Jom Sembang, Malaysia

Volunteerism is on the rise these days. But so are the reasons behind people being willing to spend their time helping someone else without getting paid. Some do it as a way of learning new things, giving back to the community, and relieving stress to alleviate depression symptoms. Others, well, we have all encountered some along the way, those who volunteer to produce boasting power for their social media profiles. The question is: have societies begun misusing volunteerism for their own greedy purpose?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Insecurities are uncertainties that make us anxious and move us to do silly things that will ruin us. It has something to do with our lack of confidence in certain areas of our lives.  Like it or not, we all deal with insecurities from time to time. Some are aware of what their insecurities are, others are ignorant or totally unaware because they are in denial about them. How do we deal with our insecurities so that they won’t affect our lives?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Sometimes, it almost feels like everyone has the need to be right at all times. No one would admit when they make a mistake. People just want to do things their way regardless of the outcome. Is being right the most important thing? Is insisting to always be right a way of being dominant and controlling? And does wanting to always be right reflect our personality?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05. 

Music has a great influence in our lives, and more often than not, it is a subconscious powerful influence that guides our behaviors and actions. Whether it is played during physical shopping time or the sound we hear from live streams during online shopping, music is a vital marketing tool to businesses. As such, how do businesses decide on the kind of music to play at their premises? We chat with Dr Joanne Yeoh who did a research study on the impact of musical fit in shopping behavior, focusing very much on cafe businesses. 

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

We are very different people but there are some things that everyone generally views or reasons out the same way, which is known as common sense. Examples of common sense include looking left and right before crossing the road, not to leave a candle burning when you leave the house, or complete the urgent tasks first instead of non-deadline tasks. In this podcast, we discuss theories on why common sense is not common anymore.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

What is the difference between Excellence and Perfection? Does striving to achieve both make us a better person? Does it inspire creativity or kill the great mind? What does it mean to have a perfectionist boss at work? Are we pushing ourselves too hard at work and in everything we do? 

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

In this loud and bustling world, a new keyword has appeared to counter the hustle bustle of life. Defined as doing the bare minimum of one’s job and no longer putting in time, effort, or enthusiasm than absolutely necessary, the buzz word is Quiet Quitting. In today’s episode, we will be chatting about quiet quitting, quiet breaking up, quiet vacationing, quiet living and some other silence related to it.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Those who are good with growing fruits and vegetables are known to have green fingers, while those who kill plants easily are known to have black thumbs. Is it really impossible to grow some food on the balcony of the concrete jungle that we live in? Why are some people moving out of the city to try out sustainable living, and are they succeeding? Join us for a greening chat with Shao-Lyn Low who has gone from not-bothered to very invested in growing food through Eats, Shoots & Roots.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

We should realize by now that everything we search on the Internet or the conversation we have with someone in person triggers a series of related ads that are being fed into our newsfeed for the next few weeks. This is called targeted advertising. As consumers, what do we feel about this? Is the algorithm working for us or against us?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Most people are against working with their friends, especially entering into a business partnership, because history has proven time and time again that the friendship might be stretched beyond repair. But since the 2000s, we see more and more family and friends collaborating at work, entering into partnerships, and more and more of them surviving, in fact thriving both in their bonds and business together. What’s the secret to working together without destroying great friendships?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

More and more people are dying alone. Most people prefer to die in their own bed, but research shows that only a quarter of deaths occur at home. What would you do if you knew your death date? Where and how do you want to spend your last days of life? Is it too much to fulfill a ridiculous wishlist at one’s death bed? Is planning your own funeral too morbid an idea to consider?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

The most common question a musician receives — can you earn a living just by making music — is also the least asked question by those who pay and appreciate good music. So what’s the music scene like in Malaysia? Is it really all struggle and no fame? If you don’t viral overnight, does it mean you are an expired musician? Do you have to sacrifice your values and identity in order to be the musician that everyone loves? In this episode, we chat with Icco Elnoel who is making a living solely through music-making.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Being successful is subjective. Whether it is defined as financial stability or being high up on the corporate ladder, there’s a price to pay. How much are we willing to sacrifice to achieve the type of success we envision for ourselves? In this episode, we focus a bit more on the prices to pay for success in the creative arts industry.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

When we are in our early twenties, we are energetic and full of aspirations to strive for the ‘great life’ we’ve envisioned for ourselves. Sometimes we push ourselves too hard, sometimes we push others away while we are at it. Perhaps sometimes, we wish we could turn back time and do things differently. If we had the chance, what would we tell our younger self?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05

Career breaks – many are afraid to take them in case they return without a job awaiting them. Yet the younger generation is more than happy to take career breaks whenever they desire. The duo chat about career breaks as one of them had taken a year off at the peak of her career. What are the impacts and consequences? And what does one do during a career break anyway?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Doomscrolling, also known as doomsurfing, is the act of spending way too much time scrolling our social media newsfeed on our phones. We might or might not be consuming the contents we scroll, and that’s the scariest part about doomscrolling. Why do we doomscroll even when we know it is not good for us? How does it impact our mental health, and how do we stop? 

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

A trio chat between a Gen X, a Millennial and a Gen Z as we dig deeper to close the gap between generations. In this episode, we try to understand how Gen Zs approach life, communication and dreams. From getting their first jobs to knowing what they look forward to in life, we peel the layers one by one to reveal that Gen Zs are not as self-centered as everyone labels them to be.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

India can be an overwhelming place for first time travellers, but there’s a certain appeal to the land if you can navigate the culture, food and way of life. In this episode, Gina who just got back from India shares some practical tips to help you pack and know what to expect when you arrive. From food to transportation, population density and expectations, at least you’ll know to bring toilet rolls on your first trip.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Working hours are no longer standardized across the industries and countries anymore. Is this a good or bad thing? Where did the concept of 9-to-5 come from, and what was the inspiration behind it? Do flexible hours really work for us in the long run? In this episode, we discuss the pros and cons so that all of us can make better decisions on our working hours.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

In a previous episode, we chatted about being text communicators and verbal communicators. To dig deeper into the texting world, we shall discuss some etiquettes when it comes to texting. How many texting platforms do we use daily? Is there a right way to text? Can we do others wrong in our texting habits? Does the depth of our relationship with the other party affect the way we text them? Let’s find out if we are good or bad texters.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Change is inevitable, but it is getting way out of hand with the rapid development of the world. One minute we have a job, the next we might have lost it. One second we have a car, the next we might have lost it to a flash flood. For some of these changes, we can easily adapt and move on. For others, it might be a life-changing change that will alter our lives forever. In this episode, we chat with Alia Alsagoff who was served with a change that uprooted her entirely from her comfort zone into a new foreign territory.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

The bedtime monsters are coming alive! The said monsters are insomnia, restless legs syndrome, sleep apnea and some others - that have been keeping us awake at night despite how tired we feel. Does scrolling on our smartphones help us to fall asleep faster? Can we resume sleeping after waking up to go to the loo? Are some of these monsters defeatable? In this episode, we discuss sleeping problems and better habits to counter them.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

In today’s high speed world, stress is almost unavoidable. How much of this stress is caused by technology and our so-called need to keep up with the world? Is technology easing our lives while subtly destroying our inner peace? Are we in denial that technology, when not applied properly, can be harmful to us? In this episode, we dissect the pressures that come with digital responsibilities and what we should do to maintain a balance in life. 

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Of course, the direct answer is YES. But how many of us actually live as if we are the main characters in our lives? What does it take to be the main character? Does it include being a people pleaser? Do we have to say YES to everything? How do we take charge of our lives where we don’t compromise ourselves for others? Perhaps the fuel we need is Main Character Energy, and not Main Character Syndrome.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

The gig economy boomed drastically since the pandemic as people everywhere got used to the idea of working from home, working remotely, and being self-employed. But is it as easy as told through success stories? In this episode, we discuss the must-know skills and knowledge for every thriving freelancer – from finance to customer relationship, contracts to work ethics, and much more. Joining us in this chat is Melvin Goh, a professional musician who started off his career through full time freelancing.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

It is harder to earn money than to spend money, though richer ones might disagree. As inflation threatens our wallets, what are some of the ways we can tackle this challenge? What are some good personal financial management habits we should have in life? Does ‘sikit-sikit lama-lama jadi bukit’ still apply in personal finance management?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

It used to be acquaintances, good friends and best friends. But with the world spinning out of hand and so many more things on our plate of life, are we still the kind of friends our friends need? What’s this new term - ketchup friends - all about? Is it better to have many friends or just a precious few? How challenging can it be to maintain a friendship? Are we good friends to others?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

It’s going to be a long spell of heat waves in Malaysia and the temperatures are higher than before. More often than not, we sweat the moment we step out of a cool shower. It’s not only uncomfortable, the heat causes us to feel lethargic, discourages us from doing anything productive, and makes some of us sick. Of course, only those working outdoors or in non-air conditioned rooms feel the burn. How do we survive this heat wave without compromising our lifestyles?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

The pain of loss can be overwhelming in many ways. How do we grieve over the loss of loved ones, dreams and successes, and other important things in our lives? Is grief different when it's a sudden loss compared to a predicted loss that we saw coming way before it happened? Additionally, singer-songwriter Arddley Nicholas joins us and shares about his way of coping with loss through music.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Rest used to be easier when most of us had a 9-to-5 job. After the pandemic, the world opened up to accept remote working which caused all hell to break loose in the Human Resource industry. Most people are working beyond their designated working hours because everyone has different working hours to suit their lifestyles. How then can rest take place properly? Do we feel guilty when we take a break from work? Does what we choose to do during this ‘break time’ constitute real rest?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

When we were growing up, our parents often told us that education is key in ensuring success in life. Were they right? Are bachelor's and master's degree holders really more successful in life? Do certifications matter? And is it fair for them to get a higher salary compared to those who only graduated from high school? What are employers looking for?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

We all have an ideal home in mind; but being able to afford one at the right location with the right floor plan can be a challenge. There are so many factors involved when it comes to owning our own property as well. So is it wiser to rent or purchase a house? What are the risks involved? What are the latest property packages available in Malaysia? 

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Back in the first few decades of Malaysia’s formation, our country experienced the unity and strength of being a multiracial nation. Somehow along the way, we became less race-blind and racism was on a rise especially on the political front. Even so, we cannot deny that being multiracial is part of Malaysia’s DNA. In fact, more and more Malaysians are forming multiracial families. What does being a multiracial family look like in our country? And do we need new family-building policies that support multiracial families? Join us for a chat with Alia Alsagoff about her very multiracial clan.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Cancel culture refers to mass withdrawal of support from public figures or companies that have done things which are socially unacceptable today. What are the pros and cons of cancel culture? If you are an influencer, what will ‘being canceled’ do to your life? Have you canceled anyone before?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Since the birth of social media, some of us have been keyboard warriors, better at communicating via text instead of in-person. The pandemic season turned many shy of in-person verbal communication, creating an increase in text communication instead. How does text and verbal communication influence the way we connect with the people around us? What are the pros and cons of these communication methods? Can we rely on texting only for official matters?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

It used to be that when we meet someone for our first date, we kinda know what we are signing up for; we get to see them, talk with them, read their body language, etc. However, it is different when it comes to online dating; we are getting to know someone behind the screen who might or might not be who they say they are. For those looking for romance, which is the better way forward — online or offline dating? We chat with Grace Yap on her dating experiences in both spectrums.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

A recent local movie ‘Rain Town’ brought up various family dynamics in an Asian context, which got us thinking about how our dreams and family relationships closely intertwine. In this episode, we chat about the relationships between parents and children, why we behave a certain way in life, and how all of this can jeopardise our happiness. 

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

When we travel for short getaways, we might not be able to experience the local community in their daily routines. But when we live with the locals, suddenly there are many differences that pop up and some of these might be shockingly contradictory to our very own beliefs or practices. Here are some stories from our travels to Taipei, Melbourne, and other places around the world!

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Solo Traveling may not be as ideal as ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ moments as it has its own set of risks, but why can’t we solo travel without being labeled as problematic? Should everyone try solo traveling at least once in their lifetime? Can solo traveling be fulfilling? What are some tips and tricks for those who wish to solo travel?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

This episode might very well be one about social etiquette as we discuss the small and big things that people around us do, which annoy us very much. From elevators to escalators, mobile phones to dining tables, can there really be so many annoying things in life? In the first place, why do people watch videos on their phones with deafening volume in public? Where do we draw the line in such matters?

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Most of us have ‘lose weight’ in our new year resolution list, but why so? Are we ashamed of our physical appearance? Do we not like who we see in the mirror? How do we embrace our body and build the confidence to showcase our inner beauty instead – especially in the entertainment and hospitality industry? In this episode, we chat with radio announcer and plus size emcee, Mary Anne Gomes.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Some people are totally fine in their everyday lives. But when festivities come around, a new old friend emerges: loneliness. Do we feel more depressed at certain times of the year? And if yes, how and why so? In this episode, we chat about SAD depression, which stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder. We also explore the paradox of joy and struggle during the holiday season.

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

Overthinking is likely caused by stress and anxiety, but is it something within our control? How does overthinking affect our personal life, social life, working circle and family ties? While overthinking may cause emotional distress, it also changes the way we communicate and do things with other people.

This episode was recorded at AV United.

On 17 December 2023, minister Fahmi Fadzil announced that all imported goods valued under RM500 sold online will now be taxed 10%. How does this affect us as consumers? What about those who have been buying small bulks of products from China to be resold here? Is this a clever way to encourage the sales growth of local products?

This episode was recorded at AV United.

Reflections of 2023: Has Covid season changed our social energy? Do we have to fast-track the three-year recap when we meet up with our friends again? What if they don’t recognise the new person we are now? Should we slow down or progress faster since the world is spinning way too fast now? How do we re-structure our lives for post-Covid days ahead? And health-wise, how has much changed since we took the Covid vaccines? Reflect with us as we enter a brand new year.

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

When something happens and there’s a need for an apology, are you the first to apologise? Even if you’re not in the wrong, do you apologise first? And how do we apologise sincerely? What are the words we should avoid when we are apologising? How important is forgiving when someone apologises to us?

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

When we were kids, we wished to be adults as soon as possible. We saw the freedom, power and appeal in being adults; but we didn’t see the responsibilities. Is adulting just about living beyond 21 years, and what does this freedom mean? Does it really take “moving out of our parents’ place” for us to grow up well? In today’s episode, we explore adulting experiences with pianist Melvin Goh who shares his adulting story as a bachelor, and then later as a husband.

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We’re not talking about pick-pocket; we are referring to the people you keep hidden in your life that even your family members or loved ones know nothing about. Whether it is a relationship or a mere friendship, why do we pocket people? Is it because they are influencers? Is it because if others knew about them, you will get into hot soup? Who are some of the people you pocket in your life?

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

A recent speech by a Parliament member created an uproar in Malaysia when he claimed that single women beyond their prime are a problem. Is it wrong to wait for the right one to come along, or must women simply marry the next man who chooses them? Are single women picky about life partners? What’s wrong with being single anyway?

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

For some who studied in single-sex schools, their first interaction with the opposite sex might be after graduating from high school. Some might be excited at the prospect, while others shiver with anxiety. When the opposite sex is slightly nicer to us, does it mean that he/she likes us? Do our schooling days affect the way we read and communicate with others?

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Is our hometown where we were born, or where we grew up? Is it the place, the food, or the people that define our hometown? Why do some of us prefer to celebrate festivities in cities instead of in our hometown these days? In this episode, we also explore new definitions of a hometown and how it can be a forward-thinking destination in life.

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How many of us have one too many mugs in the kitchen cabinet? How many pieces of clothes is too many for a person? Does this make us hoarders? What are some of the practical ways we can ‘hoard’ less? And what’s an in-between box that might help to declutter our homes? Additionally, is there such a thing as digital clutter?

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Most of us had a pet at least once in our lifetime, especially when we were still kids. There are many benefits of owning a pet, especially in terms of mental health where pets can help a person to manage loneliness and depression. But it also comes with responsibility – how responsible are we towards the animals under our care? Pets can be our best friends, but do we draw the line when it comes to sharing food? And how do we deal with grief when we lose them?

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

One of the reasons the world flocks to the Internet, especially to social media, is to be entertained. Entertainment is no longer defined by popcorn and movies in the cinema; entertainment is now at our fingertips. There are so many options out there – from Netflix subscription to a unique dining experience, and of course, concerts! So how much do we spend on entertainment on a weekly basis? Are we taking care of our mental health through entertainment?

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

It’s easy to get into a routine, to enjoy what we do and excel in it, and simply be comfortable where we are in life. Yet sometimes, in that familiar comfort, lies a question – could there be more to life than this? Most of us are afraid to leave our comfort zone because it creates uncertainty, anxiety and maybe pain. Yet as humans, we crave for growth because growth is the sustenance of our journey.

In today’s episode, we chat with Soul Prince of Borneo – Pete Kallang – about his journey in leaving his comfort zone and stepping into a bigger city to explore possibilities beyond his wildest dreams. We also discuss the familiar growing pains of taking such a leap of faith.

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

We used to be grateful when we were accepted for internship programs. But these days, the rise of the debate between interns and employers about taking advantage and low allowances is raising red alarms. The key questions remain: Should one get paid to learn? What is the purpose of internship? Should internship be abolished? Whether you are an employer or a potential intern, here are some tips to a successful internship experience.

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

We love our food. Whether it is dine-in or homecooked, food is a pleasure of life. But is it true that we eat out more often than we cook our favourite meals at home? And which is more cost-effective and healthy? When we do dine-in, how do we choose the places we go to for food, especially when new F&B outlets mushroom easily these days? What’s the reason behind our dine-in decision?

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It can get overwhelming, especially if you are the patient yourself, to suddenly get a diagnosis of your medical condition and be told to admit to the hospital for further treatment. In this episode, we share the general procedures (including insurance coverage processes) of hospital admission, the dos and don’ts, as well as tips to make your healing journey a better-prepared one.

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Are we the only ones who double-take when it comes to Merdeka Day and Malaysia Day? What is the difference between the two? Could we do with just one of it? That aside, we also peel the petals of Malaysia Madani to further understand the country’s vision moving forward. You’ll be surprised that Malaysia Madani holds more than its weight in directing the country towards a better future. And nope, this episode is not sponsored by the government.

Do you choose a job because of its lucrative benefits or because it is something you are passionate about? How do you balance wealth and happiness in your life? While the perception that money cannot buy happiness and poor people are happier sometimes remains debatable, surely inflation is affecting the equation in this matter. How then can we be happy in life?

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

If we are a little sad, is that considered depressed? If we are sad for a longer period of time, are we having depression? How exactly do we know if we are suffering from depression? We chat with Arddley Nicholas, an artiste who advocates mental health. He shares his journey and what to expect when we reach out for help, and how we can be a better friend to support those who are struggling in their mental health journey. Do note that this episode is bilingual (English & Malay). Kita kan Anak Malaysia!

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“Go die lah!” or “I’m so dead!” or “My boss will kill me!” – It’s somehow easier to be casually proclaiming death in every difficult situation, but when we sit down and chat seriously about deaths and will writing, it feels morbid. Or is it really? In this episode, we share about will writing and what it means to think about death ahead of our time.

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Most of us might have been sceptical when the cashless concept was first introduced to Malaysia. We have parents who insist on paying their bills at the post office to get receipts, and business owners who change banks because they don’t want to download the mobile app to make transactions. What if hackers hack our bank accounts and spend all our money? Here are some reasons we should embrace the cashless world.

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A friend in need is a friend indeed. It is indeed a privilege to be considered a friend by anyone and everyone. But does it mean you should lend money to those who come to you for help? What amount would be considered a loanable amount? What are some steps you can take to ensure this money-loaning business will not ruin your friendship?

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Sometimes we want to live close to our parents. Sometimes we want to live far, far away from them. How does distance change the dynamics of a family? And how do we adapt to the changes and differences? What kind of support can siblings who have migrated out of the country give to those they leave behind? In today’s episode, we have a mystery guest sharing her personal experience in such situations.

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Most of us get anxious before going into the examination hall, even though it might not be our first time taking an exam. So imagine what it is like to take your first exam, which happens to be a major one in your life, after studying for 11 years? Did UPSR and PMR have zero importance in our schooling days? Or did those mini exams actually better prepare us for what lay ahead?

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Do you remember the first time you went on a romantic date? Were you stressing out about your wardrobe, how you smelled, or what to talk about? Who’s supposed to pick up the bill? And over the years, have things changed for your other first dates? What are some of the dos and don’ts in ensuring a memorable date? Last but not least, what does it mean if you don’t hear from the person after a date?

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The irony of having a to-do list for better managing our workload is that the very same list can paralyse us. Is it true that a to-do list reduces stress and improves mental health? Is it really outlining and decluttering our thoughts – saving mental space? If not, should or should we not even begin a list? How has technology changed the way we list our to-dos?

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A certain comedian went viral on social media lately. We decided not to mention her name here to stop giving her unnecessary airtime. But this incident inspired us to discuss the everyday ‘innocent’ jokes we sometimes share and how they make others feel. Are we too quick to make fun of something without realising the weight of it? And as content creators, how far should we go in bringing to light the weight of an issue by making it funny?

Dengue is rising in Klang Valley, and more of us have been feeling sluggish, tired and sick – probably from the heat wave too. After the pandemic, some of us realise that our body is not as strong as it used to be. If you or your family members are admitted to the hospital, here are some tips to ensure a better stay for both the patient and caregivers, so that we will emerge victorious in health. And if you’re visiting a friend, we also share some tips on how to be a much-welcomed visitor.

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So, how many of you missed the chance to purchase concert tickets for Coldplay in Malaysia? Do you remember your first concert experience? Why do we go the extra mile to listen to our favourite artistes perform live? And if you are an artiste, what makes your concert different from others? How do you engage your listeners and make them fall deeper in love with you during your concert – that they follow your music journey after they leave the hall? All these and more concert related insights in this episode!

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Have you been to a book fair? Nope, BBW Book Sales is not considered a book fair. A book fair is where writers, publishers, editors, graphic designers, comic artists, copyright agents, and those involved in the publishing industry gather together to sell and discuss books. What else happens in a book fair? Discover industry insights and some useful tips for your maiden (or next) visit to the biggest international book fair in the country!

This episode is powered by Studio 21:05.

Food is one of the easiest contents to viral on social media. Whether it is a delicious review or a buttery complaint, as long as it’s about food, every Malaysian goes crazy. In this episode, we chat about the food phenomenon of Akka Nasi Lemak, the ongoing discussion about butter and margarine inspired by the Old Town White Coffee Butter Kaya Toast thread, and some other food favourites that have caused chaos in our otherwise ordinary days. So how long will you queue for good food?

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We’ve heard of best friends losing their friendship after traveling together. After all, we get to know someone deeper than before when we have to be with them for more than 48 hours. It’s when we learn that our friends snore louder than jet planes, have weird toilet habits, and must sleep with the lights on. Would traveling make or break our friendships? And how do we remain good friends after a horrible traveling experience together?

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We are not only talking about losing hair or getting grumpy, we also chat about the fear of dying alone or losing our memory. When we look at our parents, do we wish to grow old like them – or otherwise? How do we know if we are earning enough to retire comfortably? What if no one wants to live with us when we turn 80? Do our expectations of life change as we age? Ageing, after all, is inevitable.

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It was a norm to give our parents some allowance upon securing our first employment, but is it still a norm now? And if yes, how much do we give them? Do our parents really need our money anyway? How else can we honour our mother and father besides monetary gestures? Is it more difficult or any different when we move out and have families of our own? Here are some insights on this heart matter.

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The younger generation (born in 2005 onwards) might not resonate with public toilet horror stories because of the luxury they experience now. But back then, did we hold our urge to pee till we got home, or did we head straight to the public toilet when we needed to use one? What about shared bathrooms in homestays and hostels when we travel? Here are some toilet nightmare stories and some good ones too!

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In recent years, Malaysians have seen how climate change is affecting our country – not just in the outskirts, but right here in our cities. Remember the unexpected flood in Shah Alam? How about the heatwave we are currently experiencing? What happened to our straw-free policy at F&B outlets? Why are we back to square one now – just because the pandemic happened? Here are some up-cycling ideas to get us started again.

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It is common knowledge that Muslims fast during Ramadan, but did you know that other religions also practice fasting? Must fasting always be just about refraining from food and re-aligning to God? What do we do during a fast to maintain our sanity or when temptations come? How can we be considerate (or do we even need to be sensitive) towards those who are fasting? Listen to firsthand fasting experiences and know that you are not alone. Here’s sending wishes to you for a peaceful Ramadan.

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What do you do when your neighbour offends you? Even more so when it is an irrational reaction or action in daily happenings such as car park boundaries, trees growing over territories, and usage of shared common space? Where do you draw the line between justice and being a good neighbour? Do we really know our neighbours?

At your workplace, is it important to strive for work performance or to befriend your colleagues? Which would be your priority – building relationships or acing your job? What if you have to choose either one to excel in because balancing both only makes you an average worker? Of course, there is nothing wrong with wanting to be an average worker, but it will be hard watching your colleagues climb the ladder ten times faster!

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been the talk of every corner of the world in the past few months. How will it change the way we do things? Will it take over the world as written in science fiction? What are the new laws approved for the use of AI in the academic field? We chat about how AI might be affecting our bread and butter in the creative industry.

With International Women’s Day coming round the corner, the typical theme of discussion would be comparing men and women. But this year’s campaign theme – #EmbraceEquity – is an inspiration for us to forge equality in workplaces, sports arena, law and human rights, society at large, and of course, at home. How do we give women equality? And why is it important to ensure every individual has equal opportunities to make the most of their lives?

When we start our first jobs, we might be in the same income range. But as years go by, we make different decisions and our spending power begins to differ. Will this gap change the bond we have and how we spend time with our friends? And how do we overcome this gap to strengthen the friendships that matter to us?

Is it about ensuring poor people have access to a nutritious, balanced meal, or is it a gimmick to sell more food? How effective is Menu Rahmah? We also chat about the increasing food price in Malaysia and how people cope with the economic threats.

What would you do if you were given the power to run the country without pay? In this week’s episode, we explore the close relationship between power and money, and how the two change our lives whether we like it or not.

Last-minute cancellation of plans can be an introvert’s dream come true, yet we do want to be invited to parties - not so that we can decline, but so we can build up the courage to be with others. No man is an island after all. How exactly do we survive in a big group of people for long hours as introverts? And how can you, an extrovert, help the introverts feel comfortable? Let’s discuss how we socialize differently so that we can socialize better.

Gong xi, gong xi! Two more days to the Year of the Rabbit and everyone is counting – the markets are crowded, red clothes are flying off the racks, and food ingredients are getting sold out real fast! But are you ready to usher in the Chinese New Year? In this episode, we share some CNY greetings and their meanings, and some must-know ‘rules’ of the festive season.

Have you written your new year resolutions? Are they still the same as before? What do other people have on their resolution list? Find out in this debut episode of Jom Sembang, Malaysia.