In this first episode, seasoned newsmen Datuk Zainul Ariffin Mohamed Isa, Datuk “Rocky” Ahirudin Attan and Terence Fernandez discuss the latest apparent trend of politicians challenging each other to public debates, the hypocrisy of Malaysia’s outrage over Singapore’s capital punishment stance and the end of the Movement Control Order for Malaysians.

The Good, The Bad & The Ugly

Are your 20s a never-ending existential crisis? When your life comes to a screeching halt and all that remains to comfort you are memories of your carefree days in highschool and university, do you still constantly question your choices? 

There really is no manual to adulthood. So the question is: how do we figure out what we are meant to do and regain our sense of purpose in life? 

On the first episode of Projek Adulting with Sara Mack Lubis and Ryan Lam, guest Amalina Kamal shares her struggles and experiences after ‘conquering’ her 20s, making serious career choices, understanding that personal happiness comes first, and answers the question of whether she is truly ‘thirty, flirty and thriving’...

A new podcast from two 20-somethings trying to navigate the trials and tribulations of adulthood, because who actually knows what they are doing anyway? 

Projek Adulting is presented by Sara Mack Lubis and Ryan Lam
Sound engineered by Ethan Phoon

Projek Adulting - What Am I Doing With My Life - Episode 1

The podcast that proves our common ‘everymind’ - and that everything Shazmin is thinking, you’re thinking, too. 

The Vibe’s Culture & Lifestyle Editor Shazmin Shamsuddin and Clinical Psychologist Dr Joel Low tackle mental health issues we’re all too familiar with and dish out practical advice on how to handle life with challenges that affect our head and heart space and our ability to function at our optimal best.

In this first episode of Inside Shazmin’s Head, we identify the signs that you may have issues with your mental health. Is it just stress? Is anxiety getting you in a state where you cannot function? Is feeling ‘dead inside’ a symptom of unresolved depression - and can you resolve apathy and depression without professional help?

Private mental healthcare, while readily available and convenient, is for many, out of reach. Dr Joel Low gives us some suggestions on where to look for subsidised mental health help in Malaysia, and other practical tips on managing your daily mental state.

Dr. Joel Low is a Clinical Psychologist and Director at The Mind Psychological Services & Training, and an exco member of the MSCP. He specialises in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and works with a wide range of clients to help them reach their goals. 

If you would like to reach us, with questions, comments or a problem you’d like us to discuss, send us an email at: insideshazminshead.podio@gmail.com

Produced by Shazmin Shamsuddin and Sound Engineered by Ethan Phoon.

Inside Shazmin's Head : Episode 1 - Reclaiming Your Mental Health

Dalam episod pertama, hos pengANTARA iaitu  Shah dan Elly akan bercerita tentang kemeriahan konsert-konsert berskala besar yang diadakan sepanjang bulan Jun ini. 
Menariknya, konsert-konsert mega ini menyaksikan dominasi artis-artis senior berpengaruh di dalam industri muzik tanah air seperti Search, Datuk Hattan dan U.K’s. 

Namun, Aina Abdul telah mengambil langkah berani untuk menganjurkan konsert solonya sendiri pada hujung bulan Jun dan episod pertama ini juga turut menyentuh tentang kontroversi yang melanda penyanyi muda baharu ini tentang isu pakaiannya yang dikatakan menyerupai seorang rahib. 

Antara isu yang turut dibangkit di dalam program ini adalah kes saman Johnny Depp ke atas bekas isterinya Amber Heard. Selepas enam minggu melalui perbicaraan mahkamah yang menjadi tumpuan dunia, akhirnya Johnny Depp diisytiharkan menang.

PenganTARA Episode 1 - Konsert Dan Pembicaraan Johnny Depp dengan Amber Heard

Admit it or not, we sometimes entertain ideas about what it would be like to pack our bags and seek our fortunes in foreign lands. Most of us, if we don’t make that decision in our 20s, never find the courage to do it at all.

Christina Chelliah was a 30 year old corporate lawyer and former beauty queen 
(2002 Miss Tourism World Malaysia and first runner-up of the 2002 Miss Universe Malaysia) when she decided to embark on what she called a ‘kamikaze’ mission. With four suitcases and just USD 1500 in her pocket, she emigrated to the United States and forged her future on sheer grit and tenacity in a city that never sleeps.

On this episode of Beyond Breakfast, this self-confessed hustler shares her journey - from sharing a small room with her brother in New York City whilst hustling for any gig that would sustain herself, to passing the New York Bar and then the Qualifying Lawyer Exams for Admission to the Roll of Solicitors in England and Wales (she is expected to be admitted to the Bar in the UK this summer), making her a triple-qualified attorney admitted on three continents. And in March this year, Christina was sworn in to serve as a Special Master to the Supreme Court of New York.

We ask: is the grass really greener on the other side? Would she have achieved this same level of success had she opted to stay in Malaysia? And - is one ever too old to start over somewhere new?

Produced by Shazmin Shamsuddin
Recorded and Edited by Ethan Phoon

Beyond Breakfast with Shazmin Shamsuddin - Christina Chelliah

It is summertime, which means the latest movies are hitting cinemas worldwide. Datuk Kamil and Manvir take a look at the processes of making movies in Malaysia and compare them with filmmaking countries like South Korea, Australia and India.

What does it take for our local filmmakers to get their movies made and to played in local cinemas? Both funding and censorship in other nations seem simpler to navigate. Does this point to some bias against local talent or archaic ideas that no longer fly in the current industry?

As we constantly seek to promote and market local films and export them to showcase the best of Malaysian talent, are we not utilising the latest innovative ideas of other more successful nations?

As local filmmakers need support and expertise to reach greater heights, this episode delves a little deeper into what is needed to make this happen.

Edited and Produced by Ethan Phoon

Silver Screens & Guitar Strings : Episode 3 - Is it harder to make movies in Malaysia?

Kami bicarakan rungutan Anas Tahir, adik penyanyi tersohor Faizal Tahir serta filem komedi tempatan 3 Janda yang mendapat banyak komen positif. Tidak ketinggalan keterujaan penonton menantikan filem terbaharu Syamsul Yusof mengenai pejuang sejarah negara Mat Kilau dan juga kisah rumah tangganya. Selamat mendengar dan moga terhibur!
Diedit dan disusun oleh Ethan Phoon.

PenganTARA Episod 2 – 3 Janda,  Anas Tahir Dan Mat Kilau

Less than formal articulation of comments, lack of context may have led to misunderstanding


KUALA LUMPUR – “Pay your dues, isn’t it? If we want to pardon, they have to go through the process, he has to go inside first.”

These are the exact words uttered by Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan in an interview by Asia Times, whose reporting on what he said was heavily disputed by the Umno deputy president.

The news agency had reported Mohamad, popularly known as Tok Mat, as saying that former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak should go to jail for his supposed part in the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal.

Mohamad has since refuted this. “That is inaccurate. What I said was that Najib must get a fair trial,” he had said to The Vibes.

“If he (Najib) is found guilty, then he is guilty, but he must be judged fairly,” he said in his denial.

In an unprecedented move, the journalist who conducted the interview and co-authored the report, Nick Kochan, released the full audio file of his conversation with Mohamad, proposing that readers judge what was really said for themselves.

For better context, this is the verbatim transcript of the contentious part of the interview:

Kochan: Will you be sorry if Mr Najib goes to jail?

Mohamad: Of course as a friend I feel sorry, but everybody has to go, you have to face whatever.

Kochan: Pay your dues?

Mohamad: Pay your dues, isn’t it? If we want to pardon, they have to go through the process, he has to go inside first.

(The above line was quoted by Asia Times as follows: “Everybody has to pay their dues. But if we want to pardon, he (Najib) has to go through the process. He’ll have to go inside first.”)

You cannot pardon him before he…what do you call, before you go through the process, you know? That is wrong, that is absolutely wrong.

Kochan: To be pardoned without the process?

Mohamad: Yes.

Based on the above, it is likely that there was a misunderstanding due to the casual manner in which the comments were exchanged in the interview.

Mohamad seems to be explaining the pardon process in general, which requires a person to be convicted and incarcerated before he or she can be granted a pardon – rather than stating that Najib should be jailed outright.

He remarks that the due process for a pardon cannot be breached by anyone, including Najib, arguing that everyone has to go through the proper process and “pay their dues”.

The interviewer, in this case, was probably handicapped in comprehending Mohamad’s articulation on the pardon process. With no further clarification offered, he may have also been hampered by his lack of familiarity with the subject matter.

To Kochan’s credit, he gave Mohamad a platform to air his views.

The Asia Times report earlier this week was titled “Umno’s No 2 thinks Najib should go to jail”.

It quoted Mohamad as saying that the root of the nation’s troubling financial situation stemmed from Umno – primarily under the tenure of Najib as president – failing to “tell the truth” on 1MDB.

He was also reported as saying that Najib should not expect special treatment if he is convicted.

“The court is the place where you can prove whether you’re innocent or not. He didn’t prove it. He couldn’t prove it.

“Everybody has to pay their dues. But if we want to pardon, he (Najib) has to go through the process…He’ll have to go inside first,” Mohamad was quoted as saying.

Mohamad later clarified that Najib, like any other Malaysian, is accorded the right to be judged fairly within the justice system and must go through the process to prove his innocence. –  The Vibes, July 7, 2022

Najib’s jail time: Tok Mat’s exact words to Asia Times

In April this year, Shazmin Shamsuddin sat down with Malaysia’s first Penthouse magazine covergirl, adult entertainer and at 18.6 million followers on Instagram alone, the biggest social media influencer in Malaysia.

Ms Pui Yi is a brand. And every strong brand has an incredible backstory. 
When private photos of hers she claimed were hijacked led to sordid blackmail, she took that crisis in hand despite her failing mental health and plotted her own destiny. Her steely resolve to own that humiliation turned it into a ‘power’ move.

From her coy social media beginnings, she went on to cultivate a sultry persona online which has brought her a massive cult-like following on OnlyFans and all her various social media. 

But who is Ms Pui Yi, really? A honeyed sexpot who knows how to manipulate social media - or a hopeless romantic who craves the normal things like a solid relationship and future children? Here we discover the real person behind the persona. Her values may surprise you.

Recorded and Edited by Ethan Phoon

Beyond Breakfast with Shazmin Shamsuddin - revisiting the irrepressible Ms PuiYi

Minggu ini sedikit berbeza kerana PenganTARA memfokuskan  tentang kemunculan Showcase Awie Romantika pada 20 Ogos susulan daripada kejayaan Konsert Awie Romantika di Shah Alam pada 2020.
 
Sekali lagi Awie memilih bekas kekasih dan bekas tunangannya, Erra Fazira sebagai pasangannya di dalam konsert itu.  Mengapa Awie memilih Erra? Adakah kerana lampu hijau yang diterimanya daripada sang isteri untuk mengahwini bekas ratu cantik ini?
 
Selain itu, selepas 10 tahun tidak menjejaki dan membuat persembahan di Sarawak, Wings kembali mengepak di Bumi Kenyalang itu menerusi Showcase One Night Only Live IN Kuching pada 27 Ogos.

Dirakam dan disunting oleh Ethan Phoon

PenganTARA Episod 6 - Wings Kembali Mengepak Dan Awie Beromantika Lagi Dengan Erra Fazira

At a relatively young age of 45, Anthony Loke Siew Fook has already had the honour of serving as a multiple-term lawmaker, being part of a winning coalition that handed Barisan Nasional its first defeat and later appointed to head the Transport Ministry. 

Now entrusted to lead one of the country's biggest political parties as secretary-general, the Seremban MP has much to look forward to.   

In this week's instalment, Loke shares with The Vibes his vision for DAP and takes a look back at his time in cabinet and what he would do differently if he is still minister. 

More pertinently, the opposition lawmaker breaks down on his view about the upcoming general election, due in a year's time. 

Does Pakatan Harapan have a chance of securing victory? Is the party ready to face the looming poll? Will any single coalition be able to form the government? 
Also, Loke opens up on life outside politics, what made him become a politician and his mastery of Bahasa Malaysia. 

Presented by PETRA News chief executive Datuk Zainul Ariffin Mohamed Isa, executive director Datuk Ahirudin Attan (better known as Rocky Bru) and editor-in-chief Terence Fernandez

Produced by Shazmin Shamsuddin and sound engineered by Ethan Phoon

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly – Ep 9: Loke on GE15, vision for DAP and his time in govt

The president of the Malaysian Bar and chairman of the Bar Council, Karen Cheah, is certainly not one to be cowed by cross-examination – even if it is under verbal fire by three top veterans from the news industry.

Indeed, in an upfront no-holds-barred tête-à-tête with The Vibes’ bosses, she takes on a host of contentious current issues – on the Malaysian judiciary, rogue lawyers, low CLP passing rate, the IPCMC, and the upcoming general election.

The trio go in straight with the hard question on the perception that the Bar Council is not apolitical and appears to favour one side of the political divide.

During the Bar’s Walk for Judicial Independence on June 17, some civil society figures and political personalities appeared to have “hijacked” the event for their own agenda. Cheah offers her take on this.

The police had prevented the participants from marching to Parliament, and the Bar Council plans to take legal action on this. 

Cheah addresses the incident,  and the possible breach of statutory duty under the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 and breach of constitutional right under Article 10. There is also the issue of probable false imprisonment and wrongful confinement as the lawyers were not allowed to move out of the carpark at Padang Merbok where they had gathered.

Cheah also sheds light on the constitutional perspective on Justice Datuk Mohd Nazlan Mohd Ghazali’s recent case.

Should Nazlan have recused himself from the SRC International trial in which he found former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak guilty of graft-related charges? This has been raised especially in view of an investigation instituted later by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on him.

What is Cheah’s stance on MACC disclosing the name of a sitting judge it is investigating while he or she is hearing cases? What about the perception that MACC is in itself a tainted institution, with its own motivations being questionable? 

The conduct of lawyers themselves – in orchestrating delays, manipulating the system and time wasting – is also discussed. 
The Malaysian Bar has for long been championing the Independent Police Complaints and. Misconduct Commission (IPCMC), a separate independent body that oversees the misconduct of police authorities. However, what the country saw was a watered down Independent Police Conduct Commission (IPCC) bill being passed in the Dewan Rakyat on June 26.

Critics have noted that the legislation does not have the bite to punish rogue policemen, and can only make recommendations. This results in an environment where the authorities can go around acting with impunity, which is something the Bar intends to address.

Finally, the panel discusses the future of the legal profession in Malaysia and the legacy Cheah hopes to leave behind. – The Vibes, August 6, 2022

Presented by Petra News chief executive Datuk Zainul Ariffin Mohamed Isa, executive director Datuk Ahirudin Attan (better known as Rocky Bru) and editor-in-chief Terence Fernandez

Produced by Shazmin Shamsuddin and sound engineered by Ethan Phoon.

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly – Episode 11: Karen Cheah on raising the bar

On ‘clean’ comedy, covid and Crackhouse

Malaysian stand-up comedian, TikToker, and proud Chindian, Gajen Nad, will be hitting stages in Penang and Kuala Lumpur this month with his brand new comedy special — Professional Mixed Breed. 

During the COVID-19 lockdowns, Gajen became a familiar face at corporate events, entertaining audiences on live virtual platforms, while successfully reinventing himself as a content creator on social media and amassing millions of views.

Now, with live events back on the menu, Gajen is finally able to do what his fans love most —﻿ stand-up comedy.

Freshly out of his covid sick bed, Gajen shares his experience cutting his teeth on the open mic scene as an upstart comic, his take on what went down at The Crackhouse Comedy Club, and what he thinks the state of comedy is in Malaysia today.

Are Malaysian comedians afraid to be funny? Have we heard it all? Why does ‘lawak bodoh’ appeal to so many?

Gajen Nad is set to perform 'Professional Mixed Breed' on August 12 and 13 in Penang, and August 26 and 27 in Kuala Lumpur. Tickets available on all his socials.

Recorded and Produced by Ethan Phoon

Beyond Breakfast with Shazmin Shamsuddin - Gajen Nad

Datuk Kamil and Manvir discuss who they think is the best guitarist in the world. As they share their all time favourites, names like Buddy Guy, Mark Knopfler and the incomparable Jimi Hendrix are mentioned amongst other greats. 

They make a call to listeners to share their favourite choices and mention their local watering hole that features great talents. Spots like Merdekarya are mentioned where budding musical talents are able to showcase their abilities for all to experience.

While listening here, also do check out Ernie Isley's Midnight Breeze and Deep Purple's Child in Time to really understand the emotions one can get from a guitar god.

Like always, feedback is welcome on twitter @manvirvictor as you enjoy this musical journey.

Edited and Produced by Ethan Phoon

SSGS Episode 9 - Guitar Gods - Our Picks!

Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has many claims to fame - a former student leader, a maverick politician who left UMNO, then PKR, then rebranded a small political party, KITA, only to resign from the outfit 2 years later. He joined DAP in 2017 but left in 2020 before arriving full circle at UMNO’s door again in August this year.

He was previously a Senator in the Dewan Negara, the upper chamber of Parliament.

He also founded the largest law firm in the country and was a former law minister in Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s cabinet.
But his most recent claim to fame was briefly representing former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak during the latter’s SRC International final appeal hearing.

In this candid conversation with the Vibes’ senior team, Zaid talks about defending the fundamental principles of Article 5 - that every citizen is entitled to effective counsel. 

He expresses in depth his disappointment in not being afforded the opportunity to submit new evidence which was supported by MACC’s investigations and statements by Maybank officials which supported their case.

Touching on his quarrel with the Bar Council, Zaid asserts that political influence and interference in our institutions have led to pervasive public distrust in the system.

Zaid shares his thoughts on young Malaysians and how they need to spend less time criticising people on social media and more time ‘doing’ something to bring positive change in society. 

On re-joining UMNO, Zaid says that “Although I have moved from place to place, I’ve always been loyal to what I believe in.” But does he believe that UMNO in 2022 is capable of change? Listen to The Good, The Bad and The Ugly to find out. 
 
Presented by Petra News chief executive Datuk Zainul Ariffin Mohamed Isa, executive director Datuk Ahirudin Attan (better known as Rocky Bru) and editor-in-chief Terence Fernandez

Produced by Shazmin Shamsuddin and sound engineered by Ethan Phoon

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly Ep 14 Zaid Ibrahim on justice, politics and more

Joseph Choong rose to fame during the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games held last year after being recognised as the first British to win a gold medal for the country in the men’s modern pentathlon at the Olympics.

His popularity also quickly spread to Malaysia when netizens discovered his golden link to the country through his father, Michael Choong.

Choong senior, originally from Seremban, moved to Australia when he was 13 years old and lived there for a decade before relocating to the United Kingdom. He met his British wife, Beverly, in the 1990s, then got married and went on to have 2 sons, Joseph and Henry.
The 27-year-old Joe developed a keen interest in sports as a young boy. 

Joe said that he felt very lucky that he was absorbed into the national setup and credited his success to the country’s sports programme where its institutions have a strict and just selection policy. The teams will train and only the best athletes come forward and get selected to represent the country for the Olympics.

Michael, who was also an avid sportsman in his school days, witnessed how his son underwent rigorous training and came out on top to be one of the best athletes to represent the UK.
“I kept telling Joe, do not be fooled by thinking they will train you up. You have got to step up.

“You are a pawn for them to use to win medals for the country. So, you must be the best.” 

Pentathlon is an athletic event featuring five disciplines – swimming, fencing, horse-riding, shooting, and running.

Joe is also a strong advocate in making the horse-riding discipline fairer and safer for both athletes and horses.

The International Union of Modern Pentathlon (UIPM) is currently exploring the possibility of replacing horse-riding with obstacle course racing altogether.

“A huge majority of pentathletes want to keep horse-riding and change not just the rules of the competition, but to encourage the right attitude towards horses and treating them with respect.
“That is how we can improve the riding discipline in the sport,” Joe added.

The Vibes recently sat down with Joe, Michael, and Beverly in a podcast session – More Than a Game – and went in-depth on the Olympic champion’s inspiration and his journey to becoming a competitive athlete in a sport that derived from ancient Greece.

Edited and Produced by Ethan Phoon

More Than a Game Ep 3 -Joseph Choong on fairness for athletes and animals in sports

This weeks edition of Silver Screens and Guitar Strings has hosts Datuk Kamil and Manvir speaking to Maha Balakrishnan, a legal expert on institutional development and rights based policymaking. 

Maha helps us understand the current system being used to regulate censorship and how it’s compares to our neighbouring countries. 

Are we doing enough to promote and develop the film making industry with these current rules? As we unpack this and learn best practices used elsewhere in the world, Maha shared a possible solution to the issue. 

Find out more on the podcast and do keep sending in your suggestions and comments as you tweet @manvirvictor.

Recorded and Edited by Ethan Phoon

Silver Screens And Guitar Strings - How Does Malaysia Deal With Censorship?

Warisan President Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal was a young boy in 1962 and remembers clearly the day the Cobbold Commission came to his hometown of Semporna, Sabah, to ask if the people were agreeable to form Malaysia. Flash forward to 59 years later, it seems that this partnership in nationhood has left Sabah and Sarawak far behind their ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ in the peninsular. 

At the core of it, Shafie wants to unite everyone under one roof, but this is proving a challenge in multiracial and multicultural Malaysia, where certain groups demand privileges over others, and as the federal government continues to exploit the rich natural resources of some states without giving back to impoverished local communities.

In the previous general election, Malaysians from all walks of life – whether at home or abroad – made the dedicated effort to remove the Barisan Nasional government, which had ruled for over six decades.

The Pakatan Harapan coalition was united in that endeavour - but this odd marriage of historical political rivals ultimately proved to be an alliance that could not hold firm.

What did Shafie really think of this coalition?

When Warisan joined Pakatan Harapan in 2018, he saw that the old culture of racial politics was still alive and well, even in this so-called multiracial coalition. While he acknowledges that nothing can be done overnight, a truly multicultural leadership (and government) needs to start somewhere. 

Why is Warisan venturing into Peninsular Malaysia?

“The wind coming from the East is essential now. It is timely. Because since independence, the wind coming from the West, entering Sarawak, going to Sabah, trying to inculcate that sort of values, moulding the minds of the people like UMNO culture, PAS culture - it doesn’t blend well into the fabric of society where we can mingle well and freely.”

What is Warisan’s ideology and strategy as it looks to contest in Peninsular Malaysia alone? 

With a coalition government a possibility in the near future, how open is Warisan to be a part of this administration? 

Can mindsets be reset? Is inclusiveness, access for all to education, health, modern infrastructures, and social fairness too much to ask for?

What are Warisan's expectations in this election?

Can Sabah lead the way for a fair and progressive Malaysia for all? 

Presented by Petra News chief executive Datuk Zainul Arifin Mohamed Isa, executive director Datuk Ahirudin Attan (better known as Rocky Bru) and editor-in-chief Terence Fernandez


Produced by Shazmin Shamsuddin and sound engineered by Ethan Phoon

The Good The Bad The Ugly : Ep 20 Shafie Apdal on Warisan’s vision for inclusive Malaysia post-GE15

The Vibes’ Sports speaks with an ardent Brazilian supporter G. Surach on the samba boys chances of winning the Qatar World Cup
Brazil has always been the favourites to win the world cup although the last time the South American giants carried the cup was 20- years ago when the tournament was held in South Korea & Japan.

Since then, they have always made to the quarterfinals or semifinal of the World Cup. This year, Brazilian supporters are once again hoping that the World Cup will go home to Rio de Janeiro.

Brazil has the highest number of World Cup wins since it was first held in 1930. The Selecao World Cup triumphs came in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002 

In today’s episode, we have ardent Brazilian supporter and The Vibes News Editor G. Surach giving his take on the samba boys’ chances of winning their 6th World Cup.

Join us in the third episode of Football Vibes as we get into his mind as well as to our expectations on teams progressing into the knockout stage tonight.

Bear in mind, we are not football experts to be dissecting the games in detail, but we love talking about the game and learn about each other’s experience and opinion of it. 

Recorded and Edited by Ethan Phoon

Football Vibes Ep 3: Brazil without Neymar, can they put up a fight?

The Vibes marketing consultant Anne Edwards shares how she became an England supporter because of her father.

“Three Lions on a shirt. It is coming home. It’s coming.” 
Those were the lyrics from the song, Three Lions by English comedians David Baddiel and Frank Skinner, and The Lightning Seeds that came out in 1996.

Yet, it has never come true since England’s only title claim in the FIFA World Cup in 1966.

They came close in 1990 and 2018 but made it to fourth place after losing to Italy and Belgium in the semifinal, respectively.

Could 2022 be their year? Their fans would certainly hope so, including one in particular, The Vibes marketing consultant Anne Edwards.

In today’s episode, Anne, who is a MotoGP and Formula One fan, said she came to be an England fan because her father is a loyal supporter. 

“I remember every time my father watched an England match, he would never fall asleep. He is so focused.

“So, for this year’s World Cup knockout stage, I will be coming home to watch England vs Senegal with him. I look forward to it,” she said during the podcast interview.

Join us in the fourth episode of Football Vibes as we discuss how the other underdog teams have been making surprises at the World Cup and putting big teams, such as England, in the hot seat in a race to claim the 2022 Qatar World Cup title.

Disclaimer – we are not football experts nor pundits, but only a couple of people who love talking about the game and learning about each other’s experiences.

Recorded and Edited by Ethan Phoon

Football Vibes- Ep 4- Is It Coming Home?

Only eight countries remain in the FIFA World Cup to fight for the world’s biggest prize, and everyone already have their predictions set in place as to which teams will make it all the way through to the end. 

Could it be Brazil itching to claim their 6th title after failing to do so in 2014 as host? (Yes, Germany fans, we remember)
Or England, who are desperate to finally “Bring it home” since their sole victory in 1966?

Portugal could prove that they are more than just a team with star player Cristiano Ronaldo on their side. (But sometimes on the sidelines as well)

Join us in today’s episode as we have The Vibes chief news editor and ‘Iron Lady’ Khaw Chia Hui in the studio to talk about how the world cup has become a good distraction in the newsroom from the weeks-long 15th general election coverage. 

We name our predictions for what the final will look like but given how the tournament has been going so far, anything can happen, and rest assured, something will happen. 

Mind you, we are not experienced football commentators, nor are we football pundits, but just a bunch of people who enjoy the game.

Recorded and Edited by Ethan Phoon

Football Vibes- Ep 5 - World Cup Final Brazil Vs Who?

In this episode, Beatrice shares her experiences during meltdowns and what goes on in her mind during and after. Together, Shazmin and Beatrice dissect what a meltdown is and how it can be overwhelming for the autistic individual. 

Beatrice also shares incidents where she wished people understood and how they could have helped her through a meltdown. With  Beatrice's insights, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by autistic individuals in a world not built for them. 
 
Beatrice Leong is a documentary filmmaker and entrepreneur attached to a health tech startup initiative and runs an autism advocacy group called AIDA. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at age 35, she dedicates her life path to reframe our understanding ASD to foster greater understanding from and for a meaningful participation and inclusion of autistics themselves across all levels of society.

Produced and co-presented by Shazmin Shamsuddin

Autism from the Inside Out : Ep 2 - Anatomy Of a Meltdown

Welcome to episode 3 of Autism From the Inside Out, where our host, Shazmin Shamsuddin, continues her conversation with Beatrice Leong, a late diagnosed autistic woman. 

In this episode, Beatrice shares her experiences with different communication styles and how society places a disproportionate importance on verbal communication. Through her insights, we learn about the challenges that arise with an autistic person in attempting to communicate, and how it can manifest in difficulties and misunderstanding with others. 

Beatrice also shares her struggles with finding speech sometimes under distress and how frustrating it can be when she cannot. Shazmin and Beatrice also discuss the importance of communication as a two-way process, and how understanding the perspectives of others can create more meaningful interactions 
 
Beatrice Leong is a documentary filmmaker and entrepreneur attached to a health tech startup initiative and runs an autism advocacy group called AIDA. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at age 35, she dedicates her life path to reframe our understanding ASD to foster greater understanding from and for a meaningful participation and inclusion of autistics themselves across all levels of society. 

Produced and co-presented by Shazmin Shamsuddin

Autism from the Inside Out : Ep 3 - Communication and Speech

On the final episode of Autism From the Inside Out, where Shazmin Shamsuddin speaks with her guest, Beatrice Leong, about being an autistic advocate. In this episode, Beatrice shares why she chose the path of advocacy. 

She explains that she feels there is no clear pathway for autistic individuals to navigate society and that advocating for greater understanding and acceptance is crucial. Beatrice also reflects on the challenges she has faced as an advocate and the importance of self-care in her work. Through their conversation, we gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of advocacy and the need for greater representation and inclusivity in society. Join us as we explore the path to advocacy and the vital role that autistic advocates play in creating a more compassionate and equitable world.

Beatrice Leong is a documentary filmmaker and entrepreneur attached to a health tech startup initiative and runs an autism advocacy group called AIDA. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at age 35, she dedicates her life path to reframe our understanding ASD to foster greater understanding from and for a meaningful participation and inclusion of autistics themselves across all levels of society. 

Produced and co-presented by Shazmin Shamsuddin

Autism from the Inside Out : Ep 6 - Autism and Advocacy

Described for her captivating and poetic musical interpretations, Malaysian pianist Joanne Chew-Ann Chang has performed internationally in North America, Europe, and Asia. She has been featured on distinguished platforms including the Dame Myra Hess Concert Series (Chicago), WQXR’s Young Artist Showcase (New York), WFMT’s Fiesta Latin America (Chicago), BFM’s Front Row Podcast (Kuala Lumpur), International Menuhin Music Academy (Switzerland), Indiana University’s Latin American Music Center (Bloomington), Music Academy of the West (Santa Barbara), and the National Youth Orchestra of China (Beijing).

An active performer, Joanne’s accolades include the 2018 debut recording album “Díalogos” with violinist Alan Snow (Minnesota Orchestra), Duo2.5 recital tour in 2022 with Wai Ki Wun (clarinet, baritone), finalist at the 2021 Coltman Chamber Music Competition with Pyramis Trio, and finalist at the 2021 Music Academy of the West Duo Competition. 

A highly dedicated pedagogue, Joanne balances between teaching and performing, and is a current piano faculty member at the Nightingale-Bamford School (New York) and recipient of the Morse Teaching Fellowship at The Juilliard School - whilst also pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Collaborative Piano as a recipient of the Kovner Fellowship.

On Beyond Breakfast, she shares her journey in classical music and academia and her hopes to eventually come home to develop a robust ecosystem in Malaysia where musicians can thrive and grow in their field and make classical music accessible to all.

Beyond Breakfast with Shazmin Shamsuddin - Pianist Joanne Chang

A regular presence at 27 Scotts, a cafe at the back end of Bangsar Shopping Centre, one would assume that YAM Tunku Kamariah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah Binti Almarhum Sultan Iskandar is just another striking tai tai who chooses to spend her hours entertaining friends over food and drinks at the popular eatery.

In fact, she frequents the cafe and uses it as a base for her various meetings - and in the lull in between, to people-watch and get inspiration as she sketches.

Tunku Puteri (as she is known) hails from the Royal Family of Johor - the eldest child of His Majesty the late Sultan Iskandar of Johor and Her Royal Highness Enche’ Besar Khalsom Abdullah. She is the elder sister to the current Sultan of Johor, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar and Her Majesty the Queen, Tunku Hajjah Azizah Aminah Iskandariah.

The visual artist with an interior architecture degree had from a young age been very much indulged in her love of art by her parents and gives us a glimpse of just how ordinary her childhood was growing up in the royal household. 

Her father, the late Sultan of Johor, used to personally drive her to and from school, where they would occasionally stop at the bookstore afterwards for art supplies. A frequent visitor to the eateries at Lido beachfront in Johor Bahru, the late Sultan was popular with his subjects and down to earth with anyone who approached them.

Tunku Kamariah delves deep on how social media, technology and pop culture has shaped her art and the medium she uses to express herself. She discusses her upcoming exhibition, Reemergence of My Soul, where a whole new adventurous and eclectic expression has emerged from her debut exhibition held in 2021 titled By the Illumination of the Moon, which reflected her new passage in life. This upcoming showcase will also feature the launch of Tunku Kamariah’s first limited edition lifestyle collection.

Reemergence of My Soul is open to the public and will be held at the function room, Serai Bukit Bandaraya, Bangsar from 10am - 4pm on Saturday, 18 March.

Beyond Breakfast with Shazmin Shamsuddin - Tunku Kamariah on her soul's expression in art

President of Malaysian Pharmacist Society takes us behind the medicine counters

Professor Amrahi Buang has been on the frontline of healthcare for over 3 decades. He has worked in both public and private hospitals but a major part of his career has been in a teaching hospital, mainly University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC).

This week he takes us on a journey behind one of the most important and oft overlooked areas of healthcare, the pharmacist.

A pharmacist is often the closest person we can access as they are available in all neighbourhoods and during retail hours. Medications for cold, coughs, fever and sore throat are all easily accessible and they in turn act as a conduit to reaching the public with necessary information the fastest.

In this episode we also talk about the main areas of concern for pharmacists, what they need to do to constantly update themselves in their particular neighbourhood environment and why their communication needs to be clear.

As we continue to highlight the important areas in healthcare, do DM me on Twitter @manvirvictor to suggest or even ask questions on areas that you feel we haven't covered yet.

Healthcare Today with Manvir Victor Ep 19 : Why pharmacists are so crucial for our healthcare

On Artizens this week, hosts Datuk Kamil and Manvir speak to Rekha Menon who decided a few years ago to quit the rat race as a media consultant to become a full time artist after a family tragedy made her reevaluate her life. 

With the support of her parents, who she says are her biggest fans, Rekha continues to push on and has made several inroads into her now chosen career.

Her paintings have been featured in Bali, India, Singapore and she travels extensively and connects with artists all around the region. 

She considers herself still a novice and constantly is learning to find her “voice” through her art. 

Her artwork can be seen on her Instagram page, @rekhss.art 

As Artizens continues to showcase and present both local and international creative talent, if you have any suggestions, do DM us @othman_kamil or @manvirvictor on Twitter or follows us for more.

Artizens Ep 8: Rekha Menon finds her voice through her art

In 1996, Sharizan Borhan exploded onto the scene when he won the Best New Artist award at the Anugerah Industri Music (AIM) with the song, Hadir. 

Since then, he has become a great entertainer, much sought after voice-over talent and emcee for many high level corporate events. 

From his humble start at The Singing Shop and initial defeat at talent show Asia Bagus, Sharizan regales us with how it all started, where it has taken him, and where he hopes it will continue to lead.

Sharizan also gives us a sneak peek into his next passion project, and invites us to follow him on social media to find out where you can experience his enthusiasm and energy. 

Artizens is a platform where you can promote your project or talent so do DM us at @othman_kamil or @manvirvictor on Twitter to find out how you can be on the show.

Artizens Ep 9 : Sharizan still singing his way into our hearts.

This week on Healthcare Today with Manvir Victor, we delve into autism, the stigmas that still prevail amongst some, and how to get your child assessed if you think they might have autism.

Datuk Dr Raj Karim is a specialist with women and children’s health, Dr Kamal Kenny is a consultant and social psychologist, whilst Suresh Unnikrishnans’ youngest son has been diagnosed with being on the spectrum. 

According to Datuk Raj, the MOH Klinik Kesihatan has the requisite skills and knowledge to assess children. If they find any signs of the child being ‘on the spectrum’ they can refer them to a specialist. 

Here we discuss insurance companies and how parents can be better prepared to choose the right company to insure their children. 

Being ‘on the spectrum’ is explained both clinically and by a parent and we explore support groups that exist to aid parents and caregivers. The key takeaway being having autism is not a disadvantage but a springboard to developing other key skills and talents. 

For more questions about this or any other healthcare issues, you can DM me on Twitter @manvirvictor.

Healthcare Today with Manvir Victor Ep 20 : unpacking the meaning of being ‘on the spectrum’

Amanda Nell Eu just got back from the trip of her lifetime. While at the Cannes Film Festival to premiere her directorial feature debut Tiger Stripes, she was awarded the Grand Prix Jury award. 

The movie, which hopefully will be available in local theatres soon, had been on a 5 year journey, literally around the world, in its making.

From the spark of an idea, to collaborating with a like-minded producer, this project saw her travelling the world to learn from the many film and script labs before she perfected her script and was ready for production. 

She reveals how Covid-19 affected the production and the lengths international partners went to  help make this movie a reality. 

As we discover her story, we realise what Malaysia needs to do to encourage and develop local talent who have the ability to tell great local stories at a global level.

Artizens Ep 10 : Tiger Stripes stripped down to its core

Admired for his approximately 30 years of rapidly growing, disruptive online businesses, Georg Chmiel has built significant expertise on a global scale in strategy, innovative technologies and corporate finance.

The founder of Chmiel Global Advisory has led more than 30 acquisitions and been taken over 6 times.

He was instrumental in creating already three unicorns during his career and is known to significantly grow shareholder value for all companies he is and was involved in.

Chmiel is the Co-Founder / Chair of Juwai-IQI Holdings, the largest proptech group in Southeast Asia with more than 30,000 sales agents.  

He is also the non-executive Chair of Spacetalk (ASX:SPA), Director of Centrepoint Alliance (ASX:CAF), the Prop Tech Group (ASX:PTG) and BUTN (ASX:BTN). 

His vast experience has garnered him a position as Senior Advisor of brioHR.com, one of Southeast Asia’s fastest growing HR platform and madeComfy.com, one of the most innovative short term and holiday rental platforms in Australia.

On Top Guns with Anne Edwards, Chmiel shares how the many global issues like global supply chain shortages, war in Ukraine and Covid-19 related economic issues can be overcome by entrepreneurs and businesses.

He also spoke of his new venture Spacetalk, an affordable smart watch for kids (and later also for senior citizens) which Chmiel intends to introduce in Malaysia for the safety and well being of its people.

Top Guns: Tech entrepreneur Georg Chmiel, the unicorn birther

Professor Dr Vickneswaran Mathaneswaran is a Malaysian neurosurgeon and one of the top in his field globally. Besides being an integral part of the University Malaya Neurosurgery team, he is also an inventor of many groundbreaking innovations. 

On this week's episode of Healthcare Today with Manvir Victor, he speaks exclusively on some of these innovations and studies that he has been a part of. 

One of those innovations is the 3D printing of the brain, which is now becoming something that the medical world at large is taking notice of. In this video here, one can better visualise how surgeons can prepare better putting life saving techniques into action  

Prof Vicky also talks about equitable access for healthcare and how it is something that PPUM, a public and private facility innovated in early 2012. 

Besides this, Manvir talks to him about the use of video clips transfer for mobile phones, which surprisingly began in Malaysia. 

From this episode we learn that once again, Malaysia has the right ingredients i.e. the correct talent with great innovative ideas, but we need a better system to appreciate and promote these ideas lest they leave our shores for opportunities overseas. 

With his team at PPUM, one can appreciate why our neurosurgeons are quite sought after by our neighbours. 

For more similar programmes and comments, do follow @manvirvictor for the latest in healthcare globally.

Healthcare Today with Manvir Victor Ep 21: Top neurosurgeon highlights global firsts from Malaysia

Chen Yin Wen and Syahmi Norman count themselves among the young directors that have won the BMW Shorties film competition in the past few years. 

The pair recently sat down with Datuk Kamil Othman and Manvir Victor to talk about their careers before and after winning the prestigious award on the latest episode of Artizens. 

Chen has been hard at work making documentaries, a passion for her. Her award-winning BMW Shortie, Like Toy Dolls has helped propel her ideas and her work to an international audience. 

The same happened for Syahmi, whose production Fasa was something that struck a chord with those who watched it. 

The BMW Shorties have been around for 17 years, crowning 15 grand prize winners thus far. This year they will select a grand prize winner, whilst partnering with the Malaysia International Film Festival (Miffest) for the first time. The event is scheduled to take place from July 23-29. 

As we look at some of the past winners, one can only hope that other organisations that are mandated with raising the standards of our creative works like Finas, can think outside the box and build from this momentum to help the local creative talents. 

For more insight and even comments on this podcast, do follow or DM @othman_kamil or @manvirvictor on Twitter.

Artizens Ep 11: BMW Shorties 2023 to announce winners in July

E-cigarettes are an ever-growing phenomenon with increasing recognition and acceptance globally. The Malaysian Perception of Smoking and Vaping Survey states that a clear majority (69%) of smokers want to see legislation that would allow for the distribution and sale of e-cigarettes as a viable alternative to help them quit smoking regular cigarettes. 

However, the much discussed and mooted Generational End Game proposes that both smoking and vaping be banned for those born after 2007. 

E-cigarettes have proven to be effective in reducing smoking rates in countries like New Zealand, the UK and Japan, hence why some believe regulating vape and vaping products separately from cigarettes is crucial, as the smoking of tobacco and associated chemicals does most of the harm. 

Exploring this topic with host Shazmin Shamsuddin on Beyond Breakfast is Professor Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh - Chairman of the Malaysia Society for Harm Reduction (MSHR), Tengku Aslahuddin Ja’afar, the President of Vape Consumer Association of Malaysia (VCAM) and Balan Kashmir, a local artist and Harm Reduction advocate.

We weigh the risks and effectiveness of vaping as a smoking cessation tool along with the long-term health effects of using vaping devices, its impact on society and youth, and concerns about addiction.

We discuss the potential challenges or unintended consequences of over-regulating vaping products, such as potential limitations on individual autonomy or freedom of choice, and explore how vaping rights can be effectively advocated for and protected, while still taking into account the potential health risks and other concerns associated with vaping products.

Can education and public awareness campaigns be used to support both vaping rights and developing responsible vaping behaviour? Can negative public perception be flipped to understand and accommodate those with nicotine addictions to successfully wean themselves off potentially more harmful substances found in cigarettes? We explore this and more. 

* The Vibes does not advocate smoking or vaping. This discussion is to understand the importance of proper legislation in the context of the larger debate surrounding the potential inclusion of nicotine in the Poisons Act.

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