Yes 5G is kicking off the festive season with a bang, offering Malaysians an incredible deal: 999GB of data for just RM1. This limited-time offer is part of the telco’s latest “KAWKAWKAW” campaign that kicked off on November 5th, 2024 and will run until February 5th, 2025.
Source: Yes
With Yes 5G’s prepaid and postpaid offerings, you’ll be able to use this data in multiple ways. You’ll even be able to use the data with your hotspot which is shared with your monthly data quota on certain Yes 5G plans. Here are a few ideas of what to do with 999GB of data at your fingertips:
Gaming: Enjoy up to 50 hours of seamless, lag-free gaming with NVIDIA’s GeForce Now service.
Entertainment: Binge-watch your favorite shows and movies, or stream music for hours on end.
Productivity: Work remotely, attend virtual meetings, and collaborate seamlessly.
Content Creation: Upload high-quality videos and photos, and live stream without worrying about data limits.
The KAWKAWKAW promo will allow you to access 999GB of uncapped 4G and 5G data on Yes’s network. You can also purchase the KAWKAWKAW add-on multiple times throughout the campaign period. However, the data cannot be stacked; you will only be able to buy the add-on after the previous data allocation is depleted or expires.
Amelia Henderson Joins the Yes 5G Family
To make the KAWKAWKAW campaign even more exciting, Yes 5G has partnered with popular Malaysian actress and singer, Amelia Henderson. As the brand’s newest ambassador, Amelia will help spread the word about Yes 5G’s commitment to providing affordable and high-quality 5G services.
SINGAPORE, Nov. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Shengshu Technology officially releases Vidu 1.5, marking the global debut of long-context capabilities similar to those in Large Language Models within its visual model, showcasing a new emergent capability. This is a major upgrade to its groundbreaking multimodal generative models. Vidu 1.5 introduces the world’s first Multiple-Entity Consistency capability, which seamlessly integrates people, objects, and environments to create stunning video effects—something that couldn’t be achieved, until now.
With Vidu’s Multiple-Entity Consistency feature, images with no relation to each other, be it characters, objects and even environments, can be integrated into a single video featuring all three characteristics. Moreover, the resulting generated video from Vidu 1.5 is capable of ensuring visual consistency even with complex inputs that require the processing of multiple subjects or environments – and this has not been possible until today. For example, if Vidu 1.5’s generated video features multiple entities, their unique attributes will remain distinct throughout the footage, instead of character traits that tend to blend or become inconsistent midway.
Multiple-Entity Consistency works by enabling users to upload multiple images—for instance, a photo of a person, an image of a rose detailed outfit, and also a shot of a moped. Vidu 1.5 will combine these images into a single continuous, fluid video featuring the person dressed in a rose-accented shirt, riding on a moped. Or by uploading two images of the same individuals alongside a photo of the pyramids, and using a prompt like “a man looking up at the pyramids,” Vidu 1.5 would seamlessly combine these elements, delivering a cohesive video that aligns perfectly with your expectation.
Taking it a step further, Vidu 1.5 also introduces Multiple AngleConsistency, a feature that allows you to either generate videos using any inputted images as references or by uploading three photos of a single subject. The model ensures visual continuity and fills in missing details, providing a seamless 360-degree view of the subject. The result is a cohesive video that accurately presents the subject from any angle, enhancing realism and dynamic storytelling. And this also applies to facial movements, accounting for a more natural-feeling continuity between subtle facial expressions.
Beyond presenting stronger character emotions, Vidu 1.5 also introduces Advanced Control. This enables greater precision over camera movements, angles, and cinematic techniques, of course without detracting from the visual consistency that would otherwise yield unwanted transitions or skipping between frames. In fact, advanced cinematography styles including adjustable dynamic ranges offer a higher degree of control over speed and scale resulting in complex shots like zooming, panning and tilting or a combination of these.
With Vidu 1.5, we’ve significantly enhanced detail generation and clarity at up to 1080p, bringing to life visuals like never before. For instance, you can now clearly see the intricate patterns on a cake or the vivid texture of a sizzling steak amid flames and oozing red juices. This level of detail transforms the storytelling experience, making every frame richer and more immersive.
Vidu 1.5 expands its appeal to animators and anime creators with Expanded Animation Styles, including Japanese fantasy and hyper-realistic styles. This upgrade caters to both casual creators of short-form content and professional filmmakers, delivering polished, production-ready videos with superior clarity and precision compared to other generative AI platforms.
The breakthrough in Vidu 1.5’s controls lie in major advancements Shengshu Technology has made in semantic understanding. The update offers more nuanced language comprehension, interpreting text prompts with impressive precision and enabling video outputs that better reflect complex storytelling and scene requirements. Last but not least, Vidu 1.5 generates a 4-second clip in just 25 seconds, showcasing Vidu’s ongoing advancements with improving the speed and accuracy of generating video.
“The future of content creation is here, and it is powered by the limitless possibilities of AI,” said Jiayu Tang, CEO and co-founder of Shengshu Technology. “Together, we can ignite a global wave of inspiration, reshaping industries, and democratizing creativity. At the core of this transformation lies the ability for anyone to engage in high-quality content production, unlocking new opportunities and breaking down traditional limitations.”
Founded in March 2023, Shengshu Technology is a leading innovator in deep generative models, specializing in advanced diffusion probabilistic techniques. In 2022, Shengshu introduced the world’s first new technical framework, U-ViT, which explores the fusion of Diffusion Models and Transformer architectures for a wide assortment of multimodal generation tasks. Shengshu Technology made the leap from research to commercialization with the launch of its flagship product, Vidu, in July 2024. This AI video generator enables creators to bring their visions to life, whether for art design, game development, film post-production, or social content creation. Our mission is to develop the world’s most advanced multimodal generative models, seamlessly integrating text, images, videos, and 3D content. We are at the forefront of applying generative AI to art, design, gaming, filmmaking, and social media, with the goal of enhancing human creativity and productivity.
Fujifilm is no stranger to the vlogging and content creation sphere. The company has recently found a niche among content creators and vloggers thanks to its refined approach to mirrorless cameras. This approach is being refreshed again in its most compact and portable form with the Fujifilm X-M5.
The new Fujifilm X-M5 continues Fujifilm’s signature design that mimics classic cameras. With a textured surface that mimics the feel of leather and a coloured accent to complete the look, the X-M5 completes your kit with a little style and flair. The X-M5 is available in Silver or Black. It’s also the lightest entry into the X series coming in at only 355g. The camera achieves this by keeping all the essentials and doing away with components that may add bulk – like the viewfinder. However, they’ve ensured easy visibility with a flip-out digital display that can rotate to face the front making content creation alone a non-issue.
That said, it’s not just about style and design with the Fujifilm X-M5. The new compact camera comes with the X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor. The 26.1-megapixel sensor allows it to shoot detailed pictures and even supports high-resolution video. It supports video shooting at 6.2K resolution at 30p. This is complemented by the X-processor 5 high-speed image processing engine that not only enables high-quality image and video capture but also enables an AI-augmented autofocus that allows you to shoot high-speed objects with ease.
The Fujifilm X-M5 also comes with a film simulation mode that allows it to simulate shooting with different film types. This mode will enable you to simulate up to 20 different looks. It’s one of the cornerstone features of the camera with a dedicated dial on the camera’s body. In addition, the X-M5 also comes with a powerful digital stabilizer that allows you to shoot steady images and video even in shaky conditions.
The camera is also compatible with Fujifilm’s X mount. This opens the doors to exploring more complex shooting experiences with Fujifilm’s wide selection of Fujinon lenses which are also compatible with other X series cameras. However, keeping in line with the thin and compact feel of the Fujifilm X-M5, there are also compact pancake lenses that are also available for the X-M5.
Pricing & Availability
The FujiFilm X-M5 is available in Black and Silver. It will be available for pre-order until 14 November 2024. During the pre-order period, purchases of the camera will come with freebies worth RM1,178 including a 128GB memory card, an LED light and more.
The Fujifilm X-M5 body will be retailing for RM3,948. The kit with an XC15-45mm kit lens will be retailing for RM4,398.
ASUS Malaysia is expanding its ExpertBook lineup, bolstering its ASUS Business offerings. The two new laptops—the ExpertBook P1 and ExpertBook P5—are designed specifically for professionals and businesses in different segments. Both laptops offer a balance of performance, portability, and security.
ExpertBook P1: A Reliable and Affordable Option
The ExpertBook P1 is a more budget-friendly option for professionals who prioritize essential computing tasks. It features a sleek and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around. Powered by the latest Intel Core processors, the P1 delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks.
The new offering under the ASUS Business portfolio comes with a 13th Generation Intel Core i7 Processor with up to 16GB of DDR5 RAM and 512GB PCIe 4.0 Storage. It comes with support for Dual DDR SO-DIMM slots for high performance RAM upgrades and Dual-SSD RAID support for better memory reliability and performance.
In addition to this, the laptop also comes with miliary-grade durability for peace of mind when working on the go. The laptop also comes with a bevvy of AI features that are designed to enhance the user experience. A standout AI feature is the ASUS AI ExpertMeet that helps enhance meeting productivity with on the fly translations, translations and meeting summaries. Key features of the ExpertBook P1 include:
ExpertBook P5: A Powerful and AI-Driven Laptop
The ExpertBook P5 is a high-performance laptop designed for professionals who demand the best. Powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra processors, the P5 offers exceptional performance and AI-powered features.
The P5 is designed to be lightweight and durable – two important factors for people who work on-the-go. It comes with a high-resolution, 14-inch display with a 2.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. The laptop also comes with an enhanced cooling system that ensures optimal performance even under heavy load. It also comes with enterprise level security including TPM 2.0 and BIOS protection.
Like the ExpertBook P1, the Expert Book P5 comes with AI features to help with productivity. However, unlike the P1, the P5 is a Copilot+ for Work PC which comes with Microsoft’s Copilot+ enhancements including features that help with meeting productivity and enhanced security. It is also ready for Microsoft Recall, that will be rolling out later on.
ASUS is also providing 3-year warranty that includes on-site service and 24/7 customer support for the P5.
Pricing and Availability
The ASUS ExpertBook P1 series starts at RM3,799, while the ExpertBook P5 is priced at RM6,859. Both laptops are available now in Malaysia.
Expert, IP Office and Industry Representatives Call for Site Blocking Laws to be Passed
MANILA, Philippines, Nov. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — A new study commissioned by the Motion Picture Association (MPA) showed that Filipino consumers who access piracy sites and services are at severe risk of cyber threats such as identity theft and ransomware. The study found Filipinos are up to 33 times more likely to encounter a cyber threat on the most popular piracy sites compared to legal film and TV websites.
These findings were presented in a study released on 13 November during an anti-piracy symposium organized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE), GMA Network, Inc. and Globe Telecom. ACE, the world’s leading antipiracy coalition, is led by the MPA.
The study was authored by Dr. Paul Watters, Honorary Professor of Security Studies and Criminology, Macquarie University in Sydney.
“As the digital landscape grows increasingly complex, the risks to consumers accessing piracy sites – especially younger consumers – have never been more urgent,” Watters said. “Consumers today navigate an online environment fraught with hidden malware and exploitation, often without realizing the true danger they face. My research highlights the urgent need for effective action to protect consumers, as every click on a piracy site brings not only legal and ethical implications, but significant threats to users’ safety and security. We owe it to the next generation to build a safe and secure internet, which protects young people from cybercriminals.”
To mitigate the risk of consumer harm posed by piracy sites, the study recommends the enactment of proportionate and transparent site blocking laws that will target piracy sites and services, increased funding for Filipino law enforcement to enhance digital forensics and incident response capabilities, and the development of a national awareness and education campaign.
“IPOPHL’s voluntary site-blocking initiative has emerged as a key tool in the fight against digital piracy,” said IPOPHL Director General Rowel Barba. “While it has only been implemented this year, we’ve already disabled access to nearly 20 sites with the help of the National Telecommunications Commission and internet service providers. Nevertheless, a law will institutionalize our site-blocking regime to create more outcomes, unlock the full potential of our creative economy and protect our consumers from the alarming cyber threats of piracy sites. IPOPHL is still hopeful to see a site-blocking law passed soon.”
“The MPA’s experience in almost 60 countries around the world shows that site blocking is one of the most effective tools in our toolbox to combat piracy,” said Karyn Temple, Senior Executive Vice President and Global General Counsel for the MPA. “This is particularly true in jurisdictions like the Philippines, where the most visited sites are run by operators based elsewhere in the world. The enactment of site blocking legislation is the next key step towards protecting Filipino consumers, content creators, and the creative industry in the Philippines and around the world.”
The study also showed that raising consumer awareness and education – particularly with teens and pre-teens – is crucial to mitigating the cyber risks associated with piracy sites in the Philippines.
“The study confirms what we have long feared about online piracy in the Philippines,” said Mr. Joseph T. Francia, First Vice President and Head of International Operations for GMA Network, Inc., an ACE member company. In addition to the negative economic impact to the Filipino entertainment industry, digital piracy has far more serious consequences to the Filipino consumers who are unwittingly exposed to a host of cyberthreats by visiting pirate sites. GMA is committed to continue raising consumer awareness and education on the cyber risks associated with digital piracy.”
“At Globe, we believe in a digital world that is safe and empowering for everyone,” said Yoly Cristiano, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer for Globe, an ACE member. “This study underscores the critical need for collaborative action to protect consumers, especially young people, from the hidden dangers of online piracy. We are committed to working with the government and partners like the MPA, ACE and GMA Network to promote responsible digital citizenship and ensure a secure online experience for all Filipinos.”
The Motion Picture Association (MPA) serves as the leading voice and advocate of the motion picture, home video, and television industries. It works in every corner of the globe to advance the creative industry, protect its members’ content across all screens, defend the creative and artistic freedoms of storytellers, and support innovative distribution models that bring an expansion of viewing choices to audiences around the world. Its member studios are Netflix, Paramount Pictures, Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, The Walt Disney Studios, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Charles Rivkin is Chairman and CEO.
About The Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment
The Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE) is the world’s leading coalition dedicated to protecting the legal creative market and reducing digital piracy. Driven by a comprehensive approach to addressing piracy through criminal referrals, civil litigation, and cease-and-desist operations, ACE has achieved many successful global enforcement actions against illegal streaming services and unauthorized content sources and their operators. Drawing upon the collective expertise and resources of more than 50 media and entertainment companies around the world—including sports channels and associations—and reinforced by the Motion Picture Association’s content protection operations, ACE protects the creativity and innovation that drives the global growth of core copyright and entertainment industries. The current governing board members for ACE are Amazon, Apple TV+, Netflix, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, The Walt Disney Studios, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Charles Rivkin is Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association and Chairman of ACE.
About the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL)
An agency attached to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), IPOPHL was created by virtue of Republic Act 8293 or the Intellectual Property (IP) Code of the Philippines. It is mandated to protect IP and create policies and programs that shape the IP system to be a tool for promoting innovative and creative activities, facilitating transfer of technology, attracting foreign investments and ensuring market access for products.
The IPOPHL sits at the National Committee on IP Rights as vice-chair. It is also an ex-officio member of the National Innovation Council and the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council, which are respectively tasked to foster innovation and creativity in the country.
About GMA Network
GMA Network, Inc. is the Philippines’ leading broadcasting company, which produces the most innovative, most trusted, and top-rating TV programs.
Also known as the Kapuso Network, GMA brings superior entertainment and responsible, unbiased, and timely delivery of comprehensive and accurate News and Information to Filipinos anywhere in the world – through its TV, radio, online platforms and wide array of other media-related ventures: program syndication, film production, music publishing and distribution, set design, audio-visual production, and new media.
Based on Nielsen TV Audience Measurement data from January to September 2024, GMA Network including GTV and other digital channels tallied a combined people net reach of 92 percent or 67 million viewers in Total Philippines. Headquartered in Quezon City, GMA operates a network of 115 TV stations and 21 radio stations throughout the country.
Officially listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange in 2007, GMA Network, Inc. is regarded as one of the most notable organizations that promote sustainability in the country, being the first media and broadcasting company in the Philippines to sign with the United Nations (UN) Global Compact.
Globe Telecom, Inc. is a leading full-service telecommunications company in the Philippines and publicly listed in the PSE with the stock symbol GLO. The company serves the telecommunications and technology needs of consumers and businesses across an entire suite of products and services including mobile, fixed, broadband, data connectivity, internet and managed services. It offers innovative digital solutions in the areas of fintech, healthtech, adtech, climate tech, shared services and venture capital. In 2019, Globe became a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact, committing to implementing universal sustainability principles. Its principals are Ayala Corporation and Singtel, acknowledged industry leaders in the country and in the region.
Honor continues to solidify its position in the mid-range smartphone segment, consistently offering devices that balance innovation and practicality. The Honor X9c embodies this approach with a focus on durability and everyday usability. This model is distinguished by its reinforced curved OLED display, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, while also boasting an array of features aimed at delivering a reliable and versatile user experience.
In this review, we’ll explore the Honor X9c in detail, evaluating its performance, design, and feature set to determine if it delivers on its promise of affordability without compromise. Most importantly, we’ll address the question that matters most: “Does the Honor X9c offer the right mix of value, durability, and features to earn your hard-earned money?”
Design
The Honor X9c presents a design that is both visually appealing and practical, achieving a balance that caters to a broad spectrum of users. Its design elements emphasize elegance, durability, and usability, making it a noteworthy addition to modern smartphones.
Aesthetically, the Honor X9c demonstrates a refined approach. The curved edges of the display flow seamlessly into its frame, providing a sleek and cohesive appearance. This curvature not only enhances the phone’s visual profile but also improves its grip, contributing to a comfortable handling experience. The metallic finish, reminiscent of titanium, adds a sophisticated and polished touch, reflecting the brand’s commitment to premium design. These elements are complemented by a minimalist rear camera module encased within a circular bezel, which adds a unique and distinctive character to the device without appearing overly ornate.
In terms of durability, the Honor X9c has made notable strides. Its build incorporates enhanced resistance against drops, water, and scratches, ensuring that the phone can withstand everyday wear and tear. The materials used, such as robust glass and metallic accents, are chosen with both resilience and aesthetics in mind. This combination provides a reassuringly sturdy feel without sacrificing the phone’s slim and lightweight profile, measuring 7.98mm in thickness and weighing just 189g.
Material selection further underscores the phone’s focus on durability and tactile appeal. The smooth metallic frame and glass surfaces are not only visually appealing but also ergonomically designed to sit comfortably in hand. The attention to ergonomics is evident in its balanced weight distribution, which minimizes fatigue during prolonged usage.
The Honor X9c delivers a design that is ergonomic, reliable, and visually distinctive. Its curved display and metallic finish enhance both aesthetics and usability, while its lightweight and slim profile ensure ease of handling. The durability features mark a clear improvement, addressing common concerns for smartphone users. However, as with any design, concessions exist. While the curved edges add visual allure, they may compromise screen protection compared to flat displays. Overall, the Honor X9c’s design stands out for its thoughtful integration of elegance and robustness, setting it apart in its segment.
A Focus on Durability
The Honor X9c is engineered with durability as a central design pillar, ensuring it withstands the demands of everyday life while retaining its sleek appearance. The blend of material selection and structural innovations underscores its commitment to resilience.
One key element of the Honor X9c’s durability is its fortified glass construction. The front and back are crafted using advanced glass technologies designed to resist scratches and withstand minor impacts. This makes the phone better equipped to handle accidental drops or contact with abrasive surfaces, an area where many smartphones fall short. The curved edges of the glass, while primarily aesthetic, are also built to distribute force more evenly in case of accidental drops, reducing the likelihood of cracks. However, it’s worth noting that curved displays can sometimes be more vulnerable than flat ones due to their extended surface area, though Honor has implemented measures to reinforce this.
The phone’s frame is another testament to its durability. Made from a robust metallic alloy, the frame offers structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight form. This alloy strikes a fine balance between rigidity and flexibility, helping the device absorb shock during accidental falls. The metallic finish is treated with a coating that resists corrosion and wear, ensuring the phone maintains its polished appearance over time.
In addition to its material choices, the Honor X9c includes features aimed at protecting the device from external elements. Its design incorporates water resistance, which shields the internal components from accidental splashes or exposure to moisture. While it may not be fully waterproof, this added protection provides peace of mind for users who encounter unpredictable environmental conditions.
Furthermore, Honor has taken steps to enhance the device’s resistance to thermal stress. The materials used in the construction are carefully chosen to withstand temperature fluctuations, reducing the risks of warping or internal damage in extreme climates. This is particularly advantageous for users living in regions with varying weather conditions.
Finally, the design includes subtle reinforcements, such as strengthened corners and well-sealed ports, which collectively contribute to the phone’s durability without compromising its aesthetic appeal. These design choices reflect Honor’s effort to create a device that is both stylish and rugged.
Hardware
Honor brings durable and capable hardware to the midrange smartphone segment with the Honor X9c. Designed to balance functionality with affordability, the device incorporates key features typically seen in higher-tier models. Its hardware aims to meet practical user needs while offering reliable performance at a competitive price point.
GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO A2DP Bluetooth 5.1, LE,
OTG Support USB 2.0 (Type-C)
NFC
Camera
REAR: Dual Sensor:108-megapixel (Wide)
f/1.8, 1/1.67″
Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF)
Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
5-megapixel (Ultrawide)
f/2.2
LED Flash
HDR
Panorama
4K Video recording (30fps) 1080p Video recording (30fps)
FRONT: 16-Megapixel (Wide)
f/2.5
1080p (30fps)
Sensor
Accelerometer Ultrasound Proximity Sensor Fingerprint (Optical, under display) Gyroscope Compass
Miscellaneous
Dual SIM
Retail Price (Malaysia)
MYR1,499 (256GB + 12GB) MYR1,699 (512GB + 12GB)
Retail Price (EU)
EUR€429 (256GB + 12GB)
EUR€469 (512GB + 12GB)
User Interface
The Honor X9c’s interface, powered by MagicOS 8.0, significantly influences the overall user experience by emphasising both functionality and adaptability. Its gesture-based navigation enhances the usability of the phone, offering a seamless and modern method of interacting with the device. While this may require some adjustment for those unfamiliar with gestures, its integration into the interface makes navigation more efficient once mastered.
The AI-powered Magic Capsule and privacy tools, such as the AI Eraser, streamline daily interactions and provide added security. For users who value efficiency and data protection, these features enhance the experience by addressing practical needs. However, the effectiveness of AI predictions may vary, influencing the degree to which they improve usability for different users.
Features like one-handed mode and multitasking capabilities address usability challenges associated with the phone’s large screen. These additions cater to diverse user scenarios, such as operating the phone in constrained settings or managing multiple apps simultaneously. They not only improve convenience but also ensure that the phone can adapt to various usage patterns.
Customization options and eye comfort settings further contribute to the phone’s user-centric design. By allowing users to personalize the interface and reduce strain during prolonged use, these features promote a sense of control and long-term comfort, enhancing the overall experience.
The interface of the Honor X9c has a positive impact on user experience and usability by offering a well-rounded combination of innovative tools and practical features. While the adaptability of certain elements depends on user preferences and learning curves, the interface as a whole aligns with modern expectations, making the Honor X9c both functional and user-friendly. This thoughtful integration of features makes it appealing to a wide range of users, from multitaskers and professionals to privacy-conscious individuals and those seeking customization in their devices.
Performance
The Honor 200 Pro is no slouch when it comes to specifications. However, hardware specifications are only part of the equation. What’s more important is the interplay of software and hardware which is more obvious in the performance overall. Let’s be honest, hardware-wise, the Honor 200 Pro isn’t the pinnacle we’re looking for. However, it’d be foolish of us to write it off just based on that.
Multitasking & Productivity
The Honor X9c, operating on MagicOS 8, presents a balanced approach to multitasking performance, leveraging both its hardware and software to create a capable and responsive user experience. Its combination of processing power, memory configuration, and software features enables effective management of multiple tasks, making it suitable for users with diverse multitasking requirements.
At the heart of the Honor X9c’s multitasking capability is the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, a mid-range chipset known for balancing performance and energy efficiency. The processor provides sufficient power for running multiple applications simultaneously, ensuring smooth transitions between tasks and minimizing delays during operation. While it is not a flagship chipset, it is well-optimized for daily multitasking activities, supporting a reliable and consistent performance.
The phone’s memory configuration further enhances its multitasking potential. It features 12GB of physical RAM, supplemented by an additional 12GB of virtual RAM. This effectively expands the memory pool to a combined 24GB, enabling the device to handle demanding applications and maintain multiple processes in the background without significant slowdowns. For instance, users can switch between resource-heavy apps, such as video editing tools and web browsers, without experiencing lag or app closures.
MagicOS 8 plays a critical role in complementing the hardware with multitasking features. The split-screen mode allows users to run two applications side by side, which is particularly useful for productivity tasks like researching while drafting documents or managing a calendar alongside communication apps. Additionally, floating windows offer the flexibility to keep a compact app window active over other tasks, enabling quick interactions such as replying to messages or referencing information.
In terms of user experience, the combination of hardware and software makes multitasking on the Honor X9c intuitive and efficient. The device maintains responsiveness even with multiple apps running, providing a seamless workflow for users. However, during prolonged periods of intensive multitasking or when operating several resource-heavy applications simultaneously, the phone may exhibit a slight increase in temperature. While this thermal buildup remains within acceptable limits and does not severely impact performance, users engaging in high-demand activities should be aware of this tendency.
The Honor X9c with MagicOS 8 offers a well-rounded multitasking experience, supported by a capable processor, generous memory allocation, and practical software enhancements. The integration of features like split-screen mode and floating windows significantly improves usability, catering to professionals, multitaskers, and productivity-focused users. While minor thermal increases may occur during extended heavy usage, the overall performance remains reliable and consistent, delivering a positive and functional experience for those who prioritize multitasking on their smartphones.
Call Quality & Connectivity
The Honor X9c provides a comprehensive range of connectivity features, focusing on call quality, Wi-Fi performance, and mobile network capabilities, including 5G. While its hardware is well-suited for maintaining connectivity, network conditions in Malaysia influenced some aspects of its performance.
The Honor X9c delivers reliable call quality with clear audio during voice calls. Its microphone system effectively reduces background noise, maintaining intelligibility even in louder environments. Additionally, the earpiece provides consistent audio clarity at varying volumes, ensuring calls remain comfortable and clear. However, the overall call performance, as with most smartphones, is dependent on the stability of the network, which may vary based on location and carrier.
The device supports Wi-Fi standards 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, allowing it to connect to both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. This dual-band functionality provides users with flexibility, offering better range on 2.4GHz and faster speeds on 5GHz networks. The phone demonstrates strong Wi-Fi performance in close to moderate proximity to routers, making it suitable for most home and office environments. However, as expected, performance diminishes in areas with physical barriers or interference, which are common challenges faced by most devices.
The Honor X9c supports 5G connectivity, enabling fast data speeds on compatible networks. In Malaysia, however, 5G performance proved inconsistent. While the phone performed well in areas with strong 5G signals, delivering fast download and upload speeds ideal for activities like streaming and video calls, connectivity was spotty in some regions. This is likely attributable to the current state of 5G coverage and infrastructure in Malaysia rather than a limitation of the phone itself. When outside 5G coverage, the Honor X9c transitions to 4G LTE networks, where it maintains reliable speeds for standard browsing and messaging.
The device also features Bluetooth 5.1, enabling stable wireless connections with peripherals such as headphones and wearables. Additionally, NFC support facilitates contactless payments and quick pairing with compatible devices. These features enhance the versatility of the phone’s connectivity.
The Honor X9c performs well in terms of connectivity, with reliable call quality, stable Wi-Fi performance, and robust support for 5G. The device’s dual-band Wi-Fi ensures compatibility and solid performance for most use cases, while its mobile network capabilities shine in areas with established 5G infrastructure. However, spotty 5G connectivity in Malaysia highlights the dependency of performance on local network quality and coverage. Despite this limitation, the phone remains a solid choice for users seeking versatile and dependable connectivity features in their daily activities.
Gaming
The Honor X9c provides a balanced gaming experience, with performance reflective of its hardware capabilities and pricing strategy. While it caters well to casual gamers and handles various titles effectively, the limitations in performance highlight a trade-off made to achieve its competitive price point.
During testing, Diablo Immortal demonstrated adequate but constrained performance on the Honor X9c. On max settings, the game struggles during high-intensity scenes, such as when multiple monsters swarm the player, resulting in noticeable lag that disrupts gameplay fluidity. To achieve smoother performance, settings need to be adjusted to medium, with Anti Aliasing disabled and shadows and reflections simplified. These changes improve responsiveness and allow the game to run more smoothly, though they come at the expense of visual fidelity.
Other titles, including Asphalt 8, Pokémon UNITE, and Marvel SNAP, performed significantly better. These games ran with minimal to no issues, maintaining consistent frame rates and responsive controls. However, games like Pokémon UNITE and Asphalt 8, which demand greater graphical power, also pushed the phone’s hardware, causing it to become noticeably warm during extended sessions.
The Honor X9c relies on software optimizations and basic hardware cooling mechanisms to manage thermal performance. During prolonged gaming sessions, especially with graphically demanding titles like Diablo Immortal, Asphalt 8, and Pokémon UNITE, the phone becomes very warm. While the device does not overheat to critical levels, the increase in temperature affects user comfort during handheld play. The thermal management system is adequate for light to moderate gaming but less effective during heavy use, reflecting the limitations of its hardware setup.
The Honor X9c delivers an acceptable gaming experience, with performance and thermal management reflective of the price-conscious design choices. While casual games like Marvel SNAP perform seamlessly, more demanding titles such as Diablo Immortal require reduced settings to run without issues. The phone’s hardware, including its processor and cooling system, faces challenges during prolonged sessions with high-performance games, leading to increased warmth. These compromises highlight the trade-offs made to maintain an affordable price point, positioning the Honor X9c as a suitable option for users seeking versatility rather than high-end gaming performance. For those prioritizing consistent gameplay without thermal concerns, the Honor X9c is best suited for light to moderate gaming scenarios.
Battery Life
The Honor X9c offers commendable battery performance, with its high-capacity 6,600mAh silicon-carbon battery providing sufficient longevity to meet diverse user needs. The phone balances strong battery life with rapid charging capabilities, making it suitable for both regular and intensive use.
With regular usage, including tasks such as web browsing, social media, and video streaming, the Honor X9c delivers an average battery life of approximately 10 to 13 hours on a single charge. For gaming sessions, which demand higher power consumption, the battery lasts around 4 hours before requiring a recharge. In standby mode, the phone maintains exceptional energy efficiency, lasting close to 20 hours, making it reliable for users who rely on infrequent but consistent access throughout the day. These figures underscore the device’s capacity to handle varied use cases, from casual to more demanding scenarios.
The inclusion of silicon-carbon technology enhances the battery’s energy density and retention, allowing for consistent performance across different usage patterns. This technology ensures that the device maintains a stable charge duration over time, even with prolonged use.
The Honor X9c supports 66W fast charging, which significantly reduces downtime. In practical terms, the device can reach approximately 50% charge in 20 minutes and a full charge in just under an hour, depending on usage conditions. This quick-charging feature adds convenience for users with dynamic schedules, ensuring the phone can be rapidly recharged during breaks. Additionally, the phone’s charging system manages heat effectively, maintaining safe and stable temperatures during the charging process.
The Honor X9c strikes a balance between battery longevity and efficient charging, making it well-suited for daily use. With 10 to 13 hours of active use, around 4 hours for gaming, and up to 20 hours on standby, the device offers versatility across different usage patterns. The addition of fast charging enhances its practicality, particularly for users who need their device ready in minimal time. While high power-demand activities like gaming shorten battery life, the overall performance remains consistent and dependable, highlighting the Honor X9c’s capacity to meet diverse user needs effectively.
Display
The Honor X9c features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display that delivers a balanced combination of colour reproduction, brightness, and responsiveness. Its display is designed to provide a practical and visually appealing experience for various types of use, from general browsing to media consumption and gaming.
The AMOLED technology ensures accurate and vivid colours, with high contrast ratios and deep blacks. This makes the display well-suited for viewing photos, videos, and other media, as well as tasks where precise colour representation is important. Colours appear consistent and natural, providing a satisfactory visual experience.
The display achieves a peak brightness of 1,200 nits, which helps maintain visibility in outdoor conditions and under direct sunlight. Text and visuals remain legible in most scenarios, though glare and reflection may still affect visibility in particularly bright environments. These results are consistent with expectations for displays in this category.
The 120Hz refresh rate enhances the fluidity of the user interface, contributing to smoother scrolling, animations, and transitions. This higher refresh rate is beneficial for activities such as gaming and watching fast-paced video content. Users have the option to reduce the refresh rate to conserve battery life, providing additional flexibility based on their preferences.
The Honor X9c’s AMOLED display offers a good balance of features, including accurate color reproduction, sufficient brightness for outdoor use, and a high refresh rate for smoother performance. While some visibility challenges may arise under strong glare, the display performs well overall, meeting expectations for usability and quality. It provides a versatile viewing experience suitable for a variety of tasks and environments.
Cameras
The Honor X9c features a versatile camera system tailored for everyday photography, with components designed to deliver solid results across different scenarios. While the setup offers advantages, it also demonstrates limitations that users should consider.
The rear camera system centres around a 108MP primary sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS). Under optimal lighting conditions, the primary camera captures detailed and vibrant images, ensuring clarity and strong colour reproduction. However, the images often lack the depth and bokeh effect that users have come to expect from modern smartphone cameras. This absence can leave compositions appearing flat compared to competitors in the same segment.
In low-light environments, the main camera’s performance declines significantly. Despite the presence of OIS, photos captured in dim settings often appear blurry and struggle with noise. This limits its usability for nighttime photography or indoor scenes with poor lighting, where clarity and sharpness are essential.
The camera system also includes a 5MP ultrawide lens, which is designed for capturing broader scenes. While it adds flexibility to the setup, its lower resolution compared to the primary sensor impacts image detail and sharpness, particularly in demanding scenarios. The ultrawide lens performs best in well-lit conditions, as low-light performance introduces noticeable grain and reduced detail.
A notable omission is a dedicated telephoto lens, limiting the system’s optical zoom capabilities. The reliance on digital zoom can result in reduced image quality when focusing on distant subjects, which may not meet the needs of users seeking robust zoom functionality.
The front-facing camera is equipped with a 16MP sensor, providing good performance for selfies and video calls under adequate lighting conditions. It produces natural colours and decent sharpness, making it suitable for casual use. However, like the main camera, its performance deteriorates in low-light settings, where noise and loss of detail become prominent challenges.
The primary strengths of the Honor X9c’s camera system include its 108MP sensor, which excels at capturing detailed images in bright conditions, and the flexibility provided by the ultrawide lens. The front camera is adequate for typical usage, such as selfies and virtual meetings. Features like OIS improve stabilization in photos and videos, but cannot fully compensate for the performance gaps in low-light scenarios.
On the downside, the camera system’s low-light performance remains a weakness, especially with blurred and noisy images from the main sensor. The lack of depth and bokeh in photos affects aesthetic appeal, and the absence of a telephoto lens limits zooming capabilities. These shortcomings may impact users seeking a more comprehensive smartphone photography experience.
The Honor X9c’s camera system delivers good performance in well-lit conditions, particularly with its 108MP primary sensor, while offering versatility through its ultrawide lens and front camera. However, low-light performance leaves images blurry and introduces noise, highlighting areas for improvement. The lack of depth and bokeh in photos and limited zoom functionality further emphasize compromises in the system. For casual users prioritizing daytime photography, the Honor X9c is a dependable option, but advanced users seeking standout performance across all scenarios may find the system less satisfying.
Durability takes centre stage, supported by middling specifications, but it could be the difference users are looking for
The Honor X9c excels with its reinforced curved OLED screen, which boasts enhanced durability, offering resistance to drops and scratches—a feature that sets it apart in its class. Combined with its Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, 120Hz AMOLED display, 108MP main camera, and 6,600mAh silicon-carbon battery, the device provides reliable performance across multitasking, gaming, connectivity, and everyday use. While it does have some limitations, such as spotty 5G connectivity in certain regions, low-light camera performance, and warmth during extended gaming sessions, these compromises align with its price point, ensuring it remains an affordable and practical choice.
The Honor X9c is well-suited for users seeking a smartphone that emphasizes durability, versatility, and dependable performance. It not only addresses key expectations in its category but also provides added reassurance with its robust build, making it a reliable companion for daily life, even in challenging environments.
This article was based on an interview with Mr Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia; Ms Levana Sani, Co-Founder and CEO, Nalagenetics and Ms Kamonlawan Chomchopbun, Product Manager and Market Access Lead, NalaGenetics.
Personalized medicine marks a turning point in healthcare, where treatments and preventive care are tailored to an individual’s unique genetic makeup. The approach seems very daunting with genetic testing becoming one of the key components, however, companies like Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich) and NalaGenetics are forging ahead to not only make it a standard but the norm. NalaGenetics, an innovative startup specializing in genetic testing is one of the finalists of the Zurich Innovation Championship (ZIC). As part of its journey in the ZIC, NalaGenetics has the unique opportunity to work with Zurich. This collaboration is breaking new ground by co-creating solutions that could revolutionize how healthcare and insurance work together to deliver preventive care that is both personalized and efficient.
As healthcare and treatment options become more data-driven and proactive, Zurich and NalaGenetics are showing how co-creation and innovation can lead to powerful outcomes that improve individual health and reshape the broader insurance landscape. The collaboration also allows Zurich to be ahead of the curve and adopt a more agile approach to its key businesses.
The Zurich Innovation Championship: Catalysing Change and Empowering InsurTech Agility
Let’s start at the very beginning of this collaboration with the Zurich Innovation Championship (ZIC). Founded in 2018, the ZIC was designed to connect Zurich with startups that offer cutting-edge solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in the insurance industry. At its core, ZIC accelerates innovation by working with agile, experimental startups like NalaGenetics, which can bring fresh perspectives and technical prowess to Zurich’s century-old business.
Source: Zurich
“The Zurich Innovation Championship is about bringing innovative thinking and technology closer to Zurich. We work with startups like NalaGenetics to deliver faster, more effective solutions that can fundamentally change how we connect with our customers.”
Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia
As Zurich seeks to maintain its competitive edge and better serve its customers in a rapidly changing world, the ZIC enables the company to tap into external innovation. Since its inception, the ZIC has seen over 7,000 submissions, resulting in over 70 pilots, 50 active initiatives, and a presence in over 30 countries. The collaboration with NalaGenetics in Malaysia stands as a prime example of how Zurich uses co-creation to solve real-world problems and modernize its offerings.
NalaGenetics Spearheading Genetic Relevance in Healthcare with Personalized Medicine
Let’s talk a little about NalaGenetics, one of the winners of the recent ZIC. NalaGenetics was founded on the belief that genetic testing could radically improve how patients are diagnosed and treated, particularly when it comes to drug metabolism, disease prevention, and overall health management. The company specializes in creating genetic tests that can predict how individuals will respond to medications, helping physicians tailor treatments more accurately to reduce adverse reactions and improve health outcomes.
In a world where medications are often designed based on a “one-size-fits-all” approach, NalaGenetics offers a much-needed alternative. Genetic testing can reveal how certain populations, such as Asians, metabolize drugs differently. This is even more pertinent with recent studies showing an increasing disparity between genetic populations and treatment efficacy. One such study highlights that 40-50% of Asians don’t respond well to the commonly prescribed anti-platelet medication Clopidogrel. It goes on to present data that shows that this population also sees an increased risk of cardiovascular events when prescribed Clopidogrel.
By leveraging genetic data, NalaGenetics allows physicians to make better-informed decisions, prescribing appropriate medications and lifestyle adjustments to their patients. But, as NalaGenetics’ founders quickly realized, providing genetic information alone isn’t enough—it’s essential to ensure patients take action based on these insights. That’s where NalaGenetics’ holistic approach comes in, combining genetic testing with physician-guided prevention programs to help patients improve their health outcomes.
Shaping the Future of Health and InsurTech with Co-Creation
As part of the Zurich Innovation Championship, Zurich in Malaysia and NalaGenetics entered into a unique collaboration that involves the co-creation of a solution that can impact the healthcare and insurance industries. Unlike traditional collaborations where a startup might deliver a product and then step aside, Zurich and NalaGenetics have adopted a more collaborative approach. Over a 3- to 6-month accelerator phase, both companies worked together in an agile, co-creative process to design a solution that aligns with Zurich’s goals of delivering personalized, preventive care through its life insurance and family takaful products.
“Co-creation is key to what we do,” Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia emphasized. “We don’t just invest in these startups. We work together, Zurich and NalaGenetics experts, in an iterative, agile manner to find solutions that solve real-world problems.”
During this period, both companies collaborated closely, sharing relevant data, insights, and expertise. They tested different product models, gathered customer feedback, and refined their offerings based on real-world data. The pilot program initially targeted existing Zurich Malaysia customers, offering genetic testing followed by personalized health advice from physicians. This was then expanded to new customers, with a focus on integrating preventive care into Zurich’s life insurance policies.
The co-creation process allows Zurich to respond to the market’s evolving needs, particularly as more customers seek health solutions that go beyond traditional insurance. The feedback from both customers and Zurich agents in Malaysia has been overwhelmingly positive. Agents, who initially approached the program cautiously, were so impressed after trying the service themselves that they became enthusiastic advocates, helping to drive customer interest and engagement.
Championing Personalized Medicine and Creating a New Standard in Healthcare and Insurance
The integration of personalized medicine into insurance is one of the most exciting developments in both industries. Genetic testing is becoming a crucial tool in preventive healthcare, allowing doctors to tailor treatments to individual patients and prevent costly medical conditions before they arise.
As part of their collaboration, Zurich and NalaGenetics aim to make personalized, preventive care a cornerstone of Zurich’s health insurance offerings. The aim is to enhance health outcomes and decrease long-term insurance claims by managing health risks at an early stage.
Source: NalaGenetics
“It’s about more than just selling a product—it’s about giving customers the tools they need to live healthier, longer lives. Even when we design products, we meet the doctors in the middle, we always ask them whether or not this truly benefits care – is there a true clinical decision point that we helped them address?”
Levana Sani, Co-Founder and CEO, Nalagenetics
In practical terms, the program involves offering genetic tests to customers, followed by regular consultations with physicians to discuss the results and make necessary lifestyle adjustments. For example, if a patient’s genetic test reveals they are at high risk for cardiovascular disease, their physician can prescribe preventive measures, such as changes in diet or early medication interventions, to mitigate the risk before it becomes a serious issue.
The Benefits of Co-Creation: Early Results from the Pilot
The benefits of leveraging genetic testing and insights in this co-creation process are already apparent. During the pilot phase, Zurich Malaysia and NalaGenetics tested their product on a group of customers, gathering valuable data to refine their approach. One of the key takeaways was the high level of customer interest in genetic testing—80% of surveyed customers expressed a desire to undergo genetic testing, and 90% were willing to participate in associated health programs.
Customers also appreciated Zurich’s move away from traditional insurance or takaful products toward something more personalized and proactive. During the interview, Kamonlawan Chomchopbun, Product Manager and Market Access Lead at NalaGenetics who works on the ground with the Zurich Malaysia team, shared that even agents are empowered by the solution. The impact of the co-created solution was so immense that the agent shared, “It’s not just about offering coverage anymore—it’s about caring for the customer’s overall well-being.”
Feedback from customers participating in the program revealed that they valued having a deeper understanding of their health risks and felt empowered to take preventive action. In one notable case, a patient with persistent GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) discovered through genetic testing that they had a mild lactose intolerance and a sensitivity to coffee. By making simple adjustments to their diet, the patient’s symptoms improved dramatically within three months, eliminating the need for further doctor visits.
This kind of personalized, preventive approach not only improves patient outcomes but also reduces the likelihood of costly insurance claims, creating a mutually beneficial relationship for both customers and Zurich.
A Glimpse into the Future: Data-Driven Decisions and Preventive Care
Looking ahead, the collaboration between Zurich and NalaGenetics can have a lasting impact on both the health and insurance industry. As more data is gathered through genetic testing and preventive care programs, Zurich will be able to make more informed decisions about how to cater to the evolving needs of its clients while helping them optimize health outcomes. The potential for AI-driven insights, automation and more significantly genetic insights will undoubtedly play an increasing role in shaping the future of healthcare and insurance.
Source: Zurich
“If we look ahead to 2030, we’ll see more data-driven decisions in every part of life. Insurance products will need to modernize alongside this trend, offering customers not just coverage but proactive solutions that help them live healthier lives.”
Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia
As the collaboration evolves, both companies expect the demand for personalized medicine to grow, particularly in regions like Southeast Asia, where genetic differences often mean that standard treatments are less effective. The insights gathered from this co-creation process will be invaluable in shaping Zurich’s future offerings and making personalized care a mainstream component of health insurance. It will also help make genetic testing the standard when it comes to treatment plans and optimizing patient care.
Pioneering the Future of Personalized Healthcare
The co-creation between NalaGenetics and Zurich is a powerful example of how collaborations between startups and established corporations can drive meaningful change. Through the Zurich Innovation Championship, the companies are poised to bring personalized medicine into the insurance space. The co-creation process has allowed them to offer customers more than just peace of mind, they’re offering the tools to live healthier, longer lives.
By focusing on genetic testing, preventive care, and data-driven solutions, Zurich and NalaGenetics are paving the way for a future where healthcare and insurance are fully integrated, providing a holistic approach to well-being. This collaboration not only sets Zurich Malaysia apart in the insurance market but also offers a glimpse into the future of personalized, proactive healthcare.
As the world continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of healthcare is personal, and Zurich and NalaGenetics are leading the way.
This article was based on an interview with Mr Ally Robertson, Chief Operations Officer, Zurich Malaysia; Ms Levana Sani, Co-Founder and CEO, Nalagenetics and Ms Kamonlawan Chomchopbun, Product Manager and Market Access Lead, NalaGenetics.
Alastair Robertson (Ally) Country Chief Operations Officer (COO) Zurich Malaysia
Ally is an experienced industry professional with over 16 years of experience in the insurance industry. He has helmed various leadership roles across Strategy, Transformation and Operational Excellence. He has experience in leading large-scale change teams, focusing on Lean Thinking, Automation and AI.
He also has cross-functional experience, which includes P&C, Life, Claims, Group, Underwriting & Shared Services and has extensive knowledge of working with suppliers both on and offshore. Prior to his current appointment, Ally held the role of Head of Enterprise Transformation at Zurich Australia and New Zealand and has experience working across five different continents while at Zurich.
Ally is highly energetic and has the ability to connect, influence and develop collaborative business relationships at all levels. Given his experience working on different continents, he is well-versed in managing diverse teams while driving a real sense of togetherness and team spirit that is focused on business outcomes.
Levana Sani is the co-founder and CEO of NalaGenetics, a biotechnology startup transforming personalized healthcare through advanced predictive genetic testing for diverse populations. NalaGenetics addresses the limitations of traditional germline sequencing by combining monogenic risk, polygenic risk, and clinical risk scores, enabling healthcare providers to offer more sensitive, comprehensive, and cost-effective testing solutions for cardiovascular, metabolic, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions.
Levana studied biochemistry, genetics, and business and holds a Bachelor of Biochemistry from the University of Southern California followed by an MBA from Harvard Business School. While being a part of the Genome Institute of Singapore, Levana and a team of scientists founded NalaGenetics in 2016. Her contributions to NalaGenetics led to Levana being selected in the Forbes 30 under 30 in 2021.
In 2022, NalaGenetics became a part of Singapore’s SG100K study, aimed at mapping genomes of 10,000 participants to advance precision medicine and prevent chronic diseases in Singaporean and other Asian populations. Today, NalaGenetics’ solutions are offered by a growing number of healthcare providers and laboratories in Asia and Europe, reflecting the company’s exceptional standards and depth of research as a scientist-led company.
Kamonlawan Chomchopbun Product Manager and Market Access Lead, NalaGenetics.
Kamonlawan is a seasoned product leader with extensive experience in genetic testing and healthcare solutions across Southeast Asia. As the Market Access and Product Lead at NalaGenetics, she oversees genetic test services, including product management, operations, and business monitoring. Her work focuses on driving innovative solutions like NalaCare™, a personalized wellness program aimed at improving customer engagement and satisfaction in insurance and healthcare. With a passion for making an impact through education, product development, and personalized healthcare, she has successfully led projects that blend science with real-world applications.
Kamonlawan holds a PhD in Pharmacy from the National University of Singapore, where her academic journey reinforced her commitment to medication safety and healthcare quality improvement.
International travelers can now pay like locals at more than 35 million merchants across Asia Pacific
SINGAPORE, Nov. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Ahead of the Singapore FinTech Festival, Mastercard today introduced Mastercard Pay Local, a global service that makes it easy for consumers to make card payments to merchants using local digital wallets. With Mastercard Pay Local, resident cardholders or international travelers can easily link their credit or debit cards to a digital wallet and immediately shop at participating merchants, without needing to set up or top up a prepaid account.
Leading wallets in Asia Pacific, such as DANA in Indonesia, Touch ‘n Go in Malaysia, Bakong in Cambodia, and LankaPay in Sri Lanka, will use Mastercard Pay Local to facilitate payments for consumers at more than 35 million merchants in the region that accept these wallets. Beyond Asia Pacific, the service is also geared towards regions where digital wallets are widely used for everyday purchases, such as Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East and Africa.
Mastercard Pay Local benefits everyone involved:
Residents can pay the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that do not accept traditional card payments, while tourists and international travelers can enjoy convenient, seamless payments across the destinations they’re visiting.
Hundreds of millions of MSMEs can experience increased reach with minimal infrastructure investment or disruptions to their operations.
Wallet operators can extend their customer base by attracting individuals who primarily use cards, providing a smooth consumer experience and achieving quicker time to market.
Card issuers can deliver more points of acceptance for the consumers they serve.
“With Pay Local, Mastercard is extending its global network to partner wallets and expanding acceptance by making it possible for Asia’s digital wallets to process card-based payments. This creates a low-cost, simple, stable, and secure connection between over 35 million merchants in Asia Pacific and two billion Mastercard cardholders,” said Sandeep Malhotra, executive vice president, Products & Innovation, Asia Pacific, Mastercard. “Locals benefit from new payment options while tourists can use their cards as they do at home, making travel infinitely easier, with one less thing to worry about while on the road.”
Pay Local builds upon Mastercard’s existing collaborations with leading wallet providers, including Alipay and Weixin Pay in the Chinese Mainland and Octopus in Hong Kong SAR, to offer a convenient way for international visitors to pay like locals when traveling to these locations, regardless of where in the world their Mastercard card was issued.
In addition, a range of digital wallets across the region already accept Mastercard cards for funding, enabling easy payments at merchant locations that accept these wallets, including GrabPay in Southeast Asia, Maya in the Philippines, ShopBack in Singapore, and TrueMoney in Thailand.
Businesses that would like to learn more about Mastercard Pay Local should visit the information page and fill out the form. A member of Mastercard’s team will get in contact with more details.
Hear from our partners:
DANA: “At DANA, we are committed to enhancing the accessibility and convenience of digital payments for all users. By collaborating with Mastercard, we are excited to offer international travelers a seamless way to register and bind their cards to DANA, furthering our mission of bridging financial inclusion across borders. This collaboration reflects our dedication to improving user experience and supporting global financial mobility as we anticipate increased international travel,” said Darrick Rochili, chief innovation officer of DANA.
Touch ‘n Go: “As Malaysia’s leading digital wallet and financial services provider, we are proud to have expanded our services beyond national borders, enabling users to travel cashless and make seamless payments internationally. Our collaboration with Mastercard underscores the strength of our open platform strategy, allowing us to extend cashless payment solutions to international travelers visiting Malaysia, contributing to the country’s tourism industry and economy. We are pleased to offer inbound tourists the convenience of cashless transactions via QR payment at over 2 million merchants, retail outlets, and service providers across Malaysia,” said Alan Ni, CEO at TNG Digital.
About Mastercard Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential. www.mastercard.com
