Breeze #167 - The Hotel Issue

EDITOR’S NOTE

Hello Breeze readers,

Hi Breeze readers,

EDITORIAL TEAM

Editor in Chief – Dinoza Mahruf

Assistant Editor – Noel Jinguli

Writer – Geraldine Yong

Editor in Chief – Dinoza Mahruf Assistant Editor – Hanis Batrisyia Writer – Geraldine Yong

With the tourism scene in Sabah currently picking up, hotels are finally getting back their business after being quiet during the pandemic. One of them is Hilton Kota Kinabalu which is in our Cover, general manager Andrew Nisbet. Read Personality to discover his passion and drive that led his team to pull through during the pandemic to achieve more goals right after.

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.

Hilton Kota Kinabalu is not just about having a great stay in their rooms, but also about tasting their fantastic food & beverage in their respective outlets within the hotel. Read about the outlets in Feature, with a special focus on Urban Kitchen in Restaurant Review.

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.

On another note, we are now entering the last 2 months of the year. Which means it is that time of the year where many events are happening. One of them is the upcoming 27th Kota Kinabalu Music & Dance Festival, a top music event in Sabah. Read about the festival in Music.

Writer – Chris Pereira Writer – Devyne Koh Writer – Adelina Adna Writer – Lisa Aveline Copy writer – Iliana A.

Writer – Eilvane Chieng Writer – Jeremy Tan Writer – Devyne Koh Writer – Adelina Adna

CREATIVE TEAM

Director – Dinoza Mahruf

Graphic Designer – Marina Suid Fashion – Glam Squad

Photographer – George Yong

Photographer – Aznan Johary Photographer – Vance Tan Photographer – Srap

Copy writer – Iliana A. Director – Dinoza Mahruf Graphic Designer – Farah Ain Fashion – Glam Squad Photographer – George Yong Photographer – Aznan Johary Photographer – Vance Tan Photographer – Srap

MANAGEMENT TEAM

Managing Partner – Sonny Ali

Finance Director – Zainaba S

Administrator & Finance – Mahirah A.

The rest of the pages are filled with articles, mostly featuring attractions and happenings which is a good sign that the local scene is getting more and more interesting.

Enjoy reading this issue as we look forward to more exciting things towards the end of 2022.

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.

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.

Enjoy the rest of the interesting reads in this issue and Happy Ramadan to all Muslims out there!

Admin Assistant – Ilhan Amman

Photography Radzie Rahman

Venue Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Events & Promotions Director – Shana K

Public & Gov. Relations Director – Noor F. Z.

Managing Partner – Sonny Ali Finance Director – Zainaba S

Administrator & Finance – Florence Masri Events & Promotions Director – Shana K

IT Head – Eddie Bee

SALES & MARKETING TEAM

Public & Gov Relations Director – Noor F. Z.

Marketing Director – Mohammad Iskandar Shah Marketing (Interior) – Rujilin David Marketing (Kudat) – Lydia A.

Marketing (Sandakan) – Suzanah Jubrin Marketing (Tawau) – Angeline Yong Marketing (Labuan) – Leonie Ann Peter Marketing (Labuan) – Ejump Zamrie Jeffrey Marketing (Labuan) – Raymond Tan Marketing (Labuan) – Eugene Teo Marketing (Sarawak) – Twiggy Benedict Marketing (Brunei) – Terence Chin Marketing (KL) – Kahan Singh Gill Marketing (KL) – Mimie Khan Magazine Sales – Robert Tham

Marketing Director – Mohammad Iskandar Shah Assistant Marketing Director – Alina Joanna L. Marketing (Labuan) – Leonie Peter Marketing (Labuan) – PRO LVY Ent Marketing (KL) – Kahan Singh Gill Marketing (KL) – Mimie Khan

CONTACT INFO

Editorial/Marketing 088-268 180

Editorial/Marketing 088-268 180 Administration: 088-316 926 Fax Number: 088-316 936

Administration: 088-316 926

Fax Number: 088-316 936

Email: breeze@breezeborneo.com (General) sales.marketing@breezeborneo.com (Sales) admin@breezeborneo.com (Admin)

Marketing (KL): +60 19-336 2211 (Kahan)

Email: breeze@breezeborneo.com (General) sales.marketing@breezeborneo.com (Sales) admin@breezeborneo.com (Admin)

Marketing (Sabah): +60 18-662 0134 (Alina)

Marketing (KL): +60 19-336 2211 (Kahan) Marketing (Labuan): +60 19-897 1238 (Leonie) Marketing (Labuan): +60 19-583 9100 (Eugene)

Marketing (Labuan): +60 19-897 1238 (Leonie)

Marketing (Labuan): +60 19-583 9100 (Eugene)

Printing by JC Printer SDN. BHD (Co No. 75764-p) No. 11, Lorong Dewan, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Printing by JC Printer SDN. BHD (Co. No. 75764-p) No. 11, Lorong Dewan, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. P.O. Box 11984 88821 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. Tel: 088-230749, 242378 Fax: 088-235806 Email: jc.printer@yahoo.com

P O Box 11984 88821 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. Tel: 088-230749, 242378 Fax: 088-235806 Email: jc.printer@yahoo.com

inaccuracy.

(45857 T). No part of this publication can be reproduced in any form without the publisher’s permission in writing.

FIRST POP UP PET MARKET IN SABAH

Kota Kinabalu, 21 October 2022 - Sabah’s first ever 3 days outdoor pop up pet market - PAW UP MARKET was held and organized by Million Dollar Pet Marketing at Tanjung Aru Marine Ecosystem Center - TAME Center. The event attracted close to 10,000 visitors and animal enthusiasts to attend. Pets like cats, dogs, exotic pets such as iguana, call duck, chinchilla and more were spotted at the event. The two gigantic tortoises (approximately 200 kg in total) - 20 year old Sulcata Tortoise, Bobby and 15 year old Aldabra Giant Tortoise, Kina were the highlight of the event. Sabah Wildlife Department was also present to showcase their exotic animals such as 2.5 meter python, pacman frog and gecko. The market also featured pet products, artisan goods, food & beverage, fun interactive pet activities, and many more. Pet owners who came were able to meet other pet parents from all over Sabah and celebrate the joy that pets bring into their lives. More about the market at web.facebook.com/pawupmarket

METROJAYA SURPRISING SABAHANS WITH THREE DIFFERENT KOREAN CULTURE POP-UPS IN EAST MALAYSIA

Kota Kinabalu, 28 October 2022 - Something mega is now here for ARMYs in Sabah, as Metrojaya launched its First ever K-Culture Pop-Ups in The Land Below The Wind. Tapping into the increasing popularity of one of the most top-selling acts, Metrojaya is the next in line to launch the exclusive BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan or “Beyond the Scene’’) POP-UP : SPACE OF BTS, a pop-up store featuring themed merchandise inspired by some of BTS’ popular tracks - where ARMYs residing in East Malaysia can visit at Metrojaya, Suria Sabah Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu. Holding firm to its mission to provide the best and beyond with the latest trends and selections, Metrojaya is bringing this surreal experience to Malaysians from now until 15 January 2023 with a variety of merchandise to pick from including accessories, bags, to clothing, stationery, etc. To further excite the ARMYs in Sabah, Metrojaya also collaborated with TINY TAN and PLAY LINE FRIENDS. TinyTAN (formerly known as BTS Character) are animated characters based on BTS, created by Big Hit Entertainment and styled with outfits and hairstyle based on the “MIC Drop” music video. PLAY LINE FRIENDS is a concept store based on LINE FRIENDS and one of the world’s fastestgrowing character brands, for a remarkable in-store experience to win the hearts of its customers with the stylish and adorable characters including BROWN, CONY, SALLY, and BT21. For more information, visit www.metrojaya.com.my

ART CONNECTS 2.0 ART EXHIBITION 2022 LAUNCH

Kota Kinabalu, 29 October 2022 -Art Connects 2.0 Art Exhibition was officially launched on this day by Joniston Bangkuai, State Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment of Sabah at University College Sabah Foundation - UCSF. This international art exhibition features artworks by artists from China, Russia, USA, India, Canada, Japan, Korea, Thailand, and of course Malaysia, including local Sabahan artists. Harold Egn Eswar is the curator of the exhibition, who is also a well known local artist. The exhibition is located at Nature Inspiration Art Gallery UCSF and will go on for a month until 29 November 2022. Admission is FREE. Art Connects 2.0 Art Exhibition is organized by SIA and co-organized by UCSF, ATI College Sabah, and Association of Asian Artists. For more information, go to Facebook: Art Connects 2.0

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY EXHIBITION (IPEX) 2022

Scenes during IPEX 2022 at Sabah International Convention Centre. The exhibition was officiated by Yang Berhormat Datuk Ir. Shahhelmey Yahya, State Minister of Community Development and People’s Wellbeing on behalf of YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Bin Haji Noor, Chief Minister of Sabah.

IPEX 2022 featured a variety of innovations, trends and highlights of the properties sectors, building materials, electrical appliances and home products - 100 exhibition booths with a comprehensive range of products on offer. The exhibition was organized by Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) Sabah Chapter, in collaboration ImpactZone Sdn Bhd.

For more details, contact PAM Sabah Chapter (088-232 524) or Impact Zone Sdn Bhd (012-827 3939).

Kota Kinabalu, 1 October 2022 - INTI Prom Night 2022 was held at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) and organized by the 27th INTIMA, the student council of INTI College Sabah. The event is more than just a prom night for students, but also a fund raising dinner in collaboration with C.H.I.L.D Sabah. The NGO has a center for young adults with disabilities at Tanjung Aru and went through a tough time during the pandemic. Thanks to INTI Prom Night 2022, the event managed to raise RM2000 for C.H.I.L.D Sabah. The night was filled with activities such as Prom King & Queen contest, awards presentation to selected college staff, dance performance by the student council and also performance by guest singer Angelyca Laura. A RM2000 cheque was also presented to C.H.I.L.D Sabah. INTI Prom Night 2022 was made possible thanks to the following sponsors.

When thinking of 5-star hotels, minds tend to gravitate towards the lavish suites, infinity pools, and jazzy lounges. Somehow less is said about the dining facilities, although they do constitute a crucial part of an establishment’s reputation. They play quite an underrated role ensuring all guests have satisfying meals and a good environment to enjoy good company. That’s one of the bigger focuses that Hilton Kota Kinabalu has with their dining experience for guests. At Hilton Kota Kinabalu (Hilton KK), visitors and guests have a few stunning choices to choose from when it comes to their dining experience.

The first of Hilton KK’s F&B outlets to look out for is DRIP Cafe located at the hotel lobby. Those of you on the go should always take a second to recoup and refill their energy. DRIP Cafe is open everyday, from 7am to 7pm. It offers a convenient one stop cafe for those who can’t afford to miss a second of their time. Grab a light breakfast, sandwiches, snacks, cakes, pastries, and drinks before moving on to your next meeting. Rest assured, re-energising will be the least of your worries with DRIP Cafe around.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a relaxing and chill place to lounge and relax, Hilton KK’s The Club is the perfect place after a long day of meetings and adventure. The Club is located at lobby level and is quite easily found with its inviting aura. Hangout with friends and experience an atmosphere that’s

both relaxing yet exciting. Get ready to sample from a World Order Drink Selection as The Club bartenders are trained and experienced in the art of mixing drinks and cocktails. Prefer a non-alcoholic time? Well, they also serve a myriad of mocktails

Wine and Dine in Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu The Club

to quench your thirst. Enjoy live performances that entertain you through the night, all while munching on light finger-foods and snacks with your drinks. The Club is open on Wednesday through to Sunday, from 4pm till late.

“But what if I prefer a relaxing time by the pool” you asked? Well, Hilton KK’s Rooftop Bar & Grill is just what you need. Open everyday of the week from 5pm to 10.30pm, the bar and grill located at the top of the hotel will greet you with the “highest” level of pool side relaxation. Yes, pun intended. Bring the whole family to a cosy restaurant atmosphere and dine imported grilled meats or an array of fresh seafood straight from the South China Sea, all prepared with light healthy accompaniments. If that doesn’t float your boat, why not enjoy your meals or snacks by the pool after your swim instead? However, no matter where you have your meal, you’ll certainly enjoy the beautiful Kota Kinabalu view coming alive at night, paired with a diverse selection of international wines that satisfy even the most discerning connoisseur.

For those looking for a more local taste, Urban Kitchen is definitely the place to be. The atmosphere and environment is a mixture of both modern and familiar. The use of furniture, light fixtures, and wall designs evoke a premium and contemporary feeling, while the floor tile design brings to mind traditional kopitiams many locals are used to. Although there aren’t any live performances here, guests will still be awed when they witness the open kitchen with live cooking stations preparing their lunch and dinner. Be ready for so many choices of Malaysian heritage cuisines of Indian, Chinese, and Malay dishes. You’ll also enjoy the selection of modern western dishes if you’re preferring a more western taste. Open to guests everyday, the breakfast buffet is available from 6.00am to 10.30pm while lunch and dinner will be served from 12pm to 10pm.

Hilton KK’s F&B outlets give guests so many options to choose from when it comes to how they want to spend their time there or what type of atmosphere they’d like to enjoy their food in. Come as you are, Hilton KK invites guests from all walks of life to enjoy the best of what Hilton has to offer in Kota Kinabalu.

by Noel Jinguli

Image | Hilton Kota Kinabalu

Hilton Kota Kinabalu Poolside Bar & Grill

Hilton Kota Kinabalu Urban Kitchen

Hilton Kota Kinabalu Rooftop Bar & Grill

movies

city cineplex november 2022 movies

SHADOW MASTER

Release Date: 3 November 2022

Genre: Action

Director: Pearry Reginald Teo

Cast: D.Y. Sao, Layton Matthews, Brian Le

After being slain by a group of criminals, a man is reborn with superpowers and makes it his mission to right the wrongs of his city.

BP: WAKANDA FOREVER

Release Date: 10 November 2022

Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama

Director: Ryan Coogler

Cast: Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira

The people of Wakanda fight to protect their home from intervening world powers as they mourn the death of King T’Challa.

THE MENU

Release Date: 17 November 2022

Genre: Comedy, Horror, Thriller

Director: Mark Mylod

Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Fiennes, Nicholas Hoult

A couple travels to a coastal island to eat at an exclusive restaurant where the chef has prepared a shocking lavish menu and surprises.

STRANGE WORLD

Release Date: 24 November 2022

Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure

Director: Don Hall, Qui Nguyen

Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Jaboukie Young-White, Gabrielle Union

The legendary Clades are a family of explorers whose differences threaten to topple their latest and most crucial mission.

BONES AND ALL

Release Date: 24 November 2022

Genre: Drama, Horror, Romance

Director: Luca Guadagnino

Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Taylor Russell, Mark Rylance

The journey of a young woman on the margins of society and a disenfranchised drifter leads back to their terrifying pasts and a final stand.

SHE SAID

Release Date: 24 November 2022

Genre: Drama

Director: Maria Schrader

Cast: Carey Mulligan, Zoe Kazan, Patricia Clarkson

New York Times reporters Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor break one of the most important stories in a generation on sexual assault in Hollywood.

music

One of the biggest music events in Sabah is the annual Kota Kinabalu Music & Dance Festival. After 2 years of absence due to the pandemic, The 27th edition is happening next month on 10th -11th December 2022 at Shangri-la Tanjung Aru Resort, Kota Kinabalu. Hundreds of young participants with their families and friends will be present to perform in a friendly competitive spirit, sharing the joy of music making with one another.

Over the years this festival has evolved into thematic excitement and we can expect many will don costumes and fashionable attire that befit the music they display.

This year’s festival will see many keyboard, strings, drums, guitar players and dancers expressing the many genres of music spanning from the 17th century to now. Aside from competitions, there will be various workshops such as Swing dance, Drums and a music education forum in the festival which is free for all participants and day pass ticket holders.

The public is more than welcome to experience the extravaganza by purchasing tickets at the festival itself.

Kota Kinabalu Music & Dance Festival is organised by Kota Kinabalu Music Society. To raise the standards of the arts and it’s appreciation for the betterment of the community and instilling the spirit of togetherness remain the core objectives of the Kota Kinabalu Music Society, an NGO that was started in 1973.

A very special 40 children’s choir was formed by the society in August this year and the support of the parents and music teachers around has been overwhelming and truly reflected not only the ethnic diversity but also the unity amongst the people here. This choir will make its inaugural performance in the festival.

For more information, go to www.kkmusicfestival.my or email kkmusicsociety@gmail.com

27TH KOTA KINABALU MUSIC & DANCE FESTIVAL

Image | KK Music Festival

When Apple first introduced the truly wireless Airpods to the public, not a lot of consumers thought much of it. Fast forward a few years however, Apple’s Airpods have become the industry standard for wireless earbuds everywhere. Year by year, they’ve made significant improvements for a better user experience, and this year is no different. The Airpods Pro 2 are here and let’s take a look at what Apple has to offer for their flagship earbuds.

The most noticeable difference in the new Airpods Pro 2 is the use of a new H2 chip. With the new chip, Apple managed to deliver smarter noise cancellation, superior surround sound, and improved the battery life of the earbuds. It’s also able to tune, process, and “customise” the audio to suit your ear shape, better immersing you with your music. Apple has also worked on the drivers and amplifiers to provide lower distortion during music playback. This allows listeners to hear deeper bass and crisper trebles across all volume levels.

Noise cancellation is also a big focus in the latest Airpods Pro 2. With the new chip and drivers, Apple was able to provide up to twice the amount of active noise cancellation (ANC) compared to the previous model. With the ANC on, nothing will interrupt your listening. Wouldn’t it be too dangerous if you can’t hear anything around you? Well, with Apple’s new Adaptive Transparency turned on, you would still be able to comfortably hear your surroundings while the H2 chip will help minimise loud noises.

We talked about the H2 chip improving the battery life, but how does it compare to its predecessor? Well, the previous model allowed up to 4.5 hours of listening, with a total of 24 hours when using the case. The newer Airpods Pro 2 can now allow listeners

up to 6 hours of listening, with a total of 30 hours when using the case. Both these stats were measured with ANC turned on as well. Even the case was improved to make it more convenient to charge and find when lost with Magsafe technology and speakers respectively.

However, even though functions are new and improved with everything wrapped up in a sleek package, I can’t say that these are for everyone. Typical of Apple, only those who are invested in Apple’s ecosystem of products are able to fully utilise the Airpods Pro 2. Android and Windows users alike will miss most of the functions offered by the new design, and can only use these like basic earbuds. Otherwise, these might just be the best wireless earbuds on the market now.

by Noel Jinguli Image | Apple.com

Hearing the future of Apple’s Airpod Pro 2

automotive

The Day Cult Came To Town

few months back, we mentioned that a certain big automotive event was coming up and we should be excited for it. Well, when the day came, it was exactly what we hoped for and just a little bit more. That was the day CULT (Cars, Urban & Lifestyle Trends) came in and set a standard for car shows in Borneo.

What makes CULT special is the fact that it’s the first and biggest indoor car show in Borneo. Set in the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), it easily fit more than 100 cars for show to the public. These cars range from your JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) classics and offroad British beasts, to the sleekest Italian exotic cars in Sabah and everything in between. Bike lovers were also treated to a few cafe racers and Vespa scooters as well.

So, what grabbed my eye during the 3-day CULT event? Well for starters, I drooled over a super clean (and presumably) stock Honda CR-X on display. There were also a number of Nissan GTRs there, but the one I was surprised to see was an R33 with what looked to be drag tyres put at the back. In terms of the Italian cars, there were two Aventadores with matching brushed steel and copper wraps, plus a few Ferraris, but I was more surprised to see some Alfa Romeo 156 GTAs in the mix.

The Sabah Land Rover Club was also present, showcasing multiple Land Rovers capable of traversing rough terrain. Some of these were even equipped with tents and other camping gear to prepare explorers with anything. Speaking of camp gear, a Volkswagen Combi bus prepped for “van life” was also on the show floor as well. However, a more extreme modification I witnessed was an Isuzu D-Max with a quad-turbo setup.

CULT was officially launched by Datuk Abidin Madingkir during the first day of the event. He had the chance to walk around the hall and meet with the car owners and listen to their stories regarding the cars. The local diecast car club also set up some booths too, attracting all sorts of car collectors alike. Plus, 200 more cars were showcased outside of SICC as well.

For me personally, the event is a huge stepping stone in Kota Kinabalu’s automotive scene. Although it could’ve showcased more types of cars, the ones showcased there were enough to make any car lover drool or cheer in excitement. Let’s hope this event can become an annual thing for everyone to enjoy in the future.

by Noel Jinguli Image | Noel Jinguli

destination

Clear waters and fresh air, that’s what is always on the minds of would be vacationers. Well, if you drive down to Sipitang, you’ll find just that in the form of Meligan Villa Resort. Offering facilities for rest and relaxation, to activities that cater to the family, this beautiful site is the perfect getaway for you and your loved ones.

Located approximately 70 kilometres from Sipitang town, Meligan Villa Resort is a riverside homestay catered to every family and the adventurous types out there. The resort provides a campsite for those who like the great outdoors, while those preferring to remain indoors can stay at the home provided. Guests are welcome to enjoy the food prepared by the resort at the cafe, or grill yourself a buffet if you prefer barbequing the food yourself.

Speaking of which, there are an abundance of activities to choose from with how you want to spend your stay. You can try out a catch and release fishing experience, go hike to the Sumaki and Lamparion waterfalls, or spend the evening with fireflies lighting up the night view. Kids can also have fun by visiting the rabbit farm or feeding the fish. Personally, I’d either enjoy a relaxing ride on the bamboo raft or go for a bike ride to view the sites of nearby villages.

Meligan Villa Resort also gives you a chance to get in tune with the cultural side of Sipitang. You can try out traditional dishes prepared authentically. All the while, enjoy and join in the traditional dances presented specially for guests. You’ll also get to learn and take part in traditional games and activities. The resort is also prepared to set up team building activities upon request.

Be prepared for a unique experience when visiting Meligan Villa Resort. Whether visiting with family or friends, each visit will surely tell a different story. Because at Meligan Villa Resort, the adventure is all up to you.

by Noel Jinguli Image | Meligan Villa Resort

Sipitang’s Meligan Villa Resort

What is a Coocup exactly? It’s an edible cup made from the simplest of ingredients. Of course we can’t let you in on the industry secret but what we can tell you is that they’re basically a cup made like a cookie. They’re 100% biodegradable, plastic free, and can withstand up to 100 degrees celsius for up to an hour. You can definitely snack on the cups after finishing your drink and they won’t alter the taste of your drinks whatsoever. The Coocup is the perfect substitution of one-time use cups for any occasion.

There are now 5.25 trillion macro and micro pieces of plastic in our oceans and 46,000 pieces in every square mile of ocean, weighing up to 269,000 tonnes. Everyday around 8 million pieces of plastic make their way into our oceans. When we

Coocups, they provide a fun and healthy way of rethinking the way we use cups in general. Apart from providing a more environmentally friendly solution, Coocups also acts as healthy snacks that can aid with digestion and other health benefits through the nutrition it provides.

Coocup is definitely an innovative idea and we’re certain it can shake up the food and beverage industry in the future. Not only will it change how we use our cups, but imagine how much we can save and reduce the carbon footprint by changing plastic cups to edible cups which can degrade naturally within a few weeks time. Supporting these types of innovations will surely do more good to our environment as a whole and plastic waste will hopefully be the least of our problems in the long run.

TUN ADNAN SPORTS

TUN ADNAN SPORTS

TUN ADNAN SPORTS

An Integrated Sports Complex

An Integrated Sports Complex

An Integrated Sports Complex

e Yayasan Sabah Group’s contribution to the state of Sabah aren’t limited to education and social development. It’s also recognised as the pioneer, leaders, innovators, and growth facilities in Sabah’s commercial and industrial sectors. It also provides a one-stop sports arena for all walks of life.

e Yayasan Sabah Group’s contribution to the state of Sabah limited to education and social development. It’s also recognised pioneer, leaders, innovators, and growth facilities in commercial and industrial sectors. It also provides a one-stop

e Tun Adnan Sports Complex adjacent to the Menara Tun Mustapha, Yayasan Sabah Group’s headquaters houses multiple courts for di erent sports such as six futsal courts, four badminton courts, two netball courts, one volleyball court, one synthetic football eld and a petanque pitch.

e Tun Adnan Sports Complex adjacent to the Menara Mustapha, Yayasan Sabah Group’s headquaters houses multiple for di erent sports such as six futsal courts, four badminton two netball courts, one volleyball court, one synthetic football

Additionally, visitors can enjoy hair cut, re exology, beauty parlour and a multipurpose room suitable for indoor activities such as zumba, yoga, chess, table tennis, and carrom.

Additionally, visitors can enjoy hair cut, re exology, beauty and a multipurpose room suitable for indoor activities such as

Still not convinced on the size of the complex? It can accommodate up to 3000 spectators at a time. e biggest crowd recorded in attendance was for a futsal tournament that saw more than 2000 spectators. is year alone, the Tun Adnan Sports Complex held major tournaments organised by di erent organisations. Among them the U12 Futsal Tournament by MILO and another futsal tournament organised by the Sabah Youth Council. e Sabah Handball Association organised their tournament there, while the Toh Puan Cup Netball Tournament was also held at the complex. In 2002, it was used as the venue for judo events during SUKMA Games 2002.

e Yayasan Sabah Group’s contribution to the state of Sabah aren’t limited to education and social development. It’s also recognised as the year alone, the Tun Adnan Sports Complex held major tournaments organised by di erent organisations. Among them the U12 Futsal Tournament by MILO and another futsal tournament organised by the Sabah Youth Council. e Sabah Handball Association organised their tournament there, while the Toh Puan Cup Netball Tournament was also held at the complex. In 2002, it was used as the venue for judo events during SUKMA Games 2002.

Still not convinced on the size of the complex? It can accommodate to 3000 spectators at a time. e biggest crowd recorded in attendance was for a futsal tournament that saw more than 2000 spectators. year alone, the Tun Adnan Sports Complex held major tournaments organised by di erent organisations. Among them the U12 Tournament by MILO and another futsal tournament organised Sabah Youth Council. e Sabah Handball Association organised tournament there, while the Toh Puan Cup Netball Tournament also held at the complex. In 2002, it was used as the venue

SPORTS COMPLEX

TUN ADNAN SPORTS COMPLEX

SPORTS COMPLEX for All

for All

An Integrated Sports Complex for All

More than just having an abundance of facilities the Tun Adnan Sports Complex is also popular among sports enthusiasts. What makes it di erent compared to other sports complexes and arenas around Kota Kinabalu is the cheaper facility rates. e strategic location near the city is also a factor for it’s popularity. Accordingly the complex isn’t only popular among the public but also government sta as well.

e Yayasan Sabah Group’s contribution to the state of Sabah aren’t limited to education and social development. It’s also recognised as the pioneer, leaders, innovators, and growth facilities in Sabah’s commercial and industrial sectors. It also provides a one-stop sports arena for all walks of life.

More than just having an abundance of facilities the Tun Adnan Sports Complex is also popular among sports enthusiasts. What makes it di erent compared to other sports complexes and arenas around Kota Kinabalu is the cheaper facility rates. e strategic location near the city is also a factor for it’s popularity. Accordingly the complex isn’t only popular among the public but also government sta as well.

e Tun Adnan Sports Complex adjacent to the Menara Tun Mustapha, Yayasan Sabah Group’s headquaters houses multiple courts for di erent sports such as six futsal courts, four badminton courts, two netball courts, one volleyball court, one synthetic football eld and a petanque pitch.

Yayasan Sabah Group is doing a fantastic job in providing and creating opportunities for everyone to stay active and t through sports. e Tun Adnan Sports Complex provides everyone multiple sports facilities all under one roof and accessible to all.

Yayasan Sabah Group is doing a fantastic job in providing and creating opportunities for everyone to stay active and t through sports. e Tun Adnan Sports Complex provides everyone multiple sports facilities all under one roof and accessible to all.

Additionally, visitors can enjoy hair cut, re exology, beauty parlour and a multipurpose room suitable for indoor activities such as zumba, yoga, chess, table tennis, and carrom.

By Noel Jinguli

By Noel Jinguli

to you by Yayasan Sabah Group

Brought to you by Yayasan Sabah

Group

Still not convinced on the size of the complex? It can accommodate up to 3000 spectators at a time. e biggest crowd recorded in attendance was for a futsal tournament that saw more than 2000 spectators. is year alone, the Tun Adnan Sports Complex held major tournaments organised by di erent organisations. Among them the U12 Futsal Tournament by MILO and another futsal tournament organised by the Sabah Youth Council. e Sabah Handball Association organised their tournament there, while the Toh Puan Cup Netball Tournament was also held at the complex. In 2002, it was used as the venue for judo

Brought

personality

ANDREW NISBET: STEERING THE HELM ONTO GREATER HEIGHTS

Breeze Magazine had the chance to sit down and get an exclusive insight into the life of the man occupying the top job at Kota Kinabalu’s Hilton Hotel: General Manager, Andrew Nisbet. With great spontaneity and humour, he discussed – among other things –his journey up the hospitality industry’s ladder, Hilton’s handling of the pandemic’s effect on tourism, and the goals he seeks to accomplish within the next few years.

Andrew Nisbet

Breeze (B): Greetings Mr. Nisbet! Could you briefly introduce yourself?

Andrew (A): Sure! My name is Andrew from the UK, I am General Manager at the Hilton Kota Kinabalu. I’ve been in hospitality, which I enjoy enormously, for over 30 years – 25 of those with Hilton.

B: Was entering the hotel industry a lifelong ambition of yours?

A: It was never intentional; I just sort of fell into it. I got my start in hospitality before completing my studies. I took a job in the industry and have enjoyed it ever since. I’m someone who naturally takes pleasure in meeting people, which is what originally attracted me to this line of work: every day is a different day and a new opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life, from the staff to the clientele.

B: You have held positions at various levels. Which post do you feel you were the most challenged in, and why?

A: Working in the Operation was much harder but more enjoyable. It brought lots of different challenges that sometimes you could not control, whereas as a General Manager, you can control many aspects of what you do. When I was in the Operation, I was governed by things that would change the dynamics of what I was doing. It was a lot of hard work, and much more physical.

B: Upon arriving in Malaysia, how great was the culture shock within the work climate? And how did you adjust?

A: Well, I spent five and a half years in Vietnam before coming to Kota Kinabalu. The big culture change was moving from Australia to Vietnam, which still operates under a very different system. It was quite a challenge to understand how the dynamics of that country work, and the impact that the government has on people’s lives and businesses. It taught me a lot about how to assimilate and settle into a different culture.

B: What attracted you to join the Hilton Kota Kinabalu?

A: I had been to Kota Kinabalu before – only to visit – and always found it to be a very friendly place. The pace is much slower, which means people take time with each other and are interested in getting to know you. I say hello to so many people daily, within and outside of my work. It’s fantastic and truly makes you feel welcomed. When the opportunity arose to come here, it was not a difficult choice whatsoever!

B: What does a normal day at work look like for you?

A: The first thing I do in the morning is walk around the property, look at the restaurant, the meeting rooms, the swimming pools, just ensuring everything is set up for the day, meeting the team and the customers. Then it is a combination of ensuring the business is going in the right direction and ensuring that the strategies we have set are in place. And then the rest of the day is

about meeting the team, catching up with customers, generally being around… It is a nice job, actually! You get the chance to be social and be with people. This makes it sound quite easy, doesn’t it? [laughs]

B: You started working here in 2020, which was notoriously a terrible period for the tourism economy. How did you navigate through and handle this crisis?

A: As I said, I came into this industry because I like meeting people, and suddenly there weren’t any! It was probably the most difficult part of my career, this lack of interaction. We had very few team members – only 26 working. We knew things would change; it was simply a matter of how long it would take. We all stuck with it and came through, and now I’m starting to see KK as it should be.

B: What would you qualify as the three most vital qualities for someone to possess to thrive in your position?

A: The first I can think of is resilience, which you need through many challenges and expectations. Expectations from customers, from companies, from team members, from yourself. Another one would be integrity. You must be honest about what you are doing and never lose sight of why you are doing it. Lastly, I would say you should be very understanding of people. If you can understand people’s needs, you will get through much better. When required, you must be flexible to accommodate those needs. Oh, and good humour! We all take some things too seriously, including ourselves. You must be able to laugh.

B: What are your ambitions for the future of the hotel? Are there goals you have yet to achieve?

A: Yes, lots. We’re still only in our growing phase. Although we never closed, the pandemic has stifled a lot of what we do. There are loads of aspects that we have not quite mastered yet when it comes to re-energizing the whole hotel. So, I think moving forward, our big focus will be on the Food & Beverage opportunities. Really looking at our restaurants and bars and figuring out ways to reposition them to become – if not the number one – a preferred restoration option in KK. I want the restaurants to acquire a reputation for offering good value for money. We are trying to drop the intimidating perception that five-star hotels are excessively expensive for the sake of prestige. It’s all about breaking down that barrier, which is a real challenge. But I believe we are on the right track to achieving this goal, it will ultimately come from consistency.

by Lisa Aveline Image | Radzie Rahman

Sabah Community Services Council (mpms)

Welfare Month (known as Welfare Week before 2007) has been organised by the Sabah Community Services Council (MPMS) every year since 1997.

The recommendation to hold the Welfare Month stems from several things that need to be given attention and pressure by the government and the community. One of them is the need for the community to know up-to-date information about social services and welfare assistance provided by the government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs). In addition, devotional services and contributions, especially in the field of welfare, are noble values that are highly praised by all levels of society.

This program is held in collaboration with the Sabah Welfare and General Services Department, MPMS member organisations and identified departments, agencies, and NGOs.

The theme for the year 2022 is “Health and Wellbeing for Every Child”.

Nowadays, the social issues faced by children in Malaysia are increasing even more due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among them are malnutrition, mental health, adolescent health, inclusive education, violence, abuse and neglect, and early marriage among children (UNICEF, 2020). The Sabah Community Services Council or MPMS for short has held several programs to preserve the well-being of children starting in 2021.

This effort continues through collaboration with UNICEF in 2022 to highlight critical issues that affect children’s lives and support the involvement of children and young people to voice their own rights through the Welfare Month Program and World Children’s Day Celebration 2022.

For more information and schedule of programmes: 010-288 3424 Majlis Perkhidmatan Masyarakat Sabah | Bulan Kebajikan 2022 mpms.sabahgmail.com

fitness Resistance training

As we’ve written about previously, not everyone that starts resistance training has to aim to be a competitive bodybuilder, have chiseled six pack abs, be a social media fitfluencer, or look like Chris Hemsworth. There are plenty of important health benefits that you can reap out of exercising! We would even go as far as to say that the health aspect of exercising should be held even higher as a personal goal when you start working out. Here are a few reasons you should start training today!

When we introduce resistance training into our lives, it doesn’t just help us build and strengthen contractile tissue (Muscle Tissue), but also connective tissues like our tendons and ligaments. This in turn would carry over to improving long term joint health. Though this may not be the case for everyone, many that experienced joint pains prior to lifting have even gotten rid of these aches entirely! Contrary to popular belief, having joint aches should not discourage you from taking up strength program, it may even be beneficial to your wellbeing.

Next, there are also a number of studies done that even just 30-60 minutes of muscle-strengthening activities can improve aerobic capacity and lower risk for all-cause mortality, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, type-2 diabetes and more! In layman terms, just 30-60 minutes of resistance training a week would help you reap a host of health benefits that you should target regardless of the level of athlete you are, or even if you aren’t.

Aside from the physical benefits, exercise in general has also been proven to be highly beneficial in improving our mental health. Regular exercise can have a positive impact on depression and anxiety. It can also act as stress-relief, balance hormones, help you sleep better and boost overall mood. This is because exercise releases endorphins in the brain. When the body feels better, so does the mind.

To sum this all up, even if your goals are not cosmetic or performance-based, you should exercise simply for the myriad of health benefits it provides. We hope this helped you change your outlook on exercise or even started you off on your own fitness journey.

Personal Training, Nutrition Coaching and Group Classes

Available now at Hustle Fitness! Reach us through Instagram or Facebook to book a slot!

by Joshua Tsen Image | Unsplash

As we work in the current fast paced lifestyle and with everything getting back on track after Covid-19, the ups and downs of the economy pushes the majority to work tirelessly to make ends meet. However, with the past lockdown experience, and the habits of working from home – it is no doubt that burn out occurrences are more likely to happen regularly. We get so used to the life of working from home, and once office is reopen, it takes more effort into adjusting back to the office hours, and let’s not forget the traffic jams.

Burn outs however are very normal, and with everyone working diligently - Taking time off is important and we want you to be able to recharge from time-to-time, mentally and physically. What can you do when your budget is limited for travels?

Book a pamper session to treat yourself!

It can be the comfortable salon hair wash that comes with a good head massage, or the full body massage everyone has been raving about. While pamper sessions are more commonly enjoyed for the lovely ladies, men can opt for them just as well. These sessions allow time off and for you to shut down from technology for at least an hour or two.

Road trips to the wild outdoors!

Road trips are great family bonding time where you get to enjoy fresh air from mother nature and also build closer relationships with family and friends. We have the magnificent view from the riverbanks of Kota Belud and all the way up to Kundasang for camping options to fully immerse yourself in zen mode. No laptops are encouraged, due to limited electricity ports, hence you get to fully focus on connecting and relax your soul.

BURN OUT CHILL OUT

WELLNESS

Book a hotel like a tourist!

If going to the wild outdoors is not your cup of tea, choose a nice fancy hotel and book yourself a staycation. Enjoying your very own city like a tourist lets you experience the city differently. Hotels are a great cheat to unwind and relax because the beds are comfier, the bathtub is perfect for that hot tub relaxation, varied facilities and restaurants to try out and sometimes they come with a nice view too! It’s perfect for the city folks who prefers some city lights and the lifestyle.

Work on your hobby!

If you prefer being homebound and just wind down in the comfort of your home, there are various activities to work on to ease the burn out away. Work on that hobby that you always wanted to start, read that book that your friend recommended, binge watch that latest HBO series or ironically, clean your room that needs a breather. Therapeutic sessions can be done right in the comfort of your home, sometimes catching up with rest and sleep is a good refresher from burn out as well.

If you tried all that is listed and you still feel like you’re hanging by a thread and your burn out has not been cured - my friend, it is probably time to save up for that Cuti-Cuti Malaysia adventure. But until then, take everything slow and at your own pace, you will be able to focus better and also manage anxiety better.

by Geraldine Yong Image | Unsplash

Stop Grinding your teeth

Not many are aware of this, but one of the bigger oral issues today isn’t being talked about much. Tooth grinding is just something people aren’t aware of because of a perceived insignificance towards its effects on our oral health. With Dr. Sylvia Lim of Phi Dental, let’s take a closer look at tooth grinding and why we should be more careful with this habit.

Scientifically, tooth grinding is known as bruxism, a condition where people tend to grind, gnash, or clench their teeth. Some may exhibit it unconsciously when they’re awake (awake bruxism) while others during their sleep (sleep bruxism). Those in the latter category might be considered to have sleep related movement disorder and are more likely to snore or experience sleep apnea. Mild bruxism may not be a huge issue. However, frequent and severe cases can lead to jaw disorders, headaches, damaged teeth, and multiple other issues.

Bruxism may be due to a combination of physical, psychological, and genetic factors. Anxiety, stress, anger, frustration, or tension might cause a person to start grinding their teeth as a coping strategy. In general, bruxism can wear out the enamel of our teeth, cause fractures and chips, and increase tooth sensitivity. You might even tire the jaw muscle or lock it up, causing difficulty to open or close it. During sleep bruxism, you might make loud noises that wake your partner up. It might also disrupt your sleep.

The effects of bruxism can be fixed or relieved. Through a dental approach, dentists will suggest using splints or mouth guards designed to separate teeth. In severe cases, a dental correction might also be applied to the affected teeth. Since stress may also be a factor, learning to manage your stress through behavioural change may help stop you from grinding your teeth. You can consciously practise proper mouth and jaw position to avoid teeth grinding.

One other method is through medication, however it isn’t highly recommended since more research still needs to be done. You should always ask your dentist for advice with medication related to muscle relaxants and botox injections. Stress relief medication might also be of help but do take them with caution and with medical advice beforehand.

At the end of the day, anyone can experience teeth grinding no matter if they’re adults or kids. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of bruxism and to always seek regular dental care. Most importantly, consult your dentists first before making any decision to solve your teeth grinding issues.

by Noel Jinguli Image | Unsplash

NOT ENOUGH BONE THICKNESS FOR IMPLANT?

Phi Dental helps regenerate the bone for implant

RANTS & RAVES

Team Budget or Team Comfort?

Border restrictions have been lifted and everyone is out travelling to get the best out of the post-covid trauma. The year end is literally weeks away as we close October and enter the holiday season, travel plans are flooding in with school holidays and family getaway sessions. Which also mean, the traffic will start being everyone’s worst nightmare. So, time to get your tickets out of the country for that long- awaited vacation! But wait – Did you know your travel experience is dependent on your travel buddies?

It is important to find the right companion or group to travel that matches your personal style of travel. Different types of travelers have their own distinct way of travelling and any form of inconsideration will cause grumpy faces and regrets. When I say this, it is meant for everyone you are planning to travel with regardless of family and friends. Sometimes, your best friend’s travel style might not be compatible to yours, you may opt for 5 star hotel stays while your friend prefers a budget hostel. You may enjoy street food, but they have a sensitive stomach and prefer dine-in restaurants. Whichever it maybe, it could lead to frustration along the trip.

However, if found the right kin, you’ll be able to enjoy stress-free travel.

Luxury travel are a yay or nay, often travelers would opt for a reasonable budget and even self-plan their itinerary to save on costs and maximize the travels. Whereas we have luxury travelers who are willing to spend for the experience and comfort. Living in high-end resorts and hotels, dining in Michelin stars rated

restaurants and shopping at the luxurious exclusive brands. Let’s not even talk about the first-class plane tickets. Although it is a dream lifestyle to many – the minority and occasionally not necessarily for the rich only, we have people who appreciate high-quality travel experiences. I guess it is the sight of value for every individual, if the money we worked hard for is not spent on the best for ourselves, then what it is for, right? Enjoying life to the fullest hassle free. Tour packages are among alternatives for similar style of travel where everything is pre- arranged and focused on comfort.

Interestingly as you travel, you get to experience secondhand embarrassment as well, when you travel with budget buddies –you know, the ones who hoard hotel shampoos and freebies? As Asian as I am in this; and well we do have relatives who would do this. Guilty as charged! Budget travelers however are the most accommodating and usually flexible with anything as long as it is reasonable to their wallets. Aside from getting the budget hostel which is sometimes risky, overall you will get great bargains and the best price during your travel. Perfect if shopping is part of the bucket list! A trip planned and well organized will save on cost and help you find good food on a budget.

So which would you choose? Comfort or budget?

by Geraldine Yong Image | Unsplash

POP CULTURE

Iconic Hotels in Movies

Hotels. You see them everywhere. In real life, in songs and music videos, and especially in movies, those who have hawk eyes will notice some famous hotels featured in these mediums of entertainment. However, it isn’t always the biggest names in the hotel world that tend to stick in people’s minds rather how the characters interact with the hotel or what happens in the hotel is what makes it iconic. Here are a few iconic hotels from famous movies through the years.

The Cherry Tree Inn Bed And Breakfast is certain to evoke a sense of deja vu to anyone who’s familiar with the movie Groundhog Day. This movie starred Bill Murray as Phil Connors. It’s about the adventures of Phil repeating groundhog day everyday for who knows how long, starting each day in the Cherry Tree Inn. Speaking of the inn, it’s located in Illinois and guests can actually stay in it. Lori and George Miarecki, who are the proprietors, bought the 19th-century Victorian mansion in 2017 and renovated the building so everyone can enjoy it. Just how Phil Connors enjoyed his stay there.

This next hotel inspired one of the biggest horror books and movies ever, The Shining. The Stanley Hotel, or better known as Overlook Hotel in Stephen King’s work, is located in Colorado. It became the inspiration for the Overlook Hotel during King’s brief stay there in the 70’s. In the movie, a family stays in said hotel where a sinister presence influences the father into violence, while his psychic son sees horrific visions of the past and future.

One of the most iconic scenes is the image of ghostly twin girls standing side by side, wanting to “play” with the psychic child. Stanley Hotel is also available to stay in and even organises ghost tours for guests who are interested.

Home Alone 2 was the sequel of the popular Home Alone movie, and contrary to most popular, this sequel was actually as fun to watch as the first movie. The premise is almost the same, but instead of protecting himself from the robbers, Kevin McAllistair was stuck in New York alone after accidentally switching flights. There, he used his father’s credit card to stay at one of the most luxurious hotels around, the Plaza Hotel. The mischief Kevin caused in the hotel included ordering massive amounts of room service, tricking and scaring the staff, among other things. Fun fact, it costs around 20,000 USD per night to stay at the Plaza Hotel.

Honourable mentions go to The Grand Budapest Hotel and Hotel Transylvania. Remember, a hotel alone doesn’t make it iconic, the fanfare comes from audience reception itself. So in the end, even if the movie is great, the audiences are who determine what is iconic.

by Noel Jinguli Image | Various Sources

He was worked with many A-listers such as Miss World 2022 Karolina Bielawska, Miss Grand International 2021 Tien Ng, Fasha Sandha, Randy Pangalila (Indonesia artist), Amber Chia, amongst others. To keep your skin healthy and always pretty follow

@azmierhisyamuqris

SPAGHETTI CARBONARA

INGREDIENTS

• Pasta

• Mushroom & chicken ham (optional)

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/4 cup nestle cream

• 1 tsp butter

• Chopped garlic

• 2 tbsp of parmesan

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil

METHOD

1. Medium heat pan, add oil stir in chopped garlic until brown then stir in mushroom & ham.

2. Add cream, cheese & water mixed well.

3. Add pasta, season with salt & pepper.

4. Shredded cheese on top and ready to serve.

by Beverly Chow www.quicktakesorder.blogspot.com Image | Beverly Chow

restaurant review

urban kitchen: The World At Your Plate

Urban Kitchen

restaurant which comes with a splendid interior: a balance of refinery and sleek modernity with its marble counters and hardwood tables.

Having conversed with the Executive Sous-Chef, Qayyum Rashid, I can attest that each meal is created with expertise and a genuine passion for food. Having never followed a formal culinary training, Mr Rashid considers his many travels to be his main source of learning experience. Indeed, with each place he has visited, he has managed to master the local cuisine; having been to the Middle East, Japan, France, Thailand, Australia, and so much more, one can imagine the vast extent of his knowledge when it comes to foreign dishes. This expertise is well reflected in the variety of meals on the menu, and I was very enthusiastic to try some out.

We started off the evening with Mexican appetisers: a simple platter of four beef tacos. People tend to have their own formed opinion on what constitutes a ‘good’ taco. Nevertheless, I can confidently testify that these were most definitely good. In between the crispy tortilla, a delightful blend of beef ragout and kimchi salsa, which you can dip into a thick honey gochujang paste for a bit of a spicy touch. Most definitely a strong start.

We were then presented with three different soups, one of which was the Clam Miso Soup, a warm cocktail of fresh local clams, miso paste, scallions, and seaweed. This was one of the many dishes originated from Mr Rashid’s love of Japanese cuisine, and it certainly paid it a splendid honour. In addition to its tasty flavour, the soup is one of the healthiest meals in Japan, with the clams providing protein – as well as a distinct additional flavour – and the seaweed providing vitamins and minerals. Overall, a great choice for a starter, and one I can hardly recommend enough.

Main courses are often said to be the central part of a meal, one which people will be most likely to remember. I agree. Which is why I was particularly looking forward to ours and thrilled to remark that it most certainly lived up to my expectations. We had the Pan-Fried Snapper, one of the dishes marked as “signature” on the menu card. The snapper was cooked to perfection, with a crisp top layer and velvety flesh, all under a thin layer of sambal gelek and ginger floss. The fish was resting above two grilled asparagus, which were themselves placed on top of a delicious coconut risotto.

Clients have the option to order some ‘add-ons’ along with their chosen dish, and the one we were served ended up being my personal favourite: the Thai Butter Rice. As the name suggests, this dish honours Thailand cuisine through its perfumed aromas and succulent taste. The presentation itself is rather simple, with a yellow-coloured portion of rice mixed with raisins. The result, however, is much more complex: your taste buds are immediately filled with what appears to be a bouquet of exotic flavours, with the raisins providing a sweet addition. While the butter rice can

is Hilton Kota Kinabalu’s modern

complement any of the main dishes on the menu, its rich consistency ensures that it can also be a stand-alone bite if you’re not especially hungry.

Another highlight for me came from the specialty course: the Arabic Mixed Grill, which as you can guess is a direct reference to Middle Eastern cuisine. And while it was not marked as a signature dish, I believe it certainly deserves the title. Presented on a beautiful black matte plate, the traditionally marinated beef kebabs emanated a mouthwatering scent of barbecued grill and was infused with smoky flavours of spices. But despite my appreciation of the kebabs, the lamb kofta was what truly cemented this dish as one of the best I’d had: the meat came off incredibly easily and seamlessly melted after a few chews. The dish was accompanied by a Fattoush salad, consisting of mixed greens and tomatoes, and served with a creamy and luscious cup of garlic yoghurt as a dip. Mwah!

We then came across another Japanese nod with the Kani Salad, which consists of thinly trimmed crab sticks piled up and topped off with chuka wakame (Japanese seaweed) and tobiko (flying fish roe). The mix was seasoned with yuzu mayo, a rich, tangy, and sweet condiment, finely contrasting the fresh taste of the crab sticks. In most restaurants, salads tend to be regarded as side dishes. Urban Kitchen, however, offers fuller portions for the same value. A true steal, and a delicious one!

For the final touch to this delectable feast, we were presented with a crème brûlée. Although the last dish of the evening, it certainly served as a wrap-up highlight. With its caramelised sugar top-layer, the pastry melts under the tongue before you’ve truly had time to process its delicious taste. The thin custard is light and airy, expertly baked with a felt knowledge of French cuisine. A pure delight.

That evening I walked in with high expectations and the Urban Kitchen met – and exceeded – all of them. For an affordable price, their menu takes clients on a journey around the world and gives them the opportunity to get a (literal) taste of every culture, all from the comfort of a lush and luxurious setting.

Whether you are looking to discover adventurous new flavours or in the mood for familiar local foods, be assured: there is something for you.

Arabic Mixed Grill

Kani Salad

Mee Curry Nyonya

Masala Chai Crème Brûlée

Pan-Fried Snapper

Thai Butter Rice

Beef Tacos

Clam Miso Soup

by Lisa Aveline

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

nightlife

COVINDIAN | 29 OCTOBER 2022

A fun and laughter standup comedy night with Keren Bala Devan and Andrew Neto.

nightlife

HALLOWEEN MINI EVENT | DOMINO’S BUNDUSAN

| 31 OCTOBER 2022

Hosted by Isekai Fest Borneo’s creative team, Halloween Mini Event is a special Halloween themed gathering of friends eating pizza while cosplaying. The event featured a Halloween-themed photo booth, #GenshinImpactxDominos collectibles giveaway, cosplayers and customers in their halloween costume.

Image | Isekai Fest Borneo

nightlife

FUNKY FRIDAY | 28 OCTOBER 2022 | THE CLUB, HILTON KOTA KINABALU

Image | Radzie Rahman