September 25, 2025

Anime Fans! A Limited Time Only Haikyuu!! Café Has Opened at Doko Koko!

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Doko Koko/Instagram

September 25, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Calling all “Haikyuu!!” fans in Kuala Lumpur!

Doko Koko is hosting a collaboration café with “Haikyuu!!” at the Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Centre (BBCC)! From Sept. 19, 2025 onwards, fans can enjoy a space inspired by scenes from the Japanese shōnen anime, as well as menu items that were based on some of the iconic duos from the series.

The interior of Doko Koko Cafe — Photo from Instagram/Doko Koko

Previously, Doko Koko had collaborated with other popular anime and games such as “My Hero Academia,” “Love and Deepspace,” Chinese donghua “Heaven’s Official Blessing,” and Virtual Youtuber Project “NIJISANJI EN.”

Fans can enjoy the “Hinata + Kageyama Chicken Curry Rice,” “Tsukishima + Yamaguchi Cheese Dome,” “Kuroo + Kenma Unagi Don,” “Oikawa + Iwaizumi Margherita,” “Bokuto + Akaashi Roasted Chicken,” “Ushijima + Tendo Farfalle,” “Miya Brothers Onigiri,” and more!

Food items from the Haikyuu!! collab cafe — Photo from Instagram/Doko Koko

All items will come with chibi versions of the duo and a free coaster to complement the meal and to make it even more enjoyable and IG-worthy! The food and beverages range from RM16 to RM38.

A “Haikyuu!!” shop will also be at the café, selling all kinds of exclusive merch and products. From notepads, badges, and keychains to apparel, water bottles, and stylish bags, fans can get these items from RM15 to RM189 and complete their merch collections!

Currently, the first batch of “Haikyuu!!” merch will be available from September to October 2025, with the second batch to be announced.

Don’t miss out and fly high with your fellow anime fans at Doko Koko Café!

Follow Doko Koko Café on Instagram for more information and updates!

Location: Doko Koko Café, Lalaport Bukit Bintang City Centre (BBCC), 2 Jalan Hang Tuah 55200 Kuala Lumpur

Opening Hours: Daily, from 10 AM to 10 PM

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September 18, 2025

METALVERSE to Join BABYMETAL on their World Tour in Kuala Lumpur

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by BABYMETAL, ACO Media

September 18, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

BABYMETAL fans are in for a historic night.

Japanesekawaii metal band BABYMETAL has announced that their mirror group, METALVERSE, will be joining them as the opening act for the “BABYMETAL WORLD TOUR 2025-2026 IN ASIA – LIVE IN KUALA LUMPUR” show on Oct. 6, 2025, at ZEPP Kuala Lumpur!

Official poster of BABYMETAL's show in Kuala Lumpur — Courtesy of BABYMETAL, Aco Media

The upcoming show marks METALVERSE’s first-ever performance outside of Japan. Formed in 2023, METALVERSE fuses idol elements with the power of heavy metal. Following their explosive debut at Japan’s SUMMER SONIC 2023, the group has since been recognized as the next powerhouse in the kawaii metal scene.

Meanwhile, BABYMETAL continues to break new ground worldwide. Their latest album, “Metal Forth,” debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 chart, further solidifying their unstoppable momentum and unique influence on the global scene. The group also recently performed at Bangkok’s SUMMER SONIC 2025, sharing the stage alongside Jeff Satur, EXO’s Chanyeol, BE:FIRST, Camilla Cabello, and Alicia Keys on the festival’s second day.

A photo of METALVERSE — Photo from Instagram/METALVERSE

BABYMETAL WORLD TOUR 2025-2026 IN ASIA – LIVE IN KUALA LUMPUR

Official seat plan of BABYMETAL's World Tour in Kuala Lumpur — Courtesy of ACO Media

Organized by CUNCUN Media, co-presented by LLAVE Music, E.A stars, 105 Live Music and JIAO Studio, and co-organized by Rock Promotions and ACO Media, the show is set for October 6, 2025, at 8 PM, at ZEPP Kuala Lumpur.

Tickets are now available via Ticket2U, and are priced from RM448 (Seated 2, Numbered Seating), RM548 (GA 1, Standing), RM698 (Seated 1, Numbered Seating), RM798 (VIP Standing), and RM8,800 (The Box, Max 10 pax).

VIP ticket holders will enjoy exclusive perks such as early entry, priority access to merchandise, a commemorative VIP pass and lanyard, an official show poster, and a chance to win one of three 10S electric guitars.

For more updates and information, follow ACO Media on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram.

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September 12, 2025

Japanese Film Festival 2025: A Cinematic Feast Unfolds Across Malaysia

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by The Japanese Foundation, Kuala Lumpur/Instagram

September 12, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

What if your next cultural escape doesn’t require a passport, and all it does is a movie ticket and a craving for stories that move the soul?

This September and October, the Japanese Film Festival 2025 (JFF) transforms Malaysia into a cinematic tasting room, serving up 13 films that explore food, memory, and the quiet magic of human connection. From the bustling heart of Klang Valley to the breezy charm of Kota Kinabalu, the festival rolls across five cities, inviting audiences to experience Japan through its most intimate lens of storytelling.

Official posters of Northern Food Story (left) and Sunset Sunrise (right) — Photo from Website/GSC Cinemas Malaysia

Organized by The Japan Foundation, Kuala Lumpur, JFF spans five cities, Klang Valley, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu, screening at GSC cinemas for just RM10 a ticket. From pandemic-era healing in Sunset Sunrise to the mouthwatering journeys of Northern Food Story and The Solitary Gourmet, it's a feast for both heart and palate.

There'll be a live Q&As with Tetsuya Uesugi — Photo from Instagram/The Japanese Foundation, Kuala Lumpur

The festival is an immersive experience beyond the featured films. The “Omakase Film Course” curates a cinematic tasting menu of culinary stories, while special screenings on Sept. 10, 2025 at GSC MyTown feature live Q&As with film DirectorTetsuya Uesugi. Film enthusiasts can also join a three-day filmmaking workshop led by Uesugi himself, diving into storytelling techniques and cross-cultural creativity.

For classic lovers, Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai returns in stunning 4K restoration, reminding us why Japanese cinema continues to inspire generations. And for fans of anime and youth drama, titles like Teasing Master Takagi-san and 366 Days round out a diverse lineup.

JFF also introduces a Stamp Rally that encourages the audience to watch more and win more. Simply collect stamps for each film and redeem exclusive gifts, with bonus prizes for attending partner festivals.

As a foodie, a film lover, or just someone curious about Japan’s cultural heartbeat, JFF is your alternative passport to a journey that offers cinematic and cultural richness.

Visit JFF’s official website and GSC cinemas’ website for screening schedules, program, and ticket info. Also, follow The Japanese Foundation, Kuala Lumpur on Instagram and Facebook to learn more.

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September 11, 2025

Get Your Paddles Ready! The Paramount Cup 2025 is Set for this October 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Paramount Cup 2025/Instagram

September 11, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Attention all pickleball players and enthusiasts!

The Paramount Cup 2025 is taking over the PLAYA Racquet Club @ PARC Subang from Oct. 23 to 26, 2025! Organized by PLAYA Racquet Club and hosted by Paramount Property, this world-class, four-day tournament is anticipated to draw more than 820 players — a mix of juniors, adults, and seniors, local and international — for a celebration of pickleball, lifestyle, and community.

With 13 competition courts and a Grandstand Court designed for spectators all around, fans can expect non-stop action from the first serve to the championship point. The grand prize? A RM112,500 Prize Pool — one of the largest in Malaysia.

Apart from the high-energy competition, fan experiences will be available for everyone to join in, including exhibitions and clinics with pro pickleball players.

Photos of men cheering and a woman playing pickleball — Photos from Instagram/Paramount Cup 2025

Players can join across three skill divisions: Novice (<3.0), Intermediate Plus (<3.99), and Open (4.0+), with categories ranging from men’s and women’s doubles, mixed doubles, and men’s singles. The tournament format kicks off with a round-robin group play before trimming down to single elimination knockouts.

Here’s the line-up for the four-day tournament:

Day 1: Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025
- Open (4.0+): 45+ Men’s Doubles
- Intermediate Plus: (<3.99): 19+ Women’s Doubles
- Open (4.0+): 45+ Mixed Doubles
- Exhibition & Clinics with the Stars
Day 2: Friday, Oct. 24, 2025
- Novice (<3.00): 19+ Women’s Doubles
- Novice (<3.00): 19+ Men’s Doubles
- Intermediate Plus (<3.99): 35+ Women’s Doubles
- Open (4.0+): 19+ Men’s Singles
- Intermediate Plus (<3.99): 35+ Men’s Doubles
Day 3: Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
- Intermediate Plus (<3.99): 19+ Men’s Doubles
- Open (4.0+): 19+ Women’s Doubles
- Open (4.0+): 19+ Men’s Doubles
- Open (4.0+): 35+ Men’s Doubles
Day 4: Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025
- Novice (<3.00): 19+ Mixed Doubles
- Intermediate Plus (<3.99): 35+ Mixed Doubles
- Open (4.0+): 35+ Mixed Doubles
- Open (4.0+): 19+ Mixed Doubles
- Intermediate Plus (<3.99): 19+ Mixed Doubles

Registrations are now open via Baseline, with a fee of RM160 per player per category. An early bird discount of 15% can be used for registrations on or before Sept. 15, 2025!

With all these at stake, the Paramount Cup 2025 is more than just a tournament; it’s a statement and the pickleball moment for Malaysia.

For more information and updates, follow the PLAYA Racquet Club on Facebook and Instagram, and the Paramount Cup 2025 on Instagram.

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September 08, 2025

ZEROBASEONE Brings HERE&NOW World Tour to Kuala Lumpur This November

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by ZEROBASEONE/Instagram

September 08, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Kuala Lumpur is about to get loud and luminous. ZEROBASEONE, the breakout K-Pop group that’s been setting stages ablaze across the globe, is bringing their 2025 world tour"HERE&NOW" to Malaysia.

Official poster of 'HERE&NOW' — Courtesy of bookmyshow

Mark your calendars: on Nov. 8, 2025, the IDEA LIVE ARENA will host an evening of high-voltage performances, synchronized choreography, and pure fan euphoria. The show kicks off at 5 PM, and if past concerts are any indication, it’ll be a spectacle that leaves no heart untouched.

If you haven’t heard of ZEROBASEONE yet, you should know this nine-member K-Pop group burst onto the scene through the survival show Boys Planet, and ever since, they’ve been rewriting the rules of rookie success.

ZEROBASEONE at a previous show — Photo from Instagram/ZEROBASEONE

With their sleek choreography, genre-blending tracks, and magnetic stage presence, ZEROBASEONE, often shortened to ZB1, has quickly become a global name. Their fandom, known as ZEROSE, spans continents, and their debut EP shattered records, proving they’re shaping the K-Pop wave.

Tickets are set to go fast. While registered fanclub members got access to an exclusive pre-sale on Sept. 8, 2025, general sales open Sept. 9 at 12 PM MYT on both BookMyShow and Fantopia, so mark your calendars and set your alarms.

Whether you’re a longtime ZEROSE or just discovering the magic of ZB1, this is your chance to witness the group’s explosive energy live.

For updates and behind-the-scenes peeks, follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Formerly Twitter).

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September 04, 2025

Red Velvet’s Wendy Announces Dates for her First World Tour “W:EALIVE”

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by WENDY/X (Formerly Twitter)

September 04, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

ReVeluvs! Are you ready to see Wendy perform solo for the first time?

Red Velvet’s Wendy is set to go on her first world tour, “W:EALIVE,” this September, taking her across cities in the United States and Asia. Her tour follows the release of her third mini album, “Cerulean Verge,” on Sept. 10, 2025.

Wendy will kick off her tour with a two-day concert at the Jangchung Arena in Seoul from Sept. 20 to 21, 2025, which will be followed by Taiwan, Hong Kong, and a two-day concert in Tokyo in October. She will then go to the United States and perform in seven cities, before heading back to Asia to perform in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Macau, before wrapping up her tour in Manila in January 2026.

“W:EALIVE” 2025 WENDY 1st World Tour in Asia

Official tour poster for WENDY — Official poster of WENDY's "W:EALIVE" World Tour | Photo from X (Formerly Twitter)/WENDY

Seoul, South Korea (Jangchung Arena): Sept. 20 to 21, 2025
Taipei, Taiwan (New Taipei City Exhibition Hall): Oct. 3, 2025
Hong Kong (AXA Dreamland, Go Park, Sai Sha): Oct. 5, 2025
Tokyo, Japan: Oct. 22 to 23, 2025
Bangkok, Thailand: Nov. 13, 2025
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: Dec. 20, 2025
Macau, People’s Republic of China: Jan. 10, 2026
Manila, Philippines: Jan. 17, 2026

Wendy’s Kuala Lumpur stop will be handled by FriedRice Entertainment. More details, such as the venue and ticketing details, will be available soon. Follow FriedRice Entertainment on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for more updates!

Photos from WENDY's teasers for her upcoming EP — Photo from X (Formerly Twitter)/WENDY

Wendy debuted under SM Entertainment as a member of K-pop girl group Red Velvet in 2014, with members Irene, Seulgi, Joy. Member Yeri joined in March 2015. As part of the group, she has released hits like “Ice Cream Cake,” “Red Flavor,” “Dumb Dumb,” “Russian Roulette,” “Bad Boy,” “Psycho,” “Feel My Rhythm,” and “Cosmic.”

She debuted as a solo artist in April 2021 with her EP “Like Water,” consisting of five songs, including the title track of the same name. In 2024, she released her second EP, “Wish You Hell,” with its lead single of the same name.

Her other solo activities included being the DJ host of the radio show “Wendy’s Youngstreet” from 2021 to 2023, and her theatre debut as “I” in the 10th Anniversary production of “Rebecca.”

For more updates, follow WENDY on her personal Instagram and her official social media accounts on X (Formerly Twitter) and Instagram.

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August 31, 2025

R&B Legend Babyface Returns to Asia After a Decade: Here’s What to Expect

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Babyface/Instagram

August 31, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

It’s official: R&B legend Babyface is heading back to Asia for the first time in over ten years, and fans are in for a soulful treat. The 13-time Grammy winner will perform three exclusive shows, with Kuala Lumpur as the final stop, this October as part of his 2025 Asia Tour, bringing his timeless hits and signature smooth energy to the region.

The Asia Tour's official poster — Photo from Instagram/Babyface

The tour kicks off in Jakarta on Oct. 25, followed by Manila on Oct. 27, and wraps up in Kuala Lumpur on Oct. 30. Each concert promises a full-scale production featuring a live band, backing dancers, vocalists, and a setlist packed with more than two dozen of his chart-topping classics.

Fresh off sold-out shows in Las Vegas and across the U.S., Babyface is ready to reconnect with his Asian fanbase. “The energy from the fans just lifts me to a new level — their excitement is contagious, and I can’t wait to bring that same vibe to Asia,” he shared in the official announcement.

Babyface and mates in 1993 — Photo from Instagram/Babyface

Ticketing for the Kuala Lumpur concert at Idea Live Arena has already opened. Prices range from RM298 (Bronze) to RM1,288 (VIP Meet & Greet), which includes a Diamond-category seat, exclusive laminate, and a post-show group photo with Babyface. Tickets are available via GoLive Asia’s event page, and fans are advised to purchase only through official channels to avoid cancellations or entry refusal.

Expect to hear beloved tracks like “Whip Appeal,” “Every Time I Close My Eyes,” and “When Can I See You,” along with deep cuts and fan favorites that span his decades-long career. Whether you grew up with his music or discovered it through modern R&B playlists, this tour is a rare chance to experience the legend live.

Babyface and his band — Photo from Instagram/Babyface

With just three stops on the itinerary, this tour is intimate, exclusive, and not to be missed. If you’ve ever wanted to hear the soundtrack of your life performed by the man himself, October is your moment.

Don’t forget to follow Babyface on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Formerly Twitter) for everything about her, and be sure to listen to her music on Spotify whenever you get to.

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August 22, 2025

Islamic Tourism Month Returns to Malaysia For its Most Exciting Edition Yet

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Islamic Tourism Month/Instagram

August 22, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Islamic Tourism Month (ITM) is back for its fourth and most exciting edition yet!

Running from Aug. 18 to Sept. 30, 2025, and organized by the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), the month-long event spotlights the beauty, diversity, and warmth of Malaysia as a leading Muslim-friendly destination.

This year’s campaign features eight vibrant categories — from Mosque Open Day, Accommodation, Travel Packages, Spa, Wellness and Healthcare, Food and Beverages, Events and Exhibitions, Shopping and Retail, to Tourism Products and Theme Parks — offering a nationwide celebration of inclusive and meaningful experiences that defines Malaysian tourism.

One of the highlights of ITM 2025 is Mosque Open Day, where selected mosques across the country will hold guided tours, exhibitions, and community-driven and cultural activities designed to foster understanding, inclusivity, and cultural exchange.

This launch unfolds as Malaysia once again secures the top spot at the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), driven by accessible prayer facilities, inclusive travel experiences, availability of Halal food, and progressive tourism policies.

Poster for the ITM TikTok Challenge — Photo from Instagram/Islamic Tourism Month

Prizes for the ITM TikTok Challenge — Photo from Instagram/Islamic Tourism Month

For a digital twist, the ITM TikTok Challenge is also making a return for this year! Content creators are invited to explore ITM partner destinations and share their experiences using the hashtag #ExperienceITM2025. In just three simple steps: Visit, Video, and Viral, participants will get the chance to win exciting prizes worth more than RM50,000, including a holiday package to Xi’an, China, and an exclusive sailing getaway with AroyaCruises.

For more information and updates, follow the Islamic Tourism Month on Facebook and Instagram.

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August 05, 2025

The Raintown Film Festival Returns for its 2nd Edition this September 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Raintown Film Festival

August 05, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

The Raintown Film Festival is making a comeback for its second year from Sept. 12 to 14, 2025, at Paragon Cinema, Taiping Mall. Free and open for all, the three-day film festival invites audiences to explore Taiping’s charm through a line-up of film screenings, film talks, and guided tours. Pre-registration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.

Two students in a store — Still from "The Gathering" | Courtesy of Raintown Film Festival

A man surrounded by greenery — Still from "The Game" | Courtesy of Raintown Film Festival

Different men dressed in different clothes in the same style — Still from "Rock" | Courtesy of Raintown Film Festival

A man walking on a bridge — Still from "The Pirate & The Emperor Ship" | Courtesy of Raintown Film Festival

Continuing its mission to highlight Taiping’s rich landscape, history, and cultural narratives, this year’s program features four feature films shot in and around Taiping: “The Gathering,” produced by Jin Ong and stars Jack Tan, beautifully captures the essence of Taiping town; “The Game,” directed by Felix Tan, was shot entirely in Bukit Larut; A 20th anniversary screening of the late Mamat Khalid’s classic, “Rock”; and the story of the notorious Perak “Pirate King” Tan Lian Lay, “The Pirate & The Emperor Ship.”

The festival will also present the top 10 short films from this year’s Raintown Short Film Festival, chosen from 103 submissions exploring “rain” across a variety of genres. Seven awards will be presented during the festival’s closing night, including Best Short Film, Jury Prize, and Best Director.

Beyond the screen, visitors can join the special talk “Capturing the Memories of Aulong Lama” with writer Uthaya Sankar SB, who documents memories from the 1970s to 1990s through his camera. Professor Teoh Chee Keong will lead a three-hour walking tour ofTaiping, uncovering little-known stories and hidden corners of Taiping.

“Taiping is often remembered for its 33 famous ‘firsts,’ but there is so much more to this town, including its folk tales, history, and arts and cultural events,” explained festival founder Jacky Yeap. “With the efforts of local communities and support from the government, Taiping is definitely more than just a travel destination. It is a town rich in humanity and cultural depth.”

The Raintown Film Festival’s 2nd edition is made possible through the support of key public and private partners, with the West Coast Expressway (WCE) joining as a strategic partner. WCE CEO Lyndon Alfred Felix shared, “Taiping is a town rich in stories, culture, and creative spirit. Supporting the Raintown Film Festival is one way we celebrate the heritage of the communities along our expressway.”

The 2nd Raintown Film Festival is also supported by the Deputy Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Taiping YB Wong Kah Who, Perak EXCO YB The Kok Lim, Pokok Assam Assemblyman YB Ong Seng Guan, and Dana Kreatif Perak Port Ipoh, alongside the ArtsFAS programme by Yayasan Hasanah, Sustainable Tourism Malaysia, and other sponsors and partners.

For more information and updates, follow Raintown Film Festival on Facebook. Pre-register and redeem your tickets through the website here.

Raintown Film Festival 2025

Location: Paragon Cinema, Taiping Mall, Jalan Tupai 34000 Taiping Perak

When: Sept. 12 to 14, 2025

Admission: Free, but pre-registration is encouraged.

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