AEON Celebrates 40 Years with 40 Makeovers

AEON marked its 40th year as Malaysia's leading retailer with a grand celebration: the ‘Search for 40 Makeover Winners.’ 

Launched on August 25, the campaign rewarded 40 loyal customers with makeover prizes totaling over RM70,000, spanning four categories: Home, Lifestyle, Health & Wellness, and Financial.

Low Ngai Yuen, AEON's Chief Merchandise & Marketing Officer, commented on the initiative saying, "Our 40th anniversary is a milestone, but more importantly, it's a tribute to the enduring trust of our customers. These makeovers are our way of giving back, makeovers are more than just a change in appearance, they represent new beginnings, lifestyle choices, and the empowerment to live life to the fullest. At AEON, our products embody that spirit, offering solutions to transform lives and elevate daily experiences."

Customers participated by spending a minimum of RM200 in up to two receipts at selected AEON outlets and registering through a QR code. From 400 submissions, 40 winners were drawn for the final awards.

The highlight of the celebration took place at North Court, Mid Valley Megamall, where winners were honored, and interactive zones brought the makeover categories to life. 

Demonstrations showcased cutting-edge kitchen appliances, personal care tools, luxurious home furnishings, and AEON Credit’s financial solutions.

Low Ngai Yuen added, "Our deserving winners went through a highly competitive process - submitting essays and completing challenges. Their entries were heartfelt, filled with joy and anticipation for the transformations they hoped to experience. It’s an honor to be part of their journey to make these changes a reality"

Makeover Prizes Across Four Categories:

Home Makeover

• 1 Grand Prize: RM10,000 in Makeover Consultation, Home Products Allowance

& AEON Vouchers

• 3 Second Prizes: SHARP 65” 4K Google TVs (worth RM2,700 each)

• 8 Third Prizes: HomeCoordy/LetGo Bedding Sets (worth RM500 each)

Lifestyle Makeover

• 1 Grand Prize: RM10,000 in AEON Fashion Brand & Makeup Allowance,

Personal Colour Analysis & AEON Vouchers

• 3 Second Prizes: RM2,600 in Fashion & Makeup Allowance

• 7 Third Prizes: RM500 in Fashion Allowance

Health & Wellness Makeover

• 1 Grand Prize: RM10,000 for Personal Diet Coaching, Health Supplements,

Segar2Go Allowance & AEON Vouchers

• 3 Second Prizes: RM2,200 in Health Supplements & Segar2Go Allowance

• 7 Third Prizes: RM500 in Segar2Go Allowance

Financial Makeover

• 1 Grand Prize: 600,000 AEON Points (worth RM3,000)

• 2 Second Prizes: 400,000 AEON Points (worth RM2,000 each)

• 3 Third Prizes: 200,000 AEON Points (worth RM1,000 each)

For a full list of winners and more information, please visit: https://aeonretail.com.my/aeonmakeover/.

OSK Foundation, and Atria Shopping Gallery Unite for World Alzheimer’s Month 2024 to Raise the Awareness of Dementia

Every year on September 21, individuals worldwide observe World Alzheimer’s Day through advocacy initiatives, awareness events, and fundraising campaigns aimed at combating the stigma surrounding dementia and garnering public support against the disease. 

 

This year marks the seventh anniversary of the partnership between Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM), OSK Foundation (OSKF), and Atria Shopping Gallery (Atria) as they celebrate World Alzheimer’s Month (WAM) 2024 under the theme  “Attitudes Towards Dementia”. 

 

Dr. Soon Ee Hooi, ADFM Vice Chairperson EXCO of ADFM, highlighted a concerning statistic from a recent global dementia study: 80% of people mistakenly believe dementia is a normal part of aging rather than a medical condition. 

This marks an increase from 66% in 2019. Additionally, 65% of healthcare professionals hold the same misconception, up from 62% in 2019. Alarmingly, 88% of individuals living with dementia report experiencing discrimination, up from 83% in 2019. 

The impact of dementia is projected to nearly triple in Malaysia by 2050, according to the World Alzheimer’s Report: Global Changes in Attitudes to Dementia 2024, released by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) on September 20. 

 

"We are delighted to have World Alzheimer’s Month celebrated at Atria Shopping Gallery. It provides an invaluable opportunity to raise awareness about dementia and its effects on families, communities, and the nation," said Dr. Soon. 

She cited that a big group of healthcare professionals have reported receiving minimal training in dementia care, contributing to the perception that dementia is a natural part of aging, which can lead to delayed or incorrect diagnoses. On a positive note, Dr. Soon recognized an increase in confidence among respondents in addressing stigma compared to 2019, emphasizing that everyone can contribute to change by supporting World Alzheimer’s Month. 

 

Established in 1997, ADFM celebrates its 27th anniversary this year. The theme "Attitudes Towards Dementia" aims to underscore the importance of understanding potential risk factors and the steps that can be taken to delay or prevent dementia.  

 

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions globally, impairing memory, thinking, and behavior, and ultimately diminishing quality of life. A major challenge is the stigma associated with the illness, leading to discrimination and inadequate access to healthcare and support. 

"Despite Alzheimer’s disease being identified over 100 years ago, awareness remains insufficient among Malaysians. Therefore, advocacy and awareness efforts are central to ADFM’s mission. This year, we have planned various activities to engage the public, highlighting that greater participation leads to increased awareness," Dr. Soon added. 

 

Encouragingly, more people now recognize the link between lifestyle and dementia risk, with over 58% believing an unhealthy lifestyle contributes to the condition. Notably, 45% of dementia cases are influenced by 14 modifiable risk factors, indicating progress in public understanding. 

 

Highlights of the WAM2024 Campaign at Atria Shopping Gallery included: 

• Dementia Awareness Talks 

• Health Exercises 

• Free Health Screenings 

• Memory Walk 

• Exhibition Booths, and more 

 

This year's World Alzheimer’s Month celebration is organized by Atria Shopping Gallery in collaboration with OSK Foundation and supported by ADFM. 

 

"Dementia is not a normal part of aging; it is a neurodegenerative disorder that requires our attention. By raising awareness about cognitive decline, we can promote better brain health and potentially mitigate its effects. This September, let’s work together to spread awareness of dementia and Alzheimer’s by using the hashtags #TimeToActOnDementia and #TimeToActOnAlzheimers on social media or participating in events organized by  Atria Community Corner," said Ms. Cheryl Ong, CEO of OSK Foundation. 

 

ADFM, OSK Foundation, and Atria Shopping Gallery are committed to creating a supportive environment for individuals with dementia and fostering open discussions to combat stigma and isolation. They aim to enhance public understanding of dementia and empower the community with the resources they need. 

 

“Our collaboration with ADFM began in September 2017 with the establishment of the AtriaADFM Community Corner (AACC) on the third floor of Atria Shopping Gallery. Since then, we’ve seen a strong public response, expanding ADFM’s network of dementia care centers in Malaysia. Through AACC, caregivers and the public can learn about dementia, its early detection, and management strategies,” added Cheryl Ong. 

 

Visitors can also stop by the AACC on Atria’s third floor to learn about dementia and its early detection, as well as participate in caregiving and social activities designed for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. 

 

For more information, kindly contact our Concierge at 03-7733 5156 or visit www.atria.com.my or www.fb.com/atriadj.

Life-Space Champions Gut Health in Malaysia with Science-Backed Probiotic Solutions

Gut health is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of our overall well-being… Studies have shown that gut health is integral to a robust immune system, effective digestion, and even mental health, but, many Malaysians continue to face challenges in maintaining a healthy gut.

Recognizing this gap, Life-Space, Australia's No. 1 probiotics expert, has been a trusted name in Malaysia for many years and has grown into the largest probiotic brand online in Southeast Asia. Life-Space has expanded its reach by partnering with leading offline channels Guardian and Watsons, further championing the cause of better gut health for all.

At the forefront of Life-Space’s offerings is the Broad Spectrum Probiotic, a meticulously formulated supplement designed to support a balanced gut microbiome. This hero product, which secured top honours at the 2024 Beauty Insider Awards in Singapore and Malaysia, combines a bio-diverse range of 15 strains and 32 billion CFU of beneficial and naturally sourced probiotics to enhance digestive health, bolster the immune system, and promote overall wellness. 

Life-Space's commitment to scientific research and high-quality ingredients ensures that Malaysians have access to top-tier health solutions..

Life -Space's dedication to advancing gut health was further showcased at this week’s exclusive ‘Discover Probiotics Beyond The Gut’ Life-Space 2024 event held at the Indigo Hotel Kuala Lumpur. 

The event brought together experts, professionals and enthusiasts to learn and delve into the world of Life-Space probiotics beyond the gut. 

The event also featured Pentavite from Australia, a renowned vitamin and dietary supplement brand with a rich history spanning over 80 years offering essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health and well-being. 

One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for attendees to sample Pentavite's new Collagen Peptide Glowing Beverage, an innovative product combines the benefits of essential vitamins and minerals with collagen peptides, offering a convenient and delicious way to support skin health, hair growth, and overall well-being.

Life-Space is dedicated to improving the health of Malaysians with their science-backed probiotic solutions, addressing the specific challenges of gut health and providing effective, targeted products.

Life-Space is dedicated to advancing the health and wellness of Malaysians through innovative probiotic solutions and active participation in industry-leading events. As the brand continues to grow its footprint in Malaysia, it remains committed to providing high-quality products that support a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

GSK’s Arexvy vaccine approved to protect older adults from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical Sdn Bhd (GSK) introduced the Arexvy (MAL24086007ARZ) vaccine which had been approved in Malaysia for RSV, a common respiratory virus that can lead to serious negative clinical outcomes, such as lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) and pneumonia in older adults. 

The RSV vaccine has been approved for older adults aged 60 and above in the country. This adjuvanted vaccine can transform efforts to reduce RSV’s burden on older adults, the healthcare system and society.

The approval is based on positive data from a phase III trial, where the vaccine demonstrated high overall vaccine efficacy of 82.6% against LRTD.  94.6% efficacy was observed against RSV-LRTD in adults with co-morbidities. 

The vaccine was generally well tolerated with an acceptable safety profile done across multiple studies… Some adverse events observed were injection site pain, fatigue, myalgia, and headache. These were typically mild to moderate and lasting within a few days after vaccination. 

RSV is a common contagious virus affecting the lungs and breathing passages. Until now, it was a concerning infectious disease outcomes. Older adults are at high risk for severe disease due to age-related decline in immunity and underlying conditions.  RSV can exacerbate conditions, including COPD, asthma, and CHF, and can lead to severe outcomes, such as pneumonia. 

In 2019, RSV causes over 470,000 hospitalisations and 33,000 deaths in adults aged 60 years and older in high-income countries. Adults with underlying conditions are more likely to seek medical advice and have higher hospitalisation rates than adults without these conditions.

Whilst, RSV is a disease of all ages, in 2019, the impact of RSV in adults aged 60 years and older is significant, resulting in over 470,000 hospitalisations and 33,000 deaths in high-income countries. 

Adults with underlying co-morbidities, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, diabetes, and chronic heart failure (CHF) are at high risk for severe RSV. 

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an altered pattern of seasonal infections due to COVID-19 protection measures. 

Specifically in Malaysia, RSV infections occur all year round, with notable peaks typically occurring between July to August, as well as October to December. 

Professor Dr Ahmad Izuanuddin Ismail, Deputy Director & Consultant, Respiratory Physician Hospital Al Sultan Abdullah Universiti Teknologi MARA (HASA UiTM) shared: “RSV can lead to severe outcomes especially among older adults with co-morbidities such as Asthma, COPD and chronic heart failure. 

They also have increased risk of hospitalization following the RSV infection. iii It is important for us to protect patients aged 60 and above with co-morbidities. In Malaysia, according to the 2023 National Health Morbidity Survey (NHMS), more than half a million adults live with four co-morbidities. 

Of these, 15.6% of the adult population have Diabetes. It is time we protect our older adults with underlying health conditions from RSV infection to enable them to lead a good quality of life especially in their golden age. By prioritizing the well-being of older adults, we can collectively foster a healthier and more vibrant society, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all generations.” 

Dr. Alap Gandhi, Country Medical Director of GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceutical Sdn Bhd (GSK) Malaysia and Brunei said: “Today’s announcement is a major step forward from a public health perspective as it allows us to deliver an RSV vaccine in Malaysia to protect older adults. 

We look forward to working with various stakeholders to ensure those at high risk of severe RSV infection can access it.”

Movie Review 2024 - High Forces (Chinese)

Gao Haojun is a former Special Police officer with anger issues due to his bi-polar condition…

One day while on his way to his in-law’s home, Gao accidentally blinds his daughter, Xiaojun, which shatters his family and is guilt ridden as a result. 

His wife, Yuan, left him with their daughter who decided she didn’t want him around anymore, and Gao resigns from the police force and becomes an international security expert….

Years later, Gao bumps into his ex-wife and daughter while boarding the luxurious Airbus A380. However, during the flight, he sensed and suspected something amiss and found out that the plane was being hijacked and was holding 800 passengers hostage while at over 10,000 feet in the air. 

As the hijackers mercilessly kill passengers in the economy class, Gao steps forward and engages in a battle of brains and brawns against the hijackers where Xiaojun also secretly assists her father by providing him intel.

Chinese Title: 危机航线

Also Known As: Crisis Route ,  Wei Ji Hang Xian ,  危机救援

Cast: Andy Lau, Qu Chuxiao, Zhang Zifeng, Tamia Liu

Director: Oxide Pang

Genres:  Action,  Crime,  Family

Tags:  Special Police,  Plane Hijack,  Hijacking

Country: China 

Type: Movie

Release Date: Sep 30, 2024

Duration: 1 hr. 55 min.

Overall, it was definitely a great movie with non-stop nail biting suspense that keeps you gripping at your seat or date - if you have one!!!! A must watch for fans of family dramas, thrillers and suspense!!!!

Get. Set. Glow! with guardian Malaysia this September 2024

September 2024 is guardian Malaysia's Get.Set.Glow! month and guardian Malaysia is celebrating and cultivating all there is about wellbeing via:

• Store offerings and pharmacy services

• eStore promotions, contest and rebate

• #MYWellbeingMatters YouTube series and podcast featuring health experts and

• A week-long wellbeing festival.

 

Get.Set.Glow! help Malaysians to see why wellbeing matters and adopt the culture of preventative healthcare and nurturing of wellbeing. 

Wellbeing is an ‘important’ matter for everyone. This includes being able to access the ideal curation of wellbeing offerings coupled with guidance by experts.

 

In this campaign, guardian has chosen to work with the following experts, all of whom are medical specialists in their respective fields, to speak about key wellbeing topics on Youtube that is accessible by Malaysians nationwide:

• Dr Gayethri Chokalingam, Consultant Internal Medicine Physician

• Dr Kenny Chen, Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon

• Dr Wong Yee Ming, Consultant Paediatrician

• Dr Arunan Periasamy, Consultant Paediatrician

 

Beyond these health experts’ Youtube talk series, Malaysians can also speak with their neighbourhood’s community pharmacist. The pharmacists at guardian’s outlets nationwide have the right expertise to address our customers’ questions on blood sugar, blood pressure as well as weight management and guide them to stay healthy and be well.

 

“We, at guardian, are aware of the growing importance of wellbeing matters and therefore chose the hashtag #MYWellbeingMatters,” added Anna Ng, Marketing Director of guardian Malaysia.

 

Based on the 2023 Asia-Pacific Health Priority Survey, 79% of Malaysians are more health conscious, post-pandemic. Within it, 60% seek improvement in overall health. This is shown by the desire for healthier eating habits (52%), fitness (50%), mental wellness (50%) and improved immunity (49%).

 

“The survey results very clearly showed that Malaysians of all walks of life see the need for holistic wellbeing. We, at guardian Malaysia, hear you and we believe this month-long Get.Set.Glow! campaign is the right boost as you embark on your journey towards cultivating wellbeing,” Anna said.

 

The Get.Set.Glow! campaign has been inspired and guided by guardian Malaysia’s vision of ‘Nurturing MY Wellbeing’. Elaborating on what this means, Anna said:

 

“As a company, we believe in the holistic health and wellbeing approach that covers the needs of the mind, body and spirit so that Malaysians across all ages can be the best version of themselves to everyone around them.”

 

Jom ke Get.Set.Glow! Wellbeing Festival!

Aside from the in-store promotions and online wellbeing offerings, talks and services throughout September 2024, there will also be a Get.Set.Glow! Wellbeing Festival for folks living in the Klang Valley.

 

This wellbeing festival is a free public event that is scheduled from the 10th to the 16th of September 2024 at 1Utama Shopping Centre. It connects guardian Malaysia’s top curated wellbeing brands with the public, across the 5 areas of:

• Lifestyle & Wellbeing

• Health Booster

• Inner Beauty

• Aging Well

• Kids.

 

Beyond the latest wellness brands, this week-long festival will feature speakers and trainers across various areas of core training, yoga and mindfulness, nutrition and diet, etc. In total, there will be 28 wellbeing sessions encompassing workouts, workshops, classes and also a 3-km long Glow Walk.

 

Most of the activities will be held at the Oval Atrium of 1Utama from the 10th to the 16th of September 2024. Selected fitness and exercise programs will be held at Celebrity Fitness of 1Utama while the Secret Garden will serve as the Mindful Studio and the Central Park is the place for Glow Walk.

 

Get full details and sign-up for the different types of wellbeing programs at: https://www.heyjom.com/event/GuardianGet.Set.Glow!WellbeingFestival2024.

 

“Spaces are limited for the workout sessions, workshops and classes, so jom sign up now and let’s nurture our wellbeing starting with Get.Set.Glow!” concluded Anna.