Malaysia Airlines Enhances Bonus Side Trip For International Travellers

* Double The Adventure And Discover More Of Malaysia Ahead Of Visit Malaysia Year 2026

Malaysia Airlines continues to redefine the travel experience with its innovative Bonus Side Trip (BST) programme, offering international travellers the opportunity to explore Malaysia’s hidden gems at no extra fare. Whether transiting through Kuala Lumpur or planning an extended stay, travellers can explore a second Malaysian destination effortlessly, experiencing more of the country’s cultural richness, natural landscapes, and authentic local hospitality.

Available to Malaysia Airlines’ international passengers who travel through Kuala Lumpur, BST offers a domestic return flight to one of seven selected Malaysian destinations at no extra fare. Travellers can choose to stop over in Langkawi, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuantan, Alor Star, Kuala Terrengganu and Kota Bharu before continuing to the last leg of their journey. Unlike traditional stopover packages, BST is fully integrated into the ticket fare and booking journey, turning every international journey into a multi-destination Malaysian adventure.

Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, Malaysia Aviation Group said, “As the national carrier, Malaysia Airlines invites global travellers to experience more and uncover the vibrant beauty of Malaysia through a side trip to one of seven handpicked domestic destinations. The Bonus Side Trip reflects our commitment to championing Malaysia as a preferred destination in Asia. It goes beyond connectivity, curating experiences that extend our Malaysian Hospitality into every corner of the country.”

The Bonus Side Trip programme is part of Malaysia Airlines’ broader strategy to support Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and stimulate sustainable tourism growth. The initiative is designed to encourage domestic exploration beyond Malaysia’s capital, allowing international travellers to explore secondary destinations that are rich in culture, heritage, and natural beauty. By strengthening the connection between international arrivals and local tourism economies, the programme drives inclusive growth and supports businesses and communities across the country. It also reinforces Malaysia Airlines’ role as the gateway to Asia and beyond, seamlessly bridging international access with local discovery.

Coinciding with the Malaysia Airlines Trade Elevation Summit held in Langkawi this week, the airline hosted a group of international key opinion leaders (KOLs) from Indonesia, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Australia, India and Korea to experience Langkawi as a featured Bonus Side Trip destination. Their curated itinerary brought the island to life through immersive experiences that included the UNESCO-certified Kilim Geoforest Park, Langkawi SkyCab, sunset cruises, and authentic local crafts, showcasing the island’s blend of nature, culture, and lifestyle.

The specially curated journey offered a taste of what makes Langkawi a standout destination, where nature, culture, and hospitality come together to create a truly Malaysian holiday experience. Through this immersive visit, Malaysia Airlines demonstrated how the Bonus Side Trip transforms a single international journey into something far more memorable.

The Bonus Side Trip reflects the airline’s unwavering commitment to delivering its signature Malaysian Hospitality at every step of the touchpoint. As Visit Malaysia Year 2026 approaches, this unique offering by Malaysia Airlines invites international travellers to discover more of Malaysia’s charm, seamlessly and meaningfully.

Travellers are encouraged to book with Malaysia Airlines and unlock the added value of exploring a second destination, all in one unforgettable trip. For more details and to book exclusive travel deals, please visit www.malaysiaairlines.com.

About Malaysia Airlines

Malaysia Airlines is the national carrier of Malaysia, offering premium and full-service travel options to, from, and within the country. As the gateway to Asia and beyond, the airline carries up to 40,000 guests daily on memorable journeys inspired by Malaysia’s diverse heritage. Malaysia Airlines embodies the nation's rich traditions, cultures, and cuisines, delivering an unparalleled experience through its signature Malaysian Hospitality across every customer touchpoint.

Since September 2015, the airline has been owned and operated by Malaysia Airlines Berhad. It is part of the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) – a global aviation organisation comprising a range of aviation and lifestyle travel solution portfolios aimed at serving global air travel needs.

As a member of the oneworld® alliance, Malaysia Airlines offers enhanced connectivity to more than 900 destinations in 170 territories worldwide. For more information, visit www.malaysiaairlines.com or download the Malaysia Airlines app for the latest promotions at your fingertips.

Issued by Group Communications, Malaysia Aviation Group. 

PNB Disbursed Rs 17.02 Cr Under The Rakshak Plus Saving Account Scheme To Honour The Bravehearts Of India

*  As part of Q1 FY26, the Bank presented 26 cheques to grieving families 

Reaffirming its unwavering support to the brave soldiers protecting our nation, Punjab National Bank (PNB), the nation's leading public sector bank, extended a support of ?17.02 crore to the families of 26 deceased defence and paramilitary personnel under its flagship Rakshak Plus Scheme, as of 11 June in the first quarter of FY 2025–26.

Among the 26 recipients were the families of operations like Birli Gali, who made the supreme sacrifice while serving the nation. In solemn recognition of their valour and dedication, PNB officials, in coordination with local administration, handed over cheques to the bereaved families across 26 locations in various states, extending heartfelt support and honouring their heroic contributions.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Binay Gupta, CGM, BARM, PNB, said “It is our solemn duty to stand by the families of our martyrs. Through the Rakshak Plus Scheme, PNB offers more than financial assistance—it serves as a symbol of our respect and enduring support for their immense sacrifices. We salute the courage of our Bravehearts and pledge to be a pillar of strength to their families.”

PNB’s Rakshak Plus Scheme provides financial coverage in the form of personal accidental insurance of ?1 crore in case of death as well as permanent total disability and air accidental coverage of ?1.5 crore in the event of death. The scheme includes partial disability coverage and comprehensive benefits tailored to the needs of those in uniform.

In line with the Bank's commitment to honouring national heroes, PNB continues to ensure timely financial support to the bereaved family.

Myntra Cares Launches 'Cupboard Of Care' And 'Project Restyle' In Partnership ith BBMP And Saahas Zero Waste

* The initiatives are set to extend the life cycle of clothes through reuse, recycle and upcycle ahead of World Environment Day

Myntra, one of India's leading fashion and lifestyle platforms, has launched two key initiatives, 'Myntra Cupboard of Care' and 'Project Restyle,' in collaboration with Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and Saahas Zero Waste, as a part of its CSR initiatives under  Myntra Cares. Designed to promote a circular economy in the fashion and textile industry, and extend the life cycle of clothes through reuse, recycle and upcycle; these programs have been launched in Bengaluru.

The Myntra Cupboard of Care is a set of thoughtfully designed all weatherproof donation-and-pick-up kiosks installed outside selected major tech parks in Bengaluru. Implemented in partnership with BBMP and Saahas Zero Waste, the initiative enables anyone to drop off their pre-loved clothes and anyone in need to pick them up. Unclaimed items will be sent to Saahas' textile recovery centre for upcycling into new products.

Complementing the public-facing kiosks is Project Restyle, which aims to engage gated residential communities across Bengaluru. Branded collection bins will be placed in 20 apartment complexes, encouraging residents to donate clothes. The collected garments will be segregated into different grades by Saahas Zero Waste and accordingly sent to the textile recovery centre for reuse, recycle, or upcycle. This process will also create jobs and livelihood for underserved communities.

Adding to this, Ramesh K N., IAS, Commissioner, Mahadevapura Zone, BBMP, said, "Myntra's CSR initiatives present a pragmatic model that addresses both environmental concerns and social equity. We commend Myntra's approach in making this a collaborative effort that utilizes public spaces for the public good while aligning with BBMP's sustainability priorities."

Speaking on the occasion, Govindraj MK, CHRO Myntra, said, "With initiatives like the Cupboard of Care and Project Restyle, we're taking small but meaningful steps toward promoting circular economy in the fashion and textile industry. By enabling reuse, recycling and upcycling of garments, and working closely with communities and partners like BBMP and Saahas Zero Waste, we aim to keep more clothes in use for longer while also supporting the creation of new livelihood opportunities."

The first Myntra Cupboard of Care kiosk is inaugurated outside Myntra's HQ in Kadubeesanahalli by Govindraj MK, CHRO Myntra, Shobha Raghavan, CEO, Saahas Zero Waste, Ramesh K N., IAS, Commissioner, Mahadevapura Zone, BBMP with four additional installations planned for July across key tech park locations in Bengaluru. In parallel, Myntra Project Restyle has also kicked off in apartments across Bengaluru. As a gesture of appreciation, select contributing residents will receive sustainable goodies from Myntra each month.

Commenting on the partnership, Shobha Raghavan, CEO Saahas Zero Waste, said, "Circularity in textiles requires more than just intent, it needs infrastructure, awareness, and inclusive value chains. Through our partnership with Myntra, we are driving measurable impact by generating livelihoods, promoting circular fashion and responsible consumption. By embedding transparency and traceability into these programs, we are working toward a replicable model that other cities can adopt."

About Myntra

Myntra is one of the leading platforms for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle in India. An integral part of the Flipkart Group, Myntra brings together technology and fashion to create the best experience for millions of its customers. Myntra offers a wide range of over 10,000 brands such as MANGO, H&M, Levi’s, U.S. Polo Assn., Tommy Hilfiger, Louis Philippe, JACK & JONES, Forever 21, Marks & Spencer, MAC, Huda Beauty, and Estee Lauder, among others. With a wide reach, Myntra services over 95% of the pin codes covering the length and breadth of the country.

PNB Signs MoU With SCCL For Rs 1.25 Crore Personal Accidental Insurance Scheme

* Scheme offers up to Rs 2.50 Crore Air Accident Insurance cover along with comprehensive family protection 

Punjab National Bank (PNB), India’s leading public sector bank, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Singareni Colleries Company Limited (SCCL) to launch the comprehensive PNB Salary Saving Scheme featuring enhanced accidental insurance coverage of Rs 1.25 crore for SCCL employees.

The agreement was signed in Hyderabad in the presence of Shri Ashok Chandra, MD & CEO, PNB and other senior officials from both organisations, marking a significant milestone in providing comprehensive financial protection to coal mining workers and their families.

Comprehensive Coverage Features offered:

The PNB Salary Saving Scheme offers unprecedented coverage with:

Personal Accidental Insurance: Up to Rs 1.25 crore

Air Accidental Insurance: Up to Rs 2.50 crore

Term Life Insurance: Up to Rs 10 lakh

Hospital Cash Benefit: Up to Rs 60,000 per annum

Permanent Total Disability Cover: Up to Rs 1.25 crore

Family-Centric Benefits:

The scheme extends comprehensive support to employees' family through:

Family Banking Benefits: Zero balance accounts for spouse and up to 2 children and PAI of Rs 5 lakh each within the overall sum assured of account holder.

Higher Education Cover: Up to Rs 5 lakh for two dependent children (aged up to 25 years) for college and higher studies, available for up to three years.

 Marriage Cover for Daughters: Maximum Rs 10 lakh per daughter for marriage of up to two daughters (aged 18-25 years).

Emergency Support: Including ambulance charges (Rs 10,000), funeral expenses (Rs 10,000), emergency medical expenses (Rs 25,000), and air ambulance coverage (Rs 1 lakh).

Additional Banking Benefits:

SCCL employees will enjoy premium banking services including:

Free debit card for the primary account holder with additional Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh.

Free Credit Card, Cheque Book and concession in locker rent

Concessions on interest rates, documentation and upfront charges in retail loans

Present at the event, Shri Ashok Chandra, MD & CEO, PNB, said, "This agreement with SCCL will serve as a model for other sectors. The customised scheme is now effective for SCCL employees, and we are committed to extend similar comprehensive coverage to other industries soon."

SCCL’s employees can also explore these exclusive offerings by visiting their nearest PNB branch or contacting the bank's dedicated helplines.

Amrita University And Coastal Women Entrepreneurs Launch Devaamritam Seaweed Superfoods At Incredible Chef Challenge 2025

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s AMMACHI Labs, in collaboration with coastal women entrepreneurs from Tamil Nadu, launched the Devaamritam Seaweed Superfoods brand at the Incredible Chef Challenge (ICC) 2025 in Bengaluru. Held from June 12–13 and hosted by World of Hospitality in association with the South India Chef’s Association, the event featured over 300 chefs, hospitality professionals, and food industry leaders.

At a dedicated exhibition space, AMMACHI Labs showcased two flagship products: tangy, probiotic-rich seaweed pickles and savoury seaweed pakoras made from locally cultivated red seaweed. Visitors sampled the products and offered feedback on flavour, texture, and presentation, underscoring growing interest in seaweed as a sustainable and nutritious ingredient.

Representing AMMACHI Labs were Program Lead Mohan, Business Incubation and Productization Consultant Fang Nirbhaya Yuan, and Business Development Coordinator Jithu Gopan. They were joined by three entrepreneurs: Amalorpava Rakkini A. and Gnanasowndari Mosas from Olaikuda Village, and Dhanalakshmi Chandran from Sambai Village, who also demonstrated seaweed cultivation methods and traditional preparation techniques.

“Devaamritam bridges ancient marine wisdom with modern culinary trends,” said Mohan. “By empowering coastal women to cultivate and process seaweed, we’re supporting sustainable livelihoods and bringing an innovative product to conscious consumers.”

Following strong interest at ICC 2025, AMMACHI Labs is in early discussions with hotel chains, specialty retailers, and culinary experts to scale distribution and explore new recipe applications.

The initiative is part of Amrita’ s broader commitment to inclusive rural development and sustainable livelihood creation through skill development and community enterprise.

About Amrita University:

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is a distinguished multi-campus, multidisciplinary university, accredited with an A++ rating by NAAC. Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is ranked 81st globally in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2024, showcasing its dedication to meaningful education and research. The university spans nine campuses across five states. The university holds two UNESCO Chairs—one for Experiential Learning for Sustainable Innovation & Development and another for Gender Equality & Women’s Empowerment.

Headquartered in Coimbatore, Amrita operates across nine campuses in five states and is involved in over 500 global collaborations, including with Harvard University and the University of Oxford. Founded by Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), Amrita continues to embody her vision of education and research driven by universal values.

Samsung To Launch 2025 Line-Up Of Bespoke AI Appliances In India Next Week

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* AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Samsung, India's largest consumer electronics brand will launch its new range of Bespoke AI digital appliances on June 25. Through these appliances, Samsung aims to bring a new era of connected, intelligent, and personalized home experiences for Indian consumers.

The new range of appliances will come with intuitive, intelligent screens, two-way natural conversations, Knox security and SmartThings.

With its 2025 Bespoke AI range, Samsung is committed to transform homes into truly smart, secure, and energy-efficient spaces that respond proactively to consumer needs, making home living simpler and seamlessly connected.

Additionally, Samsung is organizing its first ever Bespoke AI Technical Seminar in India to showcase the technology behind its Bespoke AI appliances. Samsung will display its top of the line Bespoke AI Refrigerators, Washing Machines, Washer Dryer Combo and Air Conditioners at the Tech Seminar. Samsung will also demonstrate Multi-Device experience in action.

HDFC Life And Digamber Capfin Ltd. Collaborate To Cover Micro Loans And Make Life Insurance Accessible For All

HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers and Digamber Capfin Ltd. have come together with the aim of covering micro loans, thereby enhancing financial inclusion. This partnership would enable expanding access to life insurance across underserved regions of India.

This association will leverage Digamber Capfin’s extensive network across 120 districts in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, thus enabling deeper penetration of life insurance into semi-urban and rural markets.

This will give further impetus to the common objective of both organisations - to bridge the financial inclusion gap by reaching diverse and previously untapped communities. The initiative aligns with HDFC Life’s commitment to making life insurance accessible to every Indian, thus contributing to the larger goal of financial security and empowerment for all.

Speaking on this, Vineet Arora – Executive Director & Chief Business Officer, HDFC Life said, “We are pleased to collaborate with Digamber Capfin Ltd. The life insurance industry has set out to achieve the goal of ‘Insurance for all by 2047’. At HDFC Life, we are endeavoring to achieve this collective goal by enhancing our footprint across geographies. We believe this association will play an important role in insuring individuals, especially those belonging to the economically weaker section of the society, thus securing the future for them and their families.”

Speaking on the partnership, Rajiv Jain – Chairman and Managing Director, Digamber Capfin Ltd. said, “We are extremely delighted to partner with HDFC Life to ensure that every loan extended to underprivileged entrepreneurs gives them social security. This collaboration will provide financial protection to their families in the unfortunate event of the borrower’s demise. HDFC Life’s strong focus on customer centricity and its simplified, end-to-end processes will enable Digamber Capfin Ltd. to effectively extend insurance coverage to low-income individuals at the bottom of the pyramid.”

About HDFC Life

Established in 2000, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited (‘HDFC Life’ or the ‘Company’) is a leading provider of long-term life insurance solutions in India. It offers a broad range of individual and group plans across the Protection, Pension, Savings, Investment, Annuity, and Health categories, with a portfolio of products and optional riders designed to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

HDFC Life is a subsidiary of HDFC Bank Limited, one of India’s leading private banks. The Company has a nationwide presence, operating through its own branches and a network of over 300 distribution partners, including banks, NBFCs, MFIs, SFBs, brokers, and emerging ecosystem partners. HDFC Life also maintains a strong base of financial consultants.

Recognized as a great place to work, HDFC Life is deeply committed to governance and sustainability, ensuring responsible business practices that align with its long-term objectives.

For more information, visit www.hdfclife.com or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and LinkedIn.

About Digamber Capfin Ltd. 

Digamber Capfin Limited (Digamber Finance) started in the magnificent land of Rajasthan, Jaipur in 1995 with a sole mission to empower rural Indian minds with a range of financial services is today one of the leading providers of MFI Loans in the 8 states and 1 Union Territory with over 210 branches and more than 1850 employees working every day to enable the rural population to succeed and grow, who are striving to make a change in the society.

Having focused on serving the underprivileged who live in remote villages and who don’t have access to formal credit, Digamber Finance chooses to lend a helping hand to ambitious entrepreneurs who aspire to achieve big in life.

Today with a strong presence in 8 states and 1 Union Territory and covering over 120 districts, and giving smiles to over 1 million happy faces, Digamber Finance offers a wide range of microfinance loans for various purposes including Priority Sectors such as agricultural, small business loans etc.