TOSHIBA EMPOWERS MOTHERS’ BREASTFEEDING JOURNEY

Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia recently launched its "Empowering Every Mother's Journey" initiative in conjunction with the World Breastfeeding Month 2026.

Aimed at inspiring and empowering mothers and promoting breastfeeding through meaningful conversations, expert insights and practical support, Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia highlighted the importance of a supportive environment for mothers and newborns at a special event officiated by YB Yeo Bee Yin, Chairperson of the Parliament Select Committee (PSC) for Women, Children and Community Development.

 
Vanice Foo, Head of Brand Management, Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia said "At Toshiba, we believe innovation should serve a greater purpose by enhancing the quality of everyday life. Supporting families and mothers with insights and home solutions mothers goes beyond, enabling them to navigate important moments with greater confidence. By integrating technology, education and community care, we aim to support mothers throughout their breastfeeding journey and contribute towards healthier beginnings for newborns."

 
YB Yeo Bee Yin emphasised "Breastfeeding is not only a mother's personal journey but also involves families, communities and healthcare professionals. Mothers may face many challenges in their motherhood journey. Today's initiative demonstrates the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in educating and building a more supportive environment for mothers and babies."

 
A panel discussion saw YB Yeo Bee Yin sharing perspectives alongside Elizabeth Richard, Certified Lactation Consultant & Infant Care Expert and Natasha Hudson, model, ceramist and wellness advocate on the realities of breastfeeding. They also highlighted the importance of education, support systems and making informed choices when empowering mothers on their breastfeeding journeys.

Elizabeth Richard, Certified Lactation Consultant & Infant Care Expert explained "breast milk provides important nutritional and protective benefits to support a baby's growth, development and overall well-being. However, breastfeeding can come with physical, emotional and practical challenges. Without the right information and support, mothers may find it difficult to continue. Consistent education, professional guidance and a supportive environment are essential in helping mothers feel more confident throughout their breastfeeding journey."

Renowned actress, model, ceramist and wellness advocate Natasha Hudson opined every mother's journey is unique, shaped by its own challenges and beautiful moments. "Having the right support can make a meaningful difference. Conversations like these are important reminders a mother's well-being matters too."

 
In conjunction with the breastfeeding awareness event, Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia supported The Nesting Place Confinement Centre, Kimporo Postnatal Rejuvenation Centre and LYC Mother & Child Centre by donating refrigerators, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers valued at approximately RM60,000.

Parenthood Records lauded Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia for the Most Home Appliances Donated to Confinement Centres, paying tribute to Toshiba's commitment in supporting mothers and babies through the provision of safer, healthier and more nurturing postpartum environments.

Guests at the launch event also experienced Toshiba's home solutions in creating a more comfortable, hygienic and calming environment for mothers, babies and families. 

The immersive 5-Senses Toshiba Lifestyle Experience Zone highlighted Toshiba's wider home solution ecosystem in creating a nurturing home for mothers and supporting their breastfeeding journey.

For information about Toshiba Lifestyle Malaysia, visit
www.toshiba-lifestyle.com/my

MILLENNIA VILLAGE REDEFINES SENIOR LIVING

Inspired by the emblematic "Hakka Tulou" (客家土楼), the central communal space to foster camaraderie and strengthen ties within traditional Hakka communities, Millennia Village is reputedly the first purpose-built senior living resort in Malaysia.

Nestled on a 32-acre lush enclave in Seremban, Millennia Village aims to redefine the lifestyle of seniors as "the start of more enriching and purposeful golden years”.

Surrounded by prolific greenery and native trees, the main building’s "Hakka Tulou" inspired design envisaged a collective community where residents converge, connect, communicate, and share life experiences.

According to John Chia, Founder of Millennia Village, "We believe seniors deserve more than just a place to stay. They should be in a community catering to their unique needs. We believe the golden years can be just as exciting and rewarding.”

Executive Director of Millennia Village, Diane Chia (right) adds, “Millennia Village is inspired by the principles of Blue Zones, focusing on healthy habits, togetherness and happiness. Those factors contribute to seniors’ longevity and well-being. We aim to enhance the quality of senior lifestyle by providing a safe, comfortable, and socially engaging environment. The tranquility of our location means pristine air quality, minimal traffic and noise along with an unparalleled level of privacy and security.”

We were assigned a 481 sqft Studio Suite room. Clad in white and neutral earth tones with clean, minimalist approach, the glass doors lead outside to a balcony with soothing views of the granite rock wall covered with trees and shrubbery.

Bathroom handrails, a panic button and a wall-mounted fold-up stool are found in the shower and toilet. The door is wide enough for wheelchair access although it would be nice to have a more accessible shelf for toiletries, bath sponge and spectacles.

The current recess space beside the shower cubicle seemed odd and not user-friendly. Also, the empty space in-between means water splashing out of the shower area is inevitable even though the curtain is fully drawn.

Our room layout is nice and practical featuring a long kitchen counter equipped with an induction stove top, microwave oven, electric kettle and sink. Furnishings include a couch with a coffee table, a dining table, a floor-to-ceiling closet and wooden sideboard.

Electrical appliances provided are a fridge, an induction cooker with hood, an electric kettle and a microwave oven. There’s aslo a flatscreen TV and a working desk. Fans, an air-conditioning unit and Wi-Fi access are par for the course.

Currently, breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at Saffron all-day dining restaurant. There’s plenty of natural daylight within the space. A private room is also available for group dining.

One floor above is Kopitiam which will be serving simple, local fare and snack items. Plans are afoot for a grab & go bakery cum convenience store of sorts.

Located at the 9th Floor of Block B, The Rooftop is ideal for lounging around with friends for drinks and conversation. The balcony seating accords panoramic vista of the nearby surroundings.

We love the saltwater infinity swimming pool where aquarobics classes can be held. Nearby is a walking trail with various fitness equipment for those who desire working out in the open.

More walking paths with a 2-acre nursery for eco-farming and zero waste practices e.g. growing organic produce and composting food waste are also available. Avid gardeners will like pottering around the raised garden beds and elevated planters. Built using permaculture principles, the fertile farm garden aims to provide edible herbs and vegetables for a farm-to-table experience.

Serene strolls along trails purpose-built by the Orang Asli wends through a regenerated forest covering 8 acres of prime land amidst the stunning vistas of a majestic rugged granite rock face.

Planned group fitness activities: tai chi, line dancing, senior yoga, physiotherapy, and stretching exercises to arts and craft and even a community kitchen should keep senior residents occupied and fulfilled. A gym, a multi-purpose studio, an airy and spacious library, a games room, a theatre and event space accommodating up to 200 persons are found onsite.

The first phase of 344 units features one- and two-bedroom units tailored for independent senior living whilst the second phase will comprise 75 units for seniors requiring assisted care. Phase three will offer larger units for independent senior living.

Millennia Village offers medium and long-term tenancies of 1 month to 3 years, with pricing depending on the stay duration. For a limited time only, Millennia Village is offering a long stay promotion at RM5,500 per month for two persons.

A trial stay of 3D/2N is also available from RM1,200 for two persons. All room packages include a fully furnished unit, housekeeping, Wi-Fi, free access to all facilities, daily breakfast and dinner. The offers are valid until 31 August 2024 and are subject to prevailing taxes.

For more information about Millennia Village, please call 06-7609677, email: dianechia@milenniavillage.com or visit www.millenniavillage.com.