MyPermohonan

Category: Activity

  • Special Olympics Marks One-Year Countdown to 2026 USA Games, Unveils Three-Year Bank of America Grant and Platinum-Level Partnership

    Special Olympics Marks One-Year Countdown to 2026 USA Games, Unveils Three-Year Bank of America Grant and Platinum-Level Partnership

    Special Olympics and Bank of America Announce \$5 Million Grant and Platinum Partnership Ahead of 2026 USA Games. Special Olympics International and Bank of America have announced a \$5 million, three-year grant aimed at expanding programs that empower athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through leadership development, workforce readiness training, and community inclusion. This significant investment will bolster the infrastructure of Special Olympics’ Athlete Leadership and Unified Leadership initiatives, allowing for expanded reach across local, national, and global levels—including new programming in Asia Pacific, Africa, and Latin America.

    The funding will enhance existing training and leadership initiatives such as Unified Leadership, a curriculum co-developed and facilitated by individuals with IDD that promotes inclusive mindsets in the workplace. So far, this training has been offered to more than 2,000 schools, businesses, and organizations globally. According to Mary Davis, CEO of Special Olympics, the partnership comes at a pivotal moment: “Bank of America recognizes that our athletes are powerful voices for inclusion and are helping ensure they are leading and contributing meaningfully to society.”

    As part of this deepened collaboration, Bank of America has also been named a Platinum Partner for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, scheduled to take place June 20–26, 2026, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The bank will sponsor the golf competition, which will feature more than 159 athletes and 40 caddies. This sponsorship complements the bank’s broader “Golf with Us” initiative, launched earlier this year to increase access to the sport across the U.S.

    The partnership reflects Bank of America’s long-standing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company’s disability-focused initiatives include an internal Support Services team employing over 300 individuals with IDD and the Disability Action Network (DAN), which fosters professional development and community engagement among more than 23,000 members worldwide. Additionally, in partnership with Special Olympics and the National Disability Institute, Bank of America has co-developed “Better Money Habits” financial education tools tailored for people with intellectual disabilities.

    For athletes like Charlotte Miller of Special Olympics Indiana, these programs are life-changing. “Through the Athlete Leadership Program, I’ve built skills in photography and public speaking, and I’ve even taught financial literacy through Better Money Habits,” said Miller, who will also be competing in golf at the 2026 USA Games.

    AJ Barkley, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Bank of America, emphasized the transformative nature of the alliance: “Sports unite people in powerful ways. Our nearly 50-year partnership with Special Olympics continues to reflect our shared goal of creating opportunities for people of all abilities to lead and thrive.”

    The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games are expected to be one of the largest sporting events in the country next year, drawing over 3,000 athletes from across all 50 states and attracting tens of thousands of spectators. For more information, visit 2026specialolympicsusagames.org.

  • How Gen Z is Transforming Snacks into Expressions of Culture, Identity, and Community

    How Gen Z is Transforming Snacks into Expressions of Culture, Identity, and Community

    How Gen Z Is Turning Snacks into Symbols of Culture, Connection, and Purpose. In today’s hyper-digital world, the traditional rules of consumer engagement are being rewritten by Gen Z—a generation that doesn’t just consume products but curates experiences. For them, snacks are no longer just about taste; they’re also props for content, conversation starters, and cultural signifiers. Whether it’s a bold chip bag featured in a TikTok video or a live shopping stream with a favorite influencer, the modern snack is designed to spark engagement long before the first bite. Recognizing this shift, PepsiCo is reimagining its product strategies in Malaysia to meet Gen Z’s expectations around culture, community, and cause.

    PepsiCo’s approach embraces the concept of the “social snack,” crafting products like Lay’s Double Crunch to suit key Gen Z moments—late-night study sessions, gaming streams, and digital hangouts. With bold flavors and visually striking packaging built for social media, these snacks aren’t just made to be eaten; they’re meant to be shared, seen, and celebrated online. A prime example is the limited-edition UEFA Jumbo Pack featuring football legend Lionel Messi. Launched during a TikTok Shop livestream, the collectible pack generated massive engagement, accounting for 70% of total Gross Merchandise Value in a single session—demonstrating the power of designing products with digital resonance in mind.

    Beyond aesthetics, PepsiCo is investing heavily in digital commerce strategies that align with Gen Z’s online habits. In Malaysia, the brand now hosts 25 livestreaming hours per month, reaching over 30,000 viewers with creator-led content, product drops, and exclusive deals. This digital-native strategy earned PepsiCo the Foodpanda Collaborative Excellence Award, proving that when done right, digital engagement can directly translate into conversion. As Aditya Ahuja, Cluster GM for PepsiCo Foods Malaysia and the Philippines, put it, “We’re not adapting to trends – we’re anticipating behaviors.”

    But the evolution doesn’t stop at digital. Gen Z consumers expect brands to stand for something—and PepsiCo is delivering on that front as well. With initiatives like its partnership with The Assembly Soup Kitchen (TASK) to combat food insecurity in underserved communities, PepsiCo is aligning brand purpose with real-world impact. The company also supports health-conscious lifestyles through reformulated products, such as the Quaker 3-in-1 range with reduced sugar and sodium. Their “Jom Quaker Fit” rewards program turns everyday purchases into wellness opportunities, offering incentives like spa passes and fitness vouchers to encourage healthier living.

    PepsiCo’s connection with Gen Z also runs deep in the cultural fabric of the communities it serves. Football, a unifying passion in Malaysia, has been central to this strategy. Lay’s UEFA Champions League campaign went beyond traditional advertising by creating interactive experiences across 60 locations and engaging more than 80,000 fans. Through games, challenges, and local events, PepsiCo transformed everyday spaces into celebration hubs, building authentic moments of joy and togetherness. This commitment to community-driven engagement is set to continue with the upcoming FIFA 2026 partnership, further embedding Lay’s into the lives of fans who don’t just watch football—they live it.

    As Gen Z continues to shape the future of consumption with every scroll and stream, PepsiCo’s strategy in Malaysia serves as a compelling playbook. It’s a blueprint for how brands can stay relevant by creating experiences that blend purpose with personality, digital with real-world, and consumption with community. In this new era, the snack aisle is no longer just about what tastes good—it’s about what feels right, looks right, and means something to the people who matter most.


  • Nobel Peace Prize Laureate President José Ramos-Horta Named Honorary Adjunct Professor at Taylor’s University

    Nobel Peace Prize Laureate President José Ramos-Horta Named Honorary Adjunct Professor at Taylor’s University

    President José Ramos-Horta Appointed Honorary Adjunct Professor at Taylor’s University. Taylor’s University has proudly appointed Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, José Ramos-Horta, as an Honorary Adjunct Professor for its Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) (Honours) programme. This distinguished appointment reflects the university’s commitment to integrating real-world leadership and global perspectives into its academic environment.

    President Ramos-Horta, renowned for his lifelong dedication to peace, democracy, and human rights, brings decades of experience in diplomacy, governance, and international relations. His role within the PPE programme will see him actively engaging with students through guest lectures on current regional and global challenges, offering insights drawn from his extensive political journey and global advocacy work.

    “At Taylor’s, education goes beyond textbooks—it’s about purposeful, real-world learning,” said Professor Barry Winn, Vice-Chancellor and President of Taylor’s University. “Having His Excellency President Ramos-Horta join us as Honorary Adjunct Professor offers our students a rare opportunity to learn from one of the world’s most impactful leaders. His presence truly sets Taylor’s apart in offering transformative learning experiences.”

    In his new role, President Ramos-Horta will not only contribute to classroom learning but also support academic, research, and professional collaborations through his wide-reaching international networks. His focus on leadership, governance, and economic development will enrich the PPE curriculum and equip students with a nuanced understanding of global affairs.

    Reflecting on his appointment, President Ramos-Horta said, “Education is one of the most powerful tools for shaping a more just and peaceful world. I am honoured to join Taylor’s University and share my journey with its students. In this time of great global challenge, fostering critical thinking, ethical leadership, and global awareness is not just important—it is essential.”

    To commemorate this milestone, Taylor’s University is launching the President J. Ramos-Horta Scholarship, which will be awarded to a deserving student from Timor-Leste who demonstrates academic excellence and a commitment to making a global impact. This initiative underscores Taylor’s dedication to nurturing future changemakers and supporting students from diverse backgrounds.

    In addition, the university is offering over RM30 million in scholarships and awards for the upcoming September 2025 intake, reinforcing its mission to provide accessible, world-class education to students across the region and beyond.

    Taylor’s University is now accepting applications for its Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (Honours) programme for the September 2025 intake, with future intakes in April and September each year. For more details, visit https://bit.ly/TaylorsPhilosophyPoliticsEconomics.

  • PCEB Holds Meeting with Cambodia Airways in Phnom Penh to Support New Direct Flight to Penang

    PCEB Holds Meeting with Cambodia Airways in Phnom Penh to Support New Direct Flight to Penang

    PCEB Engages Cambodia Airways to Support Launch of Phnom Penh–Penang Direct Flight. The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB), representing the State of Penang, made a strategic visit to Cambodia Airways headquarters in Phnom Penh on 17 June 2025. The visit, led by PCEB’s Chief Executive Officer Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran, alongside Head of Sales & Marketing Ms. Siti Sarah Ismail and Marketing & Communications Manager Mr. Terry Neoh, was a key engagement in anticipation of Cambodia Airways’ inaugural direct flight connecting Phnom Penh and Penang. This collaboration marks a significant step toward strengthening regional air connectivity and enhancing business and tourism ties between Cambodia and northern Malaysia.

    During the meeting, the PCEB delegation met with senior representatives from Cambodia Airways, including Executive Deputy General Manager Mr. Guowei Bai, Deputy Director of the Marketing Committee Mr. Daniel Li, and Assistant to the CEO SOB Ms. Sok Ravy. The dialogue centered on joint strategies to ensure the successful launch and long-term sustainability of the new route. Topics discussed included potential marketing partnerships, joint promotional efforts, and broader initiatives to raise awareness of the new connection among key audiences in both regions.

    Set to commence operations on 26 June 2025, the Phnom Penh–Penang direct flight will operate twice weekly, on Thursdays and Sundays. The route offers immense potential for business and corporate travellers by providing a direct and efficient link between Cambodia’s capital and Penang, a growing hub for business events, trade, and investment in Southeast Asia. In addition to the business benefits, the new service is expected to deepen bilateral engagement across tourism, MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), trade, and the creative industries.

    The partnership is also grounded in the shared cultural heritage of both destinations. With Penang’s George Town and Cambodia’s historical centers in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap all recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the new route paves the way for enriched cultural tourism and heritage exchange. This alignment is expected to bolster tourism flows and encourage greater exploration of Southeast Asia’s rich cultural diversity.

    Strategically, the route serves as a valuable transit option for business travelers, linking Cambodia not only to Penang but also to Penang’s wider network of regional and international connections. As part of PCEB’s commitment to supporting the success of this new service, the bureau will explore partnerships with Cambodia Airways and other stakeholders to boost awareness and uptake among key markets.

    This initiative is in line with the Penang State Government’s broader vision to strengthen international connectivity, foster economic collaboration, and accelerate the development of Penang’s business events and tourism sectors. With its modern infrastructure, strategic location, and vibrant economy, Penang is well-positioned to serve as a dynamic gateway for regional growth and ASEAN integration, with the Phnom Penh–Penang route playing a vital role in this forward-looking agenda.


  • How Gen Z is Transforming Snacks into Expressions of Culture, Identity, and Shared Values

    How Gen Z is Transforming Snacks into Expressions of Culture, Identity, and Shared Values

    How Gen Z is Turning Snacks into Cultural Symbols of Identity, Purpose, and Belonging. In today’s hyper-digital world, Gen Z is redefining the rules of consumer engagement—and brands like PepsiCo are paying close attention. For this socially connected and value-driven generation, a snack is no longer just a snack. It’s a statement, a digital accessory, and a reflection of their lifestyle and beliefs. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram aren’t just social media—they’re shopping destinations and stages for self-expression. Here, flavor alone isn’t enough. A product must look good in a selfie, align with personal values, and generate likes before it earns a purchase. Recognizing this shift, PepsiCo is no longer simply selling food; it’s curating experiences that resonate with Gen Z’s culture, identity, and digital habits.

    PepsiCo’s approach is exemplified by its launch of Lay’s Double Crunch, an intensely flavored, deep-ridged snack crafted to enhance the moments Gen Z values most—late-night study marathons, gaming sessions, and creative hangouts. The product’s bold packaging is designed for digital impact, built to stand out not only on store shelves but on TikTok feeds and Instagram Stories. The strategy came to life during the launch of Lay’s UEFA Jumbo Pack featuring football legend Lionel Messi. A livestream on TikTok Shop showcasing the pack accounted for a staggering 70% of total Gross Merchandise Value in a single session, proving the power of timely, exclusive, and visually striking content tailored for social platforms.

    But the evolution goes deeper than visual appeal. PepsiCo is turning digital engagement into real conversion, particularly in Malaysia where the company has leaned heavily into livestream commerce. With an average of 25 hours of live selling a month and over 30,000 shoppers reached through interactive sessions and influencer-led product drops, PepsiCo is transforming platforms like TikTok from mere brand awareness tools into engines of direct commerce. This strategic integration of content, commerce, and community recently earned the brand the Foodpanda Collaborative Excellence Award—recognition of its agile and shopper-centric model.

    More than just sales and screen time, PepsiCo is aligning its purpose with the values that matter to Gen Z. The company’s efforts to support local communities and promote wellness are integral to its brand identity. In 2024, PepsiCo collaborated with The Assembly Soup Kitchen (TASK) to distribute 1,000 food packs to underserved communities in Kuala Lumpur’s Chow Kit area. The initiative benefitted refugee students, homeless individuals, and B40 families, reflecting the company’s broader commitment to tackling food insecurity. Globally, PepsiCo has contributed over USD 14 million to the World Food Programme, reinforcing its role in addressing critical social issues.

    Meanwhile, health-conscious choices are shaping the way Gen Z consumes. PepsiCo is reformulating products like the Quaker 3-in-1 range to reduce sugar and sodium, striking a balance between nutrition and taste. Its Jom Quaker Fit programme goes a step further by rewarding consumers with wellness perks—spa passes, gym vouchers, and healthy dining offers—making each purchase a gateway to a healthier lifestyle. This kind of thoughtful innovation reflects how PepsiCo is embedding wellness into the everyday lives of its consumers.

    Equally important is building a sense of belonging. Football, a cultural cornerstone in Malaysia, serves as a unifying passion. PepsiCo tapped into this through its UEFA Champions League campaign, not just with giveaways, but through real-life activations in 60 locations that brought together over 80,000 fans. Through community games and interactive experiences, everyday places became hubs of celebration and connection. These campaigns didn’t just entertain—they fostered shared moments that felt personal and communal. Looking ahead, PepsiCo aims to replicate and scale this success with its upcoming FIFA 2026 partnership, reinforcing Lay’s place at the heart of football-loving communities.

    As Gen Z continues to reshape the consumer landscape with every scroll and click, PepsiCo’s strategy in Malaysia offers a roadmap for brands seeking relevance. By designing with purpose, showing up in the digital spaces Gen Z inhabits, and building campaigns rooted in authenticity and connection, PepsiCo isn’t just keeping up with trends—it’s becoming part of a generation’s everyday culture. As Aditya Ahuja, Cluster GM for PepsiCo Foods Malaysia and the Philippines, puts it: “Today’s generation doesn’t want to be spoken to—they want to be invited in.” And that’s exactly what PepsiCo is doing—one snack, one story, and one shared experience at a time.