DKong Fitness Music Festival to challenge Guinness World Record

PETALING JAYA: To all you music enthusiasts, the “DKong Fitness Music Festival “ is set to get your groove on the dance floor through a Zumba performance on September 30th at the Maeps, Serdang with lively music beats and an energetic dance floor atmosphere by challenging the Guinness World Record.

You are invited to join us in breaking a world record to bravely challenging the Guinness World Record as the current record for a Zumba event in the Philippines stands at 13,350 participants, but the goal is to surpass the remarkable feat of 15,000 participants.

No matter which country you come from, your participation is eagerly awaited. International-level Zumba instructors will lead you to conquer the dance floor.

The DKong! Fitness Music Festival has received full support from Zumba Fitness LLC in the United States. Just imagine, you will be dancing alongside Zumba Jammers Alex Pang, Deno Au, Fyza Arena, Christina Kong from Malaysia, and Tamas Zsolnai, one of the top 20 Zumba Next Rising Presenters from Hungary. They will guide you through jumps, spins, and the release of passion on a dazzling stage, allowing your body and soul to merge with the flow of music.

Top Malaysian singers join in to support the event. The performers in Malaysia will ignite your passion throughout the night. Whether it’s the exhilarating vocals of Faizal Tahir, the fantastic performances by Dayang Nurfaizah, 3P, Faizal Pj, DJ Point, DJ Reeve, Dina Nadzir, Dennis Yin, and more, every moment will be a soul-stirring experience.

You will immerse yourself in the most fervent music atmosphere, unleashing your energy and dancing alongside thousands of dancers in a state of pure excitement!

Tickets details consist of two exciting options waiting for you: Rock Zone for RM200 and Premier Zone for RM100. Purchasing a ticket will also entitle you to a luxurious gift package worth RM88, which includes a limited edition festival commemorative t-shirt, towel, and sponsored goodies. It’s not just a ticket; it’s a pass to enter the world of dance and fitness celebration.

Get your tickets now and join the ecstatic “DKong Fitness Music Festival,“ Malaysia’s biggest Zumba music festival organised by Ledgit and sponsored by Bitney Fans Club.

Ticket website: https://www.ticket2u.com.my/event/31603. For more information, please visit: fmf.dkong.club.

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Man who won Magnums 4D jackpot of RM28.9 mln says it was pure coincidence

PETALING JAYA: It’s a story straight out of a fairytale, as a local resident of Raub, Pahang became an overnight multi-millionaire after winning Magnum 4D’s jackpot prize of a whopping RM28.9 million!

This incredible stroke of luck came from a series of fortunate events on Father’s Day, culminating in a life-changing win.

The winner, who wishes to remain anonymous, recounts the events leading up to his astonishing victory. “It was just pure coincidence. I was taking my child to buy new shoes, and the Magnum 4D outlet is located next door. It was towards the evening already and I was rushing to get the shoes for my daughter. I stopped when the Magnum 4D frontliners waved to me. I am a familiar face to them, so it was nice that they took the effort to acknowledge me.

“One of the frontliners also encouraged me to purchase the Magnum 4D Jackpot Lucky Pick ticket displayed on the window. It was a System Bet-3 lucky pick ticket. I’ve always had my own preferred numbers when purchasing lottery tickets but since it was Father’s Day, and I was feeling a bit happy from the day’s celebration, I decided to try my luck,“ he explained.

Little did he know that on that fateful Father’s Day, his path to riches had just begun. “I have won a small amount before when buying my numbers from the same frontliner. It’s incredible how certain people or places can bring us good fortune and luck, “ he added.

News of the jackpot winner from Raub, Pahang quickly spread like wildfire throughout social media, as online groups buzzed with excitement. Unaware that the winning numbers were the ones he held in hand, he initially brushed off the hype. However, his wife’s keen perception prompted them to investigate further.

“We were discussing the lucky pick ticket I purchased from the Magnum 4D outlet the previous day, and my wife had a hunch that it could be my lucky pick number. She decided to cross-check the numbers on the Magnum 4D website, and true enough, I was the lucky winner! Turns out that my lucky pick numbers of 6736 (2nd Prize) + 0651 (3rd prize) were the winning jackpot numbers,“ he recalled excitedly.

Still in disbelief, the winner visited the Magnum 4D outlet the following day seeking clarification from the frontliners. Grateful for their pro-active approach in encouraging him to buy the lucky pick ticket displayed on the window, he expressed his happiness, stating, “It was the frontliner’s effort that caught my attention and made me decide to buy the tickets in the first place.”

In another happy recent win, a lovely middle-aged couple from Perak experienced an incredible twist of fate when they partially won the Magnum 4D Jackpot by purchasing numbers given by their son, making them instant millionaires.

They partially struck the Magnum 4D Jackpot with these two sets of numbers - 1992 (2nd prize) and 9238 (3rd prize) on 3 June 2023, winning them a life-changing fortune of RM2.4 million with an affordable cost of RM10 to place their M-System Play-10 bet.

Also, in another lucky and amazing turn of events, a long-time lottery enthusiast from Seremban also struck an astonishing Magnum 4D Jackpot partial win of RM2.37 million on 27 May 2023. The 4D Jackpot M-System Play-10 bet numbers she had bought struck two winning numbers – 4849 (1st prize) and 4598 (3rd prize), earning her an exciting sum of over RM2 million.

She credits her win to a heartwarming tradition passed down by her own parents to purchase numbers comprising the birth dates of family members. This fortune winning tradition has not only created fond memories but also presented her with a life changing opportunity.

These news of extraordinary jackpot wins serve as a reminder to all that sometimes the most extraordinary things can happen when we least expect them. These lucky winners are testaments to the power of how sometimes, traditions or even random luck can lead to exciting life changing moments.

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MagnumCares sponsors medical equipment and groceries for special needs children

KUALA LUMPUR: MagnumCares, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Magnum Group has helped in sponsoring vital medical equipment and essential daily groceries to Persatuan Insan Istimewa Cheras, a non-profit organisation (NGO) that is dedicated to providing care and support for children with special needs.

Executive vice president – group chief commercial officer of Magnum Datuk Chan Chee Fai led the MagnumCares team during their visit to the home to present the sponsored items of a Karma Reclining Wheelchair, and a range of essential daily groceries.

MagnumCares is committed to making a positive impact on the communities in which it operates, focusing on fostering long-term relationships with charitable organisations and supporting initiatives that drive meaningful change.

This sponsorship of medical equipment and daily groceries to Persatuan Insan Istimewa Cheras, Selangor aligns perfectly with MagnumCares’ mission to contribute to the well-being and development of our society.

The home endeavors to create a safe and nurturing environment for children with special needs to unleash their full potential and live fulfilling lives. With this sponsorship, MagnumCares aims to enhance the quality of life for these special children, helping the home towards providing professional care and support for 43 children with various degrees of disabilities.

The Karma Reclining Wheelchair is a vital piece of medical equipment that will greatly benefit the children in the home. This wheelchair provides comfort, mobility, and flexibility, allowing the children to move around with ease and independence, empowering them to participate fully in everyday activities to foster their overall wellbeing.

In addition to the wheelchair, MagnumCares’ sponsorship includes a range of daily groceries, such as detergent and cleaning aids, milk powder, biscuits, instant noodles, cooking oil, rice, and other daily necessities.

These essential supplies will help meet the daily needs of the home, ensuring that the children are provided with nutritious meals, while also maintaining a clean and hygienic living environment.

“By supporting the home with this sponsorship, MagnumCares seeks to alleviate the financial burden on Persatuan Insan Istimewa Cheras, Selangor, allowing them to allocate their resources towards enhancing their care and rehabilitation programmes for the children. MagnumCares remains committed towards driving positive change and creating a better future for all. Through initiatives like this sponsorship, we aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need, supporting organisations that provide essential care and services to vulnerable communities,” said Chan..

Persatuan Insan Istimewa Cheras chairman, Lee Swee Mooi expressed her appreciation to Magnum stating: “I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to MagnumCares for this sponsorship. It is truly making a positive impact on the lives of these remarkable children. We are touched by your compassion and dedication towards creating a difference in the lives of these special kids. Your kindness and generosity will continue to resonate with them for years to come.”

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HWC Coffee to open Malaysias first flagship store to revolutionise coffee industry

PETALING JAYA: HWC Coffee, the first specialty coffee chain in Malaysia, is set to open its flagship store on June 21. Unlike typical retail outlets, this store will combine a retail space and an academy, aiming to revolutionise the coffee industry.

HWC Coffee is excited to unveil its flagship store and will introduce eight new varieties of coffee beans to enhance the coffee-drinking experience. Having established its presence in Malaysia for over a year, with a focus on hand-brewed coffee, the flagship store will strengthen HWC’s position in the specialty coffee market.

HWC Coffee Academy, slated to begin operation in July, will offer professional coffee courses, allowing coffee lovers to gain a deeper understanding of coffee knowledge and culture. To further elevate customer experience, customers can now conveniently place their orders through the user-friendly HWC Coffee APP.

Situated at the mature yet bustling neighbourhood, the flagship store is designed to cater to coffee lovers, positioning itself as a top-tier specialty coffee destination.

The entire shop is painted white, symbolising cleanliness, freshness, and simplicity. Featuring minimalist designs, the store provides a diverse array of seating options, ensuring that customers find the perfect spot that aligns with their individual preferences.

Whether one is seeking a conducive working environment or a place to socialise with friends, you can savour your coffee in a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

The HWC Coffee Flagship Store & Coffee Academy opening ceremony was graced by the founder of HWC Roaster Penny Lim, chairman Joe Huang, founder of HWC Coffee Malaysia Hoe Kian Choon, chief executive officer Zenda Ng,

Also present were chief operation officer Penny Chan, HWC marketing consultant Sam Mak and marketing director Edmund Lai, business partners Lim Aik Ho, Lim Aik Kia,Lim Aik Fu and Vincent Chin.

During the opening ceremony, Ng announced the upcoming launch of a new series of specialty coffee beans, set to debut in July. Among the highly anticipated additions is the HWC Taiwan Alishan Honey Roasted Coffee Bean, a seasonal offering with an impressive score of 93 out of 100 in the Coffee Review evaluation.

The other seven new single-origin additions include Ethiopia Yirgacheffe, Kenya AA FAQ, Columbia Huila El Divino Niño, Indonesia Blue Diamond Golden Mandheling, Costa Rica La Minita El conquistador, Guatemala Huehuetenango SHB, and Brazil Ipanema Estate Dulce.

Each of these beans has been carefully selected by HWC Coffee for coffee enthusiasts in Malaysia. Starting today, the public can enjoy the aforementioned coffees at our flagship store. Coffee beans will be available for purchase in-store and online starting in July.

Ng also highlighted the diverse flavour profiles of the scheduled launch specialty coffee beans.

HWC Coffee’s flagship store is the first HWC store that offers hand-brewed coffee. Coffee lovers will soon indulge in a wide range of freshly roasted coffee beans, sourced from different origins, each with its own unique flavour profile.

Customers can choose their preferred brewing mode, including V60 pour-over and press brewing methods, allowing them to savour the distinct taste of coffee.

“This marks a significant milestone in promoting high-quality specialty coffee and meeting the demand of coffee lovers in Malaysia for exceptional coffee.” Ng added.

She does not rule out the possibility of expanding filter coffee pouring services in selected HWC Coffee stores that meet the criteria, enabling everyone to enjoy HWC’s brew at any time.

HWC Coffee is also excited to announce the official launch of the HWC Coffee mobile application in June, allowing customers to explore a range of features and benefits, all at their fingertips.

During the promotional period, customers who download the application and register as members will enjoy a limited-time offer of purchasing a cup of Americano or Latte for just RM1.

In addition, customers can also enjoy the convenience of HWC Delivery through the mobile application, with a discount of up to RM18. Apart from purchasing your favourite coffee, there will be exclusive member benefits as well as merchandise and accessories.

With every purchase made through the application, users can earn loyalty points, which can later be redeemed for cash vouchers, allowing them to maximise their overall savings. As valued members of HWC, users will be entitled to special privileges, including birthday offers and exclusive promotions.

Ng said the app would serve as a bridge to foster a close connection between HWC Coffee and consumers.

“We are researching ways to make the HWC Coffee application more personalised. By analysing consumers’ purchase histories and preferences, we will offer personalised coffee recommendations based on individual taste preferences. This feature allows users to discover new coffee flavours with ease and enhances their overall coffee experience, making their coffee journey joyful and exciting,” she added.

Over the past 15 months, HWC Coffee Malaysia has expanded its presence across Malaysia, with nearly 30 coffee outlets and kiosks have been opened in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuching, and Seremban. These outlets are strategically located in major shopping malls, bustling commercial areas, universities, and banking districts.

Since its establishment, HWC Coffee has earned consumer recognition for its high-quality offerings, thanks to its commitment to serving specialty coffee to coffee lovers. In May, the brand achieved another milestone by opening its flagship store in Brunei.

In the second quarter, the company successfully expanded its presence in Penang and Seremban and opened two new brand stores in Kuching.

“It is anticipated that in the second half of the year, HWC Coffee will continue its expansion into Johor, Sabah, Malacca and Ipoh,” Ng said.

For more information, please visit HWC Coffee Malaysia website at www.hwccoffee.my and download the mobile application.

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Fathers Day tribute Protect the heart of a hero

KUALA LUMPUR: This Father’s Day, let’s acknowledge the heart of a hero needs to be protected. Dads always put their families first, but their health needs are also important. Heart disease often goes undetected due to lack of awareness and monitoring of blood pressure, which today can be done at home.

Hypertension is described as a silent killer because many are not aware they have it. Silent but deadly, which can lead to other health problems such heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney damage and blood clots.

Besides going to the doctor, a good way to measure blood pressure is to regularly check it at home. Regular checking will reveal abnormalities in blood pressure, while the normal reading is 120/80 but to really ensure accuracy, a few rules need to be followed. One of the most important, to take blood pressure at around the same time every day for accuracy.

Today, blood pressure monitoring is made easy by using a good blood pressure monitor and OMRON Healthcare’s Japan-imported blood pressure monitors make a perfect Father’s Day gift. In today’s past paced world, it becomes even more important to provide the best of healthcare to our ageing parents, especially given the stress and pressure they faced during their working lives.

Currently, OMRON provides total prevention and digital health management solutions with its newly launched HealthGift rewards programme on the OMRON Connect app.

The users of OMRON’s connected devices (a range of Blood Pressure Monitors and Body Composition Monitors) are encouraged to adopt healthy prevention habits such as regular blood pressure home monitoring while receiving rewards at the same time.

OMRON sets the standard by providing the best and one of the most accurate measurements of blood pressure. OMRON’s range of connected devices are also equipped with the OMRON Connect mobile app, which automatically records and keeps track of blood pressure readings, allowing you or your father to take readings anytime, anywhere. These readings help with monitoring trends and changes, giving valuable insights about your blood pressure, and can be programmed to give reminders for medication times as well. Your father’s health data can easily be uploaded, stored and shared with you or other family members and doctors, ensuring that you will always have the information you need at your fingertips.

In return for the trust placed in OMRON, the HealthGift digital rewards programme awards points (collected in the form of HealthCoins) for health prevention activities like regularly measuring one’s blood pressure.

These HealthCoins can then be redeemed for vouchers such as Shell, Touch ‘n Go, Family Mart and more. Additionally, HealthGift users can also participate in the monthly or quarterly bidding to win exciting prizes such as iPads, Dyson appliances and more!

OMRON aims to build a community of health-aware individuals, whereby the health of everyone is regularly monitored and action can be taken at the right time for those with heart conditions, especially hypertension and other related heart conditions.

Registered under Act 737

Medical device registration no:

HEM-7142T1 (GB7742021-80178)

Advertisement Approval No: MDAMD 009/2022

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The Festival of the Force Special Guests

THE Festival of the Force’s Special Guests talks to The Sun

Syahrin – Commanding Officer for the 501st Legion Malaysia Garrison

1. Which Star Wars movie is your favourite, and which one made you a fan of the franchise?

The earliest Star Wars movie that I remember is The Empire Strikes Back. I think it was a Friday night when I first watched it, and the storyline which was different from action movies had me hooked.

2. How has Star Wars impacted your life, whether personal, professional or both?

The events I attend are usually the best time for me to spend time with my family. My sons are also fans of the franchise; the eldest used to wear costumes, and the youngest is still doing it.

3. For those that don’t know, can you describe what the 501st Legion Malaysia Garrison is, and what they do?

We usually participate in events conducted by NGOs for charity. By donning our costumes, people will usually take pictures with us, and that helps during donation drives. When they see Star Wars characters, they become more interested. Usually, kids have a bigger reaction to us.

The requirement to join the Garrison needs someone to be above 18 years old, they need to have a screen-accurate Star Wars costume, and because the 501st is concentrated on the villains, the costumes have to be in that line.

4. What plans do you and the garrison have for the Festival of the Force?

We will be working with GAPS on a donation drive. During the event, we have a large number of people in costumes.

Arif Rafhan – Comic artist, illustrator, concept artist

1. Which Star Wars movie is your favourite, and which one made you a fan of the franchise?

I was born when A New Hope was released in the US, so its very near and dear to me. When I grew up, the Prequel Trilogy was released.

A New Hope is my favourite. The first shot was an eye-opener for me as a kid. It made me fall in love with movies instantly.

2. How has Star Wars impacted your life, whether personal, professional or both?

Both, but it was more personal. Like my mom was a single mother, but she never bought me Star Wars toys, but she got me Star Wars merchandise that was educational in nature.

When I was six, she bought me a Star Wars audio book. She would put on these cassettes, and I would learn from them. I would listen to them everyday with my mother. I never bought Star Wars toys until I was almost 40 years old. My best birthday present was when my wife bought me a Darth Vader helmet.

3. One of the (many) things you’re known for is your Star Wars batik. How much effort and time does a single piece take to complete?

A few years ago, Julian reached out to me and we talked about this event.

Before this, my art and comics were about Malaysia. When Julian contacted me, I had no idea the kind of art that I wanted to do. When COVID-19 hit, I lay low, but I kept thinking about the event and what I wanted to make that had to be unique to Star Wars and Malaysia.

To refine my batik artwork, I used the core design and influence of real batik. Eventually, I told Julian that I would make batik artwork for Star Wars.

As for how long, it varies. When I first started, it took longer. It took me about two weeks. Then it got faster and faster.

4. As you will be bringing some of your works for the Festival, will they be up for auction or will they be sold for a fixed price?

Some will be for auction, and some will be at a fixed price. But whatever amount is bid on the artwork, it will be given to the charity.

Alan Quah – Comic artist

1. Which Star Wars movie is your favourite, and which one made you a fan of the franchise?

I watched Episode 4 to 6 more than 3 dozen times with Empire Strikes Back being my favourite.

2. How has Star Wars impacted your life, whether personal, professional or both?

It has had a huge impact on me growing up, I would copy the entire movie adaptation of Empire Strikes Back comic by Archie Goodwin and Al Williamson onto my primary school textbook panel by panel from start to finish including the word balloons. I would be able to draw any of the Star Wars characters and ships.

Eventually I became a comic artist because of my love for this series.

3. Earlier this year, you revealed that a variant cover for Star Wars Issue #33 came from you. What did it feel like working on that cover with Lucasfilm in an official capacity?

It feels like going full circle to the time where this little boy was mimicking his comic heroes, copying their art style to eventually developing my own method of drawing. And to be officially drawing Luke Skywalker, The Mandalorian, and Darth Vader professionally is surreal. It took too long to reach this destination, but I would do it all over again.

4. In what way will you be contributing to the Festival of the Force?

You can view my cover art as part of the exhibition for this event and also there will be a Meet and Greet session on Saturday where everyone can drop by to say hi. See you soon.

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Grow and transfer wealth to multiple generations of your family

TO provide for your family’s future, building your savings plays an important part in securing the future of your family.

But to provide for the future of multiple generations of your family, you will need a unique plan that allows you to grow your savings in the long term, with the ability to transfer it from one generation to another.

With this in mind, Great Eastern launched GREAT Multi-Gen Wealth, a generational wealth accumulation policy with Change of Life Assured feature that is the first-of-its-kind insurance plan in the country.

“GREAT Multi-Gen Wealth allows the family’s legacy to continue building wealth for every generation whilst ensuring the life protection of the family’s future.”

“We believe it is important for our customers to have the ability to safeguard their culture and keep the family in harmony with their loved ones, to always be financially protected,” said Dato Koh Yaw Hui, CEO of Great Eastern Life Assurance (Malaysia) Berhad.

How GREAT Multi-Gen Wealth works

The plan utilises a yearly investment booster with a guaranteed maturity benefit to grow your savings over the chosen policy term of age 70, 80 or 90, with a premium term of 5, 10 or 20 years.

The unique Change of Life Assured feature then allows you to transfer the policy, savings and life protection from one generation to another.

As an example, Adam signs up for GREAT Multi-Gen Wealth as the policy owner and his son, Bob, as the life assured, with the policy maturing when Bob turns 90.

When Bob turns 19, Adam can transfer the policy to him, making Bob the second generation policy owner and life assured.

Upon starting his own family, Bob can then appoint his daughter, Carmen, as the life assured, before transferring the policy ownership to her when she turns 19, making Carmen the third generation under the plan.

This transfer of policy ownership and life assurance will continue until the plan matures with Carmen’s son, Daniel, the fourth generation of the family.

Daniel will receive the total yearly investment booster and guaranteed maturity benefit from the plan’s long-term wealth-building, which he can use to further his studies, buy a home and travel.

“As the country’s largest and most established life insurer, putting our customers at the heart of all that we do, has always been our priority. At Great Eastern, we continuously innovate our insurance solutions to meet the changing needs of our customers so that they can Reach for Great,” said Dato Koh.

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Sharp Unveils the New Purefit Plasmacluster Air Purifier for Superior Healthy Living

PETALING JAYA: Sharp Corporation has announced its Purefit Plasmacluster Air Purifier in conjunction with Sharp 2023 Regional Product Launch, featuring a modern design with natural textures to seamlessly blend with interior spaces, combined with innovative technologies, all to elevate the well-being as well as the lifestyle value of consumers.

With 99.81% of the Earth’s surface levels covered in air pollution below safe levels, air pollution remains a worldwide problem that continues to cause harm at all stages of life, hence the newly launched product by Sharp intends to tackle this.

“As a pioneering company in home appliances, we are proud to launch the Purefit Plasmacluster Air Purifier as part of Sharp’s ongoing commitment to deliver unique Japanese innovative solutions dedicated to meeting the needs of modern urban living that enhances people’s lives.

“Powered by our revolutionary Plasmacluster technology, we understand the impact of air quality on our daily lives and remain committed to enhancing the well-being and lifestyle of our consumers while ensuring the health of the planet,” said PCI/HC Division of Smart Appliances and Solutions BU head, Hideyuki Nagamine.

Purefit Plasmacluster Air purifier uses various unique technologies in harmony with people’s lifestyle.

By the new “dual suction” structure, it realises obvious compact body size (333 mm x 330mm x 578mm) for its coverage area (84m2/JEMA standard), and combined with SHARP unique COANDA air flow technology as well as the triple filtering system, it provides authentic air purification performance and user experiences.

Moreover, Sharp’s one of a kind Plasmacluster ion technology (PCI 25000) elevates the purification efficiency against both airborne and adhered substances such as virus, mold, bacteria.

By utilising a multi-stage process, the Plasmacluster technology mechanism achieves unparalleled air purification, positioning it as the leading choice among Asean countries for superior air quality and a comfortable living experience:

1. Plasmacluster Ions, like the positive and negative ions naturally found in the environment, are surrounded by water molecules and are emitted into the air to last a long time.

2. Plasmacluster ions, specifically hydroxide (OH) radicals, are highly oxidizing when they attach to airborne microbes like allergens, bacteria, mould, and viruses. This process removes hydrogen from the surface proteins of these microbes, leading to their breakdown.

3. The combination of hydroxide (OH) and hydrogen (H) creates water(H2), which is then released back into the air.

Sharp’s cutting-edge Plasmacluster Ion (PCI) Technology has been scientifically proven to have a positive impact on human health.

Through numerous collaborative studies with universities across Japan and various industries, Sharp Corporation has discovered that Plasmacluster technology reduces stress, improves concentration levels, and enhances athletic performance.

In a joint research effort with Japan’s Shizuoka University, the efficacy of Plasmacluster technology was demonstrated in promoting plant growth, highlighting its potential beyond air purification.

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Spidey battle royale

INSTEAD of using its position as a sequel to rehash the first film from 2018, or to mimic the template followed by most superhero films, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse bucks the trend.

It starts unlike any other superhero film, where instead of reintroducing the lead character, the film instead opens with a backstory of what Gwen Stacy a.k.a. Spider-Woman (Hailee Steinfeld) has been up to after the events of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.

Forced back into her own universe, away from Miles Morales (Shameik Moore), Gwen struggles with the death of someone close to her, and how her father – a police officer – is hunting down her alter ego, mirroring the events of the live-action The Amazing Spider-Man films that starred Andrew Garfield.

The film then moves on to Miles in the present, while also introducing The Spot (Jason Schwartzman) – the villain of Across and the sequel next year – who is able to open “portals”.

Eventually, Miles and Gwen reunite, before Miguel O’Hara (Oscar Isaac) – a.k.a. Spider-Man 2099 – and the Spider-Society, an elite group of Spider-People from different alternate universes tasked with protecting the Multiverse make their big entrance.

Across then ends in a way unlike any other superhero film, forgoing the spectacle of explosions and aerial battles for something a little more intimate, and depressing.

Not run of the mill

Usually, for these types of cape and spandex films, it’s expected to hear “anyone that has seen Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse knows how this film will be”, but in this instance, it’s a little further from the truth.

Across features returning and new characters, yes, along with an eclectic soundtrack and visuals that pop just like the first film. But at the same time, Across is much more elevated that its predecessor.

The voice acting, particularly with Moore’s portrayal of an older Miles, is noteworthy due to how subtle the improvements are, but also the sheer variance of voices and how each stand apart from the rest, especially with Isaac’s menacing O’Hara.

Across’ animation is also a marked, visible improvement, with each world/universe feeling distinct and unique.

For example, Gwen’s universe is animated and designed as though it was a painting. Colours trickle down faces and objects, melding into other colours, and forming new ones as though the animated art on screen is on a living, breathing canvas.

The thought and care that goes into every subsequent universe introduced in Across extends beyond just Gwen’s world.

Spider-Punk (voiced by Daniel Kaluuya) and his animation (and music) that evokes punk art is another testament to this, with co-director Thompson claiming that it took three years to animate him.

Not part of the flock

Though The Spot is set up as a villain, the primary conflict in Across actually stems from Miles eventually clashing with O’Hara (and by extension, the rest of the Spider-Man variants) over their clashing ideas on duty and responsibility.

O’Hara believes if there is a choice to save either one person or an entire world, he – and the Spider-Society subservient to him – will choose the latter, as their collective trauma have led them to believe that being Spider-Man involves sacrifice as part of a “multiversal destiny”.

On the other hand, Miles believes he can save everyone, or at least try to.

When presented with a personal crisis that has yet to happen to him, but has already happened to O’Hara and the others, Miles chooses not to let the crisis occur according to “destiny”.

His choice to fight causes O’Hara and the entire Spider-Society to try and stop him by force, as they believe his actions will cause untold destruction.

Evidently, O’Hara and the rest of the Spider-Society have lost the plot. Their losses have changed them, whereas Miles, who hasn’t lost nearly as much, is not as jaded.

It’s absurd to imagine a Spider-Man that thinks the way O’Hara does, and in a circular way, it ties into a completely unrelated Marvel film.

During Avengers: Infinity War, Captain America says “We don’t trade lives” when presented with a choice between who to save, cementing that a real superhero does not pick one over the other; they understand that their social responsibility is to save everyone, despite the risks.

In that sense, among all the Spider-People, Miles is the real superhero, and Across is about Miles’ acceptance of where he will stand in a multiverse filled with people similar to him.

If the overall quality of Across is anything to go by, Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse that will release next year is in good hands.

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