Latest news with #Matta
New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Matta: Cerating's sudden name change likely to affect tourist arrivals
KUANTAN: The sudden decision to rename Cherating — a popular tourist destination known for its beaches — to Cerating, just months ahead of the highly anticipated Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026, is expected to negatively affect foreign tourist arrivals. Travel and tour operators, who have been actively marketing Cherating as a distinctive holiday destination in the lead-up to VMY, were caught off guard by the announcement from the Kuantan City Council less than a week ago. Pahang's Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Chapter chairman Chea Sin Cheak said several tourism operators have voiced concerns about the abrupt name change. "Industry players are worried that this change in spelling will significantly affect tourist arrivals. The name Cherating has long been recognised, and renaming it could hinder online searches for the destination. "Many tourists, especially from China, are familiar with the spelling Cherating. The timing of this change is particularly unsuitable, as we are just months away from VMY could disrupt ongoing promotional and marketing activities related to the destination," he told the New Straits Times today. Chea said that the tourism industry has consistently used the name Cherating across advertisements, promotional materials, and social media platforms, especially during travel fairs and that the sudden change feels unjust. He said the Matta Pahang chapter will convene a meeting to gather feedback from industry stakeholders before initiating further discussions with Tourism Pahang and Pahang Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man. "We are meeting with Matta members to determine the best approach. We are in talks with stakeholders, as this name change has become an issue," he said. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from a travel and tour company said that no official directive has been issued, prompting many operators to continue using Cherating in their travel packages. "Everyone was left in the dark until the local authorities announced on social media. Will the name change even take effect next year?" she asked. Typing the words "Cerating" in the Google search engine produces no relevant results, while "Cherating" remains the more popular and widely recognised search term. The rebranding move sparked backlash on social media last week, with many users criticising the decision as unpopular and unnecessary. When contacted, Pahang Local Government, Housing, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman Datuk Mohammad Fakhruddin Mohd Ariff said in a brief text message that he would ask the Kuantan City Council to clarify the name change.
USA Today
11-06-2025
- USA Today
Is a pricey AI fridge worth it? One woman's rant about hers is going viral.
Is a pricey AI fridge worth it? One woman's rant about hers is going viral. Show Caption Hide Caption Woman's AI fridge rant goes viral, claims isn't intelligent after all A woman claims her Samsung refrigerator with AI technology isn't so intelligent after all. Last year when April Matta was looking for a new refrigerator, a line of appliances that boasted innovative features using artificial intelligence caught her eye. The mother of three thought the Samsung Bespoke Kitchen appliances could help her family stay better organized with functions like a digital calendar and grocery tracking, she told USA TODAY. But now that she owns the Bespoke fridge, Matta said the technology hasn't been exactly what she expected — and her experience is going viral on TikTok. "I wasted my money so you don't have to," she says in the clip. On the other hand, Samsung stands by the product, saying that with proper use and care, the features are effective. Home tips: Is there a 'right' way to load the dishwasher? What the fight teaches us Smart fridge confuses husband's head for an avocado Matta shared her experience to TikTok, where her video of the fridge has been viewed over 200,000 times as of June 10. In the video, she said the fridge's main AI feature, which is intended to track grocery items as they are placed inside, hasn't worked as she had hoped — for example, thinking her husband's head is an avocado and a bottle of ketchup is meat. She also said in the video that she hasn't been satisfied with the freezer's ice tray — she says it lacks a sensor to stop making ice — and the outside of the fridge has showed fingerprints and smudging. However, there are a few features Matta likes, including the fridge door's automatic opening function and its connection to her doorbell camera. Matta told USA TODAY that she decided to share the video to debunk the "fancy bells and whistles" that come with the appliance. "Even something as stupid as a fridge, it's not always all it's cracked up to be," she said. "The simple things in life are probably a little bit better." Samsung defends fridge, says AI software update is coming In an emailed statement to USA TODAY in response to Matta's video, Samsung said the grocery tracker, which is called AI Vision Inside, "uses an internal camera to recognize 33 fresh foods as they're placed in the refrigerator." "The owner's manual shares guidance on where to properly hold an item and the importance of waiting for a recognition beep, in order to best utilize this feature and make home cooking more seamless," the statement said in part. The statement said the company introduced the AI technology in 2024. A software update, which will be available later this year, will expands the recognition to 37 food items, according to the statement. Customers also have the choice to turn off the AI Vision Inside feature at any time, the statement said. As for some other features mentioned in Matta's video, Samsung said "customers always have the option to pause ice production using the fridge controls, or with the SmartThings app." The statement also noted that the fridge's stainless steel is fingerprint-resistant, but "can be easily cleaned using a clean, damp cloth." On Samsung's website, the fridge has an overall customer rating of 4.1/5. One customer said it was "the best purchase I have made in a long time." What is an AI refrigerator? How much does it cost? Samsung's Bespoke line, which includes kitchen and laundry appliances, are intended to simplify daily tasks using AI, according to the company's website. According to Samsung's website, the fridge retails for around $5,000 before any discounts are applied. Matta said she paid about $2,500 for hers. The refrigerator has a built in touchscreen called the "Family Hub," which encompasses a lot of the machine's technology. For example, it has access to apps like YouTube and Ring and can play movies or TV shows, according to Samsung. There is also a SmartThings app available to download on smartphone for remote access to the fridge. Other so-called smart fridges on the market include products from GE and LG that similarly offer WiFi or linked apps to control the appliances — each retail for around $4,000. Melina Khan is a national trending reporter for USA TODAY. She can be reached at
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tributes paid to 'much loved' shop owner Mr Matta
Tributes have been paid to a "much loved" shop owner whose international food store became one of Liverpool's best-known independent outlets. Kirpal Matta founded Matta's International Foods in 1968 in Granby Street. The shop moved to Bold Street in 1984, where it has been a fixture ever since. Posting on social media, the store shared the "very sad news" that Mr Matta had died aged 84. "We know this news will come as a shock to many, but we want to reassure all those who came to know Mr Matta that he was surrounded by love and family," the Facebook post said. "As much loved by his family as he was by our many wonderful customers over the years, we know many of you will want to share those memories, which is why we were keen to share this post, however sad it may be," the post said. Shop regular Ervine Okuboh responded by describing Mr Matta as "a great man". "I remember as a young child shopping at his shop in Granby St with my parents, as long ago as the mid-late 1960s. "Always smiling and always made you feel very welcome. "Mr Matta always asked after my family and his children were just as pleasant and welcoming. What a wonderful man. Industrious, kind and caring." Another customer, Dave Hogan, said: "Throughout my many visits to the shop... I always came away with the sense that the shop represented the very epitome of 'family'." Nina Edge said: "Mr Matta is so loved. His contribution to Liverpool is immense." In July 2024, when the store celebrated 40 years on Bold Street, Mr Matta spoke to BBC Radio Merseyside presenter Kev Duala. He described how he had been "honoured" to have spent nearly 60 years serving the local community. "This place is still here because of the people," he explained. Mr Matta's sons, who now run the business, described how their parents had also created a "sense of community" within the shop. "We have learned from my father and mother and they just treat everyone with kindness and friendship and love," said Dalip Matta. "It's about caring and sharing - it's not just about profits." The family said information about Mr Matta's funeral and ceremony at Liverpool's Sikh temple is expected to be shared in coming days "should any of our friends and customers wish to attend". Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230. Matta's International Foods
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Mr Matta has died
Tributes from across Liverpool and beyond have poured in following the death of a 'real gentleman' who set up a pioneering international food store went on to become a city institution. Over the weekend, an announcement on social media shared the very sad news that Kirpal Matta, who founded legendary shop Matta's with his wife Kanta 60 years ago, had died. In its message, the business said: "Some very sad news that we have to share. Earlier this week, Mr Kirpal Matta passed away. We know this news will come as a shock to many, but we want to reassure all those who came to know Mr Matta that he was surrounded by love and family." READ MORE: Tesco Express closed as police cordon off store READ MORE: Schoolboy, 14, stabbed to death named as murder probe launched Matta's international food store was first set up by Kirpal and Kanta all the way back in 1965 in Toxteth's Granby Street. The couple became famed around the city for their delicious samosas, which are still adored by customers today. Following the Toxteth riots, the family moved the shop to its current home on Bold Street. Last year Matta's celebrated 40 years of delighting its customers with tastes from around the world in this bustling city centre location. Kanta sadly died in 2020, aged 76, following a battle with dementia. Announcing the passing of Kirpal this weekend, the store - now run by the couple's sons Dalip and Deepak - added: "From Granby Street to Bold Street, Mr. and Mrs. Matta came to be known as the original faces of our little shop community. "As much loved by his family as he was by our many wonderful customers over the years, we know many of you will want to share those memories, which is why we were keen to share this post, however sad it may be." The popularity of Kirpal and his store are clear to see for anyone looking at the hundreds of comments that have been posted below the tribute. Many use the same word to describe him - a gentleman. John Smith said: "Very sad news, a real gentleman and a part of Liverpool history. RIP." Samantha Minett added: "We are so sorry for your loss and thinking about you all at this very sad time. Mr Matta was such a beautiful soul and will be so very sadly missed." Carol Fitzpatrick said: "It has been a privilege and an honour to know Mr Matta. With love from our family to yours." Cathy Carey said: "A true legend and gentleman. Sending my condolences to all the Matta family. May he rest in peace." Marie Burns simply added: "He was a great character, always fond memories." In its tribute post to Kirpal, Matta's said the messages of condolence and memories will be shared with the family. It added that the family will be sharing information on the funeral arrangements should friends and customers wish to attend. Information will also be shared about the upcoming ceremony in Liverpool's Sikh temple to commemorate Mr Matta.
Indianapolis Star
09-06-2025
- Sport
- Indianapolis Star
Hard reset on Butler basketball roster begs question: Can Thad Matta's roster structure work?
INDIANAPOLIS — Is there a correct way to build a team in today's Big East? Butler is hoping a complete reset — in roster and culture — is the answer to returning the program back to its former glory. The addition of former Guerin Catholic forward Bryson Cardinal means the 2025-26 Butler basketball roster is full, and the Bulldogs can move from player acquisition mode to preparing for the upcoming season. Butler will head into the season with 10 new players; five freshmen and five players added in the transfer portal. Adding 10 new players seems like a lot, and maybe it would've been five years ago, but that number isn't even the highest total of coach Thad Matta's second stint back at his alma mater. Ahead of the 2023-24 season, Matta's second season back at Butler, the Bulldogs add 11 new players to the roster: three freshmen, six transfers and two walk-ons, highlighting Matta's delayed approach to rebuilding his roster. Usually, a coach's first season is when a program experiences its biggest makeover. Instead, Matta added just five new players, relying on several of former coach LaVall Jordan's recruits to lead the team in his first season back on the sidelines. The results were an underwhelming 14-18 campaign, leading to the mass exodus that brought 11 new players aboard the following season. Of the 11 players brought in, three left after their first seasons (Posh Alexander, D.J. Davis and walk-on Artemios Gavalas). Juniors Finley Bizjack and Ethan McComb are the only players left from Matta's initial roster makeover. If they stay for two more years, five of the 11 players will have naturally matriculated out of the program. Is Matta happy with a 45% retention rate? Probably not. Is that the best you can expect in today's age of college basketball? The longtime coach hopes that is not the case. "When you talk retention, that was one of the biggest things: We wanted to retain that team," Matta told IndyStar. "We knew D.J. (Davis) was going to leave, Posh (Alexander) was the one who got us at the end. We hoped we could've retained that class, that would've been big for us. Every situation, every school is going to be different in their ability to (retain)." With the constant offseason movement via the transfer portal, roster retention may be a thing of the past. Xavier first-year coach Richard Pitino has undergone the biggest roster makeover in the Big East with 11 new players, just one is a freshman. First-year Villanova coach Kevin Willard is bringing in 10 new players (seven transfers, three freshmen). UConn is bringing in seven new players (three via transfer portal, plus Indiana Mr. Basketball Braylon Mullins). So, what's the key to retaining players? The answer appears to be developing a program where players put the team before themselves. He said it: What Thad Matta said about Butler's additions via transfer portal, recruiting Bizjak and McComb, the longest tenured Bulldogs on the roster, speak about returning to "The Butler Way," holding each other accountable and rebuilding a winning culture. It takes time to build a solid foundation and with summer workouts beginning Monday, the Dawgs are hoping to establish a new standard. "We made a list of things that we want to enforce every day, that way we can really accomplish what we set out to accomplish and that's win a Big East championship and make it back to the (NCAA) tournament," McComb said. "There's a lot of little, tiny details that we believe we add to creating a culture that we may have lost over the last couple years as a program. We have the right pieces in place and the right guys here. We're all on the same agenda — team over self — to get that done. I think it's going to go a long way for us because we can already see those improvements, even after Day 1." Marquette coach Shaka Smart has built a culture of winning where freshmen are willing to sacrifice for the greater good of the program. Under Matta, Butler has not. Relying on freshmen is extremely risky. Butler has already been burned once, with Colt Langdon coming in, redshirting and leaving before ever playing a game. Finding freshmen willing to wait patiently for their time to play is likely another relic from the past. Cardinal's willingness to redshirt makes him one of the rare exceptions. McComb stayed for two years as a walk-on before getting rewarded with a scholarship. Can Butler find playing time for its four other highly rated freshmen? Are Butler's freshmen the type of players content with not receiving steady rotation minutes early in the season? As blasphemous as it sounds, Butler has to find a way to be more like Marquette and it starts on the recruiting trail. "To me fit is still vitally important," Matta said. "How I do things at Butler, how Butler University operates is still very, very important. We're trying to find guys who have an edge, we want to work, who love the game of basketball. Then we've got to do the best we can do to make them better." Tracking the player movement in the Big East can make your head spin, but there are three plans of action taking place. Marquette is the only school taking an old-school approach of bringing in freshmen and developing them over the course of their careers. The Golden Eagles did not add a single player through the transfer portal this offseason. Others are trying to rebuild rapidly by bringing in experienced transfers. Other schools, like Butler, are taking the hardest route, trying to thread the needle by bringing in experienced players and freshmen simultaneously and letting the rotation work itself over the course of the season. Of the schools also bringing in a significant number of freshmen, none make for a good comparison with Butler. UConn recruits from a different pool than Butler. Its freshmen like five-stars Mullins and Liam McNeeley before him, are expected to come in and be immediate impact players.
