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What Happens After an HPV-Positive Result? A Guide for Women in Malaysia

Malaysia’s cervical cancer screening strategy has evolved significantly in recent years. In 2023, the Ministry of Health introduced updated national guidelines positioning human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing as the primary screening method, gradually replacing the Pap smear as the first-line approach to enable earlier detection of cervical cancer risk.

This shift forms part of Malaysia’s Action Plan Towards the Elimination of Cervical Cancer (2021–2030), which aligns with the World Health Organisation’s global 90-70-90 targets: vaccinating 90% of girls by age 15, screening 70% of women at key ages, and ensuring 90% of those with cervical disease receive appropriate treatment.

In 2025, implementation in Malaysia was further reinforced through government-backed programmes, including subsidised HPV DNA screening for women aged 30 to 65 under Budget 2025, delivered through LPPKN clinics and nationwide outreach initiatives.

National screening data also reflects the scale of this transition. More than 160,000 women have undergone HPV DNA testing, with over 10,500 testing positive, underscoring both how common HPV exposure is and why proper follow-up care matters.

In this Q&A, Dr Hoo Mei Lin, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, addresses common misconceptions, explains what an HPV-positive result means, and outlines what women in Malaysia can realistically expect after screening.

This interview was facilitated by BREGO Life Sciences as part of an ongoing public education initiative on HPV screening and follow-up pathways. The doctor’s responses are provided independently and are intended for general educational purposes.

Q1. How is human papillomavirus (HPV) transmitted, how common is it, and does it usually cause symptoms?

Dr Hoo: HPV is most commonly transmitted through intimate or sexual skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, oral or anal contact. Even close genital contact, not necessarily intercourse, can transmit the virus.

HPV is extremely common. It is estimated that up to 80% of sexually active people, even those who have only had sex once in their lives, will be exposed to HPV at some point. Most people are exposed soon after becoming sexually active.

Most HPV infections do not cause symptoms. The reassuring news is that in many cases, the immune system clears the infection naturally.

Q2. When someone receives an HPV-positive result, what does it mean medically? Does it mean she has cancer or precancer?

Dr Hoo: There are more than 200 types of HPV, and only about 14 are considered high-risk because they have been linked to cancer.

A positive HPV result does not mean a woman has cancer or precancer. It simply means the virus has been detected and that closer follow-up may be needed. In other words, it is a signal for increased vigilance, not a diagnosis of cancer.

Q3. Does testing HPV-positive affect a woman’s chances of getting pregnant or having a healthy pregnancy?

Dr Hoo: Testing HPV-positive does not affect fertility or a woman’s ability to have a healthy pregnancy.

However, if a woman has undergone treatment for high-grade cervical lesions, such as a large loop excision or cone biopsy, this can theoretically shorten the cervix. She should inform her obstetrician about any previous cervical procedures, as a shortened cervix may increase the risk of premature delivery and may require monitoring during pregnancy.

Q4. How can a woman improve her chances of clearing HPV?

Dr Hoo: In 70% to 90% of women, the immune system clears HPV naturally. There is no specific medication that removes the virus, but supporting overall immune health can help the body deal with it more effectively.

Simple lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference. These include stopping smoking, eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep, staying physically active, and managing stress.

Using condoms may also help reduce repeated exposure to the virus. Women who have not yet been vaccinated should also consider HPV vaccination, as it can protect against other HPV types and may help reduce the risk of reinfection after the virus has cleared.

Some supportive therapies, such as Papilocare®, have also been developed to help restore the cervical environment while the body responds to the virus. This vaginal gel is not a treatment for HPV itself, but is designed to support the body’s natural ability to clear the virus while helping the cervical lining recover. Studies have shown promising results.

Q5. While waiting for follow-up, are there any symptoms that should prompt earlier medical review?

Dr Hoo: Yes. Women should seek earlier medical attention if they experience unusual bleeding patterns, especially bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, pain, or unusual vaginal discharge.

These symptoms do not necessarily mean cancer, but they should still be assessed by a doctor.

Q6. If someone has been vaccinated against HPV, including those who received it as adolescents, do they still need regular cervical screening later in life?

Dr Hoo: Yes. HPV vaccination does not replace the need for regular cervical screening.

The 9-valent HPV vaccine protects against seven high-risk strains and two low-risk strains that cause genital warts, but it does not cover every HPV type associated with cervical changes. There is still a possibility of exposure to other strains.

In addition, some women may only have been vaccinated after becoming sexually active, which means they may already have been exposed to HPV before vaccination. HPV can also remain suppressed or latent and reappear later when immunity is lower, which is why regular screening remains important.

Q7. If a woman is already HPV-positive, is vaccination still relevant or beneficial? Should both men and women receive vaccinations?

Dr Hoo: Yes to both.

Vaccination can still be beneficial even if someone is already HPV-positive, because people are rarely infected with all HPV strains. The vaccine can still protect against other high-risk types.

The 9-valent HPV vaccine protects against nine HPV types that together are linked to approximately 90% of cervical cancers, 90% of anal cancers, 90% of HPV-related throat cancer (oropharyngeal cancers), 90% of genital warts, and around 80% to 90% of vaginal and vulvar cancers.

HPV is not only a women’s issue. It is a human issue. Vaccinating both men and women helps reduce overall transmission in the population.

Q8. What is one common misconception about HPV you wish more people understood?

Dr Hoo: One of the biggest misconceptions is that HPV means someone has been unfaithful, or that it only affects people with multiple sexual partners. That is not true.

HPV is an extremely common virus and can remain silent or inactive in the body for many years, sometimes even decades, before it becomes detectable through screening.

A positive HPV result should be understood as a common medical finding associated with normal human intimacy. It simply means the doctor may need to monitor more closely.

It is also important to understand that having HPV does not mean a woman is going to develop cancer. It is persistent HPV infection that may lead to abnormal cell changes, and those changes may, over time, progress to cancer. Even then, this process usually happens gradually over many years, which is why regular screening is so effective. It allows doctors to detect and treat precancerous changes long before cancer develops.

Q9. Malaysia is moving toward HPV DNA testing as the primary cervical screening method. Why is this shift important, and does it mean Pap smears are no longer needed?

Dr Hoo: HPV testing looks for the virus that can cause cervical cancer, while a Pap smear looks for changes in cervical cells that may occur after the virus has been present for some time.

If an HPV test is negative, the risk of cervical cancer is very low, which means screening can be done less frequently. If an HPV test is positive, a Pap smear or liquid-based cytology may still be used to examine the cervical cells more closely and determine whether further assessment is needed.

In other words, HPV testing helps identify who is at risk, while Pap smears still play an important role when doctors need to look more closely at cellular changes. So no, Pap smears are not obsolete, but their role is becoming more targeted within the follow-up pathway.

About the Expert: Dr Hoo Mei Lin

Dr Hoo Mei Lin is a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist with a special interest in reproductive medicine and fertility. With more than two decades of clinical experience in women’s health, she is committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based care for women at every stage of life.

What Happens After an HPV-Positive Result? A Guide for Women in Malaysia

International Day of Forests: WWF-Malaysia’s work in Sarawak

Every year on 21 March, the world celebrates International Day of Forests to recognise the vital role forests play in our lives and to raise awareness about the need for sustainable forest management.

This year’s theme “Forests and Economy” highlights that forests are not only rich in biodiversity but also vital drivers of economic prosperity, from supporting livelihoods and food systems to maintaining clean water, regulating climate and providing nature-based solutions.

Forest Department Sarawak Director Datu Hamden Mohammad was quoted in a July 2025 news report stating that forests do more than just provide natural land, but they help the economy in many areas, especially in forest-rich places like Sarawak. According to Hamden, forests in the state contribute about RM 2.8 billion to RM 3.5 billion a year. This includes both tangible benefits like timber, non-timber forest products and ecotourism, and intangible benefits such as ecosystem services and cultural values.

WWF-Malaysia Sarawak Conservation Head Cynthia Chin points out that these numbers show that forests are important both as natural heritage and economic assets. They provide raw materials for forest industries, sources of food and medicine, and ecosystem services like clean water, flood protection and carbon storage. These benefits help reduce costs and add value over the long term.

WWF-Malaysia Conservation Programme in Sarawak

Empowering the Ulu Ai Kanan Community in Ulu Sungai Menyang Landscape

As part of the orangutan landscape in Ulu Ai-Sedilu, WWF-Malaysia implements the project “Empowering the Livelihoods of the Ulu Ai Kanan Community in Ulu Sungai Menyang Landscape in Batang Ai, Sri Aman, Sarawak”. This is a collaboration between WWF-Malaysia and the Ulu Ai Conservancy, and it is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The main objective of this project is to strengthen orangutan conservation by ensuring that forest habitats remain connected and sustainably managed. At the same time, the project highlights empowering the Iban communities as key partners in managing natural resources.

Connecting Conservation and Development

Ulu Sungai Menyang, which lies outside a totally protected area boundary, is a crucial landscape for the movement and survival of orangutan populations. The project supports efforts to conserve and connect this important orangutan habitat through a comprehensive landscape management approach known as community conserved area or CCA.

Chin shares that WWF Malaysia’s recent orangutan survey in Ulu Sungai Menyang area has shown a significant orangutan increase.

“Our Terrestrial Mammal team carried out marked nest counts in 2025. Results from our analysis show that orangutan population has increased to an estimated 167 individuals against 115 individuals in surveys by other conservation partners in 2014.

“Managing community forest areas sustainably helps lower the chances of habitats fragmentation. WWF-Malaysia recognises that conservation is more effective if local communities have stable alternative sources of income. Therefore, the project introduces a range of sustainable livelihood initiatives.”

Sustainable Livelihood Alternatives

Key activities include:

  • Sustainable pepper farming – Promotes good agriculture practices that reduce chemical use and prevent clearing new forests.
  • Agroforestry – Integrates agricultural crops with forest trees, maintaining ecosystem structure while generating income.
  • Mushroom cultivation – Provides additional economic opportunities that require little space and do not harm the forest.
  • Traditional handicraft production – Utilises local skills and culture as alternative income sources.

Agroforestry plays a particularly important role in balancing economic needs and conservation. It allows communities to cultivate commercially valuable crops without clearing forests entirely, preserving ecological functions such as carbon storage and soil protection.

Socioeconomic and Ecological Impacts

Through this project, communities gain more stable income sources while building capacity in sustainable land and forest management. This reduces reliance on activities that may damage the forest, such as uncontrolled clearing of new land.

More importantly, when communities see the direct economic benefits of a conserved forest, conservation becomes a shared interest rather than solely an external organisational agenda. This model demonstrates that forests can serve as a foundation for resilient and inclusive local economies.

International Day of Forests: WWF-Malaysia's work in Sarawak
Growing pepper sustainably supports communities and protects our forests. © Ezen Chan / WWF-Malaysia
International Day of Forests: WWF-Malaysia's work in Sarawak
The Malaysian Pepper Board, WWF-Malaysia and Ulu Ai conservancy signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance sustainable pepper farming in the Ulu Sungai Menyang landscape, supporting both local communities and forest conservation. © Ezen Chan / WWF-Malaysia

Sustainable Agricultural Innovation in the Northern Sarawak Connectivity Landscape

In Ba’ Kelalan, WWF-Malaysia introduced the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) as a more efficient, environmentally-friendly alternative to conventional rice farming. Unlike traditional methods relying on continuous waterlogging and chemical fertilisers, SRI emphasises controlled water use, systematic plant spacing and soil management to enhance natural fertility.

SRI improves water efficiency, maintains soil health, supports biodiversity and increases crop yields. By avoiding chemical fertilisers and pesticides, SRI lowers input costs and increases profit margins for farmers. In the long term, it helps build a more climate-resilient agricultural system. As paddy productivity increases, the need to clear new forest areas for agriculture is reduced, which is an important consideration in biodiversity-rich northern Sarawak.

International Day of Forests: WWF-Malaysia's work in Sarawak
SRI paddy fields thrive without chemical inputs. © Ezen Chan / WWF-Malaysia
International Day of Forests: WWF-Malaysia's work in Sarawak
By 2025, more than 100 Ba’ Kelalan farmers have embraced sustainable rice farming practices. © Ezen Chan / WWF-Malaysia
International Day of Forests: WWF-Malaysia's work in Sarawak
Farmers in Ba’ Kelalan work towards Malaysian Good Agricultural Practices (MyGAP) certification, reinforcing sustainable rice farming and ensuring food safety. © Ezen Chan / WWF-Malaysia

Community Empowerment and Inclusive Governance

WWF-Malaysia emphasises empowering communities and inclusive governance, enabling local community to participate actively in forest management, says Chin These efforts preserve biodiversity while expanding sustainable use of forest products, supporting community livelihood and strengthening economic resilience in the face of climate challenges.

On International Day of Forests, Chin stresses that recognition is due to all stakeholders who play a vital role in these initiatives, including government agencies, implementing partners, local communities, researchers, the private sector, local and international funders. The collaboration of multiple parties demonstrates that sustainable forest management requires collective commitment and a shared vision.

“Ultimately, celebrating forests means acknowledging their value as an economic foundation, a source of life, and a guarantee for a sustainable future for generations to come. When forests are responsibly preserved, community well-being and economic stability are strengthened continuously,” she concludes.

MyPACA brings Malaysians together in Southern France for Year of the Fire Horse

By Ng Ai Fern

Some 10,000 kilometres from Malaysia – and weeks before Chinese New Year – a group of Malaysians from diverse backgrounds, the majority from Borneo, ushered in the Year of the Fire Horse in a distinctly Malaysian way in the south of France.

The gathering of about 40 Malaysians, many of whom travelled hundreds of kilometres and met one another for the first time, marked the first official event organised by a newly formed Malaysian diaspora group in the region.

Malaysian Community in the South of France

The association, Malaysians in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (MyPACA) aims to bring together Malaysians living in southern France – a community often overlooked compared to the larger, long-established groups in Paris and Lyon.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) is a region in southeastern France, known for its Mediterranean coastline and scenic Provence countryside, including the famous lavender fields. The association hopes to connect not only Malaysians within the region, but also friends and families of Malaysians across southern France.

The PACA region is roughly the size of Pahang and is home to about five million people. It spans six departments, with major cities including Marseille and Nice. Although PACA is only about a quarter the size of Sarawak, it has nearly twice Sarawak’s population. In Sarawak terms, it feels like several divisions compressed into one Mediterranean stretch.

For many attendees, travelling to the inaugural gathering meant journeys comparable to driving from Kapit to Kuching, or from Belaga to Kuching, distances many were willing to cover for a festive celebration that reminded them of home.

Mr Jean-Pierre de Bono, Honorary Consul of Malaysia in Marseille, also attended the luncheon and shared how Malaysians in the region could seek assistance from his office when needed.

MyPACA brings Malaysians together in Southern France for Year of the Fire Horse
MyPACA newsletter featuring the Malaysian Chinese New Year luncheon in southern France

Finding Familiar Voices Abroad

Settling in France, a country about 1.7 times larger than Malaysia and with roughly double its population, can sometimes feel isolating. Many Malaysians in the region moved for family, work or study, and some have lived there for more than a decade.

In a country where accents, languages and seasons differ greatly from home, the chance to reconnect with familiar voices, share Malaysian food, and speak Bahasa Malaysia or their dialect again brought a sense of comfort and belonging.

Established in June 2025, MyPACA seeks to strengthen networking among Malaysians, promote Malaysia’s culture and identity, and foster a supportive and inclusive community abroad.

Its founder and president, Anne Ravera, hopes the platform will go beyond social gatherings and also promote Malaysia to the francophone community.

Bringing Borneo Flavours to France

The Chinese New Year celebration was held at a Chinese restaurant in Marseille, France’s second-largest city after Paris and a historic Mediterranean port often described as France’s gateway to the south.

Besides the traditional Chinese New Year dish of fish symbolising abundance, another highlight of the luncheon was a homemade yee sang, prepared with seven ingredients including Mediterranean vegetables. The dish was shared in the Malaysian tradition of tossing for prosperity, unity and new beginnings.

Anne has previously participated in cultural initiatives promoting Malaysian heritage, including introducing Sarawak’s famed kek lapis not only in France but across parts of Europe. She also helped promote Malaysian delicacies at the international food festival “Saveurs du Monde” in Marseille last year.

Last year, a group of Borneans organised a Kaamatan celebration that drew Malaysians from across Europe. This year, with MyPACA as a formal platform, the ambition is not necessarily to grow bigger in size, but greater in vision — to showcase Malaysia’s rich and diverse culture with pride and to play a role in the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.

MyPACA brings Malaysians together in Southern France for Year of the Fire Horse
Yee sang – Malaysian prosperity toss with a Mediterranean twist.

Visit Malaysia 2026

Moving forward, the association hopes to expand its outreach across the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, collaborate with local partners, and organise cultural, networking and family-oriented programmes that keep Malaysians connected to one another and to home.

In doing so, MyPACA aims to serve as a bridge between Malaysians in southern France and Malaysia itself, supporting initiatives such as Visit Malaysia campaigns and strengthening people-to-people ties.

Conversations and collaborations like these helped inspire the vision of building a platform such as MyPACA that brings Malaysians and friends of Malaysia together in France through culture, gastronomy and community.

Kalau ada sumur di ladang,
Boleh kita menumpang mandi;
Kalau ada umur yang panjang,
Boleh kita berjumpa lagi.

Telin Kaloni: A Woman Leader Protecting Nature and Heritage in Sri Aman

This International Women’s Day 2026, it is important to shine a light on extraordinary women from all walks of life. One such woman is Telin Kaloni from Kampung Menangkin Tengah, Sri Aman, Sarawak – a community leader whose courage, dedication and love for nature show that leadership and stewardship know no gender.

A Woman Community Leader

Beyond her role as a mother and active member of her community, Telin has served as tuai rumah (headwoman) since 2020. It is a demanding role in Dayak society that calls for insight, courage and the trust of the community.

By stepping into this position, she defies the traditional gender norms of leadership, showing that women are equally capable of guiding their communities with strength and clarity.

“Leadership is not about being a man or a woman, but about responsibility to the community,” she said.

Telin Kaloni: A Woman Leader Protecting Nature and Heritage in Sri Aman
Meet Telin Kaloni, a committed community leader who is passionate in conserving nature. © Ezen Chan / WWF-Malaysia

An Explorer Since Childhood

Telin’s journey begins in childhood, where she grew up immersed in the customs, spirituality and deep connection her community shares with nature.

At just 10 years old, Telin embarked on her first climb to Gunung Lesong, a mountain near her village. That experience left a lasting mark on her, igniting a lifelong passion for exploring forests, caves, waterfalls and sacred sites while documenting the natural and cultural heritage of her people.

Over the years, she has climbed Gunung Lesong about 20 times. Each journey is done with care and purpose. She observes wildlife, studies the forest, protects important historical sites and keeps the stories of her ancestors alive.

Through her work, she connects the past with the present and helps her community stay close to the land that sustains them.

“Every journey in the forest teaches me about life and respect for nature.” she said.

Telin Kaloni: A Woman Leader Protecting Nature and Heritage in Sri Aman
Telin (left) on her first hike up Gunung Lesong. Photo courtesy Telin Kaloni.

Even now, Telin continues to explore different parts of Gunung Lesong with her family members. With every step, their understanding of the land deepens, and so does their bond with one another.

What began as a hike has become a shared tradition and a way to honour nature, preserve stories, and pass down a love for the forest to the next generation.

Telin Kaloni: A Woman Leader Protecting Nature and Heritage in Sri Aman
Telin Kaloni during one of her many journeys to Gunung Lesong, where she continues to explore and learn from the forest. Photo courtesy Telin Kaloni.

A Nature Conservation Advocate

Telin is involved in conservation work with organisations such as WWF-Malaysia including tracking orangutan nests and documenting flora and fauna. These efforts help protect forest biodiversity for future generations.

For Telin, the forest is more than a landscape. It is heritage, sanctuary and teacher.

Gunung Lesong is not only breathtaking in its beauty but a place that calms the soul, inspires reflection, and reminds us to honour our roots and our responsibilities to the world around us.

“The forest does not belong to us alone; it is a loan for our grandchildren.”

Telin Kaloni: A Woman Leader Protecting Nature and Heritage in Sri Aman
Telin Kaloni reviewing maps, contributing to efforts that help document and protect local biodiversity. © Zora Chan / WWF-Malaysia
Telin Kaloni: A Woman Leader Protecting Nature and Heritage in Sri Aman
Telin Kaloni (centre) during conservation fieldwork in the forests of Sri Aman alongside a WWF-Malaysia team documenting forest biodiversity. © Zora Chan / WWF-Malaysia

An International Women’s Day Inspiration

While what distinguishes Telin from others is her unwavering spirit and dedication, her story is also a reflection of countless rural women whose contributions often go unseen.

Quietly, they lead communities, protect tradition and safeguard the environment. Their work shapes the future while leaving little recognition for themselves.

This International Women’s Day, Telin’s journey reminds us of the power of giving to gain.

By devoting her time, energy and expertise to community leadership, cultural preservation and environmental protection, she inspires us to recognise that true impact comes from giving selflessly to build a richer, more sustainable world.

Her courage, perseverance and devotion to the Earth make her a living testament that women are equally capable of leading, protecting nature and safeguarding our shared heritage.

“If we protect nature, nature will protect us.”

Telin Kaloni: A Woman Leader Protecting Nature and Heritage in Sri Aman
Telin (centre) in traditional Iban attire. © Ezen Chan / WWF-Malaysia

Inside the Craft of Malaysian Silversmith Jessie Koh and Her Peranakan-Inspired Jewellery

From floral and mythical creature motifs to intricate filigree, traditional Peranakan jewellery is defined by its distinctive design and enduring craftsmanship. Shaped by a fusion of Chinese, Malay, and European influences, these pieces reflect a culture rich in storytelling, where craft and identity are closely intertwined.

For silversmith Jessie Koh, the values behind that tradition – patience, discipline and pride in workmanship – shaped not only her creative aesthetic, but a work ethic that she carried into a successful 20-year career across retail, sales and operations.

When she stepped away from corporate to pursue silversmithing full-time, the career pivot was less a departure than a return to the same foundations embedded in her life since childhood.

Today, her metalsmithing practice includes the light-hearted everyday pieces of Jessie’s Trinket Trove, the Peranakan-inspired collections of her flagship brand JK Gems, and My Artisan Hub, the studio and workshop she founded to cultivate and share an appreciation for traditional craft.

The makings of a heritage storyteller

Inside the Craft of Malaysian Silversmith Jessie Koh and Her Peranakan-Inspired Jewellery
Jessie Koh in a Nyonya kebaya wearing a cuff from her collection.

Jessie was born in Penang while her father was serving in the army, later moving to Kluang before the family settled in Kuala Lumpur. With a Penang Nyonya mother and a Baba father from Melaka, she grew up in a household where making was not just a hobby but part of everyday life.

“My childhood environment shaped me tremendously. The respect for materials, the patience to see things through, and the belief in doing things properly even when no one is watching were lessons absorbed quietly over time.”

Her father built cabinets and repaired what needed fixing while her mother designed and sewed clothing from fabrics they selected together.

“Craftsmanship was simply part of everyday life. It wasn’t idealised or treated as something special,” she says. “I witnessed the long hours, the physical demands, and the discipline required to make things well.”

The shift from corporate to craft

Inside the Craft of Malaysian Silversmith Jessie Koh and Her Peranakan-Inspired Jewellery
Jessie Koh at the bench during the early days of her metalsmithing journey, which began as a creative outlet before becoming a full-time craft.

Jessie completed her MBA at RMIT University in Melbourne before returning to Malaysia in 2010, where she resumed her corporate career. Over the next seven years, she would continue to build on that trajectory, while a quieter instinct persisted – the urge to create with her hands.

In 2017, she finally stepped away from the corporate world to explore metalsmithing more fully.

“Silversmithing eventually became the point where everything aligned,” she explains. “The jeweller’s bench demanded the same discipline I had honed in corporate life, but offered something deeper — tangible outcomes, mastery through repetition, and a direct connection between effort and result.”

What began years earlier as simple experimentation with pliers, wire, beads and a jewellery-making book gradually deepened into a more serious pursuit.

Determined to move beyond hobbyist techniques, Jessie pursued formal training in metalsmithing and stone-setting in Kuala Lumpur at the Lucy Walker Metalsmith Academy, where regular access to a professional studio allowed her to develop both technical skill and confidence at the bench.

“Having regular access to a professional studio environment allowed me to work consistently at the bench — repeating techniques, correcting mistakes, and building confidence through disciplined practice,” she says. “Much of my confidence today comes from remaking the same forms repeatedly until the process becomes intuitive.”

Working in silver

Inside the Craft of Malaysian Silversmith Jessie Koh and Her Peranakan-Inspired Jewellery
The Eternal Flora pendant with Amethyst in the making (left) and the finished piece.

Jessie works primarily with 925 sterling silver and semi-precious gemstones, crafting each piece by hand from her studio. Designed for everyday wear, sterling silver develops character over time while retaining its strength.

“It has a quiet elegance that suits my design language, and it responds well to traditional hand-fabrication techniques without losing its integrity,” she says. “Sterling silver also has a long history in jewellery-making, which aligns with my interest in craft traditions and pieces that are made to be worn, lived in, and kept over time.”

Like all precious metals, sterling silver benefits from mindful care. Exposure to air and everyday wear may cause it to tarnish slightly, but this is easily managed with regular cleaning and proper storage.

Jessie recalls a customer who rarely takes off a favourite piece she made – the Eternal Flora Pendant with Jasper and Citrine.

“Sterling silver suits her and feels natural on her, and knowing the piece was handmade – shaped slowly and intentionally – gives it a sense of presence and permanence. In that way, the jewellery becomes more than an object; it’s something familiar and grounding through its form, weight, and meaning.”

Shaping Peranakan heritage into form under JK Gems

Inside the Craft of Malaysian Silversmith Jessie Koh and Her Peranakan-Inspired Jewellery
Jessie at work in her studio, wearing a protective mask while shaping silver at the bench.

While Jessie’s Trinket Trove represents the lighter and more accessible side of her work, JK Gems – launched in 2025 as her flagship brand – reflects the more technically rigorous side of her metalsmithing practice. The collections focus on statement and collector pieces that require greater time, complexity and mastery at the bench.

“The transition wasn’t about abandoning one for the other,” she says. “It was about clearly defining two distinct brand pillars within my practice.”

Jessie’s Peranakan heritage informs the direction of JK Gems in subtle ways. Rather than reproducing traditional jewellery motifs directly, she studies the underlying design language found in Peranakan pieces and translates these references into contemporary jewellery. This research also extends to traditional forms such as the kerongsang rantai, whose structure and symbolism she continues to study and reinterpret.

“I’m particularly interested in restraint,” she explains. “Simplifying forms, refining proportions, and allowing negative space so the pieces feel contemporary while still carrying cultural memory.”

Inside the Craft of Malaysian Silversmith Jessie Koh and Her Peranakan-Inspired Jewellery
The crafting of a Warisan Peranakan cuff, part of her JK Gems collection that reinterprets traditional Peranakan design language through contemporary metalsmithing and design.

This approach can be seen in collections such as the Warisan Peranakan Cuffs and Eternal Flora Pendants, both of which received support from the MyCreative Ventures Matching Fund Scheme, recognising the role heritage-informed contemporary craft can play within Malaysia’s creative economy.

Behind JK Gems, Jessie continues to work largely on her own at the bench. While she briefly welcomed interns from Institut Kraf Negara in 2025, the design and making remain entirely her own – each piece slowly developed, tested and refined through repeated bench work.

“Each piece is handcrafted slowly and intentionally, positioned as wearable art rather than trend-driven fashion,” she says. Created in limited numbers, the pieces are intended to be lived with over time, revealing their character through everyday wear.

My Artisan Hub: A space for learning and community

Inside the Craft of Malaysian Silversmith Jessie Koh and Her Peranakan-Inspired Jewellery
Jessie Koh hammering at the bench. Metalsmithing has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated craft, often associated with physical strength rather than technique, with women sometimes assumed to focus more on aesthetics than technical skill. Through her work and teaching, Jessie continues to challenge these assumptions, with her craft speaking for itself.

As Jessie’s metalsmithing practice deepened, she recognised the need for a dedicated space that could support both serious making and meaningful learning.

That idea took shape in My Artisan Hub, the studio she opened in Sri Hartamas in 2022. The space allows her to focus on her own work at the bench while also sharing the fundamentals of metalsmithing with others in a structured, professional environment.

For Jessie, teaching goes beyond technique. Through workshops, courses and a rent-a-bench programme, My Artisan Hub encourages participants to develop patience, discipline and a deeper understanding of the craft traditions behind the work.

Since opening the studio, she has noticed a shift in how people engage with handmade objects.

“Participants begin to recognise the patience and skill involved in making, often developing a deeper appreciation for objects shaped by hand. For some, the studio becomes a place to slow down and reconnect with making; for others, it marks the beginning of a more committed creative journey.”

Deepening the practice

Inside the Craft of Malaysian Silversmith Jessie Koh and Her Peranakan-Inspired Jewellery
Jessie and her customers.

Looking ahead, Jessie’s focus will be on between deepening her work under JK Gems and strengthening My Artisan Hub as a serious metalsmithing studio.

Rather than expanding quickly, she is continuing to refine her heritage-informed collections –  including Eternal Flora Pendants and Warisan Peranakan Cuffs – taking time to test, remake and evolve each piece at the bench.

Meanwhile, she continues to refine My Artisan Hub as both working atelier and learning space, strengthening workshops, supporting practitioners, and maintaining an environment where the connection between making, teaching, and heritage remains visible.

Together, the two sides of her work reflect the same philosophy: steady progress built on discipline.

“Both sides move at a deliberate pace, but together they reflect the same intention: to build work and space that can last, grow steadily and contribute meaningfully to contemporary craft.”

3 Famous Chinese New Year Pantang (And What They Really Mean)

By Ng Ai Fern

Pantang (taboos) have long been part of Asian culture. From pregnancy and postpartum confinement to schooling, weddings and daily life, many of these beliefs have been passed down through generations. Some arrived with our ancestors; and others evolved locally, shaped by our multicultural environment.

Chinese New Year, however, carries an extra layer of pantang. And depending on dialect groups – Foochow, Hakka, Hokkien, Cantonese – or even which country you are in, the “rules” can differ slightly.

Here are three well-known Chinese New Year taboos almost every Sarawakian has heard of.

    1. The Lucky Colour – and the Unlucky ones

    Chinese love red – without question.

    It symbolises joy, prosperity, vitality and celebration. That’s why red dominates weddings, birthdays and, of course, Chinese New Year- from lanterns and couplets (red poetic banners placed at doorways) to angpow and decorations.

    Interestingly, research shows that red symbolises happiness not just in Chinese culture, but also across Indian, Malay and other communities.

    In some European cultures, the colour ’red’ indicates violence and anger. In Asian societies – especially within the Indian community – it expresses purity and happiness.

    In Sarawak, we do not write people’s name in red, and never wear red to a funeral.

    White and black, on the other hand, are traditionally associated with mourning. Some older generations still dislike wearing all-black outfits during Chinese New Year, as it resembles funeral attire.

    Today, white wedding gowns are common, black outfits are fashionable, and cultural meanings have softened. Wearing red head-to-toe during Chinese New Year nowadays would be be more of a fashion disaster than a pantang.

    2. Lucky Numbers — and Unlucky Ones

    In many parts of Asia, buildings omit the 4th floor from their numbering.The reason comes down to linguistics: 4 (四, sì) is the same sound as death (死) in Chinese. Similarly, some Western buildings skip the 13th floor, and certain airlines avoid row 13, as 13 is traditionally considered unlucky in Western cultures.

    On the lucky side:
    • 8 (八, bā) sounds like fa (发), meaning prosperity
    • 9 (九, jiǔ) symbolises longevity
    • 168 is often read as “一路发” – continuous wealth

    That’s why car plates with 8s can sell for astonishing prices.

    Taylor Swift famously loves the number 13, calling it her lucky number. She has successfully rebranded her lucky 13 and featured it repeatedly in her work, including her latest Opalite music video!

    Numbers only have power if you let them. So if you’re visiting a house numbered 4 during CNY – relax. No bad luck will chase you home. If you receive angpow with RM4, RM40, RM400 (which are really rare) – just keep it!

    3. Sweeping the Floor & Washing Hair – Are You “Sweeping Away Luck”?

      Traditionally, sweeping the floor on the first day of Chinese New Year is discouraged, as it is believed to symbolically sweep away the good fortune that arrives with the new year.

      In reality, however, garbage trucks don’t operate during festive days – which makes cleaning before the new year (or slightly after) simply practical.

      Another common pantang discourages washing or cutting hair and nails, based on wordplay that suggests you might “wash or cut away wealth”. Well, salons often close for days – sometimes even weeks during Chinese New Year.

      And let’s be honest: Malaysia is hot, and hygiene matters. A bit of common sense goes a long way. It would be far more unlucky to fall sick and end up seeing a doctor or taking medication during Chinese New Year.

      The Wisdom Behind the Pantang

      Nevertheless, Some taboos still carry wisdom – speak kindly, avoid conflict, don’t break things, clear old debts, and start the year with good intentions. Those values never go out of season. In today’s society, where cultures blend naturally and traditions evolve quietly, it’s perfectly fine to loosen the rules. Respect the past, but live fully in the present.

      Celebrate comfortably, eat well, laugh loudly – and welcome the Year of the Horse with a clear heart and an open mind. Happy Chinese New Year. 🧧🐎

      Lisbon Must-Eats and Their Secret “Relatives” in Borneo

      By Ng Ai Fern

      The Portuguese have a saying: “Quem não viu Lisboa, não viu coisa boa.” It means, “If you haven’t seen Lisbon, you haven’t seen true beauty.”

      Portugal’s capital and coastal city, Lisbon (or Lisboa in Portuguese), is built on seven steep hills, which means a lot of walking, and a lot of calories burned – which gives you a reason (or an excuse) to eat to your heart’s content.

      Between the colourful ceramic-tiled buildings and breathtaking scenery, its true beauty also lies in its strong coffee aroma, and certain food that feels strangely familiar to us in Borneo.

      For first-time visitors, here are three must-eats in Lisbon – and their distant relatives in Sarawak.

      1. Arroz de Marisco – Seafood Rice (or “Porridge”)
      Lisbon Must-Eats and Their Secret “Relatives” in Borneo
      Arroz de marisco, Portugal’s beloved seafood rice, soupy, rich, and cooked fresh, is closer to a porridge than paella.

      Unlike Spanish paella, Portuguese seafood rice is soupy – closer to porridge. It is called arroz de marisco and can be found all over Lisbon, especially in the touristy old town. Many restaurants look similar and even share similar names. But only one consistently draws a long queue.

      UMA Marisqueira, founded in 1988, proudly calls itself “the best seafood rice in the world.”

      They are so popular that they opened a second outlet just steps away – but it only operates when the staff are ready, so patience is required when joining the queue.

      Each pot – with lots of seafood – is cooked fresh. It is so famous that their menu – with only seafood rice as the main course (for 1 pax or 2 pax) – is printed in multiple languages, except Malay. This is essentially the main reason people come. The wine list, however, is extensive, with plenty of Port wine.

      I expected a tourist trap. I was wrong. After finishing every last spoonful, with peri-peri chili sauce added, I left a five-star review without hesitation. The crab was exceptional. Sweet, fleshy, and full of flavour – possibly the best I ever had.

      Later during the trip, when I craved real Asian congee – the kind Sarawakians turn to when feeling unwell – I couldn’t even find it in an “authentic” Macau restaurant in Lisbon. It made me realise that although both are called seafood rice or porridge, the Portuguese version and ours are actually very distant relatives at best – sharing a name but not the soul.

      1. Pastel de Nata – the Original Egg Tart
      Lisbon Must-Eats and Their Secret “Relatives” in Borneo
      The original pastel de nata from Belém, with its crisp pastry and lightly caramelised custard, remains Lisbon’s most famous sweet.

      The birthplace of the egg tart, UNESCO’s wonder Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, is another must-visit. And the original egg tart – still made using the same secret recipe and traditional methods – is, of course, a must-eat.

      The tart was first sold in the 19th century at its permanent neighbour Pastéis de Belém to raise funds for the monastery. Today, the monastery still stands proudly, although clearly in need of constant restoration without the benefit of proceeds from tart sales.

      From the date “1837” tiled into the floor to its blue-and-white tiled walls, and the various displays at Pastéis de Belém, everything is Instagrammable. The queue never ends.

      The taste surprises many. They are nothing like the soft flavourful egg tarts we usually get. The crust is ultra-crispy, flaky, and slightly burnt in the best way. The custard is creamy, and not too sweet.

      What began as a modest fundraising effort has since become a global phenomenon. Back in Borneo, we have taken it further – with durian egg tarts that boldly outshine their ancestor.

      1. Leitão / Porco Assado – suckling pork
      Lisbon Must-Eats and Their Secret “Relatives” in Borneo
      Portuguese crispy pork, whether called leitão or porco assado, is prized for one thing above all else – sumptuously crackling skin.

      The Portuguese were among the earliest Europeans to reach Malaya and documented Sarawak long before British rule. Still, Portuguese crispy pork and ours evolved differently – although the obsession is the same: perfectly crackling skin.

      Crispy pork, whether called leitão or porco assado, is available in many restaurants in Lisbon. I had mine at a Michelin-star restaurant called Mosteiro do Leitão (literally translates to “Piglet Monastery”) famous for traditional roasted suckling pig, in Batalha, about 2 hours from Lisbon city centre,

      The open kitchen was a show on its own. Dedicated staff prepared the piglets, using special scissors to cut the meat with precision. Each plate came with a slice of lemon.

      It tasted different from Cantonese suckling pig or our local barbecue-style pork, but it was so sinfully delicious.

      Sometimes, halfway across the world, you find a dish so delicious it feels like you’ve met it before. It turns out some of our local favorites just have a distant cousin with a fancy passport and a more atas name.

      The 3 Famous Trees of Fort Canning Park, Singapore

      By Ng Ai Fern

      Most people come to Fort Canning Park, one of Singapore’s most historic green spaces, for its past. Some come for the museums. Others come for the view.

      But today, many visitors arrive for something else entirely: its trees – centuries old, rare, or simply photogenic.

      Here are three famous trees in Fort Canning Park, including one that technically isn’t just about the tree at all.

      1. The most famous heritage tree in Fort Canning: The Majestic Rain Tree

      “I flew all the way to Singapore just to see this tree.”
      – a Trip.com post that has since gained significant attention online

      The post even provides detailed directions to locate the Rain Tree within Fort Canning Park – no small feat in a 22-hectare green space with multiple entrances and winding paths.

      Native to tropical America, the Rain Tree (Samanea saman) was introduced to Singapore in 1876. It is one of the Heritage Trees in Fort Canning Park, conserved under Singapore’s Heritage Tree Scheme for its ecological and historical value.

      According to the Heritage Tree Guide, the Rain Tree gets its name from the way its leaflets close when the sky is overcast. It is also known locally as “Pukul Lima” – “five o’clock” in Malay – because its leaves fold in the evening.

      Trip.com Moments post
      Post on Rain Tree in Fort Canning featured on trip.com moment

      2. The most mysterious tree: The Kapok Tree that allegedly walks at night

      The Kapok Tree (Ceiba pentandra) is another Heritage Tree found in Fort Canning Park and, like the Rain Tree, is native to tropical America.

      Unlike its photogenic counterpart, the Kapok Tree is less famous on social media and far more renowned in folklore and ghost stories.

      According to the Fort Canning tree trail guide, the Kapok is a fast-growing species that can reach heights of 50 to 70 metres, and is likely still growing today.

      Its cream-coloured flowers emit a milky scent and later produce large seed pods that split open to release white, cotton-like floss. The word kapok itself means “floss” in Malay. This waterproof fibre was traditionally used to stuff pillows, mattresses, and even life buoys.

      Across cultures, the Kapok Tree is steeped in mysticism.

      In ancient Maya mythology, it was believed to form a sacred link between the heavens, earth, and the underworld – its roots reaching below while its branches held up the sky. Some Caribbean folklore even claims the Kapok Tree walks at night.

      Closer to home, in Singapore and Malaysia, it is said that “Dear Lady P” loves to sit on its branches.

      Despite its imposing presence, the Kapok Tree remains relatively overlooked online – perhaps not because of its ghostly reputation, but because its sheer height makes it difficult to frame as a dramatic photo backdrop.

       Kapok Tree in Fort Canning, Photo from Singapore National Parks’s official Facebook page
      Kapok Tree in Fort Canning, Photo from Singapore National Parks’s official Facebook page.

      3. The most photographed “tree” in Fort Canning

      This is the spot almost every visitor recognises, even if they don’t know its name.

      Many come specifically to take a photo here, often queuing for long stretches of time for what has become Singapore’s most viral “tree” photo.

      Here’s the truth: it isn’t a tree.
      It isn’t a tree hole.
      And it isn’t really a tree tunnel either.

      It’s a drainage tunnel.

      The circular opening frames a yellow Flametree above, while most photos are taken from the spiral staircase below. Together, they create the illusion of a “tree inside a tunnel”, a visual trick that has taken Instagram and Xiaohongshu by storm.

      Follow the park signage to the famous “tree tunnel.” Visit at any time, but expect a queue. There have even been reports of disputes, theft, and complaints due to overcrowding.

      It might just be the most photogenic piece of tree-related travel content, not only in Singapore and Johor Bahru (as Phua Chu Kang would say), but possibly the world.

      Screenshots of Instagram posts with #fortcanning
      Screenshots of Instagram posts with #fortcanning.

      Visiting Fort Canning Park Today

      Once known as the “forbidden hill,” Fort Canning is now open for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can explore the Heritage Gallery, the Spice Gallery, and nine historical gardens, all free of charge. Guided tours and virtual tours are also available.

      Do keep an eye on the tropical weather: watch for lightning or falling branches during storms, and bring plenty of patience for your photoshoot.

      Back home in Sarawak, our trees may be older. But there is something uniquely striking about seeing heritage trees standing quietly just steps away from bustling Orchard Road. Best of all, Fort Canning is less than an hour’s flight away with Scoot and AirAsia and soon, AirBorneo.

      Volvo ES90 Makes Its Malaysia Debut as Volvo’s First Electric Sedan

      Volvo Car Malaysia has officially launched the Volvo ES90, the brand’s first fully electric sedan, offering a range of up to 651 kilometres (WLTP), 800-volt fast charging, and its most advanced safety and computing technology to date.

      Assembled locally in Shah Alam, the new Volvo ES90 is now available for viewing at all authorised dealers nationwide, priced from RM339,888. To reward early adopters joining this new journey, the launch includes a 2 per cent early-bird incentive, strictly limited to the first 100 units booked by 31 March 2026.

      Chris Wailes, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia and Thailand shares: “For 60 years, Volvo has been part of the Malaysian journey. Today, we turn a new page with the launch of the ES90. This is the car for the driver who seeks balance – blending the executive presence of a premium sedan with the sustainability and performance of our latest electric technology. It is locally assembled, globally class-leading, and designed to look after you like only a Volvo can.”

      Chris Wailes, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia and Thailand, during the launch of the Volvo ES90.
      Chris Wailes, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia and Thailand, during the launch of the Volvo ES90 in Kuala Lumpur on 22 January 2026.

      Designed for Life in Balance

      The Volvo ES90 combines the versatility of a fastback with the spaciousness of an SUV, offering generous legroom and a refined “living room” feel through its Scandinavian interior design.

      Beneath its elegant exterior lies Volvo’s most advanced 800-volt architecture. For Malaysian drivers, this translates into less waiting and more moving, with the ES90 capable of charging from 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 22 minutes using a 350 kW DC fast charger.

      On a full charge, the ES90 delivers a WLTP range of up to 651 kilometres, enabling confident interstate travel from Kuala Lumpur to Penang or Johor Bahru without range anxiety.

      Volvo ES90 combines the versatility of a fastback with the spaciousness of an SUV.
      Volvo ES90 combines the versatility of a fastback with the spaciousness of an SUV.

      Confident, Distinctive and Practical

      Viewed in profile, the Volvo ES90 immediately stands out with its confident and distinctive stance. A slightly raised ride height gives the driver a more commanding view of the road, while the flowing roofline balances elegant proportions with interior space and contributes to excellent aerodynamics, boosting overall efficiency and electric range.

      At the front, the signature Thor’s Hammer headlight design expresses a familiar yet modern Volvo identity. The rear is equally distinctive, featuring new C-shaped LED rear lamps complemented by LED lighting in the rear window, creating a unique welcome and farewell light sequence.

      A large, wide tailgate hatch makes loading family luggage or activity gear effortless. The boot offers up to 424 litres of space, expandable to 904 litres with the individually foldable 40/20/40 rear seats lowered. A 27-litre front luggage compartment provides a convenient space for charging cables.

      Customers can choose from four exterior colours, including Vapour Grey, Crystal White, Denim Blue and Onyx Black.

      A close-up of Volvo’s Thor’s Hammer LED headlight design on the ES90.
      Volvo’s signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlights define the front design of the fully electric ES90.

      Comfort and Functionality throughout the Cabin

      Its interior focuses on premium comfort, authentic materials, and purpose-driven design, true to Volvo’s Scandinavian identity. The long 3.1-metre wheelbase provides generous second-row legroom, creating an exceptionally comfortable space for adults and children alike.

      Six curated interior ambient lighting themes elevate sensory well-being, complemented by ventilated Nordico upholstery in Charcoal that delivers refined comfort with a modern, sustainable edge.

      A panoramic roof with electrochromic glass provides up to 99.9 per cent UV protection. At the touch of a button, passengers can adjust the glass transparency to reduce glare and increase privacy.

      Added comfort comes from a four-zone climate control system with an advanced air purifier, capable of blocking up to 95 per cent of PM2.5 particulates and removing 99.9 per cent of grass, tree, and pollen allergens from the cabin.

      The Volvo ES90 is also engineered for exceptional sound comfort, with ultra-low noise levels that make it one of Volvo’s quietest cabins ever. This allows occupants to fully appreciate the Bowers & Wilkins sound system, featuring 25 high-fidelity speakers delivering 1,610 watts of immersive audio throughout the cabin. Dolby Atmos® creates a lifelike spatial sound experience, while an exclusive Abbey Road Studios mode recreates the acoustics of the legendary London recording space.

      The long 3.1-metre wheelbase provides generous second-row legroom, creating an exceptionally comfortable space for adults and children alike.
      The long 3.1-metre wheelbase provides generous second-row legroom.

      Intelligent Technology that evolves over time

      The Volvo ES90 is the first Volvo powered by the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin computing platform, capable of performing trillions of operations per second. Acting as the vehicle’s core computer, it processes data from cameras, and radars to create a 360-degree safety shield around the car.

      Built on Volvo’s Superset technology stack, the ES90 is designed to improve over time through regular over-the-air updates, enhancing everything from energy efficiency to infotainment features, ensuring the car continues to feel new for years to come.

      The new-generation infotainment system with Google built-in includes Google Maps, Google Assistant, and access to a wide range of apps via Google Play. Powered by the Snapdragon® Cockpit Platform from Qualcomm Technologies, the 5G-capable system delivers a seamless and responsive experience across the 9-inch driver display, head-up display, and the 14.5-inch centre touchscreen.

      To support confident manoeuvring in tight spaces, the ES90 is equipped with a 3D surround view supported by a 360-degree camera system.

      The lightweight 800-volt system also improves overall efficiency and performance, contributing to a drag coefficient of just 0.25. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 6.6 seconds, balancing refinement with responsive performance.

      Volvo ES90 is the first Volvo powered by the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin computing platform.
      Volvo ES90 is the first Volvo powered by the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin computing platform.

      Sustainability in Focus

      Battery technology is just one aspect of the Volvo ES90’s sustainability credentials. The model also supports Volvo Cars’ broader environmental ambitions through the extensive use of recycled and natural materials.

      Twenty-nine per cent of all aluminium and 18 per cent of all steel used in the ES90 is recycled. The car also contains 16 per cent recycled polymers and bio-based materials, while interior wood panels are crafted from FSC-certified sources—contributing to lower CO₂ emissions during production.

      C-shaped LED rear lights give the Volvo ES90 a distinctive presence from behind.
      Volvo ES90 features distinctive C-shaped LED rear lamps complemented by LED lighting in the rear window.

      Safe Space Technology, Inside and Out

      True to Volvo’s heritage, the ES90 is designed to help protect everyone in and around the car. Developed to meet the rigorous Volvo Cars Safety Standard – built on more than 55 years of real-world safety research and exceeding official testing requirements – the ES90 represents the next chapter in Volvo’s safety leadership.

      It features a strong safety cage, advanced restraint systems, and optimised deformation zones. Active safety is powered by a comprehensive sensor suite comprising five radars, seven cameras, twelve ultrasonic sensors – enabling vision beyond human capability to help avoid collisions and hazards.

      The ES90 also comes standard with Volvo’s driver understanding system, which can detect when the driver’s attention is no longer focused on the road and intervene with supportive measures when needed.
      Safe Space Technology extends protection beyond driving. When parked, a door-opening alert helps safeguard passing cyclists and pedestrians by warning occupants before doors are opened.

      SELAMAT: Volvo’s Safety Campaign in Malaysia

      Volvo Car Malaysia also officially launched SELAMAT, a thematic campaign running throughout 2026, designed to transform road safety from a regulatory mandate into a shared culture.  

      Throughout the year, Volvo Car Malaysia will host a series of on-ground activations and educational initiatives to reassert the importance of safety fundamentals. These efforts will build towards a major milestone – the SELAMAT Drive, slated for Q2 2026. This flagship driving event will allow Malaysians to experience the synergy between safe driving habits and Volvo’s innovative technologies in a real-world environment. 

      Volvo's SELAMAT campaign was introduced through a teaser activation featuring an ES90 wrapped in a specially designed ‘SELAMAT’ livery, supported by digital and outdoor elements across Kuala Lumpur.
      Volvo’s SELAMAT campaign was introduced through a teaser activation featuring an ES90 wrapped in a specially designed ‘SELAMAT’ livery.

      Volvo ES90 Key Specifications at a Glance:
      • Platform: SPA2 with 800V Architecture
      • Range: Up to 651 kilometres (WLTP)
      • Charging: 10 – 80% in 22 mins (DC Fast Charging)
      • Audio: Bowers & Wilkins High-Fidelity Audio with Dolby Atmos
      • Infotainment: 14.5-inch centre screen with Google built-in

      The Volvo ES90 is now available for booking. Customers can configure their vehicle and place an order online or visit their nearest Volvo retailer.

      For more information on the Volvo Car Malaysia’s range of electrified cars, visit www.volvocars.com/my or follow Volvo Car Malaysia on Facebook at bit.ly/VolvoMY-FB and Instagram at bit.ly/VolvoMY-IG.

      Source: Volvo Car Malaysia

      Sarawak Liberation 1945: The Day Japanese Occupation Ended

      By Ng Ai Fern

      Did you know that 11 September 1945 marks Sarawak’s liberation in World War II?

      Many Malaysians only became aware of Malaysia Day (16 September) after it was declared a public holiday in 2010. Likewise, Sarawak Day (22 July) only gained prominence after being gazetted by Sarawak’s late Chief Minister Adenan Satem in 2016.

      So it is completely okay that many Sarawakians do not realise that 11 September (9.11) marks Sarawak Liberation Day – the day Sarawak was formally freed from Japanese occupation in 1945.

      Here are 5 lesser known facts that you probably can’t find in a textbook.

      1. When the war ended – and communication failed

      In Sarawak, Japanese forces first landed in Miri on 16 December 1941, targeting vital oil fields. Kuching fell shortly after, and Sarawak remained under Japanese rule for three years and nine months, from 1941 to 1945.

      Globally, World War II caused an estimated 70–85 million deaths. In Sarawak, exact numbers are unknown, but thousands of civilians and prisoners of war suffered or lost their lives.

      When Japan announced its surrender in August 1945, conditions on the ground in Borneo did not change immediately or uniformly. Japanese forces were spread across territories administered differently before the war, including Sarawak, North Borneo (now Sabah), and Kalimantan, and each area experienced the transition at a different pace.

      Notably, many POWs in Borneo were not released immediately after Japan announed its surrender. Liberation only came once Allied forces could physically reach and secure the region.

      For Sarawak, this process culminated on 11 September 1945, when Japanese authority formally ended following a surrender accepted by Allied forces.

      Archived newspaper coverage announcing Japan’s surrender.
      Archived newspaper coverage announcing Japan’s surrender.
      1. Why Are There So Many “Victory Days”?

      World War II is remembered through multiple Victory Days because surrender was announced, formalised, and enforced at different times in different places.

      Key milestones in 1945 include:

      • 6 August: Atomic bombing of Hiroshima
      • 9 August: Atomic bombing of Nagasaki
      • 15 August: Japan announces its surrender (Victory in the Pacific / VP Day in Australia)
      • 2 September: Formal surrender signed aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay (Victory over Japan Day / V-J Day in the United States), officially marking the end of World War II.

      In Sarawak, however, things moved more slowly. Allied forces could not immediately locate or contact Japanese commanders in Borneo. As a result, the surrender in Sarawak was delayed, even after Japan had officially lost the war.

      1. What Happened on 11 September 1945?

      11 September 1945 was the day Sarawak was finally and formally liberated.

      In Kuching, Major-General Yamamura Hiyoe signed the instrument of unconditional surrender and handed over his sword to Brigadier Thomas Charles Eastick of the Australian Imperial Force, symbolising the formal end of Japanese military authority in Sarawak.

      For Sarawak, 9.11 is its true Victory Day.

      Major General Yamamura signed the Instrument of Surrender, marking the formal end of Japanese military control in Borneo. Source: Australian War Memorial
      Major General Yamamura signed the Instrument of Surrender, marking the formal end of Japanese military control in Borneo. Source: Australian War Memorial
      1. Why HMAS Kapunda?

      The surrender ceremony took place aboard HMAS Kapunda, an Australian naval vessel involved in post-war operations in Borneo.

      After the surrender, HMAS Kapunda:
      • Assisted in transporting liberated Allied POWs
      • Supported the restoration of Allied control in the region

      When its mission was complete, the ship returned to Sydney on 17 November 1945, was placed into reserve in January 1946, and eventually decommissioned and scrapped in 1960, ending a four-year wartime service that spanned more than 110,000 nautical miles.

      HMAS Kapunda, one of the WWII-era Australian minesweepers (often referred to as corvettes), played a role in post-war operations in the region. Source: Royal Australian Navy
      HMAS Kapunda, one of the WWII-era Australian minesweepers (often referred to as corvettes), played a role in post-war operations in the region. Source: Royal Australian Navy
      1. Why does it matter today?

      In 2025, Sarawak marked the 80th anniversary of its liberation.

      A modern naval vessel was used to symbolically recreate the moment once witnessed aboard HMAS Kapunda, reconnecting the present with a long-forgotten chapter of history.

      To commemorate the moment:
      • The original Japanese surrender documents were formally presented to the Sarawak Governor (TYT) by Brigadier Eastick’s family
      • A memorial monument was erected at Pending Point, Kuching

      The whereabouts of the surrendered sword, however, remain undocumented in public records.

      While less well known than other national commemorations, 11 September 1945 marks the day peace truly returned to Sarawak.

      It is more than a date in history, it’s a reminder that freedom sometimes arrives quietly, delayed by distance, yet no less meaningful.

      A memorial monument at Pending Point, Kuching, commemorating the Japanese surrender and the return of peace to Sarawak. Source: Official Facebook page of Sarawak Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian
      A memorial monument at Pending Point, Kuching, commemorating the Japanese surrender and the return of peace to Sarawak. Source: Official Facebook page of Sarawak Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian
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