BiG JULY-SEPT 2020

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Editor’s Note

@b.i.g.magazine BIG: Borneo Insider’s Guide @bigborneo Publisher

CHMP MEDIA Perhaps it’s fitting that we focus on dreamscapes this issue, a theme more appropriate nearing year’s end when people are planning vacations. But as we all know, 2020 isn’t like any other year, and for us at BiG, we decided to take a step away from reality and instead focus on some dreams.

We had a lovely escape – in our dreams. We went all around Borneo and thought up a great itinerary for every kind of traveller looking to explore this wonderful island, from the Luxury Traveller to the Urbanist. One day, whether it’s in the near or distant future, the pandemic will clear, and this itinerary will hopefully become useful to our readers when that time comes.

We also set our sights on Re/Act Impak and talk to Shirley Sikun about connecting social enterprises around Borneo. There has been some focus on Kalimantan this year with talks about moving the Indonesian capital to South Borneo, and we decide to highlight some great places to visit here.

Pre-COVID 19 Wan Zainal took an envy-worthy trip to the Maldives for a crystal blue getaway, and now that he’s stuck in one spot like the rest of us, he also penned down what he got up to during lockdown, along with the rest of the BiG team.

This truly has been a lovely escape for us, but the pandemic continues to wreak havoc across the globe. On behalf of the BiG team, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our nation’s leaders and our frontliners for doing an amazing job in keeping us safe and healthy, and helping us adapt to this temporary new normal of living.

And a footnote, if I may. The world was rocked by three words, and a global stand against racism was formed. Even in our little corner of the world, it’s clearly time to take a stand for our brothers and sisters. Face your privilege, take a good look at the power imbalances in your community, learn about how you can use your position to put an end to prejudices, and teach others to do the same. Because frankly, we can all be better than this.

Editor-At-Large

Wan Zainal Shazali Editor

Intan Abu Daniel Assistant Editor

Sheyenne Siah Designer

Afiq Khairudin Assistant Designer

Aqilah Hj Abu Bakar Marketing Manager

Adriane Jaafar Editorial

Nova Renata Irene Chan Dian Idris Brunei | biG contact@borneoinsidersguide.com T: (673) 2331031 F: (673) 2231031 Unit 49, Second Floor Haji Munchit & Hajah Dayang Rapiah Complex Kg Jaya Setia, Berakas, BB2713 Brunei Darussalam

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various writers in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of biG Magazine.

Borneo Insider’s Guide magazines are distributed to:

You can also find Borneo Insider’s Guide magazines at the Brunei International Airport

BiG Getaway Near or far, we go on holiday for your benefit

BiG Scoop

10

32 Maldivian Castaway

contents

BiG Appetite We try the food so you can follow suit 34 Cooking during COVID-19 36 Brunei Restaurant Reviews 38 Sarawak & Sabah Restaurant Reviews

BiG Trail

28

40 BiG Listings 48 BiG Essentials 52 BiG Maps BiG Screen See what’s playing on television and cinema screens around town BiG SPECIAL 6 On Lockdown with the BiG Team BiG SCOOP Things we want, seen and heard this quarter 10 Brunei & Sarawak 12 Adventure, Passion and Living the Dream with Secret Signal 13 Sabah

54 Movies with a View 56 Movies to Look Out for this Quarter BiG appetite

36

BiG Trail Discover what’s on the island

28 Best Places to Visit in Kalimantan

BiG Feature Shining a spotlight on Borneo

BiG Focus Read about who’s got our focus this quarter

15 Dream Holidays around Borneo

30 Realising dreams with Re/Act Impak

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

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

BiG Feature

15

#BersamaMuBrunei Let’s play our part to keep our country safe and healthy

RB Repatriation Flights

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RB Voluntary & Commun

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biG feature

WAN ZAINAL

special

On Lockdown with

THE BiG TEAM

Thinking back to our first days in lockdown, from the initial excitement of letting our inner introvert free to the gradual boredom and restlessness that set in, we had to look back and wonder – what exactly did we accomplish during that time? From adapting to a new way of keeping fit to reading a heck of a lot and from baking with your sisters to learning to appreciate what you have, we learned that we managed to expand some of our horizons during the time when Borneo was on pause - some of us with new skill sets and some of us emotionally.

Here’s what the BiG team got up to during the time of COVID-19.

26 Borneo.Insider’s.Guide Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

July is usually the time of year when we visit our favourite holiday destinations, and the most memorable part of these holidays would always be eating my way through each destination, savouring local flavours and constantly telling myself to recreate these delicious meals when I’m back home.

Sadly, 2020 has rewritten our holiday plans, and I found myself with more time on my hands to improve my cooking skills and do what I’ve always wanted: bring my food holiday memories to the table.

I engaged in pleasurable cooking battles with IG foodie friends across the globe. I explored cooking Malay meals – a cuisine I’ve always been daunted by – and have since conquered my fear of cooking assam pedas, chicken curry and Nasi Lemak with all the trimmings. One weekend, together with friends from Singapore and London, we explored the rich dishes from the Indian subcontinent when we prepared a threecourse meal comprising dhal, slow roasted vegetable masala and grilled beef tikka complete with homemade roti which we all made from scratch! I also learned the difference between gulai, kalio and rendang, by experimenting with the traditional Minang recipe for rendang.

And of course, no holiday food is as joyful as the simple pasta dishes from Italy. From Orecchiette limone e tonno from Puglia to Venetian Anchovy Spaghetti and Trofie con Pesto from Liguria to Roman Cacio e Peppe; I made them all. I literally ate my way around the world without leaving my doorstep!

AQILAH

INTAN During the COVID-19 lockdown, I hitchhiked across the galaxy.

I got emotional in The Ministry of Utmost Happiness. I enjoyed the familiarity in a different corner of the Cosmere Universe. I followed a young mage in his journey around Earthsea. And I learned about the true meaning of monsters with Geralt of Rivia.

At the unhappy news of Albert Uderzo’s death, I paid my old friend Asterix a visit. I went back to Thornfield with Jane. I re-visited 1920’s Paris with a broke writer named Hemingway. And I hung out with Aziraphale and Crowley and laughed at their attempts to take down Armageddon.

And in between, I traversed rocky romances with Penny Reid’s women who knit, cheered for Chloe Brown in her mission to get a life, and explored a dystopian landscape with Kate Daniels.

I spent quality time with my family. I cooked a lot. I did some reorganising. I performed my day job in my living room. And I did what I love to do, and rarely have time for on a normal day: I journeyed around the universe with some new and old friends – all from the comfort of my home.

With the limitation of social activities during the pandemic, I got to spend quality time with family.

It was an opportunity to help my mom out in the kitchen more and at the same time, upgrade my cooking skills. My attempts at simple recipes like Shell Out and Carbonara pasta motivated me into trying out other dishes, and crossing out some of the ones I was craving from the list.

My sisters and I took the step from cooking to baking, and decided to tackle our baking wish list that we’ve never had time for, as baking is something that takes a lot of love and patience. We struggled with the pavlova but enjoyed making chocolate cookies, mango cheesecake and cinnamon rolls. We didn’t let our failures get us down, rather it entertained us and we just kept on trying until we succeeded. And obviously, we made sure to exercise pretty consistently - since we had all that food to eat!

IRENE

AJ During the lockdown, like most people, I upped my cooking and baking skills as eating out and takeaway was, at some point, not even an option at all. Stress baking became a therapeutic outlet and reignited my passion to perfect some recipes.

My most popular one by far would be my Apple Crumble.

There was plenty my introvert self was excited about doing, like exercising (only happened thrice), organising the house Marie Kondo style (yet to happen) and gardening (I accepted the fact that I don’t have green fingers).

But the skill I was able to perfect was strategically planning ahead to ensure our pantry was well stocked and a good meal plan. Grocery shopping turned into a weekly mission for the hubs and I to get in, get the goods and get out. We even had the shopping list done according to the layout of the supermarket!

Work-wise, the BiG team realised that this was a time to help our local businesses, and we came up with the Go BiG & Stay Home activities.

We churned out cooking videos by Radisson Hotel and Tasconi’s Pizza, organised a Baju Raya Design competition with Firoz Jaya, published an exercise video by Peak Performance and produced a video on house decorating tips

by WaMa Designs.

Check it out on @b.i.g.magazine if you missed it!

SHEYENNE In a time when emotions of fear and worry ran rampant throughout the world, a survival instinct to self-care and love prevailed. Homebodies and extroverts alike were all forced to retreat to our caves and safe havens and it was here in the silence that we all thought, now what?

Stuck at home with a paranoid streak running far and deep within me, I chose to use the time to nourish my soul. From taking tranquil mid-day dips in the pool and reading books I thought I’d never get around to reading, to taking idyllic daytime drives on empty roads, there was never a shortage of things to do.

A silver lining through and through, I guiltily savoured the flipside of the pandemic where I felt my parents unclenching in the break from the rigorous daily routine of hard work and relentless school runs and enjoying the feeling of seeing my younger siblings just be kids again. It was also a time where I said a silent prayer for those who didn’t have the comfort of a home to return to, whereas I came to fully understand that home really is where the heart is.

In the early weeks of the global pandemic, I thought social distancing sounded ideal for an introvert: I would have a good reason to avoid socialising. I didn’t realise that it would eventually start feeling so… lonely.

During this time, keeping a bullet journal helped me pull through the days. I kept it simple at first by just writing down tasks – both for work and personal life. This helped me break the seemingly endless days into manageable blocks that weren’t overwhelming.

The long hours alone weighed heavily on my mental health, but then I found a box of colour pencils and I got back into creating art. In isolation, writing my thoughts down were therapeutic. Even when I woke up in despair, the journal kept me grounded and let me track the small, positive changes in my life. I was pleasantly surprised when I started writing creatively again.

The Coronavirus brought on unprecedented changes to the world. The “new normal” still feels strange. But I’m grateful that in a time that the world seemingly ground to a halt, I found the space to create again, and the strength to find beauty in these challenging times.

NOVA I’ve never been someone who enjoyed cooking and for many years, I’ve indulged in the joys of takeouts and food deliveries (all thanks to the wonders of Food Panda and GrabFood!). And for many years, I hadn’t needed to worry about the calories as I have always been reasonably active, clocking up a 30-50km running distance weekly.

When COVID-19 swept the nation, all that had to change. I was quick to realise that, without a proper channel to burn off the extra energy consumed, I was quickly piling up the pounds. There was only one thing to do, so I decided to start cooking my own healthy meals and signed up for online fitness coaching.

I suppose what the COVID-19 lockdown has taught me is that, in order to survive, one has no choice but to adapt to a new normal. For me, the new normal - in addition to always washing my hands and wearing a mask - is to find another method to keep fit and healthy, if one favoured method is unavailable. I’m learning to love my own healthy cooking too. I haven’t accidentally poisoned myself thus far, so that’s a good start.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

7

advertorial

EVERYTHING AT YOUR FINGERTIPS WITH THE

MYDST APP arlier this year, DST officially Emobile launched their very own app called the MyDST

app, which was introduced for the convenience of DST subscribers in managing all their DST accounts - Easi, Mobi, Freedom and Infinity - within one easy-to-use app.

The app provides an all-inone access for subscribers to have all their accounts within reach of their fingertips. Both postpaid and prepaid services will have their own key features which will help each subscriber to access their accounts much more easily.

Mobi, Freedom and Infinity subscribers are able to check their current and previous bill statements, pay their monthly bills directly using their debit or credit card, keep track of their bundled package balance, subscribe to an add-on data package and also monitor their add-on data balance and usage. There’s even a ‘Pay for a Friend’ feature which allows the subscribers to pay for their

family and friends.

Easi subscribers are able to monitor and check their credit and bonus credit balance, purchase and recharge their credit and bonus credit balance using their debit/credit card or an Easi recharge card, transfer credit to other Easi subscribers, purchase and subscribe to add-on data packages and also keep track of their add-on data balance and usage. Easi subscribers can also purchase the newly released $25 Easi recharge denomination, which is only available on the MyDST app.

Another incredibly convenient feature on the MyDST app is the linking of multiple DST services and numbers in one MyDST account. With this feature, it will make it much easier for subscribers who have more than one service or number with DST to manage their accounts.

The MyDST app is available on the App Store for IOS users and Google Play Store for Android users.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

9

Staying In The (Recycling) Loop

scoop

The Orchard’s Cookbook MINDFUL MOVES

Inclusivity, safety and feminine liberation are the main themes that sit at the helm of brand new dance space, NARI. Led by women, for women, Nari brings joy by providing a safe, judgment-free space for female dancers of all calibres to channel their energies and express themselves through dance. Positive vibes abound, the dance space aims to inspire and empower through curated workshops where mindful classes and choreographies in Heels (Floorwork), Oriental Dance, Tahitian Dance and Zumba are held. In line with their beliefs of creating a supportive and feel-good space, no cameras or photography are allowed to uphold the privacy of customers and instructors. So let your movements speak for themselves, let your energies flow and get your nari on.

•••••• Tel: 673-8873286/ 8236666 IG: @naribn Email: dancewithnari@gmail.com

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Fond memories of a kampong childhood and helping out in the traditional kitchen translates into yet another award-winning cookbook published by Siti Kaprawi. Inspired by her mother’s usage of local flowers as a common cooking ingredient, Flowers and Fruits in Cooking was impressively awarded the World Gourmand Cookbook Awards 2020 as the number one cookbook published in Asia.

A compilation of 80 recipes from chefs and home cooks in Brunei and abroad, the dishes feature homegrown ingredients which are familiar and close to the heart for local foodies with a penchant for experimenting. Dishes such as Watermelon Curry, Jackfruit Biryani and Kembayau Chocolate Tarts celebrate innovation in the kitchen, while learning cooks can also enjoy making classic recipes such as Asam Fish with Pineapple and Spiced Carrot Cake. A celebration of flavours, colours and textures, Flowers and Fruits in Cooking is a joyful ode to the vibrant gifts of Bornean nature in the world of Asian culinary.

•••••• Flowers & Fruits in Cooking was edited by Siti Kaprawi and Dr Shahrim Karim. Published by Astera Consultant, this award-winning cookbook can be found at Nolly Book and Best Eastern bookstores across Brunei. The book is also available for purchase online at www.amazon.com.

EnEvo (“Environmental Evolution”) has been fighting the good fight since 2016 to tackle waste issues in Brunei by being the first ever locallyowned recycling company to convert used papers into toilet rolls. Calling for a sustainable reformation within the public to practice eco-friendly closedloop recycling by donating waste papers be it books, office papers or even old textbooks, just say the word and EnEvo’s trusty drivers will show up on location for collection. Conveniently saving the world (and playing a hand in increasing Brunei’s recycling rate to 30% by 2035) from our very own doorsteps?

Talk about taking your ROLL seriously!

•••••• Tel: 673-4220838 IG: @enevo_bn FB: @enevobn Email: sustain.enevo@gmail.com

WEAR YOUR HEART ON YOUR LIPS For most of us, just combined with finding the right nourishing natural lipstick shade can oils, Evee.Co’s leave us feeling lipsticks, available elated for the rest of in a satin and matte the day. But Evee. finish, are safe to Co takes our love use for everyone for lipsticks one step including pregnant further by providing women. Keeping lipstick wearers up with the brand’s the fun option of belief of exuding customising our very class and aesthetic, own lipsticks from each line of lipsticks the shade and the (we’re particularly packaging, down to enamoured by the the pattern on the intricate Oriental lipstick mould itself. collection!) come in With a moisturising a sleek tube—and an formula of beeswax equally sleek finish.

•••••• Tel: 6011-23865521 IG: @evee.co Email: evee.tyh@gmail.com

Dried and Delicate Florals Fresh blooms are all well and good but Laven Lab Florist wants us to know that there is also an understated beauty in their dried counterparts - and not just in a bowl of potpourri. But beauty isn’t all that dried flowers have to offer—they’re also refreshingly low maintenance and longlasting (around 2-3 years).

Aside from dainty bouquet offerings of baby’s breath, downy bunnytails and other exquisite florals, Laven Lab Florist also offers mini bottled flowers ornately assembled by hand for customers who prefer their dried flowers preserved delicately. Ready with recommendations, they are also open to custom orders from all over Malaysia.

•••••• Tel: 6014-6824888 IG: @lavenlab.florist.miri FB: Laven Lab Miri

biG scoop

W

Intan Abu Daniel

Adventure, Passion & Living the Dream with

Secret Signal

hen I first had the pleasure of seeing Secret Signal perform, it was in a dark space crammed full of people, with a small space at the front reserved for the different bands that performed that evening. It was a little bit seedy, felt a little bit rebellious, very much like a wellknown underground secret, and for that it was perfect.

Music was performed by bands whose members ranged in age groups from Gen X to Z (the same could be said of the audience), and by the time Secret Signal took to the stage, everyone was already energetic from a nightlong head-banging frenzy. There was a flurry of excitement; Secret Signal have their fans, and they are a boisterous lot. The band bantered with each other, spoke like they were hanging out in their garage rather than standing in front of a frothing audience on a music-high.

The guys were funny, charming, and edgy but relatable cool.

They are, in fact, the perfect poster band for their genre. They profess themselves Melodic Pop Punk; an interesting genre that is a somewhat contradictory meld of hardcore underground and mainstream pop, which tends to lean toward either direction: relatable or rebellious. Look at their rock-loving fans, head bang along to their rhythm, whistle to their lyrics, and you’ll quickly learn that Secret Signal is a little bit of both.

The band has cited similar influences on their music, ranging from punk to heavier pop punk bands such as Neck Deep, New Found Glory, Blink 182, Sum 41, Simple Plan and Green Day. “We all grew up within the punk community and music, so it only feels right to play what we really love,” Bryant explains.

While catching Secret Signal perform in Brunei is a rare treat, for the past three years, you would have had a better chance of catching them outside of the Sultanate. Secret Signal has been

Get updates from Secret Signal by following them on:

IG: @secretsignalbn FB: Secretsignalbn Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/survivingmonday/sets/secret-signal-single Email: ozozodoes@gmail.com 12

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

aggressive in the promotion of their band by touring around Asia. They’ve been on stage in Malaysia multiple times, from Sarawak to Sabah and Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru, performed in Singapore twice, completed a Central Java tour (which had them performing in five states in one week), Vietnam, Bangkok and Taiwan.

“We’ve played with many bands and headlined many home-grown festivals in their respected countries,” Bryant said of their touring experience, vast for a band from Brunei. “But the highlight of the band’s career has been to tour with one of our favourite bands, Tiny Moving Parts, on the Southeast Asian leg of their Asia tour.”

The band began as a passion project which became, as Bryant quotes, “One of the coolest decisions made.” They started off with two (Wady and Putera, guitarists), which became three (Bryant, bass guitarist), and months later then became four (Jiji, drummer). They released their first EP ‘Punk Kid Movement’ back in 2017.

Song-writing, for the band, is admittedly quick, starting with making the music and then building the message on top of their tunes, striving to keep the song melodic with a singalong quality.

Unfortunately a debut album, while in the works, won’t be released until 2021, its delay caused by the pandemic. And that’s not the only thing that has the band hitting pause: touring inevitably had to end. A difficult situation for most bands, Bryant explains, as touring is the only form of income they make.

However, they are planning on dropping two singles off their debut album at the end of the year, and once the pandemic is clear, they’re planning to release the album and make plans to go on more tours and continue doing what they love: performing.

“We’re doing this for the love of music and the passion of adventure,” Bryant says. “Life isn’t all about getting paid. It’s about living life to the fullest and experiencing the real thrill in having an adventure and in always pushing your limits.”

biG scoop

Soap Your Worries Away

Cultured Beads

“The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree” which is the case with Cecalia Sincher Misak and her late grandmother’s legacy of intricate and fine beadwork. Noticing that her native Dayak Lundayeh tribe did not have their own ethnic earrings and would often match their traditional accessories with beaded earrings from other tribes, Cecalia started Sincher Beads Collection creating earrings to match the colors of their native beret and fata, interwoven with the tribe’s symbolic motifs. “The idea is to have the wearer look stunning and elegant while representing our tribe’s identity during any traditional event.” Being self-taught, Cecalia wanted her beadwork to tell a story as she intertwined imaginative, modern concepts with a distinct Bornean touch portraying her own roots. Unique accessories with a rich, cultural background?

Yes please!

•••••• IG: @sincherbeadscollection W: shopee.com.my/ sinchermisak Tel: 6011-14151622

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

IT’S A REAL (ATAS) VIBE Here at BiG, we stan our local creatives—especially when they’re as cool as Sabahan visual artist Jordan Wong. His creative brand A_TAS is an open book when it comes to laying out his signature funky style, reeling you into a world bathed in his psychedelic colour scheme where perpetually eyerolling characters roam free. An abbreviation of “A Something Tells A Story”, Wong’s latest A_TAS art

project “INTERIOR MOOD” is next-level storytelling as he details milestones in his life, big and little—from his “best haircut experience from my barber friend Wilson” to his appreciation of TV show Breaking Bad—in 100 art pieces, all of which he hopes to exhibit one day, given the chance. A freelance graphic designer by day, Wong is adamant that A_TAS will be a creative brand which gradually covers all manner of art forms, from illustration or painting to streetwear, toys, music, sneaker culture and photography. For custom artwork, shoot him a friendly Instagram DM or head over to Inprnt.com where his prints are shipped worldwide.

•••••• IG: @a_tas.art Email: atasart1512@gmail.com

The best thing about supporting small artisanal businesses is seeing the love and dedication that go into the products we take home. Hello Kota is no exception when it comes to pouring in all the good stuff into their eco-friendly and well-crafted products! What immediately stands out is the intriguing designs of their bar soaps, but what we truly appreciate is the all-natural ingredient list stemming from native Sabahan trees Noni, Moringa and Graviola, which cater to the needs of the skin with their unending benefits.

Hello Kota also offers classes to anyone with an interest in crafting their own natural bar soaps catered to their specific skin type. But for the rest of us who prefer our products prepackaged to perfection, Hello Kota’s eco-conscious line of skin care, shampoos, detergents and perfumes are the way to go.

•••••• IG: @hello_kota.sun Email: hellokotasoap@gmail.com Tel: 6016-8316864 (Whatsapp)

biG feature

Dream Destinations feature

Around Borneo

I

think it’s safe to say that everyone’s dreaming about a holiday right now. In the BiG office, we all have our different versions (picture us morosely discussing this topic during lockdown): hike up a mountain with splendid vistas, visit monuments steeped in culture and history, go on a shopping spree, or simply veg out in front of a pool and get served

on hand and foot.

Borneo is a perfect destination to experience travel at its various spectrums for different types of travel – from luxury resort hops to budget backpacking. You can’t generalise a dream holiday, and with that logic and the fact that while we can’t travel, we can certainly dream, we at BiG came up with a couple of places to visit around Borneo for five different types of travellers.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

15

biG feature

The Luxury

Traveller

The traveller who enjoys the finer things in life, the Luxury Traveller travels in sophistication and style. Think luxury brands, resort hopping and fine-dining all the way.

Brunei If there was any doubt that Brunei could be considered as an option for a luxury vacation, you need only look at the gold dome of the splendid Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque, sitting amidst its own lagoon, Instagrammable from sunrise to midnight (but we would highly recommend snapping a photo around sunset). Still not convinced? Perhaps the golden domes of the largest residential palace, the Istana Nurul Iman, might convince you.

Look around at the heritage buildings, at the royal trappings in the Royal Regalia Museum, at the humble but undeniably luxurious Ash-Shaliheen Mosque, and let that dispel your doubts.

Or perhaps you just need to step into the splendiferous marble lobby of The Empire Brunei, with its impeccably dressed staff who greet you with a smile (it must be known that by and large, Bruneians are a friendly bunch), at the expansive two-storey window with the calming view of 16

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

the sea (sunset snacks at the Lobby Lounge will afford you breath-taking views). A Superior Room will already make you feel like a prince, with its large marble bathrooms and private balconies, but you’ll feel like a true king at the Ambassador Suite – featuring a spacious living area, dining area and private balcony; all sumptuously decorated for both luxury and comfort.

Unsurprisingly, fine dining options are a-plenty here: Italian fare at Spaghettini’s, Western fare at Pantai Restaurant, Chinese cuisine at Li Gong, some fantastic cakes and coffee at Zest. But if you’re looking to step out of the resort (although no one’s blaming you if you’d prefer to just soak some sun by one of their many pools, swing a club at their championship golf course or simply watch the latest theatrical

release at the lush Empire Cinema), then pay a visit to Alter Ego Fusion Café in Kiulap for some Western/Asian inspired cuisine in trendy settings.

Right across from Alter Ego is Euro Classic, where you’ll easily get lost shopping for decorative baubles and trinkets, elegant home wares, even some novelty knick-knacks. And if you’re still navigating Kiulap, head on over to Virgo Boutique for high quality

fashion attire off the rack, or if you have a little bit of extra time, get an outfit tailor-made just for you.

Back to the resort and you can find fancy branded accessories at the aptly named The Luxury Shop, as well as Crimson Square.

But if you want an experience that’s truly luxurious – climb aboard the MV Sentosa and experience the Brunei Bay, its mangrove-lined waterways and an unbeatable view of Brunei’s spectacular sunsets.

Sarawak

Sabah The beautiful sunsets in Sabah are the cherry on top of this nation’s luxury escapades. Add to that their beautiful resorts sprawling on green acres with stunning crystal blue seascape views, and there’s no question you can truly live it up in the high end life here.

An opulent adventure awaits on Gaya Island’s Malohom Bay, located just off the coast of Sabah, where you can rest in the lap of luxury within the protected environment of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Gaya Island Resort is a beachfront resort paradise nestled within the slopes of the rainforest, blending seamlessly into the nature surrounding it. Skilled chefs at their various dining establishments embrace the flavours of various cuisine, and if the view, comfortable rooms and delicious food isn’t relaxing enough for you, head on to the Spa Village for a holistic healing experience.

Or come back down to the city and check into the gorgeous Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort.

The laid-back charm of Sabah may be epitomised in the number of resorts scattered around the seaside city of Kota Kinabalu, but there is no doubt that Tanjung Aru Resort is the luxury epicenter – the city’s crème of the crop. This sprawling resort rests against a beachfront setting, housing 498 contemporary-styled rooms and suites designed to reflect Borneo’s rich cultural heritage.

Pamper yourself with a blissful spa treatment at the resort’s Chi, The Spa, or indulge in the many sports and recreation facilities they

have on offer here. The kids will have plenty of fun by themselves at the Kids’ Club, or just tanning themselves at the Water Play Area.

Naturally a luxury resort is going to come with fantastic fine dining options, but head into the city to do what everyone does when in Kota Kinabalu – eat some fresh seafood. You’ll find fresh premium seafood primped for your gastronomical pleasure at Jeti Seafood Restaurant.

Head on over to Imago Shopping Mall for a whole host of shopping options from Sephora to Victoria’s Secret. Visit East Malaysia’s first duty-free mall, the Jesselton Mall, to find couture brands, and high brand perfumes and cosmetics.

What’s left for a luxury-seeker to do? How about taking a cruise around Sabah’s famous islands on the North Borneo Yacht Charter and come aboard the Puteri Sutera, a Lagoon Power 44 luxury yacht that comes with a complete crew to cater to your every need.

The largest state of Malaysia brims with history, and any visitor to Sarawak is easily swept away by its laidback charms. If you’re looking for a place with tourist-trap clichés, then you’re looking at the wrong place to visit. But if you’re looking for a place that is warm, friendly, and authentic, this is where you need to go.

Luxury options are less about opulence and more about beautiful retreats, and one of the best retreats we can think of is the paradise getaway for the stars: Cove55. Offering luxurious ethnic luxury, this is the award-winning escape to forget about the rat race, stretch out by the crystal blue waters of its stunning infinity pool, and soak up that splendid view of Mount Santubong.

And when you’re stretching off the kinks of that magnificent nap by the pool, pay a visit to Kechala – their sophisticated in-house

restaurant that produces dishes infused with Sarawakian flavours, made with ingredients sourced from the surrounding jungles.

The city of Kuching is just 30 to 45 minutes away, if you’re looking to experience an urban landscape steeped in history. Head on down to iZakaya for a Japanese finedining experience, or dig into some meat at Carvery Kuching Restaurant.

Kuching is not a city that prides itself on glitz and glam, and nor should it be, and while you can certainly get in a good shopping spree while there, you will need to look a little further for luxury brands. The Treasure Box offers up many luxury brand accessories for those hunting a good deal for couture.

The luxe side of Sarawak is found in its enriching experiences – a priceless commodity. There are plenty of destination packages for you to indulge in that will allow you to experience Sarawak in all of its rich natural beauty.

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The Adventurist

If there’s one thing the adventure traveller seeks, it’s for life to never be boring.

Mapped out urban landscapes are deal-breakers – they prefer to seek thrills in nature, in discovering new terrain, and recording new experiences.

Brunei The exciting buzz of a city has no place in Temburong, Brunei’s less populated district that is home to the Ulu Temburong National Park – the green jewel in Brunei’s prized green spaces. And what a jewel it is: a sprawling 50,000-hectare expanse of undisturbed primary rainforest that is considered one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world.

If an adventure is to be had, then that adventure should be in the rainforest – bursting with flora and fauna with little thought for the humans who are coming for a visit.

The district accessible now by the newly opened Temburong Bridge that would easily take you from Kota Batu Road to Bangar Town, reaching Temburong has never been as easy as now. But this is an adventure, so go the traditional route: hail a boat from one of the jetties at the city center, haggle over prices, and take a boat ride down mangrovelined waterways where you might be lucky enough to spot proboscis monkeys and most likely some (eek!) crocodiles.

Accessing Sumbiling Eco Village requires another boat ride down a river – on a sampan that will take you along fast shallows and swirling rapids. An eco-lodge located smack in the middle of the rainforest, you

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can ‘glamp’ here in eco-friendly wooden structures located right alongside the Temburong River.

Sumbiling Eco Village is managed with the local Iban community, and if this is where you want to begin your rainforest adventure, they offer plenty of nature-based activities that that includes foraging, river fishing, sunrise and night walks, river tubing and cooking sessions.

Trendy hotspots and fine-dining establishments have no business in the rainforest – here there is a jungle-totable approach that ensures whatever you dine on is organic and fresh.

Local delicacies will be prepared under your watchful eye and your rumbling stomach, before you can dig into hearty meals like the Bamboo Chicken – a local favourite.

Located nearby is the Freme Rainforest Lodge, a place that definitely puts the fun in adventure.

While you can certainly take a walk across their suspension bridge and start hiking up the rainforest nature trails, have some fun at their ‘Adventure Park’ – an obstacle course that includes a soaring flying fox zipline that will take you past nature trails, over the river and right back to the steps of the lodge.

Sabah Of the myriad adventures that can be had in Sabah, the ultimate has always been the climb to the top of Mount Kinabalu –the Everest of every Bornean adventurer.

This World Heritage Site takes a minimum of two days to scale, and stands at a tall 4,095m above sea level.

Mount Kinabalu is considered to have some of the most accessible peaks in the world, and anyone ready to check ‘mountain climbing’ off their list should definitely attempt it. You can’t just get to the mountain and climb it, of course, with only 165 permits issued per day and mandatory overnight stay at a mountain accommodation, bookings need to be made at least 30 days in advance (there are plenty of local tour operators who can help, visit the Sabah Tourism Board website for more information).

Spectacular views are to be expected when scaling the tallest mountain in Malaysia, but what about off it? On the way to Mount Kinabalu, stop by Tamparuli Town to visit Bukit Perahu (or Bukit Ruhiang) – one of the more difficult hiking spots in Sabah.

Climbing up this hill is no casual hike, even at only 300 meters high, but reaching the summit by sunrise will earn you some of the most spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu, and other arresting vistas bathed in cloud and fog.

There are plenty of resorts

around for you to rest up your climb-weary (or ready) feet, and the Mountain Valley Resort, a boutique resort located in Kundasang, is one of many of those places. Only recently renovated in 2019, this resort is set on a hill surrounded by natural landscapes at 1200m above sea level, and epitomises serenity among the wilderness. Depending on the rooms you choose, you can wake up to a view of Mount Kinabalu or the Bundu Tuhan valley.

Sarawak If you’re going to have an adventure in Sarawak, then we’ll be directing you to go to Miri, take a MASWings flight to Mulu, and pay a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mulu National Park.

There’s plenty of adventure to be had in the 544 sq km of Sarawak’s largest national park, which contains a tropical rainforest, river rapids, a limestone mountain range, thousands of species of flora and fauna, and the world’s most extensive cave system. Within its boundaries lay three of the region’s and the world’s largest and longest caves: the Deer Cave (the world’s largest cave passage), the Sarawak Chamber (the world’s largest natural chamber) and the Clearwater Cave (the longest cave in Southeast Asia), and adventure caving can be continued through the ancient

river passage in Lagang Cave, and climbing up and down passageways in the Racer Cave.

But let’s talk about that gorgeous rock formation: the world famous Mulu Pinnacles.

A series of 45 meter high, razor sharp limestone spikes that tower above the rainforest like jungle skyscrapers, the trekking to its summit is not for the amateur climber, and as hard as the climb is, apparently the descent is even tougher. It must absolutely not be attempted without an official park guide (for more information, visit mulunationalpark.com).

There are a few options for accommodation around the area, but we would recommend pampering yourself before and after your adventures by checking into the Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa in Sungai Melinau – an absolute oasis amid the rainforest.

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Cultural

Pilgrim Brunei Vultures for history and culture will find inexhaustible resources in this peaceful Sultanate. In this modern day and age you will still be able to trace 700 years of its storied history in the buildings and landmarks you see today, and it is simply as gawk-worthy as any fancy skyscraper in a bustling metropolis.

Accommodations are plentiful in Brunei, but why would you stay in a concrete structure when you can experience the genuine warmth and welcome of a local family’s home? Community is the heart of Brunei, and their many homestay options reflect this. There are great options for you in every district, but if you want a proper Bruneian experience, we would advise you to hail a boat from the jetty, hop on, head into the water village and into the waiting arms of Kemariah Durahman and her home, the Kunyit 7 Lodge.

Kampong Ayer, Brunei’s famed water village, is the largest residential water village in Southeast Asia and a Bruneian treasure that has truly stood

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A cultural pilgrim doesn’t want to experience a country as a tourist. These travellers are ready to go off the beaten track to shed their own cultural norms and experience day-today life as a true blue local. Only homestays, locally made products and local food need apply.

the test of time. Known as the ‘Venice of the East’, this historical settlement is home to more than 9,000 people. If you’re looking to live like a local, travel like a local, and eat like a local, then this is the place for you.

There is local food a-plenty in Brunei, and many places for you to try it out. Stick to Kampong Ayer and eat soto with a view of the Raja

Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Bridge at Restoran Terapung (Floating Restaurant), which offers delicious meals that needs little in the way of frills. But you simply cannot go to Brunei without trying their ambuyat – which we would recommend you do post-haste at Tarindak D’Seni.

For more local gastronomical treats, head on over to the Pasar Pelbagai Barangan Gadong (Gadong Night Market) for a plethora of delicious local treats

to try.

Now your stomach’s fed, time to feed the thirst for history and culture! A simple walk around the city center will more than satisfy your needs, with the Brunei Arts and Handicraft Centre, the Royal Regalia Museum, the Royal Wharf, among many others, all giving you an insight into what Brunei looked like at a simpler time. Make sure you stop for a photo op at the magnificent Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

While taking this walking tour, make sure you stop at Tamu Kianggeh, which is located by the Kianggeh River, where you can buy some local handicrafts while loading up on some delectable local snacks.

Sabah Is it possible for a cultural pilgrim to not become enamoured with Sabah, otherwise known as ‘Land below the wind’, a state known for its multiculturalism? Different ethnic groups live together peacefully here, with a history that can be traced back to early 15th century.

A haven of history and culture can be found in the state of Sabah, and the best way to experience its authenticity is to check into a homestay for a true Sabahan experience. Options are many, and it truly depends on which region of Sabah you would prefer to stay in.

A three-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu will take you to Kudat, aka the Tip of Borneo, located in

the upper north state of Sabah, and also a major centre for the Rungus ethnic community. It is also fantastically beautiful: a trip to Tanjung Simpang Mengayau (which means ‘lingering junction’, so named because this is where the South China Sea meets with the Sulu Seas flowing from the east) will afford you the best sunset and moonlit views. It’s an easy stroll along this rocky outcrop that forms the ‘Tip of Borneo’, and you can even spend some time walking along the sands of the beautiful Kalampunian Beach.

If authenticity is what you want, then check into the Rungus Longhouse in Kampung Bavanggazo – made completely out of traditional materials such as split bamboos for walls and nipah palm leaves for roofing. Here, you’ll be able to experience living like a true Rungus ethnic – dining on traditional food and enjoying their traditional performances.

Complete this cultural trip by paying a visit to Tamu Kudat – a market where you can shop like a local, eat like a local, and haggle like a local too. This is a great way to discover local produce from this region, and unique Rungus handicrafts to bring home.

Sarawak The Land of the Hornbills is a state that veers away from tourist trap clichés and encourages you to go off the beaten track – and what a trail it will take you on. Sarawak is a land rich in history, cultural diversity, myths and folklore, and natural wonders - perfect reasons why this should be a travel destination for any culture-thirsty traveller.

Malaysia’s largest state is home to 27 ethnic groups with 45 different dialects, so if you’re looking to hang out with the locals and experience an authentic day-to-day life here, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

We’ve mentioned that Sarawak is Malaysia’s largest state so expect a fair bit of journeying to get to your destination. It’s all part of the experience, after all.

We’re zeroing in on Rumah Nyuka Longhouse, located in Ulu Sarikei (the closest major town is Sibu, located 85km away), and as it’s located in a hilly region, the best way to get here is by taking a winding drive along crests of hills. If you can stomach the heights, then you’ll appreciate the scenic views this motorcar rollercoaster ride affords you.

This longhouse has been around since 1955 and if you’re wondering how it’s still standing strong, it’s because the longhouse is made entirely out of ‘belian’ wood, aka tropical ironwood. Needless to say, it’s pretty hardy timber.

Around 40 families live in this longhouse, and it’s a great way to experience the people of Sarikei’s hospitality. Visitors can trek to nearby waterfalls and learn about the day-to-day life of the Iban lifestyle – which includes having some fun in the ruai (the main hall), and seeing how they process their homegrown food.

They also make an assortment of handicrafts made from bamboo and rattan sourced by the surrounding jungle.

Venture out of Sarikei and back to Sibu, and make sure to visit the Jetty Paradom – a historical landmark that was built in 1954. Step inside one of the kopitiams near the river for a cup of coffee and sit back and enjoy the view.

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The Soul

Searcher The Soul Searcher isn’t content to rest in the leather armchair of his or her soul; this traveller is always looking for new landscapes and new experiences for that life-changing moment, or to simply ponder on the deep philosophies of life. The Soul Searcher understands the importance of caring for oneself, and seeks to rejuvenate, revive or just relax their physical and mental state of being. Serene sights in which to reflect on one’s self is an absolute plus.

Brunei Of the four districts that make up the Sultanate, Tutong might be the most overlooked (which is just silly – after all Tutong is the district that introduced us to the best rojak in Brunei via KK Koya Restaurant and the best pulut panggang via Mei Fang Restaurant). But if there were ever a place to veer your vehicle off the highway and down long winding roads, then Tutong would be it. Residential houses vary from humble to modern to ostentatious but one thing unites them all: nature. All over the place.

But you’re a soul searcher so this is your jam, and speaking of jam, did you know that Eco Ponies Garden promotes locally made jam made from ingredients plucked from the jungle? By the way, Tutong also has its own

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bee farm, which produces its own honey, and also its own watermelon farm, and while we’re on the topic, they even have their own brand of tea. Located in Lamunin, Eco Ponies is a family-run, community supported farm stay with quirky paths connecting little wooden huts scattered around a large lush green landscape. It is serene, quaint, and fantastically photogenic.

Look for your soul in Eco Ponies Garden, and if your soul is a foodie, you might never want to leave. Employing a farm-to-table concept, everything you eat here would be home cooked kampung cuisine prepared in the traditional way, and it is simply delicious.

You can bring a little of that home with you, with their Eko Kampung brand which makes local jams and teas (we did say

you could get this in Tutong).

But we encourage you to explore Tutong. Visit Kiudang Village, which has a house exhibiting cultural antiques and their own brand of tea.

Visit Brunei’s largest natural lake, Tasek Merimbun, which is located in Mukim Rambai and is surrounded by the lush greenery that make up the Tasek Merimbun Heritage Park.

And please do go into town, try the aforementioned rojak and pulut panggang, which you can enjoy in a restaurant located in an old shophouse overlooking the Tutong River, and while away some time spotting as many different species of birds that fly over the serene scene, and maybe a crocodile or two.

Sabah Remarkably, Kota Belud is not one of the more popular hotspots in Sabah. But we should be thankful for this as well, because if it were a place crawling with tourists, then it might lose its appeal. So let’s be selfish together and be happy that there exists such a beautiful and secluded spot not far from Kota Kinabalu, which is primarily occupied by the West Coast Bajau people, and is home to some of the more underrated scenic views in the state.

Friendly people, serene rivers, emerald green paddy fields, an odd buffalo or two, lush tropical greenery and blue skies as far as the eye can see - this is what you can expect from Kota Belud.

Glamp along Rampayan Beach at the Cabana Retreat, which offers you all of the amenities and services you’d expect from a hotel, with one exception: your room will be in a tent. But this is glamping, so expect luxurious furnishing in the spacious interior, and know that when

you sleep at night, it’ll be to the sounds of nature, with a priceless beachfront view as soon as you step outside.

Rejuvenate at the beach, but revive yourself by taking in the kaleidoscope of colours, smells and sounds by walking through the open air market of Tamu Kota Belud, where you can take part in some friendly haggling of prices with the locals when you shop for local produce and locally made handicrafts while munching on delicious local snacks.

Speaking of eating, we hope you’re a fan of noodles because the lovely people at Kota Belud are. They love it so much in fact that they have their own type of noodle dish called Mee Sup Kota Belud – which consists of chicken broth and homemade noodles.

Take a trek up the scenic Bongol Hill, offering panaromic views of Mount Kinabalu and the Kota Belud coastline. Or hit the water – take a river cruise down mangrove-lined waterways or have some fun and go river rafting on the Kiulu River.

Sarawak The rainforest, a mountain, sprawling beaches with unparalleled vistas, monkeys with big noses and pigs with beards, spending a night in the trees – this is the kind of unique experience Borneo can offer a visitor looking to reset and revive. The Santubong Peninsula and the Bako National Park is truly one of our favourite places in Borneo, and they had some pretty stiff competition!

It’s just under an hour’s drive away from the Kuching International Airport, and in that short space of time you are immediately transported from the city to lush green scenes and vast waters. The green slopes of Mount Santubong is where the rainforest meets the sea, and the sea is home to finless porpoises, Indo-pacific humpback dolphins, and the rare Irrawaddy dolphin.

If being in the thick of all of this natural wonder and wildlife is what gets your soul breathing,

then we suggest you check into the Permai Rainforest Resort where instead of rooms in a building, or in chalets, or even in cottages, you’ll be getting the treehouse experience. Cabins are built on wooden stilts about onestorey up (yes, there are stairs to climb up, be warned) and you’ll find yourself in accommodations that are almost hidden by the thick foliage that surrounds you.

And monkeys. Let it be known that there will be monkeys too.

From your treehouse, it’s a quick walk out of the rainforest and into the fresh open air of the beach with a fantastic view of a misty Mount Santubong and some of the best sunsets in Borneo.

If climbing Mount Santubong is on your agenda, Permai Rainforest Resort can help you out with that. Along with this, there are plenty of activities they can help you with from kayaking to snorkeling.

Bako National Park is just a twenty-minute boat ride away – a wildlife sanctuary with blissed out views. You’ll get a little bit of everything here: sandy beaches, mangroves, rainforests and rocky outcrops. Just about every known species of Bornean animal can be found here except orangutans, which are just a twenty-minute drive away at the Semenggoh Orangutan Sanctuary.

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Urbanite The Urbanite has no time for nature, and he or she is not going to apologise for it. They are modern techsavvy travellers (typically millennials) looking for the next unique top to buy, the best meal to post on IG, and city hotels that can accommodate their social media needs.

Brunei Okay we hear you. When you think of big cities, neon lights and a pulsing nightlife, Brunei doesn’t come to mind. But if you’re thinking of hidden corners, trendy spots, and a community of art enthusiasts and entrepreneurs who absolutely know what’s up, then let’s consider Brunei.

First up, stay at a central location, and there’s no place we can consider a better option than Radisson Hotel Brunei, which on top of offering lush accommodations with modern 24

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In Brunei it’s less about where it’s at, and more to do with whose Instagram you follow, and because of that, pop-up markets are hugely popular here. Make sure to follow event organisers amenities and fantastic service, they like @thecollectiveartevents and also have some of the best Indian @bigbwnproject, who always food in the Sultanate (Riwaz is the have a unique weekend market only high-end Indian restaurant in happening at different locations Brunei) and just great food, period around Brunei. If you’re looking to (Tasek Brasserie will attest to that). view some of our local art, follow

@soundncanvas, @creative.space. brunei and @ks.bn (Kaleidoscope Studio) to see if they have an art exhibition opening up, or just visit the Royal Wharf in the city center to see what art they’ve got on display there.

All those aside, there are plenty of brick and mortar malls to visit in the country’s most populated areas, such as the Seri Q-Lap Mall in Kiulap, Times Square Shopping Complex in Kg Jaya Setia, Yayasan Shopping Complex in the city center, and the biggest one, The Mall in Gadong.

We would recommend dining at the promenade with a view of the river at One Riverside, which has a wide selection of trendy restaurants to dine in!

Sarawak

Sabah Would you doubt a city that everyone in Borneo goes to for a shopping weekend? Kota Kinabalu is a city that has so much going on, all you need to do is walk from Point A to Point B and you’ll find yourself a very satisfied urbanite.

There is truly no shortage of great accommodation in downtown Kota Kinabalu, most with a fantastic sea view for a quick bit of zen before you set forth to expend some purchasing power, but we’re going to direct you to one of the newer hotels with a view. The Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel is located smack dab in the heart of the central business district, along the city’s famed Waterfront, and its stylish rooms offers panaromic sea views – a view you really cannot put a price on. With the tranquility of the view from your room to the hustle and bustle of the district outside, it really does offer you the best of both worlds.

But lets step out of the comfortable confines of the hotel and into the city itself, and you’ll find there’s plenty to do here, most within walking distance. The magnificent glass structure that is the main entrance of Suria Sabah might be your first destination (check out the lovely graffiti art on pillars just across the road from here). From there to the large Imago Shopping Mall, located at the other end of Jalan Tun Razak, you’ll find other distractions along the way. Step into Centre Point Sabah, Wisma Merdeka and Oceanus Waterfront Mall for other shopping complexes to visit, or just wander through buildings and check out what’s going on.

Markets are a mustvisit as well, and the Gaya Street Sunday Market, Pasar Besar and Filipino Market are worth a look into just to engage with some of the locals and to buy a handicraft or quirky item or two.

There are also plenty of places to dine at. Laundroluxe is located along that road and is the epitome of urban chic. The humble but well-known Sri Latha Curry House along Jalan Berjaya is a great option for delicious Indian food.

But no one goes to Kota Kinabalu without sampling some of their fresh seafood, so head down to the waterfront such as the Todak Waterfront Hawker Centre for some cheap seafood with a great view!

There is no city quite like the Cat City. Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, is a city with people that take pride in their culture and heritage, and you’ll see this in the unmistakably unique Kuching hospitality.

It’s also a very compact city, with everything from food to sight-seeing to shopping reachable by foot or by river.

Speaking of river, we suggest you get your bearings by taking a boat ride down the Sarawak River, the center of this lovely city, and see what Kuching has to offer. You’ll see Malay villages, a Victorian fort, a golden-domed mosque, and 19th century Chinese shophouses within a backdrop of picturesque mountains and hilltops.

Then get down and head on over to the narrow streets that comprise the city centre, where you’ll find a plethora of hidden

gems. Just a walk will show you a mishmash yet seamless blend of culture, from ornate Chinese temples, some colonial-style architecture, and a number of museums like the historic Sarawak Museum.

Visit the Main Bazaar – a row of traditional shophouses that face the water, and a great place to shop for Sarawakian handicrafts. And when you’re hungry, visit Kai Joo Lane Night Market: two rows of 32 shops offering a variety of local food.

If you’re ready for an airconditioned window shopping experience, head to the malls.

Check out The Hills, the Vivacity Megamall, The Spring Shopping Mall, Plaza Merdeka and the most recently opened AEON Mall Kuching Central to get your shopping fix!

Kuching really is a kaleidoscope of new and old, and the renovated Old Court House is a prime example of this. Built in the late 19th century as an administrative centre, it now houses a café and bar, the Ranee Museum, and is a prime venue for arts and performances.

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The Lok Baintan Floating Market is one of the more popular travel destinations in Indonesia, where dozens of traders take to the Tabuk River and begin trading via canoes from dawn. Sellers and buyers are locals from Banjar ethnic, and it’s an industry dominated by women.

The Lok Baintan Floating Market is located in Banjar District, South Borneo, Indonesia. Banjarmasin City is located just 11km away, and the floating market can be accessed via rental boat (a 30 minute journey) or by motor vehicle, about 40-60 minutes away from Banjarmasin.

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Best Places to Visit in

KALIMANTAN I’m sure all of us are well aware that a large part of Borneo (around 73% actually) is taken up by Kalimantan, which is a part of Indonesia. Maybe some of you know that Kalimantan actually means ‘Burning Weather Island’, which derives from the Sanskrit for Kalamanthana, and which tells you a lot about the weather you’ll be expecting here.

It’s all about the equatorial climate in Borneo, and Kalimantan is actually located very close to the equator. In fact, the city of Pontianak actually lies directly over the equatorial line.

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sun rays, or indulge in some water sports activities.

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alimantan is a nature’s wonderland, with acres of unspoilt rainforest and miles of rivers here. Which means if you’re looking to check back with nature and experience a virtually untouched lush jungle, this is the place to go.

Here are some of the best places to check out when in Kalimantan.

BALIKPAPAN For those of us just looking to dip our toes into nature, let’s ease into the adventure by stopping by Balikpapan, possibly the most urban city you can find in Kalimantan. Located in Eastern Balikpapan, rural areas skirt the city so you can try out a few nature-based activities before retreating back into the comfort of a modern hotel room. Scenic beaches can be found here, including Manggar Segarasari Beach, Benua Patra Beach and Lamaru Beach, and some fun activities such as visiting the Sun Bear Education and Conservation Centre, Bangkirai Hill Nature Tourism and the Margomulyo Mangrove Forest.

MARATUA ISLAND This island belongs to the Derawan Archipelago, and is home to the Maratua Paradise Resort. You will also find two famous lakes here (Tanah Bamban Lake and Hajj Buang Lake). This is a hugely photogenic island, with a wide expanse of sandy beaches and crystal clear blue waters.

Lounge around and catch some

DERAWAN ISLAND This UNESCO World Heritage Site lies off the cost of Kalimantan, and is a part of its own small archipelago. The waters here are teeming with marine life and is one of the best places to go for a dive in Borneo. One of the most popular dive spots here is the Blue Trigger Wall - a famous rock about 18 meters long that sits below the surface of the water.

DANAU SENTARUM NATIONAL PARK Stretching as far as 132,000 hectares, this park is a large area of wetland made up of peat swamps, and is a great place to check out a wide diversity of 1 flora and fauna in picturesqure surroundings. Expect to see crocodiles, orangutans, a variety of birds, and Borneo’s famous big-nosed native: the proboscis monkey.

TANJUNG PUTING NATIONAL PARK One of the most popular premium parks in Kalimantan, this is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where you’ll find the largest number of orangutans in Kalimantan lounging in trees in a conservation and research center. Spanning about 415,050 hectares of land, here you can take a leisurely river cruise while training your eye on the trees to spot as much of the local wildlife as you can, which includes clouded leopards, sun bears and red monkeys.

KAKABAN ISLAND If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming with jellyfish without fear of being stung, this is the place to go. One of the more popular islands in Kalimantan, Kakaban Island has a majestic lake located in the center which

is filled with, you guessed it, non-poisonous jellyfish (namely the Golden Jellyfish and Moon Jellyfish) that you can actually take a swim with! This is only one of two places in the world where you can swim with jellyfish, so this is a must-visit.

PONTIANAK The largest city in Kalimantan with the most unfortunate name (we can’t even say why), the city of Pontianak sits at the point where two rivers meet, namely Sungai Kapuas and Sungai Ladak. This is a great place to visit for a cultural traveller, and houses the Museum Negeri Pontianak and the former royal palace Istana Kadriyah.

SEMBUKU SEMBAKUNG NATIONAL PARK Running along the border of East Kalimantan, this natural forest runs across a span of 400,000 hectares and is one of the latest areas in Kalimantan to be declared a national park. A whole ecology of land can be found here, from mangrove swamps to lush forests to hilly areas, but come here for the elephants. This is the only place in Kalimantan where you’ll find them!

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1. Maratua Island 2. Derawan Island 3. A leisurely cruise on the Sekonyer River at the

Tanjung Puting National Park 4. See proboscis monkeys at the Danau Sentarum National Park 5. The city of Pontianak

6. The city of Balikpapan 7. Swim with jellyfish at Kakaban Island

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Realising Dreams with

Re/Act Impak

In Brunei over the past few years, it has been encouraging to see people beginning a journey into social entrepreneurship out of passion for great causes, Re/Act Impak blew into the social entrepreneurship scene with the understanding that while support for local products was growing, it’s a mishmash of information and products scattered around social media posts, rendering the purpose behind each product insignificant.

They understood that this was an issue that needed an innovative solution.

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T

he initial idea for Re/Act Impak was pitched in the Startup Weekend: Women’s Edition back in 2018, and since then the three women behind Re/Act has remained consistent in connecting purpose-driven businesses and in building trusting partnerships. However they have also evolved as the team got to know more like-minded entrepreneurs who put purpose before profit.

Shirley Sikun, Chief Idea Ambassador behind Re/Act, runs the show along with Buzz Ambassador Fatin Muzini and Chief Visionary Nazurah Salleh.

Shirley explained, “Our aim (for Re/Act) is to have a platform that allows consumers to buy with a purpose. We want to be the gateway to sustainably made local products that represent the beauty of Borneo; but also educate and advocate for conscious living.”

“Brunei has so much culture and heritage to offer. We are seeing a growth in support of local products, and that’s heartening to see. However we do see that pulling together the array of products in a cohesive storyline makes the act of purchasing a lot more meaningful. It’s about purposeful consumerism, knowing who made your

products and how you are supporting their livelihoods.

Telling the story behind each of the product and wrapping them up into a connected narrative is what we focus on.”

Their website (https:// react-impak.com) is one such way, and is working toward becoming a conscious lifestyle platform that honours local culture and heritage. It began with the aim to inspire others into purposeful entrepreneurship by telling real life stories about local social enterprises, with the hope that more stories will be shared with representation across Borneo.

“We are a very small team that values trust and collaboration,” Shirley further explained. “Our social enterprises can rely on us to connect them with likeminded folks so that we can work together to scale up our positive impact.”

Another mission of theirs is to spread the word by hosting events, and their past two events (‘Conscious Marketplace’ in September 2019 and ‘Re/think’ food event earlier this year) was met with great feedback and success, with a percentage

of profits from each event toward climate change projects. They hope to host another event before the end of the year with the hopes of raising climate awareness.

A recent idea that came into light was a gift hamper they offered on their website which made great Hari Raya gifts, an idea that came about as a response to the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses. The hamper came in the form of a handwoven basket which contained homegrown coffee from Labi, Blue Sambah tea from Tutong, Stingless bee honey, locally grown rice, a hand carved coconut bowl, homemade Rosella jam and a ketupat in the shape of a rooster – a piece of Dusun culture.

It was a great way of introducing others to locally made products available in Brunei.

It’s a beautiful thing to know that there are three hard-working women in our nation who are thinking up and executing creative solutions to bring awareness to conscious business and ethical consumerism. It’s certainly hard work, and we think it’s high time that they

get recognition of the role they play in advocating these positive social changes.

And since this is an issue about dreams and dreamscapes, what are the three women’s dreams for Re/Act going forward?

“We would like Re/Act to be known across Borneo as the go-to folks to have their products marketed. It would be wonderful if we could reach a scale that allows us to offer employment. We’re a three-woman team and we all have our day jobs and commitments – it would be great to have dedicated staff to help us further our goal.”

Find out how you can connect with Re/Act by following them on Instagram (@react.impak).

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G

ili Lankanfushi’s rustic chic aesthetic belies the supremely luxurious accommodation offering. All 45 villas are located over water and offer direct access to the lucent turquoise waters surrounding the island resort. The design emphasises the connection between the land and sea, with glass floor panels offering a glimpse of the corals blooming below, whilst daybeds on the private roof terraces can be made up with luxurious linens for a night spent sleeping beneath the stars. The one-bedroom Villa Suite that I was assigned to boasts open-air living areas and bathrooms with a roof terrace and air-conditioned bedroom, and private decks with direct access to the lagoon below.

getaway

Wan Zainal Abidin Gili Lankanfushi

1

Gili Lankanfushi sits on one of the many atolls peppered around Maldives – a definite part of today’s travel zeitgeist, and one of the dreamiest locations on earth. Wan Zainal Shazali checks himself into one of Maldives’ best-loved resorts for a modern Robinson Crusoe experience.

M A L D I V IAN

At the end of last year, the previously voted ‘Best Hotel in The World’ by TripAdvisor reopened its doors to its sophisticated eco-conscious guests following an extensive renovation post my visit.

Private pools were added to the enhanced Residence and Villa suites for extra seclusion, while the Family Villa with pools are the latest addition to the property featuring two en suite bedrooms, a private swimming pool for children to splash in, a rooftop terrace and a living room over the lagoon connected by walkways. And for those with cash to splash, there is always the option of checking into the Private Reserve; the largest overwater villa in the

castaway

2

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

4

3

world. Measuring 1700 square meters, the building is located 500m from the main island and boasts four bedrooms, open-air cinema, spa, gym, infinity pool and a two-storey waterslide!

While some visitors take time to visit neighbouring local villages or indulge in over water adventures, I was contented spending my afternoons alternating between snorkeling around my villa and enjoying the delights of holistic healing in the spectacular overwater structure at the Meera Spa. Evenings were spent having sundowners on the terrace of the Overwater Bar, soaking in the amazing sunsets and the views of the Indian Ocean beyond. Occupying an enviable position overlooking the calm waters of Gili Lagoon, the bar is often frequented by reef sharks and rays drifting through the languid waters below.

Of course, the star attraction four evenings per week has got to be the transformation of the beach and the Overwater Bar into a buzzing market experience offering culinary delights from Asia to Mediterranean and India to Maldives. The most memorable part of my stay has got to be the surprise sandbank sunset canapes and cocktails organised

by Serene, my very own Ms. Friday who hails from Malaysia. This was followed by the most beautiful 6

5

destination dining experience: a lantern lit feast amongst the towering palms of Palm Beach, to celebrate my advance birthday! And as food and desserts go, the exquisite menu that the chefs orchestrated and their fine flavours do take some beating.

There are of course many other dining options on the resort. Kashiveli, the main restaurant on the beach serves a sumptuous breakfast spread including my favourite traditional Maldivian breakfast of Mas Huni, Maldivian Curry and Roti. There’s even the chance to learn how to make this delicious local curry and take a slice of Maldivian soul home. The Underground Cellar is an intimate dining room built around a huge piece of driftwood, offering a decadent degustation menu while By The Sea is a dining venue that serves delicious Japanese teppanyaki meals and sushi housed above the gym facing the sea!

Other highlights of my visit included the sunset sail on the traditional dhoni around the island and the compulsory dolphin spotting on a luxurious yacht, complete with canapes and drinks. On other occasions, it was just sunny Maldivian days savoured poolside or in the privacy of my own villa, that goes from memorable to magical with each passing hour.

In a resort this small, it is amazing that Gili Lankanfushi can offer an extraordinary list of luxuries but the greatest luxury of all is finding total inward peace. There’s no need to do anything.

Shoes off, power down and bliss out!

1. Personal guest experience host Mr (or Ms)

Friday at your service 2. A view from the top: the Villa Suite with a Pool at Gili Lankanfushi 3. Cosy luxury in the Residence bedrooms 4. By The Sea serves delicious Japanese cuisine 5. The Lagoon Champa - a wedding pavilion 6. Dine under the stars at Palm Beach

GILI LANKANFUSHI Lankanfushi Island, North Malé Atoll Republic of Maldives, Maldives Tel : 960-6640304 www.gili-lankanfushi.com Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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appetite Banana Bread Everyone on the Internet will tell you that their banana bread recipe is the best one, but on behalf of all amateur bakers everywhere, let me assure you that this was one of the easiest. For the first time ever, my first baking attempt was a successful one, and I’ve been using this recipe (which I procured from Food.com) regularly since.

Quick note: I used Dole bananas for this recipe but have successfully used local bananas as well (adding another banana if they were particularly small).

Ingredients ½ cup butter, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs, beaten 3 bananas, crushed 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon vanilla (optional) Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350F/180C 2. Cream together butter and sugar, and then add eggs and crushed bananas 3. Combine well 4. Sift together flour, baking soda and salt and then add to creamed mixture 5. Add vanilla 6. Mix until combined (do not overmix) 7. Pour into greased and floured loaf pan 8. Bake for 55 minutes Tweak it: Add powdered cinnamon to the mixture, then some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

COOKING DURING COVID-19 Intan Abu Daniel It was truly a culinary phenomenon.

During the days of lockdown, my beloved sister, who is a reluctant cook on any other day (Level: can’t be bothered), started whipping out masterful baked goods from sourdough creations to biryani from scratch (Level: Gordon Ramsay). The drastic changes did not arise from the invasion of the Bodysnatchers (though plausible) – they were simply a part of a global culinary phenomenon with a simple mathematical equation: Bored + Hungry x (can’t leave the house + desperation) / Cravings = If I can’t go out to get it, I’ll just make it myself!

During the pandemic, everyone spent an inordinate amount of time in an apron poring through recipes online. Dormant culinary genes came bursting out, and Chef Gusteau from Ratatouille was totally correct: anybody can cook!

When it comes to Self-Quarantine Comfort Food, here are a few of the favourites we’ll continue making post-pandemic.

Dalgona Milo Dalgona is a simple and delicious coffee beverage with instant Instagram-worthy results, and there was a time when this viral recipe was on everyone’s social media feed.

The combination is simple: equal amounts coffee, sugar and hot water are creamed together and then spooned on top of a glass of iced milk.

Literally, there is no hope of failing this recipe. Until you decide to make a non-coffee version for your son.

Firstly, creaming together Milo and hot water and sugar will not produce the same results as coffee (our aching limbs after whisking forever taught us this). Our failed attempts led us on an online hunt and to food blogger Erwan Heussaff, who shared his perfected Dalgona Milo recipe on YouTube.

Easy Vegetable Biryani A healthier version (don’t hate us biryani lovers) using recipes most likely already stored in any Asian home kitchen, this is a tried and true recipe from easypeasyfoodie.com.

Ingredients 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 onion, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced 3 cloves garlic, grated 1 teaspoon chili flakes 2 teaspoons cumin seeds 2 teaspoons garam masala 2 teaspoons turmeric powder 300g basmati rice 400ml tin coconut milk 200ml water 100g frozen peas Fresh coriander, chopped finely (for garnish) Directions 1. Heat olive oil, sliced onions and bell peppers in a large frying pan with a lid and fry gently, with the lid on, for five minutes until softened but not browned, making sure to stir occasionally 2. Remove lid and add garlic, chilli flakes and spices and fry for two

Ingredients 2 tablespoons Milo powder 2 tablespoons hot water 1 tablespoon sugar Whipping cream One tall glass iced milk Directions 1. Combine Milo, hot water and sugar into a syrup 2. Whip the cream in a separate bowl 3. Gradually whisk the Milo syrup with the cream until you get a creamy texture 4. Put a dollop on top of iced milk Make it more Instagram-worthy: Top with some Milo powder and marshmallows!

minutes, stirring occasionally 3. Add rice and stir to coat the rice with the onions, garlic and spices, then add coconut milk and water and bring to the boil 4. Put the lid back on the frying pan and turn the heat down, simmering for seven minutes 5. Add peas to the pan, stir and replace the lid, and then cook for a further five minutes or until the rice is done (if it starts sticking to the pan before the rice is cooked, add some water) 6. Sprinkle fresh coriander on top Accompany it: Make yourself some cool cucumber raita, fiery curry and crunchy popadom to go with it.

biG appetite

One-Pan Pasta There are plenty of simple pasta recipes where you can just glug in some olive oil, add garlic, fry up some meat, cook up some pasta, add in some vegetables, stir it all together and end up with a delicious bowl of pasta in your hands. This recipe (actually called ‘First Night in Florence Spaghetti’ and taken from food52.com) requires a bit more finesse, but comprise ingredients any pasta-enthusiast would most likely already have in their cupboards.

Ingredients 250g spaghetti Sea salt Olive oil 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 can tuna packed in olive oil, not drained Handful of spinach leaves Juice of ½ a lemon Parmesan cheese Directions 1. Heat a large pot of generously salted water and cook your spaghetti, setting a timer for three minutes less than the recommended cooking time 2. Set a pan to medium high heat and add in a good amount of olive oil (about two or three times more than you’re comfortable with) 3. When the olive oil is hot, add the tomatoes, turning the heat down if the tomatoes start to spatter 4. When the tomatoes have softened, add the garlic 5. When it begins to get fragrant, add the tuna (do not drain, add with the oil), breaking up large chunks with a wooden spoon 6. Turn down heat and allow to simmer 7. Once the pasta is cooked, use tongs to lift out of the boiling water and drop directly into the pan, adding a few ladles of pasta water 7. Mix pasta, water, tomatoes and garlic before tossing in spinach and add lemon juice 8. Cook until spinach is wilted and season with salt and pepper 9. Grate Parmesan cheese on top Word to the wise: As in any Italian (though this applies to any cuisine) dish, quality ingredients will elevate this simple pasta dish into a truly worthy one. Use good olive oil, a good brand of tuna, quality Parmesan and plump cherry tomatoes, if at all possible.

at room temperature ¾ cup brown sugar ¼ cup granulated sugar 1½ tablespoon ground cinnamon

Cinnamon Rolls Cinnamon Rolls isn’t a dish where you can just throw ingredients together and hope for the best (ironically, how I cook most things). This recipe, which was taken from laurainthekitchen.com and perfected by our Assistant Graphic Designer, requires a good amount of patience and diligence, so feel free to kick out any and all annoyances from your kitchen (kids and siblings included), prepare your measuring cups, listen to some soothing music, and start baking!

Ingredients 1 package dry yeast ¾ cup whole milk (fresh) ¼ cup granulated sugar ¼ cup water, warmed up to 115C ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract 1 egg 1 teaspoon salt ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted 4 cups all-purpose flour ¼ cup melted butter (to brush over the top before baking) For the filling 1/3 cup unsalted butter,

Deep Dish Cookie Bowl Okay lets dial the fancy recipes back a notch and get down to some true comfort food, and nothing says comfort like chocolate chip cookies. This recipe for two is taken from pinchofyum.com.

Ingredients 3 tablespoons butter, melted 1/3 cup brown sugar 1 egg yolk ½ teaspoon vanilla ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons floor 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon baking soda ¼ cup chocolate chips Directions 1. Preheat oven to 325F

For the glaze ¼ cup cream cheese, at room temperature 1 tablespoon butter, at room temperature 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 3 to 4 tablespoons warm milk Directions 1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and one teaspoon of granulated sugar, sprinkling yeast over the top and let sit for about five minutes 2. In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix the egg, milk, salt, sugar and melted butter, then add two cups of flour and water, vanilla and yeast mixture, and mix until all ingredients are incorporated 3. Slowly add two more cups of flour; turn the speed up to medium and let it mix for about five to seven minutes or until you have a smooth dough 4. Oil a large bowl with vegetable oil and set aside; take the dough out of the mixer and pull it together with your hands to form a ball before placing it in the oiled bowl and greasing the top of the ball of dough with

a little vegetable oil; cover with plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot to rise for about two hours 5. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar and cinnamon, then set aside 6. When the dough has doubled in size, punch the dough down and roll it out onto a floured surface into a 15x9” rectangle; spread soft butter over the top and sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly 7. Starting from one of the long ends, tightly roll the dough into a jelly form; cut into 14 to 16 even slices and place them cut side down in a well buttered 9x13 baking pan; cover with plastic wrap and put back into a warm spot to rise for another 1½ hours 8. Meanwhile preheat your oven to 350F 9. Once risen, brush the tops with melted butter and bake for about 30 minutes or golden brown 10. While the cinnamon rolls cool, prepare the glaze by mixing all the ingredients into a bowl except for the milk; once the cream cheese is all mixed, slowly add milk until you get a runny glaze consistency; pour glaze over cinnamon rolls immediately Rolling tips: When we say ‘tightly roll the dough’, we mean it! Otherwise cutting it will be hell if it’s just a little loose (speaking from experience).

2. Mix butter and brown sugar, and then whisk in egg yolk and vanilla 3. Stir in flour, salt and baking soda 4. Stir in chocolate chips 5. Divide between two eight-ounce ramekins and press gently to fill the bottom of each 6. Bake for 20 minutes and then allow to cool for a few minutes 7. Grab a spoon and dig in!

Make it better: Add a scoop of vanilla icecream, ready two spoons (or one, we’re not judging), sit on a comfortable couch (preferably on a rainy day), put on a movie (an old favourite will do), pull on some socks (optional), and dig in!

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biG appetite

Yi’s Nation A sandwich bar taking up a tiny space in Kiulap in a blink-andyou’ll-miss-it location (right next to Easy Way), if you didn’t know of the affiliation between Yi’s Nation and Jing Chew (Brunei’s most beloved purveyor of buns and Roti Kahwin) you might have guessed it from the bread they use, which are freshly baked, soft, fluffy and the star of the sandwich (no disrespect to the fillings – good bread is the star of any sandwich).

Fluffy is a theme in their ‘Phase 1 Early Birds Menu’, with a selection of sandwiches toting a heretofore unknown need for fluffy eggs in your sandwich. We had a Le_Fluffy Angus (soft scrambled eggs with chives paired with cheddar cheese and ground angus beef), Le_Fluffy Chick (chicken patty served with soft scrambled eggs with chives, garlicky mayo and topped with cheese), Le_Fluffy Ebi Ohayo (soft scrambled eggs with shrimps in wasabi mayo), and a New York Sunrise (seared sirloin steak with house-made bell pepper salsa, roasted tomatoes and lettuce).

You get to choose the bread for each sandwich: a choice of burger, yellow or white loaf (rest easy, there are no wrong choices here).

The pandemic means less dine-ins and more takeaways, but these are sandwiches you can easily enjoy packed up and eaten at an office desk. It was just Phase 1 of their soft opening at the time we were there, and until things go back to normal, we’ll be patiently waiting for the time when we can try out more from Yi’s Nation.

•• #21, Blk C, Grd Flr, Hau Man Yong Complex, Kiulap Open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays: 10am–6pm (or until sold out) IG: @yisnation 36

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

eat , drink Glow Café

Brunei

Seri Damai Restaurant The moment we approached the latest Seri Damai branch in Delima, it was love at first sniff. Naan breads are fried at a grilling station right outside the front door, and the smell should be enough to entice any wandering curryhead to enter. And enter we did, into an interior that manages to toe the line between gaudy and stylish – apt for a Pakistani restaurant of this price range.

Inside the smell transformed into fragrant spicy aromas. We ordered Chicken Butter Masala (which came with a slab of butter melting in the steel bowl), Prawn Karahi (spicy and delicious), Palak Paneer (topped with crumbs of cottage cheese), all of which we ate with plain biryani and an extra side dish of Raitha.

We also ordered a set each of plain and Garlic Naan, and a set of skewered Beef Sheek Kebab. The menu

has a vast selection of food which might be daunting for a newcomer to this type of cuisine but they have set menus for you to try a little bit of everything, which we would highly recommend.

These days, restaurants in Brunei gain recognition through one or all of the following virtues: for being trendy, for being an international franchise, for selling premium coffee, or most importantly, for serving great food. Seri Damai is only guilty of the last virtue, and that should be more than enough. Plus, as is important for any Indian/Pakistani restaurant of worth, it smells great!

•• #15, Blk B, EDR No 44896, Lot 53068, Kg Delima Satu, Berakas Open daily: 9am-10pm Tel: 673-2337722 FB: Seri Damai Restaurant & Catering IG: @seridamairestaurant

As if our leisurely trips to Rimba Garden Central (RGC) to feed our ever-growing house plant obsession could get any better, Glow Café opened its doors to the public in June. Heralding the new movement of eateries around Brunei who practice and preach the goodness of a greener diet, its location in the heart of RGC feeds into the ultimate farm-to-table concept in their menu.

With the greens on their menu stemming directly from RGC’s nursery, customers can now taste the organic and pesticidefree produce on display in the form of artisan baked goods and sandwiches. It’s hard to resist the call of their pulled beef sandwiches and loaded pastries, but drop by on their collaborative “Pop Up Sundays” for more options on juicy steaks and burgers available every other week. We especially recommend a rose latte or a green apple ginger lemon juice to accompany you on your plant searching strolls.

We can’t say much about their menu just yet as they change it up daily but from whatever they come up with, trust that it’ll get you glowing with wellbeing from the inside out. Also, they have WiFi!

••

Rimba Garden Central, Spg 127, Jln Kpg Rimba, Gadong, BSB Open daily: 11am-6pm Tel: 673-7225848 (available on Whatsapp) IG: @glowcafebn

!

S U T I S I V ME

CO

retail space 4, ground floor bibd connects, taman mahkota jubli emas

operating hours Mon - Thurs 10.30am - 1.30pm 3.30pm - 7.00pm Fri - Sat 3.30pm - 8.00pm Sun

DELIVERY CONTACT

8226099

8.00am - 1.30pm 3.30pm - 7.00pm

casbahlondonkebab

casbahlondonkebab

www.casbahlondonkebab.com

biG appetite NON HALAL

La Boca Ria La Boca means “the mouth” in Spanish, and Ria means “happy” in Malay, and La Boca Ria is a pun on the names of a famous market, in Barcelona, Spain - La Boqueria.

Located on Jalan Tabuan in Kuching, the café was designed with the idea of recreating the old market’s ambience within its humble little space. The colourful, rustic decor, along with the scents drifting out from the kitchen, accompanied by the strains of Spanish guitar music offers the perfect atmosphere to enjoy a Spanish breakfast, tapas, and platters.

All the products at La Boca Ria are imported from Spain, as the owner runs a business importing Spanish foods, and the quality of ingredients used in all their dishes is top-notch.

While the meat and cheese platters at La Boca Ria are highly recommended, coffee aficionados will be pleased to know that the award-winning Spanish coffee brand, Dromedario, is available here, along with some of the best tea and chocolates from Spain.

••

43-B, Jln Tabuan, 93100 Kuching Open: 9am-4pm (closed Tuesdays) Tel: 6082-296230 FB: La Boca Ria

eat , drink PORKF R E E

Moongrind Kingdom A small café located on Jalan Brighton, Miri, Moongrind Kingdom serves “coffee, cakes, waffles and whatever”.

Along with a good helping of quirky humour, the café also serves a good selection of cakes and waffles. There are also savoury items on the menu for those who are seeking something more substantial, such as simple staples like spaghetti bolognese, or the Korean style chicken waffle for those who find it hard to choose between a meal and dessert.

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Sarawak Irene Chan

While their cheesecakes and brownies are excellent, don’t forget to try their Kek Batik Indulgence - the café’s decadent version of the local delight is topped with a layer cream cheese and a sumptuous Milo Ganache.

•• Grd Flr, Lot 273, Jln Brighton, 98000, Miri Open daily: 9am-9.30pm IG: @moon.kingdom_ FB: @moongrindkingdomcafe

biG appetite

Horizons Sky & Cigar Lounge There’s just something about being on a rooftop bar that puts you in a good mood.

Perhaps it’s the relaxing tropical breeze or the breath-taking bird’s-eye view it offers.

Perhaps it’s the selection of good-tasting house music served to your ears by an inhouse DJ. Or perhaps, it’s all of the above.

Horizons offers an unmatched panoramic view of Kota Kinabalu, surrounded by the majestic South China Sea. The sky bar is able to accommodate approximately 123 people at a time.

While the offerings may be seasonal, Horizons entices its patrons with fusion favourites, ranging from light finger foods and salads to a wholesome plate of seafood

pasta. And in case you fancy feeling a little extravagant - not unlike Johnny Fontane in The Godfather - you can also find a good selection of fine cigars here.

Horizons’ romantic and hip ambience makes for a great Instagrammable spot for a hangout session. Ladies night happens every Wednesday from 7pm onwards, so gather your chicas for a fun night on the rooftop! A smart casual dress code applies.

••

Lvl 12, The Pacific Sutera Hotel, 88100 Kota Kinabalu Open: 5pm-1am (closed Mondays) Tel: 6088-303240 W: www.suteraharbour.com

eat , drink

NON HALAL

The Hive Gastrobar

Nothing is more comforting than delicious, familiar foods that you grew up eating. For The Hive Gastrobar, the establishment focuses on ‘feel good’ gastronomical delicacies that taste just like the meals you have at home.

The Hive offers a wide selection of dishes, ranging from salads and soups to main courses in both western and local delights.

Must-tries include the signature Uncle Chew’s Nasi Lemak Siew Yuk (nasi lemak with roasted pork and Hokkien-style preserved vegetable) and Auntie Amy’s Fried Chicken with Curry Leaves.

Both dishes incorporate homemade recipes that are developed by the owner’s parents, combining Malaysian favourites with a local Chinese flair.

Other popular dishes are the Cheese-baked Rice and Shrimp Aglio Olio. If you are a parent with young children, let them try the Tiny Meatball Pasta - a tomato-based pasta served with homemade meatballs - wholesome and yummy even for the pickiest-eating child!

If you are, otherwise, just looking for a place to have a drink or two and chill with friends, the relaxing ambience at The Hive would allow you to feel right at home. On days when there is work to be done and you don’t feel like working from home or the office, why not take your laptop here and get inspired by the invigorating smell of coffee and good food?

This cosy establishment is able to accommodate up to 40 people at a time and is open for event bookings or private functions. You can also have their meals delivered to you via Foodpanda and GrabFood.

•• Wisma Langat Lot A-G2, 88300 Kota Kinabalu Open: 10am-10pm (closed Tuesdays) Tel: 6012-8101134 IG: @thehivegastrobar FB: @thehivekotakinabalu

S a b a h Nova Renata

Al Fresco Restaurant When in Kota Kinabalu, the one thing you need to make time to do is to enjoy the glorious sunset. This, of course, is even better with drinks and grub in hand.

Enter Al Fresco Restaurant at the Magellan Sutera Resort - an outdoor dining establishment that offers the best of Kota Kinabalu: breath-taking sunset views and delectable fusion food.

The restaurant offers a wide range of east meets west varieties, such as pizza fresh from the oven, pasta, kebabs and even the ever-popular Ayam Penyet (Indonesian fried chicken dish, served with sambal and tempeh).

Previously well known for their weekend BBQ Buffet Dinner, the buffet has been temporarily suspended to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Adjacent to the dining area is the Sunset Bar that is open daily from 10am to 12 midnight. Perched on high stools overlooking the

sea, Sunset Bar offers a more casual vibe - perfect for weekends with friends or a romantic date night.

Al Fresco can accommodate up to 166 people at one time, and offers a family-friendly setting with a homely vibe that makes a great venue for special private occasions.

••

Lvl 1, The Magellan Sutera Resort, 1 Sutera Harbour Boulevard, 88100 Kota Kinabalu Open daily: 6.30pm-10pm Tel: 6088-318888 W: www.suteraharbour.com/ magellan-sutera-resort/dining/ al-fresco FB: @suteraharbour IG: @suteraofficial

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biG listings

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.

Thien Thien Restaurant Purveyors of arguably the best Nasi Ayam in town 10 Grd Flr Mas Panchawarna Complex (673 2222435) – call for other branches OUR PICKS RANGING FROM QUICK & EASY MEALS TO LOBSTER & CAVIAR, THESE ARE OUR FAVOURITE HAUNTS AROUND TOWN!

Ximply Chriz Café Divine desserts, great coffee and scrumptious meals 8 Blk A Regent Square, Kiulap (673 2234918)

Amulya This North Indian restaurant serves our favourite briyani in town.

Grd Flr Jln Setia Square Berakas, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2339230)

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

Chop Jing Chew Freshly made Roti Kahwin perfectly paired with a teh tarik 10 Spg 5 Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 2424132)

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

Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant Arabic cuisine at its finest #1A&1B Heng Thai Property Centre Spg 22 Jln Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 2450009) – call for other branches Restoran Makan & Soto Rosmini Our favourite soto hangout 1 Spg 15, Jln Gadong (673 8719946) Mei Kong Coffee Shop A trip to Brunei isn’t complete without sampling their famous kolo mee 108 Jln Pemancha, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2240688) Kaizen Sushi served fresh on your table plus a variety of other Japanese cuisine Yayasan Complex Waterfront Side, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2226336) – call for other branches Pondok Sari Wangi Restaurant Serving the best of Indonesian cuisine 12-13 1st Flr Blk A Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2445043) – call for other branches 40

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

All Seasons Restaurant 17 1st Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2338068) Aminah Arif 2 & 3 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2236198) – Call for other branches Aneka Rasa Blk A #16 & 17 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 (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) Eco Dermaga Kafé 2 Building, Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 7295999) 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 #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 Kitaro #2 Yong Siong Hai Building, Gadong (673 7323377 | 2457373) La Mee #1B & 1c Grd Flr Spg 411-12, 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) MyTown Eating House Grd Flr The Crown Princess Complex, Jalan Tutong (673 2241880) Nyonya 3 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbollah, Gadong (673 2447090) Old Time Kopitiam G2 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Ibrahim, Kg Menglait (673 244 282) 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) 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)

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY Casbah London Kebab Pick lamb, chicken, beef or fish and have it dressed and wrapped your way – tikka, kebab, doner or shawarma style! A quick and deliciously meaty meal for hungry diners on the go.

OPEN DAILY; #G2a Grd Flr Times Square Complex, KG JAYA SETIA (673 2343001) (Times Square Branch) or #204 Spg 210 Kg Lambak, JLN BERAKAS (673 8803183) – Call for other branches

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Despite new coffee shops popping up around town, the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf undoubtedly remains the most popular purveyor of caffeine in Brunei with 12 branches throughout the country.

This global coffee chain continues to brew their specialty coffee and their ever-popular Ice-Blended coffee drinks for the masses.

OPEN DAILY 8am-11pm; G26 Grd Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Jln Jaya Setia, BERAKAS (673 2337358) – call for other branches

Riwaz A contemporary Indian restaurant that serves up traditional Indian cuisine with a modern twist!

OPEN 6.30pm – 10.30pm (closed Mondays); Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 2244272 ext 8873)

Tasek Brasserie A perfect spot to dine with family and friends in the heart of the city, Tasek Brasserie provides casual dining in a relaxed atmosphere.

Customers can enjoy light snacks and a cool mocktail while lounging at the outdoor pool, or dine on the variety of cuisine from their ala carte menu or sumptuous buffets.

OPEN DAILY 6am-6pm; Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 2244272)

biG listings

Soto Pabo #9A Spg 222, Kg Pintu Malim (673 8686388) 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. Sugar ‘n’ Spice Unit B1, Grd Flr, Purnama Complex, Kiulap (673 2332493 / 8810493) Amsarra Shawarma Grd Flr Block A, 1Riverside, Jalan Gadong (673 7318545) Armash Restaurant No 5, Grd Flr, Bangunan Tian & Chuan, Kg. Kiulap (673 2672574) – Call for other branches Bombay Palace Restaurant #9 Grd & 1st Flr Blk B Bgn Pg Mainuddin & Anak2, Batu Bersurat (673 2427313) 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) 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) Saffron Restaurant 8 Blk C Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2235888)

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

OTTO TAKEAWAY Bright red double doors lead the way into Otto Takeaway, which, by the way, is not just a takeaway joint. If you’ve ever been to SAMO Furniture, the antique shop that once occupied the same space, then you might have a rough idea of what you’ll find going in.

Sure enough, we’ve got a fantastic mixture of vintage and eclectic furniture in a very retrocool interior that fits perfectly into this little hipster eatery section of Kiulap.

What SAMO didn’t have but what Otto very much does, is some pretty good food. They’ve gotten their donuts pitch-perfect with their fluff and glazing, and they also have a selection of pastries and gelato desserts.

Their bestseller isn’t a dessert, however, but their pulled beef sandwiches. Made with beef smoked in selected wood chips for eight hours and sandwiched in between homemade buns with caramelised onions and coleslaw, this is the real deal right here. #27, Grd Flr, Blk D, Bgn Lim Eng Ming, Kg Kiulap, BSB Tel: 673-8772262 IG: @ottotakeaway

Buccaneer Steak House 92-93 (B) 94 Grd Flr Jln McKerron, Kuala Belait (673 33 0406) Charcoal BBQ & Grill Restaurant Grd Flr Le Gallery Suites Hotel, Jln Tutong (673 2221171) – Call for other branches Cheezbox Café External Café, Ramp A, The Mall, Gadong (673 2425506) Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2232368) – Call for other branches De’ Olde Cottage 2 Grd Flr Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2426982) – Call for other branches Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 223 1777) – Call for other branches Fratini’s Restaurant #1 Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 2451200) – Call for other branches Home Kitchen

by Tree-Bit Café D8 & D9 Lot 11620 Grd Flr Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 2429366)

Sameer Restaurant & Catering G1 Grd Flr Sg Akar Sentral, Berakas (673 2336613) Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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biG listings

HAN’S COFFEE SHOP It’s always a happy day for us Bandar folk when out-of-district eateries bring their hometown tastes into our corner of the country. Han’s Coffee Shop has been gracing early morning and teatime taste buds since the 60s and is responsible for many fond childhood memories of loading up on their hearty dishes after a fulfilling road trip. And now with the recent opening of their Bandar branch, the authentic flavours of Kuala Belait are now within a drive’s reach. For

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new visitors, a taste of their legendary Kueh Tiaw or old school sandwiches cannot be missed.

And for returning customers… hurrah for us!

16, Grd Flr, Spg 440, Blk B, Bangunan Ben Kassim dan Hajah Zaliha, Jln Muara, Sg Tilong, BSB (next to the German Shop) Tel: 673-2341716 / 673-7190185 (Whatsapp) IG: @hanscoffeeshop FB: Han’s Coffee Shop

biG listings

SUGAR N CRUMBS We don’t judge our delectable desserts by their packaging but it definitely doesn’t hurt either when they come looking like perfection.

The first thing we noticed about local e-bakery, Sugar N Crumbs, were their heavenly premium pralines - and rightfully so! These curated beauties are painstakingly hand-painted one by one and are almost too good to eat (keyword: almost!).

But let’s not stop there, her specialty brownies and luscious cakes and cookies are also an absolute win for dessertobsessed mankind. And if you’re wondering if you can have these gorgeous goodies catered to you on your big day, you absolutely can!.

IG: @sugar.n.crumbs E: sugarncrumbsbn@ gmail.com

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY THE EMPIRE BRUNEI

Atrium Café The Atrium Café is located on level 3 of the main Atrium building, nestled amidst The Empire’s signature grand marble columns and offering a spectacular view of the sea. Buffet breakfast and á la carte lunch are available from Monday to Friday, offering a variety of international and local cuisine.

OPEN 6.30am-10.30am (buffet breakfast) / 11.30am-3pm (à la carte lunch) / 2pm-4pm (à la carte lunch – on Fridays only)

Lobby Lounge The perfect place for casual or formal get-togethers or just to enjoy a cup of tea – the Lobby Lounge offers a selection of refreshments throughout the day and their popular traditional English High Tea in the afternoons.

OPEN DAILY 8am-10pm / 2pm-6pm (Daily Afternoon Tea)

Pantai Restaurant Offering semi buffet meals combined with daily specials, the elegant Pantai Restaurant offers a Daily Asian buffet dinner from 6pm to 9pm with a wide variety of tantalising options to choose from, or enjoy a midday meal with the family at their popular Weekend Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

OPEN 6.30pm-10pm (closed Thursdays) / 11am3pm (Weekend Brunch)

Pool Deck Located at the Beachfront on Level 1, enjoy the breeze from the beachside while you sip on cool beverages and enjoy light snacks in view of the swimming pool.

OPEN DAILY 7am-9pm

Spaghettini Fine dining at its best, this restaurant offers authentic Italian and contemporary Mediterranean cuisine in divine settings, with a Daily Mediterranean à la carte dinner from 6pm to 10pm. A private room is available upon request for special occasions.

OPEN DAILY 6am-6pm Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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biG listings Kitchen of Jasmine

by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 8997333) Magherita Pizzeria #5 Blk A Scout Complex Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 8688884) Pastamania G9A & G10A, Grd Flr, Times Square Shopping Centre, Spg 13-29, Jln Berakas ‘A’ (673 2338061) – Call for other branches Pepper Lunch Brunei C9/10 Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2253000) PEZZO Grd Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2440068 | 7182323)

COFFEE & CAFES GOURMET, PREMIUM-GRADE, SPECIALTY COFFEE – THIS LIST ACCOMMODATES THE BEST OF THE BURGEONING LOCAL COFFEE INDUSTRY. Balkony #10 Block C Shakirin Complex Kiulap (673 2230191) 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)

TIEN SING VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT Bloom Cafe by Mr Baker Grd Flr Block A 1Riverside, Jalan Gadong (673 8768770) Brew Café & Bakery #47 Grd Flr Blk C Gadong Central, Menglait (673 2427554) Caffé Verve #6A Spg 68, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 8757382) The Collective Wildflower Café Grd Flr Royal Brunei Recreational Club (RBRC), BSB

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

Chocolate Origin Grd Flr Block B, 1Riverside, Jalan Gadong (673 2221865)

RMS Diner A5 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 3347455)

E.A.T. Bakery Grd Flr Blk B, Little Soho, Spg 73-5-8, Jln Batu Bersurat, Kg Pengkalan Gadong (673 8664608)

RBC Lifestyle Cafe Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2220815) Rovansil Restaurant #36-38 1st Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2337129) Red Canopy Café #5 Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2453878) Ricardo’s #19 Jerudong Park Food Court Phase 2, Kg Jerudong (673 7276455) – WA only 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) Wing-It #16 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 7224999)

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Vegetarian and veganfriendly dishes have been making their rounds on the Bruneian culinary scene for a while now but sometimes it’s great to go back to basics. Tien Sing Vegetarian Restaurant has been a leading source of tasty vegetarian dishes for the past two decades and knows a thing or two about cooking up a delicious meat-free storm in their kitchen. Out of their extensive menu (they even have an exciting “economy rice” selection prepared fresh everyday), we especially recommend trying out their variety of buttermilk mushroom dishes. Same familiar taste, but even better (and healthier)!

21, Grd Flr, Bangunan Haji Hassan Abdullah II Menglait (same block as Le Apple Bakery), BSB Tel: 673-2454988 / 6738235454 (Whatsapp) IG: @tiengsing FB: @tiensing.bn

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

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY

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) Geo Eats No. 13, Spg 381, Kg Jerudong (673 8271381) Gloria Jean’s Coffee G17 Citis Square, Berakas (673 2338452)

Zen Pavilion Located just beyond Pantai Restaurant on Level 1, Zen Pavilion offers customers an exclusive dining experience, watching chefs prepare excellent dishes on the teppanyaki grill with flare and offering some of the most authentic Japanese cuisine.

Daily à la carte dinner is available.

OPEN 6pm-9pm (closed Thursdays) – advance booking is required

Zest A stylish café located at the Atrium on Level 5, enjoy a hot beverage with a selection of pastries, cakes, savoury treats, confectionary and chocolates, made fresh daily with the finest quality ingredients.

OPEN DAILY 24 hours (midnight-6am for Empire Hotel residents only)

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) It’s a Grind Coffeehouse 1, Grd Floor, Bgn AlWarasah, Muara Town (673 2772424) – call for other branches Kapra Coffee #26 Grd Flr Blk C Spg 440, Jln Muara (673 2345656) Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17 Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 8997333) Ner Dee Café #F11 1st Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 7331783) Peppermint Café #209B, 2nd Flr, Wisma Jaya, Jln Pemancha, BSB, BS8811 (673 8622848) Piccolo Café #11 Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2241558) Rack & Brew #9 Blk H 1st & 2nd Flr Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 7299668)

The Krema Coffee #D31 Lim Eng Ming Complex Blk D, Kg Kiulap (673 8973600)

GO GREEN HEALTHY AND VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY OPTIONS

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

Brunei Detox Bar 9 Grd Flr, Abdul Razak Complex, BE3519

t-Lounge by Dilmah 1st Flr Blk B Little Soho, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 2456128)

Mituo Vegetarian Restaurant #11 Block B Grd Floor PAP Norain Complex, Batu Satu (673 2222821)

Sweet As Sara Unit 1, Grd Flr, Blk A, Spg 150, Wisma PH Apong, Kiulap (673 8889169) DIVINE DINING EXQUISITE MEALS IN BEAUTIFUL SETTINGS – PERFECT FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS Atrium Café The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 418888) Dynasty Restaurant Grd Flr Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 2430185) The Horizons Seafood Restaurant Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2233400)

Pureland Vegetarian Restaurant #15 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Awg Ahmad bin Hassan & Anak-anak, Kiulap (673 2236503) The Healthy Habit Blk A, Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap BE1518 (673 2231030) TienSing Vegetarian & Catering Restaurant 21-22 Bangunan Hj Hassan II, Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 2454988) QUICK EATS FAST AND DELICIOUS MEALS FOR THOSE ON THE GO

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

Burgers & Grills F20, Jln Tengah Bangunan, Bowling Alley Seria, Kpg Pekan Seria (673 3221434)

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

Chickilicious Unit 20, Grd Flr, Blk B, Spg 150, Regent Square, Kiulap (673 823 7518)

Lobby Lounge The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 2418888) Pantai Restaurant The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 2418888) Savy’s Brasserie 204 Lvl 2 Mabohai Shopping Complex, Mabohai (673 2240829) Senja Restaurant 8&9 Grd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 2235313) Spaghettini The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 2418888)

Wayback Burgers Unit B10-11 Setia Kenangan II Spg 150 Kiulap (673 2236882) NON-HALAL OPTIONS Danes Café #102, Bgn Batu Bersurat, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 2428914) 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

My Fried Chicken Grd Flr, Freshco Food Junction, Times Square, Kg Jaya Setia Nasi Katok Mama Express No 3 Blk A Grd Flr Kompleks Madang, Madang (673 8641681) Pan & Wok #28A Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2342836) RBC Express Fast Food #1 Grd Flr Blk A, Bangunan Hj Matussin, Kg Kiulap (673 2237253)

Tarindak d’Polo Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Jerudong (673 2612500) Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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biG listings

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) BORNEO WILD TREASURE Lot 27-0 Blk C Lrg Bundusan Square1D, Kota Kinabalu (6088 732 222) BRASS MONKEY Lot 1-0 Lorong Lintas Plaza 4, Kota Kinabalu (6088 61 543) CAFÉ DE VIE Lot D-0-6 Lorong Metro Town 3, Kota Kinabalu (6088 393 863) CAFÉ HARU 7, Lorong Gunung Juo, Taman Far East Kota Kinabalu (6010 935 1233) CIRCLE RESTAURANT Le Meridien Hotel, Kota Kinabalu (6088 322 222) EMPEROR’S DELIGHT Lot 6 Grd Flr Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6088 288 686) FONG IP CAFÉ Lot 100 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 213 618) GAM TONG HONG KONG RECIPE Lot G-823 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 833) GRANDCHAMPS CAVE & SHOP Unit S3A, Ground Floor, Block B, The Peak Vista, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 886) HANA JAPANESE RESTAURANT Lot S21&S22 Blk E City Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 538 178) HUT STEAK HOUSE & RESTAURANT 29 Blk E Damai Plaza, Kota Kinabalu (6088 238 558)

KOREAN CLUB RESTAURANT 4 Jln Aru, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 213)

PARTY PLAY 117 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 311 210)

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

PASTA PASTA 108 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6014 371 4665)

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

PEPPERMINT VIETNAMESE CUISINE No. 85 Grd Flr Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6012 802 4582)

MAI YAI THAI ORCHID RESTAURANT Lot 13 KK Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu (6088 234 841)

PORT VIEW SEAFOOD VILLAGE Lot 18 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 753)

MDM ING FISH NOODLE Lot 21 Towering Koidupan Perdana Jln Tambunan, Penampang (6016 831 8726)

PUSAS THE SMOKEHOUSE Ground Floor, S6, Jalan Signal Hill The Peak Vista, Kota Kinabalu (6088 299 199)

MR HO’S FINE FOODS L-72-G Grd Flr Blk L KK Times Square Phase 1, Kota Kinabalu (6088 222 623)

RESTAURANT BABA & NYONYA RECIPE Blk E Grd Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6016 810 8206)

NAGASAKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT No 19 Grd Flr Bangunan Harrison Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 216 623) NAM CHAI RESTAURANT BAH KUT TEH 10 Blk D Bdr Nam Tung, Sandakan (6089 612 603) NAN YANG CHIC KUT TEH Grd Flr Lot 47 Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6016 833 5722) NATURAL KITCHEN Lot No B10 & B11, Suria Sabah Shoppin Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 487 180) NISHIKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT Shop 4 Grd Flr 63 Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu (6088 230 582)

JOTHY’S FISH HEAD CURRY & BANANA LEAF Blk 1 Lot G9 Api Api Centre, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 595)

OCTOBER COFFEE HOUSE Blk B The Peak Vista Lorong Puncak 1 Tjg Lipat, Kota Kinabalu (6010 346 954)

KIRISHIMA JAPANESE RESTAURANT Cititel Express No 1 Jln Singgah Mata 1 Asia City, Kota Kinabalu (6088 217 868)

OPEN KITCHEN Grd Flr, Unit 8, Blk 1, Metro Town, 88300, Kota Kinabalu (6088 254 161)

KOHINOOR NORTH INDIAN RESTAURANT Lot 4 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 235 160) 46

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

PANCAKE HOUSE Concourse Flr 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 110) Lot G94-94A Karamunsing Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 319 168)

RESTORAN MAKANAN SEDAP No 1-0-1 Blk B Jln Kolam Centre Phase 2 Jln Lintas, Kota Kinabalu (6088 247 459) SAILORS Lot 36 1st Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6088 731 960) SAKURA JAPANESE RESTAURANT G-23A & G-25, Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu (6088 273 604) SANTOLA CAFÉ Lot 14 Blk B Damai Point, Kota Kinabalu (6088 260 188) SENG HING RESTAURANT Ruang Sinsugan 2, Kota Kinabalu (6088 211 594) SEREMBAN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Lot 126 Blk O Plaza Permai, Kota Kinabalu (6088 484 922) SUANG TAIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Lot 12 Blk A Grd Flr SEDCO Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 223 080)

SUPUL KOREAN BBQ RESTAURANT Lot S-1-8 1st Flr City Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 844) TOSCANI’S Lot 14 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 242 879) THE B.E.A.N CAFÉ Lot 8-1, Lido Plaza, Jalan Nosoob, Penampang (6088 703 884) Café with a sofa lounge serving coffee and drinks, sandwiches, toasts, waffles, and desserts THE B SIDE Lot 21, Ground Floor, Lido Plaza, Jalan Nosoob Penampang (6088 715 453) – Hipster café offering all-day dining and specialty coffees VINO VINO BISTRO Unit J-57, 1st Flr, KK Times Square, 88100, Kota Kinabalu (6088 486 363) WAH SAN RESTAURANT D2-G Blk 17 Jln Pryer, Sandakan (6089 212 626) YAMAGOYA RAMEN Lot 109 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 253 701) YOSHIMI JAPANESE RESTAURANT Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 388) YU KEE BAK KUT TEH 74, Jln Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 192)

EAT (SARAWAK)

BEEI JING RESTAURANT SDN BHD 157 Jln Kg Nyabor, Sibu (6084 330 955)

DYNASTY CHINESE ESTAURANT Oil Town Comm Complex, Miri (6085 424 000)

BISMI RESTAURANT 27 Jln Sommerville, Bintulu (6086 331 835)

EARTHLINGS COFFEE WORKSHOP Coffee shop, roaster, academy Lot 45, Grd Flr, No. 1, CityONE Megamall, Jln Song

BITES BY THE BATIK 38 Jln Pandungan, Kuching (6082 422 845) BLA BLA BLA 27, Jln Tabuan, 93000, Kuching (6082 2330944) –

EAST COURT CHICKEN RICE 867 Jln Club SAman (6083 326 818)

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

EDEN EVERISE Wisma Nation Horizon, Block C, Kuching (6016 888 4522)

BOARDRIDERS CAFÉ Plaza Merdeka Jln Pearl, Kuching (6082 237 526)

ESCOBAR SF3 Damai Cenral Pantai Damai Santubong, Kuching (6014 288 1160)

BOULEVARD RESTAURANT 2228 Jln Saberkas, Lutong (6085 653 175)

FAC BRAVO RESTAURANT 7778 Jln Sultan Iskandar, Bintulu (6086 316 920)

BUENAS FILIPINO LECHON & RESTAURANT 329 Jln Tj Batu, Bintulu (6086 310 860)

FARLEY RESTAURANT 1721 Jln Salim, Sibu (6019 816 3052)

CAFÉ CAFÉ AT ORIGINAL CARWASH Low 211-214, Section 9, KTLD, Rubber Rd, Kuching (6082 256 396) CAFÉ MIN XIN Lot 1126-27 Riam Comm Centre, Miri (6085 628 839)

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

CAPITAL RESTAURANT 86 Jln Keppel, Bintulu (6086 331 160)

ABSOLUTE TRIBAL RESTAURANT Hills Shopping Mall, Kuching (6082 237 468)

CARVERY RESTAURANT Jln Abell, Kuching (6082 239 449)

ALFIAN RESTAURANT 52 Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 215) ALL JOY CAFÉ 8-1 Jln Khoo Hun Yeang, Kuching (6082 243 535)

CASABELLA MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT Crown Square, Kuching (6082 346 612) CHEF AT HOME Lorong Green 1 Blk 10, Kuching (6016 858 5159)

APOLLO SEAFOOD CENTRE 4 Jln Yu Seng Selatan, Miri (6085 420 813)

CHUAN HONG RESTAURANT 123 Jln Council SAman (6083 322 466)

APPLE RESTAURANT 78 Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi, Bintulu (6086 333 377)

CROWN DYNASTY RESTAURANT Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Bintulu (6086 335 908)

AROMA CAFÉ 126 Jln Tabuan, Kuching (6082 417 163) ASIAN EXPRESS RESTAURANT G40 The Spring, Kuching (6082 414 088) BEE HIONG RESTAURANT CAFÉ 157G Jln Muhibbah, Lawas (6085 285 137)

CUPPA-KAP COFFEE Jln Song, Kuching (6019 8869636) DA MI XIANG GU TOU BAO RESTAURANT Tabuan Hts Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 458 952)

FEAST & FURIOUS CAFÉ 244, Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman (6016 2620916) FISHERMAN RESTAURANT 4 Jln Chew Geok Lin, Sibu (6084 316 888) FRATINI’S RESTAURANT 2512 Jln Boulevard 3, Miri (6085 431 115) FU LAI SIANG RESTAURANT 108 Jln Pekan Bt Niah, Bt Niah (6085 737 168) GOLDEN CITY RESTAURANT 87, Jln Ong Chu Seng, Saratok (6083 436 139) HIGHLANDS SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 298 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 318 828) HOCK CHU LEU RESTAURANT 28 Jln Tukang Besi, Sibu (6084 316 524) IMPERIAL RESTAURANT Grd Floor, Imperial Hotel, Lot 827, Jalan Pos 98000 MIRI (6085 431 888) IMPERIAL DUCK RESTAURANT 313 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 336 313) JAMES BROOKE BISTRO & CAFÉ Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman 93100 Kuching (6082 412 210) JUBILEE RESTAURANT 49G Jln India, Kuching (6082 245 626) KHAN’S BILAL RESTAURANT 229-G Jln Maju, Miri (6085 418 440)

biG listings KIM BAY HK MACAU RESTAURANT Boulevard Shopping Mall Jln Datuk Tawi, Kuching (6082 239 308)

WOO!

KOREANA RESTAURANT 10002 Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6082 575 072) KUCHING NOODLE PORRIDGE HOUSE 115-1 Wisma Saberkas, Kuching (6082 426 005) L.L. BANANA LEAF 7G Lorong Rubber 1 Jln Rubber, Kuching (6082 239 404) LI GARDEN RESTAURANT Hock Lee Centre, Kuching (6082 340 785) LIM HOCK ANN 96 1 Jln Kg Kuntal, Kuching (6082 846 533) LOK THIAN RESTAURANT 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 3313 310) LU LAI VEGETARIAN 3641, Lrg 2 Off Jln Rock, Kuching (6082 242 863) LUCKY RESTAURANT 65C G Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 562) LYN’S THANDOORI RESTAURANT 7 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 234 934) MENAWAN RESTAURANT Grd Floor, Imperial Palace HotelLot 1120 Blk 7 Jalan Sehati MCLD 98000 MIRI (6085 432 299) MANGO TREE RESTAURANT Jalan Crookshank, Kuching (6082 235 353) MAP RESTAURANT Bang Terminal, Kuching (6082 459 087) MARCO POLO RESTAURANT 116A BDA Shahida, Bintulu (6086 332 458) MEDAN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 56, Jln Mdn Setiaraja, Mukah (6084 874 145) MERRY RESTAURANT 187 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 240 118) METRO CAFÉ 781 Jln Bangkita, Limbang (6085 215 488) MIN HUA (89) RESTAURANT G 13 Jln Bintang Utara, Bintangor (6084 693 240)

MOMOYAMA Wisma Phoenix, Kuching (6082 420 561) MY LITTLE KITCHEN 56, Upper China Street, D’tea Pavilion, Friendship Park, Jln Song, Kuching (6016 858 6669) NAM HOI RESTAURANT 110 Jln Penrissen Bt 7, Kuching (6082 612 379) ORION TROPICAL Jln Merpati, Miri (6085 417 417) PADUNGAN RESTAURANT 268 Jln Tunku Abd Rahman, Kuching (6082 233 417) PATZ DAYAK HOME COOK SPECIAL New Full 3 Foodcourt, Stutong (next to Giant Hypermart, Tabuan Jaya) (6016 864 4763) PIN PIN CAFÉ 18 Jln Krokong Bau (6082 763 486) PINANG NYONYA 18, Grd Flr, 2nd Precinct, Jln Setia Raja 93450, Kuching ( 6082 459 162) POPULAR CORNER SEAFOODS RESTAURANT Bda Shahida Commercial Centre, Bintulu (6086 319 688) PORTICO 17A Lorong Park Lane, Kuching (6019 819 8046) POT & GRILL RESTAURANT 9 Jln Tun Abd Rahman Yaakub, Kuching (6082 425 525) REJANG RESTAURANT 6 Lrg Lanang 2 Sibu (6016 860 2636) ROBATA YAKI 493 Jln Rambutan, Kuching (6082 235 372)

It’s all easy breezy at Woo!, with an airy ambience helped by the tall windows that peek at a green foliage. The interior is all about the minimalist aesthetic, and honestly too little can be just the right amount for a place like Woo!, because you don’t need the distraction, not when you’re here for the food.

It’s a casual eatery that serves specialty coffee and a western menu with an Asian twist, and there’s enough diversity here that you won’t get bored with your first trip. You’ll find Indian Butter Chicken on the menu and then just as quickly find Beef Brisket Taco on the next page, and then you’ll be considering Shell Pasta and maybe Watermelon Salad to go with it.

The awesomeness continues into dessert options that range from a Bloody Cheesecake (served with beetroot caramel and crunchy honey comb) to a classic Apple Crumble Cake.

Coffee and tea choices are standard, but we would urge you to take a sip of their signature cold brew (especially on a hot day).

SAJIAN WARISAN RESTAURANT 537 Jln Gartak, Miri (6085 429 911) SALLEH’S CORNER CAFÉ RPR Phase 2 Shoplot Jln Astana Petra Jaya, Kuching (6012 807 8033) TOPSPOT BUKIT MATA SEAFOOD CENTRE Jln Padungan, Bukit Mata, Kuching (6019 889 9838)

SEA VIEW RESTAURANT G Pusat Tmn SDagang, Bintulu (6086 334 929) SEVENTY2 RESTAURANT 894 Jln Permaisuri, Miri (6085 366 318) SHABU-KUN RESTAURANT 253 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 317 311) SHERATON RESTAURANT 37 Psn Brooke, Sibu (6084 336 341) SIN LUNG SHENG FU TIAO QIANG RESTAURANT 10788 Jln Simpang Tiga, Kuching (6082 231 260) SIN SOON CHIN RESTAURANT 2415 Jln Boulevard 2, Miri (6012 808 5456) SRI MENANTI COFFEE HOUSE RESTAURANT 15 Lrg Pahlawan 7b, Sibu (6084 218 196) SURABAYA RESTAURANT 288 Jln Bendahara, Miri (6085 411 239) SUSHI KIN The Spring, Kuching (6082 245 355) SUSHI TIE-TTS Wisma Sanyan, Sibu (6084 342 875)

TEN-ICHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 331 310) TEO SEAFOOD 787 Jln Kg Buntal, Kuching (6082 846 532) THE BANQUET 4560 Jln Datuk Tawi Sli, Kuching (6082 451 414) THE DYAK RESTAURANT Sublot 29, Grd Flr, Panovel Commercial Complex, Jln Simpang Tiga, 93300, Kuching (6016 868 0071) THE JUNK Western fare 80, Jln Wayang, 93000, Kuching (6082 259 450)

TRIBAL STOVE Blk H Jln Borneo Taman Sri, Kuching (6082 234 873) WANG HIN RESTAURANT 1 Soon Hup Comm Complex, Miri (6085 413 129) WARUNG NASI KUNING Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6016 809 1286) WEI THIAN RESTAURANT Golden Square, Siburan (6082 862 968) XIN TSUI SIANG KITCHEN Wisma Nation Horizon Blk D, Kuching (6082 414 616) YUN YAN RESTAURANT Stutong Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 366 115) ZHUN SAN YEN VEGETARIAN FOOD Lot 165 Jln Chan Ann, Kuching (6082 230 068)

TIAN XIAN RELISH RESTAURANT 313 Jln Melaka Raya, MC (606 288 1120) TONG LOK RESTAURANT 1367 Jln Buangsiol, Limbang (6085 216 188) TONG XIN COURT RESTAURANT 151 Lrg Datuk Abang Abd Rahim 5a, Kuching (6082 482 252)

7, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu, 88000 Kota Kinabalu Tel: 6088-534453 IG: @eatplaywoo

ROCK ROAD SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 1230 Jln Rock Bt 2½ , Kuching (6082 241 575)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

47

biG essentials

BRUNEI BANKS Banks in Brunei Darussalam are usually open Mondays to Fridays, 9am - 4pm and on Saturdays, 9am 11am. 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.

$

48

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.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

TELECOMMUNICATIONS FRIDAY PRAYER 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.

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) 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).

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

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.

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.

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.

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

biG essentials

Tourist Information Centre

SABAH Banks

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.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

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.

50

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.

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.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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.

Buses

Money Changer

$

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.

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.

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.

Taxis

Taxi fare from Kuching Tourist airport to the city cost about Information Centre 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!

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

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Place of Interest

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Tamu Selera (Hawker Stalls)

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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Gadong Night Market (Pasar Pelbagai Barangan Gadong)

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The Mall, Gadong

Shop Bank/ ATM/ Money Changer

The Centrepoint Jaya Hotel Hypermart

Clinic

NG I ME

Police Station

GA

SUN

g

Centrepoint

don

Public Transport

BAN HALIMGUNAN SAADIAATUL H

Jala n

Pas ar G a S im pa

ng

37

Guan Electrical

Hua Ho

SUN

GAI

KIULAP

MAP

GAI N AYA KED

wg an A

d

hma

Hj A

gun

Ban

Qlap Complex Bangunan Awg Hj Matussin Jalan

Berib

i

n Ko

Bangunan Haji Abdul Rahman

Berib i

Clinic Public Transport

SUN

Jalan

Bangunan Lim Eng Ming

Jala

Police Station

Baiduri Bank

Tian & Chuan Building

g Yon lap Man x Kiu Hau Comple mersial

BIBD Bank

Hotel

Seri Kiulap Complex

ing

Kampung Kiulap

ngan Build

IGS College

Setia Kena

Bank/ ATM/ Money Changer

mplex

Kiulap Plaza Hotel

Wisma Pengiran Hj Apong

Shop

Restaurant

Seri Qlap Mall

Yong Clinic

lap

Regent Square

IT

Shakirin Co

Post Office

Fitness Zone

GLA

mersial Kiu n Ko Jala

Setia Kenangan 2 Complex

Palm Garden Hotel

MEN

Bangunan Begawan Pehin Dato Hj Mohd Yusof

Urairah Complex Post Office

Lee Clinic

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Movies With A Before Sunrise (1995) Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Céline (Julie Delpy) meet on a train and decide to spend time together in Vienna before heading back to their respective countries the next morning. Meaningful conversation, meandering strolls, stolen looks, and the kindling of romantic love ensues.

Wild (2014) Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Based on the true memoirs of the real Cheryl Strayed (played by Reese Witherspoon), who decides to hike the almost 1,800 kilometres of the Pacific Crest Trail in the United States while mourning the loss of her mother.

WHY WE RECOMMEND IT: Cheryl’s three-month journey is sometimes brutal and treacherous, and oftentimes arduous and unrelenting.

But it isn’t without its victories. As a viewer, you can take this journey with her without worrying about losing your toenails, overheating in the desert sun or trekking through dangerous icy paths. You can just sit back and enjoy the various West Coast vistas and celebrate as Cheryl overcomes her physical and emotional obstacles.

FUN FACT: The screenplay was written by British author Nick Hornby, who is known for his bestselling books ‘About a Boy’ and ‘High Fidelity’.

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WHY WE RECOMMEND IT: This Richard Linklater classic is a film where the city itself feels like one of the main characters.

A timeless city filled with architectural landmarks, Vienna offers the perfect backdrop for two people roaming its stoney streets and falling in love that will surely have you giggling into your fist like a schoolgirl (or maybe that’s just me). Some might find the premise of this film a bit too unbelievable, but as someone who has fallen in love while exploring the city of Vienna, I can attest to its possibility!

FUN FACT: Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy subsequently became co-writers for the movie’s two sequels: ‘Before Sunset’ and ‘Before Midnight’.

View Dian Idris

As we find ourselves more homebound than ever, watching movies can be the perfect outlet to satisfy just a small percentage of that feeling of escapism and adventure our restless spirits crave. Some movies can take us to places we’ve been but miss, some we can only dream of visiting, while some we might not even want to go to (looks way too cold) but is sublimely beautiful to watch on the big screen.

Check out these movies and take a journey with compelling characters down cobblestoned streets, up desert paths, across icy ridges, through canals and busy pavements, and into your wanderlust hearts.

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The Revenant (2015) Directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu

Only You (1994) Directed by Norman Jewison WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Faith (Marisa Tomei) travels through Italy with her best friend (Bonnie Hunt) to look for the man she believes is her destiny. Instead she meets Robert Downey Jr. WHY WE RECOMMEND IT: Seriously? This film is adorable.

When Robert Downey Jr.’s character buys Faith a pair of shoes that fits perfectly and goes flawlessly with her planned outfit, you just know they’re destined to be together.

But shoe porn aside, it’s really the journey Faith makes through Venice, Rome and Positano that has a real lasting effect on your memory. Though released in 1994, today I still have this urge to recreate her trip almost step-bystep, from the drive through the Italian countryside to the little nod to the classic Audrey Hepburn film Roman Holiday, and lastly arriving in Positano and soaking in the incomparable view of the Amalfi Coast.

WHAT’S IT ABOUT: The film follows Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio), a guide in 1823 American Midwest who, after a rather grizzly (pun intended) bear attack left him near death followed by a tragic loss, he makes his way through rugged and frozen landscapes in his fight to survive.

WHY WE RECOMMEND IT: You won’t find any blue screen effects or artificial lighting in this movie - what you see is what you get! And what we get is at all times majestic, panoramic and breathtaking. This creates a film watching experience like no other where you can almost feel the bitter cold with the added bonus of not catching frostbite. So from the comfort of your couch - turn up your air-conditioning, grab a cosy throw (I recommend one resembling bear fur) and enjoy this thrilling tale set against this wild and spectacular backdrop.

FUN FACT: Despite the movie being based in the Midwest, it was mainly shot in Canada with some additional scenes filmed in Montana and Argentina, and all in natural light!

FUN FACT: Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr. and their undeniable chemistry sizzled up the big screen again in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films, with Marisa Tomei in the role as Spiderman’s ridiculously attractive Aunt May.

The Beach (2000) Directed by Danny Boyle WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a young American looking for adventure while travelling through Thailand. Together with a French couple, they seek out a pristine and secret beach on a restricted island. Unfortunately, once they reach the coveted land, they find themselves in the middle of a very complicated situation.

WHY WE RECOMMEND IT: Sometimes we long for places a little closer to home. While we may have our own beautiful beaches on Borneo, the sandy shores from other countries represent something else entirely freedom, escapism, and VACATION. None more true than what we see in The Beach (made more bittersweet by the fact that it has since became a hotspot for overcrowding and pollution). So put on ‘Pure Shores’ by All Saints, order some pad thai, go back to the 2000s with a babyfaced Leo when everything was just a little bit better.

FUN FACT: The Maya Bay aka the actual beach from the film is currently closed indefinitely to recover from over-tourism in the area.

The Austrian city of Salzburg

Vicky Christina Barcelona (2008) Directed by Woody Allen WHAT’S IT ABOUT: Vicky (Rebecca Hall) and Christina (Scarlett Johansson) are two Americans spending the summer in Barcelona. They meet enigmatic artist Juan Antonio (Javier Bardem) who is having problems with his ex-wife Maria Elena (Penelope Cruz). Complicated relationships ensue.

WHY WE RECOMMEND IT: This is a beautiful film filled with beautiful people, but what stands out above all else is the rich Catalan art and architecture that plays such a central part in th character’s journeys to discovering themselves. You’ll get to see Antoni Gaudi’s famous works such as Basilica De La Segrada Familia, La Pedrera, and Park Güell, but also the Asturias cities of Oviedo and Avilés located in the North of Spain, which boasts a dreamy coastline, ornate cultural sites, and a Spanish Alpine backdrop.

FUN FACT: Woody Allen wrote the role of Juan Antonio with Javier Bardem in mind.

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MOVIES TO LOOK OUT FOR THIS QUARTER While COVID-19 is still wrecking release dates of our most anticipated films, we’re hopeful that soon the cinemas will safely open and everyone will be able to continue indulging in popcorn and the big screen. As of the time this was written, these were the updated release dates worldwide. They are subject to change.

SEPT 4

TENET

Starring Janelle Monáe, Kiersey Clemons and Jena Malone

MONSTER HUNTER

Starring Milla Jovovich, Tony Jaa and Ron Perlman

Milla Jovovich stars in another video game adaptation, again fighting off monsters, and again directed by husband Paul W.S. Anderson.

When Lt. Artemis (Jovovich) and her soldiers are transported from our world to another world, the usually unflappable lieutenant is shocked when she realises this world is inhabited with deadly monsters.

JUL

MAY 20

THE KING’S MAN

THE SPONGEBOB MOVIE: SPONGE ON THE RUN

The latest in the hugely popular Kingsman franchise, this is a prequel to the glorious action and humour packed affairs that had Eggsy and Sir Galahad teaming up to save the world. We go back in time now and in this film, a collection of history’s tyrants and criminal masterminds team up to plot a war, leaving it to the King’s Man to stop them.

A storyline that happens before the events of the television show we all know and love, Spongebob is still a kid sponge when he goes on a trip to Kamp Koral to make new friends. But his beloved pet snail Gary has been snail-napped, and there’s nothing for Spongebob to do but to take his new best friend Patrick on a rescue mission.

Starring Ralph Fiennes, Harris Dickinson and Gemma Arterton

17

The next Christopher Nolan directed film is always hotly anticipated – even if we’re not quite sure what it’s about. What we do know: in the world of international espionage, a secret agent (John David Washington) is tasked to stop World War Three. Before you lump it in the spy thriller genre, there is also a theme about time travel, or ‘time inversion’ in this case, and before you call it sci-fi, also remember that Nolan adheres to no genre. Like he did for the audience with Inception, walk into the cinema without a clue, and prepare to get your mind blown.

SEPT

TENET

18

Starring Janelle Monáe, Kiersey Clemons and Jena Malone

Starring Tom Kenny, Bill Fagerbakke and Clancy Brown

A QUIET PLACE: PART II Starring Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds and Cillian Murphy

When A Quiet Place first played and taught us all what happened when a woman gave birth in a world seized by creatures that hunt by sound, we were all impressed with the plucky surviving family that lived a post-apocalyptic life in near silence. The Abbott family returns again, sans self-sacrificing dad but with the addition of a newborn, and this time the sound-seeking monsters aren’t the only danger to them, but other terrors lurking beyond the sand path.

The next Christopher Nolan directed film is always hotly anticipated – even if we’re not quite sure what it’s about. What we do know: in the world of international espionage, a secret agent is tasked to stop World War Three. Before you lump it in the spy thriller genre, there is also a theme about time travel, or ‘time inversion’ in this case, and before you call it sci-fi, also remember that Nolan adheres to no genre.

MULAN

JUL

Starring Yifei Liu, Donnie Yen and Jet Li

24

A live-action film based on Disney’s Mulan, this is about a young Chinese maiden who disguises herself as a male warrior to take the place of her father and join a war.

SEPT 4

THE MALL CINEPLEX @ LEVEL 3, THE MALL, GADONG 2422455 www.themallcineplex.com TIMES CINEPLEX@EMPIRE, EMPIRE HOTEL AND COUNTRY CLUB, JERUDONG 2610001 www.timescineplex.com/ empirePSBdualplex TIMES SQUARE CINEPLEX @ 4TH FLOOR, TIMES SQUARE SHOPPING CENTRE, BERAKAS 2341122 www.timescineplex.com THE ARENA CINEPLEX @ SERI QLAP MALL, KG KIULAP 2230138 www. arena-cineplex.com ONE CINEPLEX @ ONE CITY SHOPPING CENTRE Tel: 2338250 onecineplex.com AMAN HILLS CINEPLEX @ AMAN SHOPPING CENTRE Tel: 2335000 onecineplex.com TUTONG TIMES CINEPLEX @ BERJAYA COMPLEX, TUTONG 4220422 PSB DUALPLEX, SERIA @ F19, JALAN TENGAH, SERIA 3221437 www.facebook.com/PSBdualplex

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