KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 — For the past six years, Astro Originals has served as a platform for stories rooted in local society, continuing to evolve with each new generation of storytellers.

Like last year’s offerings, many of these projects show filmmakers unafraid to venture into new territory — a trend that continues with the upcoming Good Boys Go To Heaven.

Created by Astro Shaw and directed by Ariff Zulkarnain, the series marks the company’s move into the psychological thriller genre, helmed by acclaimed screenwriter and Festival Filem Malaysia (FFM) award winner Mira Mustaffa.

The first episode, which screened last night at TGV KLCC and attended by Malay Mail, left audiences visibly shaken and hooked from the outset.

The story follows Yasser, a father forced to confront every parent’s worst nightmare when his son, Ahyan, goes missing.

The series explores trauma in depth, examining how such experiences affect not only individuals, but also those around them.

Why the script left its stars in tears

Beyond its gripping premise, the series is anchored by a strong ensemble cast.

The lineup includes Beto Kusyairy as Yasser, fresh off recent projects such as Gayong 2 and Libang Libu.

Upon first hearing the story idea from Mira and Ariff, he admitted he was immediately moved to tears, noting that the issue remains a taboo subject.

“I think this is the first time in our industry we are trying to show the audience a perspective from people who are dealing with trauma and mental health issues, while also highlighting how people around them are often judged.

“I hope what I felt during the process can also be felt by the audience later,” he said.

Zahirah MacWilson, who plays Dahlia, shared that the role required her to dig deeply both as a mother and an actor, describing it as unlike anything she had encountered before.

“I have never come across a character and script like this.

“The moment I read some of the scenes, tears started rolling down, and I couldn’t stop,” she said.

“It’s really important for us to be aware of these things, whether it happens to a child or an adult.

“These are things people need to talk about and be more open with,” she concluded.

The cast also features Firdaus Karim (Bahamin), Malek McCrone (Zayd), Amerul Affendi (Inspector Kamal), Amanda Ang (Sergeant Leona), Sky Iskandar (Ustaz Reyhan), and young talent Sayf Mikael as Ahyan.

Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, head of Astro Shaw, speaks during yesterday’s ‘Good Boys Go To Heaven’ press conference at KLCC. — Picture courtesy of Astro Originals

A thriller rooted in a real-world crisis

While not new, the issues of trauma and child disappearance remain deeply concerning both globally and in Malaysia.

In Malaysia alone, about 14,000 cases of missing children have been reported since 2014 — a figure that underscores the urgency of the topic.

“Through this series, we hope to raise greater awareness and encourage meaningful conversations, ensuring these stories are not merely momentary headlines, but ones that truly resonate and stay with audiences,” said Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, executive producer of Good Boys Go To Heaven, head of Astro Shaw, and vice-president of Malay Nusantara Business at Astro.

She also noted that the series is not easy or comfortable to watch, but emphasised that the more sensitive and uncomfortable the issue, the more important it is to bring it into the mainstream.

The team also worked with experts in child psychology and the medical field to ensure the subject was handled responsibly, given its highly sensitive nature.

“Ultimately, this is an issue that should be told,” Jastina concluded.

Good Boys Go To Heaven premieres on May 8, airing every Friday at midnight on On Demand, and at 9pm on Astro Ria (CH 104) and Astro Citra (CH 108).

KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 — Dust off the sequins and prepare for a full-blown disco throwback as world-renowned ABBA tribute act Björn Again is heading to Kuala Lumpur as part of its ‘ABBA Forever Tour’.

The performance is scheduled for August 12 at 8pm at Zepp Kuala Lumpur, where the group will deliver a two-hour live spectacle packed with ABBA’s biggest singalong anthems.

Audiences can expect classics such as Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen, Waterloo, SOS, and Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! alongside emotional favourites including The Winner Takes It All, I Have a Dream, Chiquitita, and Fernando.

Formed in Melbourne, Björn Again has toured extensively across the globe and is widely regarded as one of the most established ABBA tribute acts on the international circuit.

The group is known for its ‘live’ vocal performances, theatrical presentation, elaborate costumes, and light-hearted humour that taps into the joyous spirit of the disco era.

 

 

 

 

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Over the years, Björn Again has performed in more than 120 countries and appeared at major venues and festivals including Wembley Stadium, Royal Albert Hall, Sydney Opera House, Glastonbury Festival, Roskilde Festival, Reading Festival, and Australia’s Big Red Bash.

The group has also attracted attention from various public figures and artists over the years, further cementing its international profile.

Björn Again’s performances have been described by media outlets such as Time Out as highly entertaining live shows.

ABBA’s Benny Andersson previously commented, “Fans better make the most out of Björn Again because that’s the closest they will get to seeing ABBA.”

ABBA’s music continues to enjoy renewed global popularity, driven in part by films such as Muriel’s Wedding and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, as well as the long-running Mamma Mia! musical and its film adaptations.

Tribute acts like Björn Again, no doubt, continue to play a role in keeping that glittering legacy alive through live performances.

Tickets for the Kuala Lumpur show have been available via Ticket2U since April 28, with prices ranging from RM600 (VIP), RM498 (Diamond), RM398 (Platinum), RM298 (Gold), and RM228 (Silver).

Fans can stay tuned for updates and announcements through Shiraz Projects and Björn Again’s social media accounts.

JOHOR BAHRU, April 29 — Indonesian actors appearing in Malaysian productions reflect the growing creative exchange between the two countries.

Indonesian actress Hana Malasan is the latest talent to join this wave, following her rise in the regional industry, where she has built recognition through a range of film and television roles.

Her international visibility was boosted by her performance as Umbra, an assassin in The Shadow Strays, a physically demanding action role that marked a turning point in her career.

The project has since opened new opportunities, including her casting in the upcoming Malaysian film Hunter Eleven: The Awaken, directed by Frank See, where she plays one of the leads, Tara.

Speaking to Malay Mail, Hana said her role in The Shadow Strays did indeed play a key part in bringing her to the attention of the Hunter Eleven director and producers.

“Basically, The Shadow Strays opened up bigger opportunities for me to take on more action roles, not only in Indonesia but also outside (internationally).

“I was really grateful to be part of it because it opened doors for me to go beyond Indonesia,” she said.

Enter Tara

In Hunter Eleven, Hana describes Tara as a character defined not only by physical action but also by emotional depth.

She also contrasted her roles in The Shadow Strays and Hunter Eleven, noting differences in weapon training — using a katana in the former and a sniper rifle in the latter.

“I had the chance to train with a more than 16kg sniper rifle, and I think it was really crazy.

“It was a good experience,” she added.

Hana Malasan with fellow cast members Shi Yanneng, Yayan Ruhian and Sky Iskandar at the ‘Hunter Eleven: The Awaken’ press conference held at Iskandar Studios. — Picture courtesy of GSC Movies

Hunter Eleven will mark her first time filming in Malaysia, and she shared that the experience has been positive so far.

“Everyone was welcoming, and even though there was a language barrier on set, it didn’t make it harder to build chemistry,” she said, citing how she and co-star Shi Yanneng connected naturally through action sequences.

“That’s what’s unique about this production.

“If I had to describe the vibe on the set of Hunter Eleven, I would say fun, unpredictable, and intense.”

The grind continues

Looking back on her journey, Hana also shared her early struggles in the industry with Malay Mail, including repeated audition rejections, but said her passion for acting eventually led to her breakthrough.

Her filmography today includes horror titles such as Susuk and The Train of Death, as well as The Siege at Thorn High, written and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Joko Anwar.

She also recently stepped out of her comfort zone to portray a single mother in Kupeluk Kamu Selamanya, which is currently gaining attention in Indonesia.

When asked by Malay Mail about advice for those looking to break into the acting industry, she shared: “To enter this industry is not easy.

“There are many challenges, but if you are really passionate about it, just keep going.”

She also believes it is never too late to become an actor, noting that there is always a wide range of characters — from the elderly to young children — to portray on screen.

Hana is not slowing down.

While her love for the action genre continues, she has expressed interest in taking on a biopic or even a musical film role someday.

For now, the grind continues on Hunter Eleven: The Awaken, which is slated for release in 2027.

She will star alongside Shi Yanneng, Sky Iskandar, Yayan Ruhian, Nia Atasha, Peter Davis, Nina Kho, Ariel Izz, Chai Zi, Sangeetha Krishnasamy, Amanda Ang and Wan Serigala.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 — Malaysians have lost about RM2.9 billion to online scams, a figure Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil today described as a serious and escalating national threat.

Speaking at the Google 2026 APAC Online Safety Dialogue, Fahmi said the scale of losses showed the urgent need for stronger coordinated action between the government, tech companies, and regional partners such as Asean.

“We need better tools to ensure the safety of our citizens.

“I look forward to more constructive engagement between NSRC and Google to address how the changing landscape of bad actors can be tackled using Google’s tools,” he said.

The NSRC refers to the National Scam Response Centre.

He said the money lost to scams could have been channelled into public development, including schools and hospitals.

Fahmi praised Google’s efforts in tackling online fraud and said Malaysia is open to deeper collaboration with technology firms and the NSRC.

He also stressed that digital access alone is not enough, noting that Malaysia’s near-universal connectivity must be matched with stronger online safety safeguards.

Beyond prevention, he said greater attention should be given to supporting scam victims through education and psychological assistance.

Fahmi warned that scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, particularly with the use of artificial intelligence, which allows criminals to adapt quickly and evade detection.

He added that the cross-border nature of scams requires tighter inter-agency cooperation to effectively combat the threat.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 — A new regional initiative, “Scam Ready Asean,” was officially launched today at the Google 2026 APAC Online Safety Dialogue event in Kuala Lumpur.

The programme is designed to enhance digital safety and combat online scams across Southeast Asia, as cyber threats continue to rise alongside the region’s fast-growing digital economy.

Backed by a US$5 million (RM19.7 million) contribution from Google, the initiative will combine scam prevention tools, public awareness efforts, and large-scale digital literacy training across Asean member states.

It aims to reach 3 million people with accessible online safety resources, while providing deeper digital literacy training to 550,000 individuals.

A further 3,000 master trainers will be developed to support grassroots education and community outreach.

To ensure effectiveness across diverse communities, the programme will collaborate with over 20 local and regional partners, tailoring content to different cultural and social contexts.

Beyond raising awareness, “Scam Ready Asean” focuses on equipping individuals with practical skills to identify, question, and respond to online scams.

As digital adoption accelerates, the initiative seeks to address increasing risks such as fraud, misinformation, and cyber-enabled threats, while strengthening both technical safeguards and public resilience.

The programme forms part of Asean’s broader push to build a safer, more inclusive, and trusted digital ecosystem across the region.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 — In the world of K-pop, pop-up events regularly spring to life, and Malaysia is no stranger to the phenomenon.

Fans turn up in force when big names are involved — and this time, it’s the ‘King of K-pop’ himself, G-Dragon.

From May 1 to 17, the G-DRAGON ‘818 BLOOM POP-UP Store’ will make its highly anticipated debut at LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre (Ground Floor, Walkway 2), Kuala Lumpur, as part of a four-city rollout across Asia.

Expect queues — and plenty of them.

Fans can look forward to exclusive merchandise drops, immersive photo spots, and limited-edition surprises available only at the pop-up.

The store brings to life the world of PEACEMINUSONE — G-Dragon’s fashion label — inviting fans and collectors to step into an “everlasting message of peace.”

The collection bridges an idealistic utopia with present-day reality, centred on the iconic daisy motif.

The pop-up will also feature the limited-edition 818 BLOOM box, an experiential piece titled “Assembled with Love for Peace” in Korea.

 

 

 

 

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G-Dragon’s connection with Malaysian fans has been long-standing, built over years of performances, music releases, and unwavering support that has kept his presence strong in the country.

Last year, the BIGBANG star performed on July 19 and 20 at Unifi Arena (formerly Axiata Arena) as part of his solo Übermensch tour.

Earlier this year, he headlined the K-SPARK Malaysia 2026 concert at Stadium Merdeka, treating fans to hits like Power, Home Sweet Home, Crayon, Too Bad, and Crooked.

The pop-up will operate on timed entry sessions, with each session lasting 30 minutes. There is also a purchase limit, with each customer allowed to buy up to two units per item per session.

To raise the stakes, customers who purchase two or more items — including at least one 818 BLOOM box — will receive an exclusive limited-edition badge, turning it into a coveted keepsake for fans.

The pop-up is expected to further cement G-Dragon’s strong presence and popularity in Malaysia.

More information will be available soon on LaLaport BBCC’s Instagram or official website.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 — ReVeluvs came alive once again on Saturday as Joy took centre stage for her first solo concert in Malaysia at Zepp Kuala Lumpur.

As part of her ‘JOY Splash’ Asia tour, the night blended live performances with fan-meeting elements, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere.

The Malaysia stop followed solo appearances by her fellow Red Velvet members last year.

In September, Irene and Seulgi performed their ‘BALANCE World Tour’ at Mega Star Arena, while in December, Wendy brought her ‘W: EALIVE’ tour to Zepp Kuala Lumpur — both shows drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Joy’s turn proved no different, with around 1,500 fans in attendance.

The show began at approximately 8pm, with Joy opening the night with Hello before greeting fans.

“I miss you all.

“It’s so nice to see you in person like this,” she said.

Joy reads heartfelt letters from fans on stage, highlighting the love and appreciation for the Red Velvet star. — Picture courtesy of Zues Event

She followed up with Je T’aime and La Vie En Bleu, before moving into a series of K-drama OSTs, starting with Introduce Me a Good Person, My Lips Like Warm Coffee, Yeowooya, and Shiny Boy.

A heartfelt segment followed, with Joy reading two fan letters aloud on stage.

One expressed anxiety about the future but found comfort in Joy’s music.

“Your song comforts me, and it’s really touching for me,” the letter further reads.

Each performance and interaction was met with loud cheers, with Joy closing her first set with a cover of George Benson’s Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You.

Joy captivated fans during the ‘JOY Splash’ Malaysia stop, bringing smiles and excitement to the crowd. — Picture courtesy of Zues Event

Interactive fan games and Red Velvet throwbacks

The second set kicked off with Get Up and Dance, followed by an interactive game segment.

These activities involved responding to notes written by fans before the concert, with Joy replying by writing messages on locks that were then passed back to the audience.

A drawing game also had fans guessing her sketches, adding a playful touch to the night.

Another highlight saw the star dancing solo to snippets of Red Flavor, Feel My Rhythm, and Peek-a-Boo, delighting fans with nods to Red Velvet’s hits.

She also shared an a cappella moment with the crowd with Ice Cream Cake.

The second set continued with Unwritten Page, before concluding with Love Splash.

The final set saw Joy treat fans to Day By Day, Happy Birthday to You, and Scent of Green.

No concert would be complete without an encore.

The encore featured solo renditions of fan-favourite Red Velvet tracks, including Zimzalabim and You Better Know, before she reprised Hello to close the night.

“I was so happy today.

“Really, thank you so much,” she said.

“Seeing you all looking at me with such lovely expressions and cheering for me makes me feel like I made the right decision to do this tour,” she added, expressing hope to return.

Joy poses for a group photo with ReVeluvs on Saturday at Zepp Kuala Lumpur. — Picture courtesy of Zues Event

ReVeluvs turn out in force in Malaysia

ReVeluvs continue to show a strong presence nationwide, with many holding distinct favourites among the group’s members.

An office worker who goes by Wani, 30, said Joy is her first bias.

“I like the tone of her voice,” she said, adding that she first discovered Joy through the reality show We Got Married.

Another fan, who wished to be known only as Liew, 24, said the star clearly loves her craft.

“She is a really amazing person, personality-wise, and very strong in facing life’s challenges, and that’s what I like about her,” he told Malay Mail.

While a full Red Velvet reunion and tour remain uncertain, their individual activities continue to perform strongly, including in Malaysia.

As one fan, Researcher Iqbal, 26, nicknamed Bobal, put it, a reunion may still be possible in the future, perhaps through fan activities or performances outside Malaysia.

As ‘JOY Splash’ concluded, it was a night to remember — leaving Malaysian ReVeluvs with a lasting sense of joy and connection.