HEALING MEETS HOSPITALITY COMES TO LIFE THROUGH DR WIRA & SISTER MANJA

Dato' Sri Siti Nurhaliza, Brand Ambassador of Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), pictured with Dr Wira and Sister Manja official plushies, following MHTC's strategic collaboration with Tourism Malaysia in conjunction with MYMT 2026 and VM2026.

KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 (Bernama) -- Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) today introduced Dr Wira and Sister Manja, Malaysia Healthcare's healthcare-inspired interpretation of Wira and Manja, the official mascots of Visit Malaysia 2026. Developed in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, the initiative extends the spirit of Visit Malaysia 2026 into Malaysia's medical tourism story, bringing Malaysia Healthcare's brand promise of Healing Meets Hospitality to life while supporting the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 (MYMT2026).

Originally introduced as the official mascots of Visit Malaysia 2026, Wira and Manja were inspired by the Malayan Sun Bear, one of Malaysia's most treasured native species. Beyond celebrating the country's rich biodiversity, the duo embodies the warmth, resilience, friendliness and welcoming spirit that define the Malaysian experience. These qualities have long shaped how visitors experience Malaysia as a tourism destination. Today, MHTC builds on that same foundation by translating these values into the healthcare journey, where patients are welcomed with world-class clinical expertise, compassionate care and genuine Malaysian hospitality.

Recognising the strong alignment between the values represented by Wira and Manja and the Malaysia Healthcare experience, MHTC has reimagined the beloved tourism mascots as Dr Wira and Sister Manja. Rather than creating new mascots, this healthcare-inspired interpretation extends the story of Visit Malaysia 2026 into medical tourism, illustrating how the same Malaysian hospitality that welcomes visitors also accompanies patients throughout their healthcare journey.

While portrayed as a doctor and a nurse, Dr Wira and Sister Manja do not represent individual professions. Instead, they symbolise the entire Malaysia Healthcare ecosystem, honouring the collective contributions of doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, researchers, therapists, patient coordinators, caregivers and hospital support teams who work seamlessly together to deliver safe, high-quality and patient-centred care. Together, they embody the values that define Malaysia Healthcare: world-class clinical excellence, compassionate care, multidisciplinary collaboration, innovation and genuine Malaysian hospitality.

Every patient's journey is unique, yet what many remember most extends beyond successful treatment. They remember the reassuring smile before a procedure, the doctor who patiently explained every step of their care, the nurse who offered comfort during recovery, the patient coordinator who continued to check on them after returning home, and the many healthcare professionals whose kindness made them feel at home while receiving treatment in Malaysia.

These moments of empathy, attentiveness and genuine care, demonstrated by healthcare professionals across the country, have become hallmarks of the Malaysia Healthcare experience. They reflect a culture where healing goes beyond medicine, creating an environment where patients feel respected, reassured and cared for throughout every stage of their journey.
 
"Wira and Manja have become familiar representatives of Malaysia's warmth and hospitality through Visit Malaysia 2026. By reimagining them as Dr Wira and Sister Manja, we are extending that same Malaysian spirit into healthcare, celebrating the people and values that have made Malaysia a preferred healthcare destination. They are not simply characters in medical uniforms, but a reflection of the compassion, professionalism and hospitality that patients experience throughout their healthcare journey,” said Dato’ Suriaghandi Suppiah, CEO of Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council.

With Dato' Sri Siti Nurhaliza serving as the official Malaysia Healthcare Brand Ambassador, the introduction of Dr Wira and Sister Manja further strengthens Malaysia Healthcare's brand narrative under the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026. While Dato' Sri Siti continues to champion Malaysia's healthcare excellence with her trusted voice, authenticity and influence, Dr Wira and Sister Manja complement that role by bringing the Healing Meets Hospitality promise to life through visual storytelling and meaningful public engagement. Together, they reinforce Malaysia Healthcare's commitment to delivering not only world-class treatment but also a healthcare experience defined by compassion, empathy and genuine Malaysian hospitality.

Dr Wira and Sister Manja will make their public debut at selected Malaysia Healthcare engagements throughout the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026. Members of the public can also meet the mascots at the MH Wellness Fair on 16 July 2026 at Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, where they will have the opportunity to participate in a lucky draw to win the exclusive Dr Wira and Sister Manja plushies as well as MHTC X Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza’s exclusive postcard.

Because in Malaysia, healing begins with hospitality, and hospitality begins with people.

SOURCE: Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Name: Muhammad Rasydan Bin Ma’at
Head of Unit, PR and Media Unit
Communications
Tel: +603 8776 6168
Email: rasydan.m@mhtc.org.my
 

Name: Mohamad Shahizam Fauzi

Head, Communications

Tel: +603 8776 6168

Email: shahizam.f@mhtc.org.my 

--BERNAMA

XIONG’AN NEW AREA JOINS GLOBAL DIGITAL ECONOMY CITIES ALLIANCE

KUALA LUMPUR, July 14 (Bernama) -- The 2026 Global Digital Economy Conference Xiongan Future Digital Intelligence Forum was recently held in Xiong'an New Area, attracting more than 600 guests, including academicians and experts, government representatives, research institutions, university delegates, enterprises and social organisations.

At the forum, Xiong'an New Area officially joined the Global Digital Economy Cities Alliance, successfully becoming part of the global digital economy collaborative development partnership network.

This move provides an international exchange platform for the New Area to participate in global digital governance, expand digital cooperation and enhance the international profile of the "Future City", according to a statement.

Two major regional collaborative development initiatives were officially launched at the forum. One aims to establish a Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei collaborative innovation demonstration zone for "AI + Manufacturing", jointly proposed by authorities from the three regions.

The second initiative seeks to integrate education, science, technology and talent development in digital intelligence between Xiong'an New Area and relocated Beijing universities, including Beijing Jiaotong University, the University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing Forestry University and China University of Geosciences (Beijing).

In addition, nine platform carriers under the Xiong'an New Area Digital Economy Innovation and Development Pilot Zone were awarded licences, covering satellite industrial parks, training bases and Zhongguancun Science Parks.

Concurrently, Xiong'an New Area also unveiled six major digital intelligence platforms and seven categories of independently developed digital intelligence products, showcasing the development of its digital economy.

The forum also featured Digital Intelligence Frontier sessions, keynote speeches and high-level dialogues. Domestic and international experts and scholars presented the latest developments in digital intelligence.

Going forward, Xiong'an New Area will use the forum to strengthen cooperation through the alliance platform, promote innovation and further develop its digital economy pilot zone.

-- BERNAMA

Liberty General Insurance Introduces PA Flex: Personal Accident Protection That Flexes With Your Life

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 (Bernama) -- Life today looks very different from a decade ago. Malaysians are living more active lifestyles, travelling more frequently, balancing multiple responsibilities, and navigating an increasingly unpredictable environment. At the same time, rising living costs are prompting consumers to reassess their financial priorities and seek protection solutions that deliver greater value, flexibility, and relevance to their everyday lives.

Accidents and unforeseen events can happen anytime and anywhere, potentially disrupting income, creating unexpected expenses, and affecting the wellbeing of individuals and families. Yet affordability concerns and changing priorities have contributed to a growing protection gap, leaving many Malaysians underprotected against life's unexpected moments.
 
Recognising the need for accessibility and adaptable protection, Liberty General Insurance Malaysia introduces PA Flex, a comprehensive personal accident solution designed to support the way Malaysians live today. Available through our 3 brands, Liberty Insurance, Kurnia Insurance, and AmAssurance, PA Flex provides flexible coverage options that empower customers to choose protection that aligns with their lifestyles, priorities and budgets.
 
Protection That Moves With You
Built around the belief that protection should evolve alongside changing lifestyles, PA Flex offers seven plans, enabling customers to select the level of coverage that best suits their needs and financial circumstances. From essential protection to more comprehensive coverage, customers can tailor a plan that provides meaningful value without paying for benefits they may not require.
 
PA Flex delivers 24/7 worldwide coverage and provides financial protection against a broad range of accidents and unforeseen events, giving customers greater confidence wherever life takes them.
 
Protection for What Matters Most
At its core, PA Flex provides protection against the financial impact of accidents through benefits such as Accidental Death and Permanent Disability coverage, helping individuals and families maintain greater financial security during unexpected situations.
 
The plan also includes coverage for accident-related medical expenses, daily hospital income benefits, compassionate care support, and cashless hospital admission and discharge, helping customers focus on recovery while reducing financial concerns during challenging times.
 
To further enhance personal security, PA Flex includes additional benefits such as protection against snatch theft, kidnapping, and personal liability, providing added reassurance in today's increasingly dynamic environment.
 
For Malaysians travelling during festive seasons or relying on public transport, PA Flex also provides double indemnity benefits for accidents occurring during Malaysian public holidays or while travelling as a passenger on public transport, offering enhanced protection when people are most likely to be on the move.
 
More Than Accident Protection
Beyond providing financial support following an accident, PA Flex is designed to help customers recover and regain stability during challenging times.
 
The plan also includes coverage for accident-related medical expenses, daily hospital income benefits, compassionate care support, and cashless hospital admission and discharge, helping customers focus on recovery while reducing financial concerns during challenging times.
 
Customers can also enjoy additional personal safety benefits, including protection against snatch theft, kidnapping, and personal liability, providing an added layer of security in an increasingly complex environment.
 
For Malaysians travelling during festive seasons or relying on public transport, PA Flex provides double indemnity benefits for accidents occurring during Malaysian public holidays or while travelling as a passenger on public transport, offering enhanced protection when people are most likely to be on the move.
 
Designed for Modern Lifestyles
As Malaysians increasingly embrace active and experience-driven lifestyles, PA Flex extends beyond conventional personal accident coverage to protect customers during everyday activities and recreational pursuits.
 
The plan provides protection against everyday risks such as food poisoning, drowning, insect and animal bites, and accidental suffocation caused by smoke, fumes or poisonous gases. It also covers a variety of lifestyle and leisure activities, including amateur sports, motorcycling, underwater activities and scuba diving up to 50 metres, winter sports, and hunting.
 
Recognising that risks can arise unexpectedly, PA Flex also includes protection against natural disasters, exposure to natural elements, unprovoked murder and assault, disappearance, strike, riot and civil commotion, hijacking, terrorism, and intoxication arising from prescribed medication.

Supporting Financial Resilience in an Uncertain World
As economic uncertainties and evolving lifestyles continue to reshape consumer needs, the role of personal accident protection remains as important as ever. Individuals are increasingly seeking solutions that provide practical financial support and peace of mind when unexpected events disrupt their daily lives.
 
PA Flex reflects Liberty's commitment to making protection more accessible, relevant, and responsive to the realities of modern living. By combining core personal accident protection, lifestyle-centric coverage, and flexible plan options, PA Flex empowers individuals to stay protected with confidence and focus on what matters most.
 
As life continues to evolve, protection should evolve with it. With PA Flex, Liberty Malaysia is helping Malaysians embrace every opportunity with greater confidence, knowing they have dependable protection for life's everyday moments and unexpected turns.
 
For more information about PA Flex and other Personal Accident insurance solutions from Liberty General Insurance, please visit www.libertyinsurance.com.my. 

SOURCE: Liberty General Insurance Berhad 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
GO Communications
Name: Ong Jiun Ee
Senior Brand Manager
Tel: +6012 932 8450
Email: jiunee@gocomm.com.my 

Name: Adelle Lim
Senior Brand Manager
Tel: +6019 952 9209
Email: adellelim@gocomm.com.my 

Liberty General Insurance Berhad
Name: Haliza Hisham
Vice President
Brand & Marketing
Tel: +603 2619 9971
Email: halizah@libertyinsurance.com.my 

Name: Nur Qistina
Specialist
Brand & Marketing
Tel: +603 2619 9873
Email: nurqistina@libertyinsurance.com.my 

--BERNAMA 

RECORD UNVEILS SHARIA-COMPLIANT INVESTMENT PLATFORM

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- Record Asset Management GmbH (RAM), a subsidiary of London-listed Record Financial Group plc (Record), has launched Record Amanah, a platform offering Sharia-compliant investment solutions to institutional investors, as it expands its private markets business.

The platform, developed in partnership with London-based Islamic finance advisory firm Khalij Group, will initially focus on private markets and private equity investments structured in accordance with Sharia principles while maintaining Record's investment, risk management and governance standards, according to a statement.

Record chief executive officer (CEO), Jan Hendrik Witte said the platform builds on the group's experience in delivering Sharia-compliant investment solutions and strengthens its ability to serve institutional clients seeking private market opportunities.

Meanwhile, Khalij Group CEO, Asim Khan said the partnership combines Islamic finance principles with Record's institutional investment expertise and global reach to provide investors with access to Sharia-compliant private market investments.

The launch follows a series of Sharia-compliant transactions completed by Record, including its most recent deal for a client in Brunei, and comes amid growing demand from institutional investors for investments that combine risk-adjusted returns with Islamic finance principles.

Record said the initiative expands its private markets capabilities and supports its strategy of broadening its international client base, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, where demand for Sharia-compliant investment solutions continues to grow.

Record manages approximately US$115 billion in assets for institutional clients worldwide, including pension funds, foundations, sovereign institutions and asset managers. Headquartered in London, the group operates offices in Europe, the United States and Asia. (US$1=RM4.07)

-- BERNAMA

Allianz General makes home protection smarter with multi-year coverage and exclusive rewards

Sean Wang, Chief Executive Officer of Allianz General

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad (Allianz General) continues its 25th anniversary celebration by making home protection smarter and more rewarding with the Smart Home Cover Multi-Year Plan, offering three years of uninterrupted coverage and a complimentary 2-in-1 Hotpot & Barbecue Grill Cooker for eligible policies starting 1 July 2026.

Allianz General’s Smart Home Cover is a comprehensive home insurance solution designed to provide customers with smarter, more flexible home coverage tailored to their needs, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners, tenants and landlords.

With the Multi-Year Plan, customers can enjoy three years of uninterrupted protection with a single premium payment, eliminating the hassle of annual renewals while benefitting from lower premiums.

“Allianz General is committed to delivering value and convenience to our customers. With this campaign, the Smart Home Cover Multi-Year Plan not only ensures long-term protection for your home but also rewards our customers with an exclusive gift,” said Sean Wang, Chief Executive Officer of Allianz General.

With the increasing risks of natural disasters and unforeseen events, safeguarding one’s home is no longer optional, but a high priority. Allianz General’s Smart Home Cover goes beyond basic home insurance, offering a comprehensive, all-in-one solution that includes protection for home structure, contents and even additional benefits such as Mortgage Loan Installment Protection, HomeFix and Landlord Insurance.

Customers who opt for the Multi-Year Plan will not only enjoy lower premiums and uninterrupted three-year protection, but also free reinstatement for the first two valid losses paid under the HouseOwner or HouseHolder components.

To redeem the complimentary exclusive gift, customers can follow the steps below:

1. Contact an authorised Allianz General agent to purchase a Smart Home Cover Multi-Year policy with minimum gross premium of RM1,000. Only new policies are eligible; customers who previously held an annual Smart Home Cover policy and subsequently converted to the Multi-Year option during renewal will also be eligible for the complimentary gift.

2. Provide a valid mobile number and email address to the servicing agent during policy issuance.

3. Receive one (1) complimentary 2-in-1 Hotpot & Barbeque Grill Cooker within 30 working days from the policy issuance date, upon confirmation of delivery address via email.

The campaign will run from 1 July 2026 until the total number of cookers given away reaches 1,000 units. The giveaway is on a first-come first-served basis.

For more information on Allianz General’s Smart Home Cover Multi-Year Plan and this campaign, please visit: https://www.allianz.com.my/personal/home-motor-and-travel/home/smart-home-cover.html

SOURCE: Allianz Malaysia Berhad ​

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Shamala Gopalan
Group Head
Corporate Communications Department
Allianz Malaysia Berhad
Tel: 016.285.0685
Email: shamala.gopalan@allianz.com.my

Name: Gary Mark Nagan
Manager
Corporate Communications Department
Allianz Malaysia Berhad
Tel: 012.367.1450
Email: gary.nagan@allianz.com.my

--BERNAMA

GUEST SUPPLY, HAAN SIGN LICENSING DEAL FOR APAC HOTELS

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- Guest Supply Asia, part of Sysco Corporation, has announced a licensing agreement with HAAN, a personal care brand, to manufacture and distribute HAAN-branded personal care products for hotels across Asia Pacific (APAC).

The agreement combines HAAN’s design-led, refillable approach to personal care with Guest Supply’s product development, manufacturing, distribution and service capabilities for hotel operators, giving hospitality customers easier access to premium, operationally ready products.

Guest Supply senior vice president, EMEA and APAC regions, Gustaf Lantz in a statement said this partnership is a strong fit for the hospitality market in the APAC.

“It combines HAAN’s modern, refillable design and clean formulations with Gilchrist & Soames’ expertise in developing and manufacturing high-quality amenities and Guest Supply’s ability to distribute at scale across the region,” added Lantz.

Under the agreement, Guest Supply will work with HAAN to localise product formats and operational requirements for the APAC hospitality market, supporting consistent brand execution, dependable supply and streamlined ordering for hotel partners.

A travel-centric personal care brand, HAAN is known for practical, portable products designed for life on the go. Its formulas emphasise clean, natural and vegan ingredients, while its refillable systems are designed to reduce single-use plastic waste.

HAAN products are already available in more than 50 countries through thousands of points of sale, including concept and department stores, beauty chains and select travel retail locations.

Guest Supply said the partnership is intended to accelerate availability and service levels for hospitality customers across the region.

-- BERNAMA

HEILONGJIANG TOURISM CONFERENCE TO OPEN IN JIXI CITY ON JULY 8 – 9

The autumn landscape of the Xingkai Lake embankment in Mishan, Jixi City, Heilongjiang Province (drone photo)

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- The eighth Tourism Industry Development Conference in Heilongjiang Province will open in Jixi City from July 8 to 9, under the theme "Integration, Innovation, and Opportunity".

Centred on the theme and guided by principles of simplicity, safety and excellence, the conference aims to build platforms for cultural-tourism exchange and cooperation, innovative applications, and consumption upgrading.

It will showcase Heilongjiang’s ecological beauty, industrial heritage, culinary offerings, and openness, further unlocking the potential of cultural and tourism consumption, according to a statement.

During the conference, Jixi City will roll out a series of curated travel itineraries built around three themes, namely "Ignite the Games, Rock the Lakes", "Drive the Border, Embrace Wellness", and "Explore the Countryside, Learn Through Play".

A range of visitor-friendly incentives will also be introduced, including dining discounts, guaranteed accommodation packages, free admission to scenic spots, and shopping promotions, aimed at enhancing the overall travel experience.

The Department of Culture and Tourism of Heilongjiang Province Deputy Director, Jiang Xingcheng said this year's conference features three highlights.

First, driven by integration, it seeks to build a new landscape for all-for-one tourism by promoting deeper links between culture and tourism with industry, agriculture, commerce and sports, including the development of a signature travel IP linked to sporting events.

Second, driven by innovation, the event will leverage digital and intelligent technologies. A dedicated smart culture and tourism exhibition zone will feature applications such as AI-powered tourism services, metaverse immersive experiences, and digital intangible cultural heritage displays.

Third, as a platform for cooperation, the conference will strengthen international engagement through the Belt and Road Initiative, bringing together government and business representatives from 13 countries and regions and expanding Heilongjiang’s global cultural and tourism partnerships.

-- BERNAMA