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FUEFUKI (Japan), April 29 — A worn-out Pikachu plushie, tired teddy bear or stained stuffed animal can all get a new lease on life at a Japanese laundry service making beloved toys squeaky clean again.
Masakazu Shimura, a cleaning professional with three decades of experience, gave one stuffed Pokemon already in good condition a steam shower, carefully brushing it after a gentle bubble scrub, almost as if caring for a newborn baby.
Videos of the meticulous care the cuddly toys receive at his workplace, Cleaning Yonmarusan, have mesmerised plushy fans on social media, awarding the high-end fabric care viral fame and attracting customers from around the world.
Relying on his expertise and experience cleaning everything from dress shirts to camping tents, Shimura washes and restores the delicate fabric of soft toys.
“While hand-washing, I carefully feel what kind of material it is and assess the condition of the material and so on, gently massaging it with my hands as I wash it,” he told AFP.
Shimura is among a dozen certified cleaning professionals at Yonmarusan, a regional chain in Yamanashi, west of Tokyo.
While the firm has been cleaning soft toys for decades, business has boomed thanks to viral social media posts in recent years on the back of a Gen Z adoration for plushies and Japan’s love for everything cute and cuddly.
Today, the service cleans more than 10,000 soft toys every year, compared to roughly 1,200 annually a decade ago.
And some people even “come to Japan specifically for the purpose of having their soft toys cleaned”, said Hisako Mori, the firm’s public relations manager.
“While the cleaning is being done, they enjoy travelling around Japan. At the end of their trip, they pick up their stuffed animals before heading home.”
Shimura said some clients wish to keep specific scratches or scribbles on their toys, as those marks sometimes carry precious memories.
“These items hold special memories. That’s true for clothing as well, but even more so for stuffed animals, which we recognise our customers see as members of the family,” he said.
“It’s a process where we truly cannot let our guard down... When our customers are happy with the results, that’s really the moment when we feel a strong sense of fulfilment.” — AFP
KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 — The Malaysian Football League (MFL) will thoroughly examine the views and concerns raised by clubs during a roundtable discussion with Malaysia League (M-League) representatives here today.
MFL president Datuk Ab Ghani Hassan said that such discussion sessions are not new; rather, they are part of the organisation’s ongoing practice of gathering feedback from all stakeholders.
According to Ab Ghani, all feedback received will be reviewed collectively to ensure the best approach is formulated for the benefit of all parties involved.
“This is not the first time. We do these things often, though we don’t always do them publicly or announce what we are doing. Many issues have actually been written about and discussed by the public previously.
“Today’s discussion was held because the league is nearing its end and the new season is expected to begin in August. Therefore, many clubs shared their respective difficulties, and these matters have been conveyed to the MFL,” he said when met immediately after the session concluded.
Elaborating further, Ab Ghani emphasised that the MFL’s primary role as the league operator is not focused solely on profit, but rather on ensuring that clubs remain competitive within the domestic football landscape.
“We will take note of all those views so they can be studied together. It is not a matter of MFL profiting or the clubs profiting; MFL’s role as the league operator is to look after these clubs so they are able to remain competitive in the M-League,” he said.
The discussion, chaired by Ab Ghani, was also attended by MFL Board Member Mustaza Ahmad, Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) Club Director Datuk Seri Mohamad Jaifuddin Bujang, Kuching City FC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Iswandi Ali Hassan, Penang FC General Manager Jeffery Chew Gim Eam, and MFL CEO Mohd Shazli Shaik Mohd.
Ten other club representatives involved were from Sabah FC, Imigresen FC, Kelantan TRW, PDRM FC, DPMM FC, Selangor FC, Negeri Sembilan FC, Terengganu FC, Kuala Lumpur City FC, and Melaka FC.
Earlier, the roundtable discussion held at a hotel here was surprised by the arrival of JDT owner Tunku Mahkota Ismail while the session was underway. — Bernama
SEOUL, April 29 — Foreign tourists who recently visited South Korea for concerts by K-pop giant BTS stayed longer and spent more than general inbound tourists, according to a government analysis released today, Yonhap News Agency reported.
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, along with the Korea Culture and Tourism Institute and the Korea Tourism Organisation, analysed on-site surveys, telecommunications and credit card data from the two latest performances by BTS in South Korea.
Foreign visitors attending the March 21 concert in Seoul’s Gwanghwamun area to mark its comeback stayed an average of 8.7 days and spent about 3.53 million won (US$2,377).
This is 2.6 days longer than the 6.1-day average stay for general inbound tourists in the first quarter of this year and 1.08 million won more than their average spending of 2.45 million won.
Attendees at its three-night concerts earlier this month in Goyang, just northwest of the capital, stayed an average of 7.4 days and spent 2.91 million won.
Mobile and card transaction data showed a sharp economic impact around Goyang Stadium, the concert venue, with foreign visitor numbers rising 35-fold and spending increasing 38-fold during the concert period compared with a year earlier.
The government is seeking to leverage the global popularity of Korean pop culture — including K-pop music, dramas, films and games — to promote tourism beyond Seoul into regional areas.
“We have confirmed that large-scale ‘hallyu’ performances have a clear effect in attracting visitors to regions,” said Kang Jung-won, a tourism policy official at the ministry.
“Hallyu,” also known as the Korean Wave, refers to the global popularity of Korean pop culture.
As part of those efforts, the ministry plans to hold a two-week welcome event in June tied to the BTS concerts in Busan, the country’s second-largest city, aiming to encourage overseas visitors to explore other parts of the country.
Kang added that the government will focus on linking foreigners’ visits to experience Korean culture with broader cultural tourism offerings to encourage them to stay longer in the country. — Bernama-Yonhap
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.
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.
SINGAPORE, April 29 — The prosecution has demanded the maximum three-year jail sentence for a 47-year-old man with dual Singaporean and Indonesian citizenship who failed to report for National Service (NS) in 1997.
Edmond Yao Zhi Hai was convicted in what is believed to be the first-ever trial for NS evasion, CNA reported.
Born to a Singaporean mother and an Indonesian father, Yao was raised and educated in Singapore but also held an Indonesian passport.
During his trial, Yao’s defence argued he believed he was bound by Indonesian law, which forbids citizens from serving in a foreign military. Serving NS, they claimed, would have meant forfeiting his Indonesian citizenship.
However, the judge rejected this, ruling that Yao was fully aware of his NS obligations. The offence was deemed one of “strict liability,” meaning intent did not need to be proven.
In the sentencing hearing on Tuesday, the prosecution argued for the maximum penalty, saying Yao’s dual citizenship was irrelevant and that he showed “not one ounce of remorse.”
In response, defence lawyer Sunil Sudheesan argued that a jail term “totally disrespects this Indonesian citizen’s desire to keep his Indonesian citizenship” and, by extension, “disrespects Indonesia as well.”
He positioned the case as a unique dilemma, asking, “What was he to do? If he served, he would lose his Indonesian citizenship. How is that fair to him?”
The judge has adjourned sentencing to May to consider the arguments.
GEORGE TOWN, April 28 — Malaysia’s film industry is set for a fresh injection with Mamu The Movie, a production that promises not only entertainment, but also a rich mix of emotion, comedy, action and family values that resonate deeply with local audiences.
Produced by Emilia Nasser, the film draws inspiration from everyday community life, particularly among Penangites, where the term “mamu” symbolises close bonds, brotherhood and the role of a male figure within the family institution.
Emilia said the film brings together a strong lineup of popular actors, including Saiful Apek, Wan Raja, Zairi Aziz, Priscilla Nair, Didie Alias, Diana Danielle, Shahidan Izwan, Yassin, Bell Ngasri, Adam Corrie, Risteena and Wafa Reina, alongside emerging talents including digital content creators from Penang, particularly TikTok personalities.
“This film is more than just entertainment; it invites audiences to explore the meaning of ‘mamu’ itself: a father, a brother, or a male figure who plays an important role in both family and society.
“The presence of such a strong cast will undoubtedly enhance the storyline and attract audiences from all walks of life,” she told Bernama after the script reading and thanksgiving ceremony for the film here.
Adding to the excitement, Saiful Apek takes on an unconventional transformation to portray the emotionally complex lead character, Mamu Tajuddin.
Directed by Zulkifli Abu Hassan, filming is scheduled to begin on May 29 around Penang and is expected to take more than a month to complete.
Zulkifli said the film adopts a distinctive visual approach, blending cinematic elements inspired by Bollywood, Tamil and Telugu films, complete with musical romantic sequences and vibrant visuals, while still maintaining a strong local identity.
The film also celebrates cultural diversity by featuring a multi-ethnic cast within a harmonious narrative, including an Indian heroine character that reflects Malaysia’s multicultural society.
“We want to show that our industry can go further by embracing diverse talents and cultures. Interestingly, more than half of the cast hail from Penang,” he said.
At its core, the film centres on the relationship between a father and child, exploring themes of sacrifice, emotional conflict and the challenges of family life.
The beauty of Penang also plays a significant ‘character’ in the film, with more than 30 scenic locations featured, highlighting a blend of traditional charm and modern development.
Meanwhile, Saiful Apek, whose real name is Muhammad Saiful Azam Mohamed Yusoff, expressed optimism that the film will capture audience attention through its fresh and unexpected storytelling approach.
He noted that the strength of the production lies not only in its narrative, but also in its technical aspects such as cinematography and filmmaking techniques, which help actors bring their characters to life.
“When you look at the screenplay, the filmmaking approach and the cinematography, all of these greatly support the acting. If everything planned translates well on screen, I believe it will offer something refreshing to audiences,” he said.
With an estimated production cost of nearly RM2 million, the film is targeting box office earnings between RM10 million and RM15 million, while also aiming to penetrate international markets including Singapore, Brunei and Indonesia.
Beyond local screenings, the production team plans to submit the film to international film festivals to introduce it on the global stage.
Mamu The Movie is expected to hit cinemas on December 22. — Bernama
APRIL 28 — The case of Nizar v Zambry decided by the Federal Court in 2010 is the lex classicus, as legal experts would term it, on the issue of confidence of the majority of members of a legislative assembly.
In that case, the Federal Court held that the loss of confidence in the Menteri Besar (MB) may not only be established through a vote in the state legislative assembly (SLA) but may also be gathered from other extraneous sources provided they are properly established. Such sources include representations made by members of the Perak SLA that the MB no longer enjoys the support of the majority of the members of the SLA.
In that case, there was a demonstration of support by 31 members of the SLA for Barisan Nasional (BN). This clearly pointed to the loss of confidence of the majority of the members of the SLA in the leadership of the incumbent MB, even without a vote in the SLA.
The Federal Court also held that it was incumbent upon the MB in the circumstances of the case to tender the resignation of the executive council. The term “executive council” by definition includes the MB. If the MB refuses to tender the resignation of the executive council, the MB and the executive council members are deemed to have vacated their respective offices.
So, even if the MB is not removed by the Ruler, it matters not since the MB would be deemed to have vacated his office.
What must follow is for a member of the SLA to seek an audience with the Ruler to present to His Majesty that he has the confidence of the majority of members of the SLA. In the case of the Negeri Sembilan SLA, the number is 19.
The 14 members of Negeri Sembilan Umno and Barisan Nasional have already declared yesterday that they have obtained a simple majority to form the state government through cooperation with five Perikatan Nasional members of the SLA.
The irony is the audience is with the Ruler who is sought to be deposed or removed in accordance with the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959.
* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail.
PUTRAJAYA, April 27 — The Tiada Visa, Tiada Haji (No Visa, No Haj) compliance campaign has been launched to safeguard the welfare, safety and well being of pilgrims, curb fraud and ensure compliance with the regulations set by the Saudi government.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Zulkifli Hasan, said the campaign is being implemented in response to the Saudi government’s call to promote a similar approach.
“Through this campaign, we are working for the benefit of all pilgrims and the safety of the entire Muslim community, aiming to prevent fraud and scams that harm Muslims in Malaysia.
“So, this campaign is about ensuring that all our haj arrangements and management are well organised, orderly and truly able to meet everything our pilgrims expect,” he told reporters after attending the monthly agency gathering at the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) here today.
Zulkifli said the campaign also aligns with the Muzakarah Haji’s ruling on the importance of complying with haj visa regulations.
He said the 1447H/2026M haj season has so far run smoothly, with orderly management and good flight operations, adding that Tabung Haji (TH) continues to prioritise public safety as one of the campaign’s main missions.
“Only pilgrims with valid visas will be allowed to perform haj, which helps protect their welfare throughout their stay in the Holy Land,” he said.
He also reminded Malaysians not to perform haj independently, as they would not be covered for any problems, such as health issues, if they did not go through official channels.
He stressed that using any visa other than a haj visa, such as tourist, business, work or umrah visas, for the purpose of performing haj is an offence under Saudi law.
“Entry into Makkah for haj is only allowed for those with a valid haj visa or official documents such as an Iqamah or work permit in the Holy Land area,” he said.
He said anyone who breaks the rules can face fines of up to SR100,000 (RM105,377), while those who help or transport pilgrims without valid visas could be jailed for up to six months and fined up to SR50,000 (RM52,698). — Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, April 26 — Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan will lead Malaysia’s delegation to the 25th Asean-EU Ministerial Meeting (AEMM) in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei from April 27 to 28, where leaders will review progress and chart the future direction of the Asean–EU strategic partnership.
In a statement on Sunday, the Foreign Ministry said the biennial gathering will also provide an opportunity for Asean and the European Union (EU) to exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual concern, as well as discuss preparations for the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Asean–EU relations in 2027.
“The meeting is expected to adopt the Joint Ministerial Statement of the 25th Asean-EU Ministerial Meeting.
“The statement is expected to reaffirm Asean Centrality, commit to deepening Asean-EU cooperation across the three pillars of the Asean Community in line with the Asean Community Vision 2045, and reflect shared views on key regional and global developments,” the statement read.
On the sidelines of the 25th AEMM, Mohamad is expected to hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Asean and EU member states to discuss issues of mutual interest.
He will be accompanied by senior officials from the Foreign Ministry. — Bernama
KOTA BHARU, April 26 — The motorcycle convoy to Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (LTSIP) here yesterday was not organised by the Kelantan state government, but was an individual initiative.
Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Dr Mohamed Fadzli Hassan said the state government had no involvement in the activity, stressing that all parties must comply with regulations, especially in public areas.
“All parties must always adhere to the law and prioritise safety, particularly in sensitive locations such as airports.
“Cooperation is essential to ensure public safety and to avoid disrupting operations at such facilities,” he told reporters here today.
He noted that airports are strategic locations requiring a high level of security to ensure smooth passenger movement.
Earlier, a social media post went viral about a programme called “Konvoi & Lepak Mat Motor Bersama YB”, allegedly organised by the Government Supporters Club and State PAS Youth Wing from 5 pm to 7 pm
Meanwhile, Transport Minister Anthony Loke was reported to have described the involvement of several Kelantan assemblymen in organising the convoy to LTSIP as highly irresponsible. — Bernama
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ShutterNut... posted a photo:
Please be aware... ALL Photos are purely for entertainment. I am no expert. Titles are from recognition - what I was told - or a quick search. Polite comments or corrections are welcome.
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