropping.
The feature that sparked controversy allowed users to generate AI images by simply mentioning public Instagram accounts in their prompts. The AI would then use publicly available images from those accounts as visual references when creating new content.
Why Did It Face Backlash?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b2682ad94e06ba2d67eb8a044283a61000cbeef555f34c3bd572fa5374954eec" />
The criticism centred on the fact that public Instagram accounts belonging to users aged 18 and above were automatically included in the feature by default.
Rather than asking users to opt in, Meta required those who did not want their public photos referenced by AI to manually disable the setting or make their accounts private.
Many users argued that publicly sharing photos does not automatically mean they should be available for AI-generated content. Others were concerned that Instagram users would not be notified if their images had been used as references for someone else's AI creations.
The feature also reignited broader discussions surrounding consent, digital likenesses and the ethical use of publicly available content by AI systems.
Entertainment Industry Raises Concerns
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/c0d297576752950aadd859e6b4691268577744e2a7467352fad980b9b5e8dfeb" />
The backlash quickly spread throughout the entertainment industry.
Emmy-winning actress Hannah Einbinder, known for Hacks, criticised the feature after discovering it had been enabled automatically on her account and encouraged others to switch it off.
The criticism was echoed by SAG-AFTRA, the union representing actors and media professionals, which urged Instagram users to opt out and argued that anything other than a clear opt-in system was unacceptable.
The union warned that AI-generated digital replicas remain a growing concern and said users should have complete control over how their likenesses are used.
Meanwhile, talent agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA) said names, images, voices and creative work should never be used by AI systems without clear, documented consent. The agency also called for stronger safeguards that would allow creators to monitor and restrict how their content is used.
After Meta removed the feature, both SAG-AFTRA and CAA welcomed the decision, describing it as the responsible course of action.
Meta Reverses Course
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/213810264761e54e1efc1f8e62afa74daa51b71dd369617f0e7b6dcf3a65b654" />
Muse Image was introduced alongside Muse Video as part of Meta's latest AI rollout. However, the controversial Instagram referencing function lasted only three days before being withdrawn.
In a statement, Meta said its goal had been to provide a useful creative tool while allowing users to control whether their public content could be referenced.
"Our intent was to provide a useful creative tool and to give people control over whether their public content could be referenced in this way," the company said.
"We've heard the feedback that this feature missed the mark, so it's no longer available."
Before removing the feature, Meta maintained that Muse Image had been launched with safety controls, including automatically excluding private accounts and users under 18. However, those safeguards failed to ease concerns over the default opt-out approach.
Privacy Debate Far From Over
The controversy surrounding Muse Image reflects the wider challenges facing AI companies as generative AI becomes increasingly sophisticated.
While AI tools continue to unlock new creative possibilities, they have also raised concerns over consent, copyright, digital identity and the use of people's images without permission.
Although Muse Image's broader image-generation capabilities remain available, Meta's decision to remove its Instagram referencing feature suggests that users expect stronger privacy protections and greater transparency over how their publicly shared content is used.
The incident also serves as another reminder that as AI technology evolves, balancing innovation with user trust and consent will remain one of the industry's biggest challenges.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Users and creators pushed back, and Meta took action. The Muse AI image feature is officially gone — at least for now.

d60d5e1b8d07cb95319c02ee26c98984d21c34776742a836552ec8efdaecfb73

Meta Removes Controversial Muse AI Image Feature Just Days After Launch Following Privacy Backlash

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South Korea&rsquo;s popular holiday island of Jeju is facing growing scrutiny after four people who had previously been reported missing were found dead within just three days.
The discoveries have come amid a widening police scandal involving an officer who is accused of improperly closing missing-person cases without properly confirming the whereabouts or safety of those reported missing.
The situation has sparked public anger and renewed questions about how missing-person cases are handled in South Korea, with President Lee Jae Myung now calling for greater police accountability and reform.
Missing Woman Found 104 Days After Disappearance
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/81351da38e610a03074a9b2b383ff4ec2180e7e0edd51ecbf29cd2725ec23a21" />
One of the cases at the centre of the controversy involves 37-year-old Jang Mi-ran, who was reported missing in May.
Her case was allegedly closed by a police officer identified by the surname Bu, who reportedly told her family that he had contacted Jang and that she did not want her whereabouts disclosed.
Investigators later found no records supporting the officer's claim that he had spoken to her.
Jang's body was eventually discovered on 24 August, around 104 days after she disappeared, at a palm tree farm in Hallim-eup. The location was reportedly only around 400 metres from the accommodation where she had been staying.
Her remains were badly decomposed, meaning police were unable to identify her visually. Personal belongings, including a mobile phone and bracelet, as well as clothing believed to match what she was last wearing, helped investigators establish a preliminary identification.
An autopsy and forensic examinations are being carried out to confirm her identity and determine the cause and time of death.
Another Missing Man Also Found Dead
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e0da2e2c53df48ca2fa4374ede6898f5a2276d2d89a55d8823d57d24820a8384" />
The same officer is also accused of improperly closing the missing-person case of a man in his 60s.
The man was reported missing in July, with his family later saying police had told them he was safe but did not wish to reveal his location. According to local reports, his family trusted the police's explanation and waited for him to return.
Instead, his body was found on 22 August, more than 50 days after he was reported missing. His family had filed another missing-person report after learning about Jang's case, prompting authorities to restart the search.
The man's son later expressed his frustration, saying the family had believed the police when they were told that his father was safe.
Two More Bodies Discovered On Jeju
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8badcad7d917e247ee4acb87875451679d8108f59721d78065a25fed6b313d60" />
Two other people reported missing were also found dead during the same period.
A person who had been reported missing was found near a valley in Aewol-eup on 24 August, while another man believed to be in his 70s was discovered in waters near Sinheung-ri the previous day.
The circumstances surrounding all four deaths remain under investigation.
Importantly, authorities have not linked the four deaths to one another, and there is currently no confirmed evidence that a serial killer or organised criminal group is operating on Jeju.
However, the unusual concentration of deaths, combined with the allegations against the police officer, has fuelled speculation and public anxiety online.
Officer Bu Accused Of Mishandling Hundreds Of Cases
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5fd4f4cf3dd003666171f5c9ec9b6bd3fd104782bba61968caa7f563683ef1a9" />
Police are now reviewing 298 missing-person cases handled by Bu during roughly 17 months on Jeju.
He is accused of falsely claiming to have contacted missing individuals before closing their cases and removing them from the police missing-person profiling system.
Bu has denied the allegations, maintaining that he had contacted the two missing people whose cases are at the centre of the current investigation.
However, police said they have so far been unable to find records showing that those conversations took place.
He is facing allegations including dereliction of duty, falsifying and using official electronic records, and obstructing official duties by deception.
Four senior officers at Jeju Seobu Police Station have also been removed from their duties pending an internal investigation into whether there were failures in supervision and command.
South Korea Begins Wider Review
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/00cc15a9b997b7725363216d28f8efe9a5a94387e0c85a96c063559902af25e7" />
The controversy has now grown beyond Jeju.
South Korean authorities are reviewing whether similar problems may have occurred elsewhere, with police agencies in Seoul and Busan also examining previously closed missing-person reports.
The scrutiny comes as South Korea records tens of thousands of missing-person reports every year. Official figures show that more than 70,000 adults were reported missing in 2025, with the vast majority resolved within a month.
Experts have suggested that the high rate of quickly resolved cases may contribute to officers becoming less cautious when dealing with missing adults.
President Lee Calls For Police Reform
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b97470f89d08f4c98d0f9a2ac3ce22639869f4b7146fe89a675abd12d4ce12bd" />
The scandal has reached the country's highest levels, with President Lee Jae Myung calling for stronger accountability within the police force.
He said the recent breakdown in police discipline and failures in public safety had become serious concerns, particularly as police are expected to take on greater investigative responsibilities following reforms to South Korea's criminal justice system.
The National Police Agency has since apologised over the handling of the cases and said it would strengthen safeguards for closing missing-person reports.
One proposed change would require senior officers to review the evidence and reasons for closing a case before it can officially be marked as resolved.
Jeju's Reputation Faces A New Challenge
Jeju is one of South Korea's most popular tourist destinations, known for its beaches, volcanic landscapes and quiet countryside.
The recent deaths, however, have prompted anxiety among some residents and tourists, with reports of people reconsidering or cancelling trips after the cases spread widely online.
While there is no evidence at present that Jeju is experiencing a wider wave of violent crime, the police scandal has nevertheless raised serious questions about public safety and the handling of vulnerable people.
For now, investigators are focused on determining how the four people died and whether further missing-person cases were mishandled.
With 298 cases under review, the full extent of the Jeju police scandal may take some time to emerge.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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President Lee Jae Myung has ordered police reforms as a missing-person scandal unfolds on South Korea’s Jeju Island.

9037bfa9ffa6408b67c2777daf42b5ea935b48a8f1c0a8e0f98ae21dbc0fa1ad

Four Missing People Found Dead In 3 Days As Jeju Police Face Missing-Person Scandal

Apple has officially confirmed the date for its next major iPhone launch event, and for Malaysian viewers, the event will take place on 10 September 2026 due to the time difference.
The event will be held at Apple Park in Cupertino, California, but Malaysians can tune in at 1am on Thursday, 10 September.
This year's event is also expected to be significant as it will be the first major iPhone launch led by John Ternus, who is set to become Apple&rsquo;s CEO on 1 September, with Tim Cook moving into the role of executive chairman.
Apple is teasing the event with the tagline &ldquo;Surprise and Shine&rdquo;, although the company has yet to reveal exactly which products will make their debut.
iPhone 18 Pro And Pro Max Expected
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8b9b3d21bc2c9a7b4e5074af90d5a6cde8e803f86939ee4d0200f0c342d5c14f" />
As with previous September events, the latest iPhone models are expected to be the main attraction.
Apple is widely expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, with reports pointing towards improvements to performance, battery life and camera capabilities.
Rather than introducing a completely new design, the Pro models are expected to bring a number of refinements to the current generation. One reported change is a smaller Dynamic Island, which could give users more usable screen space.
New colour options are also rumoured, with Dark Cherry reportedly being considered as one of the headline finishes for the iPhone 18 Pro series.
As always, these specifications, colours and design changes remain rumours until Apple officially announces them.
The Foldable iPhone Could Steal The Show
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/edef0634203a0d6787e3cfbdeb3e01f64f3286af62db8e1ea9e1449a6626783f" />
The biggest announcement could be Apple's long-rumoured first foldable iPhone.
The device has been referred to as the iPhone Ultra, iPhone Fold and iPhone Duo in various reports, although its official name remains unknown. Apple is expected to use a book-style foldable design, allowing the phone to open into a much larger display that could offer an experience closer to a small iPad.
Reports have suggested an outer display of around 5.5 inches and an inner screen of approximately 7.8 inches. The device could also be extremely thin when unfolded. Should it launch, the foldable iPhone would represent Apple's most significant change to the iPhone form factor since the introduction of the iPhone X in 2017.
It would also see Apple entering a foldable smartphone market that Samsung and several Chinese manufacturers have already established.
Malaysia Could Be Among The First Markets
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/caa768d4698445daf3d771ab8c30f8e7b46a90cf19567e0ff7ec38e91d47bf1f" />
For Malaysian Apple fans, the good news is that the wait may not be particularly long after the announcement.
Apple has historically included Malaysia among its earlier launch markets for new iPhones. Based on its previous release patterns, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max could potentially be available for pre-order shortly after the event, followed by retail availability the following week.
However, Apple has yet to confirm the Malaysian pre-order or release dates.
The foldable iPhone could have a different launch timeline. Reports suggest Apple may unveil the device in September but release it later or only in selected markets due to production challenges.
Apple Watch And Other Products Could Also Appear
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/8382c44e709f6b54ac72a7ee8e2e433bc91e0671d22ae5f3948a2cbfcc6e0fa4" />
The iPhone is expected to dominate the event, but Apple may also introduce new wearable devices.
Among the products rumoured to be in development are the Apple Watch Series 12 and a new Apple Watch Ultra.
Read: <a href="https://myc.my/articles/5259/apples-camera-equipped-airpods-leak-reveals-how-visual-intelligence-could-work">Apple&rsquo;s Camera-Equipped AirPods Leak Reveals How Visual Intelligence Could Work</a>
There have also been reports of updated AirPods, although Apple's rumoured camera-equipped AirPods are not expected to be ready for this particular event.
Apple is also believed to be working on new home products and other accessories, but some of these could be saved for a separate announcement later this year.
What About The Standard iPhone 18?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3cdb595a8244051fc8a6cdc8ee33809fef524fedd9e4823f4b4448eee7cccc22" />
Apple could also be changing its traditional iPhone launch strategy.
Reports suggest the standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and a new-generation iPhone Air may not arrive until 2027, rather than launching alongside the Pro models. A staggered release would allow Apple to place greater emphasis on its premium iPhones during the September event while creating another major sales period later in the year.
Apple has not officially confirmed this release strategy.
Apple Intelligence Could Be A Major Focus
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/b0381b02119fcc88379abdb51521d638efa0e9214320010c276afbd34ce048e1" />
Beyond hardware, Apple Intelligence and the next generation of Siri are expected to feature prominently.
Apple has been working on making Siri more capable of understanding context, working across applications and handling more complex requests.
The upcoming iPhone models could therefore play an important role in Apple's wider AI strategy, particularly as the company continues trying to catch up with competitors in the artificial intelligence space.
When Can Malaysians Watch The Event?
For viewers in Malaysia, Apple's event will begin at 1am on Thursday, 10 September 2026.
The keynote will be streamed through Apple's official website and YouTube channel, meaning Malaysians can watch the announcements live from home.
With a new CEO, the iPhone 18 Pro series and potentially Apple's first foldable iPhone all expected to take centre stage, 10 September could be one of Apple's biggest iPhone launch days in years.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Apple is gearing up to unveil its next iPhones, with a foldable model potentially stealing the spotlight.

423b6b8dcf284fa7eb0078560b05184219904d6343f449ea8aae734d7e795097

Apple Confirms iPhone Launch Event For 10 September — Here’s What Malaysians Can Expect

TNG eWallet users now have another option when it comes to accessing financing, following a new partnership between TNG Digital and GXBank.
Through the integration, eligible users can now apply for GXBank FlexiCredit directly through the CashLoan feature in the TNG eWallet app, without having to open a separate GXBank bank account.
The move expands TNG eWallet&rsquo;s growing financial services ecosystem, giving its more than 27 million verified users access to another form of regulated financing through an app many already use for their daily transactions.
What Is GXBank FlexiCredit?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/92d93520ecc80fe04982ad00ae51835720ae6a4d0f62dc20cdee7fe6d75444e4" />
Unlike a conventional personal loan that gives you a fixed lump sum, FlexiCredit works as a revolving line of credit.
Once approved, users receive a credit limit of up to RM150,000, which they can draw from whenever they need it. Instead of borrowing the entire amount upfront, users only take out the money they require.
As the amount borrowed is repaid, the available credit limit is replenished, meaning users can access the remaining facility again without submitting a new application. GXBank says there are also no annual or processing fees, while interest is only charged on the amount actually drawn down.
Repayment periods range from six to 60 months, with flat interest rates starting from 3.78% per annum, equivalent to an effective interest rate of 6.45% per annum.
Apply Without Opening A New Bank Account
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/876a223f059ee8f8e3b6533bf53769016e60dc3fb77b3174590361e7e7f6512e" />
One of the main benefits of the new TNG eWallet integration is that eligible users do not need to open a separate GXBank account to apply.
The application can be completed through GOFinance &gt; CashLoan within the TNG eWallet app.
Users can select their preferred credit limit and repayment tenure, provide their income information and complete the required identity verification. Depending on their employment status, supporting documents such as an EPF statement or bank statement may also be required.
TNG Digital and GXBank said the integration is aimed at making regulated financing more accessible, particularly for Malaysians who may have limited credit history or find traditional banking processes more difficult to navigate.
Who Can Apply For FlexiCredit?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ee07f0996c5f45fbe73d571754b6048b6eea83f80c91b7474703f3b61b9877d9" />
The facility is available to eligible Malaysian citizens who meet GXBank's requirements.
Applicants need to have a fully verified TNG eWallet account and meet the applicable age and income criteria. The stated minimum gross income is RM1,500 per month, or RM18,000 annually, with both salaried and self-employed individuals able to apply.
However, approval is not guaranteed simply because someone meets the basic requirements.
The financing offer shown through CashLoan is determined based on the applicant's eligibility, requested amount and repayment period, as well as the bank's credit assessment and applicable regulatory requirements.
How To Apply Through TNG eWallet
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/29A9JkvkrFk" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
The application process is designed to be completed digitally.
After opening the TNG eWallet app, users can tap GOFinance, head to CashLoan and select GXBank FlexiCredit.
From there, applicants can choose their desired credit limit and repayment tenure before providing their financial and employment details.
Once submitted, applications can typically be processed within minutes, although the actual approval time may vary depending on the information and documents required.
Approved users can then access their available credit through the CashLoan dashboard and draw down funds when needed.
What Could Malaysians Use It For?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/24e34c656579bf901b537f43fbb8bcb6153a30f6f5e80c23ab5786b6e5661fc0" />
According to GXBank, existing FlexiCredit users are using the facility for purposes including emergencies, managing cash flow and making larger purchases.
Its revolving structure could be useful for people who do not necessarily need a large amount of money at once but want access to an approved credit facility when unexpected expenses arise.
However, as with any form of borrowing, users should consider the interest costs and ensure they are comfortable with the repayment commitments before drawing down funds.
Part Of TNG eWallet's Growing Financial Ecosystem
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/35d58c747003fdd8d6d5a745335d6dd165bee65e679b50709458dc9f430ca6d7" />
The partnership is part of TNG Digital's wider push to turn TNG eWallet into more than just a payments platform.
Its GOFinance hub already brings together various financial services, including investments, insurance, credit and remittance options. By integrating products from financial institutions such as GXBank, TNG Digital is aiming to create a broader financial ecosystem within a platform Malaysians already use regularly.
For GXBank, meanwhile, bringing FlexiCredit directly into TNG eWallet provides another way to reach customers who may prefer managing their finances digitally.
Another Step Into Digital Banking
The new integration means eligible Malaysians can now access up to RM150,000 in revolving credit through TNG eWallet, without needing to separately sign up for a GXBank account.
With flexible repayment periods and the ability to draw funds only when needed, FlexiCredit is positioned as an alternative to traditional lump-sum personal loans.
Still, the key point is that it remains a credit facility, not free cash. Users should carefully consider the interest rate, repayment period and amount they can realistically afford before using it.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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You can now apply for GXBank FlexiCredit via TNG eWallet without opening a separate bank account.

90898026bdd77e006ef8955e492d9611714d5d21749d0e4bc8ec787261c203bb

TNG eWallet Users Can Now Apply For GXBank FlexiCredit Of Up To RM150,000

A devastating flash flood and mudslide struck the Nepal-Tibet border on 26 August 2026, sweeping through villages, roads, bridges and infrastructure and leaving hundreds of people unaccounted for.
Among those reported missing are 17 Malaysians, alongside hundreds of other foreign travellers and Nepali nationals. The disaster has triggered large-scale search and rescue efforts on both sides of the border, while authorities continue to warn of further flooding.
What Happened At The Nepal-Tibet Border?
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
BREAKING: At least 380 people missing after flash flood hits near Nepal-Tibet border <a href="https://t.co/iCRpXJaBAe">pic.twitter.com/iCRpXJaBAe</a>
&mdash; BNO News Live (@BNODesk) <a href="https://x.com/BNODesk/status/2092568283098575057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Parece at&eacute; cena daqueles filmes apocal&iacute;pticos, mas isso aconteceu de verdade hoje na fronteira entre o Tibet e o Nepal. Avalanches de lama atingiram a regi&atilde;o, com as autoridades temendo que milhares de pessoas possam ter sido afetadas. <a href="https://t.co/UIlMffw5Ki">pic.twitter.com/UIlMffw5Ki</a>
&mdash; Hoje no Mundo Militar (@hoje_no) <a href="https://x.com/hoje_no/status/2092572270774378522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The disaster struck the mountainous Rasuwa district in northern Nepal, close to the border with Tibet.
A sudden surge of water, mud and rocks swept into the Bhote Koshi River, devastating areas including Syabrubesi and Timure. Homes, vehicles and bridges were washed away, while roads, communications and electricity infrastructure were severely damaged.
A major border crossing at Gyirong Port on the Tibetan side was also hit by a mudslide, cutting road access as well as communications and power links.
Dramatic footage from the affected areas showed torrents of muddy water carrying vehicles and debris, with bridges and buildings collapsing under the force of the flood.
What Caused The Flash Flood?
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/01afe22a5bc7fbf43803bcbdcdfb245923d9a0e38bddbd8b64bb2e7bc0465865" />
Initial reports suggested that a 4.4-magnitude earthquake may have triggered an avalanche of ice and rock, which then blocked the Lhende Khola river before sending a huge volume of water downstream.
However, further geological analysis has raised questions over whether an earthquake was actually responsible.
The US Geological Survey later said its analysis indicated that the seismic energy detected in the area was instead caused by a glacial collapse and debris flow, rather than an earthquake.
Experts from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development have similarly pointed to a rock-and-ice avalanche in Nepal that may have blocked the river and caused the cascading flood.
The exact sequence of events is still being investigated.
17 Malaysians Among Hundreds Missing
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/ecdebb6d08aa5ea9300ffd90fe3d7bca7a562f9e4c3bc72ab2e28141721683d8" />
The Nepal Tourism Board reported that 384 travellers, including 291 foreign nationals and 93 Nepalis, had been reported missing from the affected areas.
The missing foreigners include 17 Malaysians, more than 100 Indians, 12 Britons, four South Africans, three Americans, an Australian and a Dutch national.
The Malaysian Foreign Ministry said its embassy in Kathmandu was coordinating with local authorities to locate affected Malaysians and establish their safety.
Because roads and communication networks in the region have been heavily damaged, authorities are facing difficulties confirming the whereabouts of those who remain uncontactable.
Families trying to trace Malaysian travellers have been advised to provide relevant passport and travel details to the Malaysian Embassy for coordination with authorities.
Rescue Efforts Hampered By Difficult Conditions
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e5376b98ebdc77d301d5b664d760b456afa0cf282c6eb7f10577608402d6c758" />
Nepal has deployed police, military personnel and rescue teams to the affected areas, but the terrain and weather have made operations extremely difficult.
Rescue helicopters have reportedly struggled to land in some of the worst-hit areas because of high water levels, poor visibility and continuing rain. Authorities are also moving residents living in low-lying and riverside areas to safer locations as they warn that another flood could occur.
The concern comes from a remaining blockage upstream, which experts believe could release another sudden surge of water if it collapses. China has also launched a major rescue operation around Gyirong Port, with hundreds of personnel and emergency vehicles deployed to search for missing people.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for an all-out effort to locate survivors and strengthen monitoring and early warning systems to prevent further disasters.
India And Other Countries Offer Assistance
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e9cef444e32e3c49f398aa5c47eb9ba908ef08d7777ce5aa56bd6126d0b1f1c7" />
The disaster has also prompted support from neighbouring countries.
India is coordinating with Nepal on rescue and relief operations and has deployed aircraft carrying emergency supplies and medical equipment. Helicopters have also been earmarked for rescue and evacuation efforts.
Other countries, including South Korea, have offered assistance as authorities work to account for their citizens in the affected region.
The scale of the disaster has also prompted flood alerts downstream in India's Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, as rivers flowing from the Himalayas continue to rise.
A Region Already Vulnerable To Floods
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/555db7d6abb09567fb03691da5511c73389106b363bc6336d6ce70aebe6a2ac4" />
The Himalayan region regularly experiences floods and landslides during the June to September monsoon season, but experts say the growing threat of extreme weather is adding to the danger.
Scientists have warned that rising temperatures are accelerating glacier melt and contributing to the instability of ice and mountain slopes.
The region has experienced similar disasters before. Last year, flooding along the Bhote Koshi River killed people and destroyed a bridge connecting Nepal and China, disrupting transport and trade.
Rescue Operation Continues
The full scale of the devastation is still emerging, with authorities working to verify the number of missing and dead.
For the families of the 17 Malaysians and hundreds of other missing travellers, the immediate priority remains locating their loved ones.
With roads destroyed, communications disrupted and another possible flood threat hanging over the region, rescue teams in Nepal and Tibet are continuing their efforts under extremely challenging conditions.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Hundreds remain unaccounted for following the deadly flooding, as rescue teams race to reach affected areas.

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Nepal-Tibet Border Flash Flood Leaves Hundreds Missing, Including 17 Malaysians

Marvel fans in Malaysia will soon have another chance to experience Avengers: Endgame on the big screen, with the 2019 Infinity Saga finale returning to cinemas as Avengers: Endgame Encore on 25 September 2026.
The special re-release comes ahead of Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled to arrive in Malaysian cinemas in December. Rather than simply bringing back the original film, Marvel is adding new material intended to connect Endgame with the next Avengers story.
For Malaysian fans, however, there is one important thing to note: ticket sales and exact showtimes have yet to be announced locally. TGV Cinemas currently lists upcoming titles through its platform, but Avengers: Endgame Encore ticketing has not been made available yet, so fans will have to wait for local cinema announcements.
What Is Different About Avengers: Endgame Encore?
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For anyone who somehow needs a reminder, Avengers: Endgame brought the Infinity Saga to its emotional conclusion after Thanos wiped out half of all life in the universe.
The surviving Avengers eventually reunited for one final mission, travelling through the past to recover the Infinity Stones before facing Thanos in the film's massive final battle. The Encore version will largely remain the same film fans watched in 2019, but it reportedly has a 185-minute runtime, around four minutes longer than the original theatrical cut.
Those additional minutes are the interesting part.
Marvel has confirmed that the re-release will include an exclusive look at Avengers: Doomsday, with an additional sneak peek for audiences watching on IMAX and Disney's Infinity Vision-certified screens.
The New Footage Is Expected To Connect To Doomsday
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Director Joe Russo has previously indicated that the new material is intended to create a bridge between Endgame and Doomsday.
That means fans probably should not expect an extended version of Tony Stark's funeral or a collection of random deleted scenes from 2019. Instead, the biggest reason to watch Endgame Encore could be what happens after the original story finishes.
Marvel has not revealed exactly what the new footage will show, so anything beyond the confirmed Doomsday preview remains speculation. One obvious possibility is a post-credits sequence or additional scene following the conclusion of Endgame. The original film famously did not have a traditional post-credits scene because Marvel wanted it to feel like the definitive ending to the Infinity Saga.
With Doomsday now around the corner, an added scene at the end would make sense as a way of setting up the next chapter.
Could Robert Downey Jr.&rsquo;s Doctor Doom Be In It?
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/698a014f524c2dfa222e2c31895cca3ac9a29adcd085c56d9578c870a63d60ee" />
This is probably the question Marvel fans are most interested in.
Robert Downey Jr. is returning to the MCU as Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday, despite Tony Stark's death in Endgame.
Marvel and the Russo brothers have repeatedly stressed that Downey's Doom is a new character, rather than simply Iron Man returning under another name.
That makes the Endgame Encore footage particularly intriguing. Could Marvel use the re-release to establish a connection between Tony Stark, the multiverse and Doctor Doom?
There is currently no confirmation that Downey Jr. will appear in the new Endgame footage, so fans should treat that possibility purely as speculation.
Premium Screens Could Get Extra Footage
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/496807342afea8c6da2a7eabc53a6a22c696b6568b141d5b2fc0fc9ea2a6d024" />
The re-release is also being positioned as a premium cinema event.
Endgame Encore will feature special material through IMAX and Infinity Vision, Disney's new premium large-format certification. GSC describes Infinity Vision as a certification focused on large screens, bright images and enhanced sound, with Avengers: Endgame Encore and Avengers: Doomsday among its first films.
For hardcore MCU fans, this could make premium screenings the preferred way to experience the re-release.
When Can Malaysians Get Their Tickets?
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Avengers: Endgame Encore is set to hit Malaysian cinemas on 24 September 2026, with both GSC Cinemas and TGV Cinemas listing the film for its local release.
However, ticket sales have yet to be announced by either cinema. Fans will have to wait for official updates on the ticket sale date, showtimes, ticket prices and available premium formats such as IMAX and Infinity Vision.
For now, mark 24 September on your calendar and keep an eye on GSC and TGV&rsquo;s official channels for ticketing updates.
Is Endgame Encore Worth Watching?
For casual viewers, probably not essential &mdash; especially if you've already watched Endgame multiple times and can stream it at home.
For hardcore Marvel fans, however, the equation is different.
The film is returning with new Doomsday-related footage, and Marvel is deliberately positioning it as a bridge between the Infinity Saga and the upcoming Avengers film. With Avengers: Doomsday arriving in December, Endgame Encore could potentially contain the first meaningful clues about where the MCU is heading next.
So yes, the original ending may still break your heart &mdash; but this time, there could be something waiting for you after it ends.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Still not over Endgame? Marvel is bringing it back with extra footage designed to bridge the gap to Avengers: Doomsday.

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Avengers: Endgame Encore Is Coming To Malaysia — Here’s What To Expect

Haze continues to affect several parts of Malaysia, with air quality deteriorating across Sarawak, the Klang Valley and parts of the peninsula as smoke from fires in Indonesia contributes to worsening conditions.
Authorities have urged Malaysians, particularly vulnerable groups, to limit outdoor activities and monitor the latest Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as the haze persists.
Several Areas Record Unhealthy API Readings
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As of 26 August 2026, several areas nationwide were recording unhealthy air quality, according to the latest Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) readings.
In Sarawak, Sri Aman recorded an API reading of 167, followed by IPD Serian at 164 and Samarahan at 162.
The Klang Valley was also affected, with Cheras recording 159, Shah Alam 157, Johan Setia 158 and Batu Muda 152. Putrajaya recorded 158, while Nilai in Negeri Sembilan recorded 162.
An API reading between 101 and 200 is classified as unhealthy, while 201 to 300 is considered very unhealthy and readings above 300 are hazardous. Malaysia's API readings are updated hourly from monitoring stations nationwide.
Haze Linked To Fires In Indonesia
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The worsening haze comes as Indonesia continues efforts to contain forest and land fires in several parts of the country, particularly Sumatra and Kalimantan.
Smoke from these fires has crossed into neighbouring areas, particularly Sarawak, while dry conditions and the Southwest Monsoon have contributed to the spread of haze across the region.
Indonesia has stepped up firefighting efforts, deploying thousands of personnel alongside helicopters for water-bombing operations and other measures to reach areas that are difficult to access by land.
Malaysia and Indonesia are also increasing cooperation to tackle the situation.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/52cf96adf45bfc171669a5b6792366832174c4941c85d3a8775540a9813ba2d3" />
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said both countries had agreed to strengthen preventive measures and early firefighting efforts, particularly as the El Ni&ntilde;o phenomenon is expected to intensify towards October.
Malaysia has also received permission from Indonesia to conduct cloud-seeding operations in Indonesian airspace near shared border areas. The National Disaster Management Agency and Malaysian Meteorological Department are preparing the operational schedule in coordination with Indonesian authorities.
Indonesia Investigates Alleged Deliberate Fires
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Indonesian authorities are also investigating whether some of the fires were deliberately started for land clearing.
As of 22 August, Indonesia's police had identified 72 suspects, many of whom were reportedly farmers and daily workers accused of manually burning land.
Authorities are also working with Indonesia's Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre to investigate whether companies or individuals may have provided funding for the burning activities.
Investigators reportedly recovered items including lighters, fuel, machetes, chainsaws and oil palm seedlings from some locations, raising suspicions that certain fires may have been deliberately started for plantation development.
Indonesia has deployed tens of thousands of personnel and aerial firefighting assets to contain the fires, while continuing to monitor hotspots across affected provinces.
Malaysians Falling Ill As Haze Continues
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/0bbcbbda7e7ff9d30cb6fd7a8e68eda5901a5b736c74b1a556d935c920dfca5f" />
The worsening air quality is also being reflected in Malaysia's health statistics.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad previously revealed that asthma cases recorded through the Health Ministry's surveillance system jumped by 259%, increasing from 61 cases in epidemiological week 32 to 219 cases in week 33.
Cases of upper respiratory tract infections also rose by 124%, from 1,637 to 3,674 during the same period.
The Health Ministry has advised Malaysians, especially children, older people and those with respiratory or heart conditions, to take extra precautions when API readings become unhealthy.
People are encouraged to reduce strenuous outdoor activities, stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary exposure to haze.
Those experiencing breathing difficulties or other symptoms are advised to seek medical attention.
Haze And Heat Could Add To Health Risks
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/16f6f4f0688f8474723f84b8eeff6d07da6910895a2b7edb9f37521bd1417e21" />
Malaysia is also continuing to monitor heat-related illnesses alongside the haze.
Dr Dzulkefly said 90 heat-related illness cases had been recorded nationwide up to epidemiological week 33, including 71 cases of heat exhaustion, 14 cases of heatstroke and five cases of heat cramps.
Nine cases were recorded during week 33 alone, including eight involving participants at SUKMA Selangor 2026. One person required hospital treatment.
With haze and hot weather occurring at the same time, Malaysians are being encouraged to check air quality readings before planning outdoor activities.
What Should You Do During Hazy Conditions?
When API levels reach the unhealthy range, Malaysians should consider reducing time spent outdoors, particularly when haze is visibly heavy.
People with asthma, respiratory conditions and cardiovascular issues should take additional precautions, while children and older adults may also be more sensitive to poor air quality.
Keeping windows closed when outdoor air quality is particularly poor, staying hydrated and avoiding smoking or smoky environments can also help reduce exposure.
For now, authorities in Malaysia and Indonesia continue to monitor the situation closely as efforts to control the fires and improve regional air quality continue.
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Malaysia’s air quality is worsening as haze continues to affect multiple states, from Sarawak to the Klang Valley.

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