March 7-13, 2014
Cruel ambitions Laos’ dam ambitions pose a grave threat to the existence of rare Irrawaddy dolphins
Contents March 7-11, 2014
❖ Environment
❖ Weekly Briefing
❖ Politics
Cruel ambitions
Asia this week
Where has President Xi's time gone?
COVER IMAGE : AFP
Contents March 7-11, 2014
❖ Business
❖ City
❖ Technology
❖ Business
Untapped potential
Getting a move on
Imitating nature
Something’s brewing
Contents March 7-11, 2014
❖ Lifestyle
❖ Lifestyle
Datebook
Asian and beautiful
Indonesia’s 5 iconic bridges
Happenings around Asia
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WEEKLY BRIEFING
March 7-13, 2014
AFP
1,500 Indonesian islands will be wiped off the map by 2050, a climate change specialist from the Asian Development Bank said. The Indonesian archipelago has some 17,000 islands, with about 6,000 permanently inhabited.
US$76,000 a year
PEOPLE SCREAM OUTSIDE THE UNITED NATION’S INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE TO DEMAND IMMEDIATE POLITICAL ACTION ON CLIMATE DEBATE ON SEPT 27, 2013, IN STOCKHOLM.
China’s total trade in 2013 with exports reaching $2.21 trillion and imports of $1.95 trillion, the country’s Ministry of Commerce said. China replaced the United States to become the world's largest merchandise trader last year.
US$1.45 trillion— worth of annual economic losses globally that will be caused by global warming by the end of the 21st century, a final draft drawn up by a working group of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change said. Experts from 195 IPCC member countries will gather at the panel’s general meeting from March 25-29 in Yokohama, Japan. They are expected to discuss the final draft and approve it.
JONATHAN NACKSTRAND/AFP
The combined cost of renting residential and office space in Singapore for an employee—11 per cent more than it was five years ago, according to the World Cities Live-Work Index that ranked Singapore fifth among costliest cities to work and live in. In another study by the Economist Intelligence Unit, Singapore is now the most expensive city in the world due to the strong Singapore dollar and the high cost of cars, utilities and clothes.
US$4.16 trillion,
POLITICS
March 7-13, 2014
WHERE HAS PRESIDENT XI'S TIME GONE?
China Daily Beijing
T
ime flies. The song “Where Has Time Gone?” became a hit in China after the Spring Festival gala by China Central Television broadcast it to billions of viewers. The concept of vanishing time became even more popular in China after President Xi Jinping wondered where his time had gone during an interview with Russian media. Xi said he devoted most of his time to work when he travelled to Sochi for the opening ceremony of the 22nd Winter Olympic Games.
Since being elected general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in November 2012, Xi has made 12 trips throughout China, covering over one-third of the provincial regions, according to Beijing Youth Daily in a special titled, "Where has President Xi’s time gone". Xi also made five trips overseas, covering 39 days in 14 countries on five continents, since taking the helm as Chinese president in March 2013. During his first overseas visit
March 7-13, 2014
POLITICS
March 7-13, 2014
POLITICS
March 7-13, 2014
Visits outside China
POLITICS
March 7-13, 2014
POLITICS
POLITICS
March 7-13, 2014
as president, he attended 66 activities in nine days, meeting 32 foreign state leaders and dignitaries and delivering 20 speeches at different occasions. In his recent 43-hour visit to Sochi, Xi also took part in 12 events and activities. Among Xi's meetings, the most important are the annual meetings of the National People's Congress, the country's top legislature, and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top advisory body, which are held for two weeks in March. The most frequent meeting is of the Standing Committee of the CPC Political Bureau, the Party's top decision-making body, which Xi has attended 14 times. Xi also chaired the group study session of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee over various topics 12 times, including anti-corruption, reform, and “cultural soft power”.
Xi also attends meetings of other organisations such as the China Communist Youth League and All China Federation of Industry and Commerce. In addition, Xi holds meetings when there is an emergency, such as after the pipeline blast in Qingdao, Shandong province, last year.
And how does the president spend his rare moments of free time? Beijing Youth Daily said that besides reading books, Xi is a fan of sports. He loves swimming, climbing, football, volleyball, tennis and kung fu. ¬
BUSINESS
March 7-13, 2014
Untapped Potential Two biggest hindrances to Pakistan's seafood industry is overfishing and poor quality control
BUSINESS
March 7-13, 2014
QASIM A. MOINI Dawn Islamabad
W
ith a 1,000-kilometre coastline and plenty of lakes and rivers, Pakistan has the potential of being a major producer of seafood, which is not only capable of feeding a growing population at home but can also earn the country valuable foreign exchange and create jobs through the export sector. However, perhaps the two biggest impediments affecting the growth of the fisheries industry in the country are overfishing and poor quality control where handling and storage of the catch is concerned. In 2007, mat-
ters came to such a head that the European Union banned the import of Pakistani seafood within the bloc. After much effort, this ban was lifted in 2013. Yet if Pakistan is not careful, not only will it lock itself out of potential markets, it may find itself shut out of the markets it already has access to.
According to a recently released World Bank report, “Fish can satisfy the palates of the middle income group and meet the food security needs of the poorest”. Of course in Pakistan, even on middle-class dinner tables seafood is considered a novelty item. Yet if fish consumption is pro-
moted, it may help address our food security issues to some extent. As for the exports front, the potential is huge if we can get our priorities right. “Our primary markets are the Middle East and Far East; China is the single most important market. Saudi Arabia and
BUSINESS
March 7-13, 2014
Egypt are also important. We export shrimp as well as different sorts of fish, octopus, squid etc,” says Faisal Iftikhar, Chairman of the Pakistan Fisheries Export Association, who also heads the fisheries development board. Referring to factors obstructing growth of Pakistan's fisheries industry, Moazzam Khan, who works as a technical adviser on marine resources with the World Wide Fund for Nature-Pakistan, says: “In Pakistan, there is a major gap between production and exports. We are basically an exporter of raw material; fish are reprocessed abroad. Two factories were recently set up here offering value-added products. Val-
ue addition is key.” He adds that Pakistan's post-harvest losses are very high. "A lot of fish goes bad because of lack of proper storage facilities". Iftikhar says that problems with the supply chain include negligence in fish-farming and aqua-culture. "Also, we have no marine farming expertise. Regionally, other countries are way ahead. They have exploited their potential in fish farming. We need to work on supply-chain issues and increase our inland fisheries’ yield.” Khan adds that political and economic volatility in Pakistan is keeping potential foreign customers away. Iftikhar Zaidi, also
of the Pakistan Fisheries Export Association, points out that along with the need to control overfishing, greater investment can enable local producers to bring in significantly more business. “Overfishing and illegal fishing are our major problems. Illegal nets are used, which end up catching juvenile fish. It is a shame that we are importing US$40 million worth of fish annually. With the right investment, we can significantly improve export earnings. Exports are currently around $350 million; other states [in the region] are exporting seafood worth billions of dollars.” It appears that to make Pakistan a major
player in the international seafood market, the country will have to tackle a number of pressing issues. These include raising awareness amongst fishermen and producers about the need to maintain quality control and hygiene standards from the time the fish is caught till the time it is sold in the market or frozen for export, as well as using sustainable methods to ensure the country does not deplete its stocks. There is also a need to exploit the potential of Pakistan’s freshwater fisheries as well as promoting aquaculture. As Faisal Iftikhar points out, unless we concentrate on fish farming “our export potential will only remain on paper”. ¬
CITY
March 7-13, 2014
INDIA JAM RAVI SHANKARNARASIMHAN China Daily New Delhi
IN INDIA, TRUCKS ARE NOT ONLY FOR CARGO BUT ARE ALSO USED TO TRANSPORT PEOPLE.
PHOTOS BY DU LIANYI/CHINA DAILY
F
rom New Delhi to Mumbai, cars and pedestrians jostle for whatever space there is—and are joined in this melee by bicycles, tricycles, auto rickshaws, pedal rickshaws, trucks and vans of various sizes, buses and, not to forget, animals. Cows are sacred to Hindus, who form the majority of the population, but the traffic free-for-all includes horses, camels and elephants. And then there is the crowd crush in the vehicles. A motorcycle easily carries a couple, a couple of kids and a maid. In cars, the back and even the roof are for seating. In buses, passengers hang on to window grills, the exits and the ladder at the rear. To add to these incredible sights is the sound: the cacophony of nonstop honking. Yet, traffic moves on, albeit very, very slowly; the traffic police seem indulgent; and the travellers appear happy. This is no country for road rage. ¬
CITY
March 7-13, 2014
BUSES IN INDIA ARE OFTEN JAMMED WITH PASSENGERS, WHO HAVE TO BE VERY CAREFUL WHEN GETTING OFF AND ON AS BUSES NEVER WAIT FOR THEM.
CITY
March 7-13, 2014
TRAFFIC JAMS ARE COMMON IN INDIA'S CAPITAL CITY OF NEW DELHI AND LOCALS REMAIN INDIFFERENT.
CITY
March 7-13, 2014
TRICYCLES, WHETHER MOTOR-OR HUMAN-POWERED, ARE THE PRIMARY MEANS OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION.
CITY
March 7-13, 2014
TAXIS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE IN BIG CITIES, SUCH AS MUMBAI. THEY ARE MORE COMFORTABLE, BUT ONLY THE UPPER CLASS CAN AFFORD THEM.
March 7-13, 2014
TECHNOLOGY AFP
Imitating nature Biomimicry can lead to scientific discoveries, as well as new products
TECHNOLOGY
March 7-13, 2014
KOREAN SCIENTISTS MIMICKED THE ABDOMEN OF FIREFLIES TO IMPROVE LED EFFICIENCY.
PAUL KERRY The Korea Herald Seoul
THE FRONT OF THE SHINKANSEN WAS INSPIRED BY THE KINGFISHER'S BEAK.
E
xplanations of biomimicry often begin with the Shinkansen bullet train in Japan. The train was successfully rocketing along at record speeds. But there was a hitch: When they exited a tunnel,
they created a sonic boom because of air pressure differences. Engineers modelled the front of the train after the beak of a kingfisher, which moves rapidly and smoothly between air and water, massively reducing noise pollution.
This is the classic image of biomimicry—engineers and designers looking to nature for solutions. But the process can aid scientific discovery, too. When scientists at the Biophotonics Lab at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology mimicked the abdomen of a firefly to improve LED efficiency, they also confirmed something about the animal.
TECHNOLOGY
March 7-13, 2014
THE KINGFISHER'S BEAK MOVES RAPIDLY AND SMOOTHLY BETWEEN AIR AND WATER.
TECHNOLOGY
March 7-13, 2014
When light shines through a lens, some of it is lost to reflection. That would be bad news for a firefly, which expends a lot of energy creating the light. To overcome this, it appeared to have evolved an anti-reflective cuticle on its abdomen, but its function was not well known. The researchers copied nanoscale ridges on the cuticle to measure their effect on light transmission from an LED, and found it significantly improved efficiency. Not only that, when they altered the dimensions of the ridges, they found that those found in the firefly were optimised for firefly light, effectively confirming the function of the cuticle. So while the research
helped develop a more efficient LED, it also helped further our understanding of the biology of fireflies. Like this, biomimicry can lead to advances in science and our understanding of nature, as well as solve problems. One example of this is at an even smaller scale than the firefly lens: enzymes. Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions in nature, enabling it to carry out tasks that are very difficult or impossible for industry —such as photosynthesis. But it isn’t always clear how they work. Scientists such as professor Nam Won-woo, director of the Centre for Biomimetic Systems at Ewha Womans Univer-
sity, are trying to mimic the enzymes to study how they speed up reactions. “In biomimetic studies we try to understand how the enzymes workhow the enzymes activate dioxygen-by synthesising the active site of metalloenzymes,” said Nam. The reason enzymes themselves can’t always be used is that they are huge strings of amino acids containing thousands of atoms. In the metalloenzymes Nam studies, these wrap up in a specific way around metal ions, which act as catalysts. This all makes them very difficult to make, study and adjust, and to use: In the wrong conditions, enzymes can stop working, unravel or fry like an egg. So scientists like Nam try to make sim-
plified copies of the small area around the metal ion. “The enzyme works, but it’s difficult to study the detailed chemistry. That is one reason we use simplified systems,” said Nam. “And if we understand the chemistry then we can modify and make a better catalyst than nature does.” If this ultimate goal is reached, the possibilities are huge, ranging from cleaning to more efficient ways to make drugs and fuel. Nam pointed out that one big group of targets at the moment was enzymes that use light to turn water into hydrogen and oxygen. “If we understand this chemistry, we can make dioxygen artificially from water, and in that
TECHNOLOGY
March 7-13, 2014
reaction we gain a lot of energy and we can use that energy in fuel cells or other things,” he said. Such research can help develop new techniques not directly related to biomimetics. Professor Lee Sang-joon, who leads the Biofluid and Biomimetic Research Centre at Pohang University of Science and Technology, is working to mimic nature’s pumps. For example, the leaves of Mimosa pudica-sometimes known as touch-me-not-use a hydraulic system to close up when touched by animals or rain. This apparent defence mechanism is much more advanced than conventional hydraulics used in forklift trucks or excavators, so Lee hopes a copy of
MIMOSA PUDICA, COMMONLY KNOWN AS TOUCH-ME-NOT.
it could be used in advanced robotics. But before he could develop his pumps, he had to overcome a problem: He couldn’t see what he was copying. “Plants and mosquitoes have very tiny structures, and there was internal flow. So, for example, sucking blood is impossible to observe
with conventional microscopes,” he said. To overcome this, Lee said his team developed a new X-ray imaging technique to observe the fluid movement and used a new type of particle to measure the rate of flow. Recently his lab has used this to make progress in actual mimicry, developing a new pump
based on the way a mosquito sucks blood. He hopes that in a few years the new pump could be used in medical applications-such as a new type of syringe driver that could be put into tiny biochips and run without a power source. ¬
March 7-13, 2014
BUSINESS PHOTOS FROM THE STAR
Something’s brewing
BUSINESS
March 7-13, 2014
NEVASH NAIR The Star Petaling Jaya
I
f there's one thing the countries of the world have in common, it is coffee. Call it by any name: kafe, kava, kopi, cuppa—communities across the globe relish a serving of the "miracle drug" at any time of the day. Even if you are not a coffee drinker, you would have relied on a cup or two while pulling an all-nighter to complete an assignment or to cure a hangover following an evening of too much fun. These days, having a cup of coffee is no longer just about getting a caffeine fix. In many urban cities, the "coffee culture" seems to take on a life
Specialty coffee outlets are springing up in Malaysia, alongside the growth of the ‘coffee culture’
of its own. This can be seen in Malaysia in the number of cafes springing up around the country.
Spilling the beans The meteoric rise of coffee cafes not just in Malaysia, but around the world—dubbed the “Starbucks effect”—is unprecedented. In Brazil, where the poverty rate is unusually high for a middle-income country, the number of cafes serving premium coffee (and at the same time selling the coffee-drinking lifestyle) is booming. According to a study conducted last year by market research company Mintel, a quarter of Brazilian coffee drinkers claim they prefer premium over regular brands of coffee, and the market volume for coffee in Brazil is growing faster than in the US, year on year. In Asia’s two most populous
BUSINESS
March 7-13, 2014
countries, China and India, the age-old tea culture is also slowly giving way to the coffee culture. In India, specialty coffee chains have become a common sight in the urban and business districts, and have firmly established themselves as the “place-to-be-seen” for youngsters. It is predicted that by next year, there will be 4,000 specialty coffee outlets in India—almost double the number today. Meanwhile in China, the number of coffee houses has increased by nearly 100 per cent in the past five years—today amounting to over 31,000. In contrast, the number of tea houses has only grown by 4 per cent, some reports say. Widely known for its famous filter coffee, demand for imported specialty coffee in Vietnam has also grown considerable, ever since the country opened its doors to foreign investment a few years ago. Recent reports show that Vietnamese consume more than 2 million 60-kilogramme bags of coffee to date.
MORE THAN JUST A BEVERAGE, IT'S ART. TAN EMBELLISHING A CUP OF COFFEE WITH COFFEE ART.
While Malaysians have always enjoyed their cup of kopi-o (local caramel-roasted coffee), the habit of drinking specialty—or gourmet coffee—popping up all over the country like mushrooms after a rain shower.
One such cafe is Ministry of Coffee located in Solaris Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, owned by former barista Michael Tan. “Malaysians are increasingly well-travelled. More and more are able to tell the difference between a good cup of coffee and a bad one,” said Tan who has been in the coffee business for 15 years. He said that when he first started out as a barista, specialty coffees were not so popular among Malaysians. “It only started becoming a thing when international coffee chains like Starbucks, Gloria Jean’s and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf began opening more outlets. Malaysians started picking up on this lifestyle,” he added. Tan and his two partners decided to open Ministry of Coffee last year, after seeing a marked rise in the number of specialty coffee enthusiasts in Malaysia. They ploughed in about 500,000 ringgit (US$152,462) and use 100
BUSINESS
March 7-13, 2014
per cent organic coffee beans from their own plantation in Thailand. “We wanted to be different and provide our customers with a plant-to-cup experience. So we decided to invest in our own plantation and grow our own beans. This way, we can guarantee the quality of our beans,” said Tan. Ministry of Coffee uses 100kg of coffee beans every two to three months. A cup of coffee at the cafe starts from 9 ringgit. Their main targets are “hipsters and young working adults”, Tan said, adding that he is expecting the coffee culture in Malaysia to take deeper root and continue growing. However, he warns those who are interested in cashing in on the coffee culture boom to “know their coffee”. “I have seen many ‘hipster’ cafes close within six months of opening. Learning to ap-
ROASTCOFFEE2U STARTED AS A COFFEE ROASTER, BUT RECENTLY REVISED ITS BUSINESS MODEL TO BRING FRESHLY ROASTED PREMIUM COFFEE TO HOMES AND OFFICES IN THE COUNTRY.
preciate coffee is like learning to appreciate wine. It takes time, experience and ‘training’ your taste buds,” he said. Unsurprisingly, with the rise of the coffee culture in Malaysia, there is also a surge in the sale of coffee machines.
Taking it home
RoastCoffee2u started as a coffee roasting business, but recently revised its business model to bring freshly
roasted premium coffee to homes and offices in the country. A true coffee enthusiast, CEO James Khoo has nothing but praises for his beloved beans. “There are many things coffee can do—from helping sleepy people stay alert during meetings, to bringing people closer together,” said Khoo who has been selling coffee machines since 2010. He said that with more and more Malaysians being “into coffee”, his clientele has grown from “serious coffee connoisseurs” to “every day people”. He believes that it will not be long before Malaysians start buying coffee machines like they would a microwave oven or a television— as part of their home essentials. Prices for RoastCoffee2u’s coffee makers, which have won international design awards, start at 2,900 ringgit. ¬
BUSINESS
March 7-13, 2014
SOME OF THE COFFEE MACHINES BY ROASTCOFFEE2U WHICH HAVE WON AWARDS FOR THEIR DESIGNS.
March 7-13, 2014
Cruel ambitions Laos’ dam ambitions pose a grave threat to the existence of rare Irrawaddy dolphins
NIRMAL GHOSH The Straits Times Bangkok
ENVIRONMENT
March 7-13, 2014
ENVIRONMENT
ENVIRONMENT
March 7-13, 2014
T
o the many fishing and farming families living on the banks of the Mekong River in Cambodia, the sight of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin is part of the soundtrack of their lives. But that could change—and very soon too. Almost 5,000km long and running through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, the Mekong feeds some 60 million people. With 877 species of fish recorded, it is the second most biodiverse river system in the world after the Amazon. Studies have put its value as an inland fishery at more than US$3 billion annually. This value is the greatest in the lower reaches, where the river fans out across the Lao and Cambodian plains, swelling with water in the monsoon season and filling out Tonle Sap, Cambodia's sprawling inland lake. Yet, the demand for energy has led to plans for as many as 11 hy-
droelectric dams—nine in Laos and two in Cambodia—to be constructed on the Mekong and even more on its tributaries. By 2030, there will be a staggering 77 dams across the Mekong basin. Construction is under way for some, and completed for others. In China, where the Mekong is known as the Lancang, six dams are either ready or being built. The scramble for revenue-earning hydroelectric power has caused friction among the Asean neighbours. Laos, with ambitions to become "the battery of Southeast Asia", last year began construction of the Xayaburi dam on the Mekong mainstream despite the objections of downstream neighbours Cambodia and Vietnam. The latest bone of contention is the proposed Don Sahong dam, which Laos will build near the border with Cambodia. Its construction threatens the livelihoods of fishermen down-
stream and could wipe out a small population of endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in Cambodia, conservationists and critics have warned. Last month, at a meeting of the Vientiane-based intergovernmental Mekong River Commission (MRC), Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam agreed to refer the matter to the MRC Council, which comprises water and environment ministers. The council is to decide whether building the Don Sahong dam warrants "prior consultation" with Laos' neighbours before it proceeds, or whether only "notification" is required. Laos maintains that since the dam will affect only about 15 per cent of the water volumes in the area, this is not significant enough to warrant "prior consultation", which means it can go ahead with the project unilaterally. As in the case of Xayaburi dam, there is nothing to stop it.
ENVIRONMENT
March 7-13, 2014
However, at least one study says that the 256MW Don Sahong dam will reduce fish populations downstream by up to 30 per cent. "The dam will block the only channel suitable for year-round fish migration, putting the world's largest inland fishery at risk," the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) said in a report last Thursday. Balancing priorities will not be easy. The only certainty is that the exploitation of the Mekong will transform the entire landscape over the next five to 10 years, changing irrevocably the character of a transnational ecosystem in ways that are as yet poorly understood. This will increase friction, both within and between countries. Sharing the Mekong and managing the far-reaching changes is already testing relationships—but this is only the beginning. Hydroelectricity qualifies as renewable energy and brings in hard cash, mostly from sales to neigh-
bours like Thailand. The consequence of building dams for poor but resource-rich countries like Laos will also be far-reaching and involve many trade-offs. But there will be contentious issues for years to come. They will include the way revenues are allocated, how thousands of families are resettled from dam sites, and what changes in environmental and food security will be triggered by manipulating the hydrology of a complex ecosystem. At a forum on the Don Sahong dam at Bangkok's Chulalongkorn University last week, environmental groups discussed the ramifications of the project. But as former Thai senator Kraisak Choonhavan stressed, the discussions taking place in the airy, high-ceiling room were far removed from the reality at the Mekong. Laos, one of the poorest and least developed countries in Southeast Asia, is well within its rights, prior
consultation required or otherwise, to build the dam. At this moment, at least, no environmental movement is capable of changing that, Kraisak said. According to the WWF, there are only 85 Irrawaddy dolphins left in the Mekong. They bring in revenue for Cambodia from tourists who pay $9 for an hour on a boat to look for the rare mammals. Building the Don Sahong dam will entail blasting rocks, sending shock waves through the area, and will cut off the migration path of fish that use the channel. This will precipitate the extinction of the dolphins. Without a long-term vision for managing changes on the Mekong, the sigh of the dolphin will fade into silence. More importantly, the fate of these endangered mammals is but a barometer of the future—of the tens of thousands of people whose lifeline is the Mekong. 
March 7-13, 2014
LIFESTYLE
Asian and beautiful Darker skin tones have the ability to get away with bolder shades
SARAH LIAN
LIFESTYLE
March 7-13, 2014
BERVIN CHEONG The Star Petaling Jaya
Y
ou’ve probably heard of the idiom “beauty comes in all shapes and sizes”. Fortunately, so do products. This means there’s something for everyone out there, no matter what your skin tone or face shape, to help you look your natural best.
The thing is, Hollywood gives a surreal approach to beauty and many people have the misconception that it’s tough to find suitable make-up for darker skin tones. Make-up gurus, however, say the exact opposite as those with darker colour, apparently, can get away with bolder shades and not come off looking as though someone used all the colours in the paintbox on your face!
AISHWARYA RAI
LIFESTYLE
March 7-13, 2014
Given the many different brands available today plus the right knowhow, it’s quite possible to achieve runway looks without trying too hard. One of the most common complaints is that it’s difficult to find the perfect shade of foundation to match darker skin tones. According to Carina Choo, senior education manager for Bobbi Brown Malaysia, most makeup products suit all skin types, regardless of ethnicity. So, it’s really about choosing the right colour. “You must understand your personal concerns and expectations. Find out which products offer the best solution to your needs, and never follow a beauty trend blindly,” she advises. “There’s no fixed formula that absolutely
LINA TEOH
works for all. That’s why it’s important to always try the product before you make a purchase.” That being said, there are some basic rules to follow. For example, foundations with a yellow base generally work better for Asian skin. Using those with a red or pink undertone may leave you look-
ing too white or give you an orange pallor. Director of product and brand development for Ronasutra, Audri Zin, thinks that it’s important for Asian women not to go more than one shade above or below your natural skin colour. “Choosing colours that are too light, for instance,
will result in an unnatural, ashen and unhealthy look. Also, choose those that contain a natural sheen that will reflect light and give off a healthy glow. “Asians should also look to mineral makeup. As they tend to have sensitive skin, a mineral (rather than pigment) base works better for them. Their skins are often smoother too, and as such, a light coverage is sufficient,” Zin adds. Many Asians often have single or heavy eyelids that make the eyes look tired or smaller. Also, they tend to have less prominent cheekbones. This makes their faces appear wider and rounder. The trick here is to play up your natural features and avoid trying to transform yourself into
LIFESTYLE
March 7-13, 2014
DEBORAH HENRY
LIFESTYLE
March 7-13, 2014
MEGAN YOUNG
LIFESTYLE
March 7-13, 2014
something you’re not. It’s quite easy to subtly enhance other areas with the right shading and tools to make them appear distinctive. For instance, Haritha Shan, senior make-up artist for M.A.C, is of the opinion that Asian women tend to have sparse eyebrows. This can be a problem as brows work to help frame and define the face. “Almost every woman, no matter her ethnicity, has sparse brows that need to be filled in, but Asians in particular, may need a little more help. Doing so will balance out your features beautifully.” Haritha adds that one should try custom-blending foundations. She says that if you are unable to find the perfect shade
that suits your skin tone, try mixing two different shades to get one that will match perfectly. Wearing foundation that is too light for your skin tone will have you looking like a ghost. This will look unnatural and clearly shows that you’re wearing foundation, and one that’s not flattering to your look. Too dark and you’ll end up looking like you’re wearing a mask. But if you want to play it safe, choosing a foundation that’s just a shade darker will look like you’ve just got a tan, and this can be evened out with a lighter-coloured loose powder. Other recommendations include playing up the lips with either rich or extremely soft colours.
Blushes should be applied high on the cheeks to make your face look more sculpted. In Malaysia, women tend to leave out liners, but these along with the right eyeshadow, can make a difference in highlighting the eyes and make them look larger. US make-up artist and TV personality Jeannie Mai (born to a Chinese mother and Vietnamese father), is a regular advocate of Asian beauty. She frequently talks about how it shouldn’t be dismissed for Western ideals. In a video posted on YouTube, she speaks about Asian eyes and how gorgeous they are. Her video demonstrates how one can accentuate them
to look sexy and gorgeous with the right make-up. “Embrace your face. Embrace exactly the way you look. Use make-up to enhance your natural features. Avoid trying to transform yourself into something you’re not,” she said in an interview. In an article on multi-cultural beauty by Gerrie Summers, celebrity make-up artist Monae Everett Geark said that dark skin tones can generally wear almost any colour. Warmer tones such as gold or bronze complement darker skin tones the best. Dark colours look more natural and beautiful on dark skin such as deep purples, dark blue, and black eye shadows, she added. ¬
TRAVEL
March 7-13, 2014
EDNA TARIGAN AND BRATA KUSUMA The Jakarta Post Jakarta
Whether it’s a megastructure marvel, a traditional canopy bridge, or just an icon for lovers, these five bridges have their own unique features and are worth visiting.
Indonesia’s 5 iconic bridges
TRAVEL
March 7-13, 2014
Suramadu bridge, Madura
L
ocated in Surabaya, the bridge connects Surabaya to the island of Madura. Even though the 5.4-kilometre bridge is a toll road, acessible only to motorised vehicles, it still attracts tourists. Since the bridge opened in 2009, it made land transportation the most practical way to reach Madura from Surabaya. With a toll of 30,000 rupiah (US$2.60) for
cars and buses and 3,000 rupiah for motorcycles, you will get to admire the longest and the first-ever toll bridge in the country up close and maybe buy a souvenir or two—from batik to a mini version of clurit (Madura's traditional sharp weapon)—offered by many roadside stalls on Madura. While on the island, don't forget to stop by Bebek Sinjay, famous for its mouthwatering crispy fried duck.
TRAVEL
March 7-13, 2014
Jembatan Cinta, Tidung Island
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f you happen to visit Tidung Island in the Thousand island area, there’s a popular bridge called Jembatan Cinta (Love bridge). Constructed in 2005, the bridge crosses a calm section of sea and connects Tidung Besar Island and Tidung Kecil Island. It is also popular as a viewpoint during sunset, especially for lovers.
The bridge is also known for its romantic tale. Locals say each couple that walk along the bridge holding hands, or who jump off the bridge together, will be a couple forever. Because of these tales, the bridge has become a popular place to propose.
March 7-13, 2014
Barelang bridges, Batam
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chain of six bridges connecting six islands: Batam, Tonton, Nipah, Rempang, Galang and Galang Baru. Some people called it the Habibie bridge as the former Indonesian president initiated the contruction. The Tengku Fisabilillah bridge is the first bridge of the chain, a popular tourist landmark. The bridges make exploring easy and bring positive impacts for tourism on Batam’s nearby islands. People can easily access Galang Beach with its white powdery sand, or can visit a former Vietnamese refugee camp on Galang island in less than 30 minutes from Batam Island. While exploring the bridges, you can try to savour local street food along the side of the bridge. End the trip at dusk, as the sunset view from the bridge is breathtaking.
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March 7-13, 2014
Ampera bridge, Palembang, South Sumatera
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onstructed in April 1962, the bridge connects Seberang Ulu and Seberang Ilir and is Palembang’s most popular landmark. The whole bridge is now painted red—previously it was yellow–giving an extra contrast to the Musi River beneath. The bridge is not just a symbol, but is the pride of the city. It was designed as a vertical lift bridge. Part of this 944-tonne bridge can be raised up and down at about 10 metres per minute. When the middle section of the bridge is not raised, the maximum
height of ships able to pass is nine metres above water level. Meanwhile, when the bridge is raised, a ship 60 metres wide and a maximum height of 44.50 metres can pass into the Musi River. However, today the bridge cannot be lifted for safety reasons. One of the best spots to see the bridge is from Benteng Kuto Besak. From here, you can climb and walk along the 1,770-metre bridge. At night, the bridge is lighted. Having dinner at a seafood restaurant at the riverside is something worth trying while visiting Palembang.
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March 7-13, 2014
Canopy bridge, Bangkirai hill, East Kalimantan
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angkirai Hill’s most memorable construction is its canopy bridge, stretching 64 metres at a height of 30 metres above ground, connecting five bangkirai trees. The materials of the bridge, which was built in 1998 and finished in the US, include wood, nylon mesh, cables and stainless steel. Getting on the bridge requires another uphill effort, climbing the stairs to the tower. The whole affair is not recommended for those with an acute fear of heights.
If your heart flutters, you can overcome the tingling feeling by taking it easy once you reach the top of the tower. Inhale the fresh air deeply, soak up the scenery and try to spot the forest’s inhabitants, who might be hanging around, literally. Entrance costs 2,000 rupiah (20 US cents) for adults and 1,000 rupiah for children. An additional price of 15,000 rupiah for domestic tourists and 30,000 rupiah for foreign tourists applies for those wanting to go across the canopy bridge. ¬
March 7-13, 2014
DATEBOOK
ÂŹ Pattaya, Thailand World MuayThai Championship
The most prestigious Thai boxing event, hosted by the World MuayThai Federation, sees fighters from all over the globe contesting for the Champion title and belt.
When: March 13-23 Where: Pattaya 8 School Stadium, Pattaya Info: www.facebook. com/pages/WorldMuaythai-Federation
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March 7-13, 2014
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March 7-13, 2014
ÂŹ Thailand Thai Elephant Day
A day to appreciate and celebrate the great jumbos which are considered sacred and symbolises royalty in Thailand. Special elephant shows and activities with the beloved pachyderms will be held at most elephant sanctuaries in the country.
When: March 13 Where: Elephant sanctuaries all over Thailand
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March 7-13, 2014
ÂŹ India Jodhpur Flamenco and Gypsy Festival
A new festival to promote and nurture the unique relationship between Rajasthani and Flamenco folk cultures. A three-day musical event that sees the best of flamenco traditions in India.
When: March 13-15 Where: Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan Info: www.jfgfestival.com
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March 7-13, 2014
ÂŹ Kerala, India Thirunakkara Arattu One of Kerala's famous temple festivals. The main highlight of this 10-day festival is the procession of elephants, accompanied by drummers and other performers, believed to be carrying the temple god to be bathed. Other attractions are the traditional Kathakali dances which are performed throughout the third and fourth days of the festival, as well as folk art like the Mayilattom (peacock dance) in the temple compound.
When: March 15-24 Where: Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam District, Kerala
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March 7-13, 2014
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March 7-13, 2014
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March 7-13, 2014
ÂŹ India Holi Commonly known as the "Festival of colours", revelers party and dance under the rain of coloured water and powder in the streets. Bhang, a paste made from cannabis plants, is also traditionally consumed. On the eve of Holi, light bonfires to mark the occasion and ward of evil spirits.
When: March 17 Where: All over India, particularly in the north. Celebrations in the south have a more religious focus.
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March 7-13, 2014
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March 7-13, 2014
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March 7-13, 2014
¬ Singapore
¬ Singapore
Festival of Media Asia Pacific
Maison & Objet Asia
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The most prestigious home fashion and design exhibition, bringing over 150 exhibitors from top brands in the industry.
When: March 10-13 Where: Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre Info: www.maison-objet.com/en/asia
The Festival of Media Asia Pacific, the largest gathering of leaders in the media industry worldwide, returns to Singapore's shores. This year's conference will explore the theme "Agility", bringing to the stage some of the most forward-thinking leaders in the industry.
When: March 16-18 Where: Capella Hotel, Singapore Info: www.festivalofmedia.com
ASIAN CITY GUIDE Asia News Network
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A guide to leading cities in Asia
THIS WEEK IN
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Manila
HIGHLIGHTS
What's on
Shopping
Eateries
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What’s on
¬ Holy week Holy Week in the Philippines is a significant religious observance for the Roman Catholic majority and most Protestant groups. Beginning Maundy Thursday, businesses in the Philippines either shut down operations until Black Saturday or have later opening and earlier closing times. During the Easter Triduum (usually a public holiday), some local terrestrial television and radio stations go off air. Those that do operate truncate broadcasting hours and feature religious programmes and news coverage of religious ceremonies. Many communities observe Spanish-influenced Catholic rituals such as processions, with many having been syncretised with pre-Hispanic beliefs. This is evident in local practices and the many superstitions associated with the occasion. When: April 12-19 Where: All over the Philippines
¬ Black Nazarene The procession of the Black Nazarene is the largest procession in the country, taking place on January 9 and on Good Friday through the streets of Quiapo, a small part of metro Manila, where thousands parade with a life-sized, black wooden statue of Jesus (the Nazarene) that was brought by a priest from Mexico to Manila in 1606. The story goes that during the 17th century, missionaries from Spain were on their way to the Philippines with the statue, when the ship they were sailing in caught fire. The statue of Jesus, though charred, was saved and restored, and has since been kept at the Saint John the Baptist church in Quiapo, Manila. Devotees believe that miracles happen after touching the statue.
When: January 9 and Good Friday Where: Quiapo
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What’s on
ÂŹ Christmas in the Philippines Christmas in the Philippines, being one of two predominantly Catholic countries in Asia (the other one being East Timor), is one of the biggest holidays in the archipel ago. Christmas carols are heard as early as September and lasting until Epiphany (the feast of the Black Nazarene) on January 9, or the Feast of the Santo Nino de Cebu on the third Sunday of January. The official observance in from December 16 with the beginning of Simbang Gabi (devotional nine-day series of Masses) to Epiphany. While the season is celebrated differently according to the various ethnic groups, common activities include parties, Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, and the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
When: From December 16 Where: All over the Philippines
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What’s on
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What’s on
ÂŹ Panagbenga Festival The month-long annual flower festival in Baguio, the Philippine's summer capital, sees visitors throng from all over the country and overseas to witness the beautifully decorated flower floats paraded through the streets. Meaning "season of blooming", the festival was started as a tribute to the city's noteworthy blooms, as well as a way to rise up from the devastation of the 1990 Luzon earthquake. Apart from serving to boost the city's tourism industry, the Panagbenga festival also helps the younger generation rediscover their cultural traditions.
When: February 1 to March 1 Where: All over Baguio City, Luzon
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What’s on
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What’s on
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What’s on
¬ Santacruzan (Flores de Mayo) ¬ Sinulog Festival The Sinulog is an annual festival on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City, Maasin City, Southern Leyte, and Balingasag, Misamis Oriental in the Philippines. It is to commemorate the Filipinos' pagan origins, and their embracing of Roman Catholicism. The main feature of the festival is a street parade with participants in bright costumes dancing to the rhythm of drums, trumpets and native gongs. In the warm months of May, when flowers bloom after rain showers, Filipinos celebrate the Flores de Mayo (Spanish for "flowers of May"). During this month-long festival, flowers are offered to the Virgin Mary in churches. The festival usually concludes with the Santacruzan, also known as the Queen of Festivals in the Philippines, where a pageant is held in honour of Helena (or "Reyna Elena") and Constantine finding the True Cross in Jerusalem.
When: May 1 to 31 Where: All over the Philippines
When: Third week of January every year Where: Cebu City, Maasin City, Southern Leyte, and Balingasag, Misamis Oriental
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Shopping
ÂŹ Quiapo Hometown of the Black Nazarene and also a place which offers cheap prices on items ranging from electronics to native handicrafts and pirated DVDs
ÂŹ San Nicolas Home to the Divisoria Flea Market, where adventurous shoppers may go for cheap buys.
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Eateries
¬ Mesa Whether you’re acquainting someone with Filipino food or want to indulge in the familiar (like a home-cooked meal, with a modern twist), Mesa is the place to go. Its distinctly Filipino accents will make you feel right at home. Its best known appetiser, the Crispy Hito Flakes (pulled catfish) with mango salad, is thoughtfully presented on a series of spoons. Imaginative as it is delicious, this dish is a must-try.
Where: Ground floor, Greenbelt 5 Mall, Makati
¬ Paseo Uno Paseo Uno, on the ground floor of the Mandarin Hotel, is the farthest thing from a hotel coffee shop you can think of. The decor is ultramodern with Oriental accents. There is a full a la carte menu, starting with a choice of Western, Chinese, Japanese or local breakfast dishes. For later in the day, there is a variety of salads, soups and snacks.
Where: Ground floor, Mandarin Oriental Manila, Paseo de Roxas, Makati
¬ Veneto A visit to Veneto (other branches carry the name Napoli) is a journey of discovery into a world of very affordable pasta and pizza sensibilities. The 5-Nut Pesto is a must. Among the other dishes include Buffalo Wings, Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza and Roast Beef and Cheese Hero Sandwich. Inspired by American-Italian restaurants coming out of New Jersey.
Where: 2nd floor, Triquetra Building, E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue, Libis, Quezon City
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Eateries
¬ Tsoko Nut Batirol Tsoko Nut Batirol is known for its Tsoko Nut Batirol and Tsokolate Ah Batirol (chocolate drinks) and classic Filipino desserts. Every visit translates to a "homecoming"—a return to good ol' days of good blends, good eats and good recollection.
Where: 3rd Level, Podium 3, RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Ave. corner Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Salcedo Village, Makati
At Bistro Remedios, popular Filipino dishes are given platings and presentations that give them a whole new spin, although prepared following heirloom recipes that highlight fresh flavours. That is the reason why Bistro Remedios has become a favourite of foreigners who are adventurous to try Filipino food but at a loss just where to start. Its cozy ambiance and homecooked meals assure guests of an authentic Filipino dining experience.
¬ Agave Mexican Cantina At Agave Mexican Cantina, have a taste of authentic Mexican dishes made from the finest ingredients available. Join us for a meal you won't forget! From the classics like our piled high Nacho Grande and sizzling combo fajitas with steak, chicken and shrimp to our famous bottomless fresh fruit Margaritas, Agave satisfies your cravings!
¬ Bistro Remedios
Where: Unit 2, CKB Center, Scout Rallos cor. Tomas Morato, Quezon City
Where: 1911 M. Adriatico St., Remedios Circle, Malate, Manila
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Eateries
¬ Cafe Adriatico Cafe Adriatico serves a full menu of Filipino, Spanish and Continental fare. Its menu also includes a variety of light options such as salads, sandwiches, omelets and fondues. Among the Cafe's specialties are a mix of Filipino and Spanish dishes like Spareribs Adobo, Lengua Estufada, and authentic Spanish hot chocolate "Chocolate Eh”.
¬ Cabalen Cabalen, a Capampangan word which literally means “kababayan”, is a fine dining restaurant with strategic branches around Metro Manila. With the conceptualisation of eat-all-you-can, eat-all-you-want and cravings of Pampango dishes, Cabalen expanded more outlets in the next 22 years caterings to its customer's appetising tastebuds.
Where: Ground Level, Padre Faura Wing, Robinsons Place Manila, Pedro Gil cor. Adriatico Sts., Ermita, Manila
Where: 1790 M. Adriatico St., Remedios Circle, Malate, Manila