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Youth In Action: 115,000 Young Malaysian Artists Illustrate A Greener Future For All

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  • Faber-Castell champions creativity and sustainability among young Malaysians, empowering environmental awareness and advocacy through art.
  • The Young Artist Award workshops saw a record-breaking four-year high in participation, reaching 77,000 students and 3,456 teachers across Malaysia.
PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA –
Mr. Andrew Woon, Managing Director of Faber-Castell Malaysia, with the top 30 finalists of the Faber-Castell Young Artist Award 2024.

Certified by the Malaysia Book of Records as the ‘Largest Young Artist Colouring Contest’, this year’s programme saw remarkable growth with submissions more than doubling from last year, garnering over 115,000 entries from schools nationwide.
In line with Faber-Castell’s commitment to sustainability, the Young Artist Award serves as a platform that encourages environmental advocacy and nurtures creativity among young artists. This year’s theme, “Ensuring Sustainable Growth Together”, inspired participants to imagine a greener future, fostering compassion, awareness, and responsibility for the environment through art.
Empowering Young Changemakers Through Art
The Young Artist Award 2024 welcomed entries across three age groups: Category A (5 to 8 years old), Category B (9 to 12 years old), and Category C (13 to 17 years old). Through three contest rounds, students engaged with environmental-focused topics and showcased their unique perspectives on sustainable practices through their art. Grand Winners in each category were awarded RM2,000, Faber-Castell products worth RM500, a custom trophy, and the title of Young Artist Ambassador for Faber-Castell Malaysia.

Empowering their creative journey, participants attended masterclasses led by expert artists from MY Art Studio and MY Craft Studio. Beyond art, each workshop embedded sustainability teachings alongside themes of eco-friendly living, empathy and community engagement. The workshops not only nurtured artistic talents, but also inspired participants to grow as responsible, compassionate individuals. For many, the workshops expanded their artistic skills and strengthened their understanding of environmental themes. Notably, over 77,000 students took part in the workshops, which were conducted both online and in person.
In line with this year’s contest theme of sustainability, Faber-Castell has also forged a partnership with Gamuda Land, an eco-friendly developer, to facilitate educational field trips and hands-on activities. Ahead of the final round, the top 30 finalists were invited to Paya Indah Wetlands, one of Malaysia’s protected Wetlands Reserve, where they joined handicraft workshops and explored the reserve’s natural landscapes, gaining an appreciation for Malaysia’s biodiversity and interconnected ecosystems. This immersive experience sparked new ideas, especially for urban students, enabling them to incorporate nature-inspired motifs into their artwork.
The Young Artist Award offers a two-pronged approach to enhance the teacher’s teaching techniques with the Art Experience Teacher’s Edition and the student’s learning process through the competition. The Art Experience Teacher’s Edition introduced teachers to different art materials and mediums to encourage creativity in the classroom. In 2024, the program has engaged over 3,456 teachers nationwide.

Young Voices for Environmental Change
The Young Artist Award encouraged students to look beyond traditional art, fostering critical thinking on sustainability and environmental advocacy. The programme culminated in a sustainability-themed colouring contest, where participants showcased their newly honed skills, reflecting their visions for a sustainable future. Their artworks embodied a deeper understanding of environmental issues, blending artistic skill with their commitment to change.
Chan Ellen, the Grand Winner of Category C (13 to 17 years old) shared that her piece reflects her ambition to become an environmental scientist. Featuring a vibrant depiction of nature and technology coexisting in harmony, Ellen envisions a future where innovation drives sustainability. “The workshops not only helped me hone my artistic skills but also inspired me to think deeply about how I can use my passion and future career to contribute to a greener world,” she said.

For Ooi Joelle, the Grand Winner of Category B (9 to 12 years old), the trip to Paya Indah Wetlands was an eye-opening experience that directly influenced her winning piece – a lush, thriving landscape intertwined with symbols of sustainable living. Joelle shared, “It was a meaningful and unforgettable trip that gave me a close-up view of nature’s beauty found in diverse flora and fauna. Through the blending techniques we learned in the workshops, I tried to capture that beauty in my art to show how important it is to protect our planet. I hope my piece inspires others to feel the same and care about ensuring our world stays vibrant and full of life.”
Another winner, Wong Ler En, Category A (5 to 8 years old) Grand Winner, imagined a future where people actively care for the planet. Her artwork showcases a world with solar panels, wind turbines, reforestation, and sustainable practices like reducing waste and conserving resources. “This contest made me think about all the small ways we can help the earth, like planting trees and using clean energy,” she explained. “The workshops taught me to use art to bring my ideas to life. I hope my artwork encourages others to take care of the earth and make it greener.”
“As both a parent and educator, I’ve seen the programme’s positive impact and growth in outreach over the years,” said Miss Lim Suk Wen, whose son is a participant this year and sibling to a 2022 Young Artist Award winner. “With environmental themes at the forefront, the Young Artist Award engages students, connecting their creativity with a sense of responsibility. This hands-on experience not only enriches their artistic skills, but also fosters a powerful lifelong appreciation for sustainability in the next generation.”
Mr. Andrew Woon, Managing Director of Faber-Castell Malaysia, expressed pride in the programme’s role in fostering environmental awareness and creativity among youth. “The future is in the hands of our children and empowering them as changemakers is vital. By combining creativity with environmental responsibility, programmes like the Young Artist Award help students gain confidence and find their own voices using mediums like colour pencils, poster colours and oil pastels. We hope they emerge not only as skilled artists but also as advocates for sustainability.”
Faber-Castell Malaysia is committed to expanding the Young Artist Award by actively engaging with schools nationwide, ensuring all Malaysian school children have the opportunity to participate. These efforts aim to promote more young voices for sustainability through art and empower the next generation of environmental advocates.
For a full list of winners and to view their respective artworks, log on their Facebook, Young Artist Award 2024 – Faber-Castell Young Artist Award (1, 2, 3)

Hashtag: #fabercastell

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XIXILI Reimagines Plus-Size Lingerie in Malaysia

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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 December 2025 – XIXILI is rewriting the rules of lingerie shopping with its Plus Size Collection, moving beyond the typical S, M, L, XL approach that leaves so many women without options. The brand’s extensive range proves that well-fitted, beautiful lingerie shouldn’t be a luxury reserved for a select few.

When One Size Definitely Doesn’t Fit All

XIXILI’s Plus Size Collection flips the narrative that women need to settle for less-than-ideal sizes.

“For too many women, bra shopping has meant settling for sizes that almost fit or styles that prioritise function over fashion,” says XIXILI spokesperson Grace Tan. “Inclusivity is about recognising that every woman deserves access to beautiful, sexy, well-fitted lingerie. That shouldn’t be a problem they have to solve alone.”

To address the challenges of online fitting, XIXILI combines a detailed bra size chart with its pioneering ‘Try-On in 3D’ avatar tool. The feature allows women to generate a personalised digital twin based on specific measurements, enabling them to visualise the fit before purchasing.

Support Without Sacrifice: Plus Size Done Right

The Rufina Full Coverage Full Cup Bra sits at the heart of XIXILI’s Plus Size collection, designed for women who have been told they have to choose between support and style. The Rufina bra offers full coverage support with a contemporary silhouette that works under everything from work blouses to festive party dresses. Engineered specifically for fuller figures, it celebrates natural curves instead of trying to hide or minimise them. It’s the kind of foundation piece that lets you focus on your day, not your discomfort.

“We want every woman to feel supported, comfortable, and beautiful in whatever she’s wearing,” says Grace Tan. “Whether it’s for work, family gatherings, or special occasions, the right fit makes all the difference to daily comfort and confidence.”

Empowering Women With Knowledge, Not Just Options

XIXILI recognises that offering more sizes is only half the equation. Many women have spent years navigating limited options without proper guidance on finding their actual measurements.

The brand addresses this through interactive bra size charts, how-to-measure videos, and one-on-one personalised fittings at boutiques nationwide. By equipping women with the tools and knowledge to identify their true size, XIXILI transforms what can be a frustrating shopping experience into a more confident and informed process.

As Christmas shopping gets underway, the Plus Size Collection offers both a thoughtful gift for loved ones and an opportunity for self-care during the busy holiday season.

For more information and to discover the full range, visit XIXILI’s website.

Hashtag: #XIXILI





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XIXILI

A homegrown Malaysian brand, XIXILI offers beautiful fashion lingerie and shapewear in Malaysia that prioritises fit and comfort. With an extensive range of bra sizes from A to I and bands 65 to 110cm, XIXILI caters to women of all shapes and sizes. Expert fitters are dedicated to helping each customer find the perfect bra, boosting confidence and enhancing silhouettes.

XIXILI became the first Malaysian lingerie brand to introduce a Try-On in 3D avatar tool, allowing customers to virtually try on XIXILI lingerie using a 3D avatar tailored to their specific body type and measurements. Whether for everyday wear or something special, XIXILI ensures women always look and feel amazing.

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Essential Document Checklist for SIM Applications

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 December 2025 – Submitting an application to the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) represents a significant academic milestone and requires meticulous preparation. Incomplete or missing documentation may result in processing delays or possible rejection. To assist applicants in meeting these requirements, this guide provides a detailed overview based on SIM’s official application standards.

Preparation Is Key

SIM reviews thousands of applications each year, and incomplete submissions remain one of the primary causes of processing delays. Early preparation of all required documents is essential to ensure a seamless application experience and allow applicants to remain focused on their academic objectives. As stipulated in SIM’s Application Process Guide, all supporting documents must be uploaded at the point of application and submissions lacking these documents will not be processed.

The Core Documents Every Applicant Needs

Prior to applying to the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), applicants should ensure that all required documents are prepared to prevent processing delays. Scanned copies of academic certificates and transcripts, such as GCE ‘O’ and ‘A’ Levels, diplomas or degrees must be provided, along with certified translations and notarisation for documents not in English.

Proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL results, is mandatory for applicants whose previous education was not conducted in English. Identification documents are also required, including the NRIC for local applicants and a valid passport for international applicants, accompanied by a recent passport-sized photograph that complies with SIM’s specifications.

International applicants must additionally prepare documentation for the Student’s Pass application, which includes the passport bio-data page, birth certificate, evidence of financial capability, and, where applicable, parent or guardian identification documents.

Quick Tips to Avoid Delays

Submitting an application to the SIM can be a straightforward process with proper preparation. Ensure that all documents are uploaded in the correct format, with PDF being the standard for certificates and transcripts. For documents not in English, certified translations must be provided to prevent rejection or requests for re-submission.

Applicants should also adhere to SIM’s photo specifications by submitting a recent passport-sized photograph that meets official guidelines. International students must pay particular attention to financial documentation, as proof of financial capability is a key requirement for the Student’s Pass application. Bank statements and supporting documents should be prepared in advance to comply with Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) requirements. Following these steps will help avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smooth application process.

Application Essentials

Prospective students are advised to submit a complete and accurate application to ensure smooth processing. Detailed instructions and programme-specific requirements can be found on SIM’s official application portal. Applications that are incomplete or contain inaccuracies will not be considered. To avoid delays, applicants should make use of the provided checklist and guidelines to confirm compliance before submission.

References:

  1. SIM Application Process – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/application-process

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE

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About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

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Vinfuture 2025 Honors Four Groundbreaking Scientific Achievements Under The Theme “Rising And Thriving”

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HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2025 – The VinFuture Foundation officially announces the laureates of the VinFuture Prizes 2025. Four outstanding scientific and technological breakthroughs have been honored, reflecting this year’s theme “Rising and Thriving”, and highlighting the role of cross-border scientific collaboration in addressing global challenges in health, environment, and human livelihood.

The Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam, Mr. Tran Thanh Man, presents the VinFuture 2025 Grand Prize, worth USD 3 million, to the laureate scientists.

The 2025 VinFuture Prize Award Ceremony was broadcast live on VTV1, the national television channel of Vietnam. The event was attended by Mr. Tran Thanh Man, Politburo member and Chairman of the National Assembly, along with leaders of central ministries and agencies, representatives of embassies and international organisations, and distinguished scientists from around the world.

The VinFuture Prize 2025 received 1,705 nominations from scientists, research institutions, and technology enterprises worldwide, representing an almost threefold increase relative to the inaugural year. These submissions highlight impactful cross-border research efforts focused on protecting public health, advancing next-generation intelligent materials, addressing climate change, accelerating novel energy solutions, and strengthening global food security frameworks.

The 2025 VinFuture Grand Prize valued at US$3 million is awarded to Dr. Douglas R. Lowy, Dr. John T. Schiller, Dr. Aimée R. Kreimer and Prof. Maura L. Gillison (USA) for discoveries and development of HPV vaccines for prevention of tumors caused by human papillomaviruses.

Foundational studies on HPV capsid proteins by Drs. Douglas Lowy and John Schiller led to the development of highly effective HPV vaccines, preventing millions of cervical cancer cases, especially in developing countries. Furthermore, the single-dose vaccination regimen developed by Dr. Aimée Kreimer – now recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) – has significantly expanded vaccine access for populations worldwide.

In parallel, laboratory and epidemiological studies by Prof. Maura Gillison and Dr. Aimée Kreimer established the link between HPV and head-and-neck cancers, which represent an emerging cancer threat expected to be mitigated by HPV vaccination efforts. The achievements of Dr. Douglas Lowy, Dr. John Schiller, Dr. Aimée Kreimer, and Prof. Maura Gillison have already saved millions of lives and will keep lowering the global cancer burden for decades to come.

In addition to the Grand Prize, the 2025 VinFuture Prizes will also present three Special Prizes, each valued at US$500,000, recognizing Innovators from Developing Countries, Women Innovators, and Innovators with Outstanding Achievements in Emerging Fields.

The 2025 VinFuture Special Prize for Innovators from Developing Countries​ is awarded to Prof. María Esperanza Martínez-Romero (Mexico) for advances in microbial ecology and symbiotic nitrogen fixation in the tropics. Prof. Martínez-Romero has discovered and described numerous new Rhizobium species, significantly expanding scientific understanding of microbial taxonomy and plant-microbe interactions in agriculture. Her work has opened new directions in the study of bacterial-plant symbiosis, with profound implications for sustainable agriculture in resource-limited settings.

The 2025 VinFuture Special Prize for Women Innovators is awarded to Prof. Mary-Claire King (USA) for identification of the breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility gene BRCA1, laying the foundation for genetic testing, screening programs, and personalized treatment. Her landmark identification of the BRCA1 locus on chromosome 17q21 in 1990, before the human genome was sequenced, is considered a historic milestone, demonstrating the genetic basis of cancer risk and transforming prevention and treatment strategies worldwide.

The 2025 VinFuture Special Prize for Innovators with Outstanding Achievements in Emerging Fields has honored Prof. Venkatesan Sundaresan (USA), Prof. Raphaël Mercier (Germany), Dr. Emmanuel Guiderdoni (France), Dr. Imtiyaz Khanday (USA) and Dr. Delphine Mieulet (France) for innovations in the development of clonal hybrid crops. Hybrid seed production for rice, the staple food for more than half of humankind, is a laborious and costly procedure resulting in a high seed cost. The team’s work has enabled rice plants to produce seeds that retain all the superior traits of the parent plant through self-pollination, grounded in new insights into developmental biology and genetics. This groundbreaking research improves yields, reduces seed production costs, and advances sustainable global food security.

Sharing his reflections on this year’s honored works, Prof. Sir. Richard Friend, Chair of the VinFuture Prize Council, stated: “The 2025 VinFuture Prize Laureates have made big advances in science that have brought direct benefits to human health and to global sustainable food crop production. From new vaccines and new understanding of genetic susceptibility to disease to new approaches for plant breeding and new protocols for healthy crop growth, these achievements exemplify the power of science driven by compassion and cross-border collaboration – showing that when knowledge serves humanity, it not only deepens our understanding of the world but also strengthens and sustains the very foundations of life itself.

After five consecutive and widely acclaimed award cycles, the VinFuture Prize has been securing recognition among the world’s most prestigious science and technology awards, receiving 6,132 nominations from nearly 110 countries and territories across five continents, and honoring 48 outstanding laureates. The awarded innovations—spanning clean energy, artificial intelligence, biomedical technologies, and transformative advances in agriculture—are elevating quality of life, strengthening human well-being, and shaping strategic pathways for the future of humanity.

The VinFuture Prize Ceremony and VinFuture Sci-Tech Week have evolved into an established global platform for scientific exchange, bringing together scientists, policymakers, and business leaders to advance collaborations toward a sustainable, humane, and prosperous future.

Notably, after five award seasons driven by persistent efforts to connect global scientific excellence with the Vietnamese research community, the VinFuture Foundation and the VinFuture Prize have not only fostered new opportunities and momentum for national science, but have also strengthened Vietnam’s standing as a trusted destination for the world’s scientific community—where innovation is widely shared and amplified for the collective prosperity of humankind.

Launch of the 2026 VinFuture Prize Award Season: The VinFuture Prize 2026 will officially open its nomination portal from 2:00 PM on January 9, 2026, to 2:00 PM on April 17, 2026 (Hanoi time, GMT+7). Nominating partners are invited to submit candidate information through the online nomination portal at: https://vinfutureprize.org/vinfuture-prize-nomination/.

Hashtag: #Vinfuture

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