What's Up Today?

One of my agenda is to attend the above event (Nokia NSeries - the Wireless Adventure II) at 3:00pm today at High Street, One Utama (New Wing), Bandar Utama, PJ.

Meanwhile, looking forward to go to Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (KLIBF).

Opening Hours

Date: 4th - 13th April 2008
Mon - Thurs: 10.00AM to 7.00PM
Fri - Sun & Public holidays: 10.00AM to 9.00PM
Venue: Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Tight Schedule

My schedule is a bit tight tomorrow (Friday) cuz need to attend to office matter. Hence, i need to forgo two interesting events, namely:

1. Opening ceremony of Malaysia's largest career fair at Bintang Ballroom, Cititel Mid Valley, KL at 9.30am.

2. BMW Malaysia unveils the new MINI at BMW Regional Training Centre, 3501, Jln Teknorat 5, Cyberjaya at 10:00am.

Canon Launches 8 New Digital Camera Models

Kuala Lumpur, 3 April 2008 – Canon Marketing (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd strengthened its lead in the image capture industry with the unveiling of 8 new digital cameras. The product line-up which addresses the needs of both casual and serious photography enthusiasts feature the very latest in imaging technology developed by Canon. The launch held today featured seven compact digital cameras and one EOS Digital SLR model.

The new range of digital cameras launched by Canon follows the company’s principle to delight its customer. Each new product features the latest technology in image capture The models launched today comprise four new IXUS models, three PowerShot A series cameras from the lifestyle compact range and one EOS DSLR for the serious photographer.

Last year (2007), Canon Marketing (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd recorded a 10per cent growth in both digital camera & digital SLR market segments, cementing its position as a leading brand in Malaysia. With the launch of these NEW models, the company expects a 25 per cent sales growth in its total digital camera and digital SRL sales.

Mr. Calvyn Laang (above), Assistant Director of Consumer Imaging and Information Division, Canon Marketing Malaysia Sdn Bhd said,

“With our new range of cameras, we aim to maintain our lead in the digital camera market segment. Our new range of products are vastly improved with new technologies that make them easier to use and the larger benefit to our consumers is that these products are competitively priced.”

“At Canon, we aim for product quality that gives our customers a sense of trust and satisfaction. To meet our aims, we continuously utilize the latest technology to deliver exceptional, high-quality products and prompt services based on careful assessments of our customer needs. Thus, today’s launch sees a number of image capture equipments that meets the various layers of photography skills and lifestyle”.

The new range of digital cameras launched today feature Canon’s proprietary DIGIC III image processing technology with new and improved features such as advanced Face Detection. The Face Detection AF intelligently focuses on faces in the frame. The Face Detection AF intelligently focuses on faces in the frame, with a new "Face Select & Track" function that tracks and follows selected subjects when they move - the system detects as many as 35 faces within the frame.

Along with the DIGIC III processor, the new range of Canon compact camera are also equipped with Canon’s Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) feature. The OIS feature significantly reduces image-blurring effects of camera shake by shifting the lens to counteract the motion, assuring users the best possible picture quality every time.

"In line with our corporate slogan “Delighting you Always”, our new range of digital cameras are created for people who appreciate the vast technological advances in digital still imaging. With our new range of cameras, we are able to delight our customers who range from the style conscious person who is looking for a stylish compact camera to the serious professional who is looking for the latest in digital imaging. Basically, there is something for everyone,” Mr Laang added further.


IXUS 80IS, 85IS, 90IS and 970IS
Long regarded as the style icon, Canon’s IXUS is always an embodiment of technology and style. The IXUS is now updated with four new additions, the IXUS 80IS, 85IS, 90IS and 970IS. The entry level IXUS 80 IS features a compact curved design for the first time and will be available in five attractive colour variations (Classic Silver, Candy Pink, Chocolate (Brown), Caramel, Blue) with 8.0 Megapixels, 3x zoom with optical Image Stabilizer and 2.5” high resolution LCD with PureColor II Technology.

The flagship Digital IXUS 970 IS, powerful Digital IXUS 85 IS and trendy Digital IXUS 90 IS cameras come equipped with OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) and DIGIC III imaging processor that powers Canon’s Face Detection Technology and Red-Eye Correction for superb people shots, along with faster processing and advanced Noise Reduction.

All new IXUS models, feature technologies such as Motion Detection Technology, Optical Image Stabilisation, Genuine Canon Face Select & Track Technology, and Canon’s proprietary DIGIC III imaging processor, designed to deliver ultra-impressive image quality, while making the entire photography experience fun, exciting, and creatively rewarding.


Powershot A580, A590IS and A470
The new PowerShot digital cameras all incorporate Canon's latest image processor - DIGIC III - for improved lens performance and image quality in highly compact form factors. Combined with high-resolution CCD sensors (7.1-megapixel for the PowerShot A470 and 8.0-megapixel for the PowerShot A590 IS and A580), the cameras allow for detailed image enlargements greater than A3 size to be printed. DIGIC III technology also supports new and improved features such as advanced Face Detection. The Face Detection AF intelligently focuses on faces in the frame, with a new "Face Select & Track" function that tracks and follows selected subjects when they move - the system detects as many as 35 faces within the frame.


EOS 450D Digital SLR
For the seasoned amateur and professional photographer, Canon welcomes the EOS 450D to the Digital SLR family. The new EOS brings staggering technological innovation to the photography masses with a range of significant improvements; It features Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Live View Function with AF modes, and a powerful DIGIC III Image Processor that enhances image quality and speeds up all camera operations for intuitive operation.

The new 12.2-megapixel CMOS APS-C size sensor captures images with exceptional clarity and tonal range, offers the most pixels in its class. It offers many of the same new technologies to maximize each pixel’s light gathering efficiency that were first seen with the professional EOS 1Ds Mark III.

The EOS 450D is equipped with 14-bit analog to digital signal converter, a feature formerly only present in top of the range pro DSLR cameras. The rich 14-bit conversion offers RAW images of the highest quality that can be processed with Canon’s Digital Photo Professional software. Even JPEG files also use the full 14-bit conversion initially to generate the best possible colour and tonal detail.

This new EOS 450D is available in a kit with the new EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens with Optical Image Stabilizer. The EOS 450D refined, ergonomic design includes a new 3.0-inch LCD monitor, compatibility with SD and SDHC Memory cards and new accessories that enhance every aspect of the photographic experience.

Canon Marketing (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd has continuously strived to provide products that feature the latest technological innovations for the benefit of its consumers. Throughout its 21 year history in Malaysia, Canon has taken the leading position in the digital imaging industry through its technological advances and ability to introduce a wide range of digital camera targeted at various layers of consumer segments.


RRP (IXUS 80IS, 85IS, 90IS and 970IS)
IXUS 80IS = RM999.00
IXUS 85IS = RM1,199.00
IXUS 90IS = RM1,349.00
IXUS 970IS = RM1,499.00

RRP (Powershot A580, A590IS and A470)
Powershot A580 = RM799.00
Powershot A590IS = RM899.00
Powershot A470 = RM499.00

RRP (EOS 450D Digital SLR)
EOS 450D (18-55mm IS) = RM3,349.00
EOS 450D (body) = RM2,999.00

Mobile and Wireless Group Launches the Atom V

Kuala Lumpur, 2 April 2008 – Mobile and Wireless Group (MWg) today announced the availability of the Atom V. The handset with inbuilt GPS, exclusively designed for MWg, will be available at authorised retailers in Malaysia in the first week of April 2008.

MWg’s Atom V is the ideal partner for navigating the city streets. The Atom V’s inbuilt SiRF Star-III GPS chipset is every urban explorer’s trusty companion, ensuring that users always find their way to their next destination.

With Atom V’s host of connectivity options, users are always only a call or email away, no matter how far away from home. The high speed 3.5G HSDPA and onboard Wi-Fi lets users stay connected, available and ready anytime, anywhere.

The handset features a slim profile of 14.95mm and is bathed in a midnight blue hue. The exclusive design features a 2.8” LCD screen that extends throughout the front face of the device. This touch screen surface combined with the scroll wheel and four buttons strike a perfect balance of form and function.

When it comes to speed, the Atom V features an Intel processor running Microsoft® Windows Mobile 6 Professional® at a zippy 520 Mhz. The speedy CPU provides a responsive and intuitive user experience without being a drain on power resources. This ensures up to 3.5 hours talk time, or 150 hours standby time, depending on usage.

Rounding off MWg’s maiden product is a host of features such as a 2.0 mega-pixel camera with auto focus and FM radio with RDS (Radio Data System) that provides data on the station, the current track on air from a station and even traffic alerts.

“We see ourselves in a unique position of having inherited the premium heritage of a global brand and the agility and flexibility of a start-up.” said Mark Billington, CEO of MWg.

“As a start-up, we naturally work with like-minded and innovative partners to offer an engaging experience for our customers. Our devices are designed to complement the consumers’ lifestyle needs.”

MWg is a Singapore-based start-up, formed by the former management of O2 Asia, which develops and markets premium converged devices for a global market. Since its formation in November 2007, the company consolidated its presence in Asia with offices in Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the Middle East, it has also expanded into UK and USA. Through an investment by London-listed online retailer eXpansys, MWg will also expand its retail channels to cover the online demand for its products.

Atom V is the first product to be launched in Asia under MWg and the third product to be launched in the US and the EU (after Atom Life and Ubiquio 503g). A further three to six products are planned in 2008 including the Zinc II to be launched in Q2.

The Atom V will retail at RM2,368 inclusive of a 12 month local warranty.

Panasonic Aims to Sell More TVs with Viera

There were two events i attended yesterday (2nd April), namely launching of Panasonic Viera plasma TV and MWg PDA. This is one of the events, which the news i abstracted from The Star - Starbiz (page B6, Thurs, 3 April).

From left: Tony Endoh, Panasonic AVC Japan group manager of visual display business group Ken Shimizu, Panasonic AVC Japan group manager of AVC product Mark Kobayashi and Panasonic Malaysia Sdn Bhd assistant general manager of digital audio visual products Liew Choon Wah at the Viera TV models launch.

PETALING JAYA: Panasonic Malaysia Sdn Bhd has launched 11 new models of Viera plasma and LCD televisions and is targeting to sell more than 40,000 large-screen TV sets by year-end.

Managing director Tony Endoh said the demand for flat-panel TVs was rising fast, while those measuring 37 inches and above would make up more than 50% of total current TV sales.

“We target 30% domestic market share in this category (37-inch or more flat-panel TVs),” he told reporters after the launch of the Viera models yesterday.

The new models included the TH-42PV8H and TH-42PV80H, priced at RM4,899 and RM5,199 respectively, while LCD model TX-37LX80MK was tagged at RM3,999. The prices of other models will be released later.

Endoh said its TV sales division, which sold 30,000 units, contributed 8% to the group’s revenue for the financial year ended March 31, 2008 (FY08).

The division accounted for 35% of the group’s audio-visual division turnover, he added.

On the outlook for the electrical and electronic market, he said price competition would pose a challenge this year when more products were introduced to the market.

However, the market was still positive despite the current global slowdown as well as the escalating oil prices and current political situation, he added.

According to Endoh, the demand for TVs in FY08 totalled 168,000 units. Currently, Panasonic’s local market share for plasma and LCD TV is about 46.8% and 20% respectively.

Panasonic would invest RM54mil in advertising and RM170mil for promotion in FY09, he said, adding that RM10mil would be spent to promote Viera TV.

Meanwhile, the group, which recorded turnover of RM1.46bil in FY08, was targeting sales of RM1.55bil in FY09, he said.

Panasonic has about 700 outlets in Malaysia.

What’s up on 2nd April 2008?

1. The FIABCI Malaysia morning talk "The Impact of General Election on Real Estate Industy" by Datuk Dr Michael Yeoh, CEO/Co-founder of ASLI at Dewan Berjaya, Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort, KL at 8am.

2. Panasonic launches the 2008 line-up of Viera flat panel televisions at Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall & Sunway Convention Centre, Selangor at 9am.

3. MMC-Gamuda Electrified Double Tracking Project briefing and site visit at No 16, Jln Maju 3, Pusat Perniagaan Maju, Jln Megat Harun, Bukit Mertajam, Penang at 9.30am.

4. KFC Malaysia celebrates 35th anniversary at KFC Kota Damansara, Jln Cecawi 6/18, Seksyen 16, Kota Damansara, PJ, Selangor at 10am.

5. The Mobile & Wireless Group or MWg (formerly O2 Asia) unveiling the new Atom V and sharing with media a host of new products and the company’s plan in Malaysia and across the region at Isthmus Kuala Lumpur, Ground Floor, Northpoint, Mid Valley at 3 to 5pm.

What's Up on April Fool?

There are several business events are expected 2moro - 1 April 2008, as early as 8:30am till 8:00pm. But none of the business is my business and all the businesses are none of my business! By the way, happy April Fool.

1. Launch of the conference on Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Market 2008 at Auditorium, SKMM, Cyberjaya at 8.30am.

2. Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to hold forum on BN and Umno's performance at the 12th General Election at Hotel Singgahsana, PJ, 9am.

3. Multi-Purpose Holdings Bhd EGM at 25th Flr, Menara Multi-Purpose, Capital Square, KL at 9am.

4. The Regent of Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah to grace the official opening of the Asiawater 2008 Expo & Forum, Plenary Theater, Level 3, KL Convention Centre at 10am.

5. Official launch of HELP University College's Subang 2 Campus and HELP 's 22nd anniversary celebration at Grand Ballroom, Shangri-La Hotel, KL at 10am.

6. Launching of Pizza Hut and Maybank's partnership for online payment service at Pizza Hut Kota Damansara, Jln Cecawi 6/18, Seksyen 16, Kota Damansara, PJ, Selangor at 10am.

7. Boustead Heavy Industries Corp Bhd AGM at 4th Flr, Menara Boustead, Jln Raja Chulan, KL at 10am.

8. Signing ceremony of Hybrid Musharakah agreement between Affin Islamic Bank Bhd and Mutiara Goodyear Development Bhd at Auditorium, 18th Flr Menara Affin, Jln Raja Chulan, KL at 11.30am.

9. UAC Bhd AGM at 4th Flr, Menara Boustead, Jln Raja Chulan, KL at 11.30am.

10. Decagon Devices Inc, USA launches new products at Level 15, Sunway Resort Hotel, Selangor at 12pm.

11. Datuk Mohd Shafie attends the handover entertainment duty and signing of MoU with National Geographic Channel at Studio Sound Stage, Kompleks Studio Merdeka, Jln Ulu Kelang, KL at 3.30pm.

12. Second Minister of Finance Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop at the Ministry of Finance's Appreciation Dinner, Multi Purpose Hall, Ministry Of Finance, Putrajaya at 8pm.