From Food to Finance: Here Are Malaysian Podcasts You Should Listen To

The blind box craze is definitely far from over. 

Leading blind box toy company POP MART just opened their largest store in Malaysia to date at The Exchange TRX in Kuala Lumpur! Following their debut in the country in 2023, Pop Mart now has seven branches all over Malaysia, with three outlets in Kuala Lumpur. 

Known for their popular blind box collections and cute figurines, POP MART has become a go-to spot for collectors and a popular trend for all ages — at least one or two people you know already have their hands on a Labubu, a Dimoo, a Molly, and more! 

The outlet at The Exchange TRX takes up a whopping 2,876 square feet of space, complete with vibrant gradient LED lights, a THE MONSTERS photo zone, a Mystery Box Wall, a POP BEAN corner, and a section filled with MEGA versions of popular POP MART characters like Labubu, Hirono, and Molly. 

All the shelves were well stocked with every POP MART collectible you can imagine, and then some. 

POP MART also had some opening exclusive collectibles for fans, which were the LABUBU Shepherd figurine (RM130.80), LABUBU Hedgehog figure (RM130.80), and the HACIPUPU Little Gourd (RM479). Other opening exclusives included the first launch of the limited MOLLY MOZERO figure (RM1,939), with only 30 units available at the TRX branch, and a limited number of 100 units worldwide. 

Excited to see what’s in store at the largest POP MART in Malaysia? Head on over to The Exchange TRX to add more collectibles to your collection!

Follow POP MART Malaysia on their Facebook and Instagram pages for more product updates and launches!

Location: C.78.0, Concourse Level, The Exchange TRX, Persiaran TRX, Tun Razak Exchange, 55188 Kuala Lumpur

Opening Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM, Daily 

Big Bang fans, get ready to scream your hearts out — Daesung is bringing his powerhouse vocals and infectious energy to Malaysia this June!

Daesung, renowned for his soulful vocals, infectious personality, and sense of humor, will light up the stage on June 7, 2025, at the Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting as part of his highly anticipated D’s WAVE Asia tour.

This solo concert will kick off in Seoul on Apr. 26. The Malaysian stop is a new addition to the tour announced on Apr. 20 to the delight of many fans. The K-Pop singer will also visit six other cities: Ho Chi Minh City, Taipei, Hong Kong, Kobe, Macau, and Yokohama. For the full list of concert dates, see below: 

Fans attending can expect an unforgettable show filled with tracks from Daesung's recently released solo mini-album, D’s Wave, his first solo EP. Released in early April, the album showcases his emotive vocals and rock-fueled sound, a culmination of nearly two years of hard work. 

The EP features eight tracks, “Universe,” “Beautiful Life,” and “Fly Away,” among others.

Tickets for the concert will go on sale to the public at 4:26 PM (local time) on May 2, 2025, while exclusive pre-sale access for Resorts World Genting members begins on Apr. 30, 2025 at 4:26 PM (local time).

Prices range from RM388 to RM988 (VIP), with each person able to purchase a maximum of four tickets.

VIP ticket holders will enjoy special perks, including a chance to take a group photo with Daesung, exclusive signed posters, and access to a special one-of-a-kind send-off event, where lucky fans will be randomly plucked for these exclusive experiences.

For tickets and more information, visit etix on their website, or go to Resorts World Genting’s website. 

For more updates, visit Dream Factory Entertainment on their Facebook or Instagram. 

Malaysian Studio Ghibli fans, now’s your chance to watch one of the Japanese animation studio’s classic films. 

Popular Japanese animated fantasy film “Howl’s Moving Castle,” is set for a re-run in Malaysian cinemas! Regional film studio mm2 Entertainment will be bringing the beloved movie back to local Malaysian theaters such as TGV, GSC, MBO Cinemas, and Dadi Cinema this April 17, 2025. 

“Howl’s Moving Castle” will be re-released in its original Japanese audio, with English, Malay, and Chinese subtitles being shown on-screen. 

Hayao Miyazaki’s “Howl’s Moving Castle”

“Howl’s Moving Castle” is a Japanese animated fantasy film written and directed by celebrated Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki. The movie was first released in 2004, premiering at the 61st Venice International Film Festival on Sept. 5, 2004, and theatrically released on Nov. 20, 2004. 

The film is loosely based on the 1986 novel “Howl’s Moving Castle” by Diana Wynne Jones, and follows the story of Sophie, a young hat-maker who was cursed by the Witch of the Waste. She encounters a wizard named Howl and becomes entangled in his schemes and resistance in fighting a war. 

The film explores the themes of pacifism, critique of modern life, growing old, and of compassion. 

The film received universal acclaim across the years, with numerous critics praising Miyazaki’s storytelling, use of childlike wonder, and the themes discussed in the film. It has also become a cult favorite among cinephiles and is considered a “must-watch” film from Studio Ghibli. 

“Howl’s Moving Castle” in Malaysian Cinemas on April 17, 2025

Some local cinemas and the Japan Foundation in Malaysia are holding giveaway contests for the upcoming “Howl’s Moving Castle” re-run. Check out these posts to see what’s up! 

At the same time, Dadi Cinema is holding a “Howl’s Moving Castle” Fan Gathering on Apr. 16, 2025, at Dadi Cinema PKL at 8 PM. For RM45, fans will receive one random button badge, one random magnet, a pouch, and a towel. 

Relive the Studio Ghibli magic and watch “Howl’s Moving Castle” on the big screen. Follow mm2 Entertainment on their Facebook and Instagram pages for more information!

Kuala Lumpur, get buzzing — 𝘀𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗼𝗽𝘀 (7!!) is finally heading to Malaysia as part of their 2025 Asia Tour. 

The Okinawan J-Pop trio will make their highly anticipated debut at Zepp Kuala Lumpur on May 13, 2025, bringing their signature blend of infectious hooks and popular anime anthems to local fans for the first time!

Known for their catchy, emotionally charged tracks, 𝘀𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗼𝗽𝘀 (7!!) have made a lasting mark on anime culture, with hits such as "Lovers," the opening theme for "Naruto Shippuden," and "Orange," the beloved ending theme from "Your Lie in April." 

Since their debut in 2011 with the single "Fallin’ Love," the band — whose name is inspired by lead singer Nanae, as "7" is pronounced "Nana" in Japanese — has built a devoted following with their distinctive pop-rock sound.

For die-hard fans, the VIP experience offers exclusive perks, including early entry, a photo session with the band, and first access to the merch counter. 

Tickets are priced at RM290 for VIP, RM190 for General Admission, and RM290 for a Duo package (two GA tickets).

Tickets are available now on BookMyShow here.

For more information, visit 𝘀𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗼𝗽𝘀 (7!!) on their website, or Instagram and Facebook. 

Location: Zepp Kuala Lumpur, 2-01-02, Level B2, Entertainment Hub, BBCC, 2, Jalan Hang Tuah

Get ready to roll the dice! A new Monopoly game is in the works!

Tourism Malaysia is collaborating with game publisher Winning Moves to produce “Monopoly: Kuala Lumpur Edition.” The special edition board game is set to be released by the end of 2025 as part of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign. The game will be featuring some of Malaysia’s iconic attractions with a focus on the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, and aims to showcase a unique way for tourists to connect with the country’s rich cultural heritage. 

“We’re excited to partner with Monopoly to bring a piece of Kuala Lumpur to life through this interactive board game. Hence, this collaboration allows us to reach a wider audience and inspire future travelers by sharing the beauty and adventure of Kuala Lumpur in a completely new way,” said YBhg Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General of Tourism Malaysia.

This initiative is expected to increase tourists' interest in the country, igniting their curiosity for Kuala Lumpur’s diverse landscapes, lively culture, and dynamic communities. 

Through this collaboration, the country hopes to bring in more visitors in 2026 and motivate them to explore the city and discover all the exciting things it has to offer. 

Winning Moves also emphasized that the Kuala Lumpur edition will not only highlight the city’s famed landmarks but also celebrate the capital’s unique identity and vibrant energy. 

“We’re excited to work with local stakeholders to make this edition a true reflection of the city,” said Jennifer Lau, the Partnerships Manager at Winning Moves. 

With this release, Kuala Lumpur joins other cities like Bangkok, Tokyo, London, New York, Sydney, and Cape Town, which have had their own localized Monopoly editions.

The game is currently in the production stage, and businesses and organizations who are interested in being featured are welcome to reach out to Winning Moves. You may send your suggestions and requests to [email protected].

For updates, follow Tourism Malaysia on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram. 

Get ready to experience the magical world of one of the world’s most beloved magical girls ever. 

“Cardcaptor Sakura” is undeniably one of the world’s most beloved magical girls, and it had almost every young girl wanting to wear her battle costumes, own their own set of Clow Cards, and wield a Clow Staff. 

A popular and nostalgic figure in every girl’s childhood, everyone will now experience a part of Sakura’s magical world through the “Cardcaptor Sakura Exhibition – The Enchanted Museum.” 

For the first time ever in Southeast Asia, INCUBASE Studio will be bringing life to the world of Sakura Kinomoto and inviting fans from Malaysia and other countries to the upcoming “Cardcaptor Sakura Exhibition, The Enchanted Museum” at the INCUBASE Arena Malaysia, Level 2, Fahrenheit 88 in Kuala Lumpur from Apr. 12 to June 11, 2025.

This exhibition celebrates the beloved manga series that began serialization in 1996. The series has deeply resonated with audiences of all ages worldwide, capturing the hearts of many with its themes of love, courage, adventure, and more. 

Take on a journey of nostalgia and a refreshing take on Sakura’s adventures with Kero-chan, Tomoyo Daidouji, Syaoran Li, Touya Kinomoto, and Yukito Tsukishiro through this exhibition. 

Highlights of the Cardcaptor Sakura Exhibition – The Enchanted Museum

The exhibition has three main spaces – Flower Room, Giant Kero, and Maze of Original Drawings.

The Flower Room is a space where visitors can see the iconic flowers from the manga decorating the walls, transporting them into Sakura’s serene world. 

Ever wanted to see Kero-chan in real life? Now, you can with this Giant Kero space, and even take pictures with Sakura’s best guardian friend! 

At the Maze of Original Drawings, visitors and fans can see 200 original drawings from the manga and animation. 

Apart from the immersive spaces, the exhibition will feature exclusive merchandise, as well as a selection of goods imported directly from Japan!

Tickets to the exhibition are available here. Early Bird ticket prices run from Mar. 7 to Apr. 11, 2025, priced at RM80 (Combo Magic Pass, 2 Adult Tickets) and RM150 (Cardcaptor Sakura Exhibition Illustration Book Bundle). 

Normal ticket prices are priced at RM50 (Adult) and RM25 (Student/Child). 

Don’t miss out on this chance to experience Sakura’s world! Book your tickets from INCUTix, Ticket2U, and Klook.

For more updates and information, follow INCUBASE ARENA Malaysia’s Facebook and Instagram.  

Location: INCUBASE Arena Malaysia, Fahrenheit88, Kuala Lumpur

Dates: Apr. 12 to June 11, 2025

Opening Hours: 10 AM - 10 PM (Last Entry: 9 PM)

Film enthusiasts may have already heard of the new animated film currently dominating the charts, and guess what? You can soon catch it in movie theaters in Malaysia!

Cinema chain giants Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) and TGV Cinema just announced that the Chinese blockbuster “Ne Zha 2” will finally be released in Malaysia on Mar. 13. 

The sequel to the 2019 blockbuster premiered on the first day of the Lunar New Year and shattered box office records when it surpassed US$1 billion in real-time earnings — officially dethroning Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” as the highest-grossing animated film of all time!

“Both critically and commercially, ‘Ne Zha 2’ has been a massive success!” GSC said in a post. “On 2025.3.13, head to the cinemas and experience Nezha’s fiery legend.”

About ‘Ne Zha 2’: Cultural Implications and Impact

Written and directed by Sichuan-born Chinese animator and producer Yang Yu, also known as Jiaozi, the Ne Zha franchise follows Ne Zha and Ao Bing as they struggle against enemies after surviving the Heavenly Tribulation. The narrative of “Ne Zha 2” picks up from where the first film left off and is a mythological journey that weaves themes of friendship, destiny, and self-discovery.  

Both films are based on the 16th-century Chinese classical novel “The Investiture of the Gods” and integrate numerous elements from Chinese mythology, which makes them appealing pieces of cultural artifacts for both local and international viewers. 

Apart from its stunning animation quality and exciting storyline, “Ne Zha 2’s” success opened up opportunities for non-English language films. It marked a breakthrough in the internationalization of Chinese films, receiving high marks from critics and viewers alike. The film reportedly got an 8.2 rating on IMDb, with the US, Canada, and Australia giving the highest marks. Since its release in January, the film has grossed a total box office of 12.3 billion yuan (RM7.5 billion) in pre-sales and overseas earnings, making it the eighth-highest box office film worldwide, and the highest-grossing film in China.

Its massive success not only increased Chinese films’ exposure but also encouraged cultural exchange between China and other foreign countries. It contributed greatly to cultural diversity, showcasing the unique charm of Chinese culture to global audiences. The film also did a great job in reconstructing mythology to have a more modern take, using traditional elements and tales as metaphors to reflect social issues that enlighten the young generation in a fun and exciting way, and amping emotional resonance among its audience. 

It goes without saying that “Ne Zha 2” has reshaped global cinema culture, expanding possibilities for non-English language films in the industry and adding new colors to global cultural diversity. 

You can catch “Ne Zha 2” in a cinema near you on Mar. 13! Can’t wait till then? Why not join the advanced fan screening hosted by Encore Films Malaysia on Mar. 9? Schedules and tickets are already posted here.

Follow GSC on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates on screenings.