Author: Chad Merchant
Chad Merchant
As TEG Media’s Group Editor, Chad manages the editorial team and has been heading up the myriad publications and platforms of the company since joining in February 2012. He also writes for the various magazines and websites. A lifelong writer and English language enthusiast, Chad's background is primarily in business management, though he majored in education at Auburn University, and held jobs with editorial responsibility in his home country of the United States. Chad's interests extend to photography, travel, and a passion for good food and wine, along with a love of whisky, which has led to him serving as the Event Director for TEG Media’s popular WhiskyPLUS event, held annually since 2018.
Malaysia’s comparatively open stance towards foreign residents is paying off, with expats, international students, and MM2H visa holders together contributing more than RM84 billion a year — even as policies on the ground sometimes make them feel less than welcome. Foreign residents are proving to be a major driver of Malaysia’s growth, contributing more than RM84.2 billion annually to the economy, according to property technology group Juwai IQI. At a time when other countries are closing their doors, Malaysia’s comparative openness is bringing clear returns. Property enquiries from overseas buyers have risen by 52.5% in 2025, while expatriate arrivals are…
In perhaps the finest fiscal spin seen in years, the long-announced High Value Goods Tax has been quietly axed, only for its principles to appear immediately under SST reform. The government has quietly shelved the proposed High Value Goods Tax (HVGT) that was supposed to roll out by May 2024. But don’t let that fool you – its core concept has been baked into the revamped sales tax system as higher rates for luxury and discretionary items. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan confirmed in Parliament that dedicated HVGT legislation is off the table. Instead, luxury products now face…
Australia’s world-first social media ban for children under 16 has now been expanded to include YouTube, following government concerns about harmful content and mounting political pressure. Australia’s federal government has announced that YouTube will now be included in the country’s upcoming social media ban for under-16s, marking a significant shift in policy ahead of the December rollout. The move comes after weeks of public debate and pressure from online safety advocates, including the eSafety Commissioner, who cited YouTube as the most commonly reported platform on which children aged 10 to 15 encountered harmful content. The inclusion of the platform, owned…
Two former reporters claim fugitive financier Jho Low – central to the 1MDB scandal – has been located living in Shanghai under an assumed name using a forged Australian passport. In a recent livestream titled Finding Jho Low, investigative journalists Bradley Hope and Tom Wright – co-authors of Billion Dollar Whale and among the first to expose the 1MDB scandal – claimed they have tracked down Jho Low’s whereabouts. According to the pair, Low is residing in Shanghai’s affluent Green Hills neighbourhood under the alias Constantinos Achilles Veis, travelling on a fraudulent Australian passport. The duo allege that Low continues to enjoy a…
From temple-topped hills in Thailand to modern cityscapes in Japan, the results of Travel + Leisure‘s latest World’s Best Awards survey show that Asia’s urban charms continue to captivate travellers worldwide. Asia remains a perennial favourite among Travel + Leisure readers, and this year’s results underscore just how richly diverse and rewarding the region’s cities are. From heritage-rich capitals and ancient kingdoms to cosmopolitan megacities, Asia has something for every type of traveller. Despite the long flights required for many, readers still find themselves drawn to the vibrant rhythms, friendly locals, and delicious street eats found throughout the continent. What seems clear from…
Malaysia’s planned move to scrap RON95 petrol subsidies may slash billions off the national deficit – yet the burden will fall hardest on hardworking vendors, commuter drivers, and long-haul workers. Meanwhile, the scapegoating of foreign residents is built on thin evidence, and simpler solutions could reduce the political fallout. For decades, Malaysians have been described – only half-jokingly – as being addicted to cheap petrol. At RM2.05 per litre for RON95 currently, heavily subsidized fuel has shaped everything in the country from commuting patterns to consumer expectations, reinforcing the notion that affordable petrol is almost a birthright, not a benefit.…
This Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, Crowne Plaza Kuala Lumpur City Centre is inviting guests to celebrate twice the joy with not one, but two festive buffet experiences across its signature dining venues. Whether you’re gathering the family for a lively, flavour-packed feast or seeking a more refined gourmet indulgence, both offerings promise to deliver a memorable Easter filled with exceptional food and fun for all ages. The beautiful (and still quite new) hotel is a wonderful destination for your family Easter dining plans. Easter Bountiful Hi-Tea at Merchants At Merchants, the hotel’s vibrant all-day dining restaurant on level 13, guests can…
With AirAsia exiting Subang Airport, Batik Air steps up to expand its presence, boosting flight frequencies and introducing new routes as it backs the government’s vision to transform Subang into a leading regional hub. Batik Air is poised to strengthen its foothold at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, commonly known as Subang Airport, with plans to increase flight frequencies and introduce new routes in the coming months. In a statement, the airline expressed its support for the government’s initiative to transform Subang Airport into a premier regional aviation hub. “By enhancing connectivity and accessibility, we aim to contribute to the…
M Marini Grand Caffè & Terrazza – or just ‘the Caffè’ to its regulars – brings a touch of refined Italian dining to the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Located in One KL, just adjacent to Suria KLCC and Mandarin Oriental, this elegant café has built a reputation for its upscale yet wholly inviting atmosphere, with plush interiors, a vibrant al fresco dining space, and a menu that balances elegant dining with approachability. Whether stopping by for a breezy brunch, a refined afternoon tea, a leisurely drinks-and-dinner session, or – if you’re feeling indulgent – a glass of wine paired with caviar (!!!),…
Ascend Airways Malaysia is readying itself for takeoff, reportedly bringing a different start-up approach to the country’s aviation market. Malaysia’s aviation sector is set to welcome a new player as Ascend Airways Malaysia Sdn Bhd prepares for takeoff, with plans to operate two Boeing B737-800s and four B737 MAX 8s by the end of 2025. Unlike previous Malaysian start-ups that struggled against industry heavyweights Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia, Ascend Airways is taking a different approach. The airline will focus on providing Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) services for both passenger and cargo transport. The airline is backed by UK-based…