Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – RHB Bank, in collaboration with The SHOUT Group/FCB SHOUT, has released its latest Chinese New Year campaign which is based on the true story of Tan Swee Ban, founder of the Peace & Harmony Home, a not-for-profit nursing centre–and details what is the true measure of wealth.

While starting a nursing home is indeed a noble and remarkable act in itself, what made Tan’s heart-wrenching yet inspiring story spread like wildfire all over social media over the past few months was the sacrifices that he made in order to start and maintain the home. 

Told from the perspective of Tan’s mother, the film explores the conflicted emotions of a parent who had to witness and support her son sacrifice his career, his house, his time and even his health in order to serve those who had nothing to offer him in return. 

Abdul Sani Abdul Murad, chief marketing officer of RHB Group, said, “We often associate a person’s legacy with the material wealth that they leave behind, but Mr. Tan’s remarkable story completely flips this notion. He demonstrated that true wealth is measured by one’s actions, which ultimately become their lasting legacy.”

He added, “As Chinese New Year is a celebration that is closely tied to the concept of prosperity, his story feels especially meaningful. Mr. Tan’s selflessness serves as a timely reminder to value not just what we see, but what we feel in our hearts – because that is the kind of wealth that endures for a lifetime. To me, this is the essence of true progress.”

Meanwhile, Tjer, FCB SHOUT’s Executive Creative Director, commented, “When we discovered Mr. Tan’s story, we were immediately moved by the journey of his greatest supporter – his mother. Supporting her son as he chose to sacrifice almost everything in his life to selflessly serve others would be challenging for any parent. And yet, despite being sent to a nursing home by her own son – a scenario that many parents would consider their greatest nightmare – it actually became her source of pride.”

He added, “This poignant conflict of emotions is what makes the story so powerful, and I’d like to extend a heartfelt appreciation to our production partners at D Moving Pictures and GT Records for capturing it so beautifully.”

Lastly, Ong Shi Ping, co-owner and chief creative officer at FCB SHOUT, said, “This story hits home, especially during a season like this when we’re all so focused on pursuing material wealth. This Chinese New Year, as we celebrate prosperity, let’s take a moment to think about the connections we build and the impact we leave behind. At the end of the day, it’s not about what we have, but what we give – that’s the kind of wealth that truly defines who we are and makes this festive season even more meaningful.”

‘Wealth’ was released on 15 January 2025 and is running across all RHB Bank’s social and digital channels in conjunction with the Chinese New Year festive celebration, which starts on 29 January 2025.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Malaysia Airlines has kicked off the new year with the launch of its global ‘Time For’ marketing campaign, encouraging travelers worldwide to embrace the thrill of exploration and make 2025 a year filled with unforgettable adventures. This initiative seeks to inspire people to delve into new experiences, immerse themselves in rich cultural landscapes, and create lasting memories with every trip. 

Positioned as the premier gateway to Asia and beyond, Malaysia Airlines offers outstanding travel experiences underpinned by its signature Malaysian Hospitality. The campaign also highlights Malaysia’s global appeal through initiatives like tram advertising in Melbourne and branded taxis and buses across the UK. 

These efforts support the ‘Visit Malaysia’ 2026 initiative, presenting the nation’s vibrant charm to a worldwide audience.

As part of the ‘Time for’ campaign, Malaysia Airlines is introducing a global sale offering discounts of up to 20% on fares to more than 60 destinations. The promotion runs until 22 January 2025, providing passengers with the opportunity to access a range of services, including personalised onboard dining through the ‘Chef on Call’ menu, premium amenity kits, and the newly launched MH Young Explorers Club, which caters to families traveling with children. This includes features such as priority check-in, family boarding privileges, and kids’ menus, along with activity packs for young travelers.

Dersenish Aresandiran, chief commercial officer of airlines at Malaysia Aviation Group, said, “Our “Time For” marketing campaign is more than just a celebration of travel; it’s an invitation for the world to discover Malaysia and connect to the best of Asia and beyond. Malaysia Airlines is committed to positioning Malaysia as the ultimate gateway to this vibrant region while showcasing the warmth and diversity of our culture.”

He added, “With curated offerings such as our Best of Asia and Chef-on-Call menus and thoughtfully designed in-flight experiences, we’re setting a new standard for memorable journeys that truly embody Malaysian Hospitality. There’s never been a better time to travel with Malaysia Airlines.”

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Spritzer has launched its Chinese New Year (CNY) 2025 campaign, highlighting the importance of open-hearted conversations, combining tradition with a modern touch while bringing loved ones closer together. Moreover, this latest campaign is another reflection of Spritzer’s values which are deeply ingrained into its commitment to creating positive impact in society and doing good for humanity.

At the heart of the campaign is Spritzer’s touching short film, ‘Speak from the Heart’, a tale reminding us to express ourselves with sincerity, respect and understanding, starring actors and brand ambassadors, Koe Yeet and Jaspers Lai with special appearances by Yagood and Jobroseph. 

The film tells a story familiar to many young Malaysians, about a young man named Jasper who is approaching his 30s and feeling the pressure from his family to settle down. With the Chinese New Year festive season approaching and his anxiety rising, Jasper enlists a hairstylist played by Koe Yeet to pretend to be his girlfriend for the day. 

With her humour, quick wit, and ability to hear the inner thoughts of others, Koe Yeet helps Jasper navigate conversations with his nosy aunt turning a potentially stressful situation into a memorable and light-hearted experience.

Spritzer is also offering exclusive gifts with purchases of its high-quality beverage products to add to the excitement of the season. Customers who buy RM38 worth of Spritzer products will receive a free Spritzer CNY Ceramic Bowl, while those who spend RM18 will get a free Spritzer CNY Retro Mug. These special edition items are sure to add a touch of tradition to festive get-togethers.

Lastly, Spritzer’s Natural Mineral Water is also available with a special edition CNY bottle label to add to the festive excitement.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Retailer MR D.I.Y., is ringing in the Chinese New Year with its latest campaign, “Ular-lar,” a playful nod to the Year of the Snake, packed with featured products, deals, and a star-studded web film featuring the iconic Hong Kong actor Benz Hui.

The nearly eight-minute web film, The Family Trial, is a heartwarming family drama with a comedic twist. Set in a quirky courtroom, it follows a father and son caught in a hilarious feud over their Chinese New Year plans. But as the son discovers his father’s secret health issue, the story takes an emotional turn, ending in a heartwarming reunion dinner that highlights the unbreakable bonds of family.

Aside from the web film, MR D.I.Y. has also launched its very first Chinese New Year dance-themed music video, “Ular-lar,” inviting Malaysians to get creative and join in the fun with a dance challenge on social media, and win amazing prizes while spreading festive joy. 

It has also has curated a series of Chinese New Year activities at its stores, while also keeping to its promise of ‘Always Low Prices’. The retailer is rolling out 100 Chinese New Year essentials at selected stores nationwide. The events and activities at will be rolled out across MR D.I.Y. PLUS at Mid Valley, KL,  IPC Shopping Centre, Selangor, and Mid Valley Southkey, Johor Bahru, as well as at community outreach programmes at care homes across the country.

Alex Goh, head of marketing at MR D.I.Y. Group, said, “Chinese New Year is all about reuniting with family, friends and loved ones, often creating a spirit of fun and excitement – all very oooh-la-la!  MR D.I.Y is very much present in homes during this season, and we thought it would be fun to capture this spirit in a ‘Ular-lar’-themed programme, that brings together everything that people love about the season – visiting each other’s home, sharing good times with lots of food, and being entertained.  Our “Family Trial” webfilm, featuring Hong Kong Star Benz Hui Shiu-Hung and our ‘Ular-lar’ theme song and dance steps that Malaysians can dance along to, make it even more festive for everyone.”

He added, “We aim to provide Malaysians with accessible and affordable festive essentials and a fun, enjoyable and rewarding shopping experience. It is all about adding value and making everyone happy.”

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia As Malaysians reflect on the year gone by and prepare for new beginnings, Spritzer Sparkling introduces its latest campaign, “Cabar Dirimu, Cipta Versi Baharu” (Push Your Limits, Redefine Yourself). The campaign inspires Malaysians to adopt healthier habits with Spritzer Sparkling as their ally, making positive changes simpler and more sustainable.

This innovative campaign positions Spritzer Sparkling as the perfect hydration companion for those looking to refresh their routines and embrace wellness—all while indulging in a guilt-free fizzy experience.

Sparkling Wellness: The Perfect Resolution Partner

Spritzer Sparkling’s unique selling proposition is clear: No sugar, no sweeteners, no calories. Made from natural mineral water and infused with natural fruit flavoring, it’s high in silica for health and beauty benefits, with no preservatives.

“Spritzer Sparkling isn’t just a drink—it’s a movement,” said Chan Shiao Chew, head of marketing at Spritzer Malaysia. “By choosing Spritzer Sparkling, Malaysians are taking the first step towards a healthier lifestyle while enjoying the refreshing fizz they crave.”

The campaign’s mission is clear: turn small steps into lifelong habits. Whether it’s switching from sweetened fizzy drinks or indulging in an occasional craving for a healthier fizz, Spritzer Sparkling supports Malaysians in making healthier choices that are easy to sustain.

The Inner Battle: A Relatable Storyline Starring Syafiq Kyle

The campaign’s anchor video features renowned Malaysian actor Syafiq Kyle in an engaging storyline that brings the inner battle of New Year’s resolutions to life.

Set as a dramatic card game, Syafiq faces off against a darker, negative version of himself. The “positive Syafiq” places goal-oriented cards like “Achieve 100k savings” or “Keep a healthy life,” only for the negative self to counter with excuses like overspending, giving up, and indulgence in sugary drinks.

In a triumphant move, Syafiq counters with a game-changing card: Spritzer Sparkling. This moment symbolizes the empowerment that comes with making better choices and defeating unhealthy habits.

The video’s relatable theme, combined with Syafiq’s charismatic performance, positions Spritzer Sparkling as the ultimate ally in overcoming self-doubt and achieving meaningful change.

“Every sip of Spritzer Sparkling represents a victory against unhealthy habits,” said Janice Goh, senior brand manager for Spritzer Malaysia.  “We’re proud to be the brand that helps Malaysians turn their resolutions into realities.”

Amplifying Impact: Reaching Millions with a Message of Change

The campaign taps into multiple platforms to create maximum impact:

Influencer Marketing: Key opinion leaders will share their personal journeys and how Spritzer Sparkling helps them stay on track with their health goals, fostering trust and reliability.

Social Media Ads: Engaging content will educate and entertain, ensuring consumers understand the product’s benefits while staying inspired.

Sponsorship of “Miles with EcoBrown Walkathon”: By aligning with the Walkathon for Diabetes Awareness, Spritzer Sparkling reinforces its commitment to health and community well-being.

The campaign will run for one month at the end of 2024, spanning across Malaysia to ensure a wide reach and sustained engagement during this significant period of reflection and renewal.

Expert Media Global Behind the Story

The creative storytelling and strategic execution of this campaign are led by Expert Media Global, showcasing their ability to blend compelling narratives with actionable brand messaging. Through this collaboration, Spritzer Sparkling delivers a campaign that resonates deeply with its audience while driving impactful results. 

Healthier Choices, Lasting Change

Spritzer Sparkling addresses one of the biggest barriers to New Year’s resolutions: sustainability. By offering a simple and enjoyable switch from sugary or artificial fizzy drinks, the product helps consumers build habits they can stick with.

“Healthier living doesn’t have to be complicated,” said Gavin Lee, brand manager for Spritzer Malaysia. “With Spritzer Sparkling, every sip is a step toward a better version of yourself. It’s about turning small victories into lifelong habits.”

Find out more on: https://www.spritzer.com.my/sparkling_cabar_dirimu

Australia – Oblong, the new creative venture from creative leader Justin Ruben, worked with spiritual organisation Brahma Kumaris to create a series of posters to help people feel a little calmer at the most stressful time of year, the holiday shopping period.

Working together with people inside the Brahma Kumaris, Oblong spoke to psychologists and experts in art therapy to make sure the posters, when viewed and read, gave people a sense of calm.

Data was then used in the media buying process to make sure the posters have been placed in areas where people needed them most and as they felt the most stressed, certain areas of the CBD, shopping precincts, shopping car parks and the middle of suburban shopping centres were chosen.

Gabrielle Martin, director of programs and events at Brahma Kumaris said, “We love the calming shapes created by Oblong and the way they can create a little light for people at this very stressful time.”

Meanwhile, Oblong CCO and founder Justin Ruben commented, “I think we can all admit, this year has been difficult for a lot of people, with the cost of living crisis and various world events. Hopefully these posters can provide people with a little bit of calm, even when they’re running around the streets doing last minute Christmas shopping.”

The Brahma Kumaris are also planning an event at the Sydney Opera House in April which they hope will bring even more lightness to people’s lives.

Vietnam – Audi Vietnam, in partnership with Happiness Saigon, has launched a new campaign for its flagship Q8 2024 model lets potential buyers figure out if they are ‘Truly Audi’ by using EEG (electroencephalogram) technology to track the participants’ brain activity while experiencing the Q8.

With a specialized headset, drivers engage with various aspects of the Q8, including its steering wheel, interior, and even a test drive. At the same time, EEG technology registers real-time brain activity, analyzing emotional responses such as excitement, attention, and interest. This unique “test” reveals whether a driver genuinely resonates with the Q8—ensuring that only those who are truly impacted prove worthy of ownership.

For the agency, the campaign shifts the car-buying narrative from practicality to emotional authenticity. Moreover, through this innovative EEG journey, Audi Vietnam takes the guesswork out of choosing the perfect car and places emotion at the center of the decision-making journey.

Jazz Tonna, creative director at Happiness Saigon, said, “Instead of the owner choosing their car, we also let the car choose its owner. With EEG technology, we can offer buyers a new deciding factor when buying a car: compatibility.”

It is worth noting that in Vietnam, the journey to car ownership is more than just a purchase—it’s a deliberate, sometimes challenging path that demands both research and repeated test drives. For many, selecting a car is a deeply personal decision that requires time to weigh options, explore every feature, and ultimately connect with a vehicle on a meaningful level.

Meanwhile, Ferry Enders, managing director of Audi Vietnam, commented, “We want our customers to feel that Audi DNA and know instantly when the Q8 is their perfect match. Step into the Q8 and let your emotions be the guide—Audi Vietnam invites you to join this experience to discover a deeper connection with every turn and reveal if you are truly Audi.”

Australia – Tourism Fiji has launched a new campaign with Havas Host, Sydney dedicated to Asian travelers and shows how hard it is to look sad in a place where happiness comes naturally. For Tourism Fiji, they want to demonstrate that there is much more to the experience than just tranquil beaches. 

The new campaign recently launched in the Asian market, ‘Happy Passports’ follows two people who know this all too well: Ana, a customs officer at Fiji’s international airport, and Viliame, a local passport photographer. 

Both have noticed a curious phenomenon: it’s hard to look sad in a place where happiness comes naturally. Ana and Viliame’s playful interactions with visitors and locals alike highlight the difficulty of maintaining a serious expression in a place as joyous as Fiji.  

The campaign launched yesterday in Mandarin, Cantonese, English and Japanese; and is  part of a comprehensive global media strategy, spanning OLV, website, audio, and social media in Fiji’s Asian key source markets. 

It will direct audiences to the Tourism Fiji website (fiji.travel) for English speaking travelers in Asia, (visitfiji.jp) for Japanese travelers and (visitfiji.cn) for Cantonese and Chinese speaking travelers. There they can explore the wide range of experiences Fiji offers and discover why it’s the perfect destination to bring a smile to every Asian visitor. 

Srishti Narayan, chief marketing officer at Tourism Fiji, said, “Fiji’s warmth and playfulness is infectious – it’s a feeling that visitors often say stays with them after they leave. Where Happiness Comes Naturally has performed exceptionally well for us globally and with the next iteration, we wanted to celebrate the playful, cheeky side of Fijian culture that leaves travelers feeling lighter and more joyful.”

She added, “It’s a fun reminder that Fiji isn’t just about the stunning scenery—it’s about the joy and warmth you feel from our people and traditions, and the authentic experiences you can have here. We hope it inspires traveler’s from around the world to come and experience it for themselves.”

Meanwhile, Sebastian Vizor, executive creative director at Havas Host, Sydney, commented, “It’s well known that everybody hates their passport photos as we’re all made to look sombre and serious which is the complete opposite to how you’ll feel when you leave Fiji. After just a few days in Fiji amongst the warmth of the people, the rich cultural or the incredible landscape, we noticed people found it almost impossible not to be happy.”

Singapore – Max made its debut across Southeast Asia, Taiwan and Hong Kong with regional activations across seven markets – Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, as well as Taiwan and Hong Kong. 

The series of creative and immersive outdoor marketing efforts showcased the streaming service’s rich collection of blockbuster movies, groundbreaking series, iconic hits, best-in-class real-life stories, and family favourites, inviting fans to feel, experience, and become part of the stories, connecting with local audiences through dynamic and culturally relevant campaigns. 

On November 19, Max celebrated its arrival with a spectacular regional light-up moment across all seven markets. Scenes from Warner Bros. Discovery’s beloved brands and franchises, including ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘House of the Dragon,’ ‘The Last of Us,’ ‘Dune: Part Two,’ ‘Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,’ ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,’ and ‘Barbie’ were projected on prominent buildings and landmarks. 

Moreover, audiences were invited to join in local launch celebrations, where fans in the Philippines explored ‘The Last of Us’ and ‘House of the Dragon’ themed Christmas trees and were treated to a magical Harry Potter Christmas tree light-up countdown by James and Oliver Phelps, followed by an amazing fireworks display. In Thailand, audiences were captivated by a life-size “Krathong” installation during the Loi Krathong Festival, as well as on-ground pop-ups inspired by ‘Barbie,’ ‘Dune: Part Two,’ ‘Friends’ and ‘Harry Potter.’

In Taiwan, pop-ups of iconic Warner Bros. Discovery brands including Game of Thrones and Harry Potter allowed guests to step into the world of their favorite shows. 

Upping the ante, Max also took over prominent train stations, transportation, billboards and building projections across Southeast Asia, Taiwan and Hong Kong, transforming daily commutes into Warner Bros. Discovery-inspired journeys.

To connect viewers in Asia with Max, a series of creative social content brought iconic characters from Max’s loved shows into the heart of each market, incorporating characters into Asia’s vibrant culture, where characters ‘react’ to hyperlocal landmarks, dishes and cultural experiences. 

“The extensive launch campaign generated significant excitement, fostered emotional connections, and positioned Max as the region’s newest streaming experience. The campaign has successfully launched Max on an upwards trajectory in Southeast Asia, Taiwan and Hong Kong, deeply connecting with local audiences in the region,” the streaming service said in a press statement.

There’s a great irony to be told when it comes to our existing communication platforms. These apps, which highlight the different ways we can interact with one another, often feel chaotic, distracting and sadly can drain us mentally with the sheer amount of content we encounter on these platforms. If anything, there’s a greater need today for communication platforms which are very straightforward and are very accessible to use for everyday users. 

Recognising the growing demand for simpler communication platforms, buz, a new social audio app, seeks to bridge this gap with its straightforward and user-friendly design. Through its latest campaign launched across Southeast Asia, buz emphasises the warmth and immediacy of the human voice. 

By offering a simple yet powerful space for genuine connection, the app enables users to feel heard and build relationships that go beyond the limitations of text and visuals.

Simple interface, powerful impact

Buz stands out for its intuitive and minimalist design, centred around a single, vibrant green “push-to-talk” button. This streamlined interface cuts through digital clutter, letting users immerse themselves in the essence of communication—the authenticity in tone, the subtle nuances, and the emotions carried by every word.

Built with accessibility in mind, buz breaks down barriers of language and technical know-how, making it a tool for everyone. Whether young or old, tech-savvy or not, users can engage effortlessly. Features like auto-play on a locked screen ensure that staying connected remains as simple as a tap.

By embracing simplicity, buz tackles the challenges of digital fatigue while championing the need for communication tools that are inclusive, accessible, and truly human.

“We observed a widespread desire for simpler, more intuitive interfaces, leading us to prioritise ease of use and accessibility. This is exemplified by the prominent green button, which is easily identifiable and usable by a broad range of users,” a buz spokesperson told MARKETECH APAC.

Buz’s simplicity is also catered to specific demographics who wish to have constant communication but are limited to their own status quo or conditions. For example, older adults with dexterity challenges find the app easy to use, while those who primarily communicate through non-written languages or dialects value its voice-centric design. Similarly, neurodivergent individuals who might feel overwhelmed by complicated interfaces benefit from its straightforward and accessible approach.

“The focus on voice communication, the most fundamental form of human interaction, encourages more natural and spontaneous conversations compared to text-based platforms. This ensures that buz empowers effortless communication for all, regardless of their technological proficiency or background for a truly inclusive communication experience,” the added.

Tapping into the unique emotional response

The campaign captures ordinary moments elevated by the power of voice. Whether it’s a mother hearing her child’s heartfelt “mama” from miles away or a loved one sharing an off-key yet comforting serenade, the campaign beautifully illustrates the deep connections fostered through real-time audio interactions.

Moreover, buz’s campaign centres on the unmatched ability of the human voice to create meaningful connections. It highlights the emotional depth that vocal communication brings—the warmth of shared laughter, the solace of a familiar voice, and the joy of instant connection that bridges any distance.

“This resonates deeply with buz’s philosophy because it showcases how the platform facilitates authentic human interaction, prioritising the natural and deeply impactful nature of voice over other forms of communication. By focusing on the voice, buz demonstrates its commitment to nurturing meaningful relationships through the most primal and powerful means of human connection,” the spokesperson added.

Using hyperlocal strategies to understand cultural nuances

For buz’s campaign rollout across Southeast Asia, it tapped not just local ambassadors but also took into account how the campaign will play out in the local context.

In Malaysia, buz tapped into the relatable charm of Ain Edruce and her husband, resonating with audiences who value a more traditional perspective on relationships. In Thailand, the youthful energy of debut couple Maylada Susri and Teeradetch Metawarayut appeals to a younger generation, reflecting their evolving views on modern partnerships.

In the Philippines, where the ‘love team’ phenomenon is a cultural staple, buz partnered with Barbie Forteza and David Licauco, leveraging the strong connection and enduring popularity of this iconic on-screen pairing.

“Our campaign acknowledges the region’s diverse cultural landscape, by employing hyper-localised marketing strategies that resonate deeply within each culture’s unique expression of couple dynamics to emphasise the power of voice communication in creating meaningful emotional bonds,” the buz spokesperson said.

They added, “This careful selection of regionally relevant celebrity ambassadors, each reflecting the specific cultural nuances of their respective countries, ensures authentic connection and maximises campaign impact across the region.”

Using technology to accelerate the future of communication

Buz combines the power of the human voice with advanced AI technology, developed in collaboration with OpenAI, to elevate the user experience. Features like instant voice-to-text transcription provide flexibility and discretion when the app is muted, while real-time voice translation bridges language gaps, making buz a truly global and accessible communication platform.

James Lin, CEO of Vocalbeats, the company behind buz, stated, “In today’s world, people are craving genuine connections. Buz prioritises the power of voice, offering a simple and intuitive platform that fosters effortless, real-time conversations. Our AI features only enhance this experience, making voice communication even more accessible and enjoyable.”

With more than 20 million downloads worldwide and a swiftly growing footprint across Southeast Asia, the US, UK, and Europe, buz is set to change the way we connect. Its dedication to innovation and enhancing user experiences is reflected in the establishment of its new R&D and operations hubs in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, reinforcing its status as a global leader in voice-driven social interaction.

“At buz, simplicity is foundational to everything we do. Our growth strategy centres on expanding access to simple and powerful voice communication, adding features thoughtfully to enhance the core experience without compromising ease of use. We’re committed to maintaining an intuitive user experience that fosters deeper connections for our global community, ensuring buz remains accessible and easy for everyone, everywhere,” they concluded.