APLB Officially Launches in Malaysia - Soothing Ingredients, Exceptional Outcomes
Korean No.1 Best-Seller Now Available at Guardian Malaysia

Tohtonku Malaysia today proudly announces the official launch of APLB, Korea’s science-driven skincare brand, now available at Guardian Malaysia. Known for its philosophy of “Mild Ingredients with The Best Results”, APLB delivers high-performance skincare solutions that are gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

The launch event, held in Subang Jaya, brought together beauty industry leaders, media, influencers, and partners. It was graced by Mr. Randy, founder of APLB, who travelled from Korea to witness this milestone, alongside Tohtonku’s Executive Director, Mr. Jasper Lim, General Manager, Ms. Winnie Pok, Group Finance, Supply Chain & Procurement Lead, Ms. Carol Chong and Ms. Tiffany Choo, General Manager (Commercial) of Guardian Malaysia, the brand’s retail partner.

APLB has earned a loyal global following, ranking as the #1 best seller in Olive Young, Korea’s most trusted beauty store, and #1 best seller on YesStyle in Hong Kong. The brand’s success stems from its unique ability to combine active ingredients such as Glutathione, Niacinamide, and Centella Extract with advanced delivery technology, including Microfluidizer and Wide-Spread Technology.

“Mild Ingredients with The Best Results” reflects APLB’s promise to deliver visible improvements without compromising skin health. The formulations are designed to address whitening, hydration, anti-ageing, and soothing needs, while remaining safe and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.

“Malaysian consumers today are more informed and selective than ever. They want products that work, and they want to understand what goes into them. APLB fits perfectly into this demand - it’s effective, science-backed, and kind to the skin,” said Mr. Jasper Lim during his launch speech.

The brand’s debut in Malaysia will be supported by a series of engaging campaigns, product sampling activations, and educational content aimed at helping consumers choose the right skincare for their needs. The campaign’s “Find Your +2” theme highlights APLB’s core principle: combining the right active ingredients with the right technology for maximum results.

APLB’s full range - including skincare, body care, and cleansing products - is now available at 315 Guardian stores nationwide, prominently featured at the IYKYK bay across some of Malaysia’s most prestigious outlets, including TRX, Pavilion, Mid Valley, and 1 Utama - and also online.

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UNIQLO Redefines the Classics in Its Latest 2025 Fall/Winter LifeWear Collection

East Coast charm, Upstate warmth, and modern comfort take centre this season

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO unveiled its 2025 Fall/Winter LifeWear collection at an exclusive preview at Menara KEN TTDI, presenting a season grounded in the enduring appeal of timeless style. Inspired by Ivy League preppy classics and the resilience of Upstate deep winters, the season reimagines heritage looks through thoughtful layering, rich textures, pops of colours, and evolving silhouettes.

Themed “Revisiting Classics,” the collection brings fresh perspective to familiar styles, blending tradition with modern sensibilities. Staying true to UNIQLO’s LifeWear philosophy of simple, high-quality, and functional clothing designed to make everyday life better.

A Modern Take on Ivy Style

For Fall, the collection draws from the timeless charm of East Coast college campuses like Harvard and Princeton, merging British heritage with American collegiate flair. Even as cities still hold onto the last vestiges of summer warmth, the collection captures the essence of the transition.

UNIQLO celebrates the vibrant energy of young minds within these hallowed and architecturally rich grounds, translating that dynamic coexistence of tradition and modernity into a fresh perspective on iconic style. Think classic layering, preppy tailoring, and youthful energy, all reimagined with clean lines and updated proportions.

Smart layering comes to life with preppy staples, merino wools, sweater vests, and tailored denim. Refined corduroy adds another layer of texture and warmth, all updated with contemporary proportions. Pops of colour and textured fabrics inject character into classic silhouettes, offering stylish nods to tradition that still feel modern.

Upstate Weekend: Winter Ease and Warmth

As temperatures dip and crisp air truly settles in, the collection transitions to the “Upstate Weekend” theme, echoing scenic getaways to lakeside cabins and countryside retreats. Imagine escaping the city's hum for the quiet embrace of the woods, where campfires crackle under starlit skies and every breath is fresh. The look is relaxed and effortless, combining wide silhouettes, fluffy textures, and bold-scale checks in a palette of earthy tones with cheerful pops of colour.

Designed for comfort both indoors and out, the collection includes easy loungewear, voluminous outerwear, and layered styling that capture the warmth and calm of nature while staying contemporary and stylish. For those moments by the fire or simply unwinding indoors, UNIQLO HEATTECH Cashmere pieces provide unparalleled softness and warmth, ensuring comfort is never compromised even in the deepest winter chill.

Modern Comfort, Timeless Knit

Knitwear emerges as one of the key highlights of the season, designed for both comfort and sophisticated style.

1. Merino offers exceptional softness, warmth, and breathability, with a smooth texture and rich, vibrant colour. Specially processed to resist pilling and fully machine-washable, it delivers both lasting elegance and easy care.
2. 3D Knit uses advanced technology to transform 100% cotton sweaters into sculptural pieces that embrace the body with a beautiful silhouette. Meticulously calculated by expert designers, it ensures extraordinary comfort and form that moves effortlessly. Perfect for layering in cooler indoor environments like offices or malls. 
3. The all-time favourite Soufflé Yarn offers light, airy warmth with a soft, itch-free texture. Its gentle comfort makes it a versatile choice for layering, ideal for Malaysia’s cooler indoor settings or effortless styling during travel.

Innovation Woven into Every Thread

UNIQLO continues to elevate everyday essentials through fabric innovation:

1. HEATTECH is a revolutionary fabric that converts body moisture into heat, offering warmth without bulk. This season, the HEATTECH lineup expands with HEATTECH Extra Warm Cashmere. Combining luxurious cashmere softness with HEATTECH’s signature warmth for an elevated, lightweight, and ultra-comfortable cold weather layering.
2. PUFFTECH is made from ultra-fine polyester fibres that efficiently trap heat while staying light and resistant to humidity and moisture. Unlike traditional down, it maintains volume and warmth even when exposed to moisture. This season, PUFFTECH takes on fresh silhouettes in collaboration with JW Anderson and UNIQLO: C, merging functional innovation with distinctive design, perfect for city life and weekend escapes alike.

Guided by a commitment to effortless elegance and versatility, the UNIQLO Fall/Winter 2025 collection centres on warm‑yet‑light fabrics that keep you comfortable during holiday travels. Hero items include HEATTECH layers, PUFFTECH outerwear, timeless Denim and luxurious knits, all designed for easy transitions from crisp mornings to cosy nights.

Also making a seasonal debut is the UT (UNIQLO T-shirt) line, showcases limited-edition graphics featuring beloved pop culture icons, including Magic for All, Sanrio Characters, and Chainsaw Man, bringing a playful and collectable spirit to everyday style.

The preview also featured the latest collaborative collections: UNIQLO and JW Anderson, UNIQLO: C, UNIQLO U, and UNIQLO x COMPTOIR DES COTONNIERS, each delivering bold new interpretations that reflect the spirit of the season.

For more information about UNIQLO’s 2025 Fall/Winter LifeWear Collection, please visit www.uniqlo.com/my.

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TDA-Led RM7 Billion in Performance-Based Contracts Across Govt Agencies

The Technology Depository Agency Bhd (TDA), an agency under the Ministry of Finance Malaysia, has marked significant progress in its Performance-Based Contracting (PBC) efforts, with more than 86 agreements across government agencies now worth a combined more than RM7 billion contracts value.

This reflects Malaysia’s growing push to make government spending more accountable. As of August 2025, these contracts have either been executed or are ongoing, involving several key ministries and agencies. These include the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Defence consisting of: Royal Malaysian Navy, Royal Malaysian Army & Royal Malaysian Airforce, Royal Malaysian Police, Immigration Department, Ministry of Homes Affairs and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agencies.

The achievement is a testament to TDA’s success in the implementation of PBC in government procurement. This was highlighted at the Malaysian PBC Practitioner Workshop 2025, where stakeholders from across ministries and  agencies gathered to experience and strengthen cooperation.

PBC is a method where the contractor’s payment is directly tied to the achievement of agreed-upon outcomes, with rewards for achieving targets and remedies for underperformance.

Under PBC, contracts are no longer about ticking boxes. Payments are tied to delivery of specific outcomes, not routine paperwork anymore. Instead of simply meeting basic requirements, contractors must deliver on agreed service and efficiency targets, ensuring public funds are spent on real results.

“This shows how far we’ve come in moving government contracts from process-driven to performance-driven. By embracing PBC, agencies are showing their commitment to ensuring every ringgit spent brings value to the rakyat,“ said TDA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Sharoul Jambari. 

Introduced in July 2022, the PBC method is compulsory for maintenance, repair and overhaul contracts worth more than RM25 million. The approach has long been practised in the US, Europe, and Australia, and Malaysia’s steady adoption shows the country is raising the bar in performance-driven procurement.

The workshop provided the government bodies an opportunity to share experiences, identify challenges and provide feedback that will help refine future policies under the Ministry of Finance. It also reinforced the importance of inter-agency collaboration, to ensure the contracts deliver both efficiency and long-term benefits for the public.

Additionally, it sharpened policy recommendations, improved agency readiness, and strengthened ties between ministries - while reaffirming TDA’s role as a PBC centre of reference (PBC COR) for all performance-related matters, both contractual and non-contractual.

With more than 86 contracts already in motion, TDA and its stakeholders are looking ahead to the next phase, embedding performance-based practices across more sectors and strengthening public trust in how government spending is managed.

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MB World Group Launches MBW Innexus Industrial City, Setting a Bold Industrial Future for Johor, with Maybank as Financier 

Strategically located within the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone, and financed  by Maybank Islamic Berhad, the RM2 billion development is set to drive cross-border  investment and elevate Johor’s industrial landscape 

MB World Group Berhad, through its subsidiary,  Rising Gateway Sdn. Bhd., has officially launched MBW Innexus Industrial City today, a  freehold heavy industrial development in the fast-growing eastern corridor of Johor Bahru. 

Spanning 732 acres in Tanjung Langsat, MBW Innexus sits at the heart of Flagship D  within the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), a high-impact growth belt  supported by both the Malaysian and Singaporean governments. The launch was  officiated by YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz Bin Ghazi, Menteri Besar Johor, and YB Senator  Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and  Industry Malaysia. 

“MBW Innexus Industrial City marks a bold new chapter for us,” said Dato’ Rohman  Ahmad, Executive Director of MB World Group Berhad. “We believe industrial growth must  be matched with infrastructure, connectivity, and liveability. And that is exactly what we are working to build, not just factories, but a functioning ecosystem.” 

Where Strategic Policy Meets Real-World Opportunity 

Just 6 km from Tanjung Langsat Port and 14 km from Johor Port, MBW Innexus offers  access to sea routes, major highways, and international airports, including Senai  International Airport and Singapore’s Changi Airport. This proximity ensures seamless  connectivity, efficient logistics, and access to ASEAN and global markets. 

As part of JS-SEZ, the development benefits from strong policy and business facilitation  through the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre Johor (IMFC-J).

At the launch event, Rising Gateway Sdn. Bhd. also exchanged a Bilateral Financing  Agreement with Maybank Islamic Berhad for a facility of up to RM635.6 million comprising  Commodity Murabahah Term Financing, Short-Term Revolving Credit-i, Bank Guarantee i, and Derivative-i.  

“This financing package gives MB World Group the flexibility and breadth of options  needed to meet its operational and infrastructure requirements—laying the foundation for  developing a thriving ecosystem at MBW Innexus Industrial City,” said Dato’ John Chong,  Group CEO of Global Banking, Maybank. “We are also offering comprehensive and  customised financial solutions to businesses, especially in the new economy and  advanced manufacturing, keen to establish their operations in this Industrial City. This  collaboration reflects Maybank’s strategy to work with different stakeholders and foster  inclusivity that supports growth across the spectrum, from mid-market innovators to  multinational anchors in the JS-SEZ.” 

In addition, the event commemorated the handover of the Smart Industrial Park Blueprint  for MBW Innexus Industrial City developed by Telekom Malaysia (TM) through its  enterprise and government solutions arm, TM One. The blueprint provides a digital, ESG aligned industrial ecosystem, incorporating high-speed converged connectivity, enterprise  5G, IoT, AI powered surveillance (Vision AI) and cloud solutions (TM Cloud Alpha) that  positions MBW Innexus as a digital-ready industrial city within the JS-SEZ. 

Purpose-Built for Industrial Evolution 

MBW Innexus Industrial City will be supported by robust infrastructure, including a 132kV  main intake station, high-capacity water tank, sewage treatment plant, and wide roads  designed for smooth cargo movement. Supporting facilities also include on-site workers’  hostels, a mosque, stalls, and a communal park, creating an environment where  businesses and communities can grow together. 

Phase 1 of the project featuring 13 industrial plots is scheduled for completion in Q2 2027,  with the overall project projected to generate a Gross Development Value of RM2.025  billion.

A New Launchpad for Malaysia and Beyond 

By combining Malaysia’s cost advantages and land security with proximity to Singapore’s  global financial and logistics ecosystems, MBW Innexus is positioned as a launchpad for  regional expansion. 

Backed by MB World Group’s track record of over 5,000 units delivered across Johor  Bahru, Bandar Penawar and Melaka, MBW Innexus represents a commitment to  sustainable industrialisation and reinforcing Johor’s industrial competitiveness. 

For more information, visit: www.mbworld.com.my 

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