BiG Magazine April/June 2024 Issue

Editor’s Note

Food, festivities, and fun. The lead up to this April issue has been an absolute whirlwind, particularly in Brunei; the proximity of Chinese New Year, Isra’ Mikraj, and our 40th National Day of Independence left us with many days of celebration and reflection, something perhaps more acquainted with the later half of the year. In between all that, exciting art and fashion, a most delectable fine dining experience with Mori Farm and some very special guests to Brunei.

We decided to set our sights further afield on neighbouring Sarawak for this issue, inspired by my trip last year to Kuching for the Asean International Film Festival. The sheer amount of stuff to do, eat and see in this state of Malaysia-Borneo is staggering and, I fully embraced the opportunity to do a deep dive into Sarawak’s different facets of life. I may have also been severely missing a life-changing bowl of Kolo Mee from the historic Lau Ya Keng food court on Carpenter Street. Good stuff. We explore Kuching’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and all that might mean, before taking a quick tour around Sarawak’s most interesting historical sights and the city of Sibu. No trip is worth your salt without a few souvenirs and we’ve rounded up some essential ingredients to take home with you in our shopping special. Wondering where you might find a great bowl of noodles? We’ve got the biG Appetite to satisfy your tummy anywhere on Borneo, and if you’re with TAIB there are plenty of savings to be had with their special list of merchants!

Beyond our borders, there’s a whirlwind tour across Australia, London, and the United States. Pack your bags for any one of these incredible destinations and be prepared for some serious wanderlust if a plane ride isn’t in your cards right now. Until the next issue, stay safe, stay hungry and most importantly, stay happy.

@b.i.g.magazine

BIG: Borneo Insider’s Guide

@bigborneo

Publisher CHMP MEDIA

Editor

Ying Chia

Contributor

Weirich Alexander

Designer

Aqilah Hj Abu Bakar

Marketing Manager

Yasmin Jamal

Brunei | biG

contact@borneoinsidersguide.com

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Unit 2&3, First Floor

Wisma LCY Gadong, Spg 92, Jln Gadong, Kg. Pengkalan Gadong

Mukim Gadong B, Bandar Seri Begawan

BE 3719, Brunei Darussalam

Embody the spirit of Eid with our luscious gift sets that let your loved ones truly know how special they are. Whether it’s soft English Rose, sweet Cherry Blossom, or the burst of fresh Vitamin C, there’s a set for everyone to feel extra special in this time of sharing and togetherness.

CHERRY BLOSSOM

Shine brighter than a diamond thanks to the natural power of Japanese Cherry Blossom, osmanthus and heavenly sandalwood. For an easy way to spark happiness, this captivating blend of 96% natural origin ingredients includes Community Fair Trade Shea Butter from Ghana for skin that feels as soft as petals.

CHERRY BLOSSOM

COLLECTION

Content: Body Mist, Shower Gel, Body Cream, Eau de Toilette

BRITISH ROSE

VITAMIN C

The Discover Your Glow Vitamin C Skincare Routine is the perfect gift for glow-seeking skin obsessives. Featuring up to 10% Vitamin C and made with at least 90% natural origin ingredients, this top-selling trio is the go-to solution for enhancing your glow this Ramadan and beyond.

DISCOVER YOUR GLOW VITAMIN C

SKINCARE ROUTINE

Content: Vitamin C Glow Revealing

This premium gift features the complete British Rose body care collection. It’s gentle, soft fragrance smells just like a powerful English rose in full bloom. Notes of Musk, Rose and Bergamot sweep you away to a glorious garden bursting with flowers. The British Rose shower gel lathers up to gently cleanse and refresh skin with a bloom of bubbles and Community Fair Trade organic aloe vera from Mexico. A scoop of British Rose Body Butter locks in 96hr moisture for skin that feels softer and smoother, and a dollop of our hydrating hand cream shows a little love to pinkies and palms. Both hydrating heroes are enriched with Community Fair Trade shea butter from Ghana.

Serum, Vitamin C Glow Boosting Moisturiser, Vitamin C Glow Sheet Mask

DELUXE BRITISH ROSE GIFT SET

Content: Shower Gel, Body Butter, Soap, Body Yogurt, Hand Cream, Eau de Toilette

6

7-11

25-26 Strolling through History

27-28 Seeing Sibu

BiG TALK

33 YAM Hamlatul Arsy Mulia

34 Rashid Salleh

35 Nol Kamaruddin

36-41 Nothing But Noodles

BiG

54-55

56 Movies to look out for this quarter

PESTA KAAMATAN

MAY MAY

MAY

1ST WEEK OF 31

Rice, on top of being a staple crop that makes up the Sabahan diet, is also viewed as a gift from the celebrants’ deity ‘Kinoingan’ who sacrificed his daughter ‘Huminodun’ to sow the land. A festival full of ceremonies ensues as a tribute and invitation to her watchful spirit, ‘Bambaazon’.

TAMBUNAN, SABAH

MAY JUNE

ROYAL BRUNEI ARMED FORCES DAY

Our nation’s military and army are feted on this public holiday that often features a myriad of army-themed events and an open exploration day at a designated army base for the public to learn about military life in Brunei.

MOUNT TRUSMADI INTERNATIONAL CLIMBATHON

The first-ever Mount Trusmadi International Climbathon is an exciting and challenging competition that promises to take you on an epic journey to the peak of Malaysia's second highest mountain! Venture through the pristine wilderness and discover more of Sabah’s natural beauty.

17-17 25

UBD SPECTRUM 2024 : UNVEIL BRUNEI THROUGHOUT SABAH

UNIVERSITI BRUNEI DARUSSALAM, BRUNEI

The eagerly anticipated 4th edition of UBD Spectrum invites all those with an interests in the creative industry to see a showcase of artistic skills. Organized by 60 talented individuals, this year’s exhibition theme is 'Unveil’, encapsulating the boundless creativity and ingenuity of UBD’s graduating Design and Creative Industries students.

HARI RAYA

GAWAI DAYAK ISLAND-WIDE

SARAWAK & WEST KALIMANTAN

Celebrated primarily by the Iban people, while also being acknowledged by a spattering of other smaller ethnic groups – colourful costumes, ritual music, food sampling, and a heck of a lot of brewed rice wine, make up the entertaining and educational proceedings of this event.

Typically marked with 3-day public holiday that continues with weeks of celebration to signify the end of the fasting month of Ramdhan. Hari Raya is a time of extending hospitality to family, friends and associates, in remembrance of forgiveness, kindness and sharing.

www.bruneitourism.travel | www.sabahtourism.com | www.sarawaktourism.com

MAY

BORNEO EXPO 2024

Welcome to the ultimate gathering of international professionals, entrepreneurs and industry leaders, designed to connect individuals from diverse industrial sectors to foster collaboration and to inspire growth in the world of business internationally.

With love, from Brunei

The crowd cheers with vigour, as parades of colourful people march diligently around the padang at the National Stadium in Berakas – just one of the many memorable moments in the celebration of Brunei’s 40th year of independence. Hari Kebangsaan Brunei 40 this year was a glorious day of remembrance and utmost national pride, and truly a spectacle that will live on in the minds of future generations. Ricky Ang, a Senior Life Advisor at Goodlife Financial Planning, said that immersed in the vibrant spirit of unity and pride, Brunei Darussalam's 40th National Day celebration “was a breathtaking testament to our nation's journey and resilience. Witnessing the sea of citizens coming together in such a grand display of patriotism and love for our country fills my heart with immense pride. Together, we stand strong, united in our diversity, rich in our heritage, and unwavering in our path towards progress and prosperity”. Aqil Fikry, a Senior Lab Technician at UTB, who participated in a performance this year added that “as a civil servant myself, I felt honoured to be part of this year's National Day, in the Human LED team. Preparation was done over a week prior to ensure everything went smoothly. During rehearsals, everyone worked together really well despite the humid weather and on the day itself, I was excited

to see everyone with full patriotic spirit even though it was raining for quite a bit before the event started. All and all I'm glad the event went well and it was a success”. Social media was also abuzz with the events and festivities that typically take place in the capital area close to the waterfront and Padang SOAS annually, and had been moved to the original location of Brunei’s declaration of independence in 1984 for this massive celebration. “It was a really special day, and so unique to experience this in my lifetime,” said Haafiz A., a 28-year-old designer from Brunei-Muara. “We usually watch the events from home in the morning, but since it’s the 40th National Day, we really couldn’t miss going early and being in the stadium,” he added saying his family had booked their tickets early to ensure they were able to get seats as they heard it was limited entry to the stadium. This year’s celebrations included a special parachute flight entry into the stadium by Pasukan Payung Terjun ABDB, marching processions from the various communities and civil servants of Brunei, and special performances that included the seven puak (tribes) of Brunei.

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IG: @hk40.bn

The Photo To The Open Sea

The inaugural Brunei vs Singapore Friendly Race set the stage for a captivating display of sailing prowess and camaraderie. Sailboats competing across various classes, navigated through two exhilarating races, each moment charged with the spirit of competition and collaboration. This landmark event organized in partnership between the Royal Brunei Yacht Club and Metazone Singapore, marks a significant milestone in the development of sailing in Brunei. Metazone is renowned for its commitment to promoting sailing in Southeast Asia and has played a pivotal role in supporting the growth of the sport in Brunei.

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of a Lifetime

If you saw a really tall crane these last few months at the Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas with a bunch of people running around below it, you’ve been privy to the behind the scenes set up of a very special project. Brunei is set to make waves with the launching of the BN40 Gigapixel Photo of Brunei Darussalam, utilising the technology of gigapixel photography. The resulting panoramas hold immense detail at over one billion pixels and can feel like you are stepping into the image itself. BN40 Gigapixel is the brainchild of luxury watchmaker Keeran Janin, who says it's something he’s always wanted to do since learning about the technology. “I wanted to make sure that this was at zero cost to the government and it’s a gift to the people”, he explained adding that with the timing of the nation’s 40th year of independence in February 2024, the photo will serve as a kind of time capsule for the current and future generations with vignettes of Bruneian life and all communities. The documentary on the making of the BN40 Gigapixel Photo will air on selected platforms.

IG: @1984megapixels

IG: @royalbruneiyachtclub

It’s All Yewww!

With a vast coastline to explore and the promise of unlimited waves to surf, the Tegarbois surf group based across various parts of Borneo joined together for the filming of a short film “The Search: Borneo Waves 2 Introductions” on surfing across the island. Hitting well known spots like the beloved Tuaran in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, the group aims to “catalyse a new surf culture (that’s) more open to (foreign) surfers and focusing on #sharingthestoke” while showcasing the potential of Borneo island as a surf travel destination. Over the course of 14 days, they embarked on an extraordinary journey with the support of Ripcurl Malaysia and Candywax Borneo, catching waves and making friends along the coast from Sabah, Brunei and Sarawak. They also paid tribute to the various sponsors and supporters during filming. ••

IG: @tegar.boiss

You’re Simply The Best!

The Proudly Brunei Business Awards (PBBA) celebrated the accomplishments of Bruneibased enterprises and companies that have proven extraordinary quality and performance in their respective industries. This prestigious national award aims to recognize outstanding local businesses, while providing a platform for networking and collaboration, and ultimately elevate the profile and success of Brunei’s

business community on both national and international stages. This year's theme, "Catalysts For A Better Tomorrow," is a tribute to businesses that have achieved growth while making significant contributions in their respective sectors. The theme emphasizes the role of businesses as catalysts for positive economic change, focusing on priority areas. It seeks to honor companies that serve as

What a Legend!

role models, contributing to the development of the local economy and paving the way for a promising future for Brunei. At the heart of the Proudly Brunei Business Awards is a thorough assessment and evaluation process, which involves various subject matter experts from relevant government agencies and organisations.

•• IG: @proudlybrunei

In a thrilling collaboration with World Football Legends (WFL Asia) and TopBins Event Management, Progresif proudly brought an unforgettable and exclusive meet-and-greet session with Premier League icons John Arne Riise from Liverpool FC, and Teddy Sheringham of Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspurs. Providing football enthusiasts with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with legendary figures, the winners of the two exclusive Progresif campaigns were able to meet their idols who have left an indelible mark on the history of football. The atmosphere was electric as fans connected with their idols, making it a memorable afternoon filled with shared passion for the beautiful game. Progresif, known for its commitment to enhancing consumer experiences, successfully delivered an event that resonated with the diverse audience present. Sharleen Othman, Vice President of Marketing, shared that “At Progresif, we believe in the power of #reconnect. The 'Meet the Legends' event wasn't just about football icons, it was about reconnecting with the dreams that made us fall in love with the game”, and witnessing their customer’s passion fuelled their own, reminding them that anything is possible.

•• IG: @thatsprogresif

Love at First Glimpse

Salma, Soraya, Budi, Yasmin - wonderful names on their own and elevated even further when matched to the Annual Raya 2024 Collection by local fashion house, Bilang. Their interactive private presentation exclusively held for esteemed and loyal clients and partners was a full house that included some of the country’s most well known fashionistas and creatives. The preview took place two days before the official public debut, allowing invited guests to revel in the first glimpse of Bilang's latest creations before anyone else. Not only that, but they also had the chance to immerse themselves in the feel of the fabric and explore a range of available swatches for the collection. The wonderful styling of the event as a Hari Raya open house made the atmosphere even more festive, with the ever welcome Raya kueh and makanmakan. ‘Raya 2024’ is a stunning compendium that pays homage to the diverse sartorial forms of womenswear and menswear in the region that were beautifully captured through mainstream media, film, and photography over the last decades. The collection, which coincides with Bilang’s third anniversary, includes nine ensembles that manifest the timeless allure of classical silhouettes, as well as elevated designs from Bilang’s past collections, curated to evince charm. Tailored for comfort for the Eid season, every look is carefully crafted, fusing together a tasteful combination of color palettes, pleasant textures and patterns, resulting in a truly mesmerizing visual aesthetic. Every look in this collection is given a name that represents its distinct inspiration, style, and adornments.

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IG: @bybilang

To The Land of the Rising Sun

Visitors to the Mabohai Shopping Complex

Art Avenue were thrilled by the launch of local photographer ‘Forest’ Lim Han’s exhibit celebrating the beauty of Japan. Launched in conjunction to celebrate the 40th year of Japan-Brunei diplomatic relations and trade. The show aptly captured beautiful landmarks and other aspects of Japanese life through Han’s artful eye. Han has been visiting Japan regularly to capture images of the unique culture. The rise of Japan’s popularity as a tourist destination for Borneans is evident with the number of tourist arrivals from Brunei rising by an incredible 5000 arrivals from 2022 to 2023. Using photography as a form of cultural connection and diplomacy wasn’t his intention when starting out years ago, but Han found himself and Japanese friends he’d made along the way becoming mutually intrigued by each other's culture and country. Han was also a former president of the Brunei Japan Friendship Association Universiti Brunei Darussalam Chapter, and a co-founding member of Brunei Daily Snaps Photography with 49,000 Facebook followers. Their photographs have been featured on on the most famous Japanese accounts that publishes photos of Brunei’s incredible views. His Excellency Toru Maeda, Ambassador of Japan to Brunei Darussalam, was present to launch the exhibit and was visibly pleased as he chatted with Han about each photo.

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IG: @foresthanjourney

In honour of World Cancer Day, blood donors stepped up in Fitness Zone’s annual blood donation drive campaign earlier this year. The Health Club aims to amplify awareness, as well as actionable support through its blood donation event, in conjunction with the cause. Reaffirming commitment to the global fight against cancer, Wu Chun, the Managing Director of Fitness Zone, has been appointed

Standing Together For Cancer Tutong Retreat

as the ambassador of Goodwill and Messenger for cancer awareness by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). “Cancer is a disease that knows no boundaries, affecting millions of lives worldwide. As an ambassador for cancer awareness, we recognize the importance of early detection, prevention, and support for those battling cancer. Through this initiative, we want to inspire individuals and communities to come together, support one another, and contribute to the fight against cancer.”

In addition to raising awareness, Fitness Zone believes in the power of giving back.

A Turkish Delight

Distinguished guests were afforded an immersive journey into the heart of Turkish gastronomy thanks to a Turkish Cuisine Workshop organised by Yunus Emre Enstitüsü in collaboration with the Embassy of Türkiye in Brunei. The workshop was conducted by the embassy’s Executive Chef, Adem Can, who demonstrated dishes like Tarhana, a fermented grain soup, and Karniyarik which is a Turkish-style stuffed eggplant. Participants also got to experience the new facilities of the Culinary School at Laksamana College of Business, where the event was hosted.

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IG: @tcs_bsbbe

Mori Farm’s Fine Dining ‘Re-Treat’ experience left us speechless for all the right reasons; curious about the young Bruneian chef collaborating with the Bruneian permaculture farm, myself and my dinner partner were pleasantly surprised at not only how thoughtful the five-course menu by Chef Jerry Tew was, but at the impeccable service from the Mori Farm staff. A private car shuttle to a modern Balineseinspired space, and attentive service? We certainly weren’t expecting a true fine dining experience in the heart of Tutong’s farmland.

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IG: @morifarmbn

The blood donation event put actions to this belief, providing an opportunity for individuals to make a tangible difference in the lives of cancer patients and others in need. "We all have a role to play in the fight against cancer," said Wu Chun. "Through awareness, education, and support, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this disease. Together, we can create a world where cancer is no longer a threat." The blood donation event took place at the Fitness Zone Kiulap. The event is annually open to members of the largest health club in Brunei and general public, to donate and make a difference in the lives of those in need.

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IG: @fitnesszonebrunei

A Playground of the Curious & Creative

Art lovers were thrilled at the recent Lakuh exhibition that was organised by visionary community platform, The Curious Playgrounds, wandering through a maze of corridors filled with artwork proudly all from Asian artists. Twenty-eight artists from across Borneo and the ASEAN region were selected for the curation of the immersive art experience that left attendees raving about having an international quality art show in Brunei. “I feel relieved that the opening went well,... I saw the potential of Brunei Energy Hub and I’ve always wanted to create an installation (art) experience“ said Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hamlatul Arsy Mulia binti Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri Pengiran Bendahara Seri Maharaja Permaisuara Pengiran Muda Haji Sufri Bolkiah, of her inaugural curation and execution of a large-scale exhibition. “The story that I came up with was that (Lakuh) was like a reflection of my story and my journey as an artist,” she explained in reference to the intentionality behind the winding corridors that were at times taped off with clear plastic and fabric screens. The wide open space at the beginning of the exhibition space is unusually bare - a clever trick that YAM Hamlatul said is designed to get people thinking critically as soon as they enter the area. Spoken word performances, live portrait sessions and plenty

of interactive art made Lakuh truly memorable, according to a visiting guest.

With creativity at the heart of The Curious Playgrounds, the collaborative projects like Lakuh (which was co-curated by visual artist James Nguyen from Vietnam), will transcend geographical boundaries, serving as a testament to the power of creativity in fostering connections. With a varied list of contributors from Brunei Darussalam, Republic of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Singapore and Vietnam, the feeling of community was certainly palpable through the month-long presentation. "During COVID, I spent quite a bit of time in Brunei, which doesn’t usually happen, and I was a part of a few different exhibitions of artists from Brunei… I travel a lot and I usually go to museums, art galleries, which have a mix of people (showcasing) whether it’s a small or big event. So experiencing that all around the world, I always wondered why can’t we have that at home as well,” explained YAM Hamlatul, adding that she hoped Lakuh would inspire people to do the same and invite more artists to Brunei to exhibit together to kickstart a more vibrant arts industry in Brunei.

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IG: @thecuriousplaygrounds

What a Wonder-Full World

Weirich Alexander

Gaze into the vacant eye sockets of a centuryold human skull and you might begin to wonder. Wonder about the colour of the person’s eyes or more deeply, how they viewed the world in the late 1800s. Such existential moments can shake the commotion and fuss out of your life and reaffirm the simple joy of being alive.

This was my experience when visiting the historic Sarawak Museum in 2017. It was my first time in Kuching and the half-day spent engaging with the various bones, artefacts and ethnographic displays sent my brain into wonderment overload. I decided to repeat this extremely gratifying experience when planning a business trip to the City of Cats in October 2022.

The Grab driver lived in Kuching his entire life and provided me with an unsolicited verbal tour of the city. This service he provided free of charge to his captive audience. When we reached the hotel I thanked him through the open car window and cheerfully mentioned I would continue my education of his beloved city at the museum. His expression immediately changed. “The Sarawak Museum?” he quizzed. I nodded. A blank expression crossed his face as the car began to inch forward. “It’s closed, replaced by a new museum. Such a shame,” he muttered while driving away. I stood stunned, watching his tail lights merge into a mosaic of city traffic contemplating what he meant by

‘shame’ and feeling somewhat empty. My interest shifted and I spent my free time experiencing other cultural highlights in Kuching.

In July 2023 I visited Kuching again. I did not intend to visit the Borneo Cultures Museum but curiosity got the better of me so I decided to spend a portion of the afternoon in the architecturally impressive building. Starting from the Children's Gallery and moving through the exhibition levels consecutively, I couldn’t understand how or why it could be considered a shame and I felt foolish for not visiting earlier. It is certainly different from the Sarawak Museum but the infusion of technology with history is remarkable. This is the new home to voices of the past. The digital interactivity empowers the physical collection, amplifying the awareness, importance and appreciation of Borneo Cultures.

I understand there are future plans for the Sarawak Museum within the Sarawak Museum Complex. It is evident the Sarawak Museum Department acknowledges the importance of museums as sites of education and surprise as it continues to inspire visitors with unique perspectives of its collection. I personally look forward to more visits to Kuching and eagerly await my next ‘wonder-ful’ museum experience.

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IG: @borneoculturesmuseum

@Borneo Cultures Museum

trail

LIVELY, LOVELY LABUAN ISLAND!

Looking for a fun-filled vacation that’s close enough to make the most of your time off? This duty-free haven is a thriving community with plenty to do, eat and drink! There are six smaller islands around the mainland area that are also part of the Labuan territory so you’ll have plenty of spots to jet off to for a day of soaking up the sun and relaxing in pristine waters. If you want to stay on land, the island is rich with history and there are lots of nature walks, landmarks, and beaches to explore - you might even meet a local surfer or two!

Labuan Island is officially considered a federal territory of Malaysia, which means international visitors will need a passport to enter; the Labuan International Airport services most major and regional airlines and a short ferry ride is available for Bornean visitors who don’t want to catch a flight over. Ferry schedules are available online at www.pulaulabuan.com but it’s best to call 24 hours before to check for time changes or cancellations. A 50% ferry fee subsidy is provided for Malaysian citizens by the federal government on ticket fares for the Menumbok, Kota Kinabalu, Sipitang, Lawas and Limbang routes. This discount however is not applicable for the Brunei route.

CHIMNEY MUSEUM

Discover Labuan’s rich past as the largest producer of coal mineral resources in the Borneo region until the development of the railway system, which is believed to be among the earliest in Malaysia. The museum sits on a hilly bit of land that used to also be the site of an old coal mine. When you’re done looking through the artifact collections and historical coal samples found in Tanjong Kubung, many of which were unearthed from around the area, head off on the lovely walking trail that passes along a hidden beach cove area. Entry is free and a short guided tour is available.

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DESA TUNAS HIJAU

Chimney Museum, Kg Lubok Temiang, Jln Tanjung Kubong, 87007

Tel: 6087 463 603

Located on the southwest coast of Labuan, this seven-acre site offers facilities and services for everyone, from toddlers to the elderly. There are outdoor activities for the adventurous, family fun to be had, and wonderfully furnished chalets to spend a few nights in! Their large banquet hall can accommodate up to 500 people if you’re choosing Labuan for a big gathering or event, and the beautiful

landscape and luscious greens will captivate your minds and soul. Serene and secluded, it is fronting the vast South China Sea with an unobstructed view of the stellar sunset.

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Jln Sg Pagar, Kg Sg Miri, WP Labuan, 87008

www.desaland.com.my

Palm Beach Resort & Spa

SANTAI BEACH BAR

This beachfront property is the ideal getaway for holiday and business travelers and just 15 minutes drive from the town and industrial centre. With 245 spacious and comfortable rooms on 17 acres of private beach and attractive tropical gardens, there is plenty to do or nothing at all if you wish! Relax in the large outdoor pool and have a chilled beverage or take a walk along the pristine beach to catch the island’s stunning sunsets, and relax!

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700, 87014 Labuan, Labuan Federal Territory, Malaysia

Tel: 6087 418 700

IG: @pbrslabuan

PULAU RUSUKAN BESAR

Imagine sipping on a refreshing cold beverage while lounging on a beach chair facing a clear blue sea. Welcome to Santai Beach Bar, located on the snazzy Palm Beach Resort property. Aside from the beautiful modern Bali-inspired interiors, there’s tons of kid-friendly spaces for young ones to run around, while you enjoy a nice meal al fresco - Western barbecue, wood-fired pizza or Asian favourites, everyone’s guaranteed a good meal and a good time.

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700, 87014 Labuan, Labuan Federal Territory

www.palmbeachresortspa.com

One of three islands grouped in the Labuan Marine Park, this absolute gem will take your breath away with its crystal clear waters and teeming ocean life. You’ll be able to walk the whole island in about a half hour, but spend most of your time underwater on the popular scuba and snorkeling trails that also offers the excitement of diving a World War II wreck! You’ll also find the amazing bioluminescent plankton here so make sure to book a night at the island’s glamping chalets.

TAMAN DAMAI (PEACE PARK)

LOONG FISH HEAD SOUP STALL

You wouldn’t expect it but this humble stall behind the Labuan Times Square mall is constantly packed with customers who love the Fish Head Noodle Soup served here. A balanced, tangy soup that comes with mee hoon noodles or a bowl of kolo mee, topped off with fresh fried fish slices, who can say no to that! The Curry Fishball also comes highly recommended.

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Labuan Times Square, Labuan, Malaysia

Tel: 6016 811 1661

FB: Loong Fish Head Soup Stall Labuan

Amidst a lush landscaped garden space, this memorial park was built in honour of the casualties from Labuan’s four-year occupation by Japanese forces during World War II. Have a walk through the tropical rock garden after enjoying some time in the serene atmosphere, and head to the beach which is facing the park. The island was yielded to Allied Forces on the 10th of September, 1945, and there is a archway monument erected to memorialise the point of surrender on the beach side corner of the park.

•• Corner section of Jalan Mohammed Salleh & Jln Damai, Labuan Federal Territory www.pulaulabuan.com

DEEP SEA RAFF RESTAURANT

The Deep Sea Raff Restaurant is synonymous with Labuan’s food scene and has retained its legendary status by continuing to serve great Halal Malay-style food. Located to the side of the Jetty Sri Ganti Labuan, it’s a convenient place to grab a meal pre or post-ferry, and watch all the ships as they come and go. Fill up on Deep Sea Raff’s specialty, the Nasi Campur Berlauk. It’s also conveniently located behind the local mosque.

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c/o Labuan Deepsea Seafood Centre Bagunan

Terminal Lama Feri Penumpang , Jln Merdeka 87000 Labuan, Malaysia

Tel: 6019 897 2799

FB: Raff Restaurant

DATARAN LABUAN (LABUAN SQUARE)

This huge field and grandstand area is where Labuan comes to enjoy some downtime, and location of most major events and football matches. At night, you’ll find buskers around the area, a cool breeze and lots of pretty lights. Grab a photo at the Labuan Heart or the replica Chimney, and of course, you’re never far from a meal here. Restaurants are scattered all around the square’s surrounding area, and a nice food truck park between the square and the Dorsett Hotel.

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Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Labuan, 87000 Labuan, Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan, Malaysia

snapshot

It’s a Love Story: The 10 daylong fairytale wedding of Duli

Yang Teramat Mulia Paduka Seri

Pengiran Muda 'Abdul Mateen

ibni Kebawah Duli Yang Maha

Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda

Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah

Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah to Yang

Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri

Anisha Rosnah Binti Adam, set media and the public on fire in January 2024, as the fourth son of His Majesty Sultan Haji

Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin

Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum

Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien

Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam officially took himself off Asia’s most eligible bachelor list. Media from across the world flew to Brunei to capture the events that included traditional MalayMuslim ceremonies, a lavish reception with a reported 5000 guests, and a royal procession by car through the Bandar Seri Begawan downtown area to greet well-wishers.

Ari Kustiawan

Love Sarawakian food and want to relive the amazing tastes and flavours of the Land below the Wind? We’ve rounded up the ultimate shopping list for the special ingredients and snacks that make up this truly unique cuisine of Borneo.

SALTED IKAN TERUBOK

Don’t turn your nose up at this dried fish! The salted and dried Ikan Terubok (Toil Shad) is a prized food in Sarawak and so delicious when it is deep fried that producers can sometimes hardly keep up with demand. The soft meaty flesh has lots of delicate bones that can easily be picked apart. Once fried however, the whole thing becomes an insanely crispy, salty, moreish item. It’s great chopped up and added to soups, stir fry’s, fried rice, whenever you want a pop of salty crunch!

NOODLES AND LAKSA

Falling in love with the famous Sarawak Kolo Mee or Sarawak Laksa is easy, but replicating the experience at home? Not so. You can however get one step closer to the delicious bowl of heaven by bringing home the authentic ingredients. Pop into kedai runcit to get the ‘instant’ versions from local producers The Kitchen Food (NonHalal), and Lee Fah who are popular choices for their tasty goods. Laksa paste on its own is also available in some souvenir shops like the Kuching Waterfront Souvenir Shop, but please do check with retailers on the Halal status of their products prior.

KEK LAPIS

LIBERICA COFFEE

Formerly dismissed in favour of the more known Robusta and Arabica beans, Liberica coffee was once relegated to the backyards of private growers and kopitiams in Sarawak. Its status as a speciality bean has grown in part thanks to the all-important kopitiam culture and the efforts of Dr. Kenny Lee, who runs the popular specialty café, Earthlings Coffee Workshop.

The more nuanced aspects of the robust bean can be explored at one of the many cupping sessions or coffee workshops that Earthlings holds to educate the public and coffee lovers. The Black Bean café on Carpenter Street is also a must visit for a true Sarawak kopitiam experience.

" The Malay and Indonesian terms of ‘Lada’ are derived from the Ancient Greek name λῆδον or lêdon, for the Gum Rockrose shrub"

SARAWAK PEPPERCORNS

These fragrant berries (yes, they’re a berry!) are famous for their incredible scent and flavour profiles. Each of the four main varieties grown in Sarawak boast a particular taste, heat level and aroma, and are especially delicious when toasted and cracked into dishes. We love using these special peppers to elevate dishes like a lemon pepper seasoning or Cacio e Pepe pasta. Look for:

You may be familiar with this multi layered, multi coloured sweet that is most referenced to Malaysian culinary culture. With a buttery base, the Lapis can come in basically any sweet flavour combination that you might think of and modern ones have even stepped up with more intricate designs and patterns on the inner face. Some of the most incredible varieties come from the state of Sarawak, and many shops offer packages that can keep your cake fresh and safe on its travels home with you.

Lada Kuching, Lada India, Semongok Emas and Semongok Aman.

TEBALOI

You’ll be able to find a Kek Lapis anywhere in Sarawak. We love the versions at Di Wannie Cake and Maria Cake House, which are Halal-certified. Mira Cake House and Kek Lapis Mama Su come highly recommended for their varieties and incredible texture!

"Similar to Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, a Kek Lapis can only be sold as ‘Kek Lapis Sarawak’ if it is produced in the state of Sarawak according to the specifications of the Sarawak Layer Cake Manufacturers Association."

This traditional snack is closely linked to the indigenous Melanau people of Sarawak and makes use of sago, an important food staple to the tribe. Rectangular and slightly yellowish in their original form, Tebaloi are made with sago flour, desiccated coconut, eggs, and sugar to form the dough which is then flattened on a large banana leaf and fire-cooked. The result is a wafer thin crisp with a sweet, toasty flavour that’s addictive with tea

Gastronomy Creative City of

REPUTATION COUNTS

Kuching’s cultural make up is as diverse as the culinary landscape that emerged from itroughly 400,000 people live in what is known as Kuching city, mainly made up of Malay, Han Chinese, Indigenous Borneo and Indian ethnicities, combined with a centuries-long history full of various political throwdowns and shuffling for the resource rich territory. Especially strong, the Chinese influences on Sarawak region have resulted in a plethora of dishes that are distinctly recognizable as coming from Foochow, Hainanese or Teochew traditions. Some of these items have survived culturally through the diaspora with little to almost no change to their recipes. Kompia, for example, is the Chinese answer to a New York Bagel. Albeit much smaller, sweeter and topped with lashings of crunchy sesame seeds. Personally, the best versions of it for me are stuffed well with thick slices of salty Spam, but each to their own. Despite

traveling thousands of miles to arrive at the settlement of Kuching in the late 1800’s, there has been barely any adaptation to the Kompia in Sarawak, and the traditional food has remained as popular as ever. Sarawak Laksa, while not perhaps the true place of origin of the dish itself, the state’s version has become undoubtedly the most identifiable. I’m sure most people are familiar with Anthony Bourdain’s famous declaration that Sarawak Laksa was the ‘breakfast of Gods’.

EVERYTHING, EVERYWHERE, ALL AT ONCE

In the make up of Malaysia’s culture, the UNESCO title plays a significant role towards building a local identity that can also be recognisable and appealing to the global market. The choice of ‘gastronomy’ heralds an extension of a new period of creativity for the state, according to Karen

Shepherd, Strategic Director for the Unesco Creative Cities Network (UCCN) Kuching, City of Gastronomy. Celebrating the region’s exceptional biodiversity and its identity is of course a large part of the UNESCO designation, as is the rediscovery and identification of the Sarawakian identity within the framework of food culture. The grassroots-led application of the ‘gastronomy’ designation is strengthened by the thriving community of chefs and food associations, which much of derives from the strong connection to the land and indigenous culture.

The idea is mainly about sustaining development for a robust food economy with the traditional knowledge of local ingredients and land practises as the backbone. But surely as with everything, there’s got to be a

Ying Chia

saturation point. An economy cannot run on just restaurants or farms. “So one of the things that the UNESCO designation does is to increase international profile. So that’s one part of it. And I think the other part of it is really using creativity in urban regeneration. Reclamation of space, in using the creative economy and creative events and activities regenerate our wet markets… one of our most important sites of sale,” she explains, adding that they are using digital media to help these spaces recover from the pandemic where food accessibility bumped sales towards supermarkets. Food festivals and gastro tourism products are also slated to increase the state’s tourism

profile and international reputation so you can “effectively walk into pretty much any (kopitiam) and get excellent food on any day”.

THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES

Kuching’s foodie reputation is strengthened by the local desire to preserve and grow the strong cultural and heritage links that the various dishes hold for each community be it Iban, Dayak, Hakka or FooChow Chinese, Malay or Indian. Poh Huai Bin, a Sibu native and food blogger, says he holds Kuching's hawker favorites like Gu Bak Mee (Kuching style Beef Noodles), Kampua and of course, Kolo Mee, close to his heart with his best food memories coming from nostalgia and cherished moments with his dad. “Eating these dishes evokes memories and

emotions in me - great ones, of a bygone time, a simpler time when happiness could be found in a plate of noodles and my dad talking to me while I was eating. I seek out these dishes and flavors here too, and it is my hope that I will create these wonderful food memories with my son too, so he has these beautiful memories when he's older and I'm no longer with him.” The Kenyalang Park Commercial Centre in Kuching, is a wonderful example of this intense love for the traditional. The name is a direct reference of the hornbill, an important bird and cultural symbol for the people of Sarawak especially the Dayak communities, and wandering through one of the oldest ‘modern residential/commercial areas’ of Kuching is like being in a time capsule. Local handmade snacks fill oversized glass jars, plastic wrapped packets for sale hang on every nook and cranny, open lightbulbs hang at eye level with their aging yellow bulbs.

It has remained largely unchanged, and beloved by the community. For a visiting tourist the meaning of such dishes or places will be lost on them, he adds. “They will have their own positive memories of dishes from their hometown like Gai See Hor Fun in Ipoh (for example), which does not have the same allure to me due to lack of emotional context." Shepherd echoes this sentiment, describing Kuching as a close-knit community of different cultures preserving their dishes from home, but also equally blending in with the Borneo landscape and experimenting. “We’re now at a stage, in the last ten years, where I think there was previously a kind of influx of Malaysian recipes, Malaysia-wide recipes, international recipes, and then suddenly you’ve got a lot of a change in educational level (and) now seeing a lot of young chefs who have got Western culinary training, who’ve gone off around the world, had careers, and then coming back and rediscovering these ingredients from their childhood and thinking about what they can do with that through this lens of Sarawak identity.” What the future holds for Sarawak’s culinary landscape, we certainly can’t wait to see.

Alan Lee Pik Jin

Alan Lee Pik Jin

STROLLING Through History

So much to see and so little time. With a past rich in tradition and cultural influences from both the East and the West, you’ll want to make the most of your trip to learn about what makes this part of Borneo just so special. Here are some of the essential sites to experience and learn about the history and culture of Sarawak state:

Canada Hill

Set atop a limestone ridge just outside of Miri proper, Canada Hill is a great spot to take in a bird’s eye view of the city and learn a bit about the importance of oil and gas to the city’s development and progress. As the first spot where oil was discovered in 1910, the landmark area now houses a Petroleum Museum and the city’s first oil well, affectionately called the ‘Grand Old Lady’.

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Jabatan Muzium Sarawak, Canada Hill, Jln Oil Well No. 1, 98000 Miri

Carpenter Street

Step back into history at Carpenter Street, where you’ll find a stunning area of heritage buildings that give you a true idea of what life was like back then! Chinese-centric, this beloved street filled with old school shops and coffee shops, is also home to Lau Ya Keng food court; a former opera house transformed, and home to some of the best food carts in all of Sarawak. Seriously, you might never want Kolo Mee anywhere else after dining here.

Sarawak Cultural Village Cat Monument

Immerse yourself in the heart of Sarawakian culture at the awardwinning ‘Living Museum’ that spans across seventeen acres of land; you’ll be able to explore replica buildings representing every major ethnic group in Sarawak which are mainly the Bidayuh, Iban, Orang Ulu, Penan, Melanau, Malay and Chinese. Interactive workshops mean you’ll get to learn traditional art and crafts from members of local tribes too!

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Pantai Damai Santubong, Kampung Budaya Sarawak, 93752 Kuching www.scv.com.my

Meow! The folklore behind Kuching city’s name is still debated but what’s certain is how cute this landmark statue of a cat family is! While it’s not the only cat statue to take pictures at in Kuching, this monument is definitely considered one of the most iconic spots where the busy streets of Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman and Jalan Abell meet.

Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita

If you’re looking for history, the newly reopened gallery contains artifacts and the personal possessions from the Brooke Family’s collection and tells the story of the White Rajahs and their rule over a kingdom that is considered Sarawak today. The gallery is housed inside a preserved fort built in 1879 used to guard Kuching’s river approaches from pirates, and you’ll even be able to climb to the top of the fort and check out the landscape!

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Fort Margherita, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching

Mulu SkyWalk

Test your fears on the world's longest tree based canopy walk (480 metres long and 20 metres above ground!) in Miri, Sarawak! With towering limestone cliffs in view and the rushing river below, this will be a highlight of any trip to Sarawak and one for the photo album. While a guide is present with you for the walk across, please check for any restrictions before booking.

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Mulu National Park, Miri, Sarawak

Old Courthouse

This former administrative center for the Sarawak Government was architecturally preserved and converted into the Sarawak Tourism Complex, where you’ll find a gorgeous cafe, bar and event space. The venue often houses festivals, many of which are free to the public.

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7, Jalan Barrack, 93000 Kuching

Malaysia-China Friendship Park

Just 30 minutes away from the waterfront, you’ll find the Malaysia-China Friendship Park; built in 2005 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the park is a good spot to stroll through and meet locals going about their day. Take photos at the intriguing Sarawak Fountain, with its seven arms overhanging, or relax at the Tea Pavilion with a view of the lake.

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Jalan Song, Tabuan Heights, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

Ying Chia

Sibu

‘Sleepy Sibu’; that’s perhaps the most common phrase that you might hear when asking friends about their visit to Sarawak but peel away at the layers of this quiet town and you’ll unearth why the city is actually a cultural hotspot. I’d heard a lot from expat friends who’d been, and feeling slightly ashamed that I had no personal context or contribution to make to their observations, booked myself on a plane departing from Miri the week after.

INTO THE WILD

Famous as a gateway to the Upper Rejang River, a densely forested area at the heart of Sarawak, Sibu has also been nicknamed by some locals as the ‘Wild West’ in reference to its tumultuous history (although these days it’s more famous for its food and festivals than anything). Sibu is home to a diverse community; indigenous tribes like the Dayak and Melanau still inhabit many of their original settlements, and the largest Chinese community in Malaysia. A modern city literally built by the immigrating Hokkien and Foochow, the

multitude of temples catering to various philosophies is evidence of their legacy.

The city has survived through various colonialism, occupations and a World War, and there are well-marked heritage trails that can be walked to learn more of Sibu’s modern history. A walk along the Rejang River Esplanade at sunset was a welcome daily distraction from how much food I’d eaten every day in Sibu. Neighbouring districts, Sarikei and Bintangor, are great half-day options if you’ve got time to rent a car.

Must See:

Tua Pek Kong temple, Sibu Heritage Centre, Sungai Merah Heritage Walk, Bawang Assan Longhouse Village.

Where to go:

Aloha Cafe for Kuching Laksa and local cuisine, Sing Hin Corner for Kampua Mee and Mee Sua with Red Rice Wine (Non-Halal), Arki Sapi’s Beef Noodle Soup, and Flos makes ethereal Western pastries.

PLEASE EAT

The great food culture arising from all this means Sibu’s reputation as a ‘foodie city’ is justified, and of course, the speciality is their Foochow and Hokkien cuisines. Kompia, Kolo Mee Kampua, and Ding Bian Hu are among the musteat dishes in Sibu and while it’s pretty easy to find a good version of these anywhere across town, there are of course outstanding stalls (some have even been open since the late 1800’s!) in the hawker centres.

For desserts and other local delicacies, you really can’t beat a day exploring and munching your way through the Sibu Central Market which is reportedly Malaysia’s largest indoor market that houses both a wet market for meats and seafood, and the dry market where all manner of local fruits, vegetables and Sibu snacks,

can be found. With two stories and 1,118 stalls to peruse, it’s a great stop to make for anyone wanting to really get into the local mindset. Even more stalls pop on the weekends so make sure you bring a bag strong enough to carry all your shopping! If you’re easily amused, look out for the live chickens on sale, wrapped in a snug blanket of old newspapers and string.

GOOD SLEEPS IN SIBU

Whether you’re flying in or taking a road trip, there are great options for a good night’s rest in Sibu. Most of the fancier hotels are clustered around the river esplanade for added convenience. Rooms are very affordable but there are also some larger, luxury private house and condo rentals to be found online if you’re travelling with a big group.

Living in a Fantasy World

It’s perhaps surprising that the world’s first and only art amusement park had survived its premature entombment in storage containers somewhere in the depths of a Texan warehouse. Even more surprising is why and how hip-hop megastar Drake and his creative studio, DreamCrew, became involved in its resurrection.

“Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy,” will take over a sprawling Los Angeles warehouse space on the outskirts of downtown; the painstaking process of restoring the glorious and outlandish artist-designed rides and attractions has become a full-blown immersive experience that is part art, part amusement park, and all fun. The original idea for Luna Luna as a conceptual amusement park was debuted in 1987 in Hamburg, Germany, by Austrian artist and performer André Heller. A walk through the park attractions reads like a who’s who list of the art world - Salvador Dalí’s disorienting ‘Dalídom’ dome, a Keith Haring carousel, a pavilion called Enchanted Tree by David Hockney, Jean-Michel Basquiat’s whimsical Ferris Wheel - just a short list of the 30 artists who agreed to the original Luna Luna park project. The works at the new Luna Luna include installations, rides, and performances that are both new and old. Due to the fragile nature of some of the structures, items like the ferris wheel have become museum monuments to the incredible undertaking of Heller’s project.

More than an artsy amusement park, Luna Luna was and remains, a space to dream, to giggle, and be free. “The luna park is always a dream space,” says Helen Molesworth, Luna Luna’s curatorial adviser and a former chief curator at the Museum of Contemporary Art. “It’s like someone goes around and untightens the screws of your need to behave, your

need to be good, your need to be smart, your need to be proper. Someone just untightens those four screws, and you can think different things and feel different things.” Stilt walkers, fire-breathers and all manner of the classic amusement experience are present at Luna Luna, adding to this sense of ‘elsewhere’.

Where does Drake come in, you must be wondering. According to sources, when Drake heard about the Luna Luna artifacts, he simply couldn’t believe that so many interactive works of art were just sitting in a warehouse. A mere USD100 million (reportedly) later, the Luna Luna park experience will run through spring 2024 in a 60,000-square-foot warehouse complex at Ace Mission Studios in downtown Los Angeles, with big plans to eventually take the project global as Heller had intended. More current artists are rumoured to join the Luna Luna fold and make their very own mark on this incredible project.

Tickets are very reasonable at under USD$40 for adults and $20 for kids. Obviously, there is a collection of covetable Drake-approved merch available on the website.

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www.lunaluna.com

Sinna Nasseri

Sinna Nasseri

Joshua White

Sarah Mathison

TAZA KEBAB QUEENSWAY

This one’s a guaranteed banger - Lebanese/Persian style shawarmas with juicy protein options like lamb, chicken or falafel, and additional trimmings such as fresh hummus, chilli and garlic sauce, all wrapped in their infamous toasted pitta grill! It’s a family business that’s been running since 1985 and you’ll get a good feed for decent prices. There’s a free salad bar with every purchase and fresh juices to quench your thirst.

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35A Queensway, London W2 4QJ, United Kingdom

Tel: 44-20 7727 7420

Hungry on holiday but aren’t sure if you’ll be able to find Halal food in London city? These five restaurants will make sure you leave feeling full and at peace of mind.

RASA SAYANG

Rasa sayang, hey, rasa sayang-sayang, hey… this may be in London but the Rasa Sayang restaurant is sure to brighten your mood if you’re feeling a little homesick (especially for those studying or working abroad in London).

Rasa Sayang is inspired by the busy hawker centres of Malaysia and Singapore, with their food being an authentic representation of the Straits’ diversely unique cuisine.

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5 Macclesfield Street, London, W1D 6AY

Tel: 44-020 7734 1382

IG: @rasasayang_london

IG: @tazatakeaway

GYMKHANA

Savour the delicacies of contemporary Indian cuisine using seasonal British ingredients and a strong focus on the tandoori oven and chatpatta sharing dishes. Gymkhana has two Michelin stars for good reason! This grand restaurant is inspired by the elite clubs of India where members of high society socialise, eat, drink, and play sport, and the classic British-Colonial interiors transport you back in time for a meal that’s guaranteed to be memorable. They offer halal meat options, and also serve alcohol and pork dishes on their daily menu.

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42 Albemarle St, London W1S 4JH, United Kingdom

Tel: 44-20 3011 5900

IG: @gymkhanalondon

@Gymkhana

KOREAN BBQ & VEGAN

Anyone in the mood for Korean barbecue? Finding a fully halal Korean BBQ restaurant in the centre of London is a challenge. Korean BBQ & Vegan steps up to the challenge with HMC and Islamic organisation certified suppliers for its meat, and no alcohol is served on the premises to give you an extra level of assurance!

While the menu is not specifically authentic Korean, the dishes are said to be great and there is also a large vegan menu to cater for non-meat eaters!

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107 Whitecross St, London EC1Y 8JD

Tel: 44-20 7256 5179

FB: Korean BBQ and Vegan Restaurant

SUSHI BAR BRICK LANE

Touted as an eclectic halal sushi eatery in Brick Lane, this hidden gem has rave reviews for its selection of tasty, freshly prepared sushi and Japanese menu at decent prices (very important after a day of browsing the nearby market, shopping lanes, and street art!). The establishment routinely gets rave reviews as a halal eatery, as do their Korean Fried Wings and Chicken Bao Buns.

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10 Osborn St, London E1 6TD, United Kingdom

Tel: 44-20 7377 1000

IG: @thesushibar.bl

MANJAROS LONDON

Buckle up and prepare for a wild gastronomical ride! Manjaros has exotic fusion food mainly inspired by AfroCaribbean cuisine and several branches across London city, although the most central one is their Brick Lane shop. The vibe is fun and exciting, matching their menu that includes unique but homey dishes like Manjaros’ Signature Chicken Parm or the Chicken Namball - grilled chicken strips pan-flambeed with onions, peppers and herbs and finished with Manjaros’ signature cheese blend. Delish!

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213-215 Ilford Ln, Ilford IG1 2RZ, London/357 High Rd Leyton, London E10 5NA

Tel: 44-020 8514 4455

IG: @manjaros.london

CHINA TANG AT THE DORCHESTER

Set in the iconic Dorchester Hotel at the heart of London town, the China Tang restaurant has a steadfast reputation for serving a delicious selection of deeply comforting Chinese favourites with style and flair. The halal ala carte menu is a wonderful rendition of Canton and Chinese favourites; be aware that there is alcohol served here alongside a non-halal menu. The vibe is distinctly opulent grandeur so get snazzied up for your meal here and enjoy the experience!

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53 Park Lane, London W1K 1QA, United Kingdom

Tel: 44-20 7319 7088

IG: @chinatanglondon

@China Tang

She's Lucky, She's A Star!

Get yourself on a plane to ‘Straya because Lucky Beach in the secluded town of Esperance, Western Australia, was recently crowned the ‘Best Beach in the World’ by travel experts, journalists, influencers and the good people of sunscreen brand Banana Boat. Of course, an Australian beach (or five) were going to make it into the list of 50, but it seems the combination of Lucky Beach’s elements made it, well, lucky.

Aside from the prerequisite of pristine white sand for miles (of which Lucky Bay’s is exceptionally blinding), dazzling blue water and some friendly kangaroo’s that might cross paths with you while lounging on the beach, the five kilometer long area is also situated in the important Cape Le Grand National Park. This ancient landscape has been above sea level for well over 200 million years and is home to many primitive relict species that formerly roamed most of the Australian continent. For all its untouched glory, you may think there is little to do here besides repeatedly baking yourself in the sun and cooling down in the cool water. However, you can also indulge in activities like kayaking,

snorkeling, fishing, camping and surfing. There are also freshwater pools around that are great to explore for local marine life, and migrating whales to spot if you’re there between July to October. Just remember that normal rules apply when interacting with local wildlife and landscapes here so no feeding the friendly ‘roos any snacks or drinks!

The town of Esperance is around an eight-hour drive or a one-and-ahalf-hour flight from Perth, Western Australia. From Esperance, Lucky Bay and the surrounding Cape Le Grand National Park are a 45-minute drive east. Western Australia recognises and acknowledge the Wudjari people as the traditional owners of Cape Le Grand National Park.

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IG: @worlds50beaches

talk

Life like a Unicorn

YAM Pgn Anak Hamlatul Arsy Mulia is a unicorn - at least that’s her preferred descriptive and after our brief but illuminating chat recently, the term is unsurprisingly fitting. From a banking and finance education to immersing herself in the development of her creative skills and businesses, YAM Hamlatul is surprisingly down to earth for someone so young and highachieving. She shows determination and an incredible amount of discipline towards transforming herself into various roles, and is even less afraid to examine herself from a creative perspective. We talk about needing many hats to wear in this generation, self-reflection, and Indo dishes with our favourite unicorn.

Can we dive into your career and past as an artist and creative a bit, and your thoughts on the art scene at the moment?

YAM H: I feel like in Brunei there's not a lot of like opportunities for creative sectors yet but with all the different spots of stuff that are starting to come out, hopefully in the next few years it'll be more vibrant with more opportunities and the younger talent will start to appear. I started drawing and painting at the age of five. My mom was a painter. I saw her paint and was very interested in it so she actually hired her friend to teach me fine art, and I think it was from then that I started to love it so much. From a very young age I was very exposed to things like fine arts, sculpture and all this stuff. My mom's friend is also an architect so I was also very inspired by her. Actually, my mom didn't want me to be an artist because she knew that at that moment in the eighties or nineties, an artist career wasn’t something that was successful or feasible. She wanted me to be a banker, you know? (laughs) So she made me study

banking and finance. I went to University of London and got my degree, but after I graduated, I handed it to her and went on to study animation as an apprentice in Singapore after that. On the side, I kept on doing my paintings so I've also along the way, exhibited in many places. First of all, it was in Brunei; in my friend’s San Francisco studio; Jogya, Indonesia; Perak, Malaysia. So that kind of also led towards my journey into meeting new people and networking. At the end of this year, I'm hosting my solo art show with 100 paintings in Singapore. About two years ago, when they had the NFT craze, I had a friend who was in the Blockchain Association in Singapore. He approached me to donate one of my paintings to an NGO in Singapore called GC Trade Income, to raise funds for in-need kids at a school in Singapore. ‘Protectors of the Soul’ kind of raised $50,000, I think?

You said that the princess in ‘Protectors of the Soul’ (which represents you) has her eyes closed because she wasn't open to a lot of experiences before. Why did you feel that way, and if you can share what were some of the formative experiences that ‘opened your eyes’?

YAM H: Okay, so they’re not really fully opened yet. It's still closed at some moments. It's just kind of like the Lakuh exhibition, right, where you go into a maze with transparent walls and I told you about the idea of that. I think initially when I started drawing, my struggle as an artist, was anatomy in the beginning because I couldn't draw hands and eyes properly. For me, when I was drawing and trying to overcome my struggle as an artist to get better in my skills, I felt like drawing the eyes closed wasn't just because I had this struggle but because it was also the feeling of me not understanding myself at that moment yet. Life will always be kind of like an uphill and downhill - when you know where you're going and when you don't know. So sometimes my eyes are open, sometimes they're closed. And in the moment when I'm

drawing them, you know, it's the feeling of that moment. It's just like when you close your eyes, you numb your senses to that one area and you focus your senses on something else, you know?

I feel like this is kind of the age of the multi-skilled person. What do you think about that, comparing it to previous generations which seems to have been more single-expertise focused?

YAM H: I feel at this age and time, in the dance and animation industries anyway, the talent we train and see is getting younger and younger. My youngest dancer is like five, you know, and she's already competing. I think if you're a kid or a young teen or generation at this age, if you don't kind of explore more skills, you're left behind. And if you don't try to reach out to more things to enhance yourself, it becomes a barrier for you to grow and excel further. Especially when you're out of Brunei. For example, if you come to Singapore, there's so many young kids now doing the same things that we're doing now. I think all the Singaporeans, mostly they're doing upskilling, they're learning different. I have a friend who's a lecturer in NTU and she has this student who is a drama teacher, but she's taking a course in AI and how she can apply AI in her school and classes. So, I think being, not necessarily a ‘Jack of all trades’, but using the extra skills that you have to enhance your own set.

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Read the full interview on

A Cup of Joe

Funnyman Rashid Salleh has had an illustrious life, to say the least. A brief rundown on his website lists everything from actor, comedian, director, TV host and ESPN anchor; a man who seems to be able to truly have his cake and eat it too, he is perhaps best known for his breakout role as ‘Joe’ in the Malaysian classic sitcom ‘Kopitiam’. We had the honour to chat with this stalwart of the ASEAN entertainment industry about life, leaps of faith, and returning home to his native Sarawak.

One of your most famous roles is Joe on Kopitiam, which aired for 7 seasons on NTV7. How did you work with writers and producers to develop Joe into the beloved local character he became?

RS: Well, we’re going to have to go way back! (laughs) We didn’t have much of a say in the development or characterisation of our roles at first. I think what happened was we took on the characters and sort of made it our own. By the second or third season, we were very comfortable and people knew what our characters were so it was very easy for the

writers to write around us. In fact, some of them even wrote our own mannerisms into the role so it looked natural. I used to have this tendency to pause in the middle of my sentences and so they’d put a pause there, cause they knew I would say something and then stop. It was a typical ‘Joe’ thing to stop, think a bit and then go on to make sure he said the right thing. I was a rugby player at the time so they wrote in that I was built and all that. Some of the writers were funny because they would make him take his shirt off and go for a swim, and I was like “Is that necessary?” (laughs) But over the years, it was a lot easier to play our characters because we knew our characters really, really well as is on any long-running shows.

Do you think you’re inclined to be that funny person or comedian in a group of people?

RS: Well the irony is that in my family there’s 10 of us; there’s five boys and five girls. My younger brother is the funniest guy and he’s a pilot! I was more of a serious guy. If you look at comedians, you know most of them are really serious people. We tend to take our comedy seriously, which is ironic.

You’ve worked in pretty much all aspects of media. Why were you interested in having those experiences in your repertoire or career?

RS: Well, I’m the type that loves a challenge and I caught the acting bug when I was 11 or 12 years old at prep school. So really long story short, (Kopitiam) did really well and my mindset was “I'm going to get more jobs, doesn’t matter what cause you’ve got to work”. And suddenly things were coming along. Somebody asked if I wanted to try voiceovers and I said ‘Why not?’ and during the shooting process I became so interested in how the whole thing worked. I was really, really lucky to be taught by Othman Hafsham, he’s like a sifu (teacher) for a lot of guys

my age. So there were tons of things going on (with different roles and opportunities) but because I was so enthusiastic about doing it, it was easier for me as I was already in front of the camera anyway. All those experiences that came along were very, very helpful. But I’m pretty happy in terms of what I’m doing right now; I actually had dreams of wanting to come back to Sarawak to transfer my knowledge and experience. I was asked to direct a couple of shows, I’ve done writing for four or five shows already, and also set up my company of PR publication, production and post-production. It’s been a nice ride.

You also described your Malaysia Film Festival 2007 nominated role as Ah Meng, in Waris Jari Hantu, as a challenging role. Besides the obvious, what were some of the bigger challenges you faced in that job?

RS: So I got nominated in 2007 at the Malaysia Film Festival Awards, and I remember that clearly because I’d just landed in Jakarta and joined ESPN. I got the call from the producers and they asked me where I was. I said “I’m in Jakarta” and they told me I’d just got nominated at the film festival. I saw the nomination list and these guys, they’re all my peers you know? These people I’ve worked with and my seniors. People who were really, really good- one of them was my idol, and I was so chuffed just to get nominated amongst these guys by playing a transvestite role. However, it was probably one of the most challenging roles I had because we trained for a month plus. Not just on the script but on our characters. The lead actor won Best Actor for Waris Jari Hantu and I got nominated as Best Supporting Actor. We were very well aware of the roles that we played in that film but I was really surprised to be nominated.

•• Read the full interview on www.borneoinsidersguide.com

I think going back to the beginning of things, you very early on had the support and opportunity to really build your love for music and also to develop your skill set as a musician. What are some of the key lessons you learned specifically being educated in a music school to become a musician?

NK: Wow, the experience that I got from my tutors and learning through their experiences and learning from people in the industry is priceless. Even though music school cost my mum a bomb, I really utilised it. I just wrung all the water dry out of that course because that was where I wanted to be. But yeah, learning from our tutor's experiences; the bassist from Metallica came to do a 10 on 1 lesson and he was just right there (in front of us) going nuts. Robert Trujillo, yeah, that was it. He hadn't joined Metallica yet, I don't think. The auditions were the following year, if I'm not mistaken, and then we saw him on TV. It was awesome learning from all these dudes who are super successful in their own right and also telling us what to expect, that it's not all rose tinted glasses. You've got to work really hard to make it. And now I've found my calling in the last two years, as a music producer now. It

Wherever I May Roam

His social media handle describes him as an Alternative Rock singer for Hurricane Honey, songwriter, producer, owner of Jawbreaker Studio 485, and husband. Music lovers in Brunei and elsewhere known ‘Nol’ Ainol Kamaruddin as a veteran of the local indie music scene – the seasoned artist behind bands Mata Hari, and I Mean The Snakes, he’d played shows with huge artists like Lost Prophets and Bullet for My Valentine by the tender age of 20. Nol has now turned his hands to his solo project, NOL K. With an album release and live shows scheduled in the near future, we sat down to talk music, the power of pop and living out your big dreams. Catch his latest single ‘Golden Child’ on all good streaming platforms.

was always in the making. I've always been around producers in the studio when we've recorded all our band stuff. I’ve always been super curious and looking over the shoulders of producers that I’ve had the absolute pleasure to work with. Just to see them work their magic, was kind of mind boggling. To name a few of those great dudes: Faadzil Osman (Ziller), Tom Aitkenhead, Meyrick de la Fuente, Adam Groves, Zaid from Revolution Records, and last but not least my mentor, Mike Indovina.

You've had a very different childhood, I think, than maybe most people. How do you think that's affected your ability as a lyricist?

NK: A lyricist? Hugely. I love a play on words. One of my favorite lyricists is Brandon Boyd. I do analyze his lyrics a lot. Yeah, I mean, just the command of the English language, I have more of an advantage than some. I kind of thank Mum for, sort of spurring me on to music because she was very creative but she never got the chance to do it. So I guess she's kind of living vicariously through it?

Do you ever write in any other languages and would you like to?

NK: I'd like to try. I was pretty good at French but now it's almost gone. I used to practice it almost every day up till I was maybe 15. Taming of the Shrew is one of my favorite pieces by Shakespeare, and obviously ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’. Those two books are great. I love those. And then obviously I like the Big Friendly Giant as well by Roald Dahl. But yeah, most of (my) music or lyrics is really melancholic. Sort of reflecting on myself.

Why do you think it’s so melancholic?

NK: I think I'm just that type of person.

You’re just a melancholy guy?

NK: Yeah, it's so weird. In school I was this weird dude where I was like, the ‘jock’.

But then, I played in bands and I hung out with all the nerds and played video games and the jocks would be like, ‘What are you doing dude?’ I'm just having fun man, I'm just playing Street Fighter 1, you know? So I was that guy who was hanging around in those circles. I guess my way of thinking is more, I don't like being pigeonholed. Although I do alternative grunge, hard rock or whatever, or new metal, or hardcore punk, I also love listening to Nina Simone, Billie Holiday. And sometimes Taylor Swift, obviously, because you can learn a lot from her.

I mean, she honestly is a force to be reckoned with.

NK: Amazing, uh, even more so than Katy Perry and then recently, Olivia Rodrigo? I think she's like the next Taylor Swift. Yeah, me and my wife are really big fans of her. Because pop has gone into the production values of music now as well. It’s delved into hard rock (and) hard rock's gone into pop, etc., so all these like production techniques have sort of overlapped and these values have changed so much where everything is, literally all you can hear is the voice and melodyne. Now it's all sort of one big melting pot. As long as it sounds good, it must be good, I suppose? But just remember this is the ballpark that you need to be in within the rules of audio engineering’.

••

They’re slurpy and they’re slippery, they’re chewy and they’re chunky. What are we on about? Noodles, of course! This genius ingredient is so versatile that there are hundreds of noodle varieties and even more ways to enjoy the humble marriage of flour, water and salt. Dressed in a slick coating of oil or soaking up a flavourful soup or sauce, you’ll find tons of noodles to try in this month’s Appetite. We hope you’re hungry!

Kampong Kitchen (FA Sports Café)

Great home-style cooking lives right here at the Kampong Kitchen! Featuring Asian favourites from the region, we particularly love the Penang Kway Teow with Seafood; slippery white rice noodles get a good tumble in the high-heat wok with dark Soy Sauce, and some very tasty sambal that adds a kick of spice to balance out the sweet caramelisation in the pan. The addition of crunchy bean sprouts, fresh seafood like cuttlefish or plump prawns, and creamy egg makes

this one heck of an addictive dish! Longing for a little more simplicity? The Kolo Mee Ayam Bakar is a satisfying combination that pairs the sweetness of a charred sweet marinade with the slurpalicious savouriness of a Sarawakstyle Kolo Mee!

••

Unit 6, Grd Flr Blk K, Bangunan Pg Hj Menudin & Anak-Anak, Jln Batu Bersurat, Bandar Seri Begawan IG: @kampongkitchen.bn

A. Ayam

Mama knows best, and the family recipes that are behind this decades-long Bruneian brand are comfort eats and Asean favourites that will put a smile on everyone’s face. The signature Kolo Mee is a meaty, tummy-satisfying meal that has a ton of work and heart put into it much like everything on the menu. These are not your average noodles - produced to A.Ayam’s strict specifications - each springy bite, coated with their special (and secret!) oil dressing, pairs perfectly with their generous serving of broasted and grilled chicken pieces. If you’re a spice fiend, try the Geprek Kolo Mee and milder Black Pepper sauce versions!

••

GADONG BRANCH:

Unit 113, Grd Flr, Bangunan Kumbang Pasang, Bandar Seri Begawan

MASIN BRANCH:

Unit 1, Simpang 122,Jalan Bengkurong Masin,Bandar Seri Begawan

IG: @aayambrunei

Vanda (Mulia Hotel)

Cantonese Dim Sum is a delight to indulge in, and when you have some of the very best right here in Brunei… Well, consider this our reservation for a seat at Vanda Chinese Restaurant! Who can resist those soft, slightly chewy rice noodles enrobing juicy prawns or BBQ chicken chunks. Typically made from a combination of flours and water, Vanda prides itself on crafting high-quality food that are made fresh daily to maintain optimal taste and texture. They honour the traditional Hong Kong recipe and are constantly exploring new techniques and flavours to elevate the dining experience. We love the Cakoi Cheong Fun and the XO Sauce Stir-fried Cheong Fun for a cool, new twist on things!

•• Spg 9 Kg, Jalan Anggerek Desa, Bandar Seri Begawan BB3713

IG: @muliahotelbruneibwn

The White Sand Café

For delicious Indonesian fare, the serene White Sands café has you covered with its renditions of the classic dishes, Soto Betawai from bustling Jakarta, and Soto Bandung from West Java – and we’re certain you’ll find much to love about both! If you’re a mee kuning fan, the thick yellow noodles of the hearty Betawi are chunky enough to soak up the rich and beefy spiced coconut milk broth, and have a good springiness to stand up to the plethora of ingredients like boiled eggs, potato, fried tofu, fresh tomato and of course the trifecta of fried onions, fresh parsley and spring onion chunks.

Beef slices are a classic, but the tender chicken thigh option is almost better! Looking for something a bit lighter but just as flavourful? White Sand’s Soto Bandung will sit in your tummy like a gentle hug; thin rice vermicelli sits in a clear and light broth, with chunks of sweet radish and fried tofu and of course, a protein of your choice. Generous sprinklings of fried soy beans add another element to this party of flavours!

••

Unit 1.28, 1st Flr, (behind Paloma), The Mall, Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan BE3519 IG: @thewhitesandcafe.bn

Yamyam Korea Food

Home of Brunei’s first Korean Fried Chicken, Yam Yam’s reputation extends to the rest of their menu. Noodles are a huge part of Korean cuisine - we covet their version of the classic Army Stew (Budae Jigae). It’s sweet and spicy, it’s saucy, it’s packed with a ton of fresh ingredients and delicious chewy ramyun noodles. So simple but oh so satisfying! Try the Rabboki - the combination of the bouncy rice cakes and chicken ramyun is so fun to eat and like the Army Stew, built for sharing. Grab a friend or two and be ready for a flavour feast. Mr. and Mrs. Oh, are the adorable couple behind this family venture; they started Yam Yam in 2009 with a desire to bring authentic Korean food to the nation and boy are we glad for it!

••

Unit 19,20,21,22,23 Little Soho complex, Batu Bersurat, Jalan Batu Bersurat, Bandar Seri Begawan

IG: @yamyamkorea_bn

Ricebowl Victory

Kedai D’HarithKopi

Everyone’s favourite halal Kolo Mee had to make this list, reminding us that often the best things are the simplest. There are no fancy tricks here, just a really good bowl of springy noodles tossed in a savoury scallion oil, fresh chopped chives for an oniony burst and of course their succulent roast duck slices that have the perfect balance of five-spice herb mix and a sweet, ever so slight earthiness of the duck meat. Of course, there is a juicy chicken option (steamed or roasted) for chicken lovers. Doused in their signature green chilli sauce, it’s a go-to meal for any time of the day. You’ll want to pre-order or make sure you get there early in the morning before they run out!

••

Ricebowl is known for its heart-warming comfort food, featuring unique home-style dishes that evoke the love and flavours of a familiar kitchen. A standout on their menu is the Corned Beef Kway Teow, a beloved noodle bowl. Picture generous portions of perfectly cooked corned beef on hot noodles, mingling with a savoury sauce and topped with a sunny side up egg. The magic happens when the yolk spills over, infusing the flat noodles with its rich, eggy goodness, creating a comforting bowl that feels like a warm, delicious hug. Don't forget to add a generous dollop of their spicy Boss Chili for that extra zing!

••

TCY Building, No.72 Jalan Batu Bersurat, Bandar Seri Begawan IG: @ricebowlvictory

Unit 20, Ground Floor HMR Complex, Jalan Komersial Jaya Setia, Bandar Seri Begawan

IG: @kedaikopi_dharith

@soedimampircoffee.lab

eat, drink

Brunei

The Daun

Tasanee Fast Food (Seria Kway Teow)

If you want great Kway Teow, this is where you come. Practically an institution in Brunei, this decades-old business has just branched out with a new spot in the Sunway commercial block. Think modernday kopitiam vibes, with cool swatches of forest green and umber colours dotting the cool interior. Their signature rice noodles are still handmade fresh daily, trumping the cheaper flour-based varieties, ready for their quick fry up in blazing fired woks and a sweet soy base we just can’t get enough of. And of course, the secret sauce: their spicy sambal. It’s made fresh too, with a mix of imported Thai and local ingredients for a taste that is irrefutably delicious. Paired with a plate of their Sunway-only appetisers, it’s a meal we could easily eat every day.

••

SUNWAY BRANCH:

Ground Floor, Unit 13, Sunway Centre, Block B

Jln Muara

GADONG BRANCH:

Ground Floor, Spg 5, Bangunan Hjh Fatimah, Jln Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan IG: @tasannefastfood

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Kiulap, The Daun is making waves for their epic menu of vegetarian Asian Fusion dishes in a gorgeous, light-filled modern restaurant. A comforting, warm bowl of Mee Jawa can cure any bad day, and you’ll find one of the most delicious versions of this traditional Javanese dish at The Daun! Yellow egg noodles are dressed in the restaurant’s signature gravy sauce that is nutty, savoury and a little bit spicy. The family-run vegetarian establishment spent months developing the Mee Jawa (one of the patriarch’s favourite childhood dishes) to try recreate their father’s memory of the dish and the end result is a wonderful bowl-shaped memoir filled with sweet, sour and umami flavours - and amazingly enough fully vegetarian! They’ve replaced the meat and stock with plant-based meat and vegetable broth, making this hearty and light enough to have seconds. Because you will definitely want more.

••

Nasi Ayam Mentiri

Yes, we know. What’s a Chicken Rice shop doing in a noodle feature? Their worst-kept secret on the menu: Fish Noodle Soup. This one really surprised us as we were not expecting the execution of this complex tasting soup to have such finesse. Local and fresh white fish chunks (have it your way, fried or steamed) sits atop a glorious seafood broth that is deeply savoury yet balanced with tang, sweetness and salty flavours where you can truly taste the sea. It’s a big bowl that fills you up with heartfelt cooking and love. ••

Block B No.1-6, Ground Floor, Bangunan Pg. Hj. Aliuddin & Pg. Hjh. Indun Spg 273, Jln Kota Batu, Mentiri BU1929

IG: @nasiayammentiri

Unit 1 & 2, Ground Floor, Block A, Wisma P H Apong, SPG150, Kiulap BE1518

IG: @thedaun.bn

Shiraz

Love a KK-style Fish Noodle Soup? Shiraz has got one of the best versions here, topped with chunks of luxurious fried Grouper fish that’s brought in daily and has the classic balance of tang and umami from fresh tomatoes and a clear fish-bone broth that satisfies any stomach. It’s no wonder this is a top-rated dish at Shiraz! If you’re craving a different kind of seafood flavour, try their delicious Big Prawn Noodle Soup that will make you wonder why you ever thought a prawn cocktail crisp was realistic. As if it couldn’t get better, prices are super reasonable for the large portions of quality food.

••

KIULAP BRANCH

Unit 18-19, Ground floor, Block B, Q-lap Complex BE1518 Kampong Kiulap, Brunei

JERUDONG BRANCH

U2-4, Ground floor, Block B, Spg 372, Jalan Jerudong, Kg. Sengkurong BG3122, Brunei FB: Shiraz Seafood Restaurant IG: @shirazseafood

Shi Wei Tian

If you’re craving authentic Sarawak Kolo Mee, Shi Wei Tian’s going to satisfy immensely. Coated in a salty lard oil, the springy noodles come all the way from Sarawak and are so satisfying to eat with the crunchy lard bits, minced pork and meaty char siu slices. You’ve also got the option of customising your bowl to your heart’s desire, whether you favour Lao Shu Fen, Kolo Mee, Tang Hoon, Bee Hoon, you name it - and their list of add-ons mean there are endless ways to enjoy the delicious noodles at Shi Wei Tian.

••

Unit 15, Grd Flr, Block B, Qlap Complex, Kg., Bandar Seri Begawan, BE1518

IG: @shiweitian_kopitiam

Hungry Bar

This soul-satisfying bowl of noodles from The Hungry Bar has all the classic components of a traditional pork-based Japanese ramen. The Momofuku name is not a reference to the David Chang restaurant, coming instead from her Okinawan university roommate. The result is a collagen-rich broth simmered for 48-hours with a smooth mouthfeel that slurps down easily. Loaded with springy yellow noodles, chunky, charred slices of pork chashu and the all-important ramen egg, it’s a beast of a bowl! Go one step up and have it with their house chilli that packs a real punch - the real Okinawan way. It’s hard to decide between this and the Pork Guksu, an elegant Korean dish that they’ve tweaked to near perfection. Thin rice noodles, sliced pork belly and other fresh condiments sit in a light and flavourful pork bone broth that is so popular, some patrons even come in daily to start their day with it.

••

Block A, Unit 5, Qlap Complex BS8711 Bandar Seri Begawan

IG: @hungrybarbrunei

NON HALAL

NON HALAL

eat, drink Sabah

Kah Hiong Ngiu Chap

eat, drink Sarawak eat, drink Kalimantan

Lau

Ya

Keng Foodcourt

For a place as famous and historic as Lau Ya Keng Foodcourt, it surprisingly has little to no social media presence; no fancy official Facebook or Instagram page but multiple reviews and blogs online tout this as the place to go for great Sarawakian food. You can find both Sarawak Laksa and Kolo Mee available at this beautiful converted Chinese Opera house and a stroll along the main road will inevitably lead you to the motherland somewhere in the middle. There’s very little that can go wrong with eating here but don’t expect a fancy restaurant with air-conditioning. Lau Ya Keng is usually busy in the early mornings so order up from one of the many vendors there and grab a table! The majority of food here contains pork for those requiring halal meals.

•• 19, Carpenter St, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak

Touted as the best Beef Stew Noodle Soup in Sabah, this long standing restaurant has a reputation for supremely flavourful beef bone broth, that the owner purportedly spends his days and nights cooking. They’ve since expanded their menu to include other beefy plates like stew and rice bowls, beef curry and snacks but the heart of this business remains the famed Ngiu Chap. You can mix and match your favourite beef parts with various noodles - all of course, delicious options. For a heavier meal, the soydoused coating over yellow noodles and an accompanying big bowl of tender beef chunks, thick tendons and melt in your mouth shavings of hotpot slices swimming in a soup rich with meaty and fresh herb flavours, will make you sit back in your chair and pat your tummy with glee. They have multiple branches across both the states of Sabah and Sarawak, including a branch in Miri so you are never far from a great bowl of Ngiu Chap!

••

2-0-10, Lorong Taman Nosoob Jaya Phase 2, Kolam Centre, 93450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah IG: @kahhiongngiuchap_

Mie BaliSagu Lestari

Sago noodles are a specialty in the West Kalimantan area, loved for the soft but chewy texture that the sago flour gives these traditional noodles. They’re also popular as a healthier noodle variety being gluten-free and preservative free. Much like a beloved Kolo Mee or soup noodles of our closer neighbours Sabah and Sarawak, vendors offering this simple but hearty dish are a dime a dozen in Kalimantan. Mie Sagu can be served a variety of ways and at Mie Sagu Bali Lestari, it’s well-loved for the balanced taste of the clear broth version that is savoury and a little peppery. It often comes served with a heaping of peanuts and fresh coriander on the top but you can opt out of these if you’re not a fan.

••

Jl Tanjung raya 2, Jl. Komp. Bali Lestari Blk. H - I No.b 8, Saigon, Kec. Pontianak Tim., Kota Pontianak, Kalimantan Barat 78243

IG: @miesagu_balilestari

TASTE OF ASIA

VIETNAMESE PHO, THAI

TOM YAM, JAPANESE SUSHI, KOREAN KIMCHI AND BRUNEIAN AMBUYAT – THIS LIST COVERS MOST OF OUR FAVOURITE ASIAN DELIGHTS.

Ahan Thai

10 Blk B Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2452852)

5 Blk A, Grd Flr, Hau Man Yong Complex, Kg Kiulap (673 2230304)

Ah Mit’s Delicacy Café

No 13, Grd Flr, Impiana Jaya Complex, Kiulap (673 889 0024)

All Seasons Restaurant

17 1st Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2338068)

Brunei

Guidelines:

The restaurants and eateries listed are arranged by food types, and not in order of our preference. Reviews are written from a typical diner’s perspective and written based on actual visits to the establishments listed, without the prior knowledge of the restaurants. Information given on menus, hours or prices may change and should be checked. In Brunei, all restaurants are closed between 12 noon and 2 pm on Fridays.

Aminah Arif

2 & 3 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2236198) – Call for other branches

Aneka Rasa

Blk A #17 & 18 Grd & 1st Flr Bgn Begawan Pehin Dato Hj Mohd Yussof, Kg Kiulap (673 2231728)

Anjung Layar Luncur (Nur Wanita Serasa Branch)

Simpang 287, Pantai Serasa (673 2771879)

Ar Ruhma Restaurant

329 Blk D Bgn Gadong Central, Kg Menglait

Unit 29, Blk D, Bgn Gadong Central, Spg 21, Kg Menglait, Jln Gadong (673 2427847)

Axtivo Restaurant

#12, Grd Flr, Hj Uthman Complex, Spg 13, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2335642)

Babu’s Kitchen

C44 Blk C Grd Flr Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 2457868)

Bali Pit-Stop

15 &16, Spg 150 Grd Floor, Block A Bangunan Habza, Kiulap (673 7209992)

Chatterbox Kopitiam

2 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbullah 2, Gadong (673 8201212)

Excapade Serusop

Unit 4&5, Spg 86, Complex PHB, Kg Delima Satu, Jln Muara (673 2335512) – Call for other branches

Farmbasket Snack Bar

A1, Grd Flr Blk A, Urairah Complex, Spg 88, Kiulap (673 2234666) – Call for other branches

Gurkha Palace

47 Jalan Bunga Melor, Seria Town (673 3221474)

Gratitude Café

Grd Flr Serusop

Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 2341123)

Great Taste Restaurant

Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2233913)

Happy Dean Restaurant

No 3, Grd Flr, Zainuddin Complex, Spg 11, Anggerek Desa, Berakas A (673 2340885) – Call for other branches

Impian Rasa Restaurant

MyTown Eating House

Grd Flr The Crown Princess Complex, Jalan Tutong (673 2241880)

Restoran Nyonya

3 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbullah 1, Gadong (673 2447090)

F7 & F8, Grf Flr Blk 5, Lot No. 5788, Setia Kenangan, Kiulap (673 2232486)

Pattaya Restaurant

Spg 302, Jln Kota Batu, Sungai Lampai, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2241721)

PappaRich

Blk G Grd Flr Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2432333)

Pho Hoa Restaurant

#6 Grd Flr Blk B Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kg Kiulap (673 2236218)

Amsarra Shawarma

Unit 5, Grd Flr, Blk A, One Riverside, Jln Gadong (673 7312545)

Blue Restaurant

Unit 19, Grd Flr, Blk C, Spg 493, Kg Beribi, Jln Gadong (673 2450458)

C’Fu Curry House Restaurant Spg 103 #5 & 6 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Md Salleh, Gadong (673 2457000)

Delhi Darbar Restaurant & Catering Spg 38 Jln Jerudong (673 2672826)

Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant

1A & 1B Heng Thai Property Centre, Spg 22, Jalan Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 2450009)

Iskandar Curry House

#5 Bgn Pg Hjh Rafiah Spg 607 Jln Jangsak, Gadong (673 2653858)

– Call for other branches

Iron Chef

Unit 5&6, Lvl 1, HuaHo Manggis Mall (673 2338888)

Kaka Restaurant

2 & 3 Spg 100 Jln Jerudong (673 2672333)

– Call for other branches

La Mee

#1B & 1c Grd Flr Spg 41-1-12, Jln Kiarong (673 2430113)

Lee Loi Fatt

Blk A #7 Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 2342384) – Call for other branches

Mangrove Paradise Resort

Spg 912 Kg Sungai Belukut, Jln Kota Batu (673 2786868)

MY Favoureat Restaurant

9 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2232828)

Rice Bowl

72 T.C.Y Building, Batu Bersurat (673 8630665)

Sapphira Cake House

3 Grd Flr Seri Anigma, Kiulap (673 2232021)

Seasons Restaurant

Lvl 2 The Centrepoint, Gadong (673 2422291)

Seafood Palace

#1, 2 & 3 Blk B An-Nuha Building, Kg Tanjung Bunut (673 2671299)

Seaworld Neptune

8 Spg 791, Jerudong (673 2612613)

Sate House

Unit B9, Block B, Setia Kenangan II, Spg.150, Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2231017)

Sulbingsoo Korean Dessert Cafe

Unit B7, Grd Flr, Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2234271)

SPICY CURRY & WRAPS

FROM ARABIC TO INDIAN CUISINE, CHECK OUT THESE RESTAURANTS IF YOU LIKE A SPICY KICK TO YOUR MEALS.

Unit B5, One Riverside, Jln Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan BA1511 (673 2422438)

Kausar Café

Unit 10, Grd Flr, Blk D, Shakirin Complex, Jln Komersial Kiulap, Kiulap (673 8829495 )

LaMesa Restaurant

Unit 8, Jln Komersial Kiulap, Kg Kiulap (673 2352863)

Le Taj

2-3 2nd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 2238996)

Lotus Family Restaurant

27B Grd Flr Delima Jaya Complex, Berakas (673 2342049)

Rajah’s Restaurant

3 Grd Flr Blk A Bangunan PAP Umi Kalthum, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2240379)

Sugar ‘n’ Spice Unit B1, Grd Flr, Purnama Complex, Kiulap (673 2303930)

CONNECT WITH US

28, Grd Flr, Citis Square, Spg 13-41, Jln Komersial Jaya Setia, Berakas (673 2332493)

GADONG BRANCH No. 3, Hasbullah Building 1, Jalan Gadong, Gadong, BE3719 8272272 | 2447090

KIULAP BRANCH

Unit No.F7 & F8, GF Block F, Lot No. 5788, Setia Kenangan, Kiulap, BE1518 8772486 | 223286

CHICK-IN

We’re crowing with joy! Come here for quality feasts at Brunei’s only Thai-style Fried Chicken restaurant! Think JUICY fried chicken legs loaded with fried shallots and the addictive dipping sauce that is all the quintessential flavours of authentic Thai cuisine. Fresh ingredients are sourced locally to maintain high quality food, but much of the imported Thai ingredients give Chick-in its unmistakeable taste. But it’s much more than just Thai food at Chick-in. Flavour packed burgers like the Classic Chicken with Mushroom Sauce, delicious Tom Yam noodles and of course, the best part of any meal - DESSERT! There’s amazing technical skill in their Red Ruby which holds true to the original Thai version with smoked Coconut Milk and all natural ingredients. Ice cream lovers will die for the Pang Yen, similar to Korean Bingsu. Topped with crunchy biscuit and wafer sticks, it’s always a party in your tummy at Chick-in! They also do their best to provide the safest eating experience for kids with their food-grade printed packaging so all you get is the great taste of Chick-in and no nasties.

Unit B1, Lot 18985, Simpang 42, Jalan Mulaut, Bandar Seri Begawan IG: @chickin.bn

Buccaneer Steak House

92-93 (B) 94 Grd Flr Jln McKerron, Kuala Belait (673 3330406)

Bella Amore

Unit 4, Grd Flr, Blk C, Sempurna Complex, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 3347455)

Casbah London Kebab

#G2a Grd Flr Times Square Complex, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2343001)

204, Spg 210, Kg Lambak, Jln Berakas (673 2340559)

Charcoal BBQ & Grill Restaurant

Grd Flr Le Gallery Suites Hotel, Jln Tutong (673 2221171)

Cheezbox Café

External Café, Ramp A, The Mall, Gadong (673 2425506)

Countrypatch Café

2& 3 Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2232368)

De’ Olde Cottage

2 Grd Flr Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2426982)

Fratini’s Restaurant

Saffron Restaurant

8 Blk C Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2235888)

Sameer Restaurant & Catering

G1 Grd Flr Sg Akar Sentral, Berakas (673 2336613)

No. 27 Blk B, Grd Flr, Rimba Complex, Kg Rimba (673 2428676)

Spices Restaurant

#1 Grd Flr Blk A Aman Complex, Jln Muara (673 2330081)

Ya Nur Restaurant

#6 & #7, 1st Flr, Kompleks Hj Tahir 2, Gadong (673 8719986)

Zaika Restaurant

A4 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 3347430)

WESTERN FOOD

ITALIAN PIZZAS, AMERICAN STEAKS AND BURGERS, BRITISH COTTAGE PIES

– WE LIST DOWN THE RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE THE BEST FROM THE WEST.

Bello Café

L1/12 Seri Kiulap Mall, Kiulap (673 2233989)–Call for other branches

#1 Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 2451200) –Call for other branches

Flour & Butter

No. 29, Grd Flr, Bangunan Haji Hassan Abdullah, Jln Gadong, Menglait II (673 242 2323)

Geo Eats

No. 13, Spg 381, Kg Jerudong (673 8271381)

Home Kitchen by Tree-Bit Café

D8 & D9 Lot 11620 Grd Flr Jln Gadong, Kg MataMata (673 2429366)

Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 8997333)

Margherita Pizzeria

#5 Blk A Scout Complex Jln Gadong, Kg MataMata (673 8688884)

Pastamania

G9A & G10A Grd Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Jln Berakas (673 2338061) – Call for other branches

A.Ayam

Enjoy up to 10% off with TAIB cards.

Unit 1, Spg 122, Jln Bengkurong Masin, BSB (673 2650471)

IG:@aayambrunei FB: A.Ayam Brunei

Anjung Saujana (RBC)

Enjoy up to 12% off with TAIB cards.

Departure Hall, Lvl 1, Brunei International Airport, BSB (673 2331853) IG: @anjungsaujanrestaurant

FB: Anjung Saujana Restaurant

Area 8

Enjoy up to 15% off with TAIB cards.

#8, Blk A, One Riverside, Jln Gadong Kumbang Pasang, BSB (673 7370123) IG: @area8restaurant

FB: Area 8, Surf & Turf Restaurant

Bombay Palace Restaurant

Enjoy up to 10% off with TAIB cards.

Blk B, Bangunan Hj Menuddin, Jln Batu Bersurat, BSB (673 2427313) IG: @bombaypalacebrunei

FB: Bombay Palace Brunei

Dapur Penyet

Enjoy up to 10% off with TAIB cards.

#9, Grd Flr, Blk C, Delima Square, BSB (673 233 0033)

IG: @dapurpenyetbrunei FB: Dapur Penyet Brunei

Goldiana Café & Lounge

Enjoy up to 15% off with TAIB cards.

Mulia Hotel, BSB (673 2335544)

IG: @muliahotelbruneibwn FB: Mulia Hotel Brunei

Grills and More

Enjoy up to 10% off with TAIB cards.

#3, Grd & 1st Flr, Blk C, Bangunan Hj A Rahman and Hjh Siti

Ajar & Anak-anak, Kg. Kiulap, BSB (673 2577986)

IG: @grillsandmorearabic.bn FB: Grills & More Restaurant

Le Apple Bakery & Mart

Enjoy up to 10% off with TAIB cards.

#27 & 28, Grd Flr, Bangunan Hj Hassan Abdullah, Menglait, Jln Gadong, BSB (673 2447885) IG: @leapplebakery

FB: Le Apple Bakery & Mart

Pepper Lunch Brunei C9/10 Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2253000)

Qasehmaisara Café House #206-209 2nd Flr Plaza Athirah, Jln Kubah Makam DiRaja (673 2789898)

Red Canopy Restaurant #8 Blk A Q-Lap Complex, Kg Kiulap (673 2425855)

Ricardo’s El Mariachi Jalan Manggis Dua (673 7363139) – Call or WhatsApp for exact location

Sorriso Restaurant & Pizzeria #14 Blk B Grd Flr Regent Square, Kiulap (673 2233030)

Swensen’s

#2.34-2.36 2nd Flr The Mall, Gadong (673 2451864)

CAFE HOPPING GOURMET, PREMIUMGRADE, SPECIALTY COFFEE –THIS LIST ACCOMMODATES THE BEST OF THE BURGEONING LOCAL COFFEE INDUSTRY.

Beanery & Co

#81 A/1 Grd Flr, Jln Bunga Rambai, Kuala Belait (673 3347772)

BELLUNO Café

#2 Blk C Kiarong Complex, Kg Kiarong (673 2429010)

Bicara Lab 2601, Jln Nakhoda Manis, Seria (IG: @ bicara.lab)

Brew Café & Bakery

#47 Grd Flr Blk C Gadong Central, Menglait (673 2427554)

Brew9

Unit 10, Grd Flr, The Walk, Beribi (673 2426986)

Black Whale

Unit G18A, Grd Flr, Blk C, Aman Hills Shopping Complex (673 2341473) - Call for other branches

Caffé Verve

#6A Spg 68, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 8757382)

Coffee Field Cafe & Resto

Unit 5, Grd Flr, Blk A, Little Soho, Spg 73-5-8, Jln Batu Besurat (673 7229042)

Dil Coffee Trail No 15, Spg 68, Jln 82, Skim Perumahan Kg

Rimba (673 8298786)Available on WA

Countrypatch Café

3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2232368)

Fleur-de-lys

L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 2231777) –call for other branches

Games & Lattes Café

#E9 Grd Flr Blk E Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 2235200)

Happy Cream

Unit 1, 1st Flr, Bgn

Majid Mohd, Jln Pasar Baharuddin, Gadong (673 8158587)

High Frequency Lifestyle Café 1st Flr Unit 5 Blk B Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2428262)

Kapra Coffee

#26 Grd Flr Blk C Spg 440, Jln Muara (673 2345656)

Noice

D29, Bangunan Lim Eng

Ming, Kg Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan, BE1518 (673 8266825)

Piccolo Café #11 Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2241558)

Roasted Sip

Unit 3, Grd Flr, Blk D, Spg 508, Jerudong Complex, Jln Jerudong (673 2610850) – Call for other branches

The Library Café #6 Blk C, Bangunan Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap

T’s Coffee

No 6, Blk D, A1, Lower Grd Flr, 1 SKH Supermarket, Spg 561, The Promenade Samakaya, Jln Muara (673 7171089)

The Slice by IA Gateaux Jalan Pretty, Kuala Belait (673 3338255 / 7374498) - Available on WA

Two Sons Backyard Inside Surf Shack, Peak Club, RBRC Main Building, Brunei International Airport Highway (673 7321327)

CAFE HOPPING AT COFFEE BEAN & TEA LEAF

@ Times Square Shopping Centre, Berakas 8AM-12AM

@ Supa Save Mata-Mata, Beribi 8AM-12AM

@ Maya Puri Building, Bandar 8AM-12AM

@ CentrePoint, Gadong 8AM-12AM

@ One Riverside, Gadong 8AM-12AM

@ One City Shopping Centre 9AM-12AM

@ The Mall 10AM-9PM

@ Yayasan Shopping Complex 10AM-9PM

@ Jerudong Park Medical Centre 7.30AM-11PM

@ Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre 7.30AM-11PM

@ Supa Save Seria 7AM-11PM

@ Seaview Hotel, KB 6.30AM-11PM

@ Soon Lee Muara 9AM-8.30PM

@ Soon Lee Berakas 9AM-9PM

@ Hua Ho Manggis 9.30AM-9PM

@ Rimba Point 9.30AM-9PM

@ Food Truck Sengkurong 9.30AM-9PM

@ Kiulap

7AM-11.30PM

DIVINE DINING EXQUISITE MEALS IN BEAUTIFUL SETTINGS –PERFECT FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

The Horizons Seafood Restaurant Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2233400)

I-Lotus

20 Spg 12-26 Perumahan Rakyat Jati, Kg Rimba (673 2422466)

Creamy & Dreamy

Vanilla Ice Blended® drink coffeebean_brunei thecoffeebeanbrunei

Le Keris L2/22, 1st Flr, Seri Q-Lap Mall (673 2230149)

Senja Restaurant

8&9 Grd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 2235313)

Tarindak d’Polo

Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Jerudong (673 2612500)

Tarindak D’Seni Brunei Arts & Handicrafts Centre, Kota Batu (673 2240422)

DIVINE DINING AT THE EMPIRE BRUNEI

Atrium Café

Daily à la carte plated breakfast menu from 7am to 11am

Lobby Lounge

À la carte menu from 10am to 10pm

Pantai Restaurant

Daily à la carte plated lunch menu from 11am to 4pm

Daily à la carte Asian plated dinner menu from 5pm to 9pm

Spaghettini

Daily à la carte Mediterranean dinner menu from 5am to 5pm

Zest

Light meals, beverages, pastries and desserts. Daily from 8am to 10pm

The Empire Brunei, Jerudong (673 2418888)

GO GREEN HEALTHY AND VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY OPTIONS

Brunei Detox Bar

9 Grd Flr, Abdul Razak Complex, BE3519

Fuel’d Grd Flr, Unit A4, Setia Kenangan 2 (673 8749881) – Call for other branches

Mituo Vegetarian Restaurant

Grd Flr Pg Anak Puteri Norain Complex, Batu Satu (673 2222821)

Pureland Vegetarian Restaurant

#15 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj

Awg Ahmad bin Hassan & Anak-anak, Kiulap (673 2236503)

The Daun 1 & 2, Grd Flr, Blk A, Wisma P H Apong, SPG150, Kiulap (673 8628888)

TienSing Vegetarian & Catering Restaurant

21-22 Bangunan Hj Hassan II, Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 2454988)

Veggie Recipe No.20, Grd Flr, Blk B, Simpang 150, Regent Square (673 2236276)

QUICK EATS

FAST AND DELICIOUS MEALS FOR THOSE ON THE GO

Burger King

Grd Flr, Citis Square, Kpg Jaya Setia, Berakas A, BruneiMuara (673 2330760) – Call for other branches

My Fried Chicken Grd Flr, Freshco Food Junction, Times Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 8686861)

DAPOER SUMATRA

Growing from their original single menu of pempek lenjer, the owners of Dapoer Sumatra found a growing fan base for food from the home of the Padang cuisine which is famous for its use of coconut milk and spicy chili. Essential Sumatran dishes such as Sate Padang, Soto Padang, Nasi Padang, Pindang Patin, dominate the rotating menu with more dishes from across the Indonesian archipelago being included so customers will never get bored trying a different dish every day! Go for the packed rice Nasi Rendang and Nasi Padang Balado but beware, the heat packs a punch. Their rendang meat is cooked at a low temperature for approximately eight hours for tender meat and the spices are absorbed until the final chew. It’s typically black in colour - the flavours are incredibly intense and the spice level may knock your socks off. If you’re adventurous, the Gulai Kikil or Kulit Sapi (Cow Foot) is actually deliciously soft and fatty, with a great coating of creamy curry. They’re on a tapau basis only and quickly sell out preorders.

IG: @dapoer_sumatra.bn

Nasi Katok Mama

Express

No 3 Blk A Grd Flr

Kompleks Madang, Madang (673 8641681)

Pan & Wok

Grd Flr, Spg 98, Bangunan Hjh Dyg Damit Bte Panglima Asgar Dato

Paduka Hj Awg Abdullah, Delima Satu, Berakas A (673 2342399) – Call for other branches

RBC Express Fast Food

#1 Grd Flr Blk A, Bangunan Hj Matussin, Kg Kiulap (673 2237253)

Top Nosh Café

Unit 1, Grd Flr, Bangunan Majid Mohammad, Spg 235-7, Jln Pasar Gadong (673 2453889)

Wayback Burgers

Unit B10-11, Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2236882)

NON-HALAL OPTIONS

Ban Hiong Restaurant

No. 1, Spg 600, Bunut, Kilanas, Brunei-Muara (673 2652426)

Golden Leaf Coffee House

Blk 1 Grd Flr PAP Hjh Norain Building, Jln Batu Satu (673 2220422)–Call for other branches

Phongmun Restaurant

2nd Flr Teck Guan Plaza Jln Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2229561)

Sui Heng Restaurant

Grd Flr Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah Complex, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2338321)

Hua Hua Restaurant

Grd Flr, Blk B, Bangunan Urairah, Kiulap

Wei’s Kitchen

No.1, Spg 74-74-31, Kg Mata-Mata

LiHO Tea

Enjoy up to 15% off with TAIB cards.

One City Shopping Centre, #24, Grd Flr, Sg Hancing, BSB (673 7339616) IG: @lihobrunei FB: LiHOBrunei

Lof Cakes & Bakery

Enjoy up to 15% off with TAIB cards.

J & Lof Cafe. #8, Grd Flr, Blk C, Delima Square, BSB (673 7377588) IG: @lof_bakery

Old Time Kopitiam

Enjoy up to 10% off with TAIB cards.

#8, Blk A, Bangunan Warisan Complex, Spg 24 Gadong, Jln Gadong, BSB (673 244 8282)

IG: @oldtimekopitiam FB: Oldtime Kopitiam

Rizqun Coffee House

Enjoy up to 20% off with TAIB cards.

The Rizqun International Hotel, Abdul Razak Complex, BSB (673 2423000) IG: @rizquninternationalhotel

Secret Recipe

Enjoy up to 10% off with TAIB cards.

#8, Blk E, Medan Tanjong Bunut, Jln TG Bunut Kanan, BSB (673 2672737) - Call for other branches

IG: @secretrecipe.brunei FB: Secret Recipe Brunei

Tandoor.com

Enjoy up to 15% off with TAIB cards.

#3 & 4, 1st Flr, Bangunan Hj Majid Mohamad, Gadong, BSB (673 2450182) IG: @tandoorbrunei FB: Tandoor.com

The Kampong Kitchen

Enjoy up to 10% off with TAIB cards.

#6, Grd Flr, Blk K, Bangunan Pg Hj Menudin & Anak-Anak, Jln Batu Bersurat, BSB (673 2451994)

IG:@kampongkitchen.bn FB: Kampong Kitchen

The White Sand Café

Enjoy up to 15% off with TAIB cards.

#1.28, 1st Flr, The Mall, BSB (673 7438887)

IG: @thewhitesandcafe.bn FB: The White Sand Café

Vanda Chinese Restaurant

Enjoy up to 15% off with TAIB cards.

Mulia Hotel, Spg 9, Kg. Jln Anggerek Desa, BSB (673 7299599) IG: @muliahotelbruneibwn

FB: Mulia Hotel Brunei

Sabah & Sarawak

The restaurants and eateries listed are arranged by food types, and not in order of our preference. Reviews are written from a typical diner’s perspective and written based on actual visits to the establishments listed, without the prior knowledge of the restaurants. Information given on menus, hours or prices may change and should be checked.

Credit Cards : AE | American Express MC | MasterCard V | Visa

EAT (SABAH)

ASEN KAYAN RESTAURANT

Blk A, Grd Flr, Lot 5, Shop A-G-5, Inanam Taipan, 28/1, Inanam New Township, Kota Kinabalu (6016 927 3206)

BORNEO WILD TREASURE

Lot 23A Blk C, Grd Flr, Bundusan Square, Jln Bundusan, Penampang (6013 701 1622)

BRASS MONKEY CAFE & BAR

Lot No. 1-0, Lorong Lintas Plaza 4, Kota Kinabalu (6088 748 797)

CAFE BOLEH @ SUTERA HARBOUR RESORT

1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Sutera Harbour, 88300 Kota Kinabalu (6088 303 671)

CAFÉ DE VIE

Unit 6, Blk D, Metro Town Lorong Metro 3, Kota Kinabalu (6014 332 6131)

CAFÉ HARU

1, Jln Lintas, Kolam Centre, Kota Kinabalu (6010 935 1233)

EMPEROR’S DELIGHT

Lot 111, opposite ESSO Station Jln Pantai, Sabak Bernam District (6088 288 686)

GAM TONG HONG KONG RECIPE

Lot 2, Grd Flr, Blk A, City Mall 88300 Kota Kinabalu (6018 327 9696)

GRANDCHAMP’S CAVE & SHOP

Unit S3, Grd Flr, Blk B, The Peak Vista, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 886)

HUT STEAK HOUSE & RESTAURANT

Grd Flr, Lot 29, Blk E, Damai Plaza, Phase 3, Luyang 88300 Kota Kinabalu (6088 238 558)

JOTHY’S FISH HEAD CURRY & BANANA LEAF

Blk 1, Lot G9, Api-Api Centre, Lorong Api-Api, Jln Centre Point, 88000 Kota Kinabalu (6012 414 8533)

KEDAI KOPI WAH JUAN

Jalan Lee Thau Sang, Pekan Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu (6016 830 6160)

KEDAI KOPI YEE FUNG

127, Jln Gaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu (6088 312 042)

KOHINOOR NORTH INDIAN RESTAURANT

Lot 4 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 235 160)

KOREAN CLUB RESTAURANT

4, Jln Aru, Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu (6016 833 5730)

LITTLE ITALY

Grd Flr Hotel Capital Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 231)

MAD BEN CAFÉ

Lot 121, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 255 073)

MAI YAI THAI ORCHID RESTAURANT

Lot 13 KK Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu (6088 234 841)

MDM ING FISH NOODLE

Lot 21 Towering Koidupan Perdana Jln Tambunan, Penampang (6016 831 8726)

NON HALAL

WAREHOUSE 32 KK

For a unique and delicious dining experience, Warehouse 32 KK in Sadong Jaya never disappoints! This Western Fusion restaurant is actually set in a warehouse lot and wonderfully decorated for a fun and vibrant atmosphere. While they serve no pork on the menu, there is a bar and alcohol on the menu. Dip into their great sides like the Mentai Fries absolutely drenched in thick Mentai Mayo or the newly launched menu that includes crowd favourites like Steak and Chimichurri Sauce. If you’re after something with an Asian twist, you’ll be singing Rice, Rice, Baby! after trying the yummy Cheese Baked Rice and Mentai Rice series which all come loaded with sauce and plenty of toppings like a soft-shell crab or juicy chicken and lamb. With all that space, it’s the perfect setting for a big party or event to celebrate every occasion.

Warehouse, Lot 32, Lorong Karamunsing, Sadong Jaya, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia IG: @warehouse32kk

NAGASAKI JAPANESE

RESTAURANT

No 19 Grd Flr Bangunan Harrison Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 216 623)

NAM CHAI RESTAURANT

BAH KUT TEH

Grd Flr, Blk D, Jln Leila, Bandar Nam Tung, 90000, Sandakan (6089 612 603)

NISHIKI JAPANESE

RESTAURANT

Lot 29, Grd Flr, Blk E, Iramanis Centre, Jln Lintas, Kota Kinabalu (6088 473 348)

OCTOBER COFFEE HOUSE

5-0 Grd Flr, Lorong Bunga Raja 9, Latitude 6 Commercial Centre, Kota Kinabalu (6014 307 2455)

ORION JAPANESE

RESTAURANT

Blk B, Grd Flr, Lot 14, Lorong Damai Point Commercial Centre, Jln Damai, Kota Kinabalu (6011 168 09012)

PASTA PASTA

77 Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu (6088 280 790)

PEPPERMINT

VIETNAMESE CUISINE

Lot 26, Blk D, 01, Karamunsing Capital, 88300 Kota Kinabalu / Jln Asia City, 88450 Kota Kinabalu (6088 231 130)

RESTORAN NEW SEA VIEW Bandar Ramai-ramai, 90000 Sandakan

RESTORAN SRI MENANTI

Pekan Sikuati, Kudat (6010 957 3959)

SAKAGURA JAPANESE

RESTAURANT

G-23 & G-25, Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6012 817 3604)

SANTOLA BAR CAFÉ

29, Jln Kilang, SEDCO Industrial Estate, Kota Kinabalu (6016 678 8472)

SENG HING RESTAURANT

Blk E, Lot 10, Sinsuran Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 21 1594)

SUANG TAIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

No. 16, Blk D, Grd Flr, SEDCO Complex, Kg Air, Kota Kinabalu (6011 261 55796)

SUPUL KOREAN BBQ RESTAURANT

Lot S-1-8, 1st Flr, City Mall (above Secret Recipe), Jln Lintas, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 844)

THE ENGLISH TEA HOUSE & RESTAURANT 2002 Jln Istana, 90000 Sandakan (6089 222 544)

TOSCANI’S

Lot 14, The Waterfront, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6012 833 3609)

THE BEAN CAFÉ

Lot 8-1, 1st Flr, Lido Plaza, Jln Nosoob, Penampang (6088 703 884)

Café with a sofa lounge serving coffee and drinks, sandwiches, toasts, waffles, and desserts

THE B SIDE

Lot 21, Grd Flr, Lido Plaza, Jln Nosoob, Penampang (6088 532 950) – Hipster café offering all-day dining and specialty coffees

WAH SAN RESTAURANT

D2-G Blk 17 Jln Pryer, Sandakan (6089 212 626)

YOSHIMI JAPANESE

RESTAURANT

Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 388)

YU KEE BAK KUT TEH

74, Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 192)

EAT (SARAWAK)

A ONE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Lrg Chew Siik Hiong 1, Sibu (6084 215 803)

ALL JOY CAFÉ

UG01A, Wisma Saberkas, Jln Tun Abang Haji Open, 93000 Kuching (6082 330 872)

APOLLO SEAFOOD CENTRE

4 South Yu Seng Road, Miri (6085 420 813)

APPLE RESTAURANT

76-79 Grd Flr, Parkcity Commercial Centre, Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi, 97000 Bintulu (6086 333 377)

AROMA CAFÉ

126 Jln Tabuan, Kuching (6013 579 t8641)

BEE HIONG

RESTAURANT CAFÉ

157G Jln Muhibbah, Lawas (6085 285 137)

BEIJING 2008

RESTAURANT SDN BHD

157 Jln Kg Nyabor, Sibu (6084 330 955)

BISMI RESTAURANT

947 Jln Parry, Sarawak (6085 416 872)

BITES BY THE BATIK

38 Jln Pandungan, Kuching (6082 422 845)

BLA BLA BLA

27, Jln Tabuan, 93000, Kuching (6082 2330944)

BLACK BEAN COFFE & TEA 87, Ewe Hai Street, 93000 Kuching (6082 420 290)

BUENAS FILIPINO

LECHON & RESTAURANT

329, Phase 4, Parkcity Commerce Square, Jin. Tun Ahmad Zaidi, Bintulu (6086 310 860)

CAFÉ CAFÉ AT ORIGINAL CARWASH

Lot 211-214, Section 9, KTLD, Rubber Rd, Kuching (6082 256 396)

CAFÉ MIN XIN

Lot 1126-27

Riam Comm Centre, Miri (6085 628 839)

CAPITAL RESTAURANT

86 Jln Keppel, Bintulu (6086 331 160)

CARVERY RESTAURANT

22, Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kuching (6082 239 449)

CASABELLA MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

Crown Square, Kuching (6082 346 612)

CHEF AT HOME

Lorong Green 1 Blk 10, Kuching (6016 858 5159)

CHUAN HONG RESTAURANT

123 Jln Council SAman (6083 322 466)

CROWN DYNASTY RESTAURANT

Wisma Perniagaan dan Perindustrian Cina, Lot 2657, Jln Tun Razak, Tanjung Batu 97000 Bintulu (6086 335 908)

CRUMB ARTISAN BAKERY & CAFE

D-G-13A Miri Times

Square,Marina ParkCity, 98000 Miri (6085 421 913)

CUPPA-KAP COFFEE

One Jaya, Jln Song, Kuching (6016 856 5533)

DA MI XIANG GU TOU BAO RESTAURANT

Tabuan Hts Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 458 952)

DYNASTY CHINESE

RESTAURANT

Oil Town Comm Complex, Miri (6085 424 000)

EARTHLINGS

COFFEE WORKSHOP

Soho East, Sublot 16 Grd Flr, Lot 188, Jln Wan Alwi Lorong 5, Kuching (6011 100 31208)

EAST COURT FOOD CENTRE

Jln Kelab, 95000 Bandar Sri Aman

ESCOBAR

Damai Craft World and Event Centre, Santubong, Kuching (6013 822 6900)

FAC BRAVO RESTAURANT

7778 Jln Sultan Iskandar, Bintulu (6086 316 920)

FARLEY BAKERY

Farley Commercial Centre, Sibu (6084 216 315)

FEAST & FURIOUS CAFÉ

244, Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman (6013 780 1541)

FISHERMAN RESTAURANT

4 Jln Chew Geok Lin, Sibu (6084 316 888)

FRATINI’S RESTAURANT

Lot 2512, Grd Flr, Blk 5, Boulevard Commercial Centre, Miri (6085 431 115)

FU XIANG FOOD COURT Rubber Road, 93400 Kuching (6019 817 0739)

GOLDEN CITY RESTAURANT

3, Lot 1653 Main Bazaar (6019 877 7683)

HOCK CHU LEU RESTAURANT

Jln Tukang Besi, 96000 Sibu (6084 316 523)

IMPERIAL RESTAURANT

Blk 7, Lot 1120, McLd Jln Sehati, 98000 Miri (6085 431 133)

IMPERIAL DUCK RESTAURANT

Bee San, Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 336 313)

JAMES BROOKE BISTRO & CAFÉ

Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching (6082 412 210)

JUBILEE RESTAURANT

49 India St, 93000 Kuching (6082 245 626)

KHAN’S ISLAMIC RESTAURANT

Lot- 229, Jln Maju, Miri (6016 577 1901)

KOREANA RESTAURANT

101, Kuching (6082 575 072)

L.L. BANANA LEAF Kuching (6016 525 6514)

LIM HOCK ANN 96, Kg Buntal Kuching (6082 846 533)

LOK THIAN RESTAURANT

2nd Flr, No. 317-319, Jln Chan Bee Kiew, Off Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 331 310)

LU LAI VEGETARIAN

Lot 3640 & 3641, Grd Flr, 3rd Mile, Jln Rock, Taman Timberland, 93206 Kuching (6010 797 6677)

LUCKY RESTAURANT No. 271, Grd Flr, Hlm Kabor, Taman Jade Manis, 98000 Miri (6014 896 5555)

MENAWAN RESTAURANT Grd Floor, Imperial Palace Hotel Lot 1120

Blk 7 Jalan Sehati MCLD 98000 MIRI (6085 432 299)

MARCO POLO RESTAURANT

Blk 31, Grd Flr, WIWO Hotel, Sublot 116-124, Lot 7668, Bintulu Sentral (6019 815 7277)

MEDAN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

56, Jln Mdn Setiaraja, Mukah (6084 874 145)

MERRY GARDEN CAFE

Lorong 1, Jln Kelab, 95000 Sri Aman (6010 983 6178)

MING XIN COFFEE HOUSE

Lot 1623, Grd Flr, Technip Building, Jln Pujut 1A, Miri (6085 628 839)

MOMOYAMA

Lot 1A & 2A, Grd Flr, Wisma Phoenix, Jln Song Thian Cheok 93100 Kuching (6082 420 561)

NEW SEA VIEW CAFE & RESTAURANT

No. 3 & 4, Grd Flr, BBC Industrial Estate, Shoplot Mile, 5, Bintulu-Miri Highway, 97000 Bintulu (6086 318 924)

NOODLE DESCENDANTS

No. 188, Grd Flr Lot 18, Section 52, Padungan Rd, Kuching

PIN PIN CAFÉ

18 Jln Ong Guan Cheng, Sarawak (6082 763 486)

POPULAR CORNER SEAFOODS RESTAURANT

50 & 51, BDA Shahida Commercial Centre, Jln Abang Galau, 97000 Bintulu (6013 807 0700)

PORTICO

Park Lane, Kuching (6012 313 8046)

ROCK ROAD SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Lot 1229-1231, Jln Batu Kinyang, Kuching (6011 105 71575)

ROCK ROAD SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

1230 Jln Rock Bt 2½ , Kuching (6082 241 575)

ROOTS & BLISS CAFE

Grd Flr, Sublot 68, Survey Lot 3569, TT3 Plaza, Tabuan Tranquility Phase 3 Stage 2, Jln Canna, Kuchin (6016 428 3889)

SALLEH’S CORNER CAFÉ

Grd Flr, Bgn Kedai, Kg Tunku (RPR II), Jln Astana, Kuching(6012 807 8733)

SEE GOOD FOOD CENTRE

53, Lot 228-229, Jln Ban Hock, 93100 Kuching (6082 232 609)

NANA DESSERT CAFE

Stop in to NANA Dessert Café at Jesselton Quay @ Gallery Shoppes to refuel and refresh thanks to the cozy, aesthetic ambience. Their famed Bingsu is a real treat to have on a hot day, especially the Injeolmi Pat Bingsu, full of yummy red bean paste which earns our Asian seal of approval for being not too sweet! Want some serious sugar? Their Macarons and bakes also come highly recommended. Of course, caffeine is the beverage of choice here. Try the unusual Pandan Coconut Latte that reminds us of an Onde-Onde dessert, or the highly rated Matcha Latte that has the good earthiness of matcha balanced against sweet steamed milk. New on their menu are filling bagels and mains like pastas for whatever your stomach craves.

1-35, First Floor, Jesselton Quay @ Gallery Shoppes, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah IG: @nanadessertcafe

SHERATON RESTAURANT

Persiaran Brooke, Sibu (6084 336 341)

SURABAYA RESTAURANT

44-62, Jln Indica, Miri / Grd Flr, Lot 288, Jln Bendahara, 98000 Miri(6075 105 871)

SUSHI KING

Lot Restaurant 5, Grd Flr, Jln Spg Tiga, 93350 Kuching (6082 245 355)

SUSHI TIE

24, Lorong Chiew Siik Hiong 1A, Fortune Commercial Centre, Sibu (6016 828 1228)

TEDUH SEDJENAK

Pop-Up Cafe @ Kuching Community Social Support Centre, Wisma Ho Ho Lim, 291, Jln Abell, 93100 Kuching (6012 443 2143)

TEN-ICHI

JAPANESE RESTAURANT

315-319, Bgn Bee San, Jln Padungan, Kuching (6014 699 2960)

TEO SEAFOOD

787, Jln Kg Buntal, Kuching (6082 846 532)

THE JUNK

80, Jln Wayang, Kuching (6016 889 2044)

TOM’S RESTAURANT

160, Jln Padungan, Kuching (6016 889 9137)

TREMENDOUS CAFE

SARAWAK

Lot 3550, Grd Flr, Al-Bayt Square, 98000 Miri (6010 549 7362)

TRIBAL TASTE

No. 10, 1st Flr, Blk H, Jln Borneo, Taman Sri Sarawak, Kuching (6016 889 9165)

WANG HIN RESTAURANT

1st Flr, Soon Hup Commercial Complex, No. 1, Jln Merbau, 98000 Miri (6085 413 678)

WARUNG

NASI KUNING

Blk 16, Grd Flr, Lot 10520, Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6082 451 685)

XIN TSUI SIANG KITCHEN

SDN. BHD.

Grd Flr, Pardels A-1-16 & 17, Jln Petanak, 93100 Kuching (6082 414 616)

YOFFEE CAFE

Shoplot No. 3, Meditel Lot 133 & 157, Section 21, KTLD, Jln Tun Abang Haji Openg, Kuching (6011 168 44628)

ZHUN SAN YEN

VEGETARIAN

Grd Flr, Lot 165, Jln Chan Chin Ann, 93100 Kuching (6016 868 7000)

@nanadessertcafe

BRUNEI BANK S

Banks in Brunei Darussalam are usually open Mondays to Fridays, 9am - 4pm and on Saturdays, 9am11am. Some banks have branches with later closing times. Islamic banks follow the same operation hours except on Fridays when they are closed for prayers between 11am - 2.30pm. Cash withdrawals and deposits can be made from Automated Teller Machines (ATM) that can be found in various shopping complexes and bank branches all over the country. ATM cards affiliated with the international Plus or Cirrus systems are accepted at most ATMs.

CREDIT CARDS

VISA and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards in hotels, restaurants and major shopping complexes.

Some establishments accept American Express.

Money Changer

$Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, hotels, various shopping complexes and banks. To cash or exchange travelers cheques, visit major international banks in the capital.

FRIDAY PR AYER TIME

All retail, food and beverage outlets and business offices are closed between 12 noon and 2pm on Fridays to observe the Friday prayer time for Muslims.

Islamic Etiquette

Although Islam is the state religion of Brunei Darussalam, it is also a country that prides itself on the diversity of its people – including their religions. Visitors are welcome to mosques, provided some etiquette is followed. In general, proper attire is required; women are required to cover their head, shoulders, and knees. Some mosques will provide simple robes and shawls to meet these standards. Shoes are to be removed before entering a mosque. Please do not pass in front of people in prayer, and do not touch the Al-Quran. Please ask for permission before taking photographs – particularly inside! Mosques are usually closed on Thursday and Friday, and during prayer times – your hotel, tour guide, or Muslim locals can help you determine a good time to visit.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in both air-conditioned and non airconditioned areas in Brunei Darussalam. Smoking is banned in specific places, including government buildings, hospitals, recreational and educational centres, public transport and restaurants. Offenders could be fined.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Most public phones operate on prepaid calling cards which can be obtained in all major shopping areas and retail stores. Mobile prepaid SIM cards are also available for purchase at DST Communications Sdn Bhd (DST Com), Imagine Sdn Bhd, and Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB) service counters as well as the respective authorised vendors’ stores.

Taxis

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE

Located at the Art Gallery at the Royal Wharf. Visitors can obtain information about Brunei and related pamphlets and maps free from here during working hours (Mon-Thurs & Sat from 9am-12.15pm & 1.30pm4.30pm).

Metered taxis can be found at the airport, hotels, shopping centres, and the central bus station in Bandar Seri Begawan. Alternatively, grab a Dart Taxi using the ‘Dart’ app - a taxi booking application that can be downloaded at the App Store and Google Play.

BUSES

There are six bus routes servicing the BSB area. Normal operating hours are from 6am-8pm. Bus fares start from B$1.00. Buses heading to other towns in Brunei such as Tutong, Kuala Belait and Seria depart from the bus terminal located at the multistorey carpark on Jalan Cator in BSB.

WATER TAXIS

Unique to Brunei, the water taxi is the most common means of transportation in Kampong Ayer. You can hail a water taxi from the numerous jetties along the banks of Brunei River. Fares are negotiable but usually a standard ride costs about B$1.00. Regular boat services to Temburong operate between 6am-4.30pm daily and a one way trip costs B$7.00.

FERRY SERVICES

Passenger ferry services to the Malaysian island of Labuan operate from 7am to 4pm and departs from the Serasa Terminal in Muara town. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

KALIMANTAN

Banks

In Pontianak, banks open from 8am to 3pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.

CREDIT CARDS

While major credit cards such as Mastercard, Visa and American Express are accepted in establishments in the bigger cities, it is advisable to carry cash in small denominations especially around remote areas.

$Money Changer

Licensed money changers can be found in most cities and major banks.

www.wamadesigns.com @wama_designs

AIR TRAVEL

The Supadio International Airport is the main airport of Pontianak and West Kalimantan, and is located 17km away from the city limits. The airport serves direct domestic flights to other cities in Indonesia, and is also the terminal for international flight carrier AirAsia.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

It is possible to make IDD phone calls at payphones using coins or call cards. You can also register for a SIM card at most telecommunications shops or at the airport. Most major hotels have WIFI in guest rooms or public areas, and an increasing number of restaurants also have WIFI zones.

Taxis

Taxis can be found at the international airport, shopping malls and other public places.

Ferry Services

The Pontianak Crossing Port allows ferry connection to other cities in Indonesia such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan and Batam.

TOURIST INFORMATION

more information, visit: www.indonesia.travel/gb/en/destinations/kalimantan

Unit 2 & 3, First Floor, Wisma LCY Gadong, Spg. 92, Jln. Gadong, Kg. Pengkalan Gadong, Mukim Gadong B Bandar Seri Begawan, BE 3719, Brunei Darussalam

SABAH

Bank s

Banks open from 9am to 4pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.

CREDIT CARDS

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards at hotels, restaurants and major shopping malls. Some establishments do accept American Express.

Money Changer

$

Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, shopping malls, hotels and major banks.

SARAWAK

Banks

Banks open from 9.30am to 3pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.

CREDIT CARDS

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards at hotels, restaurants and major shopping malls. Some establishments do accept American Express.

$

Buses

There are three main bus terminals that operate regular services. The terminal along Jalan Tun Razak provides services within the city and its outskirts. For destinations south of the city (Papar, Beaufort, Tenom, Tambunan, Keningau), use the terminal near Padang Merdeka. For any other destinations north of the city and all the way to the east coast towns of Sandakan, Tawau, Lahad Datu and Semporna, you have to take a bus to the Kota Kinabalu North Bus Terminal in Inanam and from there proceed to your destination of choice. Kinabalu Park is located en route from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan.

AIR TRAVEL

Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) is the second busiest airport in Malaysia and is the main terminal for Malaysia Airlines, MASWings, Firefly, Royal Brunei Airlines, Dragonair, Silkair and Asiana Airlines.

Buses

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

It is possible to make IDD phone calls at payphones using coins or call cards. Prepaid calling cards are also widely available by authorized dealers at shopping malls. Most major hotels have WIFI facility either in their guest rooms or public areas. An increasing number of restaurants now have WIFI zones too. Cybercafés offer very affordable rates for internet services.

Taxis

Taxis are available at the airport terminal and cost about RM30.00 to get to the city. The journey takes between 10-15 minutes. Within the city, taxi stations are located next to major shopping malls and hotels. Long distance taxi services can be found next to Padang Merdeka.

A free city-tram service is available for sightseeing around Kuching with pick up points at designated hotels. A daily bus service between Kuching and the airport operates from 6am-7pm and takes 40 minutes. The main intercity bus terminal is at Penrissen Bus Terminal southeast of Kuching. Ask Tourism Information Centres for bus timetables; a ‘green bus’ in the Kuching area goes to Santubong (SCV).

AIR TRAVEL

Kuching International Airport services airlines to destinations within Malaysia and overseas via Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia, Firefly, Tiger Airways, Royal Brunei, Silk Air and Batavia Air (Pontianak, Kalimantan).

A network of services using smaller aircrafts provides access to remote destinations within Sarawak such as Bario, Mulu and Ba Kelalan.

Money Changer

Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, shopping malls, hotels and major banks. Some money changers may not accept foreign currency in small denomination or notes with a date or serial number that they don’t approve of.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

It is possible to make IDD phone calls at payphones using coins or call cards. Prepaid calling cards are also widely available by authorized dealers at shopping malls. Most major hotels have WIFI facility either in their guest rooms or public areas. An increasing number of restaurants now have WIFI zones too. Cybercafés offer very affordable rates for internet services.

Taxis

Taxi fare from Kuching airport to the city cost about RM22.00 per way. Taxies are easily found at large hotels, or at taxi stands in all the major towns in Sarawak. Taxis don’t use meters so always negotiate the fare before getting into a cab!

Sabah Tourism Board Jalan Gaya

Tel: (6088) 212 121

Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sinsuran Complex

Tel: (6088) 232 121

Tourism Malaysia (Sabah)

Api Api Centre

Tel: (6088) 211 732

Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 1

Tel: (6088) 413 359

Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 2

Tel: (6088) 447 075

Ferry Services

Jesselton Point is the main terminal for boats to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands and to Labuan Island. If you wish to drive to Labuan, use the ferry terminal at Menumbok south of the city where car ferries are available.

Express Boats and Ferry Services

A boat service locally known as tambang is available for the short trip across Kuching River to the riverside villages on the other side and along the river for sightseeing. Fast and comfortable express boats connect coastal towns (Kuching, Sibu, Kapit) and villages on the major rivers in Sarawak. The Express Ferry Terminal in Kuching offers trips to Sibu and onwards to Kapit for upriver journeys. Take a bus from Sibu to Miri for ferries to Brunei and onwards to Labuan island and Kota Kinabalu.

Tourist Information Centre

Kuching Visitors’ Information Centre

Tel: (6082) 410 944/2

Miri Visitors’ Information Centre

Tel: (6085) 434 181

Sibu Visitors’ Information Centre

Tel: (6084) 340 980

Tourist Information Centre

Tis’ The Season To Be Together

Kongsi Raya (2022)

Starring

Wilson Lee, Qasrina Karim, Harith Iskander

Directed by Teddy Chin

A lighthearted rom-com all about acceptance and of course delicious food, Kongsi Raya strikes a chord for its fun and fearless acting from a great cast that includes the legendary Malaysian funnyman Harith Iskandar. Featuring three languages (Malay, Cantonese and English), it’s a feel-good film that will probably also make you very hungry! The story of an interracial Malaysian couple and the antics that ensue as they reveal their relationship to their families is certainly relatable to many and brings a comic touch to what can sometimes be a touchy subject. The bright colored kueh in this movie certainly make us look forward to satisfying our cravings at the next open house!

Syif Malam Raya (2020)

Starring

Atu Zero, Sharif Zero, Syaiful Zero, Reen Rahim

Directed by A. Razak Mohaideen

Forced to work on the eve of Raya, Zaid and Hisyam must transport a dead body back to Ipoh by car, taking on Mera and Yoh, who are heading back to their hometown for the celebrations. The action starts when they reach a village that is supposedly haunted by a 'pocong', known as a shroud ghost. Lots of laughs and scares in this horror-comedy with some hair-raising surprises! Members of Malaysian group, Zero, feature prominently in this film.

Showtime 1958 (2021)

Starring

Amai Kamaruddin, Shah Iskandar, Bell Ngasri, Yna Rose Noah, Wan Nur Afiyah Wan Azli, Irfan Zaini

Directed by Anwardi Jamil

If you’ve ever found yourself humming to the iconic “Selamat Hari Raya” song by Malaysian songstress Saloma, you’ll want to watch this film. Based on the true events that led P. Ramlee to organise a variety show in aid of his newly unemployed peers, Showtime 1858 reveals the heartwarming story of a community that came together in a time of need, and the making of a new star amidst P. Ramlee and Saloma’s fateful connection.

With Hari Raya Aidilfitri just sense to get in the festive state Spotify or not-so-great karaoke what about movies? We’ve rounded that will give you all the nostalgia of celebrating gratitude and feet and relax before going for rendang

Prebet Sapu (2020)

Starring

Amerul Affendi, Lim Mei Fen, Bront Palarae, Sharifah Amani

Directed by Muzzamer Rahman

just around the corner, it makes state of mind with Raya playlists on karaoke renditions off of Youtube but rounded up some great choices nostalgia feels for the Muslim season forgiveness, so kick up your for rounds two and three of your rendang fix!

Set in 2018, this Malay-language film revolves around the tale of colourblind Aman who drives his beat up inherited car from Pahang to Kuala Lumpur in search of a better life after, and Bella, an escort who gives him a place to stay in exchange for his services. Uniquely shot entirely in black and white, it is a feat of Malaysian cinematography and storytelling that gives us much to ponder about from the unlikely friendship between two isolated souls.

Raya Tak Jadi (2011)

Starring

Saiful Apek, Johan Raja Lawak, Jalaluddin Hassan, Ledil Dzuhrie Alaudin

Directed by A. Razak Mohaideen

Get ready for some side-splitting laughs with this film about a Raya that almost didn’t happen; brothers Shuib and Bob (who is deaf), get tangled up in an unwitting plot to delay the start of Hari Raya by a businessman who is about to lose big on his late import of fruit dates for the fasting month. Finding a mystery man unconscious in the boot of their taxi, hilarity ensues as the pair unravel things behind the failed kidnapping.

The Legend of Hang Tuah (1956)

Starring

P. Ramlee, Ahmad Mahmud, Saadiah, Zaiton, Haji Mahadi, Daeng Idris, Yusof Latiff

Directed by Phani Majumdar

This classic historical drama featuring the late great P. Ramlee is a twisting tale based on the legendary Admiral Hang Tuah of Malacca and his four sworn brothers; Hang Jebat, Hang Kasturi, Hang Lekir and Hang Lekiu. This film received the award for 'Best Musical Score' at the 3rd Asian Film Festival in Hong Kong in 1956 and an official screening at 7th Berlin International Film Festival in 1957, where it was nominated for the Golden Bear. It also holds the distinction for being the first Malay film to be fully shot on Eastman Colour Film, a massive feat at the time.

MOVIES TO LOOK OUT FOR THIS QUARTER

THE MINISTRY OF UNGENTLEMANLY WARFARE

Starring Henry Cavill, Eiza González, Alex Pettyfer, Henry Golding

Billed as a true story about a secret British World War II organisation; the Special Operations Executive. Founded by Winston Churchill, their irregular warfare against the Nazis helped to change the course of the war, and gave birth to modern black operations.

THE CHALLENGERS

Starring Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, Mike Faist, Jake Jensen

Tennis player turned coach Tashi has taken her husband, Art, and transformed him into a worldfamous grand slam champion. To jolt him out of his recent losing streak, she makes him play a “Challenger” event – close to the lowest level of pro tournament – where he finds himself standing across the net from his former best friend and Tashi’s former boyfriend.

INSIDE OUT 2

Starring Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Tony Hale, Liza Lapira

Riley turns 13 and Headquarters undergoes a sudden demolition to make room for new emotions, something Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust weren’t prepared for. The first new emotion they meet is Anxiety, who carries a lot of emotional baggage — literally.

THE GARFIELD MOVIE

Starring Chris Pratt, Samuel L. Jackson, Nicholas Hoult, Harvey Guillén

Garfield is about to go on a wild outdoor adventure. After an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father – the cat Vic – Garfield and Odie are forced to abandon their pampered life to join Vic in a hilarious, high-stakes heist.

MONKEY MAN

Starring Dev Patel, Sharlto Copley, Sobhita Dhulipala, Pitobash

Inspired by the legend of Hanuman, a young man lives in an underground fight club where he is brutally beaten by other fighters for cash. After years of suppressed rage, he discovers a way to infiltrate the enclave of the city’s sinister elite. His scarred hands trigger a retribution campaign to settle the score with the men who took everything from him.

BACK TO BLACK

Starring Marisa Abela, Jack O’Connell, Lesley Manville, Eddie Marsan

A glimpse into Amy Winehouse’s early rise to fame and the release of her ground breaking studio album, Back to Black. Told from Amy’s perspective, the film is an unapologetic look at the woman behind the phenomenon and the relationship that inspired one of the most legendary albums of all time.

THE WATCHERS

Starring Datoka Fanning, Olwen Fouréré, Siobhan Hewlett, Alistair Brammer

A young artist gets stranded in an extensive, immaculate forest in western Ireland, where, after finding shelter, she becomes trapped alongside three strangers, stalked by mysterious creatures each night.

FURIOSA: A MAD MAX SAGA

Starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth, Charlee Fraser, Tom Burke

As the world fell, young Furiosa is snatched from the Green Place of Many Mothers and falls into the hands of a great Biker Horde led by the Warloard Dementus. Sweeping through the Wasteland, they come across the Citadel presided over by The Immortan Joe. While the two Tyrants war for dominance, Furiosa must survive many trials as she puts together the means to find her way home.