Shopee Influencers Champion Human-Centric E-commerce in 2024

Shopee Influencers Champion Human-Centric E-commerce in 2024

Content creators humanise shopping experiences nationwide

Shopee Malaysia officially unveiled the ‘Championing Inclusive Commerce 2024’ study of over 3,000 Shopee Affiliates. The study discovered that 9 in 10 Affiliates are feeling positive for their e-commerce opportunities in 2024. These affiliates are excited to humanise e-commerce with increased personalisation, engage with more users on posts and livestreams, and drive more traffic for local sellers aligned with their values.


The Rise of Human-Centric Content

When asked on the e-commerce trends they are most excited to embrace in 2024, 75% of affiliates were enthusiastic about creating more personalised content for their audiences. Shopee Affiliates want to have more authentic engagements with their audiences (30%), seek to personalise their content further through product education posts and livestreams (30%), while the remaining want to collaborate with more local businesses to drive awareness (15%).

“Our affiliates are leading the charge in humanising e-commerce, providing users with original content and ultimately, building a stronger competitive edge for our local brands and sellers. This powerful statement tells us that Malaysian consumers are craving something real. They're tired of the perfectly polished posts on their feeds. They want to connect with real people, with relatable stories, and genuine experiences,” said Kenneth Soh, Head of Marketing at Shopee Malaysia, during the launch of the study today.

Sharing on the importance of authenticity and personalisation, Shopee Affiliate Livestreamer Celeste Phuah believes that developing original content is important when building sincere relationships with their audiences. “As an affiliate livestreamer, I believe it is important to be honest and open with my audience during my product recommendation live sessions. I will share my opinions on the products they are interested in based on my own experiences. When I get questions from the audience, I do try my best to inform them on the various benefits and features about the products,” Celeste said.


Building Communities Through Two-Way Engagement

A resounding 94% of Shopee Affiliates anticipate a surge in user engagement through the power of authentic content and interactive livestreams. This data unveils a crucial shift in audience behaviour, highlighting the growing demand for genuine connections between Shopee buyers and sellers, with affiliates taking on the mantle to digitally bridge this gap.

Andrew Tay in his capacity as the Chief Operating Officer for Val Media, a digital portal that produces influential content, explained that his team is enthusiastic to see more engagements and interactions from their audiences this year. “In the last few years, we have been branching out from just doing product review articles, to creative informative videos and social media postings. It is inspiring to see the different ways Malaysians consume digital content and we look forward to creating more content that drives user engagement and traffic for our local sellers.”


Championing Local Businesses in a Digital World

When Shopee asked the surveyed affiliates on what they want to achieve this year, an outstanding 100% aspire to drive more traffic to local sellers in 2024. Additionally, 96% of them want to collaborate with more local sellers that are aligned with their values, reflecting their #ShopeeSapotLokal spirit in supporting Made-in-Malaysia products to fuel the nation’s vibrant digital economies.

“I enjoy working with local brands and sellers as I believe it is important to support our homegrown entrepreneurs. It lights up my heart when I drive traffic and awareness for a local seller selling hand-made or traditional products to my audiences. I can’t wait to collaborate with these sellers in 2024 to create family-friendly content that is aligned with my Muslim culture and values,” said Rita Zafran, Shopee Affiliate (Top Posting Creator).

Shopee Affiliates collectively believe that the age-old phrase ‘Honesty is the best policy’ rings true when adding a human touch to their product insights and brand recommendations. They want to build sincere and genuine connections with their audiences, and aim to partner more with local brands and sellers aligned with their social and cultural values.

The “Championing Inclusive Commerce 2024” study is part of Shopee’s thought leadership series. These data-driven insights showcase how Shopee Affiliates have the unique opportunity to build win-win relationships that drive customer loyalty for local brands and sellers. Further insights on Malaysian affiliates will be shared in greater detail in the coming week.


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Auspicious Lunar New Year Celebration at The Emperor Chinese Restaurant, Dorsett Grand Subang

The Emperor Chinese Restaurant at Dorsett Grand Subang is all set to usher in the Year of the Dragon. Even though the Lunar New Year officially kicks in on 10th February 2024, the spirit of *Gong Xi Fa Cai* is already making its mark.

From 15th December 2023 until the 15th day of the new Lunar New Year, the culinary maestros at The Emperor led by Executive Chinese Chef Lee have curated three specialty menus, each one featuring time-honoured dishes that promise to tantalise tastebuds and elevate one’s dining experience.

 

Blossom of Good Fortune set menu priced at RM1688 nett per table of 10 persons offer an abundance of joyous indulgence; from Double boiled chicken soup with red dates, chestnut, mushrooms and bamboo piths to promote one’s good health, succulent Wok-fried prawns with premium soy sauce symbolic of laughter all year through to bountiful wealth represented by the traditional dish of Braised dried oyster, black moss, mushroom and taukan with kailan; and many more wonderful palate pleasers.

Priced at RM1988 nett per table of 10 persons, the Spring Time Celebration Menu is a 9-course grand feast in itself. The entire menu offers nothing sort of pure indulgence with course-after-course of lavish dishes; Braised seafood soup with generous amount of dried scallops and crabmeat, Home-style steamed organic chicken, Steamed red snapper, luscious Wok-fried tiger prawns and Supreme braised dried oyster with irresistible endings to mark the beginning of a sweet year in the form of Deep fried crispy nian gao with peanut mochi complemented with Double boiled red dates, longan and lotus seed with snow fungus.

The crème de la crème of the 3 menus is the Joyful Dragon Feast Menu priced at RM2288 nett per table of 10 persons.

Since it’s the Year of The Dragon, this menu is the ultimate choice for all. Featuring nothing but the best and finest premium ingredients, each dish featured on this menu is a testament to the rich tapestry of Chinese cuisine. Start off the feast with a rich and flavourful Braised dried seafood with crabmeat soup, move into a duet with the Roasted crispy duck and steamed chicken with ginger paste; dive into an abundance of blessings by indulging in the Steamed dragon grouper with superior soya and of course, for happiness and laughter the whole year through, what better dish to have than the symbolic Wok-fried tiger prawn with marmite sauce. This menu does not stop here of course; there are still loads to explore. So be sure, to make your reservations early and symbolically dive into prosperity, be blessed with good health and never missed a moment of happiness with your loved ones or with business associates.

For those with a small family or wanting other dine-in or takeaway options, The Emperor also feature a special Lunar New Year ala carte menu with choices of Double boiled chicken soup, Braised seafood with dried oysters and black moss in claypot, Deep fried white prawns with salted egg and crispy oats, Steamed red snapper, Stir fried prawn meat Szechuan style, choice of veggies and more.

One must not miss out on the annual lou hei, lou sang event. A traditional must-have, Yee Sang or Raw Fish Salad, a celebratory dish symbolising good fortune, good luck and prosperity for the coming year is part and parcel of the 3 set menus. The yee sang is also available ala carte for in-dining and takeaway. On the menu are delectable options such as sliced abalone with crystal pear at RM238 (1/2 portion) and RM328 for a full portion; salmon with crystal pear (RM98 and RM188); crispy whitebait with crispy salmon skin (RM98 and RM188) and for vegetarian, there’s the mixed fruits at RM78 for ½ portion and RM138 for a full portion; and mixed vegetarian (RM78 and RM138). Takeaway may be ordered online: https://dorsettbooking.com/malaysia


The Gong Xi Fa Cai celebration at The Emperor Chinese Restaurant of Dorsett Grand Subang is not merely a culinary experience; it is a journey into the heart of tradition, a fusion of flavours and festivity that transcends time, leaving one with memories as rich and enduring as the traditions they have embraced.

For advance reservation, call +603 5031 6060 extn 1912 or email: bookfnb.subang@dorsetthotels.com


Auspicious Lion Dance

The lion dance is a traditional Chinese performance art that holds significant cultural importance, especially during the Chinese New Year celebration. This dynamic and vibrant dance is believed to bring good luck, fortune, and ward off evil spirits for the upcoming year. Be sure to join them on the 12th day of the Lunar New Year to take in the sights and vibrancy of the lion dance.
21st February 24 at 12 noon @ Lobby, Dorsett Grand Subang.

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Usher in the Year of the Dragon at Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, City Centre

As the brand new year chimes in, the Chinese New Year festivities come hot on the heels of it. Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, City Centre celebrates its first Year of the Dragon with a great array of set menus, buffet spreads and a la carte selections to usher in the familial sense of community. Welcoming the noble and auspicious season, the hotel highlights flavourful feasts that will feature the uniqueness of its restaurants, Sichuan Kitchen and The Mesh. 

SICHUAN KITCHEN 

Experience a reunion feast that is truly Sichuan. With its vibrant and ageless interior that sets the tone for an easygoing yet stylish dining scene, Sichuan Kitchen introduces authentic flavours this Chinese New Year, curated with bold touches of its Sichuan native chef. The restaurant boasts a variety of cosy seating with five private dining rooms ideal for intimate to grand gatherings. Whether it’s the cult-favourite ‘hot pot’ set from MYR 158 nett, or the traditional set from MYR 168 nett, shared moments are promised all the same during the festivities. Additionally, a la carte selections are available for Salmon Yee Sang from MYR 118 nett, and Poon Choi Treasure Pot at MYR 888 nett with two savoury styles to choose from. 

Chinese New Year Dine-In Set 

Availability : January 19 – February 24, 2024 

Seating : 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM | 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM 

Price & Menu : Click Here 

THE MESH 

Compelled to keep the homely concept of prosperous reunions, The Mesh presents an abundant spread of classic and contemporary flavours for the festivities. The joy of dining with loved ones is channeled through its fresh setting of communal spaces and two private areas, all while being surrounded by the element that brings people together—food. This Chinese New Year, a variety of mouthwatering selections with a locally-inspired take await food enthusiasts from MYR 168 nett. Imagine fresh Seafood Bucket, Chilli Crab, Roasted Five-Spiced Duck to name a few, ready to gear up the appetite for a reunion feast to remember. 

Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner Buffet 

Availability : February 9 – 11, 2024 

Seating : 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM 

Price & Menu : Click Here 

‘Down Memory Lane’ High Tea Buffet – Chinese New Year Version 

Availability : February 10, 17 & 24, 2024 

Seating : 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM 

Price & Menu : Click Here 

Chap Goh Mei Dinner Buffet 

Availability : February 24, 2024 

Seating : 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM 

Price & Menu : Click Here 

From now until January 31, 2024, enjoy 20% early bird discount for any Chinese New Year offerings, or 10% discount from February 1 – 8, 2024. For reservations and enquiries, visit the Sichuan Kitchen website or The Mesh website.

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Cotta KL, Verve Shops, Mont Kiara

Located in Verve Shops, Mont Kiara, Cotta is a hidden gem specialising in homemade fresh ricotta cheese as well as other homemade goodies such as Greek yogurt, chicken liver pate, mushroom pate, etc. This rooftop cafe is spacious yet cosy, and the service here is warm and friendly. When we visited, they had their Christmas decor up which definitely added a lovely festive vibe to the place. 

Ricotta is made in-house daily, using local pasteurised cow's milk and locally grown lemons from Perlis. Soft and creamy, the fresh ricotta takes centrestage on many of the dishes here you see at Cotta, including the gourmet open-faced sandwiches, salads, pasta and more. 

The bestselling item here is the Chuck Mooris (RM28); Australian beef chuck is slowly cooked for 6 hours, twice smoked, then pulled and mixed in with some homemade chimichurri before being layered onto crisp sourdough bread, spread with their luscious ricotta along with a sous vide egg and cili padi for a touch of spice. 

For vegetarians, the Tuscany (RM27) is highly recommended - although I'm a meat lover, I loved this! It's a mix of caper-infused sundried tomatoes with local cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and basil, seasoned with Sarawak black pepper and a balsamic reduction. All that topped on sourdough bread and fresh ricotta and crowned with a beautifully runny egg. 

From their specials, we tried The Prawn Special (RM46); plump, juicy local Sabah prawns are poached in homemade tomalley broth and I think torched before serving cos there is a nice smokiness to it. The dish is finished with a generous dollop of ebiko and nori powder. Limited to 10 servings a day.

And then there's the pasta. Go for the Mushroom ricotta pasta (RM29) for more ricotta goodness. Personally, this was my favourite dish of the afternoon as the combination of the ricotta, sous vide egg and mushrooms was just magical. 

For desserts, there is a variety of homemade cakes (sourced from the neighborhood) to choose from. We had the Lemon curd cake (RM18) and Chocolate & peanut butter cake (RM19) along with a cup of cappuccino (RM12). 

Sorry KJ lemonade (RM15) - nice, refreshing, with a strong lemony scent.

Cotta KL - Definitely a restaurant / cafe worth checking out in 2024! 

Check out their website for their full menu.

Check out our IG reels here:

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Opening hours: 8am to 6pm daily.

Location: Cotta KL, Level 6, Rooftop, L6-1A Verve Shops Mont Kiara​50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Parking RM1.20 for 1st hour, RM1.40 for 2nd hour)

Tel: 011-2321 2125

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Shopee’s E-Commerce Leadership Fuels Unprecedented Economic Inclusion

Shopee’s E-Commerce Leadership Fuels Unprecedented Economic Inclusion

Marketplace Integrates 1.5 Million New Malaysian Talents

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan, today revealed demonstrated proof of Malaysia’s radically inclusive digital economy by concluding 2023 with over 1 million Malaysians registered to stream on Shopee Live and over 450,000 new homegrown sellers, influencers, and affiliates incorporated into its marketplace ecosystem nationwide*. Inclusive by design, Shopee’s trifecta of collaborative government partnerships, free Shopee University upskilling programs, and seamless marketplace technology drove home the power of authenticity and hyper-localisation at scale in achieving real social equity. The impact on economic empowerment is clear: this year alone, 80 thousand sellers boosted earnings by 25% year on year, while affiliate orders grew 420% and livestream orders grew 500% respectively.

“While our DNA is digital, and we bring the conveniences of virtual commerce, every one of our local sellers, influencers, and affiliates are real people building real communities on the ground. Not only are we direct to the community, but we are also highly passionate when it comes to using technology to help the underserved. Malaysians who shop from us have direct relationships with our sellers on Seller Chat, Shopee Live, and greet SPX couriers at the door. Malaysian brands and sellers align with our platform because our Shopee Guarantee, Shopee Mall, and 360 Marketing Solutions enable them to showcase how their values align with the values of our customers and are a force for social good,” explained Kenneth Soh, Head of Marketing at Shopee Malaysia.

Shopee Live Opens Up New Channel Opportunities at Scale

In 2023, Malaysians engaged with local influencer hosts 3.5 billion times on Shopee Live and the platform recorded 1 million local streamers registered since its inception in 2019. By investing in high quality studio production and KOL livestream services, increasing livestream touchpoints across the user journey, and offering in-stream tools to optimize livestreams for conversions, Shopee Live has become a key channel for discovery of locally made products.

• Over the last 12 months, livestream orders surged by an impressive 500% compared to the previous year.
• The adoption of Shopee Live by new local sellers saw a remarkable ten-fold increase in sales and a sixteen-fold surge in orders compared to the previous year
• Over 89,000 new affiliates onboarded to drive traffic to local sellers on Shopee Live.
• For sellers who realised over 500 thousand Ringgit in sales this year, livestream orders represented up to 40% of total platform orders.

#ShopeeSapotLokal Partners Government in Building Communities

Shopee’s leading role in partnering with the Malaysian government to ensure that local businesses can scale and succeed with e-commerce can be summed up with #ShopeeSapotLokal initiatives:

• Over 60,000 SME sellers are benefiting from Shopee strategic collaborations with ministries and government agencies, including the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the Ministry of Rural Development, and the Ministry of Trade and Cost of Living.
• Since its launch in June 2021, Pupuk@Shopee Campaigns in collaboration with MCMC’s PEDi’s Centers throughout Malaysia have driven over RM55 million in sales for 29,000 local sellers and boosted their average daily earnings year-on-year by 22%.
• Shopee recently teamed up with the Ministry of Communications and Digital (KKD) in November 2023 to aid 500 National OKU sellers through The OKU Celik Digital Program, pushcarts to assist OKU entrepreneurs and inviting Shopee OKU seller Kelly Chan to provide firsthand experience and tips for navigating the digital marketplace.
• Shopee actively champions Malaysia's small businesses, fostering a digital-first ecosystem for MSMEs in alignment with the government's vision to empower local businesses. Shopee has fully implemented the sales tax on imported low-value goods, serving as a catalyst for domestic MSME growth, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening the local business landscape through proactive collaboration and alignment with regulatory measures.

Shopee University Teaches High-Value, In-Demand Skills For Free

As one of the largest free digital literacy resources in the country, Shopee University has become a powerhouse for local entrepreneurs, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the competitive mobile marketplace.

• 120,000+ attendees in daily classes, 600+ trained through offline bootcamps, and over 650 reached through community engagement events.
• 39,000 members of ShopeeUni Malaysia Facebook Group, fostering a supportive community of local sellers.
• ShopeeUni's Customized Offline Workshops tailored for OKU sellers: Kelly Chan, who suffered from Child Syndrome, tried making a living through a brick and mortar gift shop after she was amputated at 14. A severe skin condition later proved debilitating, as she needed the flexibility to manage her health but many other growth platforms presented cash flow struggles and high debt risk. She solved her woes by being the most diligent attendee of Shopee Uni webinars and using the knowledge and tools to build a sustainable online business with Shopee.

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Welcome The Lunar New Year at Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown

DANCING WITH THE DRAGON

WELCOME THE LUNAR NEW YEAR AT FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON KUALA LUMPUR, CHINATOWN

As the Lunar New Year approaches, Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown beckons with a vibrant and indulgent celebration, "Dancing with the Dragon." Embrace the festive spirit with an array of enticing promotions and delectable offerings that honor tradition and prosperity. Head over to Chinatown to experience the festive offerings together with your loved ones from Jan 27 to Feb 14, 2024.

Golden Prosperity Yee Sang & Bountiful Blessings Buffet Quan's Kitchen

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of tradition with the Golden Prosperity Yee Sang. This symbolic dish, brimming with auspicious ingredients including carrot, turnip, pomelo, pickled cucumber, and more, is a harmonious blend of flavors that promise good fortune and abundance. Prices start at RM118+ for a half portion and RM188 for a full portion, with the option to enhance it further with add-ons such as chicken bakkwa and crispy soft shell crab.

Delight in the Bountiful Blessings Buffet at RM158+ per person, a lavish spread of culinary treasures served during the Harmony Reunion Dinner from Monday to Saturday, and the Sunday Abundance Lunch. Don't miss the CNY Harvest of Happiness Celebration Lunch on the Feb 10 and Feb 11, a delightful culmination of festive feasting.


Tales of the Wooden Dragon at Jann

Step into Jann and indulge in the Tales of the Wooden Dragon, a collection of meticulously crafted cocktails. Sip on the Prosperity cocktail, a fusion of Chivas 12 Years, mandarin orange, chocolate, and ginger ale, or opt for the Auspicious blend, featuring bakkwa, longan, and more. The Fortune cocktail, with its infusion of kumquat and chrysanthemum, promises an auspicious start to the year. Enjoy these Chinatown-inspired drinks at RM38+ per cocktail or RM100+ for a trio of flavors.

Red Lantern Radiance Afternoon Tea at Lady Yi's Tea House

For a refined celebration, experience the Red Lantern Radiance Afternoon Tea at Lady Yi's Tea House. Priced at RM168+ for two persons, immerse yourself in a symphony of delicate teas and exquisite bites, curated to envelop you in the warmth and elegance of the season.

For further details or reservations, please WhatsApp 012-507-3327 or email dining@fourpoints.com.

Enjoy a 10% discount by ordering online at www.idem.events/v/four-points-by-sheraton-kuala-lumpur-chinatown using the promo code "DRAGON10." Selected bank credit card holders are entitled to a 20% discount, with terms and conditions applying. 

Explore the e-Brochure at https://bit.ly/CNYFPChinatown2023for a glimpse of the opulent celebration that awaits.

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