Borneo Talk vol 50 by BorneoTalk Kuching

VOL.50 OCT-DEC 2018

ISSN 1823-9625 | PPK380/03/2013(031735)

Sarawak & its timber Highlights stidc . visit miri . lifestyle

Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg Chief Minister Of Sarawak

Welcome to Sarawak, Happy 45th Anniversary to STIDC

he Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) has come a long way since its inception 45 years ago. It was set up to sustainably manage the Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s timber industry and boost the local economy through downstream timber-based activities and beyond. In Malaysia, STIDC is a beacon for others to follow in the sustainable management of timber industry, with compulsory certification for licenced timber companies operating in the Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heart of Borneo initiative since 2015 and others outside of the area by 2022. These are aimed at achieving transparency for the industry when dealing with international trade partners while ensuring that local industries thrive. More importantly, no new timber licences will be issued. This ensures that our forest resources remain protected for generations to come. We have also adopted new technologies in the industry, with remote sensing, hyper spectral, compact airborne tactical and drones to monitor our forests. In 2017, Sarawakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s furniture export increased to RM46.6 million from RM31.3 in 2015. Policies and programmes are now in place to train a bigger pool of talent for the timber industries in collaboration with institutions of higher learning.

Meanwhile, the State of Sarawak welcomes you with open arms. Besides our offering of abundant natural and cultural attractions along with unique gastronomic options, we also invite you to take part in an array of events taking place between now and December 2018. For fans of cross-country challenge, the Sarawak Borneo Cross Country Rally 2018 takes participants across Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia from Nov 24 to Dec 5, covering 12 days and 11 nights. It is indeed an adventure of a lifetime and is open to all cross-country motorcycling enthusiasts. The Sarawak Adventure Challenge on Oct 13 in Kuching is a day of multi-sport adventures and open to all. Those with any sort of talent such as singing, dancing and others should put their skills on display at the Borneo Talent Award 2018, set to be held in Sibu on Nov 23. Christmas in Sarawak is quite unique, where open houses are held to welcome friends and acquaintances for some festive food and merrymaking during the joyous occasion. Hop over to neighbouring Brunei, Sabah or Kalimantan, Indonesia for different experiences, all within Borneo. Different regions and cities each provide their unique range of food, culture and experience like no other places. Connectivity is a breeze, with short flying times providing ample opportunities to see Borneo through different perspectives. You simply must come and experience everything yourself. Before I conclude, I would like to congratulate BorneoTalk for this 50th issue, which continues to provide fantastic coverage of tourism and other activities in Borneo for locals and visitors to read about. Well done BorneoTalk and keep up the good work showcasing Borneo to the world with your interesting, colourful and engaging articles! Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 3

STIDC

Embracing the future Transforming the timber industry into high end, value-added business

o this day, Sarawak’s timber industry remains the pillar of its economy, contributing some RM6 to 7 billion in annual timber export earnings. Last year alone, a total of RM6.13 billion in timber and timber products from Sarawak were exported globally, a three-fold increase from RM2.1 billion in 1988. This accounted for 6.4% of the State’s overall export value of major commodities in 2017. In an interview with BorneoTalk recently, Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation’s (STIDC) Chairman of the Board of Management, YB Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said this represented roughly 26% out of the RM23 billion national export value of timber and timber products in 2017. “The timber industry ranked fourth in terms of export earnings after Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) RM41.1 billion, palm oil RM13 billion and crude petroleum and 4 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

petroleum products RM10.3 billion. Sarawak has been the largest producer and exporter of plywood in Malaysia,” he quipped, saying also that the State currently had 420 wood-based processing mills, providing as many as 40,000 people with employment opportunities.

Log Reservation Quota Policy In 1988, the State Government introduced the Log Reservation Quota Policy (LRQP). Meant to encourage downstream processing, the policy ensures that a substantial amount of logs extracted from permanent forest estates are reserved for local processing. This means adequate supply of logs to meet the demands of the downstream industry.

Chairman of the Board of Management STIDC, Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan (right) with STIDC’s Acting General Manager, Haji Hashim Haji Bojet (left)

When it was first introduced, the State’s log reserve for local processing was only at 10%. That changed over the

STIDC years and today, with the LRQP firmly rooted, 80% goes to local processing while the remaining 20% is for export. “The implementation of the LRQP had undoubtedly contributed positive growth in the domestic processing, which saw significant increase in the number of woodbased mills in the State,” Awang Tengah said, disclosing that the number of mills had increased from just 177 in 1990 to over 400 at present. Growth, he said, was most apparent in the panel products sector, especially so with plywood processing – a big contributor to Sarawak’s timber export value. Thanks to the policy, the State has become the largest producer and exporter of tropical hardwood plywood in the region.

Improved management To facilitate business, the State Government developed online systems to manage the main processes. This resulted in improved data management while also reducing delivery time and cost. These online services are given at no cost at all. In the future, more online services will be rendered and integrated among the related agencies, while efficiency will be enhanced through processes that are transparent.

of land as Permanent Forest Estates while another 1 million hectare is declared as Totally Protected Areas. To this date, 35 national parks, 14 nature reserves and four wildlife sanctuaries totalling 903,769 hectares have been gazetted. These include water bodies. “To enhance efforts for sustainable forest management and ensure continuous international market acceptance of our timber products, the State Government has made it mandatory for all long-term forest timber licencees to be certified by 2022. Forest management certification has become the main requirement for buyers to ensure that timber and timber products are sourced from sustainably managed forests as well as to address global concern on environmental issues,” Awang Tengah explained. “The State Planted Forests Policy is to complement the supply of raw materials and mitigate pressure on natural forests. The target is to establish 1 million hectares of planted forests by 2025.” “The State is also exploring the potential of utilising non-timber raw materials particularly bamboo. STIDC has

Meanwhile, the State Government will continue assisting by promoting wood products both locally and abroad so as to expand the existing markets and penetrate new ones.

Sustainable practices The State Government initiated planted forest development in Sarawak, with emphasis on fast growing species such as Acacia, Eucalyptus, Batai, Kelampayan and others. It’s a sustainable way of ensuring a steady supply of high quality raw materials for local downstream industries, who utilise timber from planted forests to produce plywood, sawn timber, furniture, medium density fibreboard, woodchips and pellets.

Preserving Sarawak’s forest Sarawak has a clear land use policy that encompasses all aspects of economic development, social wellbeing and environmental balanced and integrity. It involves three main sectors, namely forestry, agriculture and other land uses. As far as forestry is concerned, the State Government has targeted 6 million hectares

been entrusted to spearhead R&D on bamboo planting and utilisation,” he concluded. This will benefit small and medium enterprises, help spur the economy and sustain the timber industry.

Advancements in the timber industry Over the years, the timber industry in Sarawak has seen many changes and advancements. It all started with the harvesting of timber from our natural forest. Today, the industry has progressed tremendously. However, it became crucial to develop a sustainable and renewable source of timber. Hence, planted forests were introduced Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 5

STIDC in mid 1990’s. Some industry players have since upgraded their production technology so as to be able to process timber species like Acacia Mangium from planted forests, while at the same time still able to process timber from the natural forest. Speaking in an interview with BorneoTalk, STIDC’s Acting General Manager, Haji Hashim Haji Bojet said that the local timber industry was poised to shift from natural forest to planted forests. This advancement, he said, will pave the way for the development of planted timberbased products such as fibreboard, oriented strand boards, engineered wood products, pulps and bio-fuels.

Exploring new opportunities STIDC, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) and Samling Housing Products Sdn Bhd have been working collaboratively on a number of projects on timber applications. Their Pool of Young Designers (POYOD) programme launched in January 2018 trains young professional furniture designers to meet the needs of the industry. The second batch of POYOD will commence industrial training in early 2019. “POYOD is part of the Corporation’s efforts to transform the timber sector into a high-income industry by 2030. The programme is envisaged to enhance fresh designer graduates with entrepreneurship skills and knowledge in tandem with the industry needs,” Haji Hashim told BorneoTalk.

6 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

At present, there are six UNIMAS students who are undergoing a 12-month attachment training programme with Samling. The target is for at least 100 trained young designers to be produced under this programme by the year 2030. “STIDC has brought POYOD trainees to participate in INDEX Mumbai held from May 3-6, 2018, Mumbai, India, to showcase their 19 new designs. The new designs were produced by Samling and have received overwhelming response from visitors. POYOD trainees also participated in the Australian International Furniture Fair (AIFF) on July 19 – 22, 2018, in Melbourne,” Haji Hashim shared. “STIDC’s participation in these exhibitions reflects its

STIDC commitment to promote and commercialise Acacia based furniture designs developed by POYOD,” he continued. Besides POYOD, there is also the Kursi PUSAKA programme, a joint effort between STIDC and UNIMAS’ Institute of Design and Innovation (iNDI), emphasising on the development of new products from Acacia. Furniture design competitions are held with an aim to promote new design ideas for commercial furniture and create Sarawak’s own unique identity in the furniture industry. Five entries from Kursi PUSAKA with the concept of “living furniture” were highlighted at the Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) in Kuala Lumpur earlier this year. Their unique designs, namely ‘Midin Rack’ by Lee Jan Bo, ‘Borneo Coffee Table’ by Muhammad

The way forward As stated by the Chief Minister, no new timber licences will be issued this year. This encourages the transformation of the timber sector into planted forest-based industry, albeit gradually. It also means increasing planted forest areas to improve yield and ensure sufficient supply of raw materials for the industry in the future. In addition to this, the State Government is encouraging the use of alternative raw materials such as bamboo as well as the import of logs and timber products to supplement raw materials for local processing mills. “STIDC has implemented the Timber Industry Transformation Plan since 2015 to sustain the timber industry as one of the main economic activities for the State. It will transform the current structure from primary based processing to high value timber processing to achieve the export earnings target of RM10 billion by 2030,” he explained. “Toward that end, STIDC is working closely with the industry players, other agencies and higher learning institution locally and internationally on R&D on timber utilisation, technology, product development and design.”

Indrianto Mas’ud, ‘Nexus Coffee Table’ by Daeng Mohamad Khairul, ‘Terendak Side Table’ by Queeny Loy Lim Yee and ‘Mengkuang Tallboy’ by Siti Nurhasyikin Mohd Sabri, garnered quite the attention at the fair, which was held from March 8 to 11, 2018 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

As for its plans for the next few decades, Haji Hashim said that STIDC would focus on enhancing the growth of the local timber industry by promoting the utilisation of planted species for value added products, leveraging growth through collaborative R&D, developing human capital in line with the industry needs and encourage automation and transfer of new technology.

Global exposure Besides timber expos held locally, STIDC also participates in international timber exhibitions. This is one of the approaches taken by STIDC as its annual programme to promote Sarawak’s value added timber products in existing and new markets. “This can also generate trade enquiries and strengthen networking with existing and potential buyers in the global market. We are promoting our products in the key traditional and new markets like India, United Arab Emirates, China, Australia and others.”

Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 7

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IN THIS ISSUE STIDC (4) Embracing the future (9) The STIDC story (10) STIDC’s Timber Museum showcases Sarawak’s relationship with the rainforest (11) Leveraging on digital technology - the STIDC way forward (12) Prioritising usage of local timber products (13) d’Galeri PUSAKA showcases superb Sarawak furniture (14) Planted forests maximise yield, minimise ecological impact (15) STIDC CSR contribute back to the rakyat (17) TMP poised to become trade hub for the Central Region . COE (18) Sarawak Calendar of Events October to December 2018 . EVENTS (16) Rainforest World Music Festival (21) What about Kuching? Get in on the conversation! (23) Come celebrate a century-old legacy (24) Business Events Forum 2018 • 10th Better Air Quality Conference (25) A Breath of Not-So-Fresh Air (27) Rotary, OCBC to hold charity run (29) Creativity unleashed (30) Who to watch out for at Alta Moda Sarawak 2018 (32) Row to the beat of the drums! (33) Sarawak Regatta where everybody is a winner (34) The Kevin Hart Irresponsible Tour (35) Spotlight on non-timber forest products of Sarawak (36) 13th Asia Pacific Orchid Conference 2019 . Travel (37) Elegant, vibrant, mysterious (38) Of wrecks and reptiles (46) Sarawak – Sanctuary for rejuvenation, wellbeing (48) Cove 55: luxury retreat that’s truly unique (52) Majesty of nature in Bali (54) Enjoy Indonesia stress-free with Intercontinental Travel! . MAP (44) Miri (45) Kuching . People (50) Keeping up with Keller (51) “I was the only guy in a room full of girls!” - Hendri Take on Yoga, Nature and Life . FOOD (55) Just like mum’s cooking (56) Imperial Hotel Kuching (57) Chicken Rice: the glue that holds Kuching together (58) Feel the kick, without the pinch! (59) Coffee brewed with passion (60) Potato Story • Meat and beer at Oinks! (61) Seeing blue @ Soi 19 (62) Clean and classy (63) Think Pepper, Think Sarawak Pepper (77) Carnival of flavours . Hotel (20) Samalaju Resort Hotel (22) Imperial Hotel Miri (26) Dorset Boutique Hotel • Tanahmas The Sibu Hotel (28) The Waterfront Hotel (70) Li Hua Hotel & Medan Hotel . FEATURE (64) Driving Bintulu’s growth, 40 years and counting (66) Managing The Native Courts of Sarawak in the new era . EDUCATION (68) Change on the horizon for Sarawak education (69) St. Mary’s schools . BT Lens (71) Photos taken between Jul & Sept 2018 . ETC (70) Popular Bookstore . Health (72) Treatment of recurrent dislocation of shoulder - KPJ Kuching (73) Addressing cataract - KPJ Sibu . Lifestyle (74) BT Fashion File (76) The WOW factor!

BorneoTalk is published since 2006 by Bumi Serasi. The contents of the magazine may not be reprinted or reproduced without prior written permission. The publisher is not liable for statements made and opinions expressed in the publication.

Write to us at BorneoTalk, 242E, Lorong Green No. 3, Jalan Green, 93150 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. T: +6082 427 423, 238 968 F: +6082 235 152 E: ivypan.bumiserasi@gmail.com The next issue of BorneoTalk will be out in January 2019.

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8 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

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Editor-In-Chief Ivy Pan Editor Lester Geres Marketing Ivy Pan, Ashley Pan Administration Ajariah Umar Contributors Vincent Wong, S C Goh, Dr. Lee Woo Guan, Dr. Thomas Law Ngo Hieng, A.M. Ishraq Design & Art Direction Steven Yap Photography Lester Geres, David Joseph, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), Social Media, STIDC, BDA, Miri Photographic Society, Forest Department Sarawak, MTACYS, Place Borneo, Freepik Front Cover Image “Sarawak & its timber” by STIDC Printer ATLAS Cetak (M) Sdn Bhd, No.2, Persiaran Industri Bandar Sri Damansara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

STIDC

The STIDC story

Innovations, creativity and achievements key for success

ll Government ministries, departments and agencies must strive to achieve various international and national standards in line with the Sarawak Government aspirations, especially in this digital era. Amongst these institutions in Sarawak, the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) has over its 45 years of establishment in 2018, achieved much accolades and recognitions for its innovative, excellence and creative approaches in making the corporation a leading standard bearer for the State. “For all our achievements and recognitions received over the years in terms of providing services and improving productivity within our own corporation, we must thank all the effort being put in by the staff and management to gain these accolades,” stated Haji Hashim Haji Bojet, Acting General Manager of STIDC. “Without their contributions and dedications we would not be where we are and we will continue to strive for even more success for the coming years. Improving standards and productivity is something we do not take for granted; we make it a point of trying to achieve our targets each and every year for the various sections of the corporations so that together we all rise our standards and productivity”, he added. In 2017, STIDC was awarded the Champion Cup for government agencies category and this year it has also passed the ISO 9001:2015 Audit conducted by Intertek. Earlier this year also, the ENF 13 and DCOUNT ’10 teams were awarded gold for Team Excellence in the LEAN programme while LEANDONE team managed silver. As for the Accountability Index (AI), STIDC received 5 Stars from the Malaysian Audit Department while also being one of

the first Sarawak agency to achieve the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) for Corporate (Tier 1), Division and Section (Tier 2) and Individual (Tier 3). In the KIK programme, STIDC’s MICRO-Q managed gold placing in 2018 at the Team Excellence convention in Miri while over the years many other teams from STIDC had also received gold and silver awards in the same programme. In the recently launched (2001) Key Focus Activity category, the Prevention and Enforcement Division had earlier this year migrated into the digital era in its activities. As can be seen from its website, STIDC has achieved Excellence category 5 since 2015 from the State Government for this programme. With a highly dedicated team to keep the ball rolling, it’s easy to see how deserving it is for STIDC to win all these accolades. Surely for many more years to come, we will see STIDC bagging more awards and recognitions to add to its list of awards.

For more information, contact the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) at Wisma Sumber Alam, Jalan Stadium, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, +6082 473 000, +6082 441 169 / 442 691, Sarawak. www.sarawaktimber.gov.my

Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 9

STIDC In addition to these products, the exhibition of Sarawak’s timber industry and its exponential growth is also revealed. Here, you can learn about the unique composition of the rainforest trees and how they are processed into Plywood, Sawn Timber, Laminated board, Woodchip and Veneer for export. You also learn about the modern approaches and current strategy to minimise deforestation in favour of using alternative renewable resources. Endemic to Borneo is the Belian hardwood, also known as Bornean Ironwood. It has been banned from further export due to its rarity. In the past, it was sold widely to many neighbouring Asian countries. Due to its excellent inherent resistance to bacteria, insect and mollusc

STIDC’s Timber Museum showcases Sarawak’s relationship with the rainforest

illions of travellers fly in to visit Sarawak. Of all the various attractions and landmarks that give the State its unique charm, the splendid rainforest is the cornerstone of Sarawak’s development and top reasons for travelling here. However, if you do not have the time to visit the rainforest or a national park due to time constraints consider visiting Kuching’s Timber Museum. Originally developed in 1987 by the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC), also known as Pusaka, Kuching’s Timber Museum gives guests a brief tour and insight into the rainforest. Located inside Wisma Sumber Alam in Petra Jaya, you can find a collection of artefacts and products made from the exotic and varied tree species in the forest. The spacious halls are lined with items from different eras and for different purposes. If a painting tells a thousand words, the display tells a story of many lives spread over many generations. The expert craftsmanship relay what these tools were used for and by whom. They reflect the culture and deep respect for the rainforest for its constant supply of natural resources.

attacks, Belian is an incredibly versatile material that is used to build ports and ships. Talismans made from it are used by native communities to ward off tigers and elephants. These are just some of the interesting facts about Sarawak’s timber industry and the species used. Find out more for yourself next time you’re in Kuching! The museum is open from Mondays to Fridays, between 8.30am and 4pm and is closed on weekends and public holidays.

For more information about tours and activities within the museum, call +6082 473 000 or email stidc@pusaka.gov.my.

Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) Wisma Sumber Alam, Jalan Stadium, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, P.O. Box 194, 93702 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. 10 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

+6082 473 000 +6082 441 169 , 442 691 www.sarawaktimber.gov.my

STIDC can check on the entire State’s forest reserves as well as detecting illegal logging activities in the event that such cases are being reported.

Leveraging on digital technology the STIDC way forward

With the application of digital technology, STIDC has vastly expanded its reach to the world and to better inform on the timber industry’s growth and development in Sarawak. As an example, from its website, STIDC is able to provide information on the timber industry’s guiding principles, productivity and many other needs to consumers, interest groups and similar industries worldwide. In this competitive world, every advantage is of importance in securing clients as well as assuring the world that the timber industry in Sarawak is based on a sustainable model widely recognised by leading organisations.

he timber industry in Sarawak is one of the most dynamic and innovative towards achieving success, be it in trade, products, quality of services and sustainability practices. In fact, this drive for success was one of the guiding principles in the setting up of the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) 45 years ago. As a responsible agency, STIDC set the standards for the timber industry since its inception and the industry today is still a leading contributor to the state’s GNP. “As 2018 is our 45th Anniversary, we have also embarked on the digital era by incorporating digital technology in our industry,” said Haji Hashim Bojet, Acting General Manager. “Our tag line, ‘Leveraging on digital technology in the advancement of timber industry’ is descriptive of where we are in this digital age and how we have adopted technology in our industry. Currently, digital technology is in almost every aspect of our work within the industry, from sharing information to showcasing products from the industry and all the way to prevention and protection of our forests,” he added. With real time analysis possible from remote sensing for example, STIDC

Sarawak has made digital technology one of the core drivers for the State’s economy for the years to come to bring development and wealth to the people here. By incorporating digital technology in almost every aspect of governmental machinery in Sarawak, the Government is providing a platform for the people to embrace technology in line with the new era. STIDC is well ahead of the pack in leveraging digital technology to advance the timber industry into the new era.

For more information, contact the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) at Wisma Sumber Alam, Jalan Stadium, Petra +6082 473 000, Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 441 169 / 442 691, www.sarawaktimber.gov.my

Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 11

STIDC

industry. In addition STIDC, is venturing with different partners to develop uses for other timber resources like acacia timber from planted forest for furniture industry and in future many more valued added products can be produced and exported.

Prioritising usage of local timber products

he timber industry in Sarawak is the fourth largest revenue earner for the State and will continue to do so for many years ahead. According to Tuan Haji Hashim Bojet, Acting General Manager, STIDC, this is due mainly to the sustainable practices, which had been put in place in the State by the State Government of Sarawak. Haji Hashim Bojet says this in conjunction with Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) 45th Anniversary celebration this year. “Previously, our main exports were timber logs which now have converted to finished and semi-finished products as they bring in more revenue to the State. The timber industry also created jobs including expertise in various fields of wood-based industries. The log quota export policy which encourages local processing was able to increase the State’s export revenue. This is one of the State Government initiatives to further develop the timber

12 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

To further promote wood based utilisation from the State, STIDC organised a seminar to highlight the potential of timber products to the construction industry in the state in 2018. The objectives of this seminar are to provide the construction industry with the necessary information and knowledge of these products and their potential for utilisation especially in construction and areas like wall panels, floor tiling and even ceiling and cabinets for homes and offices. More importantly, the utilisation of more woodbased products from domestic industries will boost the development of more downstream activities and spur further the development of wood-based industry in the State. Amongst the topics presented at the seminar were ‘Sustaining growth of timber industry in Sarawak’, ‘Conservation of historical structures in Sarawak’, ‘Guidance to designers and architects in choosing wood products as construction components’, ‘Timber for structural construction in Malaysia’, ‘Demystifying wood as sustainable construction material’, ‘Treatments and testing of woods for enhanced engineering properties’, ‘Optimising utilisation of planted timber through lamination and preservative treatment’ and ‘Laminated Acacia veneer lumber properties’.

STIDC

d’Galeri PUSAKA showcases superb Sarawak furniture

rom benches and coffee tables to TV cabinets and bookshelves, d’Galeri PUSAKA offers high quality furniture made locally. The gallery was established in the early 2000s by Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) as part of its Vendor Development Programme, which helps Bumiputera furniture vendors to better promote and market their furniture locally and outside of Sarawak. Located at Jalan Kulas in Satok, Kuching, the expansive furniture gallery showcases everything from the simplest side table to the most intricately designed high end dining set. All the furniture displayed at the gallery are made by Bumiputera furniture makers under the Vendor Development Programme. Customers can expect to find a piece of furniture that will fit their taste and budget, and be rest assured that each piece is of very good quality. A prominent feature at d’Galeri PUSAKA is the House of Acacia section, where beautiful pieces made from exceptional quality Acacia wood are displayed. Acacia Mangium is the way forward, with the species being sustainably cultivated in Sarawak’s planted forests. Acacia Mangium can be

harvested after just seven years and replanted to ensure a steady supply of sustainable timber. House of Acacia, a collaborative effort between STIDC and Samling Group of Companies, was first introduced in 2013, at the Sarawak Grand Timber Expo 2013 and SMEs Expo 2013. An elaborate display was set up at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) during the expo, where visitors had the opportunity to view Acacia furniture in different designs. The display became an instant hit and furniture from House of Acacia have since been bought and used in homes locally and abroad. d’Galeri PUSAKA’s House of Acacia section features bedroom and dining room sets, tables and chairs, solid wood doors, wooden flooring and cabinets that are not only nice to look at, but also made to last. An added advantage at d’Galeri PUSAKA is that customers can have their furniture custom-made by any of the gallery’s vendors for something that’s truly unique and personal.

For more information, contact the d’Galeri PUSAKA at Jalan Kulas Satok, 93400 Kuching, +6082 250 796, +6082 250 793, Sarawak. salbiam1@pusaka.gov.my (Opening hours: 10am to 6pm from Tuesday to Sunday and close on Monday) Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 13

STIDC

Planted forests maximise yield, minimise ecological impact

management so as to minimise impacts on the environment. The target of the project is to establish Acacia mangium plantation. A holistic and integrated management approach has been applied to ensure a balance between economic, social and ecological objectives is maintained. These objectives are also indirectly essential for achieving environmental standards and certification requirements.

areas can support and contribute to biodiversity conservation by creating forest linkages outside of Totally Protected Areas.

The conservation programme in the planted forest project includes biodiversity surveys and identification of High Conservation Value Areas (HCVAs) and High Conservation Values (HCVs) in collaboration or partnership with local and international researchers, to set aside key areas for biodiversity and landscape conservation.

n a move to ensure sustainable supply of high quality wood for local downstream timberbased industries, the State Government has embarked on planted forests in Sarawak in 1997. The project is implemented via a joint venture with the private sector in realisation of the State Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aspiration to plant over 500,000 hectares of planted forests by 2020, emphasising on fast growing tree species including Acacia mangium, to reduce the Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dependency on natural forest timber.

SPF was tasked by the State Government to manage the project in the Planted Forest Zone (PFZ) in Bintulu. The project area, grossing over 430,000ha, with over 220,000ha of plantable area has been earmarked to sustainably supply wood to the downstream processing industry, including pulp mills.

Sarawak Planted Forest Sdn Bhd (SPF) has been established in 2008 by the State Government to spearhead this effort. With a vision to be a world leader in sustainable tropical planted forest, SPF adopts the best practise in planted forest

Large-scale Industrial Tree Plantation (ITP) and other land development projects alike in Sarawak can significantly contribute towards biodiversity conservation through proper planning and continuous management. These developed Three main areas namely Binyo Penyilam, Bukit Sarang (both have been proposed as National Parks) and Bukit Mina Wildlife Corridor have been identified as key HCVAs for SPFP. Bukit Mina Wildlife Corridor, being the largest contiguous corridor in Sarawak was designed to accommodate wildlife conservation in SPFP. These three areas are preserved not only for conservation of Rare, Threatened and Endangered (RTE) species of flora and fauna but also for their unique landscape.

For more information, contact the Sarawak Planted Forest Sdn Bhd at 8th Floor, Bangunan Wisma Sumber Alam, Jalan Stadium, Petra Jaya 93660 Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 319 287, +6082 319 126 14 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

STIDC

STIDC CSR contribute back to the rakyat

very society has special groups that need attention and assistance to provide them the tools and personnel to carry out their work. For Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC), much monetary assistance has been given to many organisations in the State including Non-Profit Organisations for the past 36 years, as part of its Community Social Responsibility (CSR) activities. “STIDC’s main mission is to spearhead the advancement of the timber industry in Sarawak, but we are also fully supportive of many NGOs, which require assistance from agencies like us,” said STIDC’s Haji Hashim Bojet, Acting General Manager. According to him, STIDC provided RM276,000 to 61 NGOs in the State in 2018 as part of their CSR initiatives for the year. The special assistance to these NGOs enabled many hard core poor communities to take care of young children and the aged while also

providing other needs to those that require medical assistance. “We will always try our best to provide aid when called upon, especially for special cases and organisations that have proven to be sincere and honest in their endeavour. The rapid pace of change in our society as well as development leave many people behind as they are unable to cope with these changes due to variety of reasons, including mental and physical disabilities,” he added. Another major contribution from STIDC is to the education fund, especially rural schools in collaboration with the Sarawak Timber Association (STA). From 2012 to 2017, more than RM900,000 had been contributed to 454 primary and 84 secondary schools throughout the State. Additionally, a brand new school was constructed in Betong Division with contributions from STIDC, STA amounting to RM173,000 after the old school was destroyed by landslide.

For more information, contact the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) at Wisma +6082 473 000, +6082 441 169 / 442 691, Sumber Alam, Jalan Stadium, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak. www.sarawaktimber.gov.my Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 15

STIDC

TMP poised to become trade hub for the Central Region

anjung Manis Integrated Port Sdn Bhd (TMP) commences its official operation on July 1 catering for ocean-borne containerised trade and other general cargo. It also manages the Oil, Gas & Chemical (OGC) Jetty, as well as loading and unloading activities at Tanjung Manis Anchorages (timber logs, sawn timber and coal). To mitigate congestion at TMP, the company expanded its 200-metre wharf by another 100 metres to make room for up to three vessels at any one time. The refurbishment project was completed on Oct 31, 2015 allowing an increased cargo capacity from 45,000 TEUs to 230,000 TEUs. Following the refurbishment exercise, the port now boasts an additional 100-metre wharf, a new workshop, a weighbridge, new administration building and a new container yard.

OGC Jetty operation on Nov 1. Later that year on Nov 14, the OGC jetty had its first maiden call for the vessel â&#x20AC;&#x153;Semua Selamatâ&#x20AC;?. In 2009 Tmp handled about 5,000 teus containerised cargo and significantly increased to more than 60,000 teus in 2017. Two years later on Jan 1, 2015, the Integrated Port Management System was implemented, while March 22, 2016 saw another maiden call, this time for the Evergreen vessel Cape Fawley, marking its capability as the main trade gateway for the region.

The port utilises a 24-hour and 7 days a week (24/7) Trade Gateway System and is capable of handling up to 30 moves per hour with a turnaround time of 6.9 hours. Since its operation, TMP has had numerous achievements, including its first container vessel call (Selatan Makmur) on Aug 4, 2009, followed by the commencement of the

OGC Jetty handles Bulk Fuel Oil, Oil Palm and Butimen

PORT GLOBAL CONNECTIVITY Evergreen Line +603 7883 2600 MTT Shipping +6084 337 305 Pacific Selatan Agency +6084 317 937

Container handling operation at TMP

TMP has been accredited the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code Compliance on Jan 18, 2011. The company also received the OHSAS 18001:2007 OHS MS Certification from SIRIM on July 20, 2012 MS ISO 9001:2008 QMS on Feb 28, 2014 and later upgraded to MS ISO 9001:2015 QMS by SIRIM on Jan 28, 2017. Puan Hajjah Sadiah Tu, the Executive Director of Tanjung Manis Intergrated Port Sdn Bhd states that, with continued growth of TMP and its hinterland, it is poised to be the agent of transformation for Tanjung Manis and is set to be globally recognised as a Port of Choice for Sarawak Central Region.

pklsup@evergreen-marine.com.my mttbtubiz@mttshipping.com.my import.sbw@sarawak.psa.my

PORT FACILITIES Berth Length : 303m Number Of Berth : 2 Draft Alongside : 11m Storage Capacity : 230,000 TEUs -

Turnaround Time 6.9hrs 30 Moves per Hour 24hrs Operation Trade Gateway System 24/7

For more information, contact the Tanjung Manis Integrated Port Sdn. Bhd. (TMP) at Bandar Baru, Tanjung Manis, +6084 613 010, +6084 613 012, www.tmport.com.my 96150 Tanjung Manis, Sarawak. Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 17

COE

Calendar of events OCTOBER to DECEMBER 2018 OCTOBER

Sept29 » Oct28 WHAT ABOUT KUCHING (WAK) 2018 Various locations, Kuching

To celebrate this city’s abundant yet distinct charm, the local community has come together to present What About Kuching 2018, a tribute to the spirit of Kuching. This month-long festival is where the arts, culture and lifestyle of Kuching take centre stage. +6082 414 326

Alliance for Healthy Cities (AFHC) Conference 2018 Pullman Kuching, Kuching

The AFHC Conference is a biennial event that sees policy makers, planners, academics, NGOs and individuals exchanging ideas on how to better manage and run cities to ensure that all three dimensions of sustainability (social, economic, and physical environment) are properly managed in order to promote the health and wellbeing of the citizens. Alliance for Healthy Cities

SARAWAK INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT REGATTA (SIDBR) 2018

5 »7

Pesta Sematan

Sematan Town Square, Lundu

This is a community-based event highlighting traditional sports, food and arts held at the seaside bazaar of Sematan Town. A fine tradition of the area is the Gendang Melayu ensemble accompanied by singing and the joget dance. +6082 735 001

N OV E M B E R

26 » 28

The Hub Kuching

Lundu District Office

17 » 20

Kuching Waterfront, Kuching

The Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta is an internationally recognised event that takes place on the Sarawak River. Local as well as foreign teams will compete in various race categories in their bid to win cash money and trophy. This challenge is an affiliate event of the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF).

SARAWAK REGATTA 2018

+6082 735 599

Kuching Waterfront

5 »7

Held annually since 1872, Sarawak Regatta today prides itself in being the oldest water sports event in Sarawak. Activities such as boat race, cultural show, food and trade fair will be held during the regatta.

HARI BUKIT MAS

Taman Tasik Mas & Dataran Jubli Emas, Limbang

Kuching Resident Office

+6082 507 051

Three days of fun-filled celebration with karaoke contest, drawing and colouring contest, fishing competition, health screening and blood donation, waste material fashion competition, remote control boating, Mr. Wonderful and bodybuilder as well as a cultural night.

+6082 507 063

9 » 11

SIOL International Mountain Bike Challenge (SIMBC) 2018

Limbang District Council

+6085 211 288

2 »4

+6085 212 577

Bukit Siol, Kuching

Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports

+6082 319 313

+6082 445 311

Kuching north city hall (DBKU)

Borneo Highlands Padawan Nature Challenge Borneo Highlands Resort, Kuching

This is a cycling and trekking adventure with different categories for experts, amateurs and those who love nature and the environment. The challenge gives nature lovers and adventurers the opportunity to be close to Mother Nature and experience the nature and adventure aspects of Padawan. Borneo Highlands Resort & Padawan Municipal Council

+6082 577 920

The SIOL International Mountain Bike Challenge is an annual cycling competition that involves participation from both local and foreign mountain biking enthusiasts. From a humble beginning in 2003, when it was known as Siol Mountain Bike Challenge, the event improved in terms of its organising in 2014 and 2015, and eventually debuted as an international cycling challenge in 2016.

+6082 576 680

+6082 446 688

+6082 447 988

10 » 11

Pesta Tanah Lumpur Berbuak Kampung Meritam, Limbang

It’s a unique festival centred around an unusual phenomena where the mud found in Kampung Meritam is similar to that found near volcanoes, even though Limbang does not have a single volcano. There will be sports and games, cultural performance, buffalo decorating contests, singing competition and other activities. Limbang District Council

+6085 211 288

+6085 212 577

14 » 16

SARAWAK ADVENTURE CHALLENGE (SAC) 2018

Asia-Europe Museum General Conference (ASEMUS) 2018 Kuching

Sarawak is calling you! The Sarawak Adventure Challenge is a one-day multi-sport adventure race showcasing some of the best rainforests, rivers and caves of Western Borneo.

The conference themed “New Curatorial Perspectives for a Changed World” will see participants from across Asia and Europe taking part in workshops, masterclasses, panels and case study presentations. The last day will be on the discovery of Sarawak and Borneo’s cultural and natural heritage.

Draco Action Sports

Sarawak Museum Department

Kuching

+6082 238 801

+6082 231 808

18 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

+6082 244 232

+6082 246 680

COE

14 » 16

10TH CLEAN AIR ASIA BETTER AIR QUALITY CONFERENCE (BAQ) 2018 BCCK, Kuching

Clean Air Asia and the Clean Air Forum Society of Malaysia will convene the biennial event at the Sarawak Convention and Exhibition Centre, where at least 600 policymakers, practitioners and industry leaders will gather to develop solutions for cleaner air and liveable cities. Clean Air Asia (MyCAS)

+609 6683 972

+609 6683 991

Sarawak International Similajau Nature Challenge Similajau National Park, Bintulu

Last held in 2015, the challenge aims to promote Similajau National Park as the primary tourism destination in Bintulu. Besides vying for the exciting prizes offered, participants will have the opportunity to experience the unspoilt nature within the national park. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports

+6082 319 313

+6082 445 311

MIRI CITY CHRISTMAS PARADE

15 » 18

Miri City Fan, Miri

This joyous event is a combined effort of all churches in Miri and Miri City Council to celebrate the festive occasion. The aim is for the Christmas parade to be promoted as one of the signature events in Miri.

PESTA TELAGA AIR 2018 Kampung Telaga Air, Kuching

Pesta Telaga Air is a community based event which aims to attract both local and outside visitors to the small village of Telaga Air. Among activities which will be held during the festival is Telaga Air Nature Challenge, various water sports competitions, fishing competition, seafood cooking competition, and also activities for young children.

Miri City Council

Padawan Municipal Council

SIBU BIG BIKE WEEK

+6082 615 566

+6085 433 501

+6085 430 914

7 »9

+6082 611 832

Sibu Phase 2, Sibu

The Sibu Big Bike Week is a gathering of big bikers and enthusiasts who are into high-powered motorbikes as well as cars and anything related to automotive. Razz Chopper Motor Club

+6084 333 411

23 » 24

Borneo Talent Award Sibu Civic Centre, Sibu

The award recognises talents of all ages, from various disciplines including singing, dancing, playing musical instruments, acrobatics, pantomime, mimic or performing arts. Sibu Municipal Council

+6084 333 411

+6084 320 240

24 » Dec2

Sarikei Pineapple and Fruits Festival 2018

+6084 320 240

DECEMBER Christmas Tree Decoration Competition Sibu Town Square, Sibu

Sibu Town Square comes alive with a festive mood, as contestants step up with their best ideas for the Christmas Tree Decoration Competition this December. A seasonal festive event that has become a significant tourist attraction, the competition will have its winner named at the end of the year. Sibu Municipal Council

+6084 333 411

+6084 320 240

Year End Countdown Sibu Town Square, Sibu

This year’s countdown to 2019 will be a grand event that ushers in a brand new year. There will be colourful stage performances and most importantly, spectacular fireworks display. Sibu Municipal Council

+6084 333 411

+6084 320 240

Sarikei, Sarawak

The festival showcases Sarikei’s famous pineapples and other agriculture produce, besides offering side events and competitions as well. Sarikei Resident Office

+6084 655 423

+6084 653 204

24 » Dec5

Sarawak Borneo Cross Country Rally 2018

Kota Kinabalu - Labuan - Brunei - Miri - Bintulu Sibu - Kuching - Pontianak - Singkawang - Kuching

This 12-day and 11-night motorcycle rally crosses borders between Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia, with participants riding across Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, through Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei, Miri, Bintulu, Sibu and Kuching in Sarawak, Pontianak and Singkawang in Indonesia and ending in Kuching. With a base limit of 250 CC engines and above, of mixed brands, the motorcycle rally is estimated to bring together some 200 foreign and local big bikers this year. Unides Events

+6013 391 3388

Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports +6082 319 309 / 313 +6082 441 277 / 5311 www.mtacys.sarawak.gov.my

Sarawak Tourism Board +6082 423 600 www.sarawaktourism.com

(Note: Event dates are subject to change without prior notice. Kindly call The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports for further information) Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 19

Breakaway from routine to a getaway to

SAMALAJU RESORT HOTEL

amalaju Resort Hotel sits strategically in the heart of Samalaju Industrial Park in a characteristic, cosy and peaceful enclave. It overlooks the gorgeous views of the South China Sea and Samalaju National Park, In a moment of quiet reflection, admire a scene that lives in your memory forever.

PRO MOT IO N

Samalaju Resort Hotel is an ideal venue or business trip or leisurely breaks for both short-term and long-term stays. The 23-acre seaside sanctuary boasts 175 spacious and contemporary rooms consisting 148 units of hotel guests rooms and 27 units of chalet. Great service, supreme comfort and well appointed with quality materials and finishes. All en-suite bedrooms are equipped with individual air-conditioning, 32-inch television, IDD call, mini bar, toiletries and free wi-fi. The chalets are perfect for families and friends. Featuring modern design and comes complete with living room and kitchenette. Enjoy a range of facilities you can admire the breath-taking sunset, a karaoke lounge, and gymnasium, board game, and movies at the coffee house. Excellent choices of local and international cuisines are available.

PLEASE SCAN ME

Lot 132, Block 1, Kemena Land District, Samalaju Industrial park, 97000 Bintulu Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: +60 86 291 999 Fax: +60 86 291 888 Email: enquiries@samalajuresorthotel.com

EAT ALL YOU CAN! *Price inclusive of 6% Service Tax *Terms & conditions apply

Events

Sept 29 - Oct 28, 2018

What about Kuching? Get in on the conversation!

et ready for ‘What About Kuching’ (WAK), the month-long showcase in October that focuses on the creative, sometimes undiscovered, lives of Kuching’s communities.

WAK 2018 is all about conversations between old friends and new, shimmering talent and appreciative audiences, collaborators and business owners, venue providers and content creators, State Government, sponsors, supporters, artisans and enthusiasts across Sarawak. With a range of activities from art, music, dance, theatre, photography, to all things creatively Sarawak, there will be something for every enthusiastic resident and lucky visitor to see, do and become part of the conversation. WAK 2017 was the beginning of this innovative, exciting new festival format, drawing out, and proudly placing centre stage, the natural talents constantly at work and play in Kuching. This year, WAK looks set to be even bigger. With over 75 events scheduled, we can clearly see the unique spirit of collaboration that WAK seems to inspire. Last year, poets met illustrators, storytellers met dancers, fashion designers met

Courtesy of SARAWAK TOURISM Board

photographers. Those connections have continued to evolve, adding even more events and relationships for 2018. This is truly a festival by the community for the community with live music along the waterfront, fly yoga on the new Darul Hana bridge spanning the Sarawak river, tattoo art exhibitions in the Old Courthouse, a guided stroll around a heritage property, parties in the streets, poetry, comedy, food expeditions, social media and dance spilling out of virtually every nook around town. Kuching is poised to explode with creativity. From passionate amateurs to aspiring artisans, trained professionals to invited guest performers, local residents will discover a different side to old friends, exhibiting talents they might never have known about and visitors will get to see what makes Kuching so special. WAK is all about family. One big, beautiful family. WAK 2018 is being created by real Kuching talent across the spectrum. If you love Kuching and are already making the most of it; if you live in Kuching and still feel there is more to discover; if you are visiting Kuching and want to know what it is all about, then you’re going to love ‘What About Kuching 2018’. Come for one event or for all! You are invited to be part of this conversation that looks set to last for a lifetime!

For further info, connect with us on: @aboutkuching info@aboutkuching.com aboutkuching.com. WAK2018Calendar

Scan me with your mobile phone / tablet!

+6082 423 600

www.sarawaktourism.com Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 21

Events

he small town of Siniawan is famous for its 100 plus year-old shops, which have stood the test of time to this very day. Last year, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports Sarawak, Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah announced the Ministry’s plan to place the 18th century wooden shops among the State’s precious heritage sites. To help promote the town and its century-old legacy, a festival aptly called Pesta Siniawan (Siniawan Festival) was initiated on Sept 15, 2016 and held until Sept 18. It turned out to be a huge success. Thousands of people crowded the venue within the complex where the old wooden shops were, partaking in various activities held besides savouring delicious festival food. And they were not only local folks, but foreign tourists as well. With the success of the inaugural Pesta Siniawan, the festival was held again last year, bigger and better, with more fun, excitement and joy for everyone that attended. This year, get ready for another round of Pesta Siniawan, which will take place from Oct 4 to 14, 2018. That means more time for you to enjoy all that the festival has to offer.

The venue will come alive with plenty of activities for the sea of festivalgoers to enjoy. Highlights will be the crowdpulling Cowboy Night, cultural and traditional dance, lion dance competition, visit to the Rajah Brooke Heritage and traditional street games. The charm of the 100 plus year-old shops, accentuated with strings of Chinese lanterns hung in a zigzag pattern between them, is what attracts visitors to the festival the most. With tables and chairs laid out along the old street between the shops, you can sit down and admire the stunning sights while enjoying sumptuous street food with your family or friends. A trip to Pesta Siniawan is guaranteed to be a memorable one.

Come celebrate a century-old legacy Pesta Siniawan 2018 • October 4 – 14, 2018 • Siniawan, Bau

Courtesy of SARAWAK TOURISM Board

+6082 423 600

www.sarawaktourism.com Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 23

Professional Conference Organiser / Event Management Company :

Events

A Breath of Not-SoFresh Air by A.M. Ishraq

oes the quality of air we breathe in, the invisible source of life that we need to survive, really matter? The World Health Organisation (WHO) has touted air quality as “the world’s largest single environmental health risk”, with nine out of ten of us breathing in polluted air every single day! This burden costs 7 million premature deaths a year, all of them in poor countries in Asia and Africa. The main causes of death related to air quality are primarily non-communicable diseases such as stroke, heart disease and lung cancer. Recent research has also uncovered that even low levels of air pollution may damage heart and cause long term damaging effects such as potential birth defects, higher risk of breast cancer and diabetes, nerve, kidney and brain damage. Air quality not only affects humans but also animal and plants, as a Harvard study finds that increasing levels of carbon dioxide in the air results in lower quality crops and animals reared for food. The study says that staple crops like rice and wheat will become less nutritious for us and could result in protein and zinc deficiency in the future.

In a mid-2018 air pollution index comparison, Malaysia ranked 45th out of 102 countries worldwide and ranked 26th out of 37 Asian countries. Even with recent bouts of haze, we are lucky as Sarawak’s air quality remains fairly good. However, with ever-increasing air quality issues, how do we increase public awareness and find solutions to improve or maintain air quality? “Sarawak

actually takes air quality seriously, with the

government bringing in the 10th Better Air Quality Conference, Asia’s leading event on air quality, happening this year in November. The conference focusses on transformative action and technological innovation in Asia for clean air and liveable cities, and it will be a great platform for knowledge exchange and for government policies to be discussed and even created. We believe it is important that the 10th BAQ results in actionable items for policy makers, enforcement officers, researchers and other air quality action maker,” said Mona Abdul Manap, local Professional Conference Organiser and CEO of Place Borneo Sdn Bhd. Government level solutions by WHO that may help with air quality are investing in energy-efficient power generation, improving public transport system and pedestrian and cycle-friendly networks to encourage less car usage, providing universal access to clean, affordable fuels and technologies and reducing agriculture waste incineration, forest fires and certain agro-forestry activities. Policies and investments supporting these efforts can effectively reduce key sources of air pollution. Indoor air quality can also be a health concern. For those of us at home, air conditioners, air filters and kitchen cooker hoods are commonly used to clean indoor air. These appliances have filters that need to be regularly cleaned or replaced to ensure its effectiveness, which many people fail to do. Plus, ensuring good ventilation and even having potted plants around can further help to increase air quality. Common household plants such as snake plant, money plant, Boston fern, peace lily and philodendron are all proven to filter and clean the air in our homes. Bizarrely enough, there is even a trend of canned coldpressed ‘luxury air’ from countries such as Sweden being successfully sold online to people living in polluted cities who wish to improve their health with fresh mountain air. In all seriousness, it is vital that we seek effective solutions to ensure that our air pollution level remains low for the sake of public and environmental health so that we may continue to breathe fresh air in the Land of the Hornbills.

Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 25

Great service, spotless rooms, and amazing prices at Dorset Looking for a quick getaway, or on a last-minute business trip? Dorset Boutique Hotel has unbeatable prices and is replete with top class amenities. Enjoy wifi throughout the hotel to stay in touch with social media or emails. Speaking in Malay, English and Chinese, all are welcome. Booking is simple and safe - go online or make a quick call and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be on your way to enjoy Kuching without a sweat.

Book now for leisure and relaxation. Welcome to an award-winning hotel with top of the range amenities to maximise comfort. Located in the Heart of Sibu, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re right where you need to be for convenience and ease of access.

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Lot 277, Block 5, Jalan Kampung Nyabor, P.O. Box 240 96007 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: +6084 333188 Fax: +6084 333288 Email: info@tanahmas.com.my www.tanahmas.com.my

No. 175, 175A-C, Jalan Sekama, 93300 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. T: +6082 347 799 F: +6082 346 799 E: reservations@dorsetboutiquehotel.com

Online booking, log on to www.dorsetboutiquehotel.com

Events

Rotary, OCBC to hold charity run OCBC Rotary Run 2018 Oct 14, 2018 • MBKS Kuching

The run is a major fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Kuching, aimed at raising in excess of RM200,000 to fund the club’s community service projects for the Rotary year 2018-2019. The projects include KAS-Rotary-NKF Dialysis Centre - where there is currently a waiting list of 200 patients, and the setting up of another Dialysis Centre, which will be located at Kota Samarahan. Another project is a medical outreach to the most remote parts of Sarawak, where the club sends a team consisting of volunteer doctors, dentists and nurses on a regular basis to provide medical care on site or to transport those who are very sick to the nearest medical facilities when necessary. Tuition programmes for rural kids will be conducted by volunteer teachers and financial assistance will also be offered to rural folks.

otary Club of Kuching together with OCBC Kuching Branch will be holding the OCBC Rotary Run 2018, in collaboration with Tentera Darat Malaysia. Scheduled for 6am at MBKS on Oct 14, 2018, the OCBC Rotary Run 2018 will be themed “Run With The Army 2.0”, the second series of collaboration with the Army and the third year of partnership with OCBC. The distance will cover 3km for the Family Run and 10km for the Army Obstacle Challenge, with marshaling by the City Joggers Club. The charity run will also include an exhibition by the Army.

In addition to the above, the Rotary Club of Kuching plans to embark on a project to provide new source of clean water to four villages in Sibu Division. With an estimated cost of RM300,000, the project will ensure that the 2,500 (approx.) villagers no longer have to rely on rainfall and untreated river water for their daily use. Last year, the run attracted more than 2,000 participants and raised over RM200,000 for the club’s various community projects. Organised & supported by:

Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 27

Inspired, Elegant, Bold Waterfront Hotel â&#x20AC;˘ Artrageous

A famous landmark sits in the heart of the city where tradition meets in contemporary style. Furnished with the grandest amenities and tip-top services maximum satisfaction for every guests is a guarantee. Surrounded with amazing views of the Sarawak River and the Darul Hana Bridge, The Waterfront Hotel offers all guests the most beautiful scenic experience in Kuching.

The Waterfront Hotel

68, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Online booking at www.thewaterfrontkuching.com or contact +6082 227 227

Events

ow here’s something very interesting. In conjunction with the World Architecture Day 2018 celebration, Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia Sarawak Chapter (PAMSC) and co-organiser, INTODESIGN Lab, are organising the Cardboard City Challenge with support from BorneoTalk. It’s an interesting concept, which brings together students from various educational institutions in an effort to design and build an imaginary city of the future out of cardboards and masking tapes.

A follow up to last year’s successful event, this year’s Cardboard City Challenge will involve a total of 300 children from 15 primary schools. The city challenge this year will be themed “Re-imagining the Future” and is aimed at introducing 21st century skills through constructing play, using cardboards of course. The challenge will inspire the participating children to see things with an open mind, find ways to solve different sets of problems, think more creatively and work together with others towards a common goal. Social impacts include improving learning environment by setting up 21 mock-up classrooms for participating public schools, as well as community engagement involving volunteers, NGOs and industrial related companies. The challenge will also encourage transfer of knowledge whereby volunteering design and architecture students will guide

Creativity unleashed Cardboard City Challenge 2018 October 20-21, 2018 • Kompleks Belia & Sukan Negeri Sarawak, Kuching

the participants throughout the installation process at the event, and exploration through global platform by participating in the Global Cardboard Challenge organised by the Imagination Foundation. This year’s event will include the launching of The Cardboard Pavilion competition (open category). Participants will be tasked to design a pavilion in which children will be able to partake in creative learning activities. It is aimed at inspiring the children through an architecture spatial experience. Five finalists will be given the opportunity to install a habitable space of 2.4m x 2.4m within the Cardboard City. The Cardboard City Challenge exhibition and play day, themed Re-Imagining The Future, will be held from Oct 20-21, beginning 10am until 6pm at the Kompleks Belia & Sukan Negeri Sarawak. The opening ceremony will be held from 9am to 10am on Oct 20 at the same venue.

Come on over for a weekend of fun and play, with kids arts & crafts, storytelling, kid science exploration, games and environmental awareness programmes. Entrance to the exhibition is FREE! Organised by:

Supported by:

Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 29

Events

Who to watch out for at Alta Moda Sarawak 2018 Alta Moda Sarawak October 25 to 27, 2018 • Old DUN, Kuching

uching will be the centre of attraction come October, with the debut of the glamorous fashion event Alta Moda Sarawak 2018. Created as a brand platform for Sarawak designers to come together to showcase their talents and creations in the field of arts, culture and crafts, Alta Moda Sarawak 2018 will take place from Oct 25 to 27 in Kuching. “Alta Moda” is Italian for “high fashion”, which will be the highlight at Alta Moda Sarawak 2018 as designers step up with their very best, most glamorous looks on the runway. Here’s a list of designers and fashion labels to be expected at Alta Moda Sarawak 2018:

Von Jolly Couture A luxury fashion house established by Dato’ Raymond Valentine Jolly and his nephew 30 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

Aaron George Von Jolly, Von Jolly Couture has taken Sarawakian designs to international runways and world stages. The multi-award winning luxury fashion house incorporates ethnic motifs into their designs to create stunning, one-of-a-kind haute couture pieces.

Pretty in White by Louisa Michael Pretty in White highlights designer Louisa Michael’s stunning bridal wear made with passion and a whole lotta love. Contemporary with a touch of classic, her wedding gowns are making a huge statement and even caught the attention of Miss International Malaysia 2016, Olivia Constance Nicholas. She wore a beautiful Pretty in White wedding dress with a record-setting train inspired by the wedding dress of the late Princess Diana.

Events

Papier Mâché Company Established in 2016, Papier Mâché Company offers lasting fragrance in the form of luxurious Eau De Parfums from Switzerland and France, handcrafted in Malaysia.

N’inspired by Pua Heritage A homegrown fashion brand that marries tradition with lux, N’inspired (Noraini’s inspiration) by Pua Heritage covers the Sensational, Unique, Legacy and Untold stories of culture and fusion fashion (S.U.L.U). Expect nothing less than high style from this formidable brand.

songket, incorporating the fabric into his casual and contemporary designs.

Gavroche by Arzmy A dressing of art and lifestyle of portraying modern day gentlemen – that’s Gavroche by Arzmy Hargreaves for you. The label is well known for its menswear encompassing suits, shirts and accessories for him.

Anna Sue Stylish and vibrant yet elegant and uber chic. No words can better describe the creations of homegrown fashion house Anna Sue, whose signature statement jewelleries and pret-a-porter streetwear line will make you the envy of everyone else.

Paul Carling Since it was founded in 2016, Paul Carling has been making waves with a collection of fashionable bridal wear, fusing modern mix wears and Borneo tribal motifs.

Lentera Astana For Lentera Astana, designer Christopher marries the intricate motifs of the Iban Pua Kumbu with modern inspirations, creating a line of fashion that stands out from the rest.

Bon Zainal Chic and sophisticated silhouette that portrays the styles of a gentleman. That has ever been what Bon Zainal is well known for. The brand incorporates art and cultural heritage in its designs, which are of the finest workmanship and quality.

Qeisha Qiani Unaffected modesty is the sweetest charm of excellence, the richest gem in the diadem of thy honour. Qeisha Qiani is a newly launched fashion label of modest wear by designer Hismudin and Von Jolly.

Bianco Mimosa Latip’s Collections Melanau influences are prominent in each of Latip’s Collections’ creations. The Mukah label’s RTW designs put great emphasis on the cultures and traditions of the Melanau ethnic group.

ANANNASA A fashion label launched by Sher in 2013, ANANNASA represents the designer’s love for pineapple (or “anannasa” in Hindi) and the Indian continent. Anannasa’s designs feature lovely prints and rich colours in relaxed, timeless styles.

Ben Nazry A force of fashion to be reckoned with, Ben Nazry has won multiple awards for his couture and bridal creations. A master of detail and elegance, he also works with

BIANCO MIMOSA is originated from Italian language which is Bianco means white and Mimosa is a Malaysian flower (The Touch-meNot flower). Founded by Dato’ Ida Suraya, BIANCO MIMOSA aims to be one of the leading brands in Malaysia and globally. The brand which is also known for their couture touch and imported high-end materials, caters from Ready-to-Wear to exclusive Made-to-Measure pieces.

NAJLA SHOES Malaysian-based footwear brand Najla that was first established in Kuala Lumpur in 2015 by Najla Sarbini, who’ve got an eye for fashion and a passion for shoes. Najla Shoes reflects a sense of sophistication and playing with bold and pop colors aesthetic but yet still focusing on the timeless design.

Catch them all at Alta Moda Sarawak 2018, from Oct 25 to 27 at the old Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) building in Petra Jaya, Kuching. Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 31

Events

Row to the beat of the drums! Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta 2018 October 26 - 28, 2018 Kuching Waterfront, Kuching

our hundred metres could be a leisurely walk along the road. It could be you dashing to catch a train, or the furthest you’re willing to go by foot to grab your favourite coffee in the city (or whatever your cup of tea is!). To most of us, the 400-metre distance is inconsequential. But for hundreds of athletes from Oct 26 - 28, 400m is what separates a champion from the rising talent. The Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta hits Kuching waterfront and will be greeted with crowds as far as the eye can see, thunderous cheering and enthusiastic applause. One of Sarawak’s most prestigious international competitions, the Dragon Boat Regatta has been running in Sarawak for more than 100 years. The prominent status of the event meant it was included as a competitive event for the 2010 ASEAN Games, a pan-Asian sports competition. Longboat racing is integral to Sarawak’s culture and is being celebrated annually. On average, nearly 1000 participants register to take part in Sarawak’s International Dragon Boat Regatta, with 80% of these being foreigners.

Courtesy of SARAWAK TOURISM Board 32 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

Dragon Boat racing is a popular Asian international sport and usually consists of 20 people paddling to power the longboat with a drummer to set the pace, who synchronises their drumming to the paddle strokes. Its origins can be traced back to South China over 2,500 years ago to remember the poet Qu Yuan. The Dragon Boat festival is normally celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, according to the Chinese calendar. Now, the racing aspect has picked up popularity like wildfire, with millions across Asia competing in various tournaments year round. And Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta is one of the biggest events in South East Asia! The event is organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports, Sarawak, affiliated by the International Dragon Boat Federation and supported by Sarawak Rivers Board, Kuching North City Commission as well as the Marine Operations Force of the Royal Malaysian Police. The categories include International Men’s Team 12’s, International Men’s Team 20’s, International Mix 12’s, International Mix 20’s, Sarawak Closed Race 20’s (Men only), Sarawak Closed Race 12’s (Men only), and International Junior Under 23 Open 12’s. At this international event, teams from more than 70 countries are expected to make an appearance. Previous competitions saw participants from the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Taiwan, and the Philippines amongst several other neighbouring and distant countries. With only weeks before this exciting event, the heat is on!

For more information, contact the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports at +6082 319 313 or visit www.mtacys.sarawak.gov.my or sarawakdragonboatregatta.weebly.com. +6082 423 600

www.sarawaktourism.com

Events

Sarawak Regatta where everybody is a winner

Sarawak regatta 2018 November 2 - 4, 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ Kuching Waterfront, Kuching

he highly anticipated Sarawak Regatta is back for its 29th edition. Scheduled for Nov 2-4, it is going to be thrilling, fun and joyful as the crowd flocks to the Kuching Waterfront to witness the mighty teams racing to the finish line. It all began in 1872 when Sir James Brooke, the White Rajah of Sarawak, initiated a peaceful sporting event to settle disputes among the natives, instead of resorting to war and violence. This resulted in unity among all parties, living harmoniously as one big family, as people of Sarawak.

never fail to draw cheer and laughter from the crowd as they witness the contestants putting their skills on show to win the contests. Expect side events like cultural shows, Sarawak Kitchen and sale of handicrafts throughout the duration of the festival. Local and international contestants and spectators will have the time of their lives and go home with fond memories of the festival. Come see the 29th Sarawak Regatta this November and you can be part of this great experience too.

The regatta highlights two longboat racing events namely perahu bidar (traditional native longboat) and perahu kenyalang (longboat with a hornbill head carving attached to the front). Both are participated by local and foreign rowers in women, men or mixed categories and consisting 15, 20 or 30 rowers. The champion team will be crowned Raja Sungai (King of the River) and take home handsome prizes. Other water events include the International Dragon Boat Race, Brooke Swim and Duck Catching competition. The Brooke Swim commemorates the time when Sir James Brooke swam across the Sarawak River from the Astana to escape rebels. Both the swim and Duck Catching events

Courtesy of SARAWAK TOURISM Board

For more information, contact Kuching Resident Office and Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth & Sports at +6082 507 051 / +6082 507 055. +6082 423 600

www.sarawaktourism.com Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 33

Events

Spotlight on non-timber forest products of Sarawak November 22 – 26, 2018 • Kuching Waterfront, Kuching

ntroduced in 2016, the Sarawak NonTimber Forest Products (NTFP) Carnival has attracted large numbers of visitors from all over the State and even from Sabah, West Malaysia and beyond. The carnival highlights a diversity of non-timber products including dried herbs, musical instruments like sape and gambus, local crafts made from bemban, rattan and bamboo, products made out of tree bark and clay, as well as beadwork, home décor and many more. Exhibitors taking part in the carnival will be coming from different

parts of Sarawak, each bringing to the table something distinctively their own. So it’s the perfect time to shop around for products you can only have access to if you travel outside of Kuching. Traditional costumes of the indigenous folks of Sarawak? You can find them at the carnival. Beauty and personal care products made from locally sourced ingredients? Those are available too! The Sarawak NTFP Carnival is an initiative of the Sarawak Forest Department, as part of its activities held under the “Human Capital Development Programme: Improvement of Standard of Living and Quality of Life of Heart of Borneo (HoB)” community project under the 11th Malaysia Plan. The carnival returns from Nov 22 to 26, entering its third edition this year and will be held at the Kuching Waterfront. Besides the exhibition on NTFPs, the carnival will include a series of activities for the public to partake in, such as free health check, karaoke competition and musical night as well. There will be entertainment by specially invited artistes and buskers, as well as a lucky draw with attractive prizes, adding to the merriment of the carnival.

For further inquiries, please contact Forest Department Sarawak, Bangunan Wisma Sumber, Alam, Jalan Stadium,Petra Jaya, 93660 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. +6082 442 180 +6082 441 210 www.forestry.sarawak.gov.my Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 35

Call for Papers and Posters APOC 13 with the theme

“Cultural Exchange through Orchid”

is now open for abstract submissions (oral or poster) on the following topics.

Topics for abstract submission: 1. Conservation/Taxonomy/Habitats/Tourism IMPORTANT DATES

2. Orchid Industry/Marketing/Post Harvest/ Orchid Business

Submission of abstract: By 31 October 2018

3. Research and Development

Notification of acceptance: By 14 December 2018

4. Cultivation/Propagation 6. Import/Export Regulations and CITIES/Orchid Poaching

Submission of presentation slides/full paper / poster: By 31 March 2019

7. Hobby/Landscaping/Photography/Publication

www.apoc13.com

5. Maintenance

8. Craft/Products Related to Orchids

Host: Kuching North City Hall Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara (DBKU)

Orchid Show : 24th - 28th July 2019 Conference

: 25th - 26th July 2019

Venue

: Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK)

APOC13 Highlights • • • • •

Orchid Landscape Competition Individual Orchid Plants Container Garden • APOC Quiz Flower Arrangement • Musical Band Exhibition & Sales Booth • Orchid Run

SECRETARIAT: PCO: Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) Sarawak Development Institute (SDI) Contact Persons: Contact Person: Ms Anita Anyie, Ms Maggie Tomeng, Ms. Rosalind Wong Ms Shareena Amanda Tel: +6082-415484/416484 Tel: +6082-449802 Fax: +6082-412799/419799 Fax: +6082-446414 Whatsapp: +601133065622 www.dbku.sarawak.gov.my BandarayaKU APOC13 Ad (178x304mm - Bleed 2mm) CS5.indd 3

ORCHID SHOW: Orchidwoods Company Contact Person: Mr Au Yong Kien Chung Tel: +6012-8881666

+016-8864466 9/8/18 9:16 AM

Travel

Elegant, vibrant, mysterious

Orchid Normah (Phalaenopsis Violacea)

Discover a beauty unlike any other at the Orchid Park

uching is filled with pleasing aesthetics such as its brilliant sunsets and unique architecture. If you’re looking for more, then consider visiting the Orchid Park.

Developed and managed by Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara (DBKU), the Orchid park is strategically located in a 15.4-acre site with superb views of the Sarawak River, facing the famous Kuching Waterfront. It serves as a major tourist attraction offering horticultural and botanical interests. The park allows the public to get a closer view of orchids displayed in an environment closest to their natural habitat. The park also provides visitors with recreational and educational experience while at the same time the privilege to enjoy the beauty of Kuching Waterfront.

What is special about the park is its collection of Borneo orchids. Borneo orchids are beautiful plants with attractive flowers and have great potential in horticulture. Some of the famous Borneo Orchids found in the park are the Lady’s Slipper (Paphiopedilum stonei and P. Lowii), green and black-flowered orchid, the Coelogyne pandurata, flower with a wretched stench the Bulbophyllum beccarii, the fragrant Vanda dearie and the Phalaenopsis violacea or commonly known as Normah orchid, which was declared the state flower of Sarawak on Aug 28, 1983. The attractive flowers that last for a considerably long time are slightly scented. Its slightly green flower flushed with bright purple towards the base is commonly used to produce many colourful star-shaped, ‘novelty’ hybrids.

The Orchid Park is divided into two major areas, the Nursery and the Park, which houses a total collection of 79,000 plants comprising of 112 of orchid species and hybrids.

Admission is free and the Orchid Park is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, 9:30am till 6pm, and is closed on Mondays. Experience beauty first-hand at DBKU Orchid Park and discover a world of nature you’ve never seen before.

The park displays the rich and exquisite variety of species consisting of epiphytic and terrestrial orchids, planted in the open, shaded and semi-shaded area.

For more information, contact the DBKU Orchid Garden at Jalan Astana Lot, Taman Orchid, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 446 688 Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 37

Travel

Mulu cave 38 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

Of wrecks and reptiles Plenty to discover in and around Miri City

iri has built quite a reputation for itself, being home to one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites - Mulu National Park, its chief tourist draw. Mulu Caves’ massive Sarawak Chamber, measuring approximately 2,300ft long, 1,299ft wide and 230ft high, is the largest of its kind in the world and can hold as many as 40 Boeing 747 aircrafts. The Pinnacles on Mount Api, also in Mulu, are a series of serrated limestone formations that look like they came straight out of a dark fantasy movie. The city is also known for being the place where oil was first discovered in 1910. Standing tall atop Canada Hill, the decommissioned oil-drilling rig fondly called the Grand Old Lady serves as a reminder of this historical event, which has contributed to the substantial growth of modern-day Miri. That aside, Miri has a lot more to offer, both within the borders of its city and around it. For great outdoor adventures with physically demanding activities that promise rewarding experiences in the end, it’s a good idea

to look around for a travel agency that offers the best packages at the most reasonable prices. Pre-booking via online portals is highly recommended so as to not waste precious time and energy when you finally arrive in Miri. We list here some attractions and activities we reckon will be right up your alley:

Borneo Tropical Rainforest Resort Lambir Hills National Park enjoys a reputation of being one of Miri’s topmost tourist draws. But did you know that there is another attraction located just next to it? Surrounded by the verdant tropical rainforest of Lambir Hills, Borneo Tropical Rainforest Resort is an agro and nature resort located approximately 39 kilometres from the city. That’s about an hour away by car, depending of course on traffic conditions.

Borneo Tropical Rainforest Resort

Travel

Atago Maru

Sri Gadong Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park

The resort is massive, with so many things to see and do. A stay for a night or two is recommended, with 18 different chalet styles to choose from. All these are set amidst a refreshing natural environment where you are serenaded by the insects, the birds and other wildlife in the surrounding jungle. Look out the window and behold scenic views of the mountain and the river as you breathe in the crisp air. Trek along the specially designed footpaths to discover animal parks, fruit and vegetable farms as well as a roaring waterfall. Some parts require you to hike. Enjoy a plethora of activities such as Flying Fox, Wall Climbing, Rivertube Ride, Kayaking, Fishing and Hanging Bridge just to point out a few.

Undersea adventure Like most coastal cities everywhere across the globe, Miri offers a wealth of underwater attractions. Intriguing coral reefs and multi-coloured marine fish are amongst many astonishing natural wonders waiting to be discovered beneath the glassy surface of Miri’s azure seas.

Miri Resort City’s mascot (seahorse)

More interesting perhaps are the remains of old vessels lying on the ocean floor. They can be discovered through some of Miri’s many diving packages that take you on diving trips to various designated wreck sites. One of them is the wreck of the Atago Maru, originally built in Glasgow, Scotland in 1924 as a merchant ship. The Japanese registered diesel powered ship served as a general cargo freighter for the Japanese before it was turned into an oil tanker in 1943 to carry out wartime duties during World War II. The ship was sent sinking to the bottom of the ocean in 1944 by a US heavy bomber Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 40

Travel and now rests about 14 metres below the surface. Today, the Atago Maru is part of a thriving ecosystem just a mile off the coast of Lutong. Covered in corals and teeming with brightly coloured fish, the Atago Maru is a must-see for wreck-diving enthusiasts.

vessel is that around the time it was sunken, Sri Gadong was commissioned to transport sawn timber. A boat ride to the dive spot takes about an hour and arrangements for this can be made with local dive operators.

A small vessel measuring only 100 feet in length, the Sri Gadong is home to varieties of marine life - corals big and small, schools of fish in different shapes, sizes and colours. It lays some 18 metres below the surface and is a popular site among wreck divers. Visibility is between 20 metres and 40 metres, depending on the weather condition. Although not much is known about the history of the Sri Gadong, including what type of vessel it was, why and when it was sunken. All that is known about the

Terror lizards

41 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

By this, we mean crocodiles. These fearsome super predators have walked the earth since the age of the dinosaurs. The largest prehistoric crocodile being the Machimosaurus Rex, discovered in a 120 million-year-old rock in the Tunisian desert. It measured over 30 feet long and weighed a whopping three tonnes. Although you certainly wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find the Machimosaurus Rex at the Miri Crocodile Farm, the

facility does have crocodiles so big and fearsome, a sight of them will send shivers down your spine. Miri Crocodile Farm is located in Kuala Baram, some 24 kilometres away from Miri City and has been around since Aug 16, 1998. The second such farm after Jong’s Crocodile Farm in Kuching, the 22-acre facility houses a mini zoo as well. Here, you can take a closer look at thousands of crocodiles varying in sizes and species, including saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. Find out beforehand the daily schedules so as to not miss highlights such as crocodile feeding time. The mini zoo section of the facility houses several animal species like bearcats, peacocks and pheasants, monkeys and

apes, deer as well as bats and flying foxes. They even have the pre-historic-looking cassowary, named the world’s most dangerous bird in 2005 in the Guinness Book of World Record.

Explore the local market If you think that it’s necessary for you to step out of the comforts of the city to discover unique finds, let us tell you now that it’s not true. While places like the Miri Handicraft Centre offers traditional handicrafts made by local craftsmen from the Orang Ulu and Penan ethnic communities, local markets like the vibrant Tamu Muhibbah have in store varieties of traditional foodstuffs and jungle produce that have become part of the daily life of the local

Miri Crocodile Farm

Travel

folk. Buah salak, salted fish, dried prawns, belacan and sago can be found at the Tamu. More unique finds are sago worm, ‘ensabi’, ‘timun dayak’ and locally cultivated rice, among so many others. Take a stroll through the market and have a chitchat with the vendors while you’re at it. Surely they’ll have interesting stories to tell.

Celebrate Three key events are yours to experience between October and December while you’re here in Miri. If you’re a beer buff, the month of October brings you Oktoberfest. This festival of beer originated in Germany and is now celebrated the world over – Miri included. If you happen to be in Miri in October, don’t miss out on the city’s Oktoberfest, which will see pubs, bars and lounges all around town going all out with their beers and their German sausages and their partying in celebration of the annual festival. November will see the city of Miri honouring Chinese traditions and customs at its Chinese Cultural Festival. Witness the Chinese community in the Resort City go all

out as they celebrate their custom and heritage, food, music and art with colourful shows, exhibitions and food fairs. Be part of the festivity and learn more about the Chinese community in Miri at this year’s edition of their Chinese Cultural Festival. In a lead up to the Christmas Day celebration on Dec 25, Miri will have its annual Miri City Christmas Parade early December. The parade will take place at the city’s famous Miri City Fan and will include members of different church denominations such as Roman Catholic, Anglican, SDA, Baptist and others in a colourful parade. Come discover Miri and all it has to offer. We have listed several other places of attractions in Miri in our past issues (Vol. 47, 48 & 49). Download them for FREE at www.borneotalk.com.

For further information, please contact Miri City Council at Jalan Raja, 98000 Miri, Sarawak. +6085 433501, 433504 +6085 415486 www.miriapp.com Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 43

Emergency Ambulance +6085 420033 Fire & Rescue 994 Police +6085 433730 Miri General Hospital +6085 420033 Polyclinic +6085 412322 Miri City Medical Centre +6085 426622 Columbia Asia Medical Centre +6085 437755

Information Centres Visitorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Information Centre Miri +6085 434180 Visitorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Information Counter Miri Airport +6085 615181

Outstation Bus Services Miri - Brunei Darussalam PhLs Express (www.phls38.com) Miri - Limbang - Lawas - KK Borneo Express +6085 430420 Miri - Bintulu / Sibu / Kuching Biaramas Express +6085 434319 Bintang Jaya Express +6085 432178 Borneo Amalgamated Transport +6085 430420 Eva Express +6085 413722 Freesia Express +6085 433898 Lanang Express +6085 433116 P.B Express +6085 435816 Suria Express +6085 430416

Government Departments Miri City Council +6085 433504 Miri Resident Office +6085 433203 Miri District Office +6085 411841 Custom & Excise Department +6085 433611 +6085 433351 Domestic Trade & Consumer Affairs Department +6085 412862 +6085 436787 Immigration Department +6085 442112 Visa & Entry Permit Section +6085 442104 Social Welfare Department +6085 419072 +6085 419073 National Park Booking Office +6085 434184 Health Department +6085 424722 Baram river boat services +6085 410722 (Miri - Marudi - Long Terawan Museum / Long Lama) +6085 438516 Lee Yong Express Company +6085 756749, 755280 (Marudi) +6085 412925 (Miri) Soon Hong Express Shipping +6085 755725 (Marudi) Tuto Express Shipping Sdn. Bhd. +6085 755121, 755160 (Marudi)

Bus station Miri Transport Co. Sdn. Bhd. +6085 433425, 434161 Miri City Bus Sdn. Bhd. +6085 432599 Miri Belait Transport Co. Bhd. +6085 419129

Taxi Station +6085 432277 +6085 438277

AIRLINE MAS / MASwings 1300-883000 Miri Airport Information +6085 615433 Royal Brunei Airlines +6085 426322 Air Asia +6085 615025 +603 2171 9333 (Booking) +603 2171 9222 (Inquiry) Hornbill Skyways +6085 611066

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Tourism Malaysia-Sarawak +6082 246575, 246775 Infoline 1300-88-5050 Sarawak Tourism Board +6082 423600 MAS Office +6082 244144, 246622 Air Asia +6082 283222 KCH International Airport +6082-454255, 454242 Immigration Department +6082 245661, 230280

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Sarawak – Sanctuary for rejuvenation, wellbeing

he Land of the Hornbills promises you thrills and adventure, with activities that will challenge you both physically and mentally. White water rafting, hiking, caving, BASE jumping, diving, deep sea fishing, kayaking - you name it, we’ve got it. However, not all vacationers are looking to experience adrenaline rush. Some would much rather choose a relaxing retreat over action and adventure. Home to one of the oldest and most diverse rainforests in the world, Sarawak is perfect for nature lovers. Peace and tranquillity are a sure thing, naturally. But even out of the jungle, relaxation can be found in the form of spa retreats, highland resorts, art classes and many more. Throw your worries out the window and engage in relaxing activities that will carve a smile on your face, right here in Sarawak.

beach resorts in there are perfect spots for you to recharge and enjoy a quiet time away from the city. You will find yourself amidst swaying palm trees, refreshing cool Santubong bridge with breeze and rolling Mount Santubong in the background waves – the ideal setting for practicing your yogic techniques and focus on nothing but yourself. Cove 55 recently hosted two international names in Yoga – Singapore’s Denise Keller and Indonesia’s Hendry Take.

Sarawak welcomes you for yoga sessions with nature as your “studio”. From beautiful beaches to splendid jungle retreats, Sarawak’s got the perfect settings to suit different preferences. And it doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned yoga practitioner or fairly new to it.

Embark on a journey to wellness in one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Mulu National Park in Miri is home to a well-known resort & spa set right in the middle of the pristine Mulu wilderness. Take a dip in the swimming pool, rejuvenate in the resort’s luxurious spa or practice some yoga up where the air is crisp and a symphony of wildlife echoes through the trees. If you do feel a need for adventure, there’s no better place to experience it than at the National Park itself. Grand caverns, bizarre limestone rock formations, misty mountaintops, winding river are all waiting to be discovered and explored.

Spread your yoga mat and strike a pose at the gorgeous landscape that surrounds you in Santubong, Kuching. The

Elsewhere, there are plenty of options for wellness, such as traditional Bidayuh massage or a jungle spa up in the

Mind, body & soul

Mulu 46 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

Travel view of the village, with wooden houses on stilts and surrounding greens reflected on the surface of the water. It’s very calm and quiet out there, save for the occasional chirps of birds flying past, boats and motorcycles zooming by, and the locals as they go about their daily activities. Take a relaxing boat tour along the Tellian River, from which you can admire more beautiful wooden abodes built along the river or see rows of sago logs floating on either side of the river, which would later be processed into sago flour. Sample local food, see traditional dances Traditional means of extracting sugarcane juice at Annah Rais and culture of the Melanau folk and many more. And to kill two birds with one stone, visit during Kaul Mukah and take a mountains. If you prefer an urban setting, there are plenty trip to Tapak Kaul Mukah to partake in the festivity. of wellness centres here with excellent products and services to cater to different needs.

Calm and culture Lifestyle in the cities and towns of Sarawak is generally very laid back despite the wave of development that has brought modernity to its urban and suburban areas. This makes Sarawak the ideal choice for those who need a break from their hectic life. But to truly experience relaxation and see the local way of life at the same time, you need to head to the outskirts. Annah Rais Longhouse in Kuching offers a look into the Bidayuh community’s traditional way of life. The longhouse sits in the mountainous area of the Penrissen Range and is completely surrounded by nature. Made from wood and bamboo, the long house is well preserved. It comes complete with a ‘panggah’ or ‘head house’ where they keep human skulls from back then when headhunting was still practiced. Take a guided tour of the longhouse and discover how beautiful and calming it is to live there. There is a small museum where you can discover artefacts dating back over 100 years ago. Let the sounds of bamboo musical instruments soothe your soul while you admire the graceful movements as the dancers perform a Bidayuh traditional dance at the longhouse’s cultural show. Spend a night or two at the longhouse so you can go explore attractions like Annah Rais Hotspring, the breath-taking Biduan Waterfall and bamboo rafting down the pristine river.

Create art Get your hands working on some art. Painting and working with colours are excellent stress busters, and it’s especially rewarding to see your work coming to life, and in vivid colours. Celebrated silk painting artist Narong Daun offers her weekend Batik Silk Painting Workshop, where you get to learn how to paint on a silk screen. Watch as your painting slowly come to life, with guidance from Narong herself. The weekend session is held in Narong’s studio at Kampung Garong, Penrissen. Besides the relaxing painting session, you can also step outside for a moment to enjoy the sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, hear the birds sing and breathe in the fresh air in the village. Sarawak is not just for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is a sanctuary where one can rejuvenate and find peace of mind. There are so many more places here for all of that, depending of course on what you’re looking for. So the next time you want to de-stress, get on that plane and fly down here to Sarawak, the Land of the Hornbills.

Lamin Dana Cultural Boutique Lodge at the village of Tellian in Mukah evokes a sense of calm the moment you lay eyes on it. Lamin Dana is old Melanau for “traditional house”. It sits by the river and looks out to a gorgeous For more information, contact Ministry of Toursim, Arts, Cuture Youth and Sports Sarawak at Permanent Secretary Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Sarawak, 2nd Floor, Bangunan Baitulmakmur, Medan Raya, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 319 313 +6082 445 311 www.mtacys.sarawak.gov.my Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 47

Travel

Cove 55: luxury retreat

that’s truly unique

tep into paradise that is Cove 55, a luxury retreat located between the foot of the magnificent Mount Santubong and the vast South China Sea. The resort is a proud recipient of the LTG Asia & Australasia Awards 2018 in the category of Unique Luxury Hotel of the Year Malaysia and is an award winner at the World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018. Cove 55 was originally built as a private holiday home for an Iban family. It sits in a stunning location that puts it right in the middle of untouched nature. The property underwent extensive refurbishment, converting it into an ethnic luxury boutique hotel before it was re-opened in December 2017. The refurbishment exercise resulted in an additional five ground floor garden rooms added to the property, a library simply filled with treasured literary classics and games, as well as a chef’s garden where the resort’s vegetables and herbs are locally grown. Take a dip into Cove 55’s terrace pool located at the heart of the property. Better yet, head out to the resort’s overwater platform where you can swim in the infinity pool or just relax on the lounger, with drink in hand while gazing at a mesmerising view of the glistening sea. The platform comes complete with an outdoor deck and a bar. 48 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

Though largely contemporary in appearance, Cove 55 also has Iban inspired motifs subtly incorporated into its design. Reflecting the identity of its owners, who are extremely proud of their heritage and seek to share their culture with their guests, Iban influences can also be found in the resort’s fine cuisines served at its Kechala Restaurant, Bar and Dining Terrace.

Much to discover Cove 55’s perfect location means that guests are just short distances away from many of the surrounding attractions, including nearby fishing villages and the must-visit Sarawak Cultural Village where Sarawak’s rich cultural heritages are just waiting to be experienced. Go on a hike up to the summit of Mount Santubong or see Orang Utans and crocodiles in their natural habitat at nearby national parks. Golfers will find the Arnold Palmer designed golf course a joy to tee off at. And there’s so much more to discover and experience.

Kick back and relax Rejuvenate in one of 16 tastefully designed rooms or suites, generously appointed with luxurious custom-made

Travel Slumberland double pillow top mattresses, high quality linens and modish resort furniture in soft tones, accentuated with contrasting azure blue throw pillows and headboard. Each room and suite gets a fully stocked mini bar and an ensuite bathroom with rain head shower and luxury bathroom amenities from Acqua Di Colonia. There is no TV in sight, so guests can be truly immersed in their surroundings. There are four room types to chose from. There’s the balcony room featuring a spacious balcony with breathtaking views, the garden room featuring a private garden courtyard and

Meanwhile, the resort bars are a treasure trove of exquisite cocktails, wines and spirits waiting to be savoured to the very last drop while one enjoys the cool sea breeze and the soothing sounds of the waves crashing onto shore. More than just an intimate escape, Cove 55 boasts versatile spaces that can cater to any occasion, from small get-togethers to lavish events such as the glitzy Borneo Fashion Week 2018 Luxe Resort Wear fashion show held there on Sept 9.

direct access to the terrace pool, the corner suites offering 180 degree unobstructed views of the sea and Mount Santubong and finally the villa, which is a standalone unit within the resort’s garden. It features a bedroom with walk-in wardrobe, a private lounge, spacious bathroom with a freestanding bath that looks out to the South China Sea and an outdoor terrace overlooking the ocean.

Dine and unwind Casual and relaxed, yet sophisticated at the same time, Kechala excites your taste buds with modern takes on Sarawakian cuisine. Local ingredients sourced from the surrounding jungle and organic produce from the chef’s garden are prepared using Western techniques while dishes are infused with Sarawakian flavours, offering a truly unique dining experience. Expect fine selections from an inventive menu that changes regularly, created using only the freshest seasonal produce. The restaurant features an open kitchen and guests can choose to savour their meal in the comforts of an airconditioned dining space, or outside where the cool breeze makes all the difference.

Dine at Kechala from Oct 1 to Dec 20, 2018 and receive 10% off the entire bill. To make a reservation, Whatsapp on +60178092566 and Quote “Borneo Talk 50” Terms & conditions: • Valid Wednesday to Sunday 12pm to 9pm • Black Out Dates apply • Reservations are a must and dependent on availability at time of booking • To avail the discount, quote ‘Borneo Talk 50’ at time of reservation • Valid for parties of up to 8 guests • Valid for inhouse and external guests

For more information, contact the Cove 55 | Kechala at Lot 55, Jalan Sultan Tengah (Santubong / Damai Road) Santubong, 93010 Kuching, +6082 846 068, Sarawak. +6082 846 069, cove55.com, contact@cove55.com (reservations) Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 49

People

Keeping up with Keller

ingaporean model, TV host and certified yoga instructor Denise Keller was recently in Kuching, Sarawak for some yoga. She got down on the mat at a local mall here before heading to Cove 55 in Santubong the next day to do some poses amidst lush greens, cool sea breeze and relaxing sounds of waves crashing on to shore. BorneoTalk sat down for a chat with Ms. Keller right after yoga at Cove 55: BT: You never intended to become a yoga instructor. How do you feel about that now? DK: The universe has a way of sending you innocuous messages, you know? And you just arrive to it, and you’re like, “alright I’ll wing it, I’ll go with it and see where it takes me”. I think when you start labelling things too much, it becomes a goal-centric idea, whereas when you fall into it, you’re like “okay”, it’s easier to ease into it. So yea, by sheer accident really. I love yoga as a practitioner but never thought that I would be teaching it, let alone teaching in this amazing beautiful country and travelling for this kind of work. BT: There are many styles of yoga. Which one’s your favourite? DK: I teach more of a Vinyasa flow. But I have severe reverence towards Hatha, which is foundational yoga. I also love Yin. Those are my three favourites. BT: What would you come back to Sarawak for? DK: I would definitely want to come back and see the Rainforest World Music Festival. I remember when I first joined MTV, I was so excited to go to the festival back then. The energy, the synergy, the people, the music, the culture… It was so diverse. It was jaw dropping. I’ve never seen anything like that and I’m like, “Yeah, this is better than Glastonbury!” I’d like to see how it has evolved. Rainforest World Music Festival was the first time I came to Kuching. BT: In all of your travels, what was the weirdest food you’ve had? DK: The sago grub. Oh my God. I don’t mind when it’s stir-fried. It’s okay; it goes down with beer very well. But when the guy was like, “hey, it’s much fresher and it’s 50 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

juicier when you eat it live.” And I’m like, “No…!” But yea it was juicy… like any other bug (laughs). BT: Would you rather talk about yoga, travelling or discuss music? DK: I think it all kind of comes together in a way. It’s weird. Music is my passion. It’s the rhythm of my heart. Travel is like the seeker in me. And yoga is the peace. It’s the connectiveness that I have with the environment, with myself, with the people I meet. So it’s like a 3-in-1 milkshake, you know? I have them all part of my life - I still continue to travel, listen to and play music. BT: So what’s in your playlist at the moment? DK: Weirdly enough, I don’t know why, but I’ve been falling back into Maroon 5. I know it’s a band that I always featured on MTV, but somehow the lyrics are getting better... they’re going back to the guitar riffs. So some Maroon 5, a little bit of Cardi B, a little bit of Dre… BT: Finally, a shoutout to your fans. DK: I wouldn’t be here without my fans. I know it sounds really cliché, but it really is a celebration of life. I have such an amazing connection with them now with social media. Back in the old days when we did the MTV Most Wanted, we got snail mail and faxes. Remember those good old days waiting for that one request, and then they made this ornate request, which is like “oh my goodness, that took a month to make and another month to send over to Singapore”. But now I can finally connect with them, and they’re like, “I grew up with you and you’ll always be in my heart cause you were my VJ, and I’m like, “I feel old, but okay I’ll take it.” (laughs).

People

“I was the only guy in a room full of girls!” Hendri Take on Yoga, Nature and Life On a balmy Friday morning, Hendri Take was in high spirits and jovial mood after instructing a yoga class. The pleasant and spirited vibes from Hendri was infectious, as everyone in the picturesque and normally serene Cove 55 was alive with chatter, as the invigorated yoga practitioners enjoyed the company of one another and the weather.

HT: I wake up early, make a healthy breakfast and then spend five to six hours practising yoga. I also help out in my family business in central Jakarta, and I work on my own side projects when I have time. BT: You’re very entrepreneurial with your own business! You sell your own version of Jamu! HT: Yes, Jamu is a traditional Indonesian drink that’s incredibly healthy. A lot of younger people have a misconception that it’s medicinal and avoid it due to the bitter taste. I try to find a balance of flavours so it’s not as strong, but still using fully natural ingredients so it’s nutritious! BT: “Yoga In The Wild”, seems so fun and exciting can you share and elaborate on the difference and benefits between practising yoga indoors compared to in nature? HT: At home, you feel comfortable since it’s a familiar environment. But being in nature and surrounded by the different elements really heightens your senses as you become more attuned to the environment. You hear the birds singing, you smell the grass and pollen, you feel the sun and wind against your skin. It’s a great experience. BT: For people looking to get into yoga for the first time, is there any advice? HT: Well, don’t be like me and make sure you wear the right attire! Something loose and comfy is best, like a sleeveless vest and shorts. You don’t need music - I don’t use it personally as I like to focus on myself! And don’t worry about diet! If you want to be serious about yoga, you don’t need to subscribe to any dieting. Just keep practising and you’ll feel the benefits in no time.

One of the instructors for “Yoga In The Wild”, Hendri flew in from Indonesia and arrived in Kuching the night before the yoga event. We caught up with him to learn more about his story and his take on why everyone should try out yoga at least once in their life! BT: When was the first time you tried yoga? HT: The very first time I tried yoga was 14 years ago when I was in university. I saw there was a yoga class, so I just decided to join on the spot to see what it was. I was the only guy in the whole class! And to make it worse, I wasn’t even dressed in the right outfit - I was wearing jeans that weren’t very flexible! But even if that was the case, I enjoyed it. The instructor after the class told me to come back and wear something more loose next time. Since then, I fell more and more in love with yoga and haven’t looked back. BT: What are some of the benefits of yoga you discovered? HT: Since I began practising yoga, I noticed a lot of physical benefits such as feeling fitter and stronger, as well as more flexible. Then I realised the small changes that made a big difference, such as having better sleep and breathing. This led to me feeling calmer and less anxious overall. I also had a deeper appreciation of life and everything around me. I feel more grateful for all the blessings that come my way, including health and family. BT: As with all successful people, you must have a routine. What does your morning look like?

BT: Lastly, since you’re in Kuching, have you tried the famous Sarawakian foods? HT: I was in Kuching 20 years ago with family, but I don’t remember as much! I haven’t managed to try anything yet but I’m looking forward to laksa very soon! Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 51

Travel

Majesty of nature in Bali BY LESTER GERES

ali. Day 2. I woke up feeling fresh after a good night’s sleep at the luxurious Trans Resort Bali. A quick prep and I was off to join the others for some breakfast before we boarded the tour bus to Sanur. The black sand beach of Sanur lies 15 kilometres away from Seminyak. That’s about 35 minutes by car, or in our case by bus. From there, we boarded a “fast boat” to get to the island of Nusa Penida, some 40 minutes or so away. On arrival at Nusa Penida, we were divided into groups of four and taken on a 45-minute ride through rough mountainous terrains before finally reaching our first destination - Kelingking Secret Point at the village of Bunga Mekar. After arriving at the car park area, we made our way downhill on foot towards the edge of a cliff with no more than a set of flimsy wooden guardrails made of twigs. From there, we set eyes on a magnificent view down below of Kelingking Beach, so named because of its shape that resembles a pinky (kelingking). Depending on where you stand, the unique shape of the

cliffs on Kelingking Beach also resembles the head of a Tyrannosaurus Rex, earning it the nickname “T-Rex Bay”.

An adult Manta Ray with its fin out of the water has grabbed the attention of tourists, who quickly reached for their cameras.

Beautiful azure waters of the Bali Sea surround the beach, inviting you for a swim. But the strong undercurrent can be dangerous, and with no lifeguard, swimming is possible though not advisable. There’s a trail from the Secret Point that leads down to the beach, but it’s over an hour’s descent with little to no safety on the way down. So unless you’re an expert hiker, it’s best to just enjoy the view from above.

Broken Beach is another must-visit site when you’re at Nusa Penida island. 52 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

Travel

Kelingking Beach, with its peculiar shape as seen from a high vantage point.

After Kelingking Beach, we travelled another 30 minutes or so until we reached Sakti Village on the Southwestern Coast of Nusa Penida. There, we took a short hike down the edge of a cliff past Manta Ray viewpoint, from which we caught sight of a group of tourists snorkelling in the ocean below. I could see silhouettes of giant Mantas gliding gracefully through the water around them, and I was lucky enough to have captured a picture of one of the rays with its fin out of water. We continued trekking for several more minutes until we reached Angel’s Billabong. One of Nusa Penida’s top attractions, it is a body of clear blue water trapped in an opening of a limestone cliff. A coral reef forms the edges of the billabong that is solid enough for you to walk on. A deep pool in the middle is perfect for swimming. This natural infinity Tourists taking the pool teems opportunity to take photos with marine and selfies at Angel’s Billabong. life and looks out to the vast Indian Ocean, and is well worth the travelling time. Less than five minutes away from Angel’s

Billabong is Pasih Uug or Broken Beach. It’s a pictureperfect circular bay that lies hidden behind a limestone arch separating it from the open ocean. Contrasting colours of turquoise, brown and green make for a dramatic backdrop for wedding photos, travel shots and selfies. The view was absolutely stunning! After several minutes of admiring the beauty of Broken Beach, and some selfies in between, it was time to head back to the jetty for the journey back to mainland Bali.

Such was the majesty of nature that we were so privileged to have beheld and experienced on our second day in Bali. Back on the mainland, we headed to the award-winning Bale Udang restaurant for an amazing dinner amidst a village setting before we headed back to The Trans Resort to rest and ready ourselves for the next day. *To be continued Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 53

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Food

Just like mum’s cooking

Seasonally-rooted authentic local dishes at Pinggai Café

inggai Café is one of those rare gems in a city whose dining scene is growing at a mushroom-like pace, if you catch our drift. The small café, tucked away in an alley at Kuching’s famous Carpenter Street, was started by two sisters, Lis & Cynthia who are very passionate about serving authentic local food home-style. Walking into the café, the first thing that hit our smell-senses instantly was a drool-inducing aroma of lemongrass, ginger and garlic. That alone instantly reminded us of home cooking in a typical Dayak kitchen. Speaking of which, the café has an open kitchen concept, albeit not the industrial kind. Instead, they cook their food on a rather simple cooking hob. Waiting for our food was

like waiting impatiently while mum prepared lunch for us. It’s such a nostalgic feeling, to be quite honest. Pinggai Café is not one of those joints trying to be authentic – it simply IS authentic! Authentic in a sense that their dishes are prepared in methods similar to those used in any typical Dayak cooking. Their Chicken Pansoh or Bamboo Chicken is cooked in traditional Iban-Bidayuh style. The flavours and aroma of the dish are 100% without any doubt authentic! It’s exactly similar to what you would get if you had the dish at someone’s house in a village. It is served together with sticky rice. The beauty of Pinggai Café is that everything tastes like home cooking. Even their fried rice tastes like something mum would make at home. So for those missing the flavours of kampung style home cooking, this is the place you need to go. The café prides itself in serving seasonally-rooted authentic local dishes. “Local” here refers to non-traditional food as well. So you can expect things like pork leg stew, chicken curry, Dayak Char Siew (smoked three-layered pork) and kaya toast as well – all are nostalgically divine by the way. There are a few things, however, that are not authentically local. But that really is okay, given the fact that these not-solocal items are really good as well - like their smoothie bowls and blue pea flower tea infused tuak, which you must try.

The next time you have a craving for authentic home-style local food, look for Pinggai Café at No. 37, Ground Floor Upper China Street, Kuching, Malaysia. Call them +6012 877 0771 for more information or visit their FaceBook page @pinggaicafe. (Open Tuesday to Sunday from 8am to 5pm & closed on Monday) Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 55

Food

Chicken Rice: the glue that holds us together

ou can recognise Suukee: The Original Hainanese Chicken Rice from the outside by the cute bicycle parked outside with its basket of flowers, a full house, and the beautiful aromas of chicken rice that keeps the crowds at the edge of their seats. “Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate”. Words well-spoken by author Alan D.Wolfelt. And it’s appropriate that Suukee is Hainanese for “neighbour”. Across all cultures, people will always gather together for food. You may not know someone before entering a restaurant, but as soon as we are sat down, we become neighbours. Our tables become temporary accommodation, our purpose to enjoy food. And despite the menu not boasting the widest variety of choice, Suukee focuses on delivering a delicious plate of food so you focus on having a good time. We can all agree that any well-prepared meal is accepted as comfort food, and does wonders to lift the mood. To meet these high expectations, the preparation is painstaking. Following traditional Hainanese techniques,

a specific series of steps are followed to get fluffy and aromatic rice, as well as juicy, moist chicken. Scientific and methodical in approach, the chefs at Suukee take their tasks seriously, to our benefit! Hainanese chicken rice can be found in most Malaysian hawker centres. But none can quite match the tenderness and succulent flavours Suukee achieved. Whether you order a single plate for one, or a variety to share, the food tastes as good. The pickled cucumbers add a delightful tanginess to each bite, serving as a palate cleanser. The homemade chilli sauce also helps to accentuate the moist chicken. The more adventurous of us can also order chicken liver or gizzard (stomach) if you enjoy dark meat. The rice is normally a forgotten side dish due to its bland flavour. Suukee’s rice is anything BUT bland. Every grain coated in a delightful Hainanese marinade means you can just eat the rice and be content! And the complimentary bowl of chicken soup on the side is refreshing. If you’re looking for variety, enjoy a side order of vegetables with homemade belacan (shrimp paste) dip for extra spiciness. Opened in December 2017, Suukee has quickly garnered a reputation for serving some of the best plates of chicken rice in town. Open to all members of the public thanks to its halal menu, it’s a great place for lunch. Open every day from 10am to 8:30pm, you can even enjoy Hainanese cuisine for dinner! Once in Suukee, you enter alone. Afterwards, you leave with new friends. And everyone is in agreement over how tasty is Suukee’s Original Hainanese Chicken Rice.

Suukee The Original Hainanese Chicken Rice • Lot 11367, Ground Floor, Block 11 MTLD, Jalan Song, Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 462 268 @suukee.chickenrice (Opens daily from 10am to 8.30pm) Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 57

Food

FEEL THE KICK, WITHOUT THE PINCH!

ando’s infamous flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken has been sizzling the palettes of fans in Malaysia for over two decades now and to make sure no one gets left behind, they are turning up the heat on what they have to offer.

Nando’s brings the kick without the pinch with a variety of PERi-PERi goodness that you can indulge in anytime, everyday! Fans can now have a dose of their favourite PERi-PERi chow every day of the week. Looking for lunch? Try the Quarter PERi-PERi Chicken with Mediterranean Rice and one Bottomless Soft Drink, available from 11am to 3pm daily, Nando’s lovers can recharge at midday with an unlimited refill of bottomless soft drink accompanied with its signature PERi-PERi chicken and a generous amount of rice, for only RM15.94. Or, have a go at the Chicken Hot Pot that combines delicious grilled pulled chicken with crunchy vegetables, tomato relish, tossed with a generous helping of spicy rice. Available throughout the day, the Chicken Hot Pot makes for a perfect balanced meal anytime with its terrific chicken-to-rice ratio that ensures every spoonful is packed with succulent goodness and…it only costs RM11.31.

The Chicken Trinchado, a dish that comes with a punch of flavours, is definitely the one to look out for. It is pure juicy chicken tenders drenched with Nando’s special sauce that’s filled with PERi-PERi magic. Thrown into the sauce mix are onions, herbs, fresh lemons and garlic, coupled with Mediterranean-inspired rice. This meal priced at only RM11.31, truly brings out the essence of getting ‘bang for your buck’. With quality never being sidelined at Nando’s, every piece of chicken goes through a thorough 24-hour marinade, ensuring the flavour flows right into the bone. Using only fresh A-grade chickens, meat is never deep-fried but instead flame-grilled to perfection, and is always completed with the unmistakable and uniquely flavoured PERi-PERi sauce. Using Nando’s own grown PERi-PERi chillies in South Africa, the African Bird’s Eye Chillies are cultivated in nutrient-rich soil and blistering heat that gives it its unmatched PERi-PERi magic. And, as every Nando’s lover will know, there is a free flow of PERi-PERi sauces available for diners to further enhance dishes like the Grilled Chicken Tenders, a dish comprising strips of PERi-PERi basted chicken tenders, which comes with two regular sides of your choosing priced at only RM14.42. There are also glorious choices for groups who love to share such as the much-loved Garlic Cheesy Pita. At RM6.90, even solo customers can enjoy the delights of slices of pita bread spread generously with garlic and melted cheese. If all is needed is a thirst quencher, the all new Mango & Lime Cooler is the fix. A mix of tropical Mango and a squeeze of lime for that satisfying and refreshing taste. To round off the hearty meal, now you can enjoy a cup of hot or iced Americano or Chocolate at only additional RM 5.00 with any purchase when you dine in at Nando’s ! Eating at Nando’s will never be dull again with these flavourful value-for-money dishes. What’s more, every restaurant has its own uniquely designed décor and outlook to give off its unique feel of homely, warm and relaxed environment. Surrounded by Southern African art, melodious afro-luso music and comfortable seatings, it is an experience to look forward to everyday with your friends and family. The above campaign & menu pricing is valid until 18th November 2018.

For more information on all things Nando’s PERi-PERi, do visit www.nandos.com.my or Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

58 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

Food

Coffee brewed with passion Carefully selected with you in mind Choose from over 30 different varieties of single origin blends, infusions, flavoured and decaffeinated whole bean coffees. If you’re looking for coffee house staples like the Cappuccino or Caffé Latte, there are plenty of options for you to choose from to perk you up in the morning. But you aren’t limited to the hot drinks range, as we know the need for a refreshing cold drink on a hot day! That’s why the Signature Iced Coffee is highly recommended for a shot of caffeine that cools you down. If you’re in the mood for something summery and fruity, the range of blended beverages will leave you spoilt for choice. Whatever it is you’re in the mood for, there’s truly something for everyone. Whilst the taste of your coffee is important, the customer service is equally as important to your overall experience. The superior customer service shines when you’re greeted by warm smiles and friendly baristas, who are responsive to your needs and go the extra mile to make your stay more than satisfactory.

Don’t be content with substandard coffee any longer! Once you try Gloria Jeans Coffee, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without gourmet coffee!

Open Sundays to Thursdays from 9am to 12am, and Fridays to Saturdays from 9am to 1am (including public holidays), swing by Plaza Merdeka for a cup of Gloria Jean’s Coffees. Every drink tastes helps you fall in love with coffee all over again.

he brand started with humble beginnings in Chicago, US just under 40 years ago by Gloria Jean Kvetko. Since then, the gourmet coffee brand has gone by leaps and bounds, as franchises exploded across Australia, Singapore and Malaysia, to more than 1,000 coffee houses internationally. It’s to the delight of Kuching that Mohammad Ardy brought in the franchise to Plaza Merdeka. He shares his passion for delicious coffee made from an excellent selection of coffee beans. What sets Gloria Jeans Coffee apart from other cafés is the quality of the products and service. The coffee beans are sourced from South America to ensure deeper richness of aroma and taste. Furthermore, the baristas are highly trained by award-winning staff. This means the techniques are passed down from experts in Australia and the US to bring the same classic Gloria Jeans Coffee flavour to your hometown.

Gloria Jean’s Coffees Plaza Merdeka Shopping Mall, 88 Jalan Pearl, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak.

Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 59

Awesome fries Bored of eating French fries with the usual ketchup or chili sauce? Want to try something other than this? Potato Story can definitely satisfy your cravings for something more than the ordinary fries. This local F&B chain store offers variety of snack food ranging from French fries to wedges and hash browns as well as chicken nuggets and hot dog buns. You can find its stores in all the major towns in Sarawak such as Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, Miri, Kapit and also Kota Kinabalu and Beaufort in Sabah. At Potato Story, you are spoiled with a wide choice of seasoning powders and sauces for your fries. You can pamper yourself with its hot selling spicy seaweed or wedges cheese flavour if you prefer to coat your fries with powder only. Alternatively, you can choose to have your fries dipped in its signature French cheesy or cheesy mayo sauce, this is just to name a few. All the seasoning powders and sauces are homemade with its own secret recipe using local spices which suit the taste bud of the locals. Potato Story also offers a huge variety of beverages for you to quench your thirst, namely ice tea, milk tea, fruit shake, coffee, soda, smoothies, ice blended oreo drinks and cheese cover milk tea.

So, what are you waiting for? Head over to the nearest Potato Story for mouth-watering fries that will definitely put a big smile on your face! @PotatoStory

#potatostorymy

Meat and beer at Oinks! Whether you opt for a lighter option or heavier course for dinner, accompanying food with beer is a match made in heaven. Oinks! stocks a wide range of bottled beers from around the world, including but not limited to Australia (Toohey, Summer Bright Lager, Carlton Draught), Germany (Veltins, Krombacher), Belgium (Hoegaarden), America (Yakima Red), and Mexico (Corona). Sink a cold beer from the selection of popular draughts on tap, like Tiger, Kronenberg 1664 and Guinness. But if you’re in the mood for something exotic and with a kick, the cocktails are sure to please like the colourful Jose Cuervo Tequila Sunrise or the timeless Bacardi Coke.

Strictly NON-HALAL, Oinks! brings German cuisine to Kuching in authentic boozy and thigh-slapping fashion. The combination is straightforward-meat and beer. It’s that simple! Well, not entirely simple. The food is mouth-watering and the aroma is alluring - sweet, juicy pork ribs glazed with glistening BBQ sauce. Or enjoy the plump and tender sausages. If you’re not looking for a meat-fest, order the refined Smoked Duck Salad or Crispy Sea Bass with Eggs and Salad.

The newly renovated 1st floor is perfect for events and suitable to celebrate any occasion! It’s classy, spacious and well equipped. Plus, where’s there’s beer, there’s joy! Beer is the go-to beverage to enjoy on a hot summer’s day. In Malaysia, that’s every day! For good vibes and the ultimate wind-down experience head to Oinks! Cheers! *clink*

Oinks! is located at 56, Tabuan Heights Commercial Centre, Jalan Song, Kuching. It opens from 10am to 1am daily. @oinkssong to make Contact them on your reservation or for more information.

Food

Seeing blue @ Soi 19

omething excitingly blue is brewing at Soi 19 Vivacity, Kuching, quite literally. Introducing their brand new beverage Blue Pea Sea Coconut, a drink named after the Blue Butterfly Pea flower.

In Thailand, the flower is commonly used to make Butterfly Pea flower tea, which is a popular non-caffeinated herbal concoction, served either hot or cold. While the colour of the tea is originally blue, the addition of lemon juice turns it purple. Soi 19’s version of the tea comes with sea coconut pulp and is slightly sweetened. Served ice-cold, it is refreshing to the very last drop. Blue Butterfly Pea flower is also used in Soi 19’s desserts. The flower is used to add colour to their sticky rice, which is served alongside a delicious, creamy, Coconut Ice Cream. A perfect combo to cool you down after a hearty meal at Soi 19. Mango Sticky Rice is not entirely new at Soi 19, as they’ve had it in their menu for a while now. This time, they add the Blue Butterfly Pea flower into their sticky rice to lend

it a beautiful blue hue without affecting the flavour. The rice is served alongside sweet Thai mango cubes, which go perfectly with their rich, salty coconut cream sauce. Soi 19 has also taken their fried chicken wings and make it even better than before. Chicken wings are left to soak in all the flavours from their special Thai herbs and spices marinade before they are coated in a flour mixture then deep fried until they get crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The flavours really do come through, with hints of lemongrass and ginger among them. A serving of Fried Herbs Chicken Wing includes six tasty middle part wings. Give these a try today at Soi 19 Thai Steamboat & BBQ, located on the top floor, just several shop lots away from TGV Cinemas at Vivacity Megamall Kuching. Call +6082 263468 or check out their Facebook page for more information.

Level 3-024, Vivacity Megamall, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak. +6082 263 468 Soi 19 At Vivacity, Kuching Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 61

Food

Clean and classy

erving hungry customers from near and far, The Pipe has established itself as the ideal venue for people seeking a pleasant ambience and inviting food with sizable portions that don’t require you to blow your budget. The humble bistro is tucked away in Lot 10 Boutique’s Hotel on the ground floor. Where many restaurants try too hard to stand out, The Pipe excels in its minimalist approach. The dark but tasteful decor transforms the space from a generic eatery to a trendy and upmarket restaurant. Paintings with references to pop culture are eye-catching and thoughtprovoking, whilst rhythmic tunes pulsating through the sound system keep you company as you enjoy your meal. Speaking of food, the menu at first glance seems rudimentary. But combining the best of the West with the exotic influences of the East means there’s tried and tested classic dishes for all palates. Starting with Asian flavours, the Whole Leg Chicken Curry is highly recommended for the depth of flavour in the curry sauce. Creamy and packed with spices, it’s a good

Lot 10, Jalan Ban Hock / Jalan Central Timur, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia 62 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

introduction to Malaysia’s culinary market if this is your first meal in Sarawak! If you’re just feeling peckish, Rojak is a crowd pleaser. A platter of pineapple, cucumber, tofu and white turnip chunks are coated in a thick sweet and salty sauce. Every bite is an Asian delight. You can’t go wrong with a Carbonara Classico. Al dente spaghetti with sliced mushrooms and beef brisket slices basked in a delicate parmesan-cream sauce and egg yolk, with grated parmesan, applied generously for extra measure. An Asian take on the chicken fillet, the Chicken Chop is a must-try. Deboned chicken thighs are marinated with a secret recipe courtesy of The Pipe. Served with ridged fries and a side of fresh salad and an option of mushroom sauce or black pepper sauce, the Chicken Chop can be enjoyed any time of the day. An Iced Cafe Latte rounds off the pleasant dining affair in a suitable fashion.

The Pipe’s rustic features paired with sumptuous food makes the bistro a trendy choice. For more information please visit their FaceBook page @thepipekuching, or call +6082 232 228 for bookings.

T: +6082 232228 . F: +6082 236668 E: enquiry@lot10hotel.com . W: www.lot10hotel.com

Food

Think Pepper, Think Sarawak Pepper

hen one think of the tasteful varieties of spices around the world, Pepper (Piper Nigrum) will distinctively come to mind. This is evidently true because pepper is widely used in cuisines and very deeply ingrained in many cultures. Before the turn of the century, pepper was regarded as one of the most valuable and sought after commodities. In ancient time, pepper was both used as therapeutic foods and as medicines. Undoubtedly, the history of pepper and the spice trade is a tale replete with conquests, wealth, fame and intrigue. The intricate history of pepper in Malaysia dated back as early as 1619 as some of the earliest historical records suggested that pepper was first planted in Langkawi, Kedah. In Sarawak, the spice quickly attracted the attention of most growers in the early days after Charles Brooke introduced some encouraging incentives to the local farmers. Presently, the state of Sarawak remains the largest producer in the country where more than 90% of the country’s total production of around 30,433 metric tonnes was produced in 2017. The industry has evolved to become an integral part of the rural economic activities especially in Sarawak. To-date, there are about 33,700 smallholders who depend on pepper farming for livelihood. In fact, many had their lives transformed from poverty to sufficiency. Sarawak pepper, a household name for pepper produced in Malaysia is not only synonymous with high quality but also a renowned brand in the international spice market. Currently, Malaysia is the world’s fifth largest producer and prides itself to be among the pioneers with state of the art laboratories and high standard processing facilities. The Malaysian Pepper Board (MPB), a Government agency under the purview of the Ministry of Primary Industries has been entrusted to spearhead the development of the local pepper industry which covers growing and production, extension, research and marketing. Throughout the years, MPB has obtained global standard certifications and accreditations. Having an ISO certified grading system that is continuously fortified with cutting edge technology for quality control in order to meet increasing quality parameters demanded by consumers from advanced countries, has enabled Sarawak Pepper to penetrate the world market. This speaks volumes about the quality, reliability and reputation of Sarawak Pepper.

The industry is now moving towards producing high quality processed and premium pepper through its production facilities including its HACCP – certified steam treatment system. Steam treated Black and White pepper berries are marketed as “Sarawak Mikrokleen Steam Treated Pepper”, a product with enhanced hygienic properties as well as distinct aroma and flavour. MPB has also set up a modern grinding plant to produce crushed pepper - fine powder, coarse or cracked. Pepper is widely exported as black and white pepper (berries and powder) in bulk packs. Pepper and pepper products for domestic and overseas markets also come in various forms and brands; including MPB’s own “Saraspice” range of retail and novelty premium products. To maintain quality consistency, all consignments must be graded and undergo stringent laboratory testing in MPB’s Quality Control Laboratories in Kuching, Sarikei and Sibu prior to export. Meanwhile, at the downstream level, the aim is to produce innovative pepper based products both in the food and non-food segments. Notably, some of the products such as pepper marinades have been adopted and improvised for commercial production by private entrepreneurs through transfer of technology sessions (TOTs), exhibitions, cooking demonstrations and collaborative efforts. MPB will continue to intensify its research capacity to increase productivity and pepper yield, as well as transform the conventional production lines to value-added products production. The upstream sector is tasked to developing new pepper varieties with higher yields and better resistance to pests and diseases, and new cultivation practices as well as eco-friendly technology production. MPB’s laboratories are fully equipped to monitor food contaminants such as pesticide residue in pepper for export as well as on imported pepper. This is just one of the ever increasing quality parameters and stringent measures that MPB is well-placed to handle. It is fascinating to note that Sarawak Pepper is the first Malaysian agricultural product to be registered with Geographical Indication (GI), a prestigious recognition accorded by MyIPO. Last but not least.....think pepper think Sarawak Pepper.

For more information, contact MALAYSIAN PEPPER BOARD at Lot 1115, Jalan Utama, Tanah Putih P.O Box 1653, 93916, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. +6082 331811 +6082 336877 info@mpb.gov.my / webmaster@mpb.gov.my Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 63

Feature

Driving Bintulu’s growth, 40 years and counting

rom a fishing village with some 14,000 inhabitants back in the 1970s to becoming a prosperous industrial town with its people enjoying an increasingly healthy and quality life, Bintulu’s story of growth is nothing short of remarkable. In just less than half a century, careful planning has transformed Bintulu into a modern town with good infrastructure and brisk development. And with a population of more than 250,000, the town today pulsates with life. Its town centre attracts big crowds that flock to its restaurants and commercial centres. New hotels, condominiums and megamalls are being built to cater to the needs of the increasingly urban population. Just like Sibu, Miri and Kuching, Bintulu has its own major festival - Borneo International Kite Festival, a 7th Hornbill Awards-winning event that has captured international attention, putting Bintulu on the world map. Its urban attractions are

contrasted by its natural lures such as the Tanjung Batu Beach and Similajau National Park. And then there is the Samalaju Industrial Park, an energy-intensive heavy industries enclave that has attracted multiple foreign investments.

Forty years of development In a short span of 40 years, Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) has managed to bring tremendous change to Bintulu. This change took place in three phases, namely oil & gas (1980s), agriculture (1990s) with oil palm as the main product, and Samalaju Industrial Park, which remains the biggest success under the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE). The industrial park, which covers an area of 8,000 hectares, houses domestic and foreign companies engaging in aluminium smelting, steel, oil refining, silica-based industries, marine engineering as well as other industrial and commercial activities, with investment totalling RM25 billion. BDA’s vision for Bintulu has been to ultimately transform the town into a Friendly Industrial City; a city with conducive living conditions where its citizens can live a happy and healthy, worry-free life. To achieve this, BDA carried out the Bintulu Central Business District Study (2005), Bintulu Urban and Regional Study (2006), and the Development of Jepak – Kuala Tatau, Samarakan Area

64 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

Feature (2017). These have so far yielded impressive results and helped to improve the quality of life of its citizens.

More to come With all that achieved in the past 40 years, there is no sign of slowing down for BDA. It is looking to implement more development projects to ensure further growth of Bintulu. Jepak area will benefit a great deal, with three confirmed projects including the building of the second Batang Kemena Bridge, the relocation of Government offices to Jepak, and the establishment of Bintulu Museum. Other projects that have been planned for Jepak, include a village resettlement scheme as part of an urban renewal project, the building of a recreational park and the museum as well as the possibility of a land reclamation project on the estuary of Kemena River. Meanwhile, expansion and upgrading works are also planned for Tatau and Sebauh Districts where Tatau will receive new recreational facilities as well as a service centre in Kuala Tatau.

The programme aims to create awareness among the citizens of Bintulu on keeping the town clean and healthy by inculcating the values of anti-litter. Through the programme, BDA works closely with the community, government agencies, departments, schools, business communities and political parties in an on-going effort to keep Bintulu clean.

Celebrating 40 years of progress As part of its 40 years anniversary, BDA held its 3rd Bintulu Town Hall at the Dewan Suarah Bintulu on July 28, where issues concerning the townsfolk were heard and addressed by Abang Zohari. The Chief Minister launched the Development Exhibition on the ground floor of the Dewan Suarah after the Townhall meeting. The celebration

BDA is also looking into the development and wellbeing of the Bintulu citizens. Various awareness campaigns have been lined up to educate the public on issues regarding security and safety, community wellbeing and vandalism. Recreational facilities and open spaces in Bintulu are being improved and upgraded, including Taman Tumbina, Tanjung Batu Beach and Taman Millennium. Additionally, a landscaped garden will be built at the Old Bintulu Airport site while petty traders will benefit from the opening of more trading spaces at Tanjung Batu, ABF Beach, Kampung Assayakirin and the Pasar Malam. More recreational areas and children’s playgrounds will also be built.

Keeping Bintulu spotless An on-going initiative by BDA is their Anti-Litterbug Campaign, the latest being the Anti-Litter Walk that was participated by the Right Honourable Chief Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Abang Haji Openg on July 29, 2018 at Kampung Jepak. The Anti-Litter in Kampung Jepak was the highlight for the series of its Anti-Litter Campaign, which debuted on Jan 8, 2018 in Bintulu town.

culminated with a gala dinner at Dinner World Restaurant, Bintulu Central, where BDA staff and invited guests were entertained by specially invited artistes Bob Usop and Siti Sarah Raisuddin, among others. Key highlights of the dinner included an announcement of benefits and incentives for staff as well as future plans for retraining of its retirees by BDA’s General Manager, Puan Rodziah Morshidi to much cheers and claps across the event hall. For more information, please contact

Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) Wisma Bintulu, No.1, Tanjung Kidurong Road,  P.O Box 55, 97007 Bintulu, Sarawak. T: +6086 332011 (10 lines) F: +6086 336066, 332255, 315811 E: bda@bda.gov.my

www.bda.gov.my

Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 65

Feature

MANAGING THE NATIVE COURTS OF SARAWAK IN THE NEW ERA

he 25th Anniversary Dinner of the Office of the Chief Registrar, Native Courts of Sarawak on Aug 24, 2018 commemorates its existence in the upholding of justice with regards to native laws and Adats of the Native communities of Sarawak. Since its establishment 25 years ago, the Office of the Chief Registrar, Native Courts of Sarawak has indeed been a shining torch in administering laws amongst the natives of Sarawak and has grown in stature and importance in the judicial landscape of the State and country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the current transformation of the State in the new era, Sarawak has embarked on many initiatives to

66 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

ensure that the State stays ahead of the new trends and developments in the digital era and for all institutions in the State to also keep up with the transformation. In this regard, it is imperative that the Office of the Chief Registrar, Native Courts of Sarawak also evolve to meet the expectations of the new era for the State and country,â&#x20AC;? stated the Right Honourable Chief Minister in his speech at the 25th Anniversary Dinner. To meet these new aspirations and expectations, a special panel is to be set up to study the restructuring of the Native Courts to ensure that customs and laws enshrined in the constitutions continue to be relevant in the new era, he added. Just as the Office of the Chief Registrar, Native Courts of Sarawak was set up after a review of

Feature one in Malaysia which has been duly recognised and also enhanced over the years to keep pace with socialeconomic development of the State and country. In fact, as he pointed out, with the setting up of the Office of the Chief Registrar since 1993, the supervision of the Native Courts Registries at the Districts and Sub-Districts had been better coordinated and managed. Furthermore, with the appointment of Circuit Magistrates at the Office of the Chief Registrar since 2014 many outstanding cases and backlogs have been solved. He also commended the organisation for adopting changes to enable it to move in tandem with the digital era and transformations that Sarawak is currently embarking. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While the Office of the Chief Registrar, Native Courts of Sarawak puts much emphasis on the 25th Anniversary and its transformation for the new era, it also duly recognises the inputs and contributions of all those who have been instrumental in serving the organisation over the past quarter of a century. These include the former Chief Registrars the late Andrew Salip Ridu (1993 to 1995) and late Empeni Lang (1995 to 2005) who were the first and second Chief Registrars respectively. Others who have also contributed significantly to the Office include six contract Circuit Magistrates of the Resident Native Courts and 11 contract Circuit Magistrates of the District Native Courts,â&#x20AC;? as stated by the Chief Registrar, Datu Michael Dawi Alli. the initial Native Courts Ordinance 25 years ago, the panel will make recommendations to the Government on the changes necessary for the Native Courts to be an independent and autonomous institution which would continue to be relevant to the Native communities in the new era. One significant aspect of the Native Courts which many may not be aware of is the fact that it is not only recognised in the State but also in the Federal Constitution. The Honourable Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Modernisation of Agriculture, Native Land and Regional Development of Sarawak, The Honourable Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas noted that in the formation of Malaysia, it was formally agreed that the native communities of Sarawak will maintain and preserve their customs, cultural practices and native laws as part of their way of life and racial identity. In line with the growing expectations of the people, the Deputy Chief Minister also looked forward to the recommendations and proposals from the Office of the Chief Registrar, Native Courts of Sarawak for amendments to the Native Courts Ordinance 1992 and Native Court Rules 1993 which will enable the Native Courts to stay relevant in the new era. The Honourable State Secretary, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Morshidi bin Abdul Ghani in congratulating the Office of the Chief Registrar, Native Courts of Sarawak on the 25th Anniversary Dinner revealed that the Office of the Chief Registrar, Native Courts of Sarawak is unique and also special in that it is the only

It should also be noted that in spite of the desires and wishes of the Government in solving cases involving disputes amongst native communities and others in relation to the native laws and customs, there are bound to be cases which will take much time and effort to be solved. Many of these include NCR (Native Customary Lands) land issues, conflicts and expectations which are difficult and challenging, not only in Sarawak but also everywhere where such cases are pending around the world. The government is aware of these challenges and expectations involving NCR lands and is well prepared to solve these through discussions and understanding between all parties involved in the disputes. There will definitely be no single solution that will be acceptable to all including cases adjudicated through the Native Courts. Towards this end, the State Government is committed to solving the issues and the Office of the Chief Registrar, Native Courts of Sarawak will be an integral part of the solution.

For more information, contact Native Courts of Sarawak (Office of the Chief Registrar) at Lot 11010 Blok 59, Muara Tuang Land District, Jalan Datoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Mohd. Musa, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak. +6082 662 502 +6082 662 504 native.hq@sarawak.gov.my www.nativecourt.sarawak.gov.my Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 67

Education

Change on the horizon for Sarawak education

he East Malaysian state of Sarawak is experiencing change in its education. Speaking to BorneoTalk recently, Minister for Education, Science, Technology and Research, Dato Sri Michael Manyin Jawong said in order for the State’s education standards to advance, there was a need for improvement in the quality of its teachers.

Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Research Sarawak study visit to Cambridge and Germany.

“Right now we are finding out whether or not this is effective. The headmasters are back at their respective schools, where they are being monitored by IAB staff. If this is found to be effective then we will continue sending headmasters from the rest of the primary schools in Sarawak for the course,” Manyin disclosed, adding that this would be followed by teachers attending the course.

Focus on STEM

Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Research Sarawak visit Science Centre in Penang, KL and Singapore on August 13 to 17, 2018.

“Today, about 80-90% of our teachers are trained. But they are given a one-off training,” he said, adding that many of them have been teaching for as long as 10 to 20 years using the same methods. “They should be given in-service training and exposure to the latest methods, technology and pedagogy so as to improve,” he added. According to the Minister, the State had sent the first batch of primary school headmasters for training course at Institut Aminuddin Baki (IAB) Sarawak Branch in Santubong, where the focus of their training was on leadership, motivation and school management.

According to the Minister, the State is currently emphasising on STEM so as to prepare students for a future where, according to the world survey, about 80% of jobs in the market will be science and technological based. Manyin said there was a plan to engage experts in Science, English and Mathematics to provide training to teachers, who will eventually become trainers in their respective districts. “The reason for this is because the STEM (Science, Technology, English and Mathematics) performance at our Form 3 level used to be just 19.7%. This means that only 19.7% of our students are qualified to enter pure science stream at Form 4. This year the performance is at 23.3%. So there is an improvement. But when it comes to Form 5 and 6, only some remain while others drop out. And few make it to university,” he went on saying, adding that therefore training to teachers specialising in STEM education was indeed crucial. “We are now living in a hyper connected world. As such, we can no longer live in isolation and be contented with our own standards. We must benchmark our standards not with the mediocre but the best in order to be better,” he said.

Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Research Sarawak visit Science Centre in Penang, KL and Singapore on August 13 to 17, 2018.

In summation, beefing up on STEM education and improving the quality of teachers are the way forward in an effort to uplift the standards of education in Sarawak.

Courtesy of MINIStry Of EducatION, ScIENcE aNd tEchNOLOgIcaL rESEarch SarawaK at 4th Floor, LCDA Tower, Lot 2879, The Isthmus, Off Jalan Bako, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. +6082 356 834 +6082 356 934 mestr@sarawak.gov.my www.mestr.sarawak.gov.my 68 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

Education

St. Mary’s Schools 170 years of empowering women for nation building

t. Mary’s reigns as the oldest all-girl school in Sarawak. The tradition of building strong women characters was actually embodied in the character of her founder, Mrs. Harriette McDougall, who left the safety and comforts of a privileged life in England and to sail to an almost unknown destiny in this part of the world. The foundation of the school was laid soon after the McDougall’s arrival in Kuching in June 1848.

accomplishment and contribution in the field of Art, as dancers, singers, actors, and the list went on. The school held its 170th Anniversary Dinner on Aug 4, 2018 at The Waterfront Hotel, Kuching. The dinner was organised by the Old Marians Association on behalf of the St. Mary’s Board of Management. “We are part of a very important celebration; a celebration of our 170 years of existence; a celebration of our own legacy; and a celebration of our success and a commitment to the betterment of our society,” Organising Chairperson of the anniversary dinner, Yang Berbahagia Datin Evelyn Ritikos Jaul said in her speech at the dinner. “Let this occasion be a bridge for all Marians, let it be an inspiration for future Marians; and let St. Mary’s be a shining beacon of hope for our future generations.”

In 1913, work began on a three-storey block, which was completed and occupied by the school. Miss Edith Sophia Andrews joined the staff then and proceeded later to become the Principal. By this time the students had ventured out as missionaries and pioneer teachers. By the end of the 20th Century, St. Mary’s stood out among her peers as a Premier School, outstanding in her academic achievements and in other co-curricular accomplishments. Today, St. Mary’s is a school with a history of making women leaders in the State. St. Mary’s boasts of having the first woman minister, first female member of the State Council, the first lady Senator, the first woman to be conferred Datuk and currently the first female Tan Sri in Sarawak. There are now so many Marian doctors and pharmacist, lawyers, engineers, scientist and researchers. There were just as many who had made outstanding

Gracing the dinner was Guest of Honour, Dato Sri Michael Manyin, Minister for Education, Science, Technology and Research, who represented the Right Honourable Chief Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.

Sibu (No.7) (opposite to Sibu Bus Terminal) +6084 218 338 +6084 218 339

Mukah (No. 5) (at Medan Mall) +6084 874 888 +6084 874 666

Bintulu (No.10) (at Wisma Li Hua Bintulu Sentral Bus Terminal) +6086 257 888 +6086 257 887

Bintulu (No. 2) (near to JKRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office) +6086 335 000 +6086 335 222

lihuahotel.com.my

comfort for less! Medan and Li Hua hotel chains are the answer to your hotel woes. Excellent amenities and easy to book, staying at one of these hotels is convenient thanks to their strategic location. Over the phone or email, book now for that last-minute holiday you deserve! Sibu (No. 9) (at UNICITY, Jalan Wawasan) +6084 255 333 +6084 255 353

Sibu (No.1) (next to Sibu Express Wharf) +6084 324 000 +6084 326 272

FOR UCTS HOSTEL

Sibu (No.8) (at UNICITY, Jalan Wawasan ) +6084 367 300 +6084 367 301

medanhotel.com.my

Sibu (No. 3) (next to Sibu Bus Terminal) +6084 216 161 +6084 215 151

Sibu (No. 6) (next to Medan Mall) +6084 353 888 +6084 353 555

Betong (No. 4) (next to Medan Supermarket & Bus Terminal) +6083 471 919 +6083 472 727

BT Lens

In & around Kuching between Jul & Sept 2018

RWMF 2018

BFW 2018 - Award winners, designers and models with the organiser

BFW 2018 - Stephanie Alcantara (L) with Rozie Khan

BFW 2018 Gala Dinner - Team MTACYS

BFW 2018 Gala Dinner - Joanne Kam (Stand-up comedian) with fans

Miss World Malaysia Grand Finale - Amber Chia (supermodel) with Ashley Pan (R)

BFW 2018 - Luxe Resort Wear - Apple Green Luna (Social Media Influencer)

Miss World Malaysia Grand Finale - Carmen Soo (model & actress) with Ashley Pan (L) Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 71

Health

Treatment of recurrent dislocation of shoulder by Dr. Lee Woo Guan

Consultant Adult Reconstructive Orthopaedic and Sports Surgeon

houlder dislocation means the head of the humerus (the ball) is completely displaced out of the glenoid (the socket). Shoulder subluxation means a ‘partial dislocation’ where the ball only slips out partially out of the joint and slips back into position again. Why does the shoulder dislocate? > The shoulder is one of the most mobile and least stable of all joints in the body. This makes it the most vulnerable for dislocations or subluxations. The shoulder tends to dislocate repeatedly after the first dislocation. Patients with a tendency for recurrent (repeated) dislocation are said to have an unstable shoulder. How does the shoulder dislocate? > A shoulder may dislocate after an injury like a fall on an outstretched hand or a direct blow to the shoulder (traumatic dislocation), or without a significant injury (atraumatic dislocation) in loose jointed patients. In patients like throwing athletes, the repetitive action of forceful throwing causes the anterior capsule to stretch out and eventually dislocates or subluxates (microtraumatic dislocation). Why recurrent shoulder dislocation is a concern / who is at risk A person under 21 years of age who has incurred a shoulder dislocation  has a 70-90% chance of dislocating the shoulder again during his lifetime. The older a person is when first experiencing a dislocation, the less it will happen again. But every time an older individual dislocates a shoulder, there is a chance of tearing the rotator cuff.

Recurring shoulder dislocation is painful, costly and carries other risks. For every dislocation that takes place, more damage occurs, potentially leading to arthritic issues, and increasing these problems in older arthritic individuals. Continual damage could easily lead to a rotator cuff issue that requires a full surgical repair, or a total shoulder replacement. Thus, it’s becoming more common for younger persons to undergo arthroscopic surgery sooner, rather than more intensive surgery later. What we can do about recurrent dislocation > For those who have experienced a shoulder dislocation, surgery is decided on case-by-case basis. Patients and their families are presented with the applicable statistics surrounding the likelihood of a reoccurrence. The treatment options for repeated shoulder dislocations depend on the functional demands of the patient and the level of disability suffered by the patient due to these episodes of instability. 1) Conservative (non-surgical) treatment Every patient with shoulder instability may not require surgery. Patients with a sedentary life-style or not involved in strenuous activities / active sports may be able to manage without surgery. However, there is a risk of dislocation or symptomatic instability if the shoulder is placed in a vulnerable position. 2) Surgery Most young patients and those involved with any type of active

KUCHING SPECIALIST HOSPITAL (A Member of KPJ Healthcare Berhad Group)

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sport are likely to need surgery to stabilise their unstable shoulder. The commonly used surgical options are: 1. Arthroscopic Bankart repair (Key-hole surgery) This is performed through three small holes (portals). The repair involves re-attaching the detached capsulo-labral complex to the glenoid using suture anchors. It is also possible to do a capsular shift (tightening of the lax capsule) at the same time. The technique is minimally invasive, which lessens morbidity of surgery and hospital stay.

Arthroscopic capsular shift In some cases ehis is more common in young females. Strengthening of the surrounding muscles may improve it, but should this fail an operation may become necessary.

For the cases of ligamentous laxity with instability, the ligaments are tightened using the arthroscopic technique with more emphasis on tightening and reducing the laxity of the ligaments.

2. Bony operations The Latarjet procedure (for bony lesions) If there is bone loss from the edge of the socket, or a large Hill-Sachs lesion (groove in the head of the humerus) the problem becomes more mechanical and the Latarjet procedure needs to be done. The coracoid, a bony outgrowth next to the joint is released and screwed on to the bony defect to fill it. The sling effect of the transferred tendon attached to the coracoid also plays a major role in achieving stability.

Overall it will take around 2-3 months after surgery for any patient to return to pre-operation status as far routine day-to-day activities are concerned. (Around 3-4 months for a recreational athlete to return to sports, even longer for professional athletes).

Health

Addressing cataract

by Dr. Thomas Law Ngo Hieng, Consultant Eye Surgeon MBBS (University Malaya), Master Ophthalmology (University Malaya)

lmost everyone will need to undergo cataract surgery in their lifetime. Cataract is a part of ageing process causing clouding of our natural lens. When our natural lens becomes cloudy, we will slowly lose our vision. Fortunately, this cloudy lens or cataract can be easily removed. During cataract surgery, eye surgeon will remove the cataractous lens through a very small incision using a phacoemulsification technique. An artificial lens will be inserted as a replacement. After cataract surgery, patients will experience improvement in their vision that was previously impaired by the cataract. Most patients will be offered a standard monofocal intraocular lens replacement. Monocular lens has one point of focus. This means patients will have good vision for either distant or near. If the distant vision is clear, the patient will need to wear spectacles for reading and vice versa. To address this problem, new lenses have been developed that provide two or more points of focus. These are known as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;multifocalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lenses. These are designed to reduce the need for spectacles. While these lenses promise relative spectacle independence, a certain degree of visual compromise can still be anticipated. Patients with

multifocal lenses may have some vision complains such as glare and seeing haloes. Most patients will be able to adapt or tolerate some minor glares or haloes while some patients may be severely impaired by the symptoms. Currently, in the market, there are different types of multifocal lens to cater for different patients. Patients who like to read may need multifocal lens with higher correction for reading. Patients that do a lot of computer work may prefer trifocal lens that also provides good intermediate vision. To address the complains of glares and haloes, a newer generation of EDOF (Enhanced Depth Of Focus) lenses claims to provide better balance of functionality while reducing unwanted glares and haloes, which may pose difficulty driving at night for some patients implanted with multifocal or trifocal lenses. With so many options of intraocular lenses available in the market currently, both patients and eye surgeons are in dilemma over which type to be implanted after cataract surgery. This is where good assessment and discussion with the patients prior to the surgery are needed. Different patients may tolerate glare and haloes differently. One patient may put lots of emphasis on reading small prints while another patient may need to do a lot of night driving. Another group of patients who do not mind wearing spectacles will be very happy with monofocal lens. As far as I am concerned, there is no single lens for that will suit all patients. With proper preoperative assessment and consultation, most patients will be delighted with the improvement in their vision after a successful cataract surgery.

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Lifestyle

BT Fashion File

BT Fashion File showcases Sarawakian designers who are making waves in the local fashion scene. Each of their clothing and accessories complements a wearer’s individual style. Carrie Geres, a Kuching-born Bidayuh singer from Penrissen/Padawan pictured here, adds pizzazz to her casual white T-shirt and blue jeans with Mastuli Khalid’s Orkid Kimono in Nude, giving the artiste an edgy look. Every girl wants 74 | BorneoTalkOct-Dec2018

that subtle touch of elegance, and a pair of Crimson earrings by Orielle Studio does just that for Carrie. She sports a fresh trim with ash grey shadings and Hair Botox post colour treatment by Cutting Edge, The Hair Salon. This look speaks loudly of who Carrie is, an artiste who took the local music scene by storm with her game-changing singles Tenggie Ku (Leave Me), Dayung Bidayuh and Areh! (Mekat B’tandak).

Lifestyle

Sleigh-in it! Naughty or nice? Go out in radical style this Christmas, with these stylish fashion picks for the season. VERSATILE: Silky Camelia Kurta Top and Pants Set in soft pink by Mastuli Khalid. Tip: Pair the flare pants with a white top or match the top with a pair of dark coloured jeans for a casual glam look.

GLITZY: Shimmering gold hoops by Orielle Studio.

TRENDY: Netbags are in! All-rounder multi-coloured BorneoTalk netbags that are perfect with any style. Grab yours from BorneoTalk.

ON POINT: Elegant pearl linear drop earrings in modernised circular shape by Orielle Studio. ELEGANT: Norin shoes in white with handmade flowers by Najla Shoes. CHIC: Pull off the perfect look with this Pleat Jumpsuit by Mastuli Khalid.

SOPHISTICATED: Juita stilettos in olive by Najla Shoes.

Tip: Complete the look with a pair of white sneakers and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all set for a funsy with friends over eggnogs.

MASTULI KHALID

Najla Shoes

Founded in 2014 by Kuching-born Dayang Fatma Dewi Mastuli Binti Abang Khalid (Dewi), a designer with passion for art and fashion, Mastuli Khalid combines comfort, quality and minimalism, with a hint of masculinity. The labelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature style is loose and structured, loud yet minimal. With Mastuli Khalid, Dewi takes it as an opportunity to allow Kuchingites to express their fashion style through her designs.

Established in 2015 in Kuala Lumpur by Sarawakian shoe designer Najla Sarbini, Najla Shoes produces sophisticated shoes in bold colours and timeless design. Perfect for modern women who want something elegant and comfortable. Oct-Dec2018BorneoTalk | 75

Lifestyle

The WOW factor! From kitchen utensils to cool new gadgets, we feature here awesome objects that will WOW you. IN THIS ISSUE: Sure everybody owns at least one rice cooker and a pair of speakers at home. But these picks will have your friends talking!

Big sound from a small package

tarke Sound’s IC-H1 Elite packs a powerful punch, producing unbelievably big, detailed sound that thrills you with every movie you watch and every song you listen to. Power, clarity and undistorted audio are assured, thanks to a dual enforced enclosure with a sleek 7000 Series Aluminium faceplate. The perfect speaker for everything.

Wonder pot that does it all

he Tefal RK8045 Pro Rice Cooker is every cook’s new best friend. This versatile rice cooker can also be used to whip up desserts, stir-fries with one-pot meals programmes to choose from. The RK8045 offers versatility with temperature adjustment, cooking time and cooking programmes that can be customised. It can memorise your recipes to allow you to cook all your favourite dishes at any time with ease. Its spherical bowl is 2.00mm thick with 7 layers including a durable, resistant non-stick coating and is less prone to overheating even when used continuously. The curved base design ensures even heat circulation, making sure every dish is cooked evenly. The Tefal RK8045 Pro Rice Cooker makes cooking a joy. It is a must-have for all modern households. A one-pot wonder for all your cooking needs.

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Tips & tricks:

Try these 3 simple tips to improve your home theatre sound: 1. Speaker placement. Angle your front left (L) and right (R) speakers slightly towards your seat, with the tweeters at ear level. The centre speaker goes below or above your TV, right in the middle. Place your rear L and R channels on speaker stands or mount them on your wall, no less than 1’ or no more than 2’ above ear level and must be angled towards your seating position. Subwoofer is to be placed near the corner of the room for better bass. 2. Room acoustics. Curtains, padded carpets and sound absorbing materials all contribute to better acoustics and more accurate sound. 3. Pure sound. If your receiver has a Pure / Direct option, turn it on. And turn off dynamic compression. You’ll hear the difference.

Food

Carnival of flavours

t’s easy to fall in love with Pezzo pizzas. From the big size to the array of deliciously fun toppings and the fact that you can mix and match your pizza slices according to your whims and fancy. It’s no surprise how people can almost instantly fall head over heels for Pezzo’s pizzas. Pezzo first made its grand entrance into the East Malaysian market in 2015 and has since brought a renewed joy to pizza lovers. The largest grab-and-go pizza chain here, Pezzo is an immensely fast-growing brand in East Malaysia. In just 21 months, the Singaporean pizza chain managed to open a whopping 49 branches throughout Sabah and Sarawak.

Pezzo’s concept is that of a travelling circus, with each pizza variant representing a star performer of its own show. There are 16 characters (flavours) altogether, divided into their Carnival series (Pepperoni Party Beef, Pepperoni Party Chicken, Cheesy Cheese, Hola Hawaiian, BBQ Bonanza, Sambal Ikan Bilis, Italiano Chicken, Big Daddy and Very Veggie at RM6.50 each slice) and Gala series (Hot Chick, Meat Munchers, Supremo, Mexican Mania, Island Fiesta, BBQ Meaty Beef and Fisherman’s Favourite at RM7.50 per slice). The beauty of it all is that a customer can purcahse a “Mix and Match” set of three pizza slices for just RM18.90 or a whole pizza at RM37.50 for a 14” pan with a different flavour for each slice. Pezzo also offers its “bake to order” pizzas and “lite series” (for those concerned about their weight). “Our Pizzas are Halal and made with only high-quality ingredients. We pride on using extra virgin olive oil, Australia mozzarella cheese, and high-quality flour,” said Deputy General Manager of Pezzo East Malaysia, Cathy Ting.

Up and coming entrepreneurs looking to start a Pezzo kiosk business, a low start-up cost and hassle-free set up of only less than 200 Square feet are a great option. Contact SB Supplies & Logistics +6082 422 000 or email Sdn Bhd in Kuching at market-kch@sugarbun.com for information.

Pezzo-East Malaysia

pezzoeastmalaysia

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