StarDream Cruises Unveils 2026 Asia Experiences & Celebrates Dream Cruises 10th Anniversary

Staying true to its “Knows Asia Best” brand promise, StarDream Cruises — home to StarCruises and Dream Cruises — is bringing the best of Asia closer to Malaysians with an expanded and exciting line-up of sailings from Port Klang, Singapore and across the region in 2026.

Marking the start of Dream Cruises’ 2026 sailing season from Port Klang, the cruise line’s flagship, Genting Dream, embarks on its first departure today, ushering in a vibrant year of celebrity-led experiences, destination-inspired itineraries and world-class lifestyle entertainment at sea in celebration of Dream Cruises’ 10th anniversary.

Guests can look forward to an exciting line-up of special, star-powered sailings, featuring Chef Tommie Lee (also known as French Papa) from Culinary Class Wars from 3rd – 5th May 2026, the debut of Forever Broadway in June 2026, Amotti from Netflix’s Physical: 100 from 26th – 28th July 2026, and rising K-pop group KIIRAS from 25th – 27th October 2026.

To mark the milestone, Dream Cruises has launched a limited-time anniversary promotion, offering guests a Buy One Get One Free deal on all Genting Dream sailings, while the 3rd and 4th passengers sharing the same cabin enjoy a special rate of only RM10 per person. Maybank Mastercard and Visa credit card members will also enjoy an additional 5% off all Dream Cruises and StarCruises sailings, exclusively available on https://ift.tt/Zv0YGp6, offering the perfect opportunity for guests to experience the StarDream Cruises fleet at exceptional value.

Adding to the excitement, its sister brand StarCruises will present a special highlight as Malaysia’s beloved culinary icon Chef Wan makes a highly anticipated return at sea aboard Star Voyager. He will headline a special 3 Night Phuket–Penang sailing from Port Klang (22nd – 25th May 2026), bringing his signature local flavours to life through an exclusive culinary showcase, enriched with his vibrant storytelling. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy his specially curated dishes at The Lido buffet, making the experience even more memorable, perfectly timed for the local school holidays.

This will be followed by two additional 2 Night Phuket cruises departing from Port Klang on 25th and 27th May 2026. More exciting sailings from Singapore will also be available, offering even greater flexibility for regional travellers. Homegrown in Asia with a strong connection to Malaysia, StarDream Cruises continues to deliver thoughtfully curated experiences tailored to diverse travellers. Guests can indulge in a world-class culinary journey featuring international cuisines, alongside certified Halal and Jain vegetarian dining options, offering added convenience and peace of mind, especially for Muslim travellers.

Beyond onboard entertainment and dining, StarDream Cruises is also bringing guests closer to some of Malaysia’s most sought-after leisure destinations, with short getaway sailings to Penang, Malacca, Pulau Redang, Tioman Island and Pangkor Island. These itineraries not only provide easy, hassle-free escapes for families and holidaymakers, but also support inbound tourism and showcase Malaysia’s rich coastal and island offerings.

Across its growing network, StarDream Cruises connects travellers to more than 50 destinations throughout Southeast and East Asia, delivering a dynamic mix of themed entertainment, culturally inspired programmes and enriching experiences for guests of all ages.

For those seeking an elevated escape, The Palace — StarDream Cruises’ exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept — offers luxurious suites, personalised butler service and premium privileges, creating a truly private and bespoke holiday experience at sea. This rising demand for seamless, multi-destination holidays is reflected in the cruise line’s strong regional performance, with StarDream Cruises recording over 1.4 million inbound passenger arrivals into Malaysian ports and over 220,000 outbound passengers from Malaysia since inception in 2022 until to date.

“This year, we are bringing together the very best of Asia — from its destinations and cuisine to its entertainment and culture — into one unforgettable holiday experience for our guests,” said Michael Goh, President of StarDream Cruises. “As Dream Cruises celebrates its 10th anniversary, we are proud to strengthen our presence in Malaysia and support Malaysia’s momentum towards Visit Malaysia 2026. By homeporting in Port Klang, we are making cruising more accessible for Malaysians while positioning Malaysia as a key gateway for cruise travel across Asia,” he added.

For more information and upcoming sailings, please visit https://ift.tt/Zv0YGp6 or contact authorised travel partners.

The post StarDream Cruises Unveils 2026 Asia Experiences & Celebrates Dream Cruises 10th Anniversary appeared first on Hype Malaysia.

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Castrol Expands Cub Prix Championship Sponsorship & Brings Track-Tested Performance To New Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE Scooter 10W-40

Castrol Malaysia has announced the expansion of its sponsorship in the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) Malaysian Cub Prix Championship through its racing programme with Yuzy Racing. At the same time, the company introduced Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE Scooter 10W-40, underscoring continued commitment to performance engineering for both competitive racing and everyday scooter mobility.

Under the expanded arrangement, Castrol’s championship sponsorship now encompasses both the CP150 and CP125 categories, two of the championship’s premier underbone (“cub”) racing classes. On track, Castrol is represented through Yuzy Racing, fielding three bikes in CP150 category and one in CP125. This broader involvement increases Castrol’s presence across multiple displacement classes within Malaysia’s leading underbone racing platform, reinforcing its commitment to rider development and advancing technical performance standards.

Launched alongside the initiative, Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE Scooter 10W-40 is a premium fully synthetic engine oil formulated for modern scooters operating in high-heat, high-friction environments. Developed to support acceleration while delivering sustained protection under load, the formulation helps maintain performance stability across prolonged urban riding conditions.

“Cub Prix is one of Malaysia’s most competitive two-wheel racing platforms, where both rider and machine are pushed to perform consistently,” said Joshua Tan, Head of Marketing for Malaysia, Singapore & Philippines. “By extending our sponsorship across both the CP150 and CP125 categories, we are reinforcing our presence in a setting where performance is continuously tested under race conditions, while also supporting the teams and emerging talent driving the championship forward.”

“This same emphasis on consistency is reflected in Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE Scooter 10W-40,” he added. “For many riders, performance is experienced through everyday conditions such as heat, stop-start traffic and extended operating hours. With our 5-in-1 Full Synthetic technology, we are introducing a premium fully synthetic solution designed to deliver smoother engine operation and enhanced protection against heat and wear in real-world riding environments.”

Gan Wee Kiong, Country Sales Director for Malaysia, Singapore and Philippines at Castrol, said Cub Prix is an important platform for developing racing talent and testing performance in real racing conditions. “For Castrol, what we learn in motorsports helps us develop better products for everyday riders. With the scooter segment continuing to grow in Malaysia, the introduction of Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE Scooter reflects our focus on supporting both racing performance and the needs of daily riders, while meeting the quality and regulatory standards expected in the Malaysian market.”

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Across Malaysia, scooters are used under demanding daily patterns, from urban commuting to work-related travel and delivery activity. These operating conditions place thermal and mechanical stress on engines over long hours of use, making lubrication performance a practical reliability decision rather than a specification on paper.

The introduction of Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE Scooter 10W-40 reflects Castrol’s continued focus on engineering solutions that hold up in real operating environments and meet the standards riders and service centres apply at maintenance time, where dependable protection over actual mileage remains the priority.

Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE Scooter 10W-40 is currently undergoing final regulatory approval and is expected to be available in the Malaysian market from May 2026 onwards, following SIRIM certification. The product is already in production at Castrol’s manufacturing facility in Port Klang. SIRIM certification, which is a regulatory requirement for engine oils in Malaysia, ensures that products meet the required national quality and performance standards before entering the market.

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Skechers Malaysia Serves Up 4th International Pickleball Tournament With Prize Pool Up To RM100k

The growth of pickleball in Malaysia shows no sign of slowing down, with an estimated 100,000 active players nationwide. Now in its fourth consecutive year, Skechers, The Comfort Technology Company™ and global leader in lifestyle and performance footwear, returns with the Skechers International Pickleball Tournament – Malaysia Edition 2026, taking place from 8th to 10th May 2026 at Tomaz Pickleball Club @ Subang Jaya.

With registration now open, each edition has seen growing participation and increasingly competitive gameplay from local talent and international competitors alike, raising the bar with every match. A fixture on the regional pickleball calendar, the tournament stands as a testament to the sport’s rapid rise in Malaysia and beyond, reflecting Skechers’ unwavering commitment to the pickleball community, both at home and across the region.

Open to players of all levels, the international tournament* spans across Men’s and Women’s Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles, with 30 categories across four age groups:

• Junior (U18): Open to players aged 18 and below
• Novice: Open to players aged 19 and above, and 35 and above
• Intermediate: Open to players aged 19 and above, and 35 and above
• Open: Open to players aged 19 and above, 35 and above, and 50 and above

*All matches will be officially recorded under the DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) system – a global standard that measures player performance across events to deliver an accurate, real-time skill level.

Register, Rally, And Claim Your Court Perks

Every registered participant will receive an exclusive Skechers T-shirt, Skechers special-offer voucher, and sponsor’s goodies upon sign-up. Registration fees are as follows:

• Junior U18: RM100 (Per Pax); RM200 (Per Team)
• Novice: RM125 (Per Pax); RM250 (Per Team)
• Intermediate: RM145 (Per Pax); RM290 (Per Team)
• Open: RM185 (Per Pax); RM370 (Per Team)

Top prizes of up to RM3,500** are up for grabs across competitive categories. All participants will receive an exclusive Skechers T-shirt, vouchers, and goodies upon registration.

**Cash prizes are subject to a minimum number of entries per category. The organisers reserve the right to make changes at their discretion.

Champions across all categories stand to walk away with more than just a count toward their DUPR with top prize winners in the Open categories will take home up to RM3,500 cash alongside an exclusive pair of Skechers Viper Court Pro shoes, the very footwear engineered for the court they just conquered. From the rising stars of the U18 Junior category to the seasoned competitors in the 50+ Open, every champion earns a prize worthy of their victory, with cash rewards and Skechers performance gear on the line across all age groups and divisions.

Registration is now open via the Baseline Registration Link. For tournament-related enquiries, please reach out via WhatsApp at +6017-9037300 (Baseline platform hotline) or +6019-8111618 (tournament rules and fact sheet enquiries). The tournament committee will respond within three working days.

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Daesung, WINNER, NMIXX, Win Metawin & More To Perform At Sepang Circuit This May

Get ready for two days of non-stop music with some of the best Asian talents! The 2026 Asia Top Music Festival is coming to Malaysia this May, bringing together 16 acts from South Korea, Thailand, China and Malaysia!

Presented by Hong Leong Bank and organised by JOOX and QQ Music, the 2026 Asia Top Music Festival is a massive two-day music festival highlighting talents from the Asian region. The music festival will take place on 30th and 31st May 2026 (Saturday and Sunday) at the Sepang International Circuit.

SOURCES: INSTAGRAM (@rivolves_)

SOURCES: INSTAGRAM (@rivolves_)

SOURCES: INSTAGRAM (@rivolves_)

SOURCES: INSTAGRAM (@rivolves_)

On 21st April 2026 (Tuesday), the music festival unveiled its Day 1 lineup, which includes an exciting selection of stars. The artists performing on 30th May (Saturday) are NEXT1DE, Aina Abdul, Belle Sisoski, Win Metawin (วิน เมธวิน), NMIXX (엔믹스), WINNER (위너), Daesung (대성) from BIGBANG (빅뱅) and Kun (Cai Xu Kun/蔡徐坤).

The Day 2 performers will be announced soon, with the organiser teasing even bigger names. Additional details, including ticketing and set times, will also be available later. Fans have reacted to the Day 1 lineup, expressing excitement after seeing who will perform at the event. Here’s what we know about the music festival so far:

2026 Asia Top Music Festival in Malaysia

• Dates: 30th and 31st May 2026 (Saturday and Sunday)
• Venue: Sepang International Circuit
• Organisers: JOOX, QQ Music
• Ticketing: TBA

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Stay tuned to this space for more information on the ticketing and the rest of the lineup. Are you already excited for this music festival? Who else are you hoping to see perform?

Source: Instagram

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Kim Jun Su (XIA) To Bring “Gravity” Asia Tour To KL This June

Great news for Kim Jun Su (김준수) fans in Malaysia! The K-Pop icon, who also goes by the stage name XIA (시아), recently announced dates and stops for his upcoming Asia tour – and he’s bringing the tour to Malaysia this June!

On 21st April 2026 (Tuesday), Kim Junsu’s agency, Palmtree Island, unveiled the complete list of stops for his upcoming Asia tour, “Gravity”. The star previously revealed four stops for the tour, teasing that there will be more shows. According to the poster, the tour will have nine stops, including Seoul, Macau, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Singapore and Bangkok.

SOURCE: TWITTER (@Junsu_PALMTREE)

Kim Jun Su’s concert in KL will take place on 28th June 2026 (Sunday). Additional details, including venue and ticketing, will be released later. This upcoming concert marks the singer’s highly anticipated return to KL after 16 years. Given the long wait, it’s no surprise that COCONUTs (Kim Jun Su’s fan club) in Malaysia are excited to see the star back in KL. Here’s what we know about the concert so far:

Kim Jun Su (XIA) “Gravity” Asia Tour in Kuala Lumpur

• Date: 28th June 2026 (Sunday)
• Venue: TBA
• Ticketing: TBA

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Stay tuned to this space for more information on the concert and ticketing. In the meantime, Kim Jun Su is preparing to make his music comeback this June with the release of his fifth full-length album, “Gravity”. The album is his first full-length album in a decade.

Source: Twitter

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Starbucks Malaysia’s Kopi Creator Kolektif Spotlights Homegrown Creative Talent

This World Creativity and Innovation Day, Starbucks Malaysia has announced the Kopi Creator Kolektif (KCK) Class of 2026. unveiling ten emerging Malaysian artists, five musicians, and five filmmakers, selected for a creator development programme featuring industry‑led masterclasses and mentorship. The finalists will present their original music and film teasers on 16th May at Starbucks Reserve IOI Mall Damansara, where one winner from each cohort will receive a prize valued at RM10,000. 

Kopi Creator Kolektif is a creative platform by Starbucks Malaysia designed to support young Malaysian talent by connecting emerging musicians and filmmakers with creative collectives and industry mentors. Rooted in Starbucks “Third Place” philosophy, the programme serves as an incubator for creative growth, with Starbucks coffeehouses providing the space where ideas can be developed, shared, and discovered.  

“At Starbucks, we see our coffeehouses as the ‘Third Place’, a welcoming space where Malaysians can connect, exchange ideas, and feel part of something larger than themselves,” said Zakiah Hanim Md Zaki, Director of Marketing & Loyalty, Berjaya Starbucks Coffee Company Sdn Bhd. “It’s inspiring to see Malaysia’s creative talents come together through Kopi Creator Kolektif. We’re proud to support a campaign rooted in originality and connection by opening our coffeehouses for Malaysian stories to be discovered, supported and celebrated.” 

“A thriving creative culture relies on having room for new voices to emerge, experiment, and grow,” said Adam Zainal, Director, mentor for the Film Cohort, and an alumnus of Multimedia University’s Faculty of Cinematic Arts. “Platforms like KCK matter because they create that room, not only by giving young filmmakers a platform to share their work, but also by allowing audiences and communities to discover the perspectives shaping the next generation of Malaysian storytelling.”

The journey of the KCK Class of 2026: Empowering local musicians and filmmakers by connecting creativity and community

The finalists will go on to participate in a curated development programme designed to support their creative journey from craft to showcase. For the music cohort, Breaking Music will lead the programme with masterclass sessions on their personal brand identity and original songwriting, helping finalists strengthen both artistry and live readiness. Music finalists will also receive access to studio time and industry-grade equipment to help develop, refine, and rehearse their material for the showcase. 

For the film cohort, Weekend Boys Studio and Multimedia University (MMU) Faculty of Cinematic Arts will support finalists through mentorship and guided development sessions, focusing on strengthening storytelling and production craft from concept to screen. 

“We’re proud to be part of this campaign because opportunities like this can make a real difference for emerging artists,” said Isaac Ravi, mentor for the Music Cohort, co-founder of Breaking Music. “Giving back to the creative community matters to us, and it’s a privilege to work with these five finalists over the coming weeks. There’s already a lot of promise in this Class of 2026, and I’m excited to see how they develop as they work towards the chance to record their own EP.”

Celebrating the Class of 2026 with a live showcase at Starbucks Reserve IOI Mall Damansara  

On 16th May, the KCK Showcase will take centre stage at Starbucks Reserve IOI Mall Damansara. At the showcase, each music finalist will perform at least one original song, while film finalists will premiere a teaser from the film concepts they pitched. This will be a moment of discovery where Malaysians can encounter new voices, and creators can step forward with work they have developed through the programme. The winning musician will receive a four-track EP recording deal, while the winning filmmaker will receive the production of their original short film, with each prize valued at RM10,000. 

KCK debuted in late 2025 with intimate live music sessions in a Starbucks coffeehouse featuring 13 homegrown talents such as Amanda Imani, An Honest Mistake, and RESORT. Today, the platform is expanding beyond music to feature aspiring filmmakers, and creating more ways for Malaysians to discover and champion local creativity in Starbucks coffeehouses. 

Through Kopi Creator Kolektif, Starbucks Malaysia continues to create space for Malaysians to pursue their passions, be inspired, and connect with their local community – whether through song, film, or a cup of coffee. 

For more information about Kopi Creator Kolektif Class of 2026 as well as the live showcase, visit Starbucks Malaysia’s official Instagram.

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Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur Appoints Eric Fettke As Executive Chef, Ushering In A New Culinary Chapter

Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Fettke as Executive Chef, effective February 2026. In this role, he will oversee the hotel’s culinary operations across its restaurants, banquet facilities, and in-room dining, guiding the next phase of its culinary evolution.

With over 27 years of international culinary experience, Chef Fettke has built a distinguished career across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Most recently, he served as Executive Chef at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa in Muscat, where he directed culinary operations across three luxury hotels with 15 dining outlets and large-scale banqueting facilities.

Recognised for delivering exceptional dining experiences while driving operational excellence, he combines culinary artistry with strong business and financial acumen, shaped by leading diverse teams in complex international environments.

Among his notable achievements, Chef Fettke spearheaded IHG’s Culinary Task Force during the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in South Korea, where he oversaw the full Food & Beverage operations for the hosting hotel group – ensuring seamless execution at a world-class level.

Chef Fettke’s culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in both heritage and experience. Raised in a German–South African household, his passion for cooking began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he developed an early appreciation for seasonal produce and intuitive cooking. Today, his approach blends European precision with global influences, guided by a strong commitment to seasonality, sustainability, and a farm-to-table philosophy.

At Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, Chef Fettke will focus on refining the hotel’s culinary identity, elevating ingredient quality, and enhancing consistency across all dining experiences. His vision centres on modernising offerings while respecting the hotel’s legacy, alongside fostering a culture of growth, curiosity, and excellence within the culinary team.

“I am delighted to join Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur and be part of such an iconic hotel. My culinary journey across Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia have shaped my perspective, allowing me to draw inspiration from diverse cultures, traditions, and cuisines. This experience has guided my creative approach while deepening my respect for culinary heritage. As I take on this role, I look forward to building on the strong legacy of the hotel and working with the team to create meaningful and memorable dining experiences for our guests.” said Chef Fettke.

General Manager Mr. Daniel Kaeflein added, “We are delighted to welcome Executive Chef Eric Fettke to Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur. His remarkable culinary journey, spanning Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, brings a rare global perspective shaped by diverse cultures, traditions and cuisines. This breadth of experience, combined with his creative vision and deep respect for culinary heritage, aligns perfectly with our commitment to excellence. As Chef Eric joins our team, he builds upon the legacy of distinguished Executive Chefs who have shaped this iconic hotel, and we are excited about the opportunities his arrival brings to our team.”

His appointment comes at a significant time as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, presenting new opportunities to showcase the country’s vibrant culinary landscape. Under Chef Fettke’s leadership, Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur will continue to evolve its dining experiences – celebrating local heritage while delivering refined, contemporary cuisine.

For dining reservations and inquiries, contact +603 2786 2378 or email enquiries email at dining.kl@shangri-la.com.

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(Video) Mike Myers Becomes “Shrek” To Honour Eddie Murphy With Lifetime Achievement Award

It’s no surprise that to honour comedy icon Eddie Murphy for his many achievements in the entertainment industry, one would have to go above and beyond. Thankfully, it seems his “Shrek” co-star and fellow funnyman Mike Myers clearly got the memo.

On 18th April 2026 (Saturday), tons of Hollywood legends gathered to honour Eddie with the AFI Life Achievement Award. The award is the highest honour bestowed by the American Film Institute. Among the previous recipients are director Francis Ford Coppola and actresses Nicole Kidman and Julie Andrews.

SOURCE: TWITTER (@extratv)

SOURCE: TWITTER (@DiscussingFilm)

As per the ceremony’s customs, several of Eddie’s fellow actors and comedians shared remarks to commemorate and pay tribute to the star, including Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock. However, it was Mike Myers who sparked the most laughs during the evening, walking onto the stage as Shrek, donning green makeup with ogre ears on the side of his head.

Mike and Eddie worked together on the DreamWorks franchise, with Mike voicing the titular Shrek and Eddie voicing his friend and partner-in-crime, Donkey. During his speech, the 62-year-old praised his co-star for his work on the franchise, saying, “None of ‘Shrek’’s success could have happened without Eddie Murphy.”

SOURCE: TWITTER (@ToonHive)

@chrisgards

#MikeMyers dressed up like #shrek to honor #EddieMurphy

♬ original sound – Chris Gardner

The actor continued, saying, “Eddie’s character, Donkey, is a masterpiece, as is every character Eddie has created over the years.” Mike also called Eddie “one of the greatest”, adding that he’s honoured to have worked alongside the comedian. He then concluded his tribute, saying, “It is my absolute honour to say and to be able to tell my kids that I got to work with Eddie Murphy.”

Eddie’s AFI tribute will premiere as a special on Netflix on 31st May 2026 (Sunday), with director Spike Lee serving as award presenter and host. At the same time, “Shrek 5” is slated to premiere this July.

Sources: Entertainment Weekly, Twitter

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ASICS SportStyle Unveils ‘The Lab’ — An Immersive Pop-Up Where Innovation Meets Comfort

ASICS SPORTSTYLE unveils The Lab: An immersive, laboratory-inspired pop-up space that brings the ASICS’ comfort story to life. Housed at the Parade Square within One Bangkok from 4th to 5th April 2026, among the highlights were cutting-edge innovations alongside timeless favourites on display such as the ASICS SportStyle GEL-NYC™ 2.0, GEL-CUMULUS ™ 16, GEL-KINETIC™ 2.0 and more.

Mr. Yogesh Gandhi, Managing Director of ASICS Asia, said, “We’re encouraged by the strong growth of the SportStyle category in Thailand, which reflects a clear shift in consumer preferences toward combining style with everyday movement. The launch of our pop-up and campaign is an exciting milestone as we celebrate and connect with the community driving this trend.”

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Step into The Lab for More Energy to Move Body and Mind

Trial the GEL-NYC 2.0 shoes exclusively available on-site and experience its comfort through curated activities from dance workshops to art and photo walk happening over the course of 4th & 5th April. Discover the ASICS Code of Comfort: A SportStyle regional campaign, featuring eight unique voices from across the SEA region, each sharing their personal take on comfort.

The campaign features beloved “Amah” – Taew Usa Semkhum, lead actress from ‘How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’, alongside a diverse cast from across the region—each offering a unique perspective on comfort, redefined through ASICS SportStyle. Visitors can also create their own bespoke scent for a Sound Mind with PAÑPURI, and additionally build their own lab pass holder with charms available exclusively at The Lab.

Mr. Trin Thanakitthiwara, Country Manager of ASICS Thailand, adds, “‘The Lab” creates a unique space for us to deepen our connection with the community, while expressing The Comfort Code through experiences that resonate naturally with modern lifestyles.”

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The Lab’s Two Main Hubs:

The Discovery Hub

Houses the latest SportStyle shoe and apparel highlights, ranging from GEL-NYC™ 2.0 to GEL-CUMULUS ™ 16, GEL-KINETIC™ 2.0, as well as the all-new ASICS x CARNIVAL® GEL-KAYANO 12.1 “PHRA NAKHON” – the fourth collaboration with Carnival, a Thai streetwear brand known for its role in shaping the local sneaker and street culture scene.

Inspired by the identity of Bangkok’s historic district known for its blend of traditional culture and modern street energy, this collaboration shoe is designed under the concept “Hidden Layers of Phra Nakhon” — resulting in a unique take on the ASICS Gel-Kayano 12.1 that reflects the rhythm of urban life, balancing contemporary design with signature comfort. In addition, the SportStyle Apparel unisex range will be showcased to complete the look.

The Shoe Trial and Activity Hub

For the first time, ASICS SportStyle GEL-NYC™ 2.0 shoes will be available for visitors to try and participate in our series of workshops curated to celebrate art, music and movement in comfort. Additionally, vistors can also partake in exclusive activities such as the style cam to embark on a 3-step scent ritual to create bespoke scent, with PAÑPURI.

Discover The Code of Comfort, globally and regionally

This season, explore The Code of Comfort: A new cinematic universe where footwear is designed not only for performance, but for comfort, happiness, and emotional energy. Because movement is not defined by speed or distance alone, but by the feeling of being truly alive.

A Global Campaign Series

Directed by Toshiki Yashiro, the story unfolds through two scientists, Hakase and Mitani, who encounter an unexpected phenomenon: the “Joy Meter” reaching unprecedented levels. This surge is traced back to individuals across Japan experiencing moments of joy through everyday movement while wearing the latest ASICS SportStyle models. From a janitor effortlessly stepping into rhythm in the GEL-NYC™ 2.0, to a dance game enthusiast moving fluidly in the GEL-KINETIC™ 2.0, to a group of dancers expressing themselves freely in the GEL-CUMULUS™ 16—each story reveals a different expression of movement, blending humor with a deeply human perspective. Across six narratives, the film gradually uncovers the essence of The Comfort Code.

Regional Additions

Adding on to this campaign series are six different narratives featuring our regional cast including TH actress Taew Usa Semkhum and producer Eknaree ‘Be’ Wachirabunjong, Singaporean actor Tyler Ten and more.

• A young-at-heart Grandma and her granddaughter
• An office worker
• Chapteh Boys
• Street Dancer
• Elevator Strangers
• The TukTuk Traveller

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(Video) Singer D4vd Officially Charged With First-Degree Murder Of Teen Found In His Car

Days after his arrest for his alleged involvement in the murder of a missing teenager, the District Attorney’s Office has formally charged singer D4vd. The musician is charged with murder, along with charges of sexual abuse and mutilation.

On 20th April 2026 (Monday), D4vd appeared at a Los Angeles courtroom for his arraignment in the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas. The 21-year-old, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, sexual abuse with a child under the age of 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains.

SOURCES: TWITTER (@PopBase)

@abcnews

The Los Angeles County district attorney announced a first-degree murder charge against singer D4vd on Monday in connection with the death of a 14-year-old girl, Celeste Rivas Hernandez. He faces a maximum sentence of life, without the possibility of parole, prosecutors said.

♬ original sound – ABC News – ABC News

When announcing the charges against D4vd, L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said the criminal complaint includes special circumstance allegations, including murder of a witness, murder for financial gain and lying in wait. He revealed that Celeste was a witness in an investigation into the singer for “lewd and lascivious sexual acts” with a person under 14.

Authorities also speculated that D4vd killed Celeste to silence her and protect his music career. If convicted as charged, the singer could face life in prison without parole. Given the special circumstances in his charges, the R&B star could also face the death penalty. However, the DA’s office said it will decide whether to seek it on a later date.

D4vd’s defence attorney, Blair Berk, pleaded not guilty on his behalf during the arraignment. She reiterated his claim of innocence, saying, “We believe the actual evidence will show David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez. We would like to have the evidence come into the light of day.” At the end of the hearing, the judge ordered the singer to be held without bail.

@dailymailau

D4vd appeared emotionless during his first court appearance on Monday, as he wore a black sweatshirt and gray sweatpants. The suspect did not make eye contact with people in the room, which included the victim’s family, as his attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. The severity of the first-degree murder charge makes the singer, 21, eligible for the death penalty if he is convicted. He is currently being held in prison with no bail. Read more at the link in bio. #crime #usa #d4vd #news#fyp

♬ Creepy and tense horror ambient(857662) – MANURE SOUND

The investigation into Celeste’s murder began in 2025 after police found her decomposing body in an abandoned Tesla. The vehicle belonged to D4vd, who would later become a major suspect in the case. While the authorities kept many details of the investigation under wraps, netizens did their own sleuthing to discover that D4vd and Celeste were well-acquainted with each other.

Only time will tell how this court case will conclude. In the meantime, netizens have reacted to the news with mixed responses. While many believed that D4vd is guilty, some still expressed support for his innocence.

Sources: Rolling Stone, Al Jazeera

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