Latest news with #Aisyah
The Sun
01-08-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Proton X50 debuts world's first Bahasa Melayu Voice Recognition system
PROTON has unveiled the world's first Bahasa Melayu Voice Recognition (VR) system, integrated into the newly launched All-New Proton X50. This development positions the national automaker as a global pioneer in intelligent in-car technology, seven years after it first introduced its English-language 'Hi Proton' voice assistant in 2018. At the core of the new Proton X50's advanced digital interface is a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, now capable of understanding and responding to voice commands in both English and Bahasa Melayu. This bilingual feature sets Proton apart as the only car manufacturer in the world to offer such dual-language voice command functionality, providing a more inclusive, intuitive and safer driving experience tailored to Malaysian motorists. The Bahasa Melayu VR assistant has been given the name 'Aisyah'—a personable and approachable female persona designed to evoke the warmth of a companion or trusted family member. The system was developed in just seven months, well ahead of its original year-long schedule. Between October 2024 and May 2025, engineers and language experts worked intensively to develop the technology, collecting over 4,000 unique voice command phrases in both Bahasa Melayu and English. The project, undertaken in collaboration with ACO Tech—a Proton joint venture specialising in smart mobility solutions—involved more than 336,000 manhours. To ensure the system's accuracy across different speech patterns, voice data was gathered from more than 200 native Bahasa Malaysia speakers, evenly balanced between male and female voices. The result is a system that understands various natural language inputs such as 'buka tingkap' and 'bukakan tingkap' (open the window), reflecting the everyday way Malaysians speak. Proton's journey into voice recognition began with the original X70 in 2018, which debuted the Geely Smart Ecosystem (GKUI). In 2022, the X50 became the first connected vehicle in Malaysia to introduce the ATLAS (ACO Tech Local Automotive Services) infotainment operating system, along with an English-based voice assistant optimised for Malaysian usage. This feature allowed drivers to control essential functions—including phone calls, music, navigation, climate control, and windows–without taking their hands off the steering wheel or eyes off the road, significantly improving driving safety. The utility of Proton's voice recognition system continues to be evident in its popularity among users. In June 2025 alone, Proton recorded 2.8 million voice command interactions from 228,046 active users. 'Hello' was the most spoken word, followed by questions starting with 'What'–such as 'What is the weather like today'–and commands using 'Call,' with 43,896, 40,779, and 24,647 instances, respectively. The company has confirmed that future improvements to the VR system will be delivered via over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring a continuously evolving and smarter in-car experience. These updates will include expanded vocabulary, smarter natural language comprehension–such as interpreting 'I want to see the sky' to trigger the sunroof–and additional voice options, including male voice recognition. Proton is also exploring the inclusion of other languages and local dialects to further enhance its accessibility. With this groundbreaking feature, the All-New Proton X50 represents not just a step forward in vehicle connectivity but a bold declaration of Malaysian automotive innovation on the world stage.
The Sun
01-08-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Proton makes global history with launch of first-ever Bahasa Melayu Voice Recognition in new X50
PROTON has unveiled the world's first Bahasa Melayu Voice Recognition (VR) system, integrated into the newly launched All-New Proton X50. This development positions the national automaker as a global pioneer in intelligent in-car technology, seven years after it first introduced its English-language 'Hi Proton' voice assistant in 2018. At the core of the new Proton X50's advanced digital interface is a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, now capable of understanding and responding to voice commands in both English and Bahasa Melayu. This bilingual feature sets Proton apart as the only car manufacturer in the world to offer such dual-language voice command functionality, providing a more inclusive, intuitive and safer driving experience tailored to Malaysian motorists. The Bahasa Melayu VR assistant has been given the name 'Aisyah'—a personable and approachable female persona designed to evoke the warmth of a companion or trusted family member. The system was developed in just seven months, well ahead of its original year-long schedule. Between October 2024 and May 2025, engineers and language experts worked intensively to develop the technology, collecting over 4,000 unique voice command phrases in both Bahasa Melayu and English. The project, undertaken in collaboration with ACO Tech—a Proton joint venture specialising in smart mobility solutions—involved more than 336,000 manhours. To ensure the system's accuracy across different speech patterns, voice data was gathered from more than 200 native Bahasa Malaysia speakers, evenly balanced between male and female voices. The result is a system that understands various natural language inputs such as 'buka tingkap' and 'bukakan tingkap' (open the window), reflecting the everyday way Malaysians speak. Proton's journey into voice recognition began with the original X70 in 2018, which debuted the Geely Smart Ecosystem (GKUI). In 2022, the X50 became the first connected vehicle in Malaysia to introduce the ATLAS (ACO Tech Local Automotive Services) infotainment operating system, along with an English-based voice assistant optimised for Malaysian usage. This feature allowed drivers to control essential functions—including phone calls, music, navigation, climate control, and windows–without taking their hands off the steering wheel or eyes off the road, significantly improving driving safety. The utility of Proton's voice recognition system continues to be evident in its popularity among users. In June 2025 alone, Proton recorded 2.8 million voice command interactions from 228,046 active users. 'Hello' was the most spoken word, followed by questions starting with 'What'–such as 'What is the weather like today'–and commands using 'Call,' with 43,896, 40,779, and 24,647 instances, respectively. The company has confirmed that future improvements to the VR system will be delivered via over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring a continuously evolving and smarter in-car experience. These updates will include expanded vocabulary, smarter natural language comprehension–such as interpreting 'I want to see the sky' to trigger the sunroof–and additional voice options, including male voice recognition. Proton is also exploring the inclusion of other languages and local dialects to further enhance its accessibility. With this groundbreaking feature, the All-New Proton X50 represents not just a step forward in vehicle connectivity but a bold declaration of Malaysian automotive innovation on the world stage.
The Star
30-07-2025
- The Star
Penang NGO celebrates 40 years of being a lifeline for women and children
In the heart of Penang, a quiet movement has been transforming lives for four decades. It began in the mid-1980s, when a small group of volunteers offered crisis counselling for domestic violence survivors from a small municipal car park. Today, the Women's Centre for Change (WCC) is a nationally recognised organisation, known for championing the rights of women and children, helping to shape national policies, and standing firmly beside those navigating some of life's most difficult experiences. As WCC celebrates its 40th anniversary, its legacy is best reflected in the voices of the women it has walked with, like Aisyah and Lisa (*pseudonyms), who found safety and a renewed hope through the organisation's support. WCC works with Penang Women's Development Corporation (PWDC) and One Stop Crisis Centre (OSCC) in public hospitals to train First Support Points to respond to domestic violence cases. New life Aisyah was abused by her father from the age of six to 16. Photo: FreepikAisyah was sexually abused by her father since she was six. The emotional and physical trauma shaped her entire childhood. She only realised something was deeply wrong after a school lesson on personal safety. But fear kept her silent. Her father had threatened to hurt her mother. Unable to bear the burden any longer, Aisyah confided in her mother, hoping to find support. But instead, she faced disbelief and anger. Isolated and in despair, her mental health deteriorated and she left school. At 17, she fled from home. With her foster sister's encouragement, Aisyah filed a police report and was sent to the hospital for a medical examination. She was referred to WCC's centre at the Women's Service Centre (PPW) in Seberang Perai for counselling. But her mother intercepted appointments and limited her phone access. A year later, Aisyah finally connected with a health clinic counsellor, who referred her directly to PPW. Through four counselling sessions, a PPW social worker taught her coping skills for what she had gone through. Pressured by relatives to withdraw her case, Aisyah's emotional and physical health declined. She had post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (MDD) and epilepsy, which required hospital care and medication. Two years later, her father was finally charged in court. Supported and accompanied by her fiance, PPW's social worker and her psychologist, Aisyah attended the trial. At the fourth hearing, the accused pleaded guilty and was sentenced. For Aisyah, now 18, it was a long-awaited turning point. 'I want to leave the pain behind and build a new life – with peace and purpose – with those who have supported me,' she says. Turning point Lisa, a mother of six, endured abuse from her husband for over a decade – physical intimidation, emotional control and financial restrictions. Photo: FreepikLisa, a mother of six, endured abuse from her husband for over a decade – physical intimidation, emotional control and financial restrictions. He dictated her every move, isolating her from loved ones, even pulling her daughters out of school during the pandemic. In 2022, after a violent attack, Lisa decided to leave him. As she was walking by WCC, she instinctively walked in. The WCC social workers supported her over the next two years, providing crucial counselling to help her heal emotionally and rebuild her self-worth. They also helped her find work as a seamstress. WCC also provided counselling for her daughter who developed anxiety disorder and helped Lisa build strategies to support her son who struggled with anger issues and suicidal thoughts. They also helped raise emergency funds for her children's schooling and food. Eighteen months later, Lisa filed for divorce. The process was difficult and contested. But the WCC social workers were by her side every step of the way, providing emotional support and accompanying her to court hearings. Today, Lisa is financially independent and emotionally grounded. She took on multiple jobs to support her family – driving a school van, giving tuition and doing administrative work. 'WCC helped me move from survival to strength. They stood by me when I felt completely alone,' she says. Decades of impact I hope the next generation of women will be bold, compassionate and unafraid to speak out, says WCC executive director Loh Cheng Kooi, stories like Aisyah's and Lisa's embody what the NGO stands for. 'We have grown from a small crisis centre into a comprehensive organisation providing emotional support, legal aid, outreach, education and policy advocacy,' she says. Among WCC's proudest milestones are its school-based programmes: 'Ok Tak Ok', which teaches children about good and bad touch, and 'Respek', which educates teens on healthy relationships. These programmes have reached tens of thousands of students. In 2023, 'Ok Tak Ok' was held in 67 schools, attended by 7,700 children. WCC has also played a key role in national reform. Its support in a high-profile workplace misconduct case in the early 2000s was instrumental in pushing for the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act (2022). Its research into child-related offences contributed to the development of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act (2017), a law that better protects minors. Another major step came in 2009, when the Penang state government partnered with WCC to open PPW in Seberang Perai. Today, PPW handles nearly twice the number of cases compared to the island office, revealing a critical need for accessible services on the mainland. In 2017, WCC launched the WCC Value Shop, a preloved goods store that now provides sustainable source of income for the organisation – run with the help of volunteers. Looking ahead Social media campaigns are important for WCC to reach to a wider audience. 'There's still much work to do,' Loh notes. 'We need more trained professionals, stronger coordination among agencies, and a cultural shift in how society views survivors.' With digital access rising and many young people exposed to unhealthy content early, Loh says prevention must start young. 'By teaching children about respect, safety and body autonomy, we empower them to protect themselves and others.' Loh also emphasises the importance of internal care. 'This work takes a toll. So we make sure our team has regular peer check-ins, case sharing and time for self-care.' 'As for the future, I hope the next generation of women will be bold, compassionate and unafraid to speak out,' she says. 'Together, we can build a safer, more just society.'
The Star
04-07-2025
- Health
- The Star
Cancer survivor goes from battle to blackboard
Proud moment: Aisyah posing for a photo after the 15th IPGM convocation ceremony. — Low Lay Phon/The Star KAJANG: Breast cancer survivor, Aisyah Humaira' Mohd Aqbal, is a step closer to achieving her ambition of becoming a Bahasa Melayu (BM) teacher. The 23-year-old Alor Setar native dedicated her achievement to her late mother, her pillar of strength who encouraged her to take up teaching. Graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Teaching with a major in BM for primary education, Aisyah said her journey was filled with obstacles – but she never gave up. She was diagnosed with Stage Four breast cancer last year. 'Right after the diagnosis, the doctor started me on chemotherapy. I went through nine sessions and it was a painful experience. 'We had to change the chemo drug three times because it wasn't working. Eventually, I was put on hormone therapy and now take medication daily,' she said during the Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia (IPGM) convocation ceremony in Bangi yesterday. Throughout her battle with cancer, Aisyah was determined to finish her studies. 'I didn't want to waste the five years I had put into this journey. 'Being sick was never an excuse. I was determined to complete this,' said the IPG Darulaman campus graduate. Even though she often missed classes on chemotherapy treatment days, Aisyah kept up with lessons thanks to her lecturers and friends. 'I would WhatsApp my lecturers after chemo sessions and catch up on what I missed. 'My friends really helped me, especially with assignments. They shared materials and even their food with me,' she said. The second of three siblings explained that her father was her other pillar that kept her strong. 'My father makes and delivers kuih to local shops in Alor Setar. He and my late mum built the business together, and now he continues it. '(My mother) had knee problems and couldn't walk, but in the end, it was a stroke and Covid-19 that took her. I just wish she could be here to witness this. 'My mum encouraged me to apply to IPGM after my Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) exams. She always loved teaching and recommended me to major in teaching BM. 'If she were here, I'd just want to say thank you. This degree is for her,' she said. Asked what kept her motivated throughout her illness, she said it was all about purpose. 'Stay strong. If you feel down, look at the people around you. 'We all have someone we want to make proud – our parents, our siblings. Don't give up,' she said. The four-day 15th Education Ministry IPGM Convocation Ceremony, which started on June 30, involved 5,390 graduates who completed their studies and teacher training at 28 IPGM campuses and English Language Teaching Centres.
New Straits Times
03-07-2025
- Health
- New Straits Times
Aisyah lost her mum, fought cancer but never gave up her teaching dream
BANGI: The road to achieving her dream of becoming a teacher was anything but easy for 23-year-old Aisyah Humaira' Mohd Aqbal. She lost her mother during the first year of her studies, and her situation was compounded when she was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer in her fourth year. Despite the odds including enduring nine rounds of chemotherapy, the Teacher Education Institute (IPG) graduate who specialised in Malay language education persevered and completed her degree. "I wasn't too disheartened when I was first diagnosed with cancer. All I wanted was to complete my studies as soon as possible. "My doctors were very encouraging and urged me to begin treatment immediately. "Some of my friends were shocked and saddened when they found out," she said when met at the 15th Convocation Ceremony of the Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia (IPGM) in Bangi today. Aisyah said she had to miss several classes during her recovery, as each chemotherapy session left her too weak to attend lectures. "There were many challenges. I had to skip classes while undergoing treatment because I couldn't return right after chemo. "That was one of the sacrifices I had to make to finish my studies. For me, I had to keep fighting to complete these five years," she said. Aisyah said her mother died due to Covid-19 and a stroke during her first year at IPG, a tragedy that became a source of strength and motivation to carry on. "My late mother was a Malay language teacher, and I inherited my passion for teaching from her. "When she fell ill, I was able to return home to take care of her before she passed away." Due to her medical condition, Aisyah was transferred from the Sarawak campus to IPG Darulaman so she could continue her studies while receiving treatment at Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital. Meanwhile, the ceremony turned sombre when the parents of the late Nurul Alya Fatnin Mohd Mawardzi took to the stage to receive their daughter's scroll on her behalf. Nurul Alya, an Islamic Education student from IPG Sultan Mizan Campus in Besut, Terengganu, died in a road accident shortly before completing her studies. Her scroll was presented by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.
