{
  "id": 10316065,
  "title": "#SHOWBIZ: ASC 2026: 34 global influencers to battle in KL this Oct 17",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/28/showbiz-asc-2026-34-global-influencers-to-battle-in-kl-this-oct-17",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-28T00:01:15.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2026/09/1542561/showbiz-asc-2026-34-global-influencers-battle-kl-oct-17"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KUALA LUMPUR: The All Star Championship (ASC) 2026 will take place on Oct 17 at the Flamingo Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, gathering 34 global influencers from nine countries in a unique blend of sports, entertainment, and tourism. The participants hail from Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Japan, Nigeria, and Morocco, with a collective prize pool of RM200,000.\n\nThis event builds upon the success of the ASC's debut in Malaysia last year and its April edition in Dubai. ASC Chief Executive Officer Datuk Abd Rahman Soltan stated that the tournament aims to boost Malaysia's international image, especially in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. However, the competition is about more than just who emerges victorious. ASC seeks to create a platform that combines sports, digital media, entertainment, and tourism seamlessly.\n\nBy bringing together influencers from various countries, they are not only competing but also introducing their audiences to Malaysia. These influencers will showcase local food, culture, lifestyle, and destinations to millions of global followers through live broadcasts. Despite the digital emphasis, Abd Rahman stressed that athletic dedication remains crucial. Once they enter the ring, they are no longer just influencers; they must adopt the discipline, commitment, and courage of athletes.\n\nThe Malaysian lineup includes local creators such as Amir Harris, Jai JMT, Mikha, Fareez, and Ikmal Dany. International competitors consist of Chima, Kumala, and Ayu Aulia from Indonesia; Gulfishan from India; Abrar from Pakistan; Altina from the Philippines; Filip from Vietnam; Takaharu from Japan; and KRU and Hicham from Morocco. Abd Rahman emphasized that the event's purpose extends beyond simply crowning a champion. He believes the ASC can leave a lasting impact by blending fierce competition, digital storytelling, and tourism, ultimately leaving a piece of Malaysia with each participant to share with their millions of followers.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: The All Star Championship (ASC) 2026 is returning on Oct 17 at the Flamingo Hotel here, uniting 34 social media influencers from nine countries in a showcase blending sports, entertainment, and tourism.",
  "key_points": [
    "ASC 2026 to be held Oct 17 at Flamingo Hotel, Kuala Lumpur",
    "34 global influencers from nine countries participate",
    "Prize pool RM200,000; aims to boost Malaysia's international image"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The All Star Championship 2026 cements Malaysia's position as a hub for sports, entertainment, and tourism, while boosting its international image and promoting local culture to a global audience.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}