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The Peak
PATRICK SALOON CENTRE POINT
E DIT O R ’ S
EDITOR’S NOTE
Hello Breeze readers,
Hello Breeze readers,
EDITORIAL TEAM
Editor in Chief – Dinoza Mahruf
Editor in Chief – Dinoza Mahruf
Assistant Editor – Noel Jinguli
Assistant Editor – Hanis Batrisyia
Writer – Geraldine Yong
Writer – Geraldine Yong
Writer – Chris Pereira
It is the month of Ramadan and we are excited to have Egyptians Ahmed Yousry & Shaymaa Arafah on the Cover of the magazine. ey are the founders of ’10 N GO, the rst Egyptian Restaurant in Sabah. Find out more about them and ’10 N GO at Feature and Personality.
We kick off September with Sabah Skills & Technology Centre (SSTC) on the team for the good work they did in human skills development for so many years. SSTC has conducted a lot of skills training and created job opportunities for many Sabahans in need. An important achievement as they continuously strive to meet the state’s manpower needs.
Go to Personality to read about SSTC and the good work the team has done. Also, as a testament to SSTC’s efforts, Feature highlights some of their best students who are out there in the working world applying their knowledge and skill. Read on about what they are doing now and how SSTC has helped elevate them to greater heights.
Fasting is compulsory for Muslims during the month of Ramadan, but do you also know it is something that is practiced during non-Ramadan for health reasons? Learn about other types of fasting in Wellness. What are your thoughts about bu ets which are also popular during Ramadan? Check out Rants & Raves for our writer’s opinion about it.
Talking about development, Proton themselves has taken their popular X70 to another level with its all new 2025 model. They did quite a shout out of the new model in East Malaysia during their recent grand launching held in Kota Kinabalu. Read about the launch in Report and eventually more in depth information about the new model in Automotive
In Music, we talk about the Sabahan group ISOBAHTOS and their latest track RGB. ese lads have been making waves with their talents and currently fast rising in popularity. Also fast rising in popularity, we look at Standup Paddle Boarding in Destination. If you love having fun water activities, then you just have to try it out.
Tech takes our attention to Snapdragon, known best for their processors for popular gaming smartphones.They’re taking it to the next level by now making processors for laptops. New in the territory but not in the industry, read about whether they will do well with their bold new step.
Writer – Shawn Jourdan
Writer – Eilvane Chieng
Writer – Jeremy Tan
Writer – Adelina Adna
Writer – Lisa Aveline
Writer – Devyne Koh
Writer – Adelina Adna
Copywriter – Iliana A.
Copy writer – Iliana A.
CREATIVE TEAM
Director – Dinoza Mahruf
Graphic Designer – Marina Suid
Director – Dinoza Mahruf
Fashion – Razak Sindu Studio
Photographer – Chris Pereira
Graphic Designer – Farah Ain
Fashion – Glam Squad
Photographer – Aznan Johary
Photographer – Vance Tan
Photographer – George Yong
Photographer – Srap
Photographer – Aznan Johary
Photographer – Vance Tan
Photographer – Srap
MANAGEMENT TEAM
Managing Partner – Sonny Ali
Finance Director – Zainaba S
Administrator – Nur Ain
Managing Partner – Sonny Ali
Admin Assistant – Ilhan Amman
Finance Director – Zainaba S
Events & Promotions Director – Shana K
Administrator & Finance – Florence Masri
Public & Gov. Relations Director – Noor F. Z.
Events & Promotions Director – Shana K
IT Head – Eddie Bee
Public & Gov Relations Director – Noor F. Z.
The music scene has also been filled with new emerging talented young artists. Thanks to our friends at BTW Music, we got to know of Safehse, a captivating acoustic guitar duo. Get to know them better in Music and have a go at listening to their works.
Foodies would also not want to miss out on Hilton Kota Kinabalu’s Roo op Poolside Bar & Grill. Back a er an absence during the pandemic, the restaurant features scrumptious regular favourites and new menu items. Hilton Kota Kinabalu is also o ering an amazing JELAJAH SELERA BERSAMA HILTON’ family i ar dinner bu et during Ramadan at Urban Kitchen that you don’t want to miss.
If you’re a food lover as well, then you should have a go at Andy’s Pizzaria (Kedai Kupi of The Month) and Spanish food restaurant La Bodega (Restaurant Review). Both have gone up in popularity recently with their delicious menu items that make up to the buzz.
Enjoy the rest of the interesting reads in this issue and Happy Ramadan to all Muslims out there!
Read, explore, and experience more with our September issue. Wishing you all a fantastic September and Happy Malaysia Day!
SALES & MARKETING TEAM
Marketing Director – Mohammad Iskandar Shah
Marketing (Interior) – Lydia Anthony
Marketing (Sandakan) – Suzanah Jubrin
Marketing Director – Mohammad Iskandar Shah
Marketing (Tawau) – Angeline Yong
Marketing (Labuan) – Leonie Ann Peter
Assistant Marketing Director – Alina Joanna L.
Marketing (Labuan) – Leonie Peter
Marketing (Labuan) – Ejump Zamrie Jeffrey
Marketing (Labuan) – PRO LVY Ent
Marketing (Labuan) – Raymond Tan
Marketing (Labuan) – Eugene Teo
Marketing (KL) – Kahan Singh Gill Marketing (KL) – Mimie Khan
Marketing (KL) – Kahan Singh Gill
Marketing (KL) – Mimi Khan
Magazine Sales – Robert Tham
CONTACT INFO
Editorial/Marketing 088-268 180
Administration: 088-316 926
Editorial/Marketing: +60 19-813 8180 (Whatsapp)
Photographer Noel Jinguli
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Marketing (KL): +60 19-336 2211 (Kahan)
Marketing (Labuan): +60 19-897 1238 (Leonie)
Marketing (Sabah): +60 18-662 0134 (Alina)
Marketing (Labuan): +60 19-583 9100 (Eugene)
Marketing (Labuan): +60 19-897 1238 (Leonie)
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Srap
Adelina Adna 10 ’N GO
THE 2025 PROTON X70 PREMIUM X: A COMFORTABLE AND TECHSAVVY RIDE
OF KNOWING HISTORY: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
SKILLS & TECHNOLOGY CENTRE: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF
FLASH
MAGGI® “JOM MASAK & MENANG BERSAMA” FINALE
Kota Kinabalu, 11 August 2024 - MAGGI® celebrated local flavours infused by local cooks at the “Jom Masak & Menang Bersama” finale. The champion of the contest, Madam Velyzeah Barukon, 39, a housewife from Ranau was overjoyed to drive home a brand-new ISUZU D-MAX as her prize after battling a fierce cooking competition to hero Tuhau in their dishes. The finale was also invigorated by a culinary demonstration by Chef Hakimi, who showcased a local favorite delicacy, ‘Sambal Tumis Tuhau’ using MAGGI® Sambal Tumis. MAGGI® was also proud to continue its annual support towards the indigenous and women communities. This year, MAGGI® was proud to have raised a total of RM 14,000 to contribute to the good work of PACOS Trust Sabah. The MAGGI® Jom Masak & Menang finale at Suria Sabah drew thousands of Sabahan families, who cheered enthusiastically for the exciting cook-off and crowning of the champion.
GUT 2024
Kota Kinabalu, 18 August 2024 – The Malaysian Society of Gastroenterology & Hepatology (MSGH) held its Annual Scientific Meeting - GUT 2024 - at the Sabah International Convention Centre. GUT 2024 featured an extensive academic programme for three days covering crucial areas of clinical practice, research in gastroenterology and hepatology, and gut health. The conference was attended by gastroenterologists, general and family physicians, surgeons, researchers, scientists and allied health professionals. Organised by MSGH in collaboration with Queen Elizabeth Hospital I, Kota Kinabalu, and incorporating the GIA Symposium of the MSGH Nursing Chapter, this event offered valuable insights and networking opportunities for all attendees. Find out more at www.facebook.com/gomsgh
TAPESTRIES: PIANO RECITAL BY SOPHIA LIM
Kota Kinabalu, 25 August 2024 - The Society of Performing Arts, KK (SPArKS) held a special event, namely, TAPESTRIES: Piano Recital by Sophia Lim at the Tun Hamdan Mini Theater, Yayasan Sabah. Sophia Lim, who is a Sabahan solo pianist currently residing in London, conducted a 1-hour workshop attended by 30 piano students, teachers and music enthusiasts to share her experience on studying at the Royal College of Music, London as well as on life as a professional solo pianist who has performed in the United Kingdom, Spain and Malaysia. She also shared advice and tips on how to practise and deal with performance anxiety. After the workshop, an audience of more than 100 people filled the theatre to watch Sophia perform pieces by various famous composers including Debussy, Godowsky and Schumann on the grand piano, including a piece by Schumann that was 30 minutes in length comprising 18 short movements which can be described as whimsical, eccentric and fiery. Find out more at www. facebook.com/sparksmy.
A TRIUMPHANT RETURN FOR HOBBYCON TENOM
Tenom, 31 August 2024 – Hobbycon Tenom made a triumphant return to the Multipurpose Hall of Sabah Agriculture Park, offering an even bigger and better experience than previous years. Held in conjunction with the Flora & Indigenous Fruits Festival 2024, the event provided a unique fusion of nature and pop culture, attracting nearly 1,000 visitors who also enjoyed the park’s diverse activities. Hobbycon Tenom 2024 presented a wide range of exciting activities and special guests, featuring host Jay Lee, cosplayers Morihime and Layton Wong, and HCTV narrator Edgargill. A standout highlight was the Cosplay Pose & Win Competition, which captivated the audience with its energy and creativity. New additions this year included a Mini Art Jam, a Gaming Zone, and a Mini Otaku Market showcasing local talent, such as Penggiat Seni Visual Tenom, along with artists Yasmin Yusuf Illustration and Desiree’s Face Painting. Find out more at www.facebook.com/hobbycon
PROTON STRENGTHENS FOOTHOLD IN EAST MALAYSIA WITH 2025 PROTON X70
On August 29, 2024, PROTON launched its 2025 Proton X70 in East Malaysia, marking a significant milestone in the company’s strategy to reinforce its presence in this region. The launch, held in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, was the first of its kind, focusing specifically on customers in Sabah and Sarawak. This event follows the public unveiling of the upgraded C-segment SUV on August 15, 2024.
The Proton X70 has been pivotal in PROTON’s growth, particularly in East Malaysia. Since its initial debut in December 2018, the X70 has sold over 100,000 units in Malaysia and garnered seven prestigious awards, becoming a favorite among SUV enthusiasts. The 2025 model aims to build on this success by offering enhanced features, including a refreshed exterior, upgraded interior equipment, and advanced safety technology (ADAS level 2). The introduction of these improvements is intended to position the X70 at the forefront of the premium SUV market in East Malaysia.
Dr. Li Chunrong, PROTON’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the importance of this launch, stating that the 2025 X70 is not just a new vehicle but a reaffirmation of PROTON’s commitment to meeting the unique needs of East Malaysian customers. The new model incorporates customer feedback and adds a distinct Malaysian identity to its design, ensuring it stands out against competitors.
The 2025 Proton X70 is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 177PS and 255Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for improved fuel efficiency and performance. The SUV also features a revamped interior with premium enhancements and advanced technological features, such as a 12.3-inch floating screen, voice recognition, and a remote engine start via the Proton Link app.
In addition to the vehicle’s enhancements, PROTON has invested in improving after-sales services in East Malaysia by opening two new Regional Parts Centres in Kuching and Kota Kinabalu. This move ensures better parts availability and service reliability for customers in the region.
The 2025 Proton X70 is available in four variants, with prices ranging from RM98,800 to RM128,800 in East Malaysia, and comes in five color options. The launch includes special offers for the first 3,000 customers, further solidifying PROTON’s commitment to its loyal customer base in East Malaysia.
NEW MODERN LOOK AND FEATURES FOR CITITEL EXPRESS KOTA KINABALU
Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu welcomes invited guests to their exclusive hotel relaunch, with modern upgrades and transformation. Following a comprehensive 10-month renovation, the hotel is proud to unveil their modernized rooms and enhanced guest services.
Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu City Centre, Cititel Express is a hotel that offers a refreshingly simple, comfortable and valuable experience as they go by their theme Smart, Clean, Simple.
For 15 years, the hotel has been a trusted choice for travellers. With the recent renovation, the hotel is now repositioned with a modern style and expanded room sizes, ranging from 23 to 40 square meters. Guests can enjoy city views and beautiful sunset sea views from rooms on higher floors.
The newly designed family suites provide a comfortable space for friends and family to share and enjoy their time together. They also introduced the freshly renovated Superior Twin, Superior Double and Superior Triple.
All rooms are equipped with an upgraded Smart TV that features streaming capabilities and flight schedule checks.
“We’re thrilled to relaunch with a fresh, modern look and enhanced facilities,” said Sherry Yee, Hotel Manager of Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu. “Our renovations are driven by a commitment to offer exceptional comfort and convenience while embracing sustainable practices.”
The hotel has integrated eco-friendly practices, including recycled kraft paper for its toiletries supplies and packaging, installation of more water dispensers, upgrading to energyefficient LED lighting and air conditioning systems, and introducing new eco-friendly minibars, all of which highlight its commitment to sustainability.
Guests are greeted by lush greenery upon entering the new hotel lobby. This expanded lobby now offers additional seating and a welcoming atmosphere. New facilities include new surau, two function rooms on the top floor, and an executive lounge.
The hotel also enhanced their security measures including lift access control and after-hours main entrance access via room key cards.
As part of their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives, which include Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the hotel offers complimentary use of its function halls to non-governmental charitable organizations on the last Sunday of each month, subject to availability.
SSTC’S NOTABLE ALUMNI JOURNEYS
As Sabah Skills & Technology Centre’s (SSTC) marks their 25th anniversary, the heart of their celebration is not just the milestones they’ve reached, but the incredible stories of their alumni who have grown with them. Since its humble beginnings, SSTC has been more than a training institution; it has been a launchpad for thousands of individuals who now play pivotal roles in Sabah’s industries, from tourism to technology, oil and gas to management.
Each alumnus carries a piece of SSTC’s vision, applying the skills they’ve gained to drive innovation, lead teams, and build businesses that fuel the growth of our state. Their success is our success, a testament to the power of education and opportunity. This 25th anniversary is as much about celebrating them as it is about celebrating SSTC itself. Their achievements reflect the spirit of progress that SSTC has nurtured over the past two and a half decades. Together, let’s honor their contributions and look forward to the future they are helping to shape.
Image | Chris Pereira
Imran
Balancing Work, Play, and Passion
Meet Imran Khan Bin Edris, a driven 28-year-old originally from Segamat, Johor, but raised in the scenic city of Kota Kinabalu. His educational path began at SM St Peter, Telipok, and led him to earn a Diploma in Mechatronic Engineering from Polytechnic Kota Kinabalu, setting the foundation for his impressive career.
Imran’s journey took a major leap during his internship at Petra Resources Sdn Bhd, where his hard work earned him a full-time role as a Planner. This transition marked a pivotal moment, solidifying his place in the industry. Always eager to grow, Imran later attended the Welding Inspection program with SSTC to further hone his skills. His time at SSTC was transformative, equipping him with hands-on experience in welding inspection and boosting his confidence in navigating the competitive oil & gas sector.
Outside of work, Imran stays active through futsal and gym workouts, maintaining a healthy work-life balance that fuels his professional success.
Imran’s journey is a story of perseverance, adaptability, and lifelong learning. His advice? Stay committed, embrace growth, and remember that success is about enjoying the journey as much as reaching the destination!
At 36, Daniel Kok born and bred in Tenom has taken a unique and fulfilling career path. His passion for the culinary arts led him to ATI College where he honed his cooking skills. Later, a 6-month INSEP program with SSTC, specializing in Event and Convention Management, helped him seamlessly blend his love for cooking with front-line expertise.
One of the highlights of Daniel’s journey with INSEP was the close bonds he formed with his classmates, learning and growing together.
Despite his background in culinary arts and event management, Daniel has spent the last eight years excelling in the telecommunications industry. His training in event planning and convention management has proven invaluable, allowing him to successfully organize marketing strategies and execute plans with precision. Daniel firmly believes that diverging from one’s original field of industry can open up new opportunities, and transferable skills can lead to unexpected success.
Outside of his professional life, Daniel is a dedicated athlete. As an avid triathlete, he continues to challenge himself in various sports, demonstrating that no matter the arena, he’s always ready to embrace the next challenge.
Khan Bin Edris:
Daniel Kok: It doesn’t matter where you end up, as long as you do it with the right attitude
Dylan Dee Herdey Deney: From Tourism Dreams to Culinary Success
Dylan Dee Herdey Deney is a passionate 28-year-old from the scenic town of Kudat. As the eldest sibling, Dylan’s journey is one of resilience, taking unexpected turns along the way. Initially enrolled in Tourism Management at UiTM Sabah, Dylan found himself back in his village, contemplating a future in rubber tapping and farming—until a timely suggestion from his cousin changed everything.
Intrigued by the programs at SSTC, Dylan’s love for cooking led him to the Culinary Arts program, marking a turning point in his life. SSTC provided the perfect environment for growth, with well-equipped facilities and a supportive community that fueled his passion. One of his fondest memories includes a team-building activity in Kiulu, where he learned the value of teamwork, and the emotional farewell with classmates and teachers on his final day at SSTC.
Now, Dylan is the Assistant Outlet Manager at Chef’s Catch Restaurant, where he manages operations, staff schedules, and customer service with precision and care. The discipline and skills he gained at SSTC play a crucial role in his success.
Dylan’s advice? Self-discipline and hard work are key. His journey reminds us that passion and perseverance can lead to unexpected and fulfilling destinations.
Milka Bonong, a 25-year-old from Papar, has skillfully balanced her academic journey in Occupational Safety and Health with her lifelong passion for dance. With a background in accounting and music, Milka’s analytical mind and creative spirit have shaped her into a versatile individual. Choosing to study at SSTC through a scholarship, she dove into the field of safety and health despite having no prior experience.
The hands-on training and supportive environment at SSTC allowed Milka to grow from a beginner into a confident professional. A key moment in her education was conducting a risk assessment for a simulated workplace, a task that highlighted her growth and boosted her commitment to the field.
Outside of her studies, Milka’s love for dance thrives. She applies her safety training to her performances, ensuring her well-being in studios and on stage. Her knowledge of ergonomics helps her prevent injuries, blending her two passions seamlessly.
Milka’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. Whether in the safety field or dancing on stage, her commitment to excellence shines through. She reminds us that passion, time management, and continuous learning are the keys to success in any endeavour.
Milka Bonong: Balancing Safety, Dance, and a Passion for Lifelong Learning
Zulfika Suhaimi:
From Humble Beginnings to Plantation Management Success
This is Zulfika Suhaimi, a 32-year-old estate manager from Ranau, whose inspiring journey is a testament to resilience and hard work. Raised by his grandparents after losing both parents early on, Zulfika was determined to rise above his circumstances and build a better future.
Starting with a small oil palm plantation and car wash business, a chance meeting with an SSTC student opened doors to the world of plantation management. Drawn by SSTC’s accessible programs, Zulfika seized the opportunity to pursue his passion without burdening his family. His time there gave him valuable skills, practical knowledge, and unforgettable experiences, including a trip to a Beaufort plantation that sparked his love for the palm oil industry.
Now, with nearly 12 years of experience, Zulfika manages a 1,214-hectare estate at Intent Harvest Sdn Bhd in Nabawan. Under his leadership, production has soared, thanks to his dedication to maintaining high standards and prioritising worker safety.
A proud Liverpool fan, Zulfika lives by the motto, “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” His gratitude for those who have supported him is immense, reminding us all that through education, persistence, and the power of community, success is always within reach.
1-year-old Willben Gubhan Ashong from Tuaran underwent a remarkable transformation from a mischievous child to a skilled pastry chef. Growing up, Willben was an adventurous kid, always exploring—whether it was biking down main roads, swimming at the beach, or sneaking into orchards to sample fresh fruit.
After secondary school, Willben sought further education closer to home. Drawn by the location and benefits like a decent allowance, he enrolled in the SSTC and chose to pursue pastry arts—a decision that would shape his future. Under the mentorship of SSTC’s dedicated trainer chefs, Willben honed his culinary skills and gained confidence, with memorable experiences like conquering the flying fox at an OBS outdoor adventure.
Today, Willben works as a pastry chef aboard the MS Antonia river cruise in Antwerp, Belgium, crafting everything from croissants to cakes. His advice? Start small, sell to strangers for honest feedback, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Outside of work, Willben enjoys modifying cars, attending car events, and indulging in his favourite Tuaran Mee, which he brings to work in vacuum-sealed packs.
Willben’s journey is a shining example of how curiosity, persistence, and seizing the right opportunities can lead to incredible success.
Willben Gubhan Ashong: From Adventurous Kid to Master Pastry Chef
BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE
Release Date: 5 September 2024
Genre: Comedy / Fantasy / Horror
Director: Tim Burton
Cast: Michael Keaton, Jenna Ortega, Willem Dafoe, Winona Ryder
After a family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her teenage daughter, Astrid, accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife.
TRANSFORMERS ONE
Release Date: 12 September 2024
Genre: Action / Adventure / Animation
Director: Josh Cooley
Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Scarlett Johansson, Keegan-Michael Key
The untold origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron, better known as sworn enemies, but once were friends bonded like brothers who changed the fate of Cybertron forever.
SPEAK NO EVIL
Release Date: 12 September 2024
Genre: Drama / Horror / Thriller
Director: James Watkins
Cast: James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, Aisling Francoisi
A dream holiday turns into a living nightmare when an American couple and their daughter spend the weekend at a British family’s idyllic country estate.
HELLBOY:
THE CROOKED MAN
Release Date: 12 September 2024
Genre: Action / Horror
Director: Brian Taylor
Cast: Jack Kesy, Adeline Rudolph, Martin Bassindale
Hellboy and a rookie BPRD agent find themselves stranded in 1950s rural Appalachia. They soon discover a community of witches led by a local devil who has a connection to Hellboy’s past.
THE WILD ROBOT
Release Date: 19 September 2024
Genre: Animation / Adventure
Director: Chris Sanders
Cast: Kit Connor, Pedro Pascal, Bill Nighy, Stephanie Hsu
Shipwrecked on a deserted island, a robot named Roz must learn to adapt to its new surroundings. Building relationships with the native animals, Roz soon develops a parental bond with an orphaned gosling.
NEVER LET GO
Release Date: 19 September 2024
Genre: Thriller
Director: Alexandre Aja
Cast: Halle Berry, Percy Daggs III, Percy Daggs IV, Stephanie Lavigne
A family that has been haunted by an evil spirit for years. Their safety and their surroundings come into question when one of the children questions if the evil is real.
MUSIC SAFEHSE: A MUSICAL SAFE HOUSE
BTW Music KK is a creative platform committed to shaping a vibrant and active music landscape in Kota Kinabalu, giving local artists an open stage to showcase their talents and original works, while fostering a thriving creative community in Kota Kinabalu.
The platform has had numerous showcases of international and local indie talents like Borneon-Australian poet and hip-hop artist Omar Musa, world-class cellist Mariel Roberts Musa, and Malaysian Indie Singer-Songwriter Brendan De Cruz. Their latest collaboration with SAFEHSE, TikTok’s favourite acoustic duo from South Korea, has brought even more excitement to Indie Music enthusiasts in KK City! In which, our young team of music aficionados were able to cover this collaboration live, and secured an interview with the Korean artists.
Introducing Safehse, pronounced the same as ‘safehouse’, a heartwarming and sparkling acoustic guitar duo who’s wellversed in the fingerstyle technique of playing guitar based in South Korea. Endorsed by Gopherwood Guitar, the duo consists of Ang Ting and Erica Cho; both are deeply enthusiastic about the guitar. The name Safehse was chosen because they want to use the concept of a safe house as a message in their music so that the listeners will feel safe, cozy, and comfortable as they enjoy their renditions. As for the unique spelling, it’s to avoid sounding like a business specialized in security. Safehse is more unique after all!
Ang Ting started out his musical journey as a pianist at a young age, thanks to his mother, who is also a pianist. It was after his father’s exposure towards him as a guitarist that he changed his
instrument of choice to a guitar until now. As for Erica, she grew up listening to a lot of music and has been teaching herself the ways of the guitar. The two met and connected on Facebook through their mutual interest in fingerstyle guitar. Fun little fact, they established their own guitar school in South Korea called SAFEHSE Guitar School in 2023.
True to their name, the duo specializes in delivering a mix of R&B, pop, and hip-hop in their music with their fingerstyle guitar technique, giving you a warm feeling of comfort and safety when listening to them. Not only that, they even do covers of popular songs on their TikTok, some of which may even be your favorites. Apart from doing covers, they have released one mini-album and 20 digital singles, all of which you can listen to on any mainstream music streaming platform. They’ve been doing this for about 5-6 years now and are still going strong, spreading good vibes and comfort through music.
They have performed in many local and international concerts, including the “From Friends to Family Guitar Concert” in Malaysia and the “COLORS OF SOUNDS Guitar Concert” in South Korea. They started their first fully booked mini-tour, called “New Beginnings Guitar Concert,” in Malaysia and Singapore in 2023. As you know, recently they even went for a tour here in Sabah at D’Atas Explorer’s Tavern. If you don’t want to miss out on any of their future tours, then drop them a follow!
You can listen to Safehse on Spotify, YouTube Music, even TikTok, and Apple Music.
by
From left: Ang Ting, Erica Cho
Shawn Jourdan Image | Isaac Collard Safehse Safehse Safehse Safehse
One mention of Snapdragon, and the first thing that comes to mind is gaming smartphones. They are no strangers towards smartphone connoisseurs who want nothing but the smoothest performance on their phone. But have you ever thought about what happens if Snapdragon were to start making processors for laptops? Well think no more because Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chipsets enter the competition with specs comparable to the other big names.
Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus are both the new CPUs by Qualcomm that almost rival any other CPUs, with the only difference being that X Elite is more powerful than X Plus specwise. Some of the laptops that come with these CPUs are Lenovo Yoga, Samsung, and Microsoft Surface Laptop.
One of the features that Qualcomm boasts about these CPUs is that they are made for AI. Banding together with Microsoft to develop the Microsoft Copilot PC, the CPU on-device AI processing with high speed. Some of the marketed softwares for this feature are Recall, Live Caption, and Creator. Another huge selling point is that these CPUs deliver some of the fastest browsing experiences all while not being too battery-intensive. You can power through office work the whole day without even having to charge the laptops.
We’ve looked at some pros; now let’s look over some cons. First off, if you’re a gamer, then this may be a dealbreaker for you. While it can support many AAA games, no problem to the point of rivaling even the AMD and Intel CPUs, it won’t be able to run
games with kernel-level anti-cheat programs. In other words, most of the online games you might play. Genshin Impact, Valorant, League of Legends—you name it.
Another downside to these CPUs is that they don’t support a lot of Adobe programs. While it does support the big apps for graphic design, such as Photoshop and Lightroom, you won’t be having a smooth experience running the rest; some won’t even work. And it should be known that these chipsets ONLY support the 2023 versions of these Adobe programs.
Despite the flaws, it’s undeniable that Snapdragon is taking a huge first step toward producing laptop CPUs with what it has to offer so far. While it does appear experimental, it definitely is still usable in the long run for office use, as long as you’re not using it to play video games, of course. Is it worth it as a secondary laptop? Maybe so, but if you already have a desktop PC for the heavy stuff and a laptop for a more “work on-the-go” purpose and you’re looking for an upgrade, laptops with these CPUs are definitely worth checking out.
by Shawn Jourdan Image | Qualcomm
AUTOMOTIVE EXPERIENCING
THE 2025 PROTON X70 PREMIUM X: A COMFORTABLE AND TECH-SAVVY RIDE
We’ve recently been invited by Proton to experience the 2025 facelift of the Proton X70 Premium X edition. Moving in a convoy of other media members, we went up to Kundasang from Tanjung Aru, so I got to experience almost all facets of the driving experience.
Let’s start with how comfortable it was on the road. In terms of space, passengers at the back have ample seating and legroom. Giving credit where it’s due, the leather seats were comfortable. Not too soft and not too stiff, just right.
In terms of creature comforts, Proton has included USB-A and USB-C charging ports for passengers located below the driver’s armrest console. The back seat, or technically the bench, features a retractable armrest with hidden cup holders.
Sticking with the theme, the 2025 X70 has a new and bigger screen compared to its predecessor. It has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and allows you to control almost everything. From controlling your Spotify and GPS directions, to controlling the safety features of the car, everything at your fingertips.
That leads us to the safety features of the car, it has all the bells and whistles you’d need for a comfortable and safe, be it for long or short journeys. The few features that really stood out to me
were the Lane Change Assist (blind spot monitoring), Lane Departure Warning & Prevention, and the Intelligent Cruise Control.
The first of these features I think is quite useful, as it flashes an orange light on the A-Pillar to warn you of cars in your blindspots. The departure warning, while cool, became quite annoying by the end of our journey. I think it works by analysing the road markers, beeping as soon as you accidentally cross into the other lane. The system works best depending on the road conditions.
The cruise control on the other hand was mind blowing for someone using it for the first time. Pretty cool that it can steer by itself, even on a winding mountain road. I will need some time to get used to it as it felt weird yet wonderful at the same time.
Despite its facelift, the X70 retains its 3-cylinder turbocharged 1.5L engine. Though I still felt confident with the engine in terms of power throughout the journey despite going uphill for example. It did its job to make sure I had an overall comfortable ride.
One last feature I found cool and helpful is the parking assist. Not stopping at just a rear view camera, it also offers a bird’s eye view and 360 angle camera to help you with the parking.
All in all, the 2025 X70 Premium X edition is a good all around car. Although not a full fledged family SUV, it is still suited for those looking for a comfortable ride and drive for a family or group of friends, be it for those long uphill journeys or trips to the city.
by Noel Jinguli
Image | Noel Jinguli
DESTINATION A
SOJOURN IN THE INTERIOR VALLEY
Whether you are on the brink of burnout from nights of cramming for exams or seeking a spot to celebrate a career milestone, Kolam Resort Keningau caters to your whims and fancies. It provides a nostalgic escape for those who grew up in the countryside by allowing them to relive their carefree childhood. For city dwellers, it presents a refreshing respite from the heavily congested concrete jungle.
Kolam Resort Keningau welcomes all visitors whether they are stopping by for a quick sightseeing tour or planning to spend the day soaking up the sun on the lakeshore. If you are in the latter group, prepare for a series of thrilling activities with your buddies. Bring your baitcasting rods if you want to vibe with your colleagues as incipient fishing enthusiasts since the manmade lake is abundant with freshwater fish. For those who are not fond of fishing, keep your phone handy to capture the stunning sunsets and the changing hues of the horizon.
If you are on a quest for an adrenaline rush, channel your inner daredevil by riding the zip line, also known as the “flying fox.” Glide across the pond, feel the wind in your face, and enjoy the thrill of the ride like you are a leading star in an action movie. The sense of accomplishment at the end will leave you eager for more.
If you prefer a more relaxed experience, take a leisurely cruise on one of the dinghies. Enjoy the tranquil scenery and the twilight sky as you drift along the waterway with your friends.
For those looking to extend their stay, you can pitch your own tent or rent one from the resort if camping was not initially on your list. As night falls, lie on the open ground and enjoy stargazing under a canopy of stars.
Add Kolam Resort Keningau to your vacation itinerary and experience a memorable retreat in the heart of the Interior Valley.
by Danish Adam Bin Saftudin @ Raimie Image | Kolej Vokasional Keningau
The author with his “catch”.
Sabah’s unique landscape is characterized by a unique mix of diverse trades, ranging from food processing, plastics, and wood to steel and natural resources. Despite this diversity, the industries remain small in scale, with the absence of large multinational corporations to drive rapid growth. As a result, the perception and demand for specialized training took time to develop and flourish.
In response to the growing need for talents, the Sabah Skills & Technology Centre (SSTC) was founded in 2000. This initiative was driven by the Sabah Government (under the Ministry of Resource Development & Information Technology then), aiming to revitalize human capital development to meet the evolving talent demands of the region. Officially incorporated on September 27, 2000, under the Registrar of Societies, SSTC began its mission as a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing industrial education and skills training for local Sabahans.
In its early years, SSTC achieved a significant milestone by relocating to a 3.2-acre facility in the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) in 2001, positioning itself as a key player in industrial training. The Centre launched its first youth training programs in 2003, starting with the Graduate Reskilling Scheme in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
This success eventually paved the way for more programs like the Industrial Skills Enhancement Program (INSEP) for unemployed graduates and the Workforce Technical Transformation Program (WTTP) for school-leavers, both backed by federal government funding. These programs equipped young Sabahans with the essential skills to excel in
various industries, including oil palm plantation management, safety, service, oil and gas, and hospitality; ensuring that the Centre’s graduates were well-equipped for an array of career paths.
SSTC Today: Thriving in a Changing Economic Landscape
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, SSTC has evolved significantly to keep pace with Sabah’s dynamic economic landscape, particularly in key sectors such as tourism, oil and gas, plantation, and hospitality. To date, SSTC has successfully trained over 20,000 individuals, including close to 7,000 secondary school graduates, diploma and degree holders, achieving an impressive 90% employment rate for its trainees.
From its humble beginnings with just two employees, SSTC has grown into an 18-member team, forming strategic partnerships with leading training providers, industry associations, and reputable institutions. These collaborations enable SSTC to offer globally recognized certifications, positioning the Centre as a vital component of Sabah’s economic development. In line with the Sabah Maju Jaya development plan, SSTC has continued to align itself with state initiatives, delivering specialized training that meets the current needs of industries.
SSTC’s corporate training programs have experienced remarkable growth, driven by an increasing awareness among Sabah’s companies of the critical value their employees bring as assets. As a result, more businesses are now investing in the professional development of their workforce, increasingly enrolling employees in specialized training programs. To date, SSTC has successfully trained over 13,000 individuals, offering more than 120 specialized courses covering technical, management, safety, and various other fields.
SSTC’s History: Celebrating 25 years of Workforce Transformation
In 2021, the International Labour Organization’s Skills for Prosperity Programme in Malaysia, the British High Commission, and SSTC teamed up for the very 1st time to create training models that met both labour market needs and the requirements of local Sabahans while expanding the local TVET network. SSTC led the ‘Skills for Prosperity’ Malaysia program, focusing on the Food Processing Industry; working with government bodies, TVET institutions, industry leaders, and community organizations to develop pilot training programs for the Ranau and Tuaran districts. This initiative, a 1st also for Sabah, benefitted 100 participants, comprising of women and youth from B40 category, offering a Certificate in Entrepreneurial Skillset and a Certificate in Technology Integrated Employment Skills for the Food Processing Industry.
A significant highlight in SSTC’s journey came on October 31, 2023, during a prestigious ceremony at the Majestic Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Sabah Skills & Technology Centre proudly received the 2023 HRD Corp Award in the Training Provider Category for the Sabah Region. The HRD Awards, introduced in 2001 by the Ministry of Human Resources, is widely regarded as the pinnacle of recognition for organizations that champion innovative human capital transformation.
This esteemed accolade is a testament to SSTC’s team unwavering commitment to excellence and its pioneering role in human resource development. The award not only reflects the Centre’s dedication to fostering growth through transformative initiatives but also serves as a powerful motivator for SSTC to continue raising the bar in creating a dynamic, skilled workforce that will drive the future success of Sabah’s industries and society at large.
Looking Ahead: Embracing Future Technologies
As SSTC and team looks toward the future, its growth has been driven by the unwavering support of its Management Council and the dedicated efforts of its Management Team.
SSTC remains under the guidance of Sabah’s Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, receiving annual operating grants while retaining its operational independence, allowing it to form synergized partnerships and foster growth. The SSTC team is committed to maintaining its relevance in an ever-changing industrial landscape, with strong backing from both state and federal governments as well as key industry players.
SSTC’s next big leap is the development of an I4.0 Advancement Centre, a bold initiative that aligns with Malaysia’s national policy to integrate Industry 4.0 technologies across the country. This initiative represents a pivotal step for Sabah, a region rich in diverse industries that must ensure its workforce is equipped with the skills needed to adopt and thrive in the I4.0 environment.
It will act as a catalyst for training Sabah’s workforce in cuttingedge technologies relevant to its ecosystem. It will provide a platform for industries to integrate and implement I4.0 solutions, particularly in sectors highlighted in the Sabah Maju Jaya development plan.
Through knowledge-sharing and industry partnerships, SSTC aims to increase awareness and support the adoption of I4.0 technologies in local businesses, making these fields viable and attractive career paths for the current and future workforce.
The Centre will serve not only as a learning hub for I4.0 technologies but also as a launchpad for future technological innovations. To be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, it will facilitate hands-on learning experiences that help bridge the gap between theory and real-world applications. SSTC’s focus on reskilling and upskilling ensures that the local workforce remains competitive and well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the I4.0 era.
In the years to come, SSTC is determined to be recognized as a hub for I4.0 knowledge dissemination. Through its leadership in organizing educational, industrial, and technological events, SSTC will continue to foster collaboration among key stakeholders, drive thought leadership, and promote the benefits of I4.0 adoption. This initiative not only supports local industries in Sabah but also inspires students to pursue careers in this exciting and transformative field.
With its deep commitment to training excellence and futurereadiness, SSTC is poised to play a central role in shaping the next generation of talent in Sabah, ensuring that the state remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Image | Noel Jinguli
Jennifer Michael
Eveiynne Galigeh
Sharlene Melissa Marcus
Ernie Syufina
Muhd Raziff Murashid
Amalina Ismail
Nur Nirwanah Javil
Flory Victoria Matius
Helena Bintonis
Jemegy Jeppy
Ralph Cristie Punil
Immanuel Andingi
Albani bin Nasri Assistant Training Manager
Awang Izzat Fikri
It’s very important to instill knowledge in an individual when they’re young. That’s where education facilities come in—to educate the younger generations. There are some universities that offer courses centered around understanding the natural environment and how we can go green to save them.
High schools also teach about the dangers of pollution and the further catastrophe that it can bring. But are these classes enough to spread green awareness? There are many more initiatives that education facilities can take up to be more environmentally conscious and sustainable.
Of course, that’s not to say that these classes are not necessary or not enough when it comes to embedding environmental education. If anything, it’s a good first step to understand the basics of natural environments and the danger they are facing by emphasizing the importance of these lessons. After all, it’s not just science that can cover the basis, but also moral education and even geography. But of course, we shouldn’t just rely on lessons to spread green awareness.
Another one of the simplest ways is through a club and its activities. Nurturing plants, developing a small ecosystem at the school garden, putting potted plants in classrooms—there are many possibilities. But the first step is to form a club that focuses on not only spreading green awareness but also to partake in it. After all, action speaks louder than words. The fun doesn’t just stop there within the facility, of course.
What’s more exciting than a field trip outside together with your club members? Whether it’s for community service or a green program, activities outside of the facility grounds can be exciting. This is an opportunity where clubs can collaborate with environmental organizations for further exposure towards efforts for environmental sustainability. Whichever it is, a field trip is the best way to expose students to actual environmental crises, which encourages them to take the initiative to come up with a solution for an environmental problem.
There are numerous other ways to instill initiatives for green awareness amongst students. Through curriculums, afterschool activities, and maybe even from student-led initiatives. Whichever it is, the importance of how important going green is shouldn’t be neglected, especially with how fast we are developing.
The movement to “green” education is not just about knowledge—it’s about instilling a lifelong commitment to environmental responsibility. Through these combined efforts, schools can cultivate a generation of leaders ready to innovate and protect our world.
by Shawn Jourdan Image | Unsplash
FITNESS
As we celebrate Malaysia Day, a time to honor our nation’s journey toward independence, it’s also worth reflecting on a personal kind of independence that we often overlook—our ability to stay active and self-reliant as we age. Just as our nation has grown stronger through the years, so too can we build our strength and resilience through regular exercise, ensuring that we maintain our independence well into our golden years.
Aging is a natural process, but how we age can be significantly influenced by our lifestyle choices. Physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining mobility, strength, and overall health, which are key factors in staying independent as we get older. Regular exercise helps prevent the natural decline in muscle mass and bone density that comes with aging, reducing the risk of falls and fractures. It also enhances balance and coordination, essential for performing daily tasks safely and effectively.
Beyond the physical benefits, exercise also supports mental and emotional well-being. Staying active can help ward off depression and anxiety, common concerns among the elderly, by boosting mood and self-esteem. Cognitive function, including memory and problem-solving skills, is also better preserved in those who exercise regularly.
In Malaysia, as the population ages, there’s an increasing emphasis on the importance of active aging. Celebrating Malaysia Day is a reminder that just as our forefathers fought for the nation’s freedom, we too must fight to maintain our personal freedom through health and fitness. By incorporating exercise into our daily routines, we can ensure that we live not just longer lives, but better-quality lives, enjoying the independence that comes from being able to care for ourselves and engage fully in our communities.
As we commemorate Malaysia Day, let’s also commit to taking steps toward a healthier, more independent future for ourselves and our loved ones.
by Coach Bon Image | Unsplash
WELLNESS THE
IMPORTANCE OF KNOWING HISTORY: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
History is more than a collection of facts and dates; it’s a guide to understanding the world, our communities, and ourselves. Derived from the Greek word historia, meaning “inquiry” or “knowledge gained by investigation,” history is a narrative that connects us to the past while helping us navigate the present. But why is it important to know our personal history, the history of our country, and world history?
First, our personal history is a crucial element of self-discovery. Reflecting on the milestones, relationships, and experiences that have shaped our lives provides valuable insights into who we are today. Personal history helps us recognize patterns in our choices, understand our strengths and weaknesses, and find purpose. It’s a grounding force that offers context for our present behavior and future aspirations. Knowing your own story allows you to better connect with others and form a clearer sense of identity.
Then there’s national history, which ties us to our communities and cultures. Understanding the events and people that shaped your country fosters a deeper connection to its present state. From wars to political changes, societal progress to cultural evolution, national history offers insight into the values, struggles, and triumphs that have defined a nation. Knowing where we come from, as a collective society, gives us the tools to better engage in national discourse and participate in shaping its
future. National history is particularly valuable because it shows us the power of resilience, the consequences of past actions, and the potential for positive change.
Finally, world history offers a broad perspective that transcends borders. In today’s interconnected world, understanding the history of other nations and civilizations promotes empathy and global awareness. From ancient empires to modernday struggles, world history reveals the shared experiences of humanity—the universal themes of conflict, cooperation, growth, and adaptation. It teaches us that while our cultures may differ, we all contribute to the same global story. World history not only informs our understanding of international relations but also broadens our cultural perspectives, helping us appreciate the richness of global diversity.
Ultimately, history serves as a bridge between the past, present, and future. Whether it’s personal, national, or global, knowing history gives us the tools to reflect, learn, and grow. It is through history that we become informed, mindful citizens of the world.
Image | Unsplash
DENTAL
SMILE-WORTHY FACTS ABOUT YOUR TEETH
We all know brushing and flossing are important, but there’s more to your teeth than just your morning routine! Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into some surprising (and fun!) facts that’ll make you appreciate those pearly whites even more.
Your Teeth Are One-of-a-Kind!
Just like fingerprints, no two people on the planet have the same set of teeth – not even identical twins! Every tooth has its own unique shape and size, making your smile truly your own. So, the next time you flash those teeth, remember, they’re as special as you are.
Tooth Enamel: Stronger Than You Think
Did you know that the enamel on your teeth is the hardest substance in your body? It’s even stronger than bone! Enamel is your teeth’s personal superhero, shielding them from the daily grind of chewing. But don’t get too cocky – even superheroes need a little TLC. Chips and cracks can happen, which is why taking care of your enamel is essential.
The Saliva Swimming Pool
Believe it or not, your mouth produces enough saliva in your lifetime to fill two swimming pools! While that may sound a little gross, saliva is a crucial part of your mouth’s defense system. It helps wash away food particles, fights bacteria, and even protects your enamel from decay. So, keep hydrated and let that saliva do its thing!
Brush Like a Caveman?
Before fancy electric toothbrushes, people used “chew sticks” to clean their teeth! These twigs had frayed ends that acted as makeshift bristles. Think of it as nature’s original toothbrush. Ancient civilizations were ahead of their time, but we’re lucky modern toothbrushes come with fewer splinters.
A City of Bacteria?
Your mouth is home to more bacteria than there are people on Earth! While some bacteria are friendly, others contribute to plaque and cavities. Keeping up with your brushing and flossing routine is like playing defence against an entire bacterial city. And who doesn’t want to win that game?
Chewing Habits: Right or Left?
Here’s a quirky one: If you’re right-handed, chances are you chew on the right side of your mouth. Lefties, you tend to favour the left. It’s one of those little things we never notice but do every day.
So, the next time you brush, floss, or even chew, think about these wild dental facts! They might just give you a reason to smile a little brighter.
Image | Various Resources
RANTS & RAVES
THE KEYBOARD CAN BE MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD SOMETIMES
The internet is a very wondrous invention. What was just a distant dream of seamless and instant communication between large distances is now a normal day for us. Communicating hasn’t been easier with everything at the tip of our fingers, especially now with the advent of social media. However, with everything that’s good, there’s bound to be some people misusing it. So let’s talk about the aspect of communication through the internet and how people tend to misuse it.
With social media, we’re more connected to each other than before. We can share pictures, videos, and experiences. But most importantly, we can now share our opinions on current trends and happenings. This is a good thing, since anyone can voice out what they think about certain football matches, movies, or even people. However, we tend to go overboard.
What I see these days is internet users criticising someone or something that they don’t fully understand the circumstances of. What’s worse is, since this is the internet, people will keep on piling jokes, insults, and even threats that in all honesty, have strayed from what they’re trying to criticise in the first place.
I get it, you’re unhappy, but it doesn’t give you the right to call upon physical threats to someone, or insulting family members who might not even be involved. There’s also been cases of voicing out an opinion simply based on a news headline, confusingly talking about how the victim should not have been driving when in fact the victim was simply a passenger, just because the victim was of a specific group of people.
I hate that people think that their negative opinions matter in the grand scheme of things that they think they have to voice it out. Such cases include threatening internet influencers, voicing out threats towards illegals, or blaming the victims of assault or even murder. Not only can these actions be considered as unethical, they can also be immoral too.
We seem to forget, the people we’re talking about are humans too. It’s like most of us assume they have no emotions or feelings whatsoever. I believe this is caused by the fact that we’re talking about them through a screen, so almost all sense of humanity tends to go missing.
I’m not saying I haven’t been guilty of this in the past. These days though, even after writing paragraphs of arguments, I will always rethink if it’s worth the effort. Spoiler alert, it isn’t and I just erase everything. I hold the phrase “if you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say it” to heart when it comes to commenting on the internet, and I think everyone of us should as well.
Although it can be annoying at times, I believe we should all try our best to spread more positivity instead of negativity. I’m not saying you shouldn’t voice out any opinions, but at least filter them through your head first. Plus, we need to remember, freedom of speech doesn’t mean freedom from consequences. Consequences to ourselves and consequences to the people you’re threatening.
I’ll leave you all with this. As much as I want to say our opinions don’t matter in the grand scheme of things, they do matter to some people. So please be careful with what you say on the internet.
by Noel Jinguli Image | freepik.com
POP CULTURE ORIGIN OF OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM, NEGARAKU
Negaraku, Malaysia’s national anthem that we sing together to show our patriotism and respect for the country we live in. Occasionally sung during many events and at schools, the song emphasizes and plants the spirit of patriotism, one of which is unity for our diverse populations.
But how much do we know about how our national anthem came to be? Believe it or not, the history of our national anthem is more interesting than you thought. Many of us know that Negaraku was adopted as our national anthem right after the Federation of Malaya, currently known as Malaysia, right after the declaration of our Independence Day. Before that, our national anthem was God Save the Queen, the national anthem for the United Kingdom during the colonization time.
It all began when our country was preparing to celebrate Independence Day. Sometime in February 1957, an official contest to choose the national anthem was held and led by the Special Committee of the National Anthem Selection (JKPLK) and Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj. Despite all the entries, they all were rejected. Shortly after, Tunku Abdul Rahman suggested using the state anthem of Perak, Allah Lanjutkan Usia Sultan, as a basis for the national anthem of the Federation of Malaya. The original inspiration for the Perak state anthem came from the song “Terang Bulan,” which was a favorite of Sultan Abdullah, the Sultan of Perak, during his exile on the Seychelles island.
Then on the night of the 31st of August 1957, the song was heard for the first time by everyone at the Selangor Club field as everyone watched the Union Jack flag get lowered and replaced with the flag of the Malay Peninsula. The song went through a change in the instrumentals in 1992 to be more upbeat and marching-like. 11 years later, it got changed again to return to how it formerly was before the change, with an increasing pace as the song goes on.
Speaking of which, there are a few songs with very similar instrumentals before we got our official national anthem. In fact, many of them reference the moon in the title. One of them being the previously mentioned “Terang Bulan,” a folk song based on the French song La Rosalie. Both songs share the same melody as our national anthem. Another would be “Mamula Moon” and “Malayan Moon.” While both are love songs with a number of similarities, they both were released in different years, with the former being in the 1930s and the latter being in the 1950s. There was also “I Shall Return,” another slow song with similar instrumentals as our national anthem.
There were a few songs that used a similar melody as our official national anthem, as mentioned. The tune of the melody in itself really gives off a traditional and authentic Malayan vibe. Whichever it is your favorite, it’s undeniable that our current national anthem has a unique melody to it that really reflects our country.
by Shawn Jourdan Image | Various Resources
As the eldest of five in a close-knit family, Chikz Lee’s early years were shaped by modesty. Trips to the barbershop were about necessity rather than luxury. Today, Chikz is the proud owner of two thriving salons, both named “Hair Room Saloon.” Known for his creativity and fresh approach, he’s one of Sabah’s most sought-after hairstylists. Despite his success, Chikz remains grounded, continuously improving his skills and ensuring the best for his clients.
1. What sparked your passion for becoming a hairstylist? Was there a moment when you knew this was your calling?
C: Absolutely! When I was around 15 or 16, I visited a small salon for the first time. Before that, I only had my hair cut at the local barber due to financial constraints. Walking into the salon felt like stepping into a new world. I was amazed by the hairstylists’ skills and felt incredibly satisfied with my haircut. From then on, I saved every bit of my school pocket money to get my hair done and observe the stylists. That’s when I realised I wanted to become a top hairstylist.
2. What was the first hairstyle you ever created? Did you try it on a friend, family member, or maybe even yourself?
C: I can’t recall the exact first hairstyle, but I do remember cutting a few of my classmates’ hair in the classroom after watching the salon stylists. Every family member, friend, and even myself has been a guinea pig at some point!
3. When you first opened your salon, did you ever imagine you’d be running two successful locations? What kept you motivated to expand?
C: Honestly, I didn’t plan to open two salons. My main goal was to offer the best hairstyles and services. As more clients came in, I realised a second branch would make it easier for them to
visit. My motivation also came from wanting to give my team opportunities to grow and develop. We might even expand further in the future!
4. Hair trends come and go, but what’s one classic style or technique you learned that you still use today?
C: The classic bob is a timeless hairstyle I still use. As for techniques, “scissors over comb” and “point cutting” are staples that even top hairstylists continue to use.
5. Every guy’s got a signature style, but how can we tweak it just enough to knock a few years off without losing our identity?
C: Find a hairstyle that fits your personality, face shape, daily routine, and career. Keep up with your hair appointments to avoid a messy look. Consider experimenting with hair color to refresh your appearance. And don’t overlook how your outfit can complement your style for a younger, fresher look!
6. I’ve heard that going lighter can take years off, do you think a lighter shade could work for me, or should I go darker?
C: For grey hair that’s low maintenance, a medium-light color is ideal. A shade around level 5-6 can blend the grey and reduce its visibility.
7. How do you choose a hair color that doesn’t just cover the greys but actually gives your skin that extra glow?
C: Opt for a medium-light brown to achieve a glowing complexion and good grey coverage. The shade is crucial; a wrong choice can make your skin look darker. A professional consultation can help you find the perfect color.
8. Let’s say I’m ready to shake things up, what’s the most daring hair trend you’d recommend to make me look younger and stand out?
C: Try something different from your usual look, like highlights or balayage. These trendy techniques can give you a fashionable and youthful appearance.
9. Let’s talk volume. How can someone add some lift to their hair so it doesn’t fall flat, especially in Malaysia’s humid weather?
C: Use a volume-boosting shampoo and avoid 3-in-1 products. Apply a volume liquid spray before blow-drying and finish with a soft hairspray. Staying out of the humidity as much as possible also helps.
10. If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring hairstylists who dream of opening their own salon one day, what would it be?
C: Work hard and never stop learning. The industry is always evolving, so stay curious and keep pushing yourself!
by Nicole Datuk Patrick Sindu & Razak Datuk Patrick Sindu
Photographer : Razak Sindu Studio
Make up Artist : Razak Sindu Studio Model : Chikz Lee
FASHION Colour Me Crazy
Creative Director : Nicole Datuk Patrick Sindu
Make up Artist & Photographer : Razak Sindu Studio
Hair Design & Color : Hair Room Artistic Team
Models: Lee Aye Mei, Christini Loo, Shanie Chong, Kelly Chong, Joan Chong, Shaun Chong
HEARTH DOUBLE CHEESE BURGER Food
INGREDIENTS
• 1pcs Toasted Soft burger bun
• 2pcs 90g flat patties
• 30g homemade burger sauce
• 2 slices of beef bacon
• 2 slices of cheddar cheese
• Lettuce & sliced tomato
Patty mince mix:
• 500g of minced beef
• 1 whole egg, 5g garlic powder, 5g onion powder, 5g paprika
Burger sauce:
• 100g mayo, 50g ketchup, 30g yellow mustard, 40g of pickles (diced into small pieces), 15g pickle juice (use the juice from the pickles)
• 5g paprika, 5g garlic powder, 5g onion powder, 5g hot sauce
ANDY’S PIZZARIA
METHOD
1. For the patty, mix minced meat with one whole egg, and its spices. Mix thoroughly. Shape your patties into 90g balls and press them during the cooking process. Let the patty chill in the fridge for at least one hour before cooking.
2. For the burger sauce, mix everything together thoroughly. Keep chilled.
3. To cook the burger, sear your beef bacon in pan until golden brown and cooked. In the same pan with a medium heat, cook your patties, ensure to season with salt & pepper. Each side will only need to be seared for 2 minutes. Place your cheese slices on to let it melt.
4. For assembling the burger, toast both your buns on the inside. Burger sauce on both the top and bottom of the bun, lettuce & tomato first, then both your patties, top it off with the beef bacon and voila you are done.
It isn’t often you get to taste fresh and great pizza at modern tamus like Urban Tamu and Jesselton Artisan Market. But that’s just what Andy’s Pizza-Ria brings to the table, or brings to the tamus. They serve neapolitan-style pizza with the freshest local ingredients straight out of the oven. The highlight of their pizzas, including the sandwich, is that they use sourdough for the crust. This is what separates their pizzas from most other pizzas in town, and it totally makes a difference. The crust has a slight crunch on the outside with a soft and chewy inside.
Anyway, the Panuozzo Napoletano Pizza Sandwich is basically a pizza folded in half. It’s stuffed with cheese, lettuce, caramelised onions, mushrooms, pepperoni, and your choice of bianca white pizza sauce or tomato confit sauce. This offers for a very savoury and filling meal, if you’re eating it alone that is. The flavours of the different ingredients perfectly balance each other, especially being wrapped in the sourdough.
On the other hand, their Beef Pepperoni Pizza might be one of the best pepperoni pizzas I’ve had. The tomato base adds a slight zing and sweetness to the pizza, while the mozzarella and pepperoni go hand in hand in providing the savouriness to balance out the sweetness from the sauce. All in all, a very good pizza you should definitely try out during your next visit to the modern tamus.
Instagram: @andyspizzaria
Facebook: Andys Pizzaria
Call/WhatsApp: +60 12-839 3602
Kedai kupi of the month
by Chef Frankie Lee of Hearth Kota Kinabalu Image | Emerson Teoh
RESTAURANT REVIEW
We don’t get to experience authentic Spanish food here in Kota Kinabalu often. However, that is about to change with La Bodega. Not only do they serve amazing authentic Spanish dishes using the freshest local ingredients, their restaurant atmosphere will also make it feel like you’re in Spain as well. So let’s go on an adventure to Spain with La Bodega.
Located in Waterfront and recently opened its doors in Kota Kinabalu on 25 May 2024, La Bodega is an Authentic Spanish Tapas Restaurant. Walking into the all maroon building, which is accented by the bright yellow signage, you’re more of the same theme of colours on Spanish-esque architecture. The warmth of the yellow welcomes you with open arms while the passionate maroon gives off a romantic aura. The lot also opens up to the pier, providing for a picturesque outdoor experience if you prefer to enjoy the sea along with your meal.
With all that covered, let’s start the food review with the soup and salad. I’m gonna be the first to say this, but you can’t go wrong with mushroom soup and La Bodega’s Mushroom Soup is no different. In fact, it’s really good. The same goes for their Charred Caesar Salad as well. I always love a perfect balance of the crunch from the grilled lettuce and savouriness of the eggs and cheese.
For the Tapas menu, we had the chance to try out 3 dishes, the Albondingas “Sant Climent”, Gambas Al Ajillo, and Pincho De Cordero. If you ever wondered if wagyu beef can be made into
LA BODEGA: A SPANISH CULINARY DELIGHT
meatballs, the Albondingas “Sant Climent” is your answer. The flavours from the juicy meatballs is enhanced by the slathering of a spicy tomato sauce.
Along the same lines, the marinated skewered lamb of the Pincho De Cordero is very tender. You won’t get the strong smell of lamb that some people don’t prefer, plus it’s served with aioli and apricot chutney for further savouriness and tanginess.
Being part of La Bodega’s Top Favourite Tapas Menu, the Gambas Al Ajillo, is a must try for prawn lovers. In this dish, the fresh prawns are sauteed in olive oil, garlic, and chilli for a simple yet delightful dish that will dance on your tastebuds.
Ever since I was younger, I’ve always been curious as to how raviolis would taste. And I’m going to be honest with you, it did not disappoint. The Ravioles De Requeson Y Espanicas, is not only a mouthful to pronounce but also a mouthful of love after each bite. The handmade ravioli is stuffed with ricotta and spinach sauce, providing for a smooth and milky sensation in the mouth. It’s served with butter, sage, and parmesan.
I have more great news for seafood lovers, as La Bodega serves a wholesome dish of prawns, squid, clam, mussels, and chicken in their Paella Valenciana Mixta. Pronounced “pai-eh-luh”, paella is a Spanish rice traditionally cooked in saffron. Since us Malaysians love our rice, this is the perfect dish to start your Spanish meal journey. Coincidentally, this is La Bodega’s most popular dish.
La Bodega also serves burgers and pizza. We recommend you try their Cheese Burger and Pepperoni Pizza, both classics in their own rights. The grilled Australian wagyu beef patty is cooked to perfection, still retaining its flavourful juices. It’s served with beef bacon, caramelised onions, gherkin, lettuce, mustard, and mayonnaise with a side of fries.
Their Pepperoni Pizza is something you can’t really go wrong with, especially when baked in a traditional way. You get more than a handful of pepperoni topping your pizza, along with a dollop of tangy tomato sauce, savoury mozzarella, and hints of spiciness from the red chilli and chilli oil.
For the main course, we were pampered with the Pollo Campero and Pulpo A La Gallega. The Pollo Campero is a chicken dish. Roasted chicken to be specific. It’s served with crushed potato, garlic butter, chicken jus, grilled corn, and vegetables. It’s definitely a meal fit for a king, if you aren’t the sharing type that is.
On the other hand, the Pulpo A La Gallega is a charred Spanish octopus leg. It isn’t chewy at all and is served with cherry tomato confit, smoked cauliflower, grilled lemon, and chilli scallion. Personally, this is a perfect companion to enjoy a “Pinta De Cerveza”, if you may. Or colloquially, it can make for great “pusas”.
As for dessert, your sweet tooth will be delighted to know that the Crema Catalana is the perfect way to round up your meal. The sweet creamy custard is balanced with a soft sour flavour from the hints of Bambangan, offering a unique Sabahan twist to the dessert.
Now before I conclude, I just want to mention a few top recommendations from La Bodega themselves, the Sabah Lobster, Pargo Raja, and choice of steaks such as the Chuleton De Ternera, Entrecot De Ternera, and Solomillo De Ternera. Unfortunately, we were just teased with some sights of these dishes, but looking at the potential size of the ingredients, I can simply say I can’t wait for my next visit to La Bodega.
And there you have it. If you’re looking to try out some authentic Spanish meals or a new place that isn’t the norm, definitely give La Bodega a visit. Not only is the atmosphere amazing, the food they serve fits the bill as well.
Location: Lot 3, Anjung Samudera Centre, The Waterfront Jln 20, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Opening Hours: 10.00AM-12.00AM (Everyday)
Call: 017-388 6906
Instagram: @labodegakk
by Noel Jinguli Image | Noel Jinguli
Pulpo A La Gallega
Crema Catalana
Gambas Al Ajillo Ravioles De Requeson Y Espanicas
Paella Valenciana Mixta Pollo Campero
Albondingas “Sant Climent” Pincho De Cordero
La Bodega’s Mushroom Soup Charred Caesar Salad
AN EVENING WITH CHATEAU
HAUT-BRION, CHATEAU QUINTUS, CLARENDELLE | LIMAU & LINEN | 23 AUGUST 2024
Image | Winecellars Borneo
