Watsons Spearheads Aesthetic Beauty Trend With Strategic JCprogram Expansion Across Asia
Watsons, AS Watson Group's flagship health and beauty brand, strategically positions itself at the forefront of the global aesthetic beauty revolution through accelerating the expansion of JCprogram, an exclusive Japanese clinical skincare brand, across Asia.
Building on its successful debut in Watsons China in 2021, where JCprogram has quickly became the Watsons’ No. 1 aesthetic beauty brand, it expanded into Watsons Taiwan in 2024. Within months of launching in Hong Kong in May 2025, JCprogram became leading exclusive aesthetic brand in Watsons Hong Kong, highlighting the substantial customer demand for aesthetic beauty solutions that go far beyond just derm. This remarkable performance has accelerated Watsons' strategic expansion into Thailand and Malaysia, targeting key growth markets with significant aesthetic beauty potential.
At the exclusive launch ceremony of JCprogram in Malaysia, Watsons welcomed Dr. Nobutaka Furuyama, founder of JCprogram and Japan’s renowned cosmetic surgeon, to commemorate the exclusive partnership with Watsons and the brand’s successful regional expansion. The launch also marked with an experiential facial spa for beauty editors and a preview for celebrities, showcasing the brand’s aesthetic innovations. Exclusive member offers accompany the launch, delivering clinical-grade skincare and added value to its beauty community.
Caryn Loh, Managing Director of Watsons Malaysia & COO of Health & Beauty Asia, AS Watson Group said, "JCprogram's rapid expansion and category leadership demonstrate the extraordinary market appetite for scientifically backed aesthetic beauty solutions. Watsons is strategically positioned to capture the most significant growth opportunity in beauty retail, while delivering breakthrough innovations that meet rapidly evolving customer demands for clinical-grade results."
Aesthetic Beauty Revolution: Three Transformative Trends Reshaping Beauty Markets
This launch capitalises on unprecedented market transformation, as the global aesthetic beauty sector projects explosive growth from USD19.6 billion in 2025 to USD35 billion by 2033, representing a robust 7.5% compound annual growth rate.
The aesthetic beauty landscape is undergoing its most significant transformation, shifting customer preferences from invasive procedures toward sophisticated, non-invasive and science-driven beauty solutions. This evolution is driven by three key trends:
Revolutionary JCprogram Technology Meets Asian Market Demand
Recognising these transformative market dynamics, Watsons has exclusively partnered with JIYUGAOKA CLINIC to launch JCprogram, a revolutionary Japanese clinical-grade skincare brand that directly addresses all these major aesthetic beauty trends through innovative "1:1 Seamless Aesthetic Replication" technology. Founded by Dr. Nobutaka Furuyama, recognised as "Asia's Premier Micro-Aesthetic Surgeon", JCprogram represents the convergence of 30 years of clinical aesthetic expertise with cutting-edge skincare science.
JCprogram's breakthrough approach features three specialised treatment series that replicate professional medical procedures with documented clinical results:
This breakthrough innovation has been developed to democratise access to premium aesthetic treatments across Asia, enabling customers to enjoy high-efficacy experience through convenient, safe, and cost-effective home-use solutions that deliver dual experiential benefits without the risks and costs associated with invasive procedures.
Exclusive Offer at Watsons Malaysia
To celebrate the launch, Watsons members can enjoy an exclusive combo set at RM499 and receive an instant RM20 rebate with a minimum spend of RM499 on JCprogram products. This special promotion is valid from now until 27 October 2025 at selected Watsons stores.
With JCprogram now available exclusively at 36 selected Watsons Malaysia stores, achieving firmer, lifted, and glowing skin has never been easier.
Looking ahead, Watsons will continue to capture aesthetic beauty opportunities across its over 8,000 store networks across Asia to meet evolving customer needs and reinforce its market leadership position, helping customers look good, do good, and feel great through innovative beauty solutions that redefine industry standards.
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NESCAFÉ PAYS TRIBUTE TO MALAYSIANS’ THRIVING SPIRIT THROUGH THEIR EVERYDAY STORIES
NESCAFÉ's "Kental Bersama" song by Black Hanifah presented as an anthem to celebrate resilience and strength
With the “Ngopi Dulu & Kekal Kental Bersama” (“Have a Coffee First & Move Forward Together”), NESCAFÉ rolls out an aspirational movement to share, celebrate and recognize Malaysians’ everyday stories as a tribute to the resilience and strength that inspire the nation to keep moving forward.
Indeed, every Malaysian has a purpose - whether it’s providing for their family, supporting the community or pursuing a personal dream. One thing that unites us all is the spirit to stay strong, to Kekal Kental and to navigate through life’s daily hustles with tenacity, confidence and determination. To celebrate and inspire, NESCAFÉ pays tribute with the debut of “Kental Bersama” song by Black Hanifah, an anthem that celebrates Malaysians’ unwavering determination, honoring the perseverance, family and community values that bind the nation through adversity.
“NESCAFÉ has always been more than just coffee. It has stood alongside Malaysians through both challenges and triumphs. The value embedded in this initiative, our “Ngopi Dulu & Kekal Kental Bersama” acknowledges the unwavering resilience and passion that drive our journey as a nation. We invite everyone to join us in this collective journey of strength, unity and hope as we uplift each other and continue to move forward together,” said Juan Aranols, Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Malaysia.
Three Malaysians whose life journeys embody the spirit to stay strong, or “kekal kental”are featured in this intiative. Dr. Madhu, the beloved figure who epitomises compassion and care, also known as “Dr. Teddy Bear”, has dedicated his evenings to providing healthcare to the homeless in Kuala Lumpur. Kak Dell, a Grab driver and tuition teacher, continues to pursue her dream of becoming a writer, showing that ambition never rests. Black Hanifah, who headlined the anthem, draws from his humble beginnings and his devotion to family as the source of his music and purpose. Together, they were featured alongside Black Hanifah in the “Kental Bersama” music video, reflecting the different purposes that drive Malaysians, bound by the same unbreakable spirit of resilience.
“The song “Kental Bersama” was composed with all Malaysians in mind,” said Black Hanifah. “Its lyrics capture the hustle and hopes we all share whether striving for our families, working for our communities or chasing our own dreams. I am honoured to be part of a movement that uses music to unite everyone, reminding us that we are stronger when we stay kental together. This is a proof that music and NESCAFÉ can bring people together in a meaningful way.”
“Through “Ngopi Dulu & Kekal Kental Bersama”, NESCAFÉ will continue to celebrate Malaysians’ unwavering spirit to stay strong and keep moving forward every day. Being part of Malaysians’ life journey for a brand like NESCAFÉ also means evolving its offerings to meet their demands. Hence, we are proud to introduce NESCAFÉ Triple Shot - our boldest coffee innovation yet, crafted to deliver a strong coffee flavor and boost. We have also seen an increase in the demand for stimulating coffee, reflecting Malaysians’ growing preference for robust brews. This launch reflects our commitment to stand alongside Malaysians in their journey, offering more than just coffee but a source of strength and togetherness,” said Norkhayati Mohamed Hashini, Business Executive Officer of Ready-to-Drink Nestlé Malaysia.
For more information, please visit www.nescafe.com.my, Facebook at NESCAFÉ Malaysia (facebook.com/Nescafe.MY) and Instagram at @nescafe_my.
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SJPP: Strengthening Access to Financing for SMEs Through Government Guarantees
When banks say no, Malaysia’s entrepreneurs need someone bold enough to say yes. Many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) possess promising ideas but lack sufficient collateral or track records to secure financing, as banks are cautious about taking on the credit risk.
That’s where Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan (SJPP) Bhd, a company wholly owned by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOF Inc.) steps in, unlocking almost RM100 billion in SME financing by guaranteeing up to 80% of the risks banks are unwilling to bear. This is a testament to the scheme’s impact.
Acting on behalf of the Government of Malaysia, SJPP manages and administers various government guarantee schemes. It bridges the financing gap by sharing the credit risks banks face when lending to SMEs. Basically, to assist SMEs with insufficient collateral or no collateral to gain access to financing facilities from participating financial institutions (FIs).
SJPP doesn’t lend funds directly. Instead, it gives banks the confidence with a ‘yes’ and additional comfort to give financing by providing additional assurance through guaranteeing part of the risk.
This simple mechanism has facilitated billions in financing since 2009, benefiting more than 100,000 SMEs; driving business growth, job creation, and supporting Malaysia closer to a high-income economy.
So, how does it work? It’s actually pretty straightforward. Apply for a business loan at any bank that works with SJPP. The bank checks if the usual requirements are met and if the business fits under the scheme, that’s when things get moving. SJPP comes in to guarantee a big chunk of the loan, giving the bank the extra confidence it needs to approve the financing.
During the Budget 2025 launch in February, Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah the Minister of Finance II highlighted that the government has allocatedRM20 billion in guarantees through SJPP for SME financing, particularly in the halal, high technology, environmental, social and governance, and tourism sectors. Of the amount, RM5 billion is specifically set aside for Bumiputera businesses to ensure fairer and more equitable growth opportunities.
This model aligns with global practices in countries like Germany, South Korea, and Japan, where government guarantees underpin SME financing and supporting business growth. In Malaysia, SJPP plays this role, working in partnership with the Financial Institutions (FIs) and regulated by Bank Negara Malaysia with oversight of the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to foster a thriving SME ecosystem.
This need became clearer as a result of the collective impact arising from the recent US 19% tariffs on Malaysian imports, expansion of SST, electricity tariff hike, and impending RON95 rationalisation as well as foreign worker levies and wage increases on businesses.
With SJPP guarantee, Malaysia’s SMEs continue to thrive, proving that behind every successful business there is support from the Government via various government guarantee schemes.
If short on collateral but with a strong business, ask a preferred banker this simple question: “Can my loan be guaranteed by SJPP?”. For more information, you may visit SJPP’s website at www.sjpp.com.my.
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LEVEL UP KL 2025 CEMENTS MALAYSIA’S STATUS AS SOUTHEAST ASIA’S CREATIVE GAMES HUB
The Ministry of Digital successfully concluded LEVEL UP KL 2025, Southeast Asia’s premier digital games developers conference, held from 6–8 October at Connexion Conference & Event Centre (CCEC), Bangsar South.
Organised by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation, an agency under the Ministry of Digital, LEVEL UP KL 2025 saw a record turnout of over 2,500 participants from more than 20 countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, the US, UK, and Brazil. The event brought together developers, publishers, investors, and tech leaders-reinforcing Malaysia’s rise as Southeast Asia’s digital games hub with growing global influence.
Now in its 11th edition, LEVEL UP KL is a catalyst for Southeast Asia’s digital games industry. By showcasing Malaysia’s creativity and connecting regional talent to global markets, the event strengthens the nation’s position as a launchpad for innovation and international success.
LEVEL UP KL 2025 also celebrated the global success of Malaysian studios, spotlighting their achievements on the international stage:
These success stories reflect Malaysia’s creative edge, the synergy between local and international studios, and the growing global confidence in our homegrown talent, underscoring LEVEL UP KL’s role in propelling regional creativity onto the world stage.
The three-day event featured a dynamic programme designed to foster industry growth and cross-border collaboration:
As Malaysia prepares to conclude its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, LEVEL UP KL stands as a powerful emblem of the nation’s global digital ambition. By connecting Southeast Asia’s vibrant talent pool with international markets and celebrating regional creativity, the event reinforces Malaysia’s leadership in shaping the future of interactive entertainment.
The success of LEVEL UP KL is a testament to Malaysia’s growing influence in the global digital games industry. It highlights Southeast Asia’s creative talent, connects regional developers to international markets, and reflects a thriving ecosystem where innovation thrives, creativity flourishes, and Malaysian talent leads with confidence on the world stage.
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