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ILLUMINAKING BY FAIZ FAISAL


Tuesday Tea: Behind K-Pop’s "Nonsense" Song Titles
Ever wonder why K-pop songs have "gibberish" titles like BLACKPINK’s "DDU-DU DDU-DU", LE SSERAFIM’s "BOOMPALA", or BABYMONSTER’s "CHOOM"? From SEO algorithm monopolization and flattening global language barriers to creating viral TikTok choreography cues, there is hyper-calculated marketing behind these phonetic hooks. Here is why K-pop's "nonsense" song title strategy works every single time.

Faiz Faisal
12 hours ago2 min read


WDWN: Wake Up! It's September!
Welcome to August’s WDWN (What's Done, What's Next)! This month was all about quiet progress: heading home to Rembau after a health scare with mom, enrolling in AKPK to wipe out debt for true financial freedom, and appreciating a peaceful, close-knit social circle. Career might be a bit blurry right now, but trusting the process is key. Here is the full recap of my August journey and what I’m tackling as we close out Q3 in September!

Faiz Faisal
1 day ago2 min read


Short Story: Reserved Table II
Lotus Table has become Kuala Lumpur's hottest restaurant, but junior chef Hafiz begins noticing something strange about its most loyal customers. When he discovers a hidden passage beneath the restaurant, he finds an impossible banquet hall filled with creatures who aren't human—and realizes the restaurant's success has always depended on something far more sinister than good food.

Faiz Faisal
2 days ago8 min read


Health & Beauty: Migraine
Dealing with a throbbing migraine? Before you spend the day suffering in the dark, try these natural, science-backed home remedies to soothe headache pain—from cold compresses and ginger tea to peppermint oil massages. Remember, while natural tricks can ease symptoms, always consult a doctor for severe, sudden, or recurring conditions! Here is how to manage your headache at home safely.

Faiz Faisal
3 days ago2 min read


Movie Review: Haunted Universities 4
Love Thai horror anthologies? Read our honest Haunted Universities 4 review! From limited Malaysia cinema showtimes to loud gore and regional urban legends, this 4th installment trades standard horror-comedy for surprising emotional beats and strong human connections. Check out our full segment rankings, breakdown of "D-Day Night" and "The Concubine Villa," and see why this campus nightmare earns a casual 7/10!

Faiz Faisal
4 days ago3 min read


Throwback Thursday: FnF Trips
After 20 years of friendship, my core group "FnF" (Fresh n Floral) has only managed to go on two trips together. Now, planning a getaway with married friends feels nearly impossible! From getting chased by stray dogs in Bangkok to accidentally walking into a men-only massage parlour, here is a throwback to our wild memories, the reality of adulting, and why being in the same space matters more than the destination.

Faiz Faisal
5 days ago3 min read
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