Jom Sembang, Malaysia

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at Studio 21:05.

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

This episode was recorded at AV United.

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

This episode was recorded at AV United.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jom Sembang, Malaysia is a podcast that invites Malaysians (and their friends) to chat about the little things in life that unite us as Anak Malaysia. We agree to disagree so that our conversations enrich our understanding of one another. We also welcome you to join our conversations by leaving us comments at whichever platforms you’re tuning in from, or you can reach out to us at jomsembangmalaysia@gmail.com.

This podcast is hosted by Juwita Suwito and Gina Yap Lai Yoong.