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Pop culture nerds are in for a treat as well-known entertainment company, Pop Mart, has recently opened its first store in Malaysia.
Located on the fifth floor of Pavillion Mall, the newly minted shop offers a wide array of merchandise, including DIMOO Mango Jelly, Labubu Shepherd Limited Edition 100%, SKULLPANDA Dark Maid Limited Edition 100%, and other famous collectibles.
With colour-changing light displays and visually appealing interiors, Pop Mart Malaysia is designed to attract young adults and millennials who have a passion for toy collecting.
“The opening of the Malaysian store means our business expansion in Southeast Asia has entered a new era. Malaysia has huge potential as a major market for us after Singapore,” Pop Mart President John Moon said.
“We can leverage on what we have done in Singapore to build things up in Malaysia, with the possibility of future expansion into other neighbouring countries,” he added.
Established in 2010, Pop Mart is a popular entertainment brand from China that focuses on the production of toy sets called “blind boxes.” These packages contain various toy parts that are concealed, adding an element of surprise for toy collectors.
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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.
“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!
mm2 Entertainment on their Facebook and Instagram pages for more information!
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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 popularanime 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, aphoto 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).
Location: Zepp Kuala Lumpur, 2-01-02, Level B2, Entertainment Hub, BBCC, 2, Jalan Hang Tuah
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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 Monopolyeditions.
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].
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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 mangaseries 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)
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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.
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Malaysian Pokémon fans, you shouldn’t miss out on this!
Malaysian courier service Pos Malaysia announced that they are collaborating with the Pokémon franchise last Feb. 21, 2025, with a special-edition Pokémon stamp folder set! The stamp series includes 10 stamps that look like actual Pokémon trading cards, four postcards, a Poké ball-shaped folder and envelope, and a fun pack and half playmat with Pikachu and Eevee.
The special set is priced at RM99, the designs include beloved Pokémon characters like Pikachu, first generation icons Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur, and newcomers Sprigatito, Fuecoco, Quaxly, Koraidon, and Miraidon.
Pre-orders for the set are already live, and can be ordered at any of Pos Malaysia’s Philatelic Bureaushere, and their 13 General Post Offices. The sets are estimated to ship out by Apr. 28, 2025 (as mentioned on the website).
What are you waiting for? Don’t miss out on this special edition Pokémon set and Poké-fy your stationery now!
Follow Pos Malaysia on their Facebook and Instagram for more information and future collabs!
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Marcos Kueh creates incredible textile art. The Sarawakian designer infuses symbolism, meaning, and story into one intentionally woven tapestry, showcasing vibrant colors, cultural motifs, and incredible skill. With some works measuring over six feet tall, Marcos’ art is awe-inspiring and ethereal, but more than that, they are political.
Hailing from the tri-national island of Borneo – which Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei currently share – Marcos has grown up with a consciousness of cultural identity. Though he is proudly Sarawakian, Marcos admitted that he’s had to challenge colonial ideas deeply ingrained in his community.
For example, despite the incredible mastery that Sarawakians are known for, Marcos shared that weaving is still stereotypically associated with being underprivileged or uneducated. And because his original background had been in graphic and textile design, he had only discovered the beauty of the loom during his internship in The Netherlands.
“[Working on the loom] shifted my perspective on what it means to connect with people who have woven since the beginning of civilization,” Marcos shared. “[I was able to fully appreciate] how they managed sublime tensions that are hard to describe and how they expressed creativity even in scarcity.”
Marcos with his work | Courtesy of Marcos Kueh
While Marcos currently spends most of his time in The Netherlands as a textile researcher, his current residency fails to hinder him from exploring the concept of home and culture. Sharp-eyed observers will note that a prominent and reoccurring motif in his works is the Dayakian mask. These are Bornean masks traditionally used to evoke spirits or gods for a variety of reasons, events, or performances.
“I love the idea that we will never be sure if the person wearing the mask is truly being possessed by spirits or they are merely performing,” Marcos added.
But while the stereotype of the Sarawakian people is perhaps linked to such tradition, the artist also clarifies that those in his community are modern and sophisticated. “When people think of Sarawak, I wonder if they still think of us as humans who live in jungles with our traditional costumes, dancing for harvest gods,” Marcos mused. “Are people open to the idea that our villages are empty and that many of us are working office jobs for tree lodging corporations or petrol stations, all for the benefit of capitalistic progress?”
Perhaps this is why Marcos forges on with his exploration of cultural identity through textile art – to show the world that Sarawakians, especially in today’s world, are sophisticated and multi-faceted.
“They are not just caricatures of culture for the entertainment of tourists,” Marcos pressed. “Sarawakians have the freedom to define their own narrative.”
Marcos' works depict incredible imagery | Courtesy of Marcos Kueh
The artist also shared that his passion is concurrently driven by personal reflections on colonialism and immigration. “As a person born in a developing country, I am very fascinated by the idea of where our inferiority complex comes from in relation to the idea of the West,” he mused. “Most of my artistic research relates to how we are being seen and how we perform towards those expectations.”
As such, Marcos’ work can be said to be inherently political. However, he does acknowledge that not everyone sees it as such. “The initial ideas I have for the work will translate differently to audiences. People who want to see the politics behind it will choose to see it in such a way. Some might add more complexity to the work based on lived experience. Others might just see pretty textiles,” he acknowledged. “The diverse ways that art is experienced add variety to it all.”
Marcos' works on display | Courtesy of Marcos Kueh
In 2025, Marcos looks forward to exploring more opportunities to deepen his research on the politics of textile production and immigration. As he knows, the textile industry was a major catalyst for the Industrial Revolution, which brought about mass migration. “As an immigrant myself working in Europe, I think there is much to connect and talk about,” he mused.
The artist also looks forward to seeing the art industry in his home country grow. While he acknowledged there are plenty of challenges to overcome, Marcos shared that he is optimistic about the courage artists in Malaysia have.
“My peers who are based in Malaysia may still find the art industry economically unstable; most of them do art part-time which does affect the quality of work. There’s also the issue of self-censorship due to the social climate of Malaysia,” he explained. “It takes plenty of courage to want to pick up art; fortunately, the public is now more open to visiting art shows. There are also plenty of new spaces emerging, which give more local artists a platform to participate.”
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