Jul // Sep 2018
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Editor’s Note T
aking that first step to exercise is always a challenge especially if you, like us in the BiG office, have been in a food coma since Hari Raya last month. But fitness is a fickle beast - once you pass that first hurdle and take that step on the road to fitness, you need drive and commitment to stay on your journey. But it doesn’t have to be as arduous as it sounds! Exercise can be challenging but it can also be fun, and if you disagree, then you just haven’t found the right workout for you yet. So what are we to do but to offer our readers with some motivation to get you on your way? We begin by getting inspired with two fitness instructors’ journey in Sabah, we get into it with some fast facts about some of Brunei’s key fitness figures, and offer you a few alternative ways of getting fit in Sarawak that doesn’t require sweating away in a conventional gym. In BiG Scoop – we set our sights on three new gyms that have opened in Brunei within the past year, who are already making waves in the local community with their individual approach on getting their clients fit. We even get a little contrary and talk about how video gaming (in moderation) can be good for your mental health. But it’s not all about healthy living this issue. Pauline Chan took a trip to Kuala Lumpur to witness the unveiling of Laneige’s new doubleaction makeup product – the Layering Cover Cushion – set to make a huge mark with our Korean obsessed public. And I was very fortunate to take a trip to South Korea to celebrate Cuckoo International’s 40th Anniversary, and meet dreamy Korean superstar Lee Seung-Gi – their newest global ambassador – much to the envy of friends, families and colleagues. Let me take this opportunity to thank both Laneige and Cuckoo Brunei for taking us on these unforgettable trips, and to wish Cuckoo International a Happy 40th Anniversary! Speaking of anniversaries – BiG has achieved its own little milestone this issue: this marks our 50th issue since the first copy of BiG magazine hit the shelves in January 2006, and let us tell you, what a ride it’s been! So happy anniversary to us – and we hope you’ve enjoyed reading BiG magazine as much as we’ve enjoyed publishing it.
biG stands for Borneo Insider’s Guide. It is a quarterly magazine that aims to entertain and share with readers the best there is to offer on lifestyle and travel in enigmatic Borneo and beyond. It is distributed at travel fairs, international events and Brunei high commissions abroad. biG is available at the arrival hall of Brunei International Airport, Brunei Tourism offices, Royal Brunei Airlines business class, all hotels, popular food and beverage outlets and foreign missions in Brunei. biG has a distribution network in the neighbouring states through the Sabah and Sarawak Tourism Boards as well as via prominent hotels in the respective capitals. Besides being Brunei’s very own publication for bridging its residents with a myriad of commercial and cultural offerings within the country, each issue also serves as the world’s window into the rich tapestry of Borneo’s life and culture. www.borneoinsidersguide.com 4
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
@b.i.g.magazine BIG: Borneo Insider’s Guide @bigborneo Publisher
CHMP MEDIA Editor-At-Large
Wan Zainal Shazali Editor
Intan Abu Daniel Assistant Editor
Sheyenne Siah Designer
Novri Rinaldi Editorial
Pauline Chan Irene Chan Pamela Fletcher Sales & Marketing
Bina Chauhan 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.
events TO look
out FOR
this quarter
Jul 19-28 The Borneo Cultural Festival Sarawak Held in the Sibu Town Square, the Borneo Cultural Festival is a week-long affair filled with all sorts of song, dance and delicious traditional delicacies stemming from an array of cultural backgrounds within Borneo. Promoting “beauty in ethnic diversity”, the open-to-public event is organised by the Sibu Municipal Council and is considered to be one of the town’s biggest tourism events.
Jul 15
Bario Food and Cultural Festival Sarawak
His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei’s 72nd Birthday Brunei
Visitors and citizens of the sultanate gather in the capital to rejoice in yet another blessed year of His Majesty’s good health. With parades, performances and a festive cheer in the air, the Sultan’s month-long birthday celebration is an occasion that is widely anticipated and celebrated by all.
Sep 28-29 Kuching Waterfront Jazz Festival (KWJF) SARAWAK
Jul
26-28
Due to its remote location high up in the Kelabit highlands, the Bario Food and Cultural Festival (also known as “Pesta Nukenen”) is an immensely unique experience that celebrates the precious indigenous heritage of the Kelabit people. Accessible only by flight on an 18-seater plane or a 14-hour drive on dirt roads, the festival promises visitors an enlightening look into their traditions and customs as well as a possible sighting of the Milky Way on a clear night.
Aug 21
Sibu International BASE Jump 2018 Sarawak Since 2009, Sibu International BASE Jump has been a hub for adrenaline chasers the world over as they savour the thrilling drop from the top of Wisma Sanyan—Sarawak’s tallest building at 126 meters high—unto Sibu Town Square. This annual event is organised by the Sibu Tourism Task Force Group.
Hari Raya Aidiladha
Riding on the success of last year’s event, the KWJF is set to bring the best tunes to you once again this September. As the official venue and organiser, the Grand Margherita Hotel welcomes jazz aficionados to a dazzling outdoor affair overlooking the Sarawak River and invites them to dance to the beat of 17 performing groups hailing from seven regional and international countries.
Brunei, Sabah, Sarawak This Islamic holiday is celebrated by Muslims worldwide to mark the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. The day is spent performing prayers and the sacrifice of cattle, which is donated to the less fortunate and shared amongst neighbours, friends and relatives.
Hari Merdeka Malaysia 2018 Sabah, Sarawak
Aug 31
Celebrated nationwide, Hari Merdeka or Independence Day, sees Malaysians far and wide taking pride in yet another year since the Declaration of Independence was officiated. The national holiday, which will be the 61st of its kind, is incomplete without the seven proclamations of “Merdeka!” (“Independence!”) by patriotic Malaysians.
www.bruneitourism.travel | www.sabahtourism.com | www.sarawaktourism.com
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Contents biG scoop Presenting our scoop on things to love and desire
biG buzz We put our ears up and find out what’s buzzing in town
biG essentials Helpful tips for visitors arriving on our shores
biG feature Stories so unique it can only be from Borneo
biG getaway Near or far, we go on holiday for your benefit
biG navigator Find your bearings with our walking maps
biG focus See who and what we’re pointing our cameras at
biG appetite We try the food so you can follow suit
biG screen See what’s playing in the cinemas around town
biG trail Follow our trails and discover what is on the island
biG listings Where to eat, drink and chill? Come with us and see
biG scoop
Listen Up! Audiophiles, listen up: AV Electronics is treading sonically spectacular territory with the new range of listening gear they have featured over at their Sound Experience Centre at the Airport Mall. Right now you’ve got over 20 choices of well-named brands for ear porn ranging from cheap to mid-range to heaven-in-yourears, so you can choose from a selection of audiophile favourites that include 1More, Teac, Marshall, Final, Sennheiser, Stax, Astell & Kern, Audeze, and KEF, and more – most of which have never been featured in any retail outlet in Brunei before. A cosy listening zone is there for the casual listener to try out listening gear such
as earbuds, earphones, DACS and headphones, with a helpful assistant to guide you through the process. But if you’re in it to trip the audio fantastic then visit the back room where a snazzy set up consisting of high-end headphones, amplifiers and speakers are ready for your listening pleasure. Expect more brands to feature in AV Electronics and look out for audio-themed workshops they’ll be conducting in the months to come! •• AV Electronics @ Airport Mall 1st Floor, Airport Mall, Berakas Tel: 673-2237650 FB: @av.electronics IG: @av.electronics
BIBD NEXGEN Opens ‘Infinity of Possibilities’ 10
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Visit the BIBD NexGen branch located at the ground floor of The Mall, Gadong, and chances are you’ll meet a little white robot by the name of Arif. Give the guy a high-five, make him do a little dance, take a selfie with him, and then walk away because chances are you’ll be equally impressed with the other new advancements going on at BIBD’s new branch. An ‘Infinity of Possibilities’ has been promised, and you’ve never seen the future for digital banking as clearly as in the BIBD NEXGEN branch. Positioning themselves as the pioneers of digital change in the sultanate and taking large steps toward a paperless society, BIBD opened the NEXGEN branch – a futuristic banking concept that is dedicated wholly to digital
banking and featuring the latest innovations in artificial intelligence (hello, Arif!), virtual reality, data analytics and customer insights in the hopes of bringing convenience and connectivity to its customers through speedy, mobile-driven transactions. The opening of this digital branch also aims to provide financial inclusion for the unbanked and underserved segments. The first of any digital branch in Brunei, BIBD NEXGEN has already wowed its customers with its innovation and will likely pave the way for more digital branches in the future. Highfive, Arif! •• Connect with BIBD on their website, www.bibd.com.bn, or visit the BIBD NEXGEN branch at: #G33, Grd Flr, The Mall, Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong
biG scoop
Bento Buddy! One of the newest and most exciting food-catering business on the block, Buddy Bento is run by CrossFitters with a passion for cooking, with the aim to fill a niche for healthy food in Kuching. Many feel that healthy eating is synonymous with bland and boring; Buddy Bento is on a mission to change that perception. The dishes offered are thoughtfully designed with health in mind and stylishly presented to dispel the idea that a healthy diet is uninteresting. By doing so, they hope to encourage eating well as a sustainable practice. Their two signature dishes include the Nasi Lemak Wannabe and the Peanut Butter Curry Lamb, which offer a healthier iteration of Malaysian favourites. •• IG: @buddy_bento
Nine Huts on a Hill Treat yourself to a relaxing eco getaway at 9 Huts on a Hill resort in Bak Bak Beach, Kudat. Located about three hours’ drive north of Kota Kinabalu, the nine huts in this resort are built using locallysourced materials and designed in traditional Rungus architecture. Albeit an eco establishment, be assured that 9 Huts does not skimp on comfort: each of the huts is fully furnished with cosy
mattresses and air conditioning. One of the best features of the huts would be their large windows that open up to overlook the breathtaking beach view! Keeping with the zen theme of the resort, you can also sign up for a yoga class or get a full-body massage. •• 9 Huts on a Hill, Bak Bak Road, 89050 Kudat, Sabah Tel: 6012-7881095 / 7881032 W: www.9huts.com
Bundle of Joy Pre-loved/vintage markets, otherwise known as bundle markets, have become increasingly popular in Sabah. In the past, bundle markets were outdoor markets held usually in conjunction with the weekly tamu market. Today, bundle shops have mushroomed all over the city, offering pre-owned goods that are usually imported from countries like South Korea, Japan and the United States. A trip to a bundle market usually promises plenty of surprises, as you may stumble upon branded wellworn vintage items, such as leather motor jackets, leather bags and shoes. However, not all items sold in bundle shops are pre-loved. Other shops, like Lizzy’s Boutique also sell old stock or reject items that have otherwise never been worn. •• Lot 14-0, Ground Floor, Lorong Lintas Plaza 2, Jalan Lintas, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tel: 6088-210412 IG: @lizzy.lintas
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biG scoop
The Refinery Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), one of the fastest growing combat sports in Brunei and the world, is a martial art form that focuses on ground fighting (grappling) and controlling opponents through the use of techniques that force them to submit. It also promotes the art of self-defense against stronger opponents. In March 2018, the sultanate welcomed the hottest newcomer into the local BJJ scene: The Refinery - run by a husband and wife team and coached by Nobel Lee. Located in Kuala Belait, The Refinery also acts as an exclusive personal training studio, with a focus on helping clients achieve their goals and enabling them to create positive lifestyle changes. The Refinery is open to people of all ages and levels, with a kids program that allows young ones to start as early as 5 years of age. Their Fundamentals class is there for those with little to no experience in martial arts, and there are also classes exclusively for women only. To join, arrive 15 minutes before a class starts to register. The Refinery offers uniform rental and a oneweek free trial for BJJ beginners. •• #B5 1st Flr Bgn Maju, Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (above Zaika) FB: @therefinerybn IG: @therefinerybn
Aqua Cycle You think cycling on the road is hard, try it underwater. Water spinning is a low impact cardio workout that tones your body, is easy on the joints and therefore reduces chances of getting an injury, improves cardiovascular endurance, and best of all, it burns those calories. Paddling against the current also acts as a natural massage for the legs, improving your skin and eliminating cellulite. It’s also fun as heck. Splashing into the scene with this new sport is Aqua Cycle. Only opened in September last year and managed by Karyn Ho, the organisation has six trainers ready to
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get you fit underwater. Other forms of training include upper body conditioning and other types of exercises to make it more fun and challenging. •• Tel: 673-8902121 FB: @aquacyclebn IG: @aquacyclebn
The Cardio Club Specialising in water rowing programmes, strength and conditioning, this newcomer opened in April 2018 and is helmed by Ilyas Rory Teo and Dennis Lim – two coaches with vast experience in coaching Crossfit. The two bring a very rounded approach to running classes at The Cardio Club, with the understanding that at the end of the day, the aim is to preserve physical longevity. “This is why believe our water rowing programme is beneficial because not only is rowing itself low-impact, meaning a lower risk of injury, but the programmes ensure a total body workout,” Rory Teo explained. Currently two types of programmes are available: the Cardio Cruise for the beginners, and the Cardio Burn. While it ensures a total body workout, movements are gentle on joints, and so far feedback has been extremely positive. To join a class, do the following steps: - Go to https://thecardio.club - Register yourself at MY ACCOUNT - Purchase credit at BUY CREDITS - Go to SCHEDULE and use the credits to book a class Walk-ins are also allowed but as class slots are limited, it would be advisable to go to their website as above, or call in advance. •• #3 1st Flr Bgn Dar Dafinah, Spg 68, Jln Batu Bersurat, Gadong FB: The Cardio Club Brunei IG: @thecardioclub W: https://thecardio.club Email: itsfun@thecardio.club
biG feature
Athletic Aspirations While we don’t believe that all fitness regimes were created equal, we do know that sometimes it takes a little motivation to get you started on your path toward a healthy and fit lifestyle – and who better to turn to than the local heroes in our own backyard? Read on to learn a few fast facts about an MMA coach, an adventure sports athlete, a Crossfit trainer and an Olympian sprinter to inspire you to achieve your own athletic aspirations. Intan Abu Daniel
Ahmed Faez “Eazy” Anuar Who? 32-year old amateur boxer and mixed martial arts (MMA) coach Ahmad Faez “Eazy” Anuar has been taking the MMA mantel for Brunei before we even knew it was a thing. With the help of his wife and his cousin, Eazy runs Khalifa MMA - a home for the local MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), boxing and Muay Thai community. Competitive spirit: Eazy has competed internationally for the past nine years. In 2017, he lost in the quarter-finals of the IBJJF World Master in Las Vegas - still a huge victory for the team: “Being Bruneian with a small population, placing top eight in the world stage
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is something I’m happy about.” About MMA in Brunei: “Growth and improvement is inevitable. With more and more athletes improving from experience, good coaching staff and solid training camps, the only way from here is up and beyond. In a small community, it’s imperative for us to stay united and cross train. We are all we got. Iron sharpens iron!” Diet: During competition season and training camps, Eazy’s complex diet consists of high fat breakfasts, protein and complex carb lunches, and supplements for dinner. He
snacks on dates, nuts and protein shakes, and drinks lots of water. Supplementary exercises: “Good cardio is always a bonus. Off-season, hit the weights and get stronger. Otherwise, a million rounds of sparring would be the best catalyst to get you ready for a fight.” Words of advice: “Drop the ego outside the door. Be open to learning and be open to losing. Once that’s left behind, the speed and level of progression will be amazingly fast.” FB: Khalifa Mixed Martial Arts IG: @khalifamixedmartialarts
biG feature
Nadzri Harif Who? 30-year old Nadzri is a CrossFit L1 Trainer at Reebok CrossFit 673, and when he isn’t doing that, he’s a Radio DJ at Kristal FM, an Under Armour Brand Ambassador, half-magician, half mentalist, host, and a professed crazy cat dad. Competitive spirit: “My first CrossFit competiton was ‘SIN CITY’ in Singapore. I was so unprepared for this competition, the movements were new, the loads were heavy, but I was curious. It was strugglesville at the time, but an experience I would never forget.” Nadzri has been competing at Crossfit competitions annually since. Why should you join CrossFit? “If you’re looking for a measurable, wellrounded program that allows you to get out there and do things that you want to do, whether it’s completing a marathon or running around with your kids – you should definitely give it a shot. We’ve got certified trainers and a
CrossFit Games athlete with tons of experience to help you on your fitness journey.” Diet: With a macros that he ensures to fulfill daily, Nadzri’s meals consist of: a breakfast of eggs, deli meats and toast; protein, vegetables and white rice for lunch; and the same for dinner. He also snacks on oats and protein, psyllium husk for fibre, fruits, yoghurt and protein shakes. Supplementary exercises: “The programming at Reebok CrossFit 673 is well-rounded enough, but when I have downtime during the day, I’ll work on stretches and myofascial work (foam roller, lacrosse ball, etc) to stay loose for the rest of the day or help recover for the next day of training.” Words of advice: “Everyone has this misconception that you need to be fit or strong to join a CrossFit class. Prior to CrossFit, I had never held a barbell before. Be open-minded, reach out to a coach for a free consult, sign up for a Foundations class, and take it all in one step at a time.”
Mohd Fakhri Ismail
www.reebokcrossfit673.com
Liyana Zakaria Who? 27-year old Liyana is Brunei’s first female competitive motocross racer and a mountain biker. Competitive spirit: Liyana has participated in over 10 motocross races and has achieved podium success as a mountain biker in Brunei and beyond. She was crowned overall champion in the 2016 UCMX Race in Johor Bahru, and has become a national voice for the sport by organising local races in Brunei. About the motocross community: Despite the fact that motocross has existed in Brunei for over 25 years, there is a lack of youths in the sport. “A majority of the riders are aged 35 and above,” Liyana explains. “The challenge here is getting the new generation to start.” More motocross events might kickstart a growth in the local motocross
community, and perhaps more motocross racetracks: as of now, there is only one motocross racetrack (in Tutong) in Brunei. Diet: “I’m the type that exercises so I can enjoy good food after! The night before a race, I eat food like pasta and chicken rice and snack on desserts like tarts and doughnuts. On the morning of the race, I eat toasted bread, drink Milo, and eat a Snickers bar to kick-start my race. I also drink a lot of water.” Supplementary exercises: “You need a high level of fitness to excel in these kinds of sports, so you need to do upper body, core workout, and endurance workout.” Words of advice: “Go out, explore more, take risks, overcome your fears, live life to the fullest, and most importantly, have fun!”
Who? 27-year old Md Fakhri is a sprinter, holds the national record in 100m sprinting, took part in the Olympics in Rio in 2016, and is an inspiration to Bruneian athletic youths everywhere. Competitive spirit: The fastest man in the sultanate, Md Fakhri has just finished competing in the national championships, and has his eye on the Asian Games in Jakarta, the Sukan Kebangsaan Brunei Darussalam (SKBD), and on a spot in the 2020 Olympics. About competing in the Olympics: “If there’s anything I learned from my experience is that there are a lot of athletes who work harder than you and you can’t slack around or else you get left behind.” Diet: Md Fakhri eats in preparation of his training, which means a simple breakfast menu like oatmeal, more carb portions and protein and greens for lunch, and a heavy dinner with more protein and carbs to recover from his grueling training sessions. Supplementary exercises: “I do a lot of supplementary exercises, but if I had to choose one, I would suggest corestrengthening exercises.” Words of advice: “Give it time, work hard but smart, listen to your coach, sleep well and maintain a healthy diet. But most importantly, don’t give up. If you fail today, pick yourself up, analyse where you went wrong and try again tomorrow.”
Read up more about our conversations with Eazy, Liyana, Md Fakhri and Nadzri on our website, www.borneoinsidersguide.com.
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biG feature
F it n ess F ig hters The world of fitness is literally a fight - to keep yourself focused, to keep it fresh and above all, to keep your passion burning. In this issue of BiG, we set our sights on two fitness juggernauts and the long journey it has taken for them to get where they are today in Sabah’s still growing fitness industry. Pamela Fletcher
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U ltim ate F ighter Hand to hand combat sport goes way back to ancient civilisation. The Greeks did it, as did the Romans, Chinese, Egyptians, Indians and Japanese just to name a few. Cuts, bruises and probably more serious injuries were not uncommon in these noholds-barred fights of the fittest, and most skillful. Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a combination of combat and
martial arts techniques. Its earliest forms were developed more than 20 years ago but Sabah only got its first taste of it in 2007 when Antonio Battistessa was here on holiday from his native Italy. Antonio was introduced to MMA when he first saw it on Japanese TV in 1997. With no MMA gyms in Italy at the time, he focused on Muay Thai, a sport he grew to love as he started getting more into Southeast Asian combat sports. Repeated
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trips, with a four-year stint in Thailand to train and compete professionally in Muay Thai, would have been the start of a long-term commitment to the sport in the region but the devastating 2004 tsunami sent him back to Italy where he continued his training and began exploring other fight sports like Vale Tudo, a Brazilian combat sport which pits opponents against each other with little to no rules, and Luta Livre, a more sporting version where only grappling techniques are allowed. But Southeast Asia would always be at the back of his mind like a magnet, drawing Antonio back to a place where he would finally settle down with his family in 2014. Married to a Sabahan with two young children, Antonio had already accumulated a wealth of experience in MMA before his 3-month coaching
YKTang Photography
Alric Goh-Shot with Canon EOS
biG feature
Alric Goh-Shot with Canon EOS
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1. Retired MMA fighter Ah
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stint at a local gym while on holiday in 2007, before finally opening up his own gym, Sabah Top Team in 2015. With this fresh new start, Antonio is now focused on training new devotees of mixed martial arts to the highest level. Many local fighters have come from Sabah Top Team and Antonio is confident that they have the calibre to excel in regional and international competitions one day. Antonio’s interest in Vale Tudo and now Luta Livre has evolved into making it more appealing for MMA trainees as the techniques complement MMA fighting. They are effective, simple, sharp and aggressive, and he wants to make it more popular by giving seminars and organising competitions. It has been a long journey for Antonio and his fighting spirit
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is starting to bear fruit as he begins to uncover the hidden talents among the ultimate fighters in Sabah. •• 19 Taman Grand Millennium 89500, Kota Kinabalu Tel: 6010-9800370 FB: @sabahtopteam or Antonio Battistessa
G irl o n F ire Fitness has always been a huge part of Michelle KohOllerenshaw’s life, from her beginnings as a competitive black-belt karateka in her teens to winning gold medals for Malaysia at national and regional karate competitions in her early adulthood and up until today as a personal trainer and fitness coach.
Lee (in white) is Antonio’s assistant in Sabah Top Team 2. Gloria Isabella Hong in action House 3. 14 year-old - the youngest MMA fighter in Sabah 4. Antonio and Ah Lee demonstrate MMA fight techniques 5. Michelle and members of her gym posing for a photo post-workout 6. Dance and sports fitness are the main focus of Michelle’s classes
After hanging up her black belt, a friend encouraged her to do a sports science degree, and as she already had the basics of training as an athlete, all she had to do now was learn the fundamentals of sports performance and behaviour to get a head start in fitness training and coaching. She went to Australia in 1999, came back energised, and from that point on, there was no stopping this pocket dynamite with her highenergy personality and infectious smile in pulling hundreds, if not thousands, to the bright side of fitness fanaticism. Michelle kept her finger on the pulse of every new fitness trend to hit Sabah from Pilates to Zumba, of which she is a certified trainer, to launching her very own brand of fitness
called Fuze Fitness in 2014. Combining her love for dance music, martial arts and fitness conditioning, Fuze Fitness was created to tone and sculpt muscles while moving to some cool beats. Definitely expect some titillating hip swirling but the moves change so quickly, you won’t even realise you’ve half salsa-ed or belly-danced your way through the whole routine. Unsurprisingly, most of Michelle’s Fuze Fitness classes are attended by ladies who, from my observation of one class, have really taken to it with unbridled passion, letting out whoops and lung-bursting shouts as the music crescendos to a fever pitch before slowing down to allow them to catch their breath. Michelle does her part wonderfully to cajole the more bashful ones into moving to the groove but is quick to pick out anyone who is struggling with any part of the routine. “There is a difference between teaching a fitness class where everyone just follows what you do, and teaching a fitness class where you observe and adapt the exercises to suit each individual student’s capability,” stresses Michelle which has compelled her to continuously pursue professional accreditation as a group fitness trainer. With Fuze Fitness taking off to greater heights, Michelle has reached yet another milestone in her career. T30 Fitness Training Ltd, a UK-based fitness training provider, selected Michelle from a pool of candidates in the region to be their Senior Regional Master Trainer for Asia in 2017 to introduce and produce new trainers for their trademark programmes, Fatburn Extreme and GameFIT. It’s still a relatively new outfit but has already spread to 14 countries around the globe, churning out fitness instructors who, like Michelle, thrive on staying in shape. •• #23 Taman Maya Lorong Bunga Tulip 1 Kepayan Ridge 88300, Sabah Tel: 6013-8863102 FB: Michelle Koh Ollerenshaw IG: @michellekohollie W: www.fuze-fitness.com
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Melchizedek Jitam A fixture at Climb Asend, Mel has been coaching climbers for four years. Though having experienced the sport at a young age, Mel only developed a passion for climbing in 2008 after working with an adventure company in Hong Kong. He returned home inspired and became part of the initiative to introduce the sport locally. While his coaching approach can be rigorous, his goodnatured humour keeps climbers motivated through tough training sessions. His climbing-specific training emphasises on functional strength and fitness, which has proven effective: his climbers have gone on to win international competitions.
Radical Fitness Fitness is witnessing a boom in Borneo, but getting into the fit life doesn’t have to mean hours in a conventional gym. Here are some fun alternatives to getting into shape, along with the people who will help you get started.
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Climb Asend The first and only climbing gym in Sarawak, Climb Asend is run by a family of passionate climbers. The facility was conceived with the aim of growing the climbing community in Kuching whilst making it an accessible sport for everyone. The gym features multiple climbing walls and has recently added an auto-belay machine. It is also equipped with training tools such as fingerboards and campus boards to improve performance. Coaching and clinics are available for those who want to improve on their form and technique. •• FB: @ClimbAsend IG: @climbasend
CrossFit Kuching CrossFit is a fitness regime that incorporates exercises from multiple physical disciplines, including gymnastics, weight-lifting, running, rowing, and even calisthenics. With a huge focus on functional movements executed at high intensity, the programme is designed as a preparation for any physical contingency. The camaraderie and competitive nature of CrossFit is a big part of its appeal, attracting many followers over the years from weekend warriors to serious athletes. The fervour for it is such that it has spread globally – even to Kuching, where it was first introduced at Phoenix Gym. Three years later, its popularity led to an expansion into its own facility. •• CrossFit Kuching offers free trial classes every Sunday from 2pm-3pm. FB: @CFKuching IG: @crossfit_kuching
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Yong Ing Hui
Clement Lai One of the most recognisable faces at the CrossFit Kuching box, Clement was a former javelin thrower throughout high-school before moving into mixed martial arts. He eventually joined CrossFit when seeking to improve endurance and explosiveness during sparring and it quickly captivated his passion – it was so constantly challenging in its broad and inclusive workout that it soon became his main focus. Clement’s zeal for fitness exceeds his job scope, frequently seeking out new sources of knowledge and inspiration for his coaching work. His training style is structured and offers a varied programming to equip his trainees with skills that foster safety and functionality in both CrossFit and their everyday lives.
Ing Hui is one of three co-leaders for November Project Malaysia in Miri. The project prides itself on being ‘weather-proof’, and co-leaders are always at the workout locations no matter the weather condition. Ing Hui is as weatherproof as it gets, with a 15-year career as a state and national swimmer, and both the Annapurna Circuit and the Chadar Frozen River Trek on her long list of personal accomplishments. Her sunny personality and boundless energy inspires many a November Project participant to get out of bed with a bounce in their step, despite the early hour.
November Project For those who enjoy a group workout whilst bolstered by a supportive community of friends, November Project might just offer the impetus for sustainable exercising. The ‘November Project’ is a movement that began in Boston by two friends who challenged each other to work out every day in November.
The project went viral and has since spread to 45 cities globally. The November Project is free, held in a public setting, and puts an emphasis on fostering positivity. At meetups friendships are forged and priorities are placed on both mental and physical health. Hugs, smiles and high-fives are liberally dished out at meets,
and the 45-minute high-energy workouts are planned so that each participant has fun. •• November Project workouts are held bi-weekly in Miri; 5.15am on Wednesday, at Bumiko Hill and 5.18am on Friday, at Bulatan Park. FB: @NovemberProjectMAL IG: @novemberprojectmal
Knight Performance Training Centre
Boxing and obstacle course racing are two very different activities which seem like an unlikely pairing. However, these are the two sports at the heart of what Knight Performance Training Centre offers. Stephen, a professional boxer, and Yanti, an obstacle course racer, are both also personal trainers and fitness instructors. Frustrated at the limited amount of resources and low awareness of their respective sports, they decided to start a personal training studio to change that fact. The centre currently provides boxing lessons and courses to improve performance in obstacle racing classes. •• An upcoming Iron Maiden Challenge with a cash prize to be won will be held by the centre in August. Event updates will be posted on their Instagram! IG: @knightptc
Stephen Onn anak Jenggieng (The Borneo Brawler) The Malaysia Golden Glove champion in 2014, Stephen found his calling in boxing after transitioning to the sport from mixed martial arts. However, he soon realised that fighting professionally was not a viable option, given the scarce resources and the underdeveloped boxing community in Malaysia. Going into teaching was his way of contributing back to the boxing community and nurturing talent for the sport he has grown to love, with the hopes of providing a bigger platform for the next generation of fighters to pursue their careers. His boxing classes are very popular, as they are conducted in simple-to-follow stages, and he eschews the use of jargon, opting to make his sessions accessible to all.
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Fitness Figures Check out these bite-sized fitness facts for your entertainment and enlightenment!
28 grams (or 2 tablespoons) of pumpkin seeds sprinkled on your overnight oats, salad or breakfast toast satisfies almost half your daily magnesium and zinc intake. Whether eaten raw, baked, or roasted, pumpkin seeds boast a slew of heart and liver health benefits, making it the perfect on-the-go snack.
385
is the number of extra calories that sleep-deprived people consume compared to those who’ve had a satisfying 7-12 hours of shuteye. If you often find yourself reaching for snacks to keep your tired mind from veering off-track, you’re not imagining it!
1900 is the year women were finally allowed to join the Olympics. With only 22 women out of almost 1000 participants, Swiss athlete Hélène de Pourtalès emerged as the first-ever female Olympic champion in history during a group sailing event at the Paris Olympic games.
12,000 calories is the amount Olympic-swimmer Michael Phelps was reported to have ingested during his training days. However, Phelps debunked the rumours as “physically impossible” stating that at most he consumed 10,000 calories at the peak of his physical growth in order to cater to his body’s requirements and goals.
1924,
½
an hour after eating is the ideal time we should wait before brushing our pearly-whites. While we’ve been told time and time again to brush after every meal, dental experts explain that waiting 30 minutes is better, especially if the food in question contains citric acid as brushing can damage a weakened enamel.
July 4th was a hectic day at Caesar Cardini’s restaurant in Tijuana where his attempts to keep hungry customers at bay resulted in the accidental creation of a salad which, for years to come, would be served and known all around the world as the “Caesar salad”, a core salad dish in any all-rounder menu.
100, 000 is roughly the amount of times the heart of a healthy person beats in a day. However, for very athletic people, it can fall as low as 40 beats per minute–almost half the average rate – as consistent exercise conditions athletes’ hearts to pump more blood, requiring less effort to deliver more oxygen with each beat.
is the number of glasses of water that we have been advised to guzzle down on the daily. However, recent studies conducted by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of USA (PNAS) say that when it becomes physically difficult to swallow that extra gulp of water, the resistance may be our bodies trying to regulate fluid intake. So remember to hydrate but listen to your gullet!
2.5 hours of moderate intensity exercise in a week is enough to improve overall brain and heart health in the long run, whether it’s an intense sweat sesh at the gym or daily 20-minute brisk walks around your neighborhood.
0
is the amount of calories in diet soda. Suspicious of a sweet deal? You have every right to be! While some sodas boast zero calories, these drinks are likely loaded with artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, stevia and saccharin – some of which can be up to 600 times sweeter than normal sugar!
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Anxiety & Depression A study done by East Carolina University suggests that playing 30 minutes of video games per day can treat anxiety and depression at the same level as prescription medication. Of all genres, puzzle games such as Angry Birds and Bejeweled have proven to be most successful.
Memory In 2015, the Journal of Neuroscience conducted a study on video gaming effects on memory, yielding positive results. Those that played the big, complex and colourful game of Super Mario 3D World performed better with memory tasks than those that played something simpler like Angry Birds, which has to do with the enriching 3D virtual environments that provide our brain with meaningful simulation.
About Game On
Is Gaming Good For You? Let’s not get our game controller cables in a twist: we are in no way advocating video gaming as a healthy lifestyle choice. We’re just pointing out that – in moderation – there are some ways in which video games are proven to be good for your mental health. Intrigued? Game on.
Social Benefits There is a great divide of opinions in the world of online gaming, but studies on the Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPG) that had participants from around the world taking part produced positive results. Studies showed that the players created strong and emotional bonds within the game’s interactions, and encouraged teamwork within a fun environment.
A Future for Online Gaming eSports – basically competitive online gaming – is a cultural trend and multimillion-dollar industry that shows no signs of slowing down. Along with helping children develop their puzzle-solving, team work, creative and communicative skills, in some countries there are also talks of encouraging eSports in a controlled school environment to benefit students socially, and to also explore career possibilities that relate to gaming including becoming a developer or a pro-gamer.
Itching to battle it out on a virtual soccer field online? Connect with Game On – an eSports event management company in Brunei with a mission to bring gamers together and introduce the world of eSports to the sultanate, and to establish Brunei as an eSports HUB in ASEAN in the future. Founded by three like-minded gamers, Game On organised the PS4 FIFA 17 Tournament and a series of other tournaments in 2017, and as a part of the Brunei December Festival hosted the Brunei E-Sports Tournament (BEST) which was attended by over 1,500 people. Follow them on Instagram (@gameon.bn) or Facebook (@GameOnBMS) to see what eSports tournaments are happening near you!
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Kiulap Branch - The All-In-One Health Club : +673 223 3338 Serusop Branch - The Women’s Health Club : +673 244 8488
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All Eyes on Mata-Mata
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An area containing schools, supermarkets, shopping complexes, Jalan Inindustrial areas and residential zones make stri Bfor up the perfectd u recipe traffic jam. If you’ve eriabproper i been in Brunei long enough, you’ve undoubtedly been stuck in the famous ‘Mata-Mata’ jam at least once, but if you’re new to Brunei, then welcome to Kg Mata-Mata! But we’re not here to whinge or bemoan our fate, instead, we’re going to point out where you can go in this busy zone if you’re looking to escape the traffic or simply explore this popular area–which happens to be ripe with great food, great shopping, and things to do.
BAJOO Boutique
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B8, C4 & C5, Grd Flr, Warisan Mata-Mata Complex, 673-2455189 butikbajoo.com A boutique and tailoring store, browse from the RTW selections for Malaysian designer brands and Bajoo’s own unique creations, or choose from an array of textiles to custom-make your own outfit. You can also find some adorable choices for children here! Nearby: A selection of clothing 24
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and accessories can be found at Closet Culture at Annajat Complex, and if you’re into socks, you’ll love the quirky choices at Socks Publika in the same building.
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Iskandar Curry House
L1-08, Annajat Complex, 673-8675781 A local favourite that serves up a mean plate of roti canai topped with condiments. The Nasi Lemak is worth a try here too!
Nearby: Go for some
healthy grilled chicken at Ideal Café and Grill, another local favourite located on the same floor. Finish up with a chocolatey dessert over at Chocolate Origin just next door.
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The Belgian Company
1st Flr, Annajat Complex, 673-7329317 Gift your loved ones (or yourself) a fancy box of chocolates that you can choose from an array of exquisite Belgian chocolates!
And since you’re there, why not give their selections of Voda collagen water a try too? Nearby: Juta Jaya Printing Company on the ground floor offers customisable “Foil Hot Stamping” on leather goods – another perfect gift choice!
Reflections Spa Annajat Complex – Penthouse Floor, 673-7292366 / 2233263 reflectionsbrunei.com
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An Aesthetic, Wellness and Beauty
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Spa that takes a holistic approach to rejuvenating your body and mind with a laundry list of treatments by expert therapists. Nearby: Indulge in a
Thai spa experience at Nili Thai Ladies Spa & Beauty Establishment at Warisan Mata-Mata Complex.
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The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
#1 Blk C, Supasave Mata-Mata, 673-2420276 www.coffeebeanbrunei.com You know what to expect from your standard Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, but in this location in Brunei, they also offer a selection of artisanal pizzas. Eat it up there or take it away to nom at home – there will be zero regrets. Nearby: Margherita Pizzeria also has a selection of awesome pizza
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pies, located just a few minutes’ walk away. Fullcan 2nd Flr, Scout Building, 673-2430333
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Enjoy a game of pool or snooker on one of the many tables at Fullcan – one of Brunei’s longeststanding billiards establishments.
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Lifestream Organic
#G.03 Grd Flr, Annajat Complex, 673-2421023 Above and beyond your traditional organic food shop, they also offer natural retreat programmes that include the natural removal of kidney and gallbladder stones, liver detox and juice fasting.
go or eat on the spot. Choose from a selection of traditional offerings such as sandwiches and pastries to unique fare such as onigiri, Sabah Chilli Pan Mee, laksa, and Tteokgalbi Meatballs!
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Durian By Pulp
1st Flr, Annajat Complex Using the king of fruits as the main ingredient, this patisserie offers pastries and desserts baked fresh daily. Nearby: If durian isn’t your thing, head on down to Sococo Coconut Shake for some refreshing coconut ice-cream and shakes!
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Signature Kitchen
A6 B, Grd Flr, Blk A, Scouts Complex 673-7289229
Nearby: Located in the same
unit, Cravings & Beyond offers snack and meal options to grab and
A showroom for your kitchen and wardrobe needs, Signature
1. The Belgian Company 2. Iskandar Curry House 3. Durian by Pulp 4. Bajoo Boutique
Kitchen has a design team ready to create your dream space. Nearby: Jazz up the rest
of the house and go IKEA furniture shopping at Growing Star, located at Warisan Mata-Mata Complex.
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Padi Mas Korean Restaurant
#6 & 7, Blk C, Warisan MataMata Complex, 673-2457644 A non-halal restaurant specialising in delicious Korean barbeque fare at reasonable prices. Nearby: In the same building, Sweet & Savoury Cafe serves up a mean bowl of laksa, while local fare can be found at Mamih restaurant – another Bruneian favourite. Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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Fabulous
This issue marks BiG’s 50th issue, and in celebration of this milestone event, we decided to check out what else is turning 50 this year.
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IMAX If you watched Avengers: Infinity War in IMAX last April, thank Canada for the luxury moviewatching experience. The large-picture format was developed 50 years ago by a Toronto company and the first movie that used this technology was Tiger Child, screened in Japan in 1970.
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The White Album The Beatles released their ninth studio album, The White Album (also known as The Beatles), 50 years ago and earlier this same year, released ‘Hey Jude’.
Fashion designer Calvin Klein was just 25 years old when he opened up his first shop in New York City, called Calvin Klein Limited. A short year later, his clothes would make the cover of Vogue.
Ziploc bags
The resealable bag was actually invented earlier in Japan, but the Dow Chemical Company launched the Ziploc brand 50 years ago. Hard to imagine how people kept sandwiches fresh before then.
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Big Mac
That’s right: McDonald’s signature burger was first served 50 years ago in Pittsburgh at just 49 cents each.
The Man Booker Prize
The Man Booker Prize has awarded one stellar work of fiction annually since it first started in 1968, and in celebration of their 50th anniversary will be launching the Golden Man Booker Prize award: a one-off award that will crown the best work of fiction among the last 51 winners. Previous winners of this prestigious literary award include Iris Murdoch, Arundhati Roy, Yann Martel and Salman Rushdie.
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Calvin Klein
biG special
Intel, one of the world’s computer chip giants, turns 50 in July.
Stanley Kubrick’s sci-fi film is still considered one of the most influential movies of all time, and if you didn’t watch it, you’ll definitely know the theme song, used in the opening and end credits of the film (Richard Strauss’ 1896 symphony Also sprach Zarathustra).
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Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
This sci-fi novel by Philip K. Dick is set in post-apocalyptic San Francisco and follows a bounty hunter named Rick Deckard. If that plot sounds at all familiar to you, it’s because the book was later loosely adapted into a film called ‘Blade Runner’ in 1982 starring Harrison Ford. He reprised this iconic role and starred alongside Ryan Gosling in the sequel ‘Blade Runner 2049’ in 2017.
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2001: A Space Odyssey
The Lifecycle stationary bike Dr. Keene Dimick created the Lifecycle stationary bike in 1968, and this was the first piece of electronic exercise equipment ever invented. The bike would provide users with information such as pulse rate and average calories burned per hour.
L ava L amp
An iconic trend that is associated more with the 1970’s but was actually launched in 1968, and would be regularly seen in living rooms and Austin Powers films years later.
The modern soccer ball The modern soccer ball has 32 panels, 12 black pentagons and 20 white hexagons – and though colours have changed over the years, this is the soccer ball that we have been using for as long as we can remember. 50 years ago, Adidas launched this Telstar design soccer ball. It was first used that same year in the 1968 European Football Championship, and the design was seen on every soccer ball once it became the official ball of the 1970 World Cup in Mexico. Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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A Touch of Gold A well-made face begins with a flawless base, and Laneige’s latest innovation, the Layering Cover Cushion, is designed to give any face a dewy semi-matte finishing as a perfect makeup base. This 2-in-1 cushion foundation, packed in a captivating, shimmering rose gold casing, comes with a concealing base and a layering cushion formulated for superb coverage while preventing the problems of foundation darkening. Pauline Chan 28
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How to get a 5-minute flawless face the Laneige way?
T
he unveiling of Laneige’s latest makeup sensation on March 8 this year at the St Regis Hotel in Kuala Lumpur to international media, created a buzz of excitement and anticipation for this handy double-action makeup product, made for women seeking to emulate the natural K-beauty style, sported by not just the Korean celebrities but also by Korean women everywhere. Renowned Laneige makeup artist, Park Tae Yoon, revealed at the launch that the makeup trend for 2018 is the natural complexion look which he says can easily be achieved with the right product. K-beauty is all about minimal foundation, the result should make one appear to glow from the inside without heavy traces of a makeup product. He explains that extensive research at the Amorepacific laboratories has led to the formulation of the Layering Cover Cushion which is perfect for Asian skins that are constantly under the hot tropical sun. During a demonstration on stage, Park showed the media
the way to achieve the latest trend in makeup in 5 minutes with the Laneige Layering Cover Cushion. The media participants were in for a big treat in the afternoon when everyone was given a makeover using the Layering Cover Cushion followed by a professional photo shoot. The makeover was the perfect gift for all the media personnel who attended the Gala Night in the evening, and it was a night to remember as the Laneige beauty ambassador, Lee Sung Kyoung, who is a beloved actress in her home country of Korea, greeted the crowd, shining in a light shimmering white dress. Young, energetic and talented, Miss Lee personified the ideals of the Laneige brand. She delighted the audience with a chit-chat about her journey with Laneige and while we were not able to take a selfie with her, three lucky winners received Laneige gift bags from the star herself on stage.
• Start with a clean face, use a toner/ skin refiner to wipe all over. • Spread a small amount of moisturizer to help makeup stay on longer. • Tackle yellowish-toned areas with a Laneige Skin Veil, using only the required amount on the needed areas. (Purple Skin Veil will help brighten the face and reduce the need for a lot of foundation) • Whip out the Layering Cover Cushion and do the following 2 steps: 1. Cover any blemishes with the concealer, patting the spots with the velvet tip of the supplied edge puff. The concealer is formulated with Aqua Melting Technology, delivering a soft application on the skin with high coverage. The concealer components also absorbs excess sebum, offering a semi-matte finishing that lasts a long time. 2. Use the Layering cushion as a foundation. It contains Illuminating Jewel Powder made out of fine pearls to give the skin a healthy pink lighting effect. This increases the light reflection rate and brightens the complexion for a rosier, livelier and translucent look. Pat and blend lightly throughout the face with the air puff for an even tone. If necessary, dab concealer over the areas where required again to achieve the perfection you need. The core to a perfect and long-lasting coverage is through the moisture delivered from the Layering Cover Cushion. • Brush the eyebrows with an eyebrow fixer. Apply eye-shadow above the eye lid and below the eyes. This will give a natural look around the peepers. • Finally, brush on lips the 2-tone lip bar. To get the modern Korean girl lip style, use the darker colour on the inside and lighter colour on the outside. Again, the emphasis is on natural, hence it is important not to give the lips an intense coating of colour.
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Celebrating
CUCKOO International’s 40th Anniversary In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Cuckoo International kindly invited media groups from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to a trip to South Korea where we were treated with city tours, a behind-the scenes look at their factories in Busan and Seoul, and the chance to witness the introduction of Cuckoo’s latest global ambassador! Intan Abu Daniel 2017 was a fantastic year for Cuckoo Brunei. Along with their notable achievements was the successful implementation of Cuckoo’s UP Plan: a flexible dual package plan launched in January 2018 that allows Brunei families from all walks of life to
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purchase a Cuckoo appliance and enjoy the higher standard to life that comes with it – without breaking bank. Unsurprisingly, the market’s response was overwhelmingly positive, and Cuckoo Brunei was able to achieve results that were, as
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Cuckoo International would put it, Beyond Standards. But outside of Brunei, Cuckoo exists in a larger world that runs on a very tight, innovative, cohesive, and extremely efficient operation, with a vision that will soon see this household appliance brand in more homes
throughout Southeast Asia and globally. We were very fortunate to be invited by Cuckoo Brunei and Cuckoo International to take just a small glimpse into this innovative world, and at the same time, celebrate their numerous achievements within the 40 years that they have been in operation.
Our first trip took us to South Korea’s second largest city, Busan, where the Yangsan factory is located. Busan is a seaside city nestled among mountains and amid this picturesque view is the Yangsan Factory – home to the production of Cuckoo’s famous multicookers and kitchen appliances. The reason for their fame is their innovation: what sets Cuckoo kitchen appliances apart from the rest of the world is that each appliance is powered by Cuckoo’s very own advanced technology. “A Cuckoo multi-cooker improves a person’s daily life in four ways: convenience, safety, nutrition and versatility,” Wong Kim Guan, Managing Director of Cuckoo Brunei, explains. “Convenience allows the consumers to cook their food with just a click of a button, and it ensures that you are getting the best result for all types of meals that you’re cooking, while spending less time in the kitchen and more time with family and friends.”
A prime example of this is the introduction made to Cuckoo GABA Rice – a type of rice germinated from brown rice, not unlike Brunei’s own kampong rice. What typically takes 20 hours to germinate takes just two hours when using a Cuckoo multi-cooker. Hundreds of employees within the factory take position within the assembly lines with one singular mission: to ensure that every appliance leaves the factory in pristine, working condition. Every component, every part, whether hardware or software, is checked and double checked before it is packaged and ready to go – ensuring that any Cuckoo product purchased functions perfectly. But aside from factory visits, one of the main reasons why we were invited to South Korea was making everyone a-flutter. After all, it isn’t every day that we get to attend a Gala Night and meet one of Korea’s hottest stars. The event was held at the ballroom of the Novotel Ambassador, and on the evening
Did you know that a Cuckoo Rice Cooker is sold every 10 seconds and a Cuckoo Water Purifier is sold every minute in South Korea?
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of 7 March 2018, over 500 Cuckoo employees and media from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore in their best outfits were in attendance. The event was a lively one – with a delicious five-course dinner and fantastic entertainment throughout. Speeches were made by the Chief Executive Officer of Cuckoo Korea, Brian Khoo, along with managing directors of Cuckoo Malaysia and Indonesia, before a ceremonial cutting of a fantastic multi-tiered cake officiated the celebration of Cuckoo’s 40th Anniversary. In his speech, Brian Khoo spoke about the expansion of Cuckoo into the Southeast Asian market. “Our sights are set on expanding the Cuckoo brand to Vietnam, India and Indonesia in 2018. We estimate that our overseas ventures will bring in an annual revenue of USD150 million
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in 2018, and a total of USD1 billion in the next five years,” the CEO revealed. “So, we will continue to increase our presence in overseas markets and focus our efforts on the global expansion of the Cuckoo brand.” Key players and teams were then awarded for their significant achievements in the past year. Wong Kim Guan, Managing Director of Cuckoo Brunei, accepted the Country Rising Sales Award – an award given in recognition of the rapid integration of Cuckoo household products in the Brunei market. Highly deserving of this award, Cuckoo Brunei accomplished a fantastic feat within 18 months - they successfully opened nine brandstores and garnered over 2,500 households, generating a revenue of BND2million. “We wouldn’t have been able to achieve such results without the
biG buzz
efforts of my highly supportive team, who believed in our vision,” Wong Kim Guan said. The evening hadn’t even reached its pinnacle yet, and everyone was already having a great time. The highlight came at the unveiling of Cuckoo’s new global brand ambassador - the dreamy South Korean actor, host and singer Lee Seung-Gi – to much squeals and applause. The star, known for his leading role in the hit Korean TV show ‘Korean Odyssey’ and his appearances in the ‘All The Butlers’ variety show, will appear in Cuckoo’s advertising campaigns in Korea, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore and more. Lee commented, “I am overjoyed to be selected as Cuckoo’s new global ambassador and meet the media from different countries here today. It is truly an honour to be part of Cuckoo’s exciting journey.” Cuckoo International’s Marketing Director felt that Lee was the perfect match for Cuckoo. “His positive image is in line with our brand mission, which is to promote a healthy way of life,” she explained. “He is well-loved and known for his down-to-earth and approachable personality.”
As for the possibilities of getting the handsome Korean celebrity down to Brunei shores, she added, “We would like to invite him to Brunei to meet Cuckoo customers and his fans as soon as we have the chance.” Our time in Korea was coming to a close, and after a glamorous night of celebrating Cuckoo’s numerous achievements, we boarded a bus the next morning to take a trip to Siehung Factory for an inside look at the production of another of their famous household appliance: their water purifiers. These mechanical and digital water purifiers are the crème de la crème of water purifiers, and today, more and more Bruneian households and companies have taken to purchase one. Along with some giving you the option to dispense hot, cold or room temperature water, they’re also extremely hygienic: the Icon and Jazz purifiers feature an in & out electrolysis sterilisation feature that allows it to auto-sterilise itself. Currently, six Cuckoo water purifiers are available in Brunei: Epic, Fusion Top, ICON, Deluxe, Jazz, and the Iris Top water purifier. Equipped with a digital touch panel and absolutely stunning in its sleek, monochrome design, the Iris Top dispenses mild alkaline
water in 13 temperature settings. It also features four filters with a 6-stage filtration system followed by an antibacterial stainlesssteel water tank, so hygienically, consumers can rest at east. The site visit also gave us insights into the Research & Development Department Unit – a true eye-opener for us. In South Korea, Cuckoo is more than the multi-cookers, water purifiers, rice cookers and air humidifiers available in Brunei: a laundry list of appliances including kettles, blenders, induction cookers, fermenters along with health care and living appliances like electric heaters, air washers, bidets, even beds, are available for a consumer in South Korea to purchase. The idea and then the production of these appliances before they are distributed throughout the world consists of diligent research and development, which even includes a climate-controlled unit that allows them to test the efficiency of their products in the climate of the local and international market. Our site visits confirmed a certain truth: like their motto, Cuckoo is truly about going Beyond Standards. From production lines to quality control, every product is carefully put together and thoroughly tested to ensure that it reaches its destination in prime, working condition. But all good things must come to an end, and after a farewell dinner, it was time to say goodbye to our kind Cuckoo hosts. A heartfelt thank you to Cuckoo Brunei for taking us on a trip of a lifetime, and congratulations to Cuckoo International on the occasion of their 40th anniversary. We look forward to celebrating more milestones with Cuckoo in its near and distant future.
For more information on Cuckoo Brunei, call the Cuckoo Careline at 2333330 or you can connect with them at: W: www.cuckoobrunei.com FB: @cuckoobrunei IG: @cuckoobn Read up more about our trip to South Korea with Cuckoo on our website, www.borneoinsidersguide.com.
Cuckoo multicookers are powered with 4 major Smart Technologies: • • • •
Smart Algorithms adjusts power and pressure levels to accommodate cooking any type of food from cakes to roast chickens to even yoghurt. Pressure Cooking reduces 70% of cooking time and energy usage while heating your food evenly, which helps retain minerals and original flavours. Heating Technology heats food with radio frequency electricity emitted from an induction-heating zone underneath the pot which ensures an evenly cooked meal. Coating Technology – Cuckoo’s proprietary SK-FLON coating keeps food from being contaminated by harmful substances and prevents rice from sticking to the walls of the pot.
In Brunei, customers have the option of purchasing a Cuckoo product with the Cuckoo UP Plan – a flexible dual package plan that allows Bruneian families from all walks of life to own their own Cuckoo appliance without having to pay large sums of money for it. Contact Cuckoo Brunei for more details on how you can own a Cuckoo appliance.
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Baristas Brew Hit Signature Drinks at the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Barista Competition Sheyenne Siah
F
or the tenth time running, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf hosted another in-house Barista Competition at Times Square Shopping Complex on 6 March 2018 for budding brewers hoping to challenge and establish themselves in the industry. Six finalists hailing from different outlets in Brunei were rounded up during the finals and given 15 minutes to brew up a total of 12 drinks consisting of four espressos, four cappuccinos and four signature drinks of
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their own creation for the judges to appraise. With prizes including a smart phone and an LCD screen television, the baristas put on a great show in hopes of wooing the judges and audience. In addition to the hefty winnings, the champion will also go on to participate in the upcoming International Barista Competition in Seoul where they will face baristas from Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf outlets all over the world. May Sagalla emerged victorious as the overall winner of the
competition and the winner of the best signature beverage: the Fiery Avocado drink—a matcha-based Ice Blended® featuring avocado and bird’s eye chili. The radiant victor was pleasantly surprised at her success and looks forward to traveling to South Korea for the first time, but is already feeling the pressure of the impending competition. “I don’t want to overthink it but I also need to start preparing for it as soon as possible!” she said excitedly. Among the six signature drinks of the day was also an “Iced
Hazelnut Rosy Latte” by second runner-up Abdul Wafi bin Kamis. With four years of experience on the grind under his belt, his coffee-based beverage was a delectable concoction featuring rose syrup, hazelnut powder and grass jelly. In second place, Nur Afiqah Farhannah binti Rosli presented her own innovative beverage called “Dream Layer of Brunei”—a perfectly calculated mixture of gula anau, tea and coffee. While the participants remained absorbed in the challenge on stage, the spectators also found themselves invested in the buzzing atmosphere. A member of the audience commended Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf for its initiatives in expanding the local coffee community, “It’s quite interesting that they have this kind of competition that empowers Bruneian youths. It teaches them to be more aware of what coffee should and shouldn’t be like while also encouraging them to push the boundaries by experimenting with different tastes.”
Find out more about The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Brunei at: FB: @thecoffeebeanbrunei IG: @coffeebean_brunei W: www.coffeebeanbrunei.com
biG buzz
Fantastic Treats & Deals at JBoxing 2018 J Boxing 2018 arrived in timely fashion: Ramadan was just around the corner and there was still plenty of last minute Hari Raya shopping to do. For the event, Dato’ Jovian Mandagie returned to Brunei with a flourish, bringing with him new collections such as the Edo by Jovian, Jovian Mandagie X Ivan Gunawan, Balik Kampung by Jovian and Jovian Men, among others. Held from 27-29 April 2018 at The Empire Hotel & Country Club, the annual event, hosted by Jovian Ready-To-Wear and Brunei’s own Bajoo
Boutique, and brought to Brunei exclusively by Baiduri Bank, saw a huge turnout with over 25,000 shoppers in just three days. Throughout the weekend, the event promoted discounted items and flash sales announcing “buy one free one” deals as well as “5 for $100” - which was just the cherry on top for happy shoppers who also got to meet the designer himself. “I just love all Bruneians because they’re all very supportive towards my brand, my work, and they really appreciate every single
thing I do for Brunei,” enthused Dato’ Jovian. The event also featured exclusive designs by Bajoo Boutique, including their ‘Girl Boss’ Raya 2018 line and their popular fashion line for children: ‘Sugar Sugar’. With clothes flying off the racks, the rewarding event presented a glimpse into more exciting things to come for the fashion industry in Brunei.
Connect with Bajoo Boutique by visiting their website: www.butikbajoo.com.
An Ear-Opening Experience at the Final TANE Workshop
H
eadphones might be the timeless accessory for your ears and outfits, but it’s time to give earphones some love. These portable and easier-on-the-wallet accessories can be more than just a means to listen with: with the right tuning, the right balance and the right materials, the earphones can produce a sound that ranges from tinny to pretty spectacular. AV Electronics offered the public a rare opportunity to take a glimpse into the inner workings of a pair of earphones – a first in Brunei. The ‘Build Your Own Sound’ Workshop was conducted on the weekend of 5-6 May 2018, with a two-hour long workshop for each group of participants to construct their own pair of Final brand earphones. The workshop saw participants assembling and then tuning their own pair of Final TANE Silver earphones – giving them an understanding about
the inner complexities of the earphone. Participants were given a kit containing various materials and assembled it with the help of a facilitator, understanding more about the difference in sounds as each part was added. There was a lot of fun experimenting with the sounds as participants tuned their individual earphones to their own preference, before bringing the earphones home for their personal use. A fun and ear-opening experience was had by all, and the earphones? Aside from sounding just the way we want it, it’s also super pretty to look at. Listen out for more workshops like these coming your way by connecting with AV Electronics on: FB: @av.electronics IG: @av.electronics W: www.ave.com.bn
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B i G getaway
SEMINYAK
It doesn’t take much to tempt me across to Bali for a few rejuvenating days away from Bandar Seri Begawan, and with direct flights available on Royal Brunei, it is the most accessible beach getaway in the region. There are plenty of hotels on the island that knows how to curate fun for your holiday, but for a luxury beach getaway in a locale sparkling with sophistication, look no further than Anantara’s beachside outpost located in the upscale enclave of Seminyak - an area that boasts an endless array of chic restaurants and cafes, trendy nightlife and shopping options. 1
Wan Zainal Abidin
T
he bright and airy suites at Anantara Seminyak are exquisitely designed in a contemporary Balinese style with views out to the ocean or to the gardens. The Anantara Ocean suite that I was assigned to has an expansive balcony with a Jacuzzi terrazzo bathtub for two, allowing you privacy to soak with a view of the world famous Seminyak sunsets. Lavish features like Indonesian wooden floors, oversized built-in beds covered with 300 thread-count linen and a mountain of pillows are perfectly complemented by sophisticated in-room amenities: a double-sized
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Hansgrohe ‘rainmaker’ shower, BOSE DVD player, surroundsound system, 42-inch LCD TV, 80GB iPod with docking station, Wi-Fi internet and an espresso machine. Marrying contemporary comforts with traditional beauty, exquisite local craftsmanship throughout the suite adds distinctive Balinese detail that echo the cultural uniqueness of the island. Measuring at 420 squaremeters and offering sweeping, 180-degree ocean vistas, The Anantara Penthouse suite is the embodiment of the ultimate luxury experience. With a modern minimalist décor, the
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1. Enjoying
4. The Moonlite
Moonlite Kitchen & bar
the sunset at Seminyak 2. Tea Tails 3. Bedroom at the Penthouse Suite
Wooden Deck at the Moonlite Kitchen & Bar 5. A sunset view at the balcony of the
6. Ingredients to
suite consists of two bedrooms, a lounge, library, kitchen, bar and dining area in an open-plan style. Outdoors, it features a concept pool with glass roof, a spacious sundeck with Weber BBQ area, loungers, daybeds and Jacuzzi. A private butler is on hand to cater to your whims - from arranging spa treatments, private yoga and meditation sessions to preparing sunset cocktails prior to a lobster barbeque on the private deck. Anantara Seminyak also offers a series of indulgent imbibing and dining experiences within its exceptionally stylish surroundings, combining the laid-back spirit of Bali with the marriage of
rejuvenate at the Anantara Spa 7. Delectable dishes at Wild Orchid
international tastes and the best of local flavours. Rooftop restaurant MoonLite Kitchen and Bar is the perfect setting to melt into the chilled-out vibes of Seminyak’s famed sunsets while savouring Asian-inspired dishes. For elegant afternoon tea or lunch and dinner, head over to Wild Orchid – the resort’s bistro-style café located next to the infinity-edge pool that looks out directly to the Indian Ocean. In pushing the design envelope, a line of customised tableware was specially created for use in these restaurants, inspired by materials like local Balinese stoneware and Japanese bone china.
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Head on down to the azure ocean to paddleboard, windsurf, kayak or surf, and when all these sporting activities in the fresh outdoor breeze has made your knees buckle, head on back to shore and set up camp by the infinity-edge swimming pool with its splendid views of the Indian Ocean. Heal the body and mind by enjoying an invigorating Thai massage, an ancient Ayurvedic spa therapy or the signature spa treatment utilising special long pressure treatments and local oils at Bali’s first Anantara Spa, or work up a sweat at the wellequipped fitness centre.
And when the yearn to dive into the local culture kicks in, Anantara Seminyak offers unique activities and excursions for guests to explore the exotic natural beauty and spiritual heartland of Bali. And that, frankly, is just touching on the stylish surface of this Seminyak gem that offers a truly authentic Balinese getaway.
Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort Jl, Abimanyu (Dhyana Pura), Seminyak, Bali bali.anantara.com
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biG appetite
Fitness on a Budget
Quinoa: check! Kale: check! Avocadoes: check! An aesthetically-pleasing assortment of multi-coloured fruits: check! With the rise of social media trends and a constant need to put our best “food” forward, a “healthy diet” has become synonymous with the flying-dollar-bill emoji and dismissed as part of the whims of the lucky few with an abundance of time, money and help. However, the BiG team decided to get down to the nitty-gritty for a week to find out if eating healthy is really as costly and painstakingly timeconsuming as it seems.
Breakfast fuel-up:
Mid-day boost
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
Low G.I. bread BND2.60
Brown rice BND7 (for a pack of 1kg)
Eggs BND3
Chicken breast BND3.90 (per kg)
Rolled oats BND5
Broccoli BND1-2
Bananas BND1-2
Soft wrap BND2
Skimmed milk BND2.15
Tuna flakes in water BND2.40 (per tin)
To begin our mornings, we alternated between two staple carbs for a much-needed energy boost. Whether it was a banana sandwich, overnight oats soaked in skimmed milk or kopitiam-style softboiled egg with toast, there was a surprisingly wide range of options we could play around with on a relatively low cost.
After a morning on the grind, a hearty lunch is always appreciated to get us through the remaining day, which means no delicate forkfuls for us! With our list of ingredients, we experimented with a no-frills chicken fried rice with a side of lightly sautéed broccoli. Veggie-heavy wraps or tuna sandwiches did the job just as well on days when we felt like mixing it up. Cheers to healthy and fulfilling lunches that won’t break the bank (or scale!).
A dinner affair Believe it or not, a large salad with the works is much cheaper than any fancy restaurant would have you think. For dinners, we enjoyed our salads with a simple homemade dressing of lemon juice, olive oil and garlic. Instead of store-bought croutons, we added a sprinkling of lightly-toasted low G.I. bread crumbs with some olives or feta cheese for an added robust flavour.
Ingredients: Lettuce BND2-3 Tomatoes BND1-2 Celery BND1.70 Capsicums BND1.50 Olives BND3
*Ingredients bought were sourced from supermarkets around Brunei. 38
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biG appetite
eat , drink
The Collective Wildflower Café Part florist, part café, all good. Despite being surrounded by the modern sports facilities of the Royal Brunei Recreational Centre (RBRC), The Collective Wildflower Café manages to exude a rustic charm thanks to a fantastic interior: faux grass carpet, rickety wooden tables and benches, a long serving counter loaded with the comforting sight of freshly baked goods, pretty tableware, decorative floral set pieces and soothing background music puts you in the mood to chat the afternoon away. That’s the ambiance – but what of the food? The list is small, but it packs a punch in creativity and tastiness with choices like toasted banana bread, Loaded Dip with Turkish bread, big sandwiches and scrumptious desserts. The coffee is good and available in its usual forms of lattes and cappuccinos, but the Superfood Lattes are something else. Available in three unique tastes, these are tasty, healthy, caffeine-free, and they look good on Instagram too. While it is located at the RBRC, The Collective Wildflower Café is open to the public and doesn’t require RBRC membership to enter.
Brunei Pamela Fletcher All restaurants in Brunei are closed for prayers between noon and 2pm on Fridays.
The Currypuff Factory Since 2015, The Currypuff Factory has been every local foodie’s version of Asian food wonderland. Upon entering the soon-to-be signature orange storefronts, customers are immediately greeted by an inviting expanse of unexpected delights and local delicacies that extend far beyond the famed curry puffs. What may have started off as a side venture to their luscious pastries has blossomed into a full-blown parade of curries, spices and good ol’ comfort food with traditional recipes passed down and perfected with the family’s culinary touch. We’re talking about the wide selection of nasi campur spanning up to 50 different dishes for customers to help themselves to in a pot-to-plate self-service concept. There’s no denying that there’s something very cosy about helping yourself to a hearty, homemade meal that you didn’t go through the trouble of cooking yourself. If you’re panicking about overloading your plate with too much goodness, we also highly recommend their à la carte menu. With the addition of their highlyrevered tender beef rendang (which we were told is still personally and lovingly prepared by their grandmother herself!), the nasi lemak special is indeed a special treat for the taste buds if ever there was one. In the Currypuff Factory, it’s all about being spoilt for choice! Unit 109, Grd Flr, Bgn Kumbang Pasang, Gadong Open daily: 6.30am to 9.30pm Tel: 673-8686466 IG: @kedaikopibn W: www.thecurrypufffactorybrunei.com
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Grd Flr Royal Brunei Recreational Club (RBRC), BSB Open daily: 9am-8pm IG: @thecollectivewildflower W: www.thecollectivewildflower.com
Ricardo’s With all the Western and Italian restaurants dominating the food scene, Brunei was ripe for authentic Mexican food. The folks over in Kuala Belait have been enjoying Ricardo’s Mexican fare for some time now, but the married duo who run the restaurant just opened shop in Jerudong Park Food Court,
and business has been so good that they tend to run out of food way before closing time. From tacos to chillies, everything is handmade by the two chefs and owners of Ricardo’s. The menu is brief but to the point with a variety of Mexican staples such as tacos, burritos, platos, nachos and fries. Flavours are big and portions are
generous, and if you don’t mind the stray cats that hustle your legs for spare food, we’d advise you to order up and eat it hot at the venue. And if you’re lucky, sweet treats like cannolis will be available for dessert. Keep an eye out on their Instagram account to make sure you get these sweet bad boys while the getting’s good.
Jerudong Park Food Court Phase 2, #19, Kg Jerudong Open: 11am-6pm (Tues-Sun)/2pm9pm (Fri)/(closed Mondays) Tel: 673-7276455 (WA only) IG: @ricardosmexicandelivery
biG appetite
eat , drink
COMMONS Merging sleek contemporary European design with local aesthetics, COMMONS promotes a café concept that provides a refuge for those seeking a hearty, heartwarming meal. The theme of the menu here is comfort food, with inspiration drawn from both Western and local influences. There is also an impressive selection of cakes all made in-house to go with the excellent coffee. Popular items include the COMMONS Nasi Lemak, Cheese Burger, and the simple yet tasty Kampung Fried Rice. Many flock here for the decadent tiramisu cake, but their Basque burnt cheesecake and banana upside-down cake are also exceptionally popular items.
Sarawak Irene Chan
NON HALAL
Old Courthouse, Jln Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching Open daily: 10am-11pm Tel: 6082-417601 FB: @CommonsKch IG: @commons_kch
The Story Table Kuching The Story Table is the first establishment in Kuching to offer pokebowls, and is staffed by boys who grew up in The Salvation Army Boys’ Home. Pokebowls are customisable by customers, who build it by selecting the Base, Sidekicks and Boosters, and finished off by choosing from a selection of delicious sauces. There is also sushi for those craving a a more bite-sized option. Diners who prefer their food well cooked will be pleased by the selection of Korean dishes and stir-fries on the menu. All this is rounded up with Hawaiian mocktails, and a range of specialty coffee and teas, good on their own or to go with their cakes. Grd Flr, SL11399 PL38, Jln Song, 93350 Kuching Open: 11.30am-9.30pm (Mon-Thurs)/11.30am-10pm (Fri-Sun)/(closed Sundays) Tel: 6014-3338959 FB: @thestorytablekch IG: @thestorytablekch
PIATO BISTRO
NON HALAL
The standard times for eating breakfast, lunch and dinner items has seen a blatant disregard in recent years, and why not – Eggs Benedict shouldn’t be limited to mornings! The all-day breakfast concept was first introduced to the chef of Piato Bistro whilst he was working in Sydney, which he then brought back with him to Miri. The bistro currently serves an all-day breakfast, along with delicious options for lunch and evening courses. A top favourite for diners is the Big Breakfast as well as their various creative iterations on the simple Eggs Benedict dish. Those seeking something heartier can opt for either their pasta dishes or the meat-loaded lamb and beef stroganoffs, which are also popular items on the menu.
Lot 2455, Boulevard Commercial Centre, 98000 Miri Open: 8am-10pm (closed Mondays) Tel: 6012-8500228 FB: @piatobistro IG: @piatobistro Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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biG appetite
eat , drink S a b a h Pamela Fletcher
Laundroluxe NON HALAL
Now, this is a Sunday afternoon made in heaven – brunching with friends in chic comfort while your laundry runs at full speed. Laundroluxe is making household chores cool again and customers couldn’t be happier. Nestled in Api Api Centre, Laundroluxe is a juxtaposition with its sophisticated and calming interior that soothes as you sip gourmet coffee or indulge in a sweet dessert while you wait for your washing buzzer to go off. But why wait till Sunday when you can enjoy Laundroluxe any day of the week. The beautifully laid out table setting is a prelude to what you can expect here with its western-inspired cuisine featuring classic pasta dishes, grilled and roasted meats, seafood, soups and salads. Choices are modest with some adventurous offerings like pan-seared foie gras to tempt the palate. The pasta is made fresh everyday but do request for al dente as they tend to be well-done. The staff is very friendly and accommodating so a well-placed whisper will definitely get you a meal worth waiting for. The dessert menu is equally modest with a blend of favourites such as creme brulee and tiramisu, which comes highly recommended, and honeydew sago gula melaka for a touch of local flavour. Laundry service ends at 6pm so dinner is a more intimate affair for two or a small group of friends. Lot 3G3, Api-Api Centre, Kota Kinabalu Open: 9.30am-4.30pm, 6pm-11pm (Tues-Sun)/(closed Mondays) (Laundry opening hours: 7.30am-6pm) Tel: 6011-51825661 FB: @Laundroluxe
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Damn Good Burger This new burger joint along Lorong Dewan in the city has been getting a lot of attention since it opened up in February this year. Staffed by a crew of young and enthusiastic people bent on serving the best burgers in town, Damn Good Burger is doing a commendable job satisfying everyone’s craving for a juicy burger made simple but done right. Patties are beef or lamb sandwiched between a soft bun with crispy greens, cheese and a splash of thousand island dressing
for added deliciousness. There is no cutlery to daintily dice your burger into bite-sized pieces so it can get messy, and hence my only gripe is that the bun should be a bit firmer to sop up all that juiciness from the meat. The fries, on the other hand, are crispy and tasty. Great save, guys. You can have your burger with one, two or even ten patties - yes, TEN, as in the monster burger called ‘Apocalypto’. The ‘Notorious’ is a nod to the American classic burger with everything on it from raw onions to tomatoes, pickles, and mustard, with a patty stuffed with
mozzarella cheese. Prices are a notch or two higher that your typical fast food burger joint but with their bigger, juicier handmade patties, it’s value for money. Drinks are limited to premixed bottled coffee and chocolate drinks, soda and mineral water. Seating is also pretty limited so just grab and go, or have one delivered to your doorstep. Lot 08 Lorong Dewan, 88000 Kota Kinabalu Open: 12noon-11pm (WedMon)/(closed Tuesdays) Tel: 6012-8416922 FB: @damngoodburger
biG appetite
Fruto Juice Bar With its new location in the heart of touristfriendly Lorong Dewan, Fruto Juice Bar is destined to become the go-to juice bar in the city for your healthy shots of wellness and guilt-free desserts. Everything at Fruto is raw and naturally flavoured, and ingredients used are highquality local and imported produce selected by an expert mixologist to maximise goodness and flavour in each serving. While Fruto’s cold-pressed juices have garnered a loyal following, their latest offering of smoothie super-grain bowls is set to attract a new set of ardent followers. The smoothie bowls not only look like a rainbow landed on them, they taste absolutely amazing. Cleverly textured to give you a mix of crunch and juiciness from the fruits, grains
and nuts, they are naturally sweetened and packed with nutrition. Their Biru Biru Kinabalu bowl is creamy and sweet with Canadian Wild Blueberries, bananas and almonds. Go bright red with their Strawberry N Cream, a sweet and sour combo of strawberry, lemon and cashew milk, or give in to your passion for chocolate with their Cocoa Rawcha!, a delectable blend of sugar-free dark chocolate, fresh avocado and raw cashew milk. All their smoothie bowls are mixed with super-grains and topped with anti-oxidant rich garnishes for that complete bowl of goodness and energy to start your day or to keep you going till the weekend. Lot 12C, Ground Floor, Lorong Dewan, 88300 Kota Kinabalu Open daily: 10am-10pm (MonSat)/8am-9pm (Sunday) Tel: 6017-8173983 FB: @FRUTOJUICEBAR
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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.
Our Picks Ranging from quick & easy meals to lobster & caviar, these are our favourite haunts around town!
Chop Jing Chew Freshly made Roti Kahwin perfectly paired with a teh tarik 10 Spg 5 Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 242 4132)
Restoran Makan & Soto Rosmini Our favourite soto hang-out 1 Spg 15, Jln Gadong (673 871 9946)
Amulya This North Indian restaurant serves our favourite briyani in town. Grd Flr Jln Setia Square Berakas, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 9230)
Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant Arabic cuisine at its finest #1A&1B Heng Thai Property Centre Spg 22 Jln Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 245 0009) – call for other branches
Mei Kong Coffee Shop A trip to Brunei isn’t complete without sampling their famous kolo mee 108 Jln Pemancha, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 224 0688)
MY FAVOUREAT KOPITIAM Kopitiams are so trendy these days, you guys. A short time ago it wasn’t out of the ordinary to see groups of elderly men sitting outside of a kopitiam with a cup of teh tarik and football on the television. Nowadays, it isn’t surprising to see a kopitiam decked out in all that is hipster, with groups of youngsters on their mobile devices, all the while serving kopitiam fare that is reasonable on the wallet. My Favoureat Kopitiam underwent a renovation in March and emerged a trendier, fancier, more ‘atas’ version of its predecessor, but with the same good food that had us folks addicted in its simpler days. Sit down and order its famous Sungai Liang Kway Teow, and enjoy the fact that you’re eating good simple fare in pretty posh surroundings. #9 Grd Flr Hj Munchit & Hjh Dyg Rapiah Complex, Kg Jaya Setia, Berakas IG: @myfavoureatkopitiam
Kaizen Sushi served fresh on your table plus a variety of other Japanese cuisine Yayasan Complex Waterfront Side, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 222 6336) – call for other branches Pondok Sari Wangi Restaurant Serving the best of Indonesian cuisine 12-13 1st Flr Blk A Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 244 5043) – call for other branches Thien Thien Restaurant Purveyors of arguably the best Nasi Ayam in town 10 Grd Flr Mas Panchawarna Complex (673 222 2435) – call for other branches Ximply Chriz Café Divine desserts, great coffee and scrumptious meals 8 Blk A Regent Square, Kiulap (673 223 4918)
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 (673 234 3001) (Times Square Branch) or #204 Spg 210 Kg Lambak, JLN BERAKAS (673 880 3183) – 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 Kaya Setia, BERAKAS (673 233 7358) - call for other branches
Deals This modern, refreshing and contemporary restaurant offers set menu for dinner for a gastronomic experience. OPEN 7pm onwards (Mon-Sat), closed on Sundays and public holidays; Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 224 4272)
Ideal Café and Grill Homegrown fast-food brand Ideal Café & Grill has been serving Brunei its signature grilled rotisserie chicken since 1996, when it first started off selling its homemade grilled chicken in a modest stall. The restaurant chain remains strong as ever today, serving customers their farmfresh, freshly grilled rotisserie chicken in restaurants in five different locations, and remains a local favourite. OPEN DAILY 9am-10pm; Goodwood Building Kg Menglait, GADONG (673 245 5595) – Call for other branches
Souled Out A hugely popular restaurant chain in Malaysia with a good variety of Western, local, Italian and Northern Indian cuisine. 44
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
biG listings
FULL HAUS COFFEE
ADVERTISERS
GALLERY
So you have your bike shops, and then you have your coffee shops, and then sometimes a stroke of genius allows you to combine the two, so you get to enjoy coffee amid a display of beautiful bikes. And if you’re really lucky, you’ll get an awesome cup of coffee and a pretty dang good grilled cheese sandwich, some choices of books and magazines and board games, and friendly service. Such was our experience at Full Haus Coffee, a café that hits all the right spots. We’ll be coming back for the great service and delicious coffee – and maybe we’ll window shop for a bike and accessories while we’re there...
Located by the city’s waterfront, diners can catch the sunset from the al fresco dining area with their signature mojito, rated as the best in Kota Kinabalu. OPEN DAILY: Noon-1am; G-101, Imago Shopping Mall, KK Times Square Phase 2, Off Jalan Coastal Highway, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, SABAH (6016 829 9268, 6088 275 988)
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.
Grd Flr Riverview Medical Complex, Jln Gadong, Kg Kumbang Pasang Tel: 673-2240456 IG: @fullhauscoffeebn
Taste of Asia Vietnamese pho, Thai tom yam, Japanese sushi, Korean kimchi and Bruneian ambuyat – this list covers most of our favourite Asian delights. Ahan Thai 10 Blk B Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 245 2852) All Seasons Restaurant 17 1st Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 8068) Aminah Arif 2 & 3 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 223 6198) – Call for other branches Aneka Rasa Blk A #16 & 17 Grd & 1st Flr Bgn Begawan Pehin Dato Hj Mohd Yussof, Kg Kiulap (673 223 1728) Anjung Layar Luncur (Nur Wanita Serasa Branch) Simpang 287, Pantai Serasa (673 277 1879) Ar Ruhma Restaurant 329 Blk D Bgn Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 242 7847)
Axtivo Restaurant Spg 13 Hj Uthman Complex, Berakas (673 233 5642) Babu’s Kitchen C44 Blk C Grd Flr Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 245 7868) Bali Pit-Stop 15 &16, Spg 150 Grd Floor, Block A Bangunan Habza, Kiulap (673 720 9992) Chatterbox Kopitiam 2 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbullah 2, Gadong (673 820 1212) Eco Dermaga Kafé 2 Building, Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 729 5999) Farmbasket Snack Bar A1, Grd Flr Blk A, Urairah Complex, Spg 88, Kiulap (673 223 4666) – Call for other branches Gurkha Palace 47 Jalan Bunga Melor, Seria Town (673 322 1474) Gratitude Café Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 234 1123) Great Taste Restaurant Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 234 1123)
OPEN DAILY 6am-6pm; Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 224 4272)
Happy Dean Restaurant No 3, Grd Flr, Zainuddin Complex, Spg 11, Anggerek Desa, Berakas A (673 234 0885) – Call for other branches Impian Rasa Restaurant #5 Bgn Pg Hjh Rafiah Spg 607 Jln Jangsak, Gadong (673 265 3858) – Call for other branches Kaka Restaurant 2 & 3 Spg 100 Jln Jerudong (673 267 2333) – Call for other branches La Mee #1B & 1c Grd Flr Spg 41-1-12, Jln Kiarong (673 243 0113) Lee Loi Fatt Blk A #7 Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 234 2384) – Call for other branches Mangrove Paradise Resort Spg 912 Kg Sungai Belukut, Jln Kota Batu (278 6868) MY Favoureat Restaurant 9 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 9410) Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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biG listings
Pho Real 1st Flr Times Square Food Court, Kg Jaya Setia
Seaworld Neptune 8 Spg 791, Jerudong (673 261 2613)
Nyonya 3 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbollah, Gadong (673 244 7090)
Rice Bowl 72 T.C.Y Building, Batu Bersurat (673 863 0665)
Old Time Kopitiam G2 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Ibrahim, Kg Menglait (673 244 8282)
Sapphira Cake House 3 Grd Flr Seri Anigma, Kiulap (673 223 2021)
Sate House Unit B9, Block B, Setia Kenangan II, Spg.150, Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan
PappaRich Blk G Grd Flr Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 243 2333)
Seasons Restaurant Lvl 2 The Centrepoint, Gadong (673 242 2291)
Spicy Curry & Wraps from Arabic to Indian cuisine, check out these restaurants if you like a spicy kick to your meals.
Seafood Palace #1, 2 & 3 Blk B An-Nuha Building, Kg Tanjung Bunut (673 267 1299)
Sugar ‘n’ Spice Grd Flr Blk B, Spg 150-5-13-18, Bgn Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap, Brunei BE1518
MyTown Eating House Grd Flr The Crown Princess Complex, Jalan Tutong (673 224 1880)
Pho Hoa Restaurant #6 Grd Flr Blk B Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kg Kiulap (673 223 6218)
Amsarra Shawarma & Espresso Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia Bombay Palace Restaurant #9 Grd & 1st Flr Blk B Bgn Pg Mainuddin & Anak2, Batu Bersurat (673 242 7313) C’Fu Curry House Restaurant Spg 103 #5 & 6 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Md Salleh, Gadong (673 245 7000) Delhi Darbar Restaurant & Catering Spg 38 Jln Jerudong (673 267 2826)
ADVERTISERS
GALLERY The Curry Puff Factory The bright orange storefront of local favourite The Currypuff Factory signifies two things: first, that this is the place that has a buffet with a large selection of delicious local cuisine at affordable prices, and two, there’s some delicious curry puffs to try here too! Come here to eat, but stay for the savoury desserts: their curry puffs are larger than your average puffs because they’re packed with generous helpings of curry potatoes and chicken with a creamy and buttery filling ensconced in a puff pastry that will melt in your mouth. OPEN DAILY 6.30am-9.30pm; #109, Bangunan Kumbang Pasang (Gadong Properties), GADONG (673 868 6466) – call for other branches
TWO SONS COFFEE Two Sons Coffee’s name is attributed to the owners’ adorable twin boys, and if you’re lucky, they’ll gift you with a cheeky smile. But as cute as these munchkins are, what’s most noteworthy about Two Sons Coffee are their coffee and their doughnuts – a classic combination elevated to heavenly mouth-watering standards. Their cream-filled doughnuts are real crowd pleasers, but their coffee is nothing short of spectacular, with thanks no doubt to the couple’s years of barista experience in Birmingham. Previously based in Panaga, the couple has set up roots in the Bandar area. Be sure to follow them on IG and keep yourself in the loop for when they have pre-orders available and when they pop up at an event near you you’re not going to want to miss them! Tel: 673-7321327 IG: @twosonscoffee FB: TWO SONS Coffee
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The Empire Hotel & Country Club
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
biG listings
PULP Durian lovers, take note. There’s a new player in town, and it doesn’t require you to buy a durian at a roadside stall and consume amid car fumes. Perfectly refined and practically posh, Pulp has an entire parlour of desserts dedicated to the king of fruits. This all-durian patisserie offers various durian permutations in the form of desserts and pastries, and it’s a durian dream come true. Delicacies here are made fresh daily with the highest quality ingredients and strike a perfect balance between the intense flavours of durian and the sweetness of pastries and cakes. Each product is made without preservatives and colouring, with the best quality durians sourced from different parts of Southeast Asia. Try their signature puff pop with the creamy durian filling, or go for broke with some silky durian mousse. There will be zero regrets. Lvl 1, An’najat Complex, Kg Mata-Mata, Gadong IG: @durianbypulp
Le Taj 2-3 2nd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 223 8996) Lotus Family Restaurant 27B Grd Flr Delima Jaya Complex, Berakas (673 234 2049) Rajah’s Restaurant 3 Grd Flr Blk A Bangunan PAP Umi Kalthum, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 224 0379) Saffron Restaurant 8 Blk C Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 223 5888) Sameer Restaurant & Catering G1 Grd Flr Sg Akar Sentral, Berakas (673 233 6613) Spices Restaurant #1 Grd Flr Blk A Aman Complex, Jln Muara (673 233 0081) Sweet Buttons Café & Catering Unit 4, Grd Flr, Spg 98, Kpg Delima Satu, Berakas A (673 828 5235)
The Wrap #2 Jerudong Park Food Court, Jerudong Ya Nur Restaurant #7 1st Flr Bgn Hj Tahir 2, Kg Menglait (673 871 9986) Zaika Restaurant A4 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 334 7430) Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant 1A & 1B Heng Thai Property Centre, Spg 22, Jalan Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 245 0009) 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 (673 223 3989) Buccaneer Steak House 92-93 (B) 94 Grd Flr Jln McKerron, Kuala Belait (673 333 0406)
Charcoal BBQ & Grill Restaurant Grd Flr Le Gallery Suites Hotel, Jln Tutong (673 222 1171) – Call for other branches Cheezbox Café External Café, Ramp A, The Mall, Gadong (673 242 5506) Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 223 2368) – Call for other branches De’ Olde Cottage 2 Grd Flr Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 242 6982) – Call for other branches Deli-Bites Royal Brunei Recreation Club (Poolside Terrace), Jln Terunjing Lama, Berakas (673 877 928) Flapjack House #6 Bgn Majid Mohamad Jln Pasar Baharu, Kg Kiarong (673 245 0987)
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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biG listings
Tasconi’s Pizza The granddaddy of local pizzerias needs no introduction, but in case you didn’t know, Tasconi’s Pizza has been serving up and delivering delicious pizza pies and Italian food since the 90’s. With the next generation of this family outfit taking the helm, expect new and big things from this well-loved pizza place. First on their agenda: the launch of their Lamb Roll – a meaty lamb filling ensconced in a bread wrap – which you can get regular-sized or large (we recommend large), and to wrap things up, pair it off with the new cheesy Chicken Baked Rice which we cannot recommend enough. Looking forward to see what else they’ve got up their sleeve! Spg 145, Lot 10102, Grd Flr, #C5, Kg Berakas Tel: 673-2335222 IG: @tasconispizza FB: @tasconispizzabrunei
ADVERTISERS
GALLERY the family at their popular Weekend Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. OPEN 6.30pm-10pm (closed Thursdays) / 11am-3pm (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
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) 48
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
biG listings Magnum Café 18 & 19 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 239 2555)
Wing-It #16 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 722 4999)
Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 223 1777) – Call for other branches
Coffee & Cafes Gourmet, premium-grade, specialty coffee – this list accommodates the best of the burgeoning local coffee industry.
Fratini’s Restaurant #1 Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 245 1200) – Call for other branches Home Kitchen by Tree-Bit Café D8 & D9 Lot 11620 Grd Flr Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 242 9366) Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 899 7333) Magherita Pizzeria #5 Blk A Scout Complex Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 868 8884) Paddington House of Pancakes 3&4 Blk C Spg 58, Jln Berakas, Kg Serusop (673 233 1668) Pastamania #9 Grd Flr Blk H Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 245 7441) – Call for other branches Pepper Lunch Brunei C9/10 Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 225 3000) Qasehmaisara Café House #206-209 2nd Flr Plaza Athirah, Jln Kubah Makam DiRaja (673 278 9898) RMS Diner A5 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 334 7455) RBC Lifestyle Cafe Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 222 0815) Rovansil Restaurant #36-38 1st Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 7129) Red Canopy Café #5 Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 245 3878) Sorriso Restaurant & Pizzeria #14 Blk B Grd Flr Regent Square, Kiulap (673 223 3030) Swensen’s #2.34-2.36 2nd Flr The Mall, Gadong (673 245 1864)
Another Café #2 Grd Flr Blk A Bgn Hj Abd Rahman & Hjh Siti Ajar, Kiulap (673 223 3593) Baristas by Modesto Grd Flr Food Arena Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kg Kiulap (673 223 7771)
Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17 Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 899 7333) Ner Dee Café #F11 1st Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 721 4977) Peppermint Café Lim Eng Ming Complex Blk D, Kg Kiulap Beribi (673 8221888) Piccolo Café #11 Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 224 1558)
Beanery & Co #81 A/1 Grd Flr, Jln Bunga Rambai, Kuala Belait (673 334 7772)
Rack & Brew #9 Blk H 1st & 2nd Flr Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 729 9668)
BELLUNO Café #2 Blk C Kiarong Complex, Kg Kiarong (673 242 9010)
Rafia’s VK Café G13 Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 890 6990)
Brew Café & Bakery #47 Grd Flr Blk C Gadong Central, Menglait (673 242 7554)
Ran’s Coffee 1st Flr the Centrepoint Hotel Abdul Razak Complex Terminal 1 T1-05, Gadong (673 869 7700)
Caffé Verve #6A Spg 68, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 875 7382) Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 223 2368) – call for other branches E.A.T. Bakery Grd Flr Blk B, Little Soho, Spg 73-5-8, Jln Batu Bersurat, Kg Pengkalan Gadong (673 866 4608)
The Krema Coffee #D31 Lim Eng Ming Complex Blk D, Kg Kiulap (673 897 3600) The Library Café #6 Blk C, Bangunan Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap
Divine Dining Exquisite meals in beautiful settings – perfect for special occasions
Games & Lattes Café #E9 Grd Flr Blk E Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 223 5200)
Atrium Café The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888)
Geo Eats No. 13, Spg 381, Kg Jerudong (673 827 1381)
Dynasty Restaurant Grd Flr Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 243 0185)
Gloria Jean’s Coffee G17 Citis Square, Berakas (673 233 8452)
The Horizons Seafood Restaurant Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 223 3400)
It’s a Grind Coffeehouse 1, Grd Floor, Bgn AlWarasah, Muara Town (673 277 2424) – call for other branches Kapra Coffee #26 Grd Flr Blk C Spg 440, Jln Muara (673 234 5656)
Senja Restaurant 8&9 Grd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 223 5313) Spaghettini The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888) Tarindak d’Polo Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Jerudong (673 261 2500) Tarindak D’Seni Brunei Arts & Handicrafts Centre, Kota Batu (673 224 0422) Go Green Healthy and vegetarian friendly options
TCVH Vegetarian House B3, Grd Flr, Blk B, Spg 150-5-13-18, Bgn Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 866 5952) Pureland Vegetarian Restaurant #15 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Awg Ahmad bin Hassan & Anak-anak, Kiulap (673 223 6503) The Healthy Habit Blk A, Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap BE1518 (673 223 1030) TienSing Vegetarian & Catering Restaurant 21-22 Bangunan Hj Hassan II, Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 245 4988) Quick Eats Fast and delicious meals for those on the go
Brunei Detox Bar 9 Grd Flr, Abdul Razak Complex, BE3519
Bento Brothers #B19 Blk B Bgn Habza Spg 150, Kg Kiulap (673 223 6800)
Mituo Vegetarian Restaurant Grd Flr Pg Anak Puteri Norain Complex, Batu Satu (673 222 2821)
Burgers & Grills F20, Jln Tengah Bangunan, Bowling Alley Seria, Kpg Pekan Seria (673 322 1434)
The Energy Kitchen Grd Flr, Fitness Zone Kiulap, Palm Garden Hotel, Kg Kiulap BE1518 (673 223 3323)
Nasi Katok Mama Express 3 Blk A Grd Flr Kompleks Madang, Madang (673 864 1681)
Pan & Wok #28A Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia (673 234 2836) Pelicana Chicken Unit C7, Blk C, Setia Kenangan ll, Kiulap (673 223 9933) RBC Express Fast Food #1 Grd Flr Blk A, Bangunan Hj Matussin, Kg Kiulap (673 223 7253) Non-Halal Options Danes Café #102, Bgn Batu Bersurat, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 242 8914) Golden Leaf Coffee House Blk 1 Grd Flr PAP Hjh Norain Building, Jln Batu Satu (673 222 0422) – Call for other branches Hua Hua Restaurant Grd Flr, Blk B, Bangunan Urairah, Kiulap– Call for other branches Phongmun Restaurant 2nd Flr Teck Guan Plaza Jln Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 222 9561) Sui Heng Restaurant Grd Flr Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah Complex, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 8321)
Sweet As Sara Unit 7A, Ground Floor, Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 888 9169)
Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 223 1777) – call for other branches
High Frequency Lifestyle Café 1st Flr Unit 5 Blk B Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 242 8262)
Savy’s Brasserie 204 Lvl 2 Mabohai Shopping Complex, Mabohai (673 224 0829)
I-Lotus 20 Spg 12-26 Perumahan Rakyat Jati, Kg Rimba (673 242 2466) Lobby Lounge The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888) Pantai Restaurant The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888) 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 261 543) 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) – Korean café, serves all-day brunch 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) – Gourmet French restaurant with an extensive selection of cheeses and wines, a wine bar and delicatessen (non-halal) 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) Jothy’s Fish head Curry & Banana Leaf Blk 1 Lot G9 Api Api Centre, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 595) Kirishima Japanese Restaurant Cititel Express No 1 Jln Singgah Mata 1 Asia City, Kota Kinabalu (6088 217 868)
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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
Kohinoor North Indian Restaurant Lot 4 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 235 160) Korean Club Restaurant 4 Jln Aru, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 213) Little Italy Grd Flr Hotel Capital Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 231) Mad Ben Café Lot 121, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 255 073) – classic western food Mai Yai Thai Orchid Restaurant Lot 13 KK Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu (6088 234 841) Mdm Ing Fish Noodle Lot 21 Towering Koidupan Perdana Jln Tambunan, Penampang (6016 831 8726) Mr Ho’s Fine Foods L-72-G Grd Flr Blk L KK Times Square Phase 1, Kota Kinabalu (6088 222 623) 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)
Pancake House Concourse Flr 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 110) Lot G94-94A Karamunsing Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 319 168) Party Play 117 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 311 210) Pasta Pasta 108 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6014 371 4665) Peppermint Vietnamese Cuisine No. 85 Grd Flr Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6012 802 4582) Port View Seafood Village Lot 18 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 753) Pusas the Smokehouse Ground Floor, S6, Jalan Signal Hill The Peak Vista, Kota Kinabalu (6088 299 199) – Serves burgers, hotdogs and sandwiches with locally produced premium bacon and sausages (non-halal) Restaurant Baba & Nyonya Recipe Blk E Grd Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6016 810 8206)
Restoran Makanan Sedap No 1-0-1 Blk B Jln Kolam Centre Phase 2 Jln Lintas, Kota Kinabalu (6088 247 459)
Plaza, Jalan Nosoob Penampang (6088 715 453) – Hipster café offering all-day dining and specialty coffees
Sailors Lot 36 1st Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6088 731 960)
Vino Vino Bistro Unit J-57, 1st Flr, KK Times Square, 88100, Kota Kinabalu (6088 486 363) – non-halal European fare with extensive wine collection
Sakura Japanese Restaurant G-23A & G-25, Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu (6088 273 604) – Japanese cuisine 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
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) – All pork dishes served in herbal soup
Eat (Sarawak) A One Seafood Restaurant Lrg Chew Siik Hiong 1, Sibu (6084 215 803) Absolute Tribal Restaurant Hills Shopping Mall, Kuching (6082 237 468) Alfian Restaurant 52 Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 215) All Joy Café 8-1 Jln Khoo Hun Yeang, Kuching (6082 243 535) Apollo Seafood Centre 4 Jln Yu Seng Selatan, Miri (6085 420 813) Apple Restaurant 78 Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi, Bintulu (6086 333 377)
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) Beei Jing Restaurant Sdn Bhd 157 Jln Kg Nyabor, Sibu (6084 330 955) Bismi Restaurant 27 Jln Sommerville, Bintulu (6086 331 835) Bites by the Batik 38 Jln Pandungan, Kuching (6082 422 845) Bla Bla Bla 27, Jln Tabuan, 93000, Kuching (6082 2330944) – Chineseinspired fusion dishes Black Bean Coffe & Tea 87, Ewe Hai Street, 93000 Kuching (6082 420 290) – Most aromatic shop in town with the finest brews Boardriders Café Plaza Merdeka Jln Pearl, Kuching (6082 237 526) Boulevard Restaurant 2228 Jln Saberkas, Lutong (6085 653 175) Buenas Filipino Lechon & Restaurant 329 Jln Tj Batu, Bintulu (6086 310 860) Café Café at Original Carwash Low 211-214, Section 9, KTLD, Rubber Rd, Kuching (6082 256 396) – Asian and western fare including Nyonya and Foochow cuisine
Desserts and coffee from Pando Cafe, Kota Kinabalu
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) October Coffee House Blk B The Peak Vista Lorong Puncak 1 Tjg Lipat, Kota Kinabalu (6010 346 954) Open Kitchen Grd Flr, Unit 8, Blk 1, Metro Town, 88300, Kota Kinabalu (6088 254 161) – Asian food incorporating health conscious ingredients
Aglio Olio from G Cafe, Kuching
biG listings Li Garden Restaurant Hock Lee Centre, Kuching (6082 340 785)
Pin Pin Café 18 Jln Krokong Bau (6082 763 486)
Sushi Tie-tts Wisma Sanyan, Sibu (6084 342 875)
Lim Hock Ann 96 1 Jln Kg Kuntal, Kuching (6082 846 533)
Pinang Nyonya Non-halal nyonya cuisine 18, Grd Flr, 2nd Precinct, Jln Setia Raja 93450, Kuching (6082 459 162)
Ten-Ichi Japanese Restaurant 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 331 310)
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) Mango Tree Restaurant Jalan Crookshank, Kuching (6082 235 353) Map Restaurant Bang Terminal, Kuching (6082 459 087)
Spicy Mango Melon & Asam Boi Mojito from Souled Out, Kota Kinabalu Café Min Xin Lot 1126-27 Riam Comm Centre, Miri (6085 628 839) Capital Restaurant 86 Jln Keppel, Bintulu (6086 331 160) Carvery Restaurant Jln Abell, Kuching (6082 239 449) Casabella Mediterranean Restaurant Crown Square, Kuching (6082 346 612) Chef at Home Lorong Green 1 Blk 10, Kuching (6016 858 5159)
Earthlings Coffee Workshop Coffee shop, roaster, academy Lot 45, Grd Flr, No. 1, CityONE Megamall, Jln Song East Court Chicken Rice 867 Jln Club SAman (6083 326 818) Eden Everise Wisma Nation Horizon, Block C, Kuching (6016 888 4522) Escobar SF3 Damai Cenral Pantai Damai Santubong, Kuching (6014 288 1160) Fac Bravo Restaurant 7778 Jln Sultan Iskandar, Bintulu (6086 316 920)
Chuan Hong Restaurant 123 Jln Council SAman (6083 322 466)
Farley Restaurant 1721 Jln Salim, Sibu (6019 816 3052)
Crown Dynasty Restaurant Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Bintulu (6086 335 908)
Feast & Furious Café 244, Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman (6016 2620916)
Cuppa-kap Coffee Jln Song, Kuching (6019 8869636) Da Mi Xiang Gu Tou Bao Restaurant Tabuan Hts Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 458 952) Dynasty Chinese Restaurant Oil Town Comm Complex, Miri (6085 424 000)
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 Duck Restaurant 313 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 336 313) James Brooke Bistro & Café Western and signature local cuisine by the waterfront 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) Kim Bay HK Macau Restaurant Boulevard Shopping Mall Jln Datuk Tawi, Kuching (6082 239 308) Koreana Restaurant 10002 Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6082 575 072)
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)
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) Rock Road Seafood Restaurant 1230 Jln Rock Bt 2½ , Kuching (6082 241 575) Sajian Warisan Restaurant 537 Jln Gartak, Miri (6085 429 911)
Metro Café 781 Jln Bangkita, Limbang (6085 215 488)
Salleh’s Corner Café RPR Phase 2 Shoplot Jln Astana Petra Jaya, Kuching (6012 807 8033)
Min Hua (89) Restaurant G 13 Jln Bintang Utara, Bintangor (6084 693 240)
Sea View Restaurant G Pusat Tmn SDagang, Bintulu (6086 334 929)
Momoyama Wisma Phoenix, Kuching (6082 420 561) My Little Kitchen Home cooked style Scandinavian food inspired by the owner’s grandma’s recipes 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)
Kuching Noodle Porridge House 115-1 Wisma Saberkas, Kuching Patz Dayak Home Cook Special (6082 426 005) New Full 3 Foodcourt, Stutong (next to Giant Hypermart, L.L. Banana Leaf 7G Lorong Rubber 1 Jln Rubber, Tabuan Jaya) (6016 864 4763) Kuching (6082 239 404)
Seventy2 Restaurant 894 Jln Permaisuri, Miri (6085 366 318)
Teo Seafood 787 Jln Kg Buntal, Kuching (6082 846 532) The Banquet 4560 Jln Datuk Tawi Sli, Kuching (6082 451 414) The Dyak Restaurant Indigenous Dayak cuisine 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) 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) Topspot Bukit Mata Seafood Centre Halal seafood centre with seafood fresh off the boats Jln Padungan, Bukit Mata, Kuching (6019 889 9838)
Shabu-kun Restaurant 253 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 317 311)
Tribal Stove Blk H Jln Borneo Taman Sri, Kuching (6082 234 873)
Sheraton Restaurant 37 Psn Brooke, Sibu (6084 336 341)
Wang Hin Restaurant 1 Soon Hup Comm Complex, Miri (6085 413 129)
Sin Lung Sheng Fu Tiao Qiang Restaurant 10788 Jln Simpang Tiga, Kuching (6082 231 260)
Warung Nasi Kuning Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6016 809 1286)
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)
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, Clinic Chicken Kuching (6082 230 068)
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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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.
$
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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 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).
B u ses 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.
USEFUL local Malay words Good morning Good afternoon Goodnight Thank you You’re welcome What is your name? My name is … Excuse me Yes No How much? Where is the toilet? I want to go to … Turn right Turn left
Selamat pagi
Jalan terus
Selamat petang
Lapangan Terbang
Go straight Airport Selamat malam Town Terima kasih Home Sama-sama Shops Siapa nama awda? Eat Nama saya … Drink Maafkan saya Walk Ya Chicken Tidak Beef Berapa? Seafood Di mana tandas? Vegetables Saya mahu pergi ke... Rice Belok ke kanan 1, 2, 3...
Bandar Rumah Kedai Makan Minum Jalan-jalan Ayam Daging Makanan laut Sayur-sayuran Nasi Satu, Dua, Tiga...
Belok ke kiri
NUMBERS TO NOTE EMERGENCY Police 993 Fire 995 Ambulance 991 Directory enquiries 113 Darussalam Hotline 123 FLIGHT INFORMATION General 2331747 AIRLINES Royal Brunei Airlines 2212222, 2240500 Air Asia 2333045 Singapore Airlines 2244901/2/3/4 Cebu Pacific Air 2222666, 2227965, 2239888
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MEDICAL SERVICES RIPAS Hospital 2242424 Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) 2611433 Gleneagles JPMC 2611212 Tutong Hospital 4221336 Ext 991 Kuala Belait Hospital 3332366 Ext 991 Temburong Hospital 5221526 Ext 127 Unit1.45B, First Floor, The Mall, Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam BE3519
Tel: +673 245 7700 www.missha.net
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. Terminal 2 caters to low-cost carriers Air Asia, Cebu Pacific and Eastar Jet.
54
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 both airport terminals 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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biG screen
Movies to look out for this quarter AUG
SEP Johnny English Strikes Again
Starring Rowan Atkinson, Olga Kurylenko, Ben Miller and Emma Thompson
The Darkest Minds Starring Amandla Stenberg, Mandy Moore and Gwendoline Christie
The security of the British secret service is endangered when a criminal mastermind exposes the identities of all active undercover agents in Britain. The secret service can only turn to one man—the infamous Johnny English, who has since retired and is now dedicating his limited skills to teaching primary school children. Armed only with yesteryear’s analogue methods and a penchant for getting himself into hilariously awkward situations, he gears up for the ultimate showdown as he attempts to put a stop to the mastermind hacker.
JUL
AUG
Alpha
Starring Kodi Smit-McPhee, Leonor Varela and Jens Hultén
JUL
Set during the last Ice Age, a hunting expedition separates a young man from his tribe when he is thrown off a cliff and presumed dead. Coming to at the bottom of the cliff, the young man sets his mind on finding the way back to his family at all costs. His journey home is peppered with obstacles from wandering predators, until he meets an injured gray wolf that becomes a loyal companion in an adventure of a lifetime.
When a plague kills off a majority of the younger generation in America, the survivors find themselves developing special abilities which are deemed highly dangerous. Detained in internment camps, 16-year old Ruby bands together with other courageous teens as they take a stand against the authorities to seize back control of their own future.
SEP
SEP
the PREDAToR
Starring Olivia Munn, Jacob Tremblay, Sterling K. Brown and Keegan-Michael Key
Ant-Man and The Wasp
Starring Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Peña and Michelle Pfeiffer
Juggling between his responsibilities as a father and a superhero, Scott Lang once again dons his suit for combat when faced with a dire mission from Dr. Hank Pym and his daughter Hope. With Hope taking on The Wasp mantel, together they must fight side-by-side in a race to uncover important secrets from their past before it catches up to them.
AUG
Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again Starring Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth
The hit Broadway musical turned instant sing-a-long movie is finally back with its long-awaited sequel. The movie follows the original gang as they return to their Greek island where an anxious and pregnant Sophie seeks guidance on becoming a young mother.
The House with a Clock in its Walls
Starring Jack Black, Owen Vaccaro, Cate Blanchett and Kyle MacLachlan When 10-year-old Lewis moves in with his uncle Jonathan, he discovers a mysterious ticking that echoes within the walls of his new home. Knowing the potent clock to hold the power to end the world, uncle and nephew go on a frantic adventure filled with magical oddities, wizards and warlocks to locate it.
Christopher Robin
Starring Ewan McGregor, Jim Cummings, Hayley Atwell, Brad Garrett and Peter Capaldi
Based on the popular children’s tale, we meet Christopher Robin as a tired grown-up with a small family of his own. After a sudden work obligation forces him to back out of a family trip much to the disappointment of his little daughter, Christopher Robin is left disenchanted by his adult working life. But it doesn’t take long for his Hundred Acre Wood comrades to swoop in and remind him of the forgotten treasures of a childlike imagination.
When a group of troubled military veterans are admitted into a medical center, they realize that they have been targeted by the U.S. military for witnessing the landing of a Predator ship in a suburban neighborhood. Deciding to hunt down the deadly alien themselves, they enlist the help of scientists and a little boy with the ability to decipher the language of the Predator species.
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