BiG Magazine July/September 2022 Issue by CHMP MEDIA

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Editor’s Note Hello and welcome back dear Borneo! It’s been a while … or at least, it certainly feels that way for the biG Team and I, as life has been a non-stop whirlwind of activity this quarter. Courtesy of our friends next door at the Singapore Tourism Board, I have no doubt that you have all figured out by now that we kick-started the second half of 2022 in spectacular fashion by going on an adventure beyond our shores. As part of Singapore’s national campaign for strengthening its status as a Covid-Resilient Nation, the Lion City has spent the past 2 years reimagining the future of global travel to its doorstep. Whether you are inbound on an SQ flight, navigating through the contactless immigration system, or out dining, shopping, and enjoying leisurely activities, the experience is increasingly streamlined, hygienic and hassle-free. All to the great appreciation of wary jetsetters balancing out 2 years of uncertainty with their desire to resume travel once more in a world reopening in the wake of the pandemic. Well, we bit the bullet and made the journey, so we could tell you loud and clear that you have nothing to worry about. The only question you should be asking yourself is, “Why have I not bought myself a ticket yet?” Arrheemm! - School holidays soon (wink, wink). So do checkout some of the locales we had the opportunity to visit in Part 1 of our Singapore Special this issue. So, what else is new? Well, I won’t lie everyone but over the past few months I have been quite annoyed at the number of large families I have observed with their faces glued to the screens of their phones and tablets while at a dinner table. This led to some serious snooping as I sought alternative forms of entertainment that did not require gadgets. My wannabee Batman-esque detective work was not in vain as I unearthed a large number of Bruneian creatives who since 2019 have created a diverse selection of unique card games as their side-hustles. More than just an attempt to promote stronger and direct human-to-human interaction in a fun setting, the very ideas and concepts behind these games are also rather ingenious. Yet one more reminder of just how creative my fellow countrymen and women actually are. So show them some love and check out their products listed online, or better yet, stop by the Wild Magic store and community hub in Serusop, and play a friendly game with the staff onsite. Another alternative to scrolling through your devices is to flip through the pages of a book instead, such as the Bruneian and Malaysian publications discovered this quarter. From a 127-strong gallery of exotic Bornean birds, and a hip modernisation of local Malay folklore, to the poetic musings of a young self-published author from Subang Jaya, there is more to life than staring at your phone or Youtube. My attempts at offloading snippets of wisdom aside, I think it might now be best for me to take my leave. So sit back, and enjoy a drink as you flip through our latest offerings, and stay tuned for Part 2 of our Singapore adventure in our next issue. Until next we meet, go travel somewhere!

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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.

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Let your child study and be inspired by the unique tropical environment of Brunei! An ‘outstanding’ HMC co-educational thriving boarding and day school for 1680 students aged 2-18 years from 55 countries. Jerudong International School (JIS) has a long established history and close relationship with UK military families posted to the Brunei Garrison. Nestled close to the coast, JIS boasts well qualified academic staff in state-of-the-art facilities on its 120 acre campus. It is a leading school in Southeast Asia preparing students for I/GCSEs, A Levels and the IB Diploma. “The quality of boarding provision and the care the boarders receive at JIS is outstanding” PENTA International (UK Government Inspection) January 2019

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BiG Openings

23 contents

19 Bubbly Minds 20 From Book Hater to Best Selling Author 21 A Bookworm’s Sweet Spot BiG OPENINGS New businesses & Pursuits 22 Diamond in the Rough 23 Families that Eat Together, Stay Together 24 Kopitiam by Day, Café by Night 25 Berry Wonderful & Life is Short, Eat Dessert First BiG FEATURE Guess Where we went this Quarter 26 Passion made Possible 28 Earth’s Largest Greenhouse 29 Journey to the Lost World 30 You just got Served 31 Scrolling down Memory Lane 32 Let the Fun Resume! 33 Seriously Fun Thymes 34 Hawker Centre Reimagined 35 A Jewel Like No Other

16 BiG Scoop

BiG TRAVEL The Time has Come! 6 Our Travel Pearls 8 Travel Hacks

BiG SCOOP Things we discovered this quarter 16 Getting Jiggy with it & Now that is cute! 17 Balms for the Soul & Play my way with polymer clay

BiG FOCUS Away from Screen Time 10 Playing your Cards Right 15 What about our BiG READS Neighbours? Read, Lead, Succeed 18 I Spy with my EOS R5

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

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BiG APPETITE We try the food so you can follow suit 36 Brunei food reviews 37 Sarawak & Sabah restaurant reviews 40 Restaurant listings in Brunei 46 Restaurant listings in Borneo BiG SCREEN Our latest round of recommended films 54 What’s going on next door? 55 Movies to look out for this quarter BiG Feature

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WAN ZAINAL

travel

OUR TRAVEL

PEARLS Three years into the pandemic, the stabilisation of travel activities in several markets worldwide indicates that the world is striving to become our oyster once more. In laymen terms: if you are dying to hop on a plane to somewhere near or far, the time is now. To be honest, I did not have to tell you this. Borneans, like their counterparts around the world, have been cooped up for so long that the moment restrictions on many destinations were lifted, tickets were being sold faster than a restock of chicken nuggets. At the time of this publishing, quite a few people have already traveled to Singapore and Malaysia for overdue getaways. This got the biG Team thinking as to where oh where, do we plan to runaway to. Like you, we have been thinking about this for more than 800 days.

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I was one of the lucky few who managed to travel in November 2021, during the height of the pandemic. It was a trip to London on family matters, so I would not actually call it my dream holiday. Since then I have travelled to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore in the past few months too. But these popular regional destinations still don't quite tick my dream destination list! If I really have to pick a destination, it would have to be Japan, which is incidentally the last country I travelled to before lockdown. From food to culture and shopping to fashion, it's the most exciting place on the planet to feed your wanderlust. I would like to fly into Tokyo and splurge on some shopping at my favourite boutiques like Beams, Tomorrowland, Issey Miyake, Junya Watanabe and Jun Hashimoto while eating at my favourite Japanese restaurants that range from no star to three stars. When I am all satiated with the food and fashion, I would end my trip in Kyoto by revisiting the 300-year-old Tawaraya where I had my first ryokan experience many years ago. Reputed to be the best ryokan in Japan, this architect owned property is understatedly beautiful and is filled with many gorgeous artefacts and curios that the owners have accumulated over the years.

ROZMAN Prior to Covid my travel plans rotated between visiting my sister in the UK one year, followed by visiting my brother in Australia the following year. Both destinations made up 1 of the 2 getaways I would make annually, with the second destination usually being a place I had never been to before. My last trip was to Japan in November 2019 where I explored Tokyo in all its glory. As much as I love my siblings and do look forward to a catch-up, I am dying to resume my solo travels around this beautiful planet. As cliché as it may sound for a person in my position, I am actually looking quite forward to roaming around Kota Kinabalu in Sabah. After all, I did join the magazine 6 months after Covid began, and the 2 years spent staring at Borneo under a magnifying glass has borne fruit.

YING As a surfer in Brunei, the changing climate means a shorter and more inconsistent monsoon swell – If you asked me where I would like to take a holiday to, my answer will always be ‘anywhere with waves’. The idyllic Mentawai Islands, although not the closest place for a surf, has consistent and world class conditions in endless blue water, where I would be able to spend all day in the ocean and never worry that the swell will not be around tomorrow.

YASMIN

AQILAH Discovering the beauty of the world, strolling around the unfamiliar street and savouring the unique dishes are usually what excites me to travel. Furthermore, I fondly anticipate on filming the journey and making a video out of it once I reach home. It somehow became my goal to travel at least twice a year; before the pandemic struck that is. Lately, I’ve been reminiscing a lot on the good old times I had while studying in Penang back in 2016. I am longing to go back there, with my family, and trace back my journey. Loads of new exciting places have opened up since then. I’m excited to discover the mural art at Chew Jetty, experience the skywalk at the top of Komtar and definitely going back to the completed Escape Theme Park for some thrill. After all, what’s a better way to release stress other than screaming your lungs out at a theme park?

The last time I was tugging luggage in the Land of the Rising Sun was more than 10 years ago and it was a mere week-long family vacation. In a blink, I was on the flight back home, feeling unsatisfied. A week was definitely not enough. A major pandemic, a binge watch of the Midnight Diner series, and some years of maturing later, has Japan taking the throne at the top of my travel wish list. I would love to get a gap month, get a ticket to Japan, start from Hokkaido and make my way down to Kyushu before settling back into Tokyo to re-immerse myself in the sights, sounds, culture and of course, the food. I will definitely remember to set aside funds dedicated to trying out all those different vending machines this time round.

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Travel Hacks

Flights are rarely enjoyable but there are definitely ways to make the experience easier and more manageable. With flights schedules resuming, you might be a little out of practice, so we have compiled 10 hacks that will guarantee you an easier journey!

The Right Bag:

Packing your suitcase or bag can be an existential nightmare. Although space saving organisers are not a new thing, you might be surprised at the variety of item specific bags out there. Choose organisers based on the items you want to bring – a shoe bag will have the right sturdiness and depth to protect them from getting smooshed during the flight. If you are in a real pinch and can’t find any, then mesh laundry bags with a zip can be a decent last-minute replacement. They also come in different sizes so you can separate your belongings accordingly. This small move will save you heaps of time!

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Know your Options:

We’ve all been there: missed flights, last minute cancellations or just a complete change of plans. As much as we hate clicking that little button to opt in for travel insurance, the extra fee brings you the peace of mind you need for a stress-free flight! Just make sure to really read the terms and conditions so you know what circumstances you’re actually covered for. Don’t want to take on travel insurance? Check if your flight ticket has the flexibility to be changed or sold on if you need to, prior to booking, and you’ll save yourself a whole lot of unnecessary worrying. This information will

normally be stated in any online booking processes or can be shared by your booking agent.

Get Comfy!

It really does make a huge difference what your wear and although you might want to throw on a pair of heels or skinny jeans for that perfect airport instapic, sitting for hours in that can make your flight extremely unpleasant once the pressurised cabin air starts to take effect. Loose clothing and layers also mean you can add or remove clothing as needed (we all know how quick the planes and airports can shift between tropical vibes to Antarctic winter). Think light t-shirts, hoodies or

sweaters, scarves, loose pants or leggings. Ditch heeled shoes for trainers or flat shoes.

Hydrate x 1,000:

Airplanes are drier than a baby biscuit, so drinking extra water is a given but you can boost your body and skin’s hydration with a few extra tricks. Pack some Oral Rehydration Salts that you can get easily at any pharmacy or doctor’s office, and make it on the plane with your reusable water bottle. Want an extra lick of moisture to make sure your skin stays quenched? Grab some samples of hydrating face masks or creams from your favorite, and apply liberally once you’re on the plane (with clean hands!).

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Internet, Anywhere:

Ah, the collective rush to find a sim card operator or WiFi connection upon touchdown. Skip the endless queuing and save time, and in the long run, maybe money too with either a portable mobile hotspot or Wifi internet dongle. These devices have come a long way since they entered the market and accessibility and quality of connections has improved. These devices also provide a more secure connection so you can surf stress-free.

Up Top:

Pre-flight security checks are a bummer, especially when you have a carry-on bag or luggage. A little organisation can go a long way to making sure you breeze through as quick as possible. Pack all the things you’ll need to get checked or scanned at the top of your bag, and secured altogether so you don’t have to dig into the bottom of your bag if you are asked to remove items for checking. Some airports even allow for a faster processing line for a fee. This privilege is also sometimes attached to purchased access to airport lounges – another great hack if you’re in transit and the waiting time is long. If you decide not to leave the airport itself during a long layover, the lounges are a great way to make the trip a lot more comfortable. They often include free meals, free WIFI, resting areas and best of all, hot showers.

A Thousand Miles:

If you are not already on the airline miles game, it’s definitely time to get on it. Discounted flights, upgraded seats or even free checked baggage allowance – these

perks are really worth the hype if you travel even twice a year. Since there are lots of options to choose from, it’s helpful to narrow down based on your destinations and the airlines that service them. Star Alliance is one of the biggest groups that includes major South-east Asian airlines like EVA air and Cathay Pacific but if you are really only flying to one destination often then it’s best to pair up with the programme run by those particular companies to maximise your points collection and redemption opportunities!

Wild Things:

This one’s for the parents out there – travelling with kids does not need to be an anxiety inducing journey. Taking advantage of the free kid’s play areas or taking them for a walk around the airport is good way to get little ones tired out so they will end up sleeping on the plane ride. It does double duty by helping you get some good blood flow going pre-flight (this can relieve general stiffness and aches from sitting down for too long).

Shh:

Shut the world out, literally. Noise-cancelling headphones bring your flight comfort to the next level. Crying baby? Snoring seat neighbour? Angry Karen in the front aisle? They will be a thing of the past if you invest in a pair. To make plane naps easier, opt for ones that are lightweight and fit in your ears as opposed to bulkier over your ear styles if you are heading on a longer flight.

Let’s Hear it for the Snack Life:

This is pretty much the answer to every minor problem, especially if you’re travelling with kids. Pack as many healthy options as you can before resorting to chippies or chocolate. Choosing food from the dietary restrictions section when you book a ticket also helps to make sure you get your meal before everyone else and usually ends up being a much healthier, fresher meal than what’s on offer.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

focus

ZED PEACE

TEAM EICO

HAFIDZ YAKOB

COMET GAMES ENTERPRISE

EICO GAMES

GUARDIAN GAMES

From university students taking breaks between classes, to colleagues killing time at the office, all of us can relate to the creators of the 2022 card game Monsters of Chaos. Getting bored is human nature, so when confronted with ample spare time one day, marketing executive Haji Abdul Azim Haji Mohd Said roped his colleague Dewi Amalia binti Haji Hidup into playing a competitive card game. As this activity became more routine, and with the addition of Mohammad Yusuf Abu Bakar to the deck, the trio set out to create something all their own. These core founders comprise the soul of the group. Backed up by five supporting units who comprise the group’s backbone by assisting with research, mechanics, and graphics, to troubleshooting via play-testing, they went on to form Team Eico.

Studying any aspect of medicine is a lengthy process, and at times can be stressful. A form of therapy that enabled this creative whiz to unwind was playing numerous board and card games while in the UK. With locales such as Games & Latte, as well as Nerdee Café in Brunei allowing him to continue doing so after returning back home, it did not take long before he took his passion one step further. The founder of Guardian Games, Hafidz Yakob went on to create Rainbow Madness, and Agung, in 2021. With a few other ideas for potential future projects swimming around in his head, this humble fellow also acts as an advisor of sorts for others following his steps within Brunei’s tight-knit gaming community.

For those among us familiar with the more modern facets of entertainment culture in our Sultanate, the name Zed Peace is one we know well. For those who are not: meet our resident go-to hip-hopper (and a pretty good one at that). What may surprise you is that growing up in the era of competitive Pokemon card games, of which he is a fan, the man who founded Comet Games Enterprise is a thoughtful individual with a great appreciation for our national roots and history. Armed with effective research skills to mirror his quality verses, 2020 was the year he delivered us Letters to Brooketon, followed by the unearthing of Agro’s different food groups in 2021 from the seeds sown by his imagination. •• IG: @cometgamesent

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

•• IG: @eico.games

•• IG: @Guardiangames.bn

Play Your Car

Life is similar to a deck of best that you can with the you. Whether you start off to work tirelessly to buff u talents in order to catch up of our ability to strategise grand game of life. Creativ over the past couple of ye to the table with a glint in their smiles, as they layou showcases ingenuity, and that phone, put down tha from your monitor, and lea in this day and age it is mo we go back to basics and e interaction and to have fun way to do just that. Have

Venue: W No.18, 1st Flr, Bangunan De

ying rds Right

f cards. You do the utmost e hand that fate has dealt favourably, or are required up your personal skills and p, the end game is a result e in order to succeed in the vity takes many forms and ears, Bruneians have come n their eyes and an edge to ut a variety of games that imagination. So put down at tablet. Take a step away ave behind your screen. For ore important than ever that embrace human-to-human in the process. Here, is one a seat everyone, I’ll deal.

Wild Magic esa Delima, Spg 44, Serusop

YAZIN YAHYA

JOANITA

WILD MAGIC

JELLYBEAN DREAMS

A veteran of Brunei’s myriad gaming circles back in the day, and now a key member of the still-growing larger community of our current times; Yazin grew up exposed to the Dungeons & Dragons fantasy tabletop role-playing game as well as the Magic the Gathering collectible card game. The artwork was cool, the games imaginative, the competition fierce. Little did he know however, was that this early exposure would lead to him founding Wild Magic in March 2019. The locale serves the dual purpose of being a retail store for all of Brunei’s hobby, and tabletop gaming needs, as well as increasingly playing a larger role as a communal hub for gatherings of geeky and nerdy gamers (myself included). A big proponent and supporter of creatives in Brunei making games locally, Yazin himself launched a tactical strategy card game called Everlight.

An artist gifted with creative tendencies, Joanita was once a brush wielding force to be taken seriously. I say ‘was’ not due to a decline in activity but because she stayed in sync with the times we live in. Embracing the transition to the digital age saw her arm herself with her new weapons of choice, a stylus and tablet. While playing a mix and match memory recall game themed around Australia with her daughter one day, she was asked why there was not a Brunei-themed equivalent. This led to the creation of Beautiful Brunei in 2021, followed by Moons & Masjids in 2022 – mix & match sets both educational and representative of our home. Going by the moniker Jellybean Dreams, and with her products being featured at conventions in Singapore and Dubai, her mission to take over the world one family at a time is well underway.

•• IG: @wildmagic @everlightccg

•• IG: @jellybeandreams

SHANNON OSMAN Are you familiar with earworms? You know, that moment when a melody is stuck in your head on repeat for so long you need to sing your heart out to remove all traces of it. Now imagine that, but think card games. Even though Shannon Osman grew up playing board games, card games held little interest. So it struck her as a surprise when she developed an idea for one in 2020, which rattled within her skull until enough was enough and she converted her concept into something tangible called Kueh Ku! Stalking more than 300 designers on Instagram led to her assembling an all-women team of 4 others – all of whom had never met before – to design the cards, instruction manual and box packaging. Launched just a few months ago, she was surprised yet again, by the great reception it has received. •• IG: @kuehkubn

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

MONSTERS OF CHAOS From the collective depths of the minds that make up Eico Games comes their first official product, Monsters of Chaos. This fast paced and competitive card game rooted in the realms of fantasy is bound to have players giggling madly, as they watch and listen with glee to the voices of rival players rising several decibels upon realising that their impending victory is being snatched away in the blink of an eye. With 109 cards split into Hero, Action, and Tower decks; will you come out on top as the adventurer of the day, after slaying enough monsters to earn the 15 crystals needed to earn 1st-place bragging rights? Or will that smug look on your face rapidly disappear when someone plays a magic burst card that completely flips the tables on you? Conceptualised in March 2021 and turned into reality by January 2022, this is a game for between 2-5 players that can last from 30-45 minutes on average … unless of course you are too busy cursing at the other players. •• Available at: @Wild Magic @Magic Dungeon @Kitsu Models

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

RAINBOW MADNESS When you conjure up an image of a vibrant rainbow arcing across the horizon in all its glory, the last thing that comes to mind is the potential destruction of friendships. Exaggeration? … Maybe. It depends on how close they come to victory before you spoil their plans and seize the initiative in this easyto-play and relatively fast paced colour based game. Brunei’s answer to UNO (yes, I am aware how strong this statement is); Rainbow Madness will see players trying to collect all the seven colours of the rainbow in order to win, while actively preventing each other from doing so. Whether you take a player’s cards outright, or swap them with ones they do not want, or foil their plans by using a spectrum card to cancel their actions, this game for 2-5 players can be settled in just 15-30 minutes. The first of homegrown Guardian Games’ lineup of products, the beauty of this game lies in its simple yet effective mechanics. Race you to the rainbow! •• Available at: @Wild Magic @Magic Dungeon @Kitsu Models

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AGRO

Hungry for more? Of course you are, which is why Comet Games has got you covered, though, they are going to make you work for it as you harvest crops in this fast paced game. With 2-6 players racing to see who can accumulate 250 points first, get ready to familiarise yourself with a variety of homegrown produce that makes

cards until a player satisfies the requirements to harvest them for points. With action cards and recipe cards added to the mix, the game is spiced up further. Rival farmers can earn points earlier than usual or take advantage of moves made by others. So don your wide brimmed rattan hat and engage in a fun game that proves there is often beauty in simplicity. •• Available at: @cometgamesent

up the staple of a Bruneian diet. Split into vegetable, fruit and cereal categories; each of these cards, which are worth a different number of points must be connected to an initial agricultural HQ card placed in a central position at the start of the game. From papayas and rambutans (fruit), to corn and sweet potato (cereal), as well as bean sprouts and egg plants (vegetables), these are just some of the produce that need to be connected with matching

AGUNG

Thinking caps on everyone. Engage in a round of strategic planning, as political intrigue abounds in this 1 to 4-person card game that will see players immersed within the maneuverings of the Malay royal court. Created at the end of 2021 by Guardian Games, the mechanisms and matching artwork is a respectful nod to Malay Archipelago-based ethnic cultures and a terrific tribute to the local gaming scene. From the Pahlawan, Temangong, and Permaisuri, to the Laksamana, Shahbandar, and Raja himself; 10 unique character cards spread across 4 different classes (Crown, Shield, Sword, Scroll) are assigned to competitors who will battle it out in 4 distinct phases (Declarations 1 and 2, Reveals 1 and 2). Assembling your deck into a front and back row affects what abilities can be brought to bear; from ousting or protecting cards of a similar class, to shifting card locations which can affect your total score. So will you succeed in making your Title Claim, or will the secretive Agent cards who bribe, act as decoys, and scheme behind the scene earn you the right to call yourself Agung. There is only one way to find out. •• Available at: @Wild Magic , @Magic Dungeon and @Kitsu Models

LETTERS TO BROOKETON A genre with whodunit vibes that brings to mind the classic board game called Cluedo; Letters to Brooketon is a surprisingly meaningful tribute to factual events in Brunei’s history. Based on the 1890s–1920s when coal was being mined in Muara Town, as part of Rajah Brooke’s area of governance, competitors take on the role of miners in this 3-6 player game. There is one problem however, as not everyone is who they may seem. Is it the lady to your left? Is it the fellow to your right? Nobody knows, and this is the goal of the game as player’s trade accusations among one another and are even required to provide proof to back it up too! Steps will be taken. Mistakes will be made. All anyone can truly say is that there is a mole in the group, and for the record, it may very well be you. The 3rd product in the Comet Games lineup, this game that takes around 20-30 minutes to play is a clever undertaking that is equal parts entertaining and thought-provoking. Will you be the one to topple the White Rajah? After all, one man’s mole is another man’s freedom fighter. •• Available at: @CometGamesEnterprise @Games & Latte

EVERLIGHT Things just got dialed up to an 11 and this is the furthest statement possible from an exaggeration. Everlight the Card Game is a tactical 2-player ‘mano y mano’ competitive game packed full of fine details. From the artwork of its champions, heroes, and allies, to the mechanics utilised in-game that have been extensively put through the grinder. Beta-testers from the US, the UK, Malaysia, and

Yazin’s inner circle in Brunei helped hammer out the fine points to ensure a well-balanced and smooth in-game progression. From adding adjacent allies’ defensive values onto your own to survive a round of combat, to activating an exult ability to lessen the blow from losing an encounter, to being on death row nearby the graveyard; the devil is in the details as players compete for victory points.

With several easy-to-follow tutorials online it is not hard to understand, however, the best teacher in life will always be the well-versed player sitting opposite you. Players such as those found at the Everlight founder’s other creation – the community hub known as Wild Magic. •• IG: @wildmagic @everlightccg

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BEAUTIFUL BRUNEI + MOONS & MASJIDS The Wild Card in the deck for this quarter’s gathering, because while not taking the form of a card game per se, the concept of Match & Play games has been around for as long as I can remember. I loved them as a kid and 30+ years later I still enjoy them as an adult. A simple premise to be sure; from visual memory and discrimination to identifying patterns and similarities, this is a fun way to teach problem solving and fine motor skills to young children at a key stage of their early development. What makes the Beautiful Brunei, and Moons and Masjids games particularly appealing is the tone they strike with local culture, religion, and life in general in Brunei. These 32 tiled (16 paired images) box sets naturally goes even further courtesy of the lovely artwork making up their aesthetics. Digitally designed by Joanita, who prior to this creation had already garnered a reputation for herself as not just an artist, but via her first ever product – Blessed Baby Milestones – 30 cards representing a child’s first year of life and significant events in between. •• Available at: @peekaboutique.bn @mothercarebrunei @jellybeandreams

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

KUEH KU! Hari Raya Aidilfitiri has been taken to new heights as a delicious Malay twist is thrown into the mix. Kueh Ku is a fast paced game that revolves around the oh-my-nommygoodness treats that we have all come to associate with this time of year. From Kueh Penyaram and Kueh Batik, to Kueh Cincin and my all-time personal favourite, Seri Muka; different snacks are worth a different number of points. With adorably cute artwork that its illustrator coincidentally started sketching out for fun prior to being made part of this project, players compete to amass the

most points. Not as easy as you might think. The Kueh Sampit forces another player to trade their entire hand with yours. The Nini (grandma) card makes you lose an entire turn. The Kueh Mor is a double edged knife that can either earn you loads of points, or actually net you nothing at all. Nothing however compares with the chaos caused by Onde-Onde, as every single player is forced to get up, switch seats with the person next to them, taking ownership of the other player’s hand in the process. Bring your sweet tooth to the table! •• Available at: @kuehkubn

THE LEPAK GAME (2016)

Ideal for between 4-8 players, The Lepak Game is basically a spin-off from the popular Cards Against Humanity, except in this instance players are required to provide “the most Malaysian response possible”. After a player reads out a specific scenario, the remainder picks relatable responses that range from being crude and ironic to downright hilarious. •• IG: @rojakculture

THE CIKGU LIFE (2018)

From grading assignments and students, to finishing your paperwork and dealing with an overly bureaucratic school system, experience the life of a teacher in this funny Malaysian classroom board game. Every player receives a different type of school category such as rural, vernacular,

What About our Neighbours? While Brunei’s wonderful creatives are the new kids on the block, our neighbours in Malaysia and Singapore are old hats at this as they have a pretty large offering to contribute to the domestic and regional markets, dating back as early as 2013. With a myriad selection here are the 5 forms of good old fashioned interactive entertainment that caught our eyes.

HAWKER WARS (2021)

In a contest to accumulate the most number of points; players select their unique hawker stall, then race to obtain the necessary ingredients required to cook up a variety of dishes. There’s flour, chilli, noodles and more, that can be used to prepare nasi lemak, fish head curry and Ma La Xiang Guo, just to note a few. Players get to sabotage others by inflating prices, gaining family recipes, and suspending licenses, in this fun game brought to us by the creators of The Singaporean Dream. •• IG: @hawkerwarsgame

THE SINGAPOREAN DREAM (2018)

KAKI LIMA (2019) From its beautiful streets and heritage sights to the welcoming community and delicious food, Kaki Lima takes everything that people love about Penang and placed it right into a board game. With characters based on actual Georgetown residents

boarding, and special education and more, providing you with different privileges and challenges. Let’s just say by the game’s end, you are likely to have a better appreciation of what teachers go through. •• IG: @thecikgulife

that the artist creator has spotted, players walk around card tiles to reach places on their task list in this cute tribute. •• IG: @kakilimacardgame

What comprises the Singaporean Dream? Is it a 5-room flat in Punggol with a walk-in-wardrobe? A cushy day job with guaranteed mid-year and year-end bonuses? A place for your kids at a prestigious school or the ability to travel worldwide when you please? Find out in this humorous card game in which 2-6 players are encouraged to steal, sabotage, and pay their way toward becoming the perfect Singaporean. A Malaysian edition was released in 2019. •• IG: @thesingaporeandream

scoop

Getting Jiggy with it Graphic artists tend to live life at both ends of a professional creative spectrum. On one end you have the struggling artist whose art is often undervalued. A shame given the uniqueness of the creations they produce. On the other you have the entrepreneur who through their works are able to collaborate with various companies that use their prints in one form or another. Take Ashikin Hussin from Sabah for example, better known by her nickname Eureka,

of Eureka Art Studio. Her digital artworks have led to enamel pins, badges, fridge magnets, stickers, mugs, posters, notebooks, and headscarves bearing the fruits of her imagination. In my eyes however, none of these compare to the 500-piece jigsaw puzzles that she has produced in collaboration with

the likes of @repiecepuzzles and @galisonpuzzles. These puzzles are a whimsical take on celestial bodies and stargazing, blending cute elements with her appreciation for the diamond encrusted night sky. This is just one source of ideation as she gets her inspiration from all that

Now that is cute! Caricature artists are illustrators who are loved the world over for their oft times comical yet accurate representations of people. While this style of sketch-art can differ depending on who wields the pen, the artworks they produce are usually popular. Meshing elements of Japanese anime with the comical style prevalent in the Malay Archipelago just happens to be the what the “scribble-scribble” mind behind Komei Playground does best. In addition to her overly cute depictions of her clientele, this illustrator works toward getting 16

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is around her. As busy as she always seems to be, when your work revolves around that which you love, there will always be more to come. Do check her out as these puzzles are but the tip of the iceberg. •• IG: @eurekaartstudio her brand and style to adorn other mediums. From floral tote bags, notepads, and mobile phone covers, to washi emoji tape, and a series of postcards of the different Malaysian states, the cute selection is, well, difficult to describe other than simply being that, very cute. The wooden square shaped clock that doubles as a storage box, and is adorned with her artwork is actually kind of clever and a slight break away from the norm, and makes for a potentially interesting décor piece. Though she is a fan of pastel colours, it is easy to conclude that lavender is obviously one of her favourites hues. Keep an eye open at your next community pop-up event, for she attends them regularly. •• IG: @komeiplayground

Balms for the Soul Courtesy of their passive remedial qualities, balms have been in use for centuries by communities worldwide. A mix of oils, wax, and butter, these balms are thick enough to create a protective barrier for our skin, acting as a shield against the elements. Their refinement over the years has led to the inclusion of other ingredients with other beneficial properties. This is of no surprise to most people. What is surprising (to me anyway!), was the discovery of Soulistic Garden, which has been around in Sarawak since 2018. Hand crafting a variety of balms to promote healthy living through the use of natural remedies, there are currently 6 different types made for differing scenarios. The sleep balm promotes a good snooze, and the calm balm (well played) is a mood aid. The hand, belly and pediheal balms help with the physical repair of cracked skin, further boosted by lavender, Myrrh, and lemon infusions. It certainly sounds fancy to those of us who are strangers to natural remedies, but these ingredients are all supplements that over a long duration of time have been proven to improve quality of health ever so slightly. The best seller without any doubt is the eczema balm. Given the intensity of our tropical climate, this small portable balm offers relief to many with this condition. Check it out! •• IG: @soulistic_garden Tel: 6013-8117878

Play my Way with Polymer Clay I have a question everyone. Have you ever seen a product that was aimed at a specific gender, but because it was so lovingly designed and painstakingly handcrafted that you (who happened to be the opposite gender) felt a little left out for not being part of that target market? In this progressive day and age this is an issuve that is increasingly irrelevant as we all, by right, should be allowed to adorn ourselves with what we choose. Traditionally however, despite the accessories created by Arthirah.mj falling

under the category of women’s jewellery, her creations are so lovely that I want some for myself. She has been doing this for a decade now and experience has certainly seen her skillset grow as the bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and rings she makes are gorgeous. Working primarily with clay and tiles, embellished with precious stones, attached to slender golden and silver chains, her range of accessories are impressive to say the least. The tiles series in particular have such strong Mediterranean vibes which

is an aesthetic that screams a simple elegance full of history and culture. Engaging in multiple collaborations with other designers whose artworks adorn several of her pieces, and getting her inspiration from myriad sources, a simple scroll through her feed reveals the evolution she has undergone from simple clay art to genuinely mature offerings that are often pretty and impressive. •• IG: @arthirah.mj Msha.ke/arthirah.mj/ Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

@Husini Bakar

reads

I Spy with my EOS R5 It is one thing to enjoy a pastime for its value as entertainment but what criteria, if any, catapults a person beyond that of an individual with a hobby, to that of a full blown passion that can define your life? Keep in mind that the term ‘passion’ is a one that is easily, and overly used in this day and age. There are many who profess to having a passion that proved to be little more than a passing interest at one stage of life. Not so in this instance. A gradual evolution of self led Husini Bakar – affectionately known among his contemporaries as Kantalensa – to become a skilled wildlife photographer with a strong penchant for avians. He will gladly shoot anything through his long lens such as monkeys and monitor lizards, but his admiration for macro photography and fine details resulted in a particular interest in spiders more so than anything else at first. It was not until 2012 however, when a trip with a group of friends turned into an impromptu birding

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expedition that he switched focus. Armed with his trusty Canon EOS R5, a long lens, and a strong collector’s mentality, he strove to document as many species of our feathered friends as possible within Brunei. Ticking off bird after bird on his mental checklist after every encounter, Husini is a man bursting at the seams with a youthful exuberance and almost child-like glee. The positive energy he emits is truly quite contagious, as he describes the numerous times he spent hours waiting for that perfect shot, or was finally able to snap a bird that had eluded him for years. He was actively involved in the country’s first official bird race in 2014, and is part of a small select group of birders who call themselves the White Crowners, in tribute to the White Crowned Hornbill. Having documented more than 200 species prevalent not just in Brunei, but across all Borneo, he felt the need to present the result of his endeavors in a publicised

format, in 2017. Alas, life gets in the way as it tends to do, and his desire was quashed … but not for long. Upon his retirement in 2019 he bit the bullet and began his self-funded process of producing 200 copies of this labour of love. Fast forward to February 2022, and with a wide grin and beaming eyes, he flipped through the pages of his Colourful Feathers – a large hardback book containing the photographs of 127 bird species. The star of the show for Husini? Why, that would be the Bornean Bristlehead, though, in the defence of every other bird, he has a good story to accompany each and every one. Acknowledging all the other things he has achieved in life, this book has far more personal gravitas to it. “This is my legacy,”

Husini begins before saying, “I want to be able to leave something behind that I was passionate about, that is proof of who I am, what I truly enjoyed in life. Something that my wife and children can refer to in the future so that they can think proudly of me.” •• IG: @mr.kantalensa

Bubbly Minds

As far as origin stories go, the tale of Parabelle Studios is at first glance a cute one. You would however, be quite amiss for judging this group of creatives by that cover alone. This is because despite the artwork of their first published book obviously having a stronger appeal to a young female audience (it gave me Little Mermaid kind of vibes) – not only is the nature of the story one of relevance to all Bruneians, but Parabelle’s overarching goal is an admirable one.

After taking the time to pop the many titular bubbles floating around the heads of Parabelle themselves, it becomes evidently clear that the group’s founder, Tina Afiqah, is a lady with a plan. Backed up by Sarah Halim, Azra Hasnan, and Dayah Azhar – who all round off this solid roster of girl power in their roles as writers, artists, animators, and musicians – this is a grouping with the potential to boost reading culture in Brunei. A bookworm with a love of everything Disney, Tina spent many years living in New Zealand, the UK, and South Korea before returning to Brunei. Rediscovering her heritage, she enjoyed learning about the myriad array of myths, legends, and folklore associated with the diverse cultures populating the island. She did not enjoy the realisation that the stories forming the essence of Dayak tribal groups in Brunei such as the Iban, Dusun and Murut for example, were either not being appreciated to the degree they should be, or were being disregarded entirely altogether

by the younger generation. Enter ‘The Bubble Princess and The Stone Heart’, a modern-day retelling of two 16th Century folklore tales known as ‘Lela Mencanai and Jong Batu’. Presented in a hip, new light to captivate the younger generation, what was once viewed by kids as ‘one of those boring tales grandpa used to tell us’, is transformed into a story of adventure that reignites a proud appreciation of their cultural history. With their first batch of 400 books completely sold out, Parabelle has begun collaborating with the Jerudong International School to turn the story into a musical by 2023. Its second book, ‘Bubbly Thoughts of the Stone Hearted’, covers poetry, peribahasa, and quotes, and interestingly material was contributed by 14 writing advocates who were fans of the first book. Already, Tina

is rewriting the entire story so she can present it as a second edition because you know, perfectionists need to do perfectionist things. With a ‘Frog beneath the Shell’ children’s book launched, and illustrator Azra currently working on a book for the studio too, Parabelle is certainly keeping themselves busy. With 50% of their sales going to the Paws Up Centre for helping strays, Parabelle earns major biG brownie points with us. •• IG: @Parabelle.studios

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time, with naps in between. I read on trains, in long queues and on beaches too. I always have a book in my hand wherever I go. biG: Has your love for music and composing influenced your decision to write poetry? Are there any pieces you have turned into actual songs or vice versa?

biG: You mention that writers must remember they are writing for the public. Do you find yourself consciously editing your creative process? CO: Yes, if that is their goal for writing. Writing for personal growth, however, has no rules! I have to consider a lot of things when writing for the public such as omitting controversial, sensitive, and religious content in order to reach a wider audience. I'm just thinking about distribution, distribution, distribution. We've sold about 30,000 poetry books so far since my company's inception in 2016 and only when I have a large enough voice, I would then be more daring to write about more controversial matters.

From Book Hater to

Best Selling Author It seems almost impossible, when you look through all of Charissa Ong’s publishing achievements and remember that she is just shy of 25 years. The statistic? 30,000 books sold under her five-year-old Malaysian publishing house, Penwings, reaching and winning coveted spots on the best-sellers list and for best cover design. Her 2016 debut ‘Midnight Monologues’ is an illustrious poetry collection succeeded by ‘Daylight Dialogues’ and ‘Poetry and Short Stories: A Practice Book’. She began writing and reading to heal from her college heartbreak, later becoming encouraged to publish her work by fans on Instagram. Disappointing rejections and responses from Malaysian publishers frustrated her so much that she decided to literally do it herself. With two Southeast Asian authors under Penwings – the sky’s the limit for her burgeoning empire. •• IG: @penwingspublishing @cotypoems 20

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biG: How did the Twilight books enable you to move from being a self-professed book hater, to the avid reader and writer you are today? CO: The grammar she used was simple enough for me to understand and challenging enough for me to want to learn their definitions. It has a low barrier of entry and I feel many people in this day and age can relate. I do the same with my books where I begin with short poems and then progressively increase the length to prose and then short stories to instill a love for reading in these book haters (like myself). biG What does your ideal reading nook and situation look like? CO: Just my couch, and hot tea. I could stay there for 8 hours at a

CO: Yes! I had a piece called 'Missing Melody' where I launched a competition on social media to see who can layer a melody over the lyrics I wrote. I also compose songs for clients, freelance. I see all my work as songs, that's why I value rhyming so much. It has a sense of magic and nostalgia to them. biG: Did the design course you enrolled in play any role in your publishing house? CO: The twinning programme was a collaboration between my college and the University of Hertfordshire. The only thing I used from my studies is the logo from the personal branding module where I had to create a name card, resume, etc for my project. The Penwings Logo. I had no dreams to publish at all until I graduated college and started to write more on my personal blog. I thought I was going to be a short stories writer! But it's much easier to write poetry, commitment-wise. biG: You have admitted that English books are still the preferred market to sell in. Do you foresee that changing in the future? CO: I'm fluent in English (it's my first language) and Bahasa Malaysia. My Chinese is about the same level as my French beginner to intermediate. Books can always be translated, so language isn't quite a big concern to me. It's just that it's a bit tricky with poetry when things tend to be lost in translation. People are becoming more empathetic, closer, and curious in this day and age. I can still see English being used as a medium to connect us all around the world. Until translation services and software get better of course.

A Bookworm’s Sweet Spot to see a concept such as this given physical, tangible form. Thank goodness for those among us blessed with that pioneering spirit that pushes them to take such a leap of faith, because honestly, our Sultanate is made a richer place for it.

Well, well. What do we have here? Situated on the first floor of the Higher Complex in Kiulap, and down a narrow corridor, is a space that epitomises one young lady’s passion for literature. Before I begin this brief story and flip to page 1, I feel the need to mention that as a bookworm myself, and against the context of life in Brunei, never did I expect

The Honey Book Store, while being quite a small space is an intimate spot filled with a warm energy and vibe conducive to lovers of stories. While other mediums such as movies, TV series, as well as video games come equipped with good writing and a variety of interesting plots, the greatest source of storytelling comes from the spine bound pages of the humble book. With an efficient online reservation system in place, clientele can book single-hour slots to escape the hustle and bustle of life at this nook for much needed

private, quiet time with a good book. Tea is always on offer in a dimly lit space where rows of fairy lights stretch across the shelves of four display cabinets, illuminating the colour-coded contents populating their shelves. Miscellaneous items occupy the upper limits, while colourful cushions rest against the lower. A single reading chair and side table are by the entrance, and if the weather is favourable, there is an outdoor area too. If you enjoy looking at aesthetic bookstagram accounts on IG, this place qualifies. Currently there is a 4-person limitation, but that might rise slightly in the future in tandem with small events that can be held here. Already, 2 bridal showers between small tight-knit groups of friends have taken place, as well as a ‘get-toknow-our-cats’ charity event. This cat daddy approves. As a young girl whose mother was often found flipping through page after page; Sally picked up reading as a pastime as a means to create a meaningful

connection, and it worked, as their relationship grew from this. Exposed to myriad writers and genres galore, their imaginations created a medium for both an escape from reality in works of fiction as well as practical real-life lessons that could be learnt and implemented in everyday reality. On a mission to promote a better reading culture nationwide, Sally used to help with the Big BWN Project by reading to young children at Kampong Ayer and Pusat Bahagia students too. Have you ever seen those Book Donation & Adoption boxes which can be found at several cafes nationwide? She set that up. Have you heard of Books Beyond Brunei? An online service bringing in publications upon request for you delve into. Yup, Sally again. So, the next time an urge to buy a book or desire to read in a new spot arises, consider this sweet spot. •• Open: 10am-6pm (Tues-Sun) IG: @thehoneybn @Booksbeyondbrunei booksbeyondbrunei.com

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openings

Diamond in the Rough So how do I get there again? Wait, what … keep an eye out for all the graffiti? Okay, if you say so. As it turns out, this proved to be a pretty accurate description. Nestled within what was once considered a dodgy run down area that people would steer away from at night; Batu Satu now plays base to the urban, hip, go-to coffee specialty providers going by the label Batches Coffee. Arriving on the scene in 2016 and whipping up cold brews for a thirsty public at pop-up events on hot days, the main duo behind this increasingly popular locale moved into the hood some 8 months ago. Commissioning the resident graffiti professionals that Brunei has come to know and love – The Guerilla Artchitects – the entire walkway to the rough concrete coffee house is splashed with vibrancy, which has drawn young working professionals and the youth like moths to the flame. Heck, people in my age group who

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wished we had these sort of features available to us in the mid-90s also make up part of the crowd. The pillars of a stretch of walkway, along with the shutters of long unused units play host to the rainbow in the form of artwork from popular Western and Eastern pop culture. Godzilla vs King Kong, Apu from the Simpsons who points the way, the simian better known to the NFT community as The Bored Ape, and an array of designs has turned the area into an urban oasis of colour that breathes life into its surroundings. There’s more. Two lengthy sections of wall are home to yet more artwork. A large centerpiece exists around the corner from the coffee house’s entrance, featuring the street artists’ logo, while Charlie Brown and the gang are presented with a slight Malay twist as they cruise down Jalan Bapaku.

After your eyes finish feasting on the visuals, head on inside. This is where the glorious coffee is after all. With specialty roasts sourced from Malaysia, Australia, and the UK – who in turn source their beans from Panama, Columbia, Brazil, Kenya, and Indonesia – it is a safe bet that a great cup of Joe awaits consumption right here. A grey laid back interior promotes a physical body cool-down from the heat outdoors, and while an outdoor section seats roughly 6 people, another 15 or so people are afforded a good amount of space inside. Everyone here is

friendly, the vibe is chilled, and Cushion the Cat comes and goes as he pleases. Final thought? It is about darn time we had an area like this to frequent. Well played Batches, well played. •• Unit 6, Ground Floor, Block C, Cenderawaseh Seri Sufri Complex, Batu Satu (Look for the street art!) Open: 7:30am-5pm (Mon-Thurs) 7:30am-8pm (Fri-Sat) Tel: 673-7142900 IG: @batchescoffee FB: Batches Coffee

Sugar is overrated, Have this instead

Families that eat together,

stay together It might be hard to imagine a restaurant that could cater to everyone, but Sip n’ Snack does a great job at it. Centered around food built for sharing and a welcoming ambiance, owner Dilys Chai is motivated by her father’s motto that ‘a family who eats together, stays together’. The menu is geared towards that, with big portions that invite diners to sit down and enjoy time together over delicious food and drinks. Keeping things in the family, Dilys shares the space with Sourdays Pizza, a venture that began with her brother’s lockdown sourdough baking and eventuated into the pizza business it is today. “It made sense to pair the (rest of the) menu with pizza, because we have the different items on the Sip n’ Snack menu that complement each other and I thought that it would be a good option to offer alongside the wraps and main dishes.” Although much of the menu

leans towards healthy Tex-Mex (avocados and house made sour cream in full abundance), there isn’t a specific cuisine that the restaurant focuses on. She also placed importance on freshness with the majority of food or ingredients made in-house. As risky as it is opening a restaurant in the midst of Covid-19, Dilys was set on the challenge and officially opened Sip n’ Snack in January of 2022. “I still prefer having (a physical space); it’s not quite the same when you’re taking all this food away. We want people to eat and have that experience of being out.” She is particularly happy to see that the menu has appeal across generations, with children bringing family members or parents, and friends, to Sip n’ Snack. ‘I thought about what would be a good snack to have’, Dilys explains of which items ended up making the final cut of menu tastings, adding that it was definitely a conscious

point to include more vegetable or vegetarian options for the growing consumer base. The people’s favourites so far? Big plates of chicken wings, thick quesadillas and chunky fistsized wraps or flavour packed burrito bowls heaped with tasty protein or a tender and smoky jackfruit. Need something to sip on over lunch or dinner? Old classics like a soothing Honey Lemon share menu space with café styled coffees and fresh juice mocktails, so whatever your mood is, there really is something to satisfy it. •• No A7, Simpang 30, Aman Hill,Jalan Aman, Kampong Sungai Tilong Open: 11am-8:30pm (Mon-Thurs) 9am-12pm & 2pm-8:30pm (Fri) 10am-8:30pm (Sat-Sun) Tel: 673-7374688 IG: @sipnsnack_bn FB: SipnSnack

Who in their right mind would ever say no to seeing more locales such as Yolé appearing in Brunei’s food and beverage scene? I mean have you seen how hot it is out there? Yes, we have our fair share of monsoon rains too, but with humidity and sunshine levels increasingly hitting new highs, anyone walking past this frozen yoghurt and ice cream specialist is going to freeze in their tracks and immediately think “Get in my belly now!” Originally hailing from Spain, this great excuse for having dessert in the middle of the day first appeared in the Setia Kenangan II area in December 2021 before quickly establishing its presence at Times Square, as well as Rimba Point too. From Froyos and ice creams, to their thick shakes and recently introduced Frappes, the absence of refined sugars is a major plus for those seeking a guilt-free snack. With a wide variety of toppings and sauces to choose from, it is the selection of fruits that have been drawing the fitness fanatics and the more health conscious through the tall glass doors. “Anything in particular that they like?” I ask the super friendly, and incredibly informative staff member, who proceeds to answer, “Kiwi is the most popular. And the watermelon. And the mango. And the …”. Alright then, I will settle for ‘All of the Above’, which is indicative of Yolé being off to a great start. •• Unit No. F11, Ground Floor, Block F, Setia Kenangan 2, Kampong Kiulap Open daily: 11am-9pm Tel: 673-8141088 IG: @yolebrunei FB: Yolé Brunei

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biG openings

Kopitiam by Day, Café by Night

Chicken Hainan Pasta anyone? Yes, you read that right. An interesting fusion of East meets West that I did not expect to find on the menu when I stopped by a corner-of-the-block eatery in the Tungku area. Opening up with little fanfare in March 2021 due to Brunei attempting to ride out a Covid wave, this laid back locale is a pleasant addition to our food and beverage scene. Seating up to 40 people indoors and 8 people outdoors when at full capacity, the interior and layout is accommodating and well-sized. A tri-textured wall on one side of the eatery provides a nice sequence of changing backdrops. It begins with packed stone with the business’s namesake on a bold red sign; followed by a black and white mural painted by a local artist that is a mesh of local sights and nature; culminating in a polished concrete wall with a scratchy effect for that modern urban vibe that since its introduction in the Sultanate 7 years ago continues to be all the rage with the youth. The latter section is history on a wall, as it is adorned 13 framed monochromatic images showcasing aspects of life

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in Brunei back in the day. A mini landscaped Koi pond aside the outdoor dining area provides yet more character and personality indicative of a well-thought out approach. The De'Kopi eatery operates as a Kopitiam in the mornings, and a café space to chill out at in the late afternoon and evening, resulting in time specific breakfasts and lunches/dinner. So if you want those pancakes, you better get there before 11.30am. The offerings are decent and very affordable, with outsourced pastries arriving at 11 daily. These however tend to sell out fast, so first come first serve. Cash and BiBD transfers are the only modes of payment currently, but work is underway to enable customers to pay via debit or credit card in the near future. •• Unit 13A, Ground Floor, Block C, Latifuddin Complex, Jalan Lebuhraya Tungku Open daily: 8am-7pm Tel: 673-7347488 IG: @kafe_dekopi FB: kafe De’Kopi

biG openings

Berry

Wonderful What initially began as a passion for baking led to the founding of Bundusanbased Le Berries, the neighbourhood’s specialist artisanal cake maker. Armed with premium natural ingredients and eschewing the use of colouring additives, it did not take long for the quality of the work to speak for itself. Taking the form of a loyal client base impressed with the baker’s consistency and creativity; the whipping up of themed goodies revolving around the festive seasons of Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and Christmas, as well as for special occasions, provided yet more opportunity to shine. Interestingly enough, a line of goodies labelled as the Surprise Cup Series has proven to be a unique best seller wherein a sponge cake is buried beneath an assortment of fruits such as watermelon and strawberry

Life is short, eat dessert first Who would have thought that when a young man holidaying in Japan discovered a unique savoury pastry dish, which he adapted to suit the Malaysian palate, that it would turn him into the owner of a 115-strong outlet franchise in under 10 years. Founded in 2016, it did not take long before he chose to turn his brand into the epitome of a Japanese dessert house in 21st Century Malaysia. It first began in Bandar Puchong Jaya, and after listening to the steady build-up of popular requests, decided Sarawak is a market being overlooked. Sarawakians armed with sweet tooths got to watch with a little bit of envy at first, before that morphed into more vocal requests for them to be included in the destination menu. Well, they were heard and listened to, as the 1st of June saw the opening of the first outlet in that state (#115), with a branch being set up in the Marina Times Square complex in Miri City. The atmosphere has a simple yet modern vibe. The interior balances the warmth of sandalwood laminate flooring and the electric orange neon sign, with dark grey walls that are just as cooling to the senses of the mind, as the beverages and ice-shaved desserts are to those of our palate and stomach. The closest people have been able to come to nominating a clear favourite is the Kakigori,

which itself is a category and not a specific dish, highlighting how well-rounded it is overall. There is chocolate ice, fruit ice, milk ice, and yoghurt ice variants covering a wide selection of more specific flavours. Along with their signature toasts, croissants, macaroons, artisanal cakes, and beverages; I am willing to wager that you most certainly will find something here for your stomach to fall in love with, if it has not already done so in the past. With a good reception for MyKori Dessert Cafe's soft launch inclusive of a dragon dance, while under the watchful gaze of the franchise’s unicorn shaped logo, do expect your Bruneian neighbours to start rocking up in the future too. •• A-G-22, Ground Floor, Marina Times Square, Miri Open daily: 11am-10pm IG: mykorridessertcafe FB: Mykõri Dessert Café – Miri, Sarawak

cubes topped with mini taro balls. With strawberry cheese, tiramisu, mango taro, and black forest added to the series, the only way not to miss out is to try them all, a suggestion that I am willing to bet is crossing your mind at this very moment as you read this statement. Things seem to be heating up in the kitchen, and in a good sense, as Le Berries launched its 2nd outlet just half a year ago in Gaya Street, as well as a 3rd outlet in Kolombong just 5 months later. That is pretty sweet! •• B-12-1, Bundusan Pavilion, 88100, Kota Kinabalu Tel: 6011-1273138 (Kolombong) 6014-7383318 (Bundusan) 6012-6801318 (Gaya Street) IG: le.berries FB: Le Berries

feature Rozman Mashor & Jia Ying Chia

t is more than just a slogan and tagline. These 3 words encapsulate the essence and soul of what it is to collectively be Singaporean. It is inherent in their nature, all the way down to the atomic level. Taking modern history into account it is by all means still a young country, but one that is home to a diverse multi-ethnic society wherein everyone approaching the table is recognised as having something of value to offer. In tandem with their organised tendencies for planning, the personas making up the 5.9 million people of various backgrounds and beliefs, have built and secured an impressive array of attractions within the food & beverage, retail, entertainment, and creative industries. But this is also true of many other countries actively working toward their own respective re-openings. What makes Singapore so special?

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Incapable of being settled and still the limbo effect of Covid-19 presented an opportunity for Singapore to review, and then reimagine, the intricacies of the multifaceted travel and tourism industry as they strive to woo Earth’s denizens near and far back to their shores. Armed with a multipronged strategy focused on showcasing the new and the unknown, as well as the unexpected and the transformed, Singapore has aggressively pushed forward with measures to reassure you and me, that it is a top-tier Covidresilient nation. The prevailing attitude that technology and sustainability are key to adapting, and then evolving in parallel to the last 800 days (roughly) of a global pandemic is now being put to the test.

Passion ma

Automation, which is expected to play a key role in national development plans over the next 40 years, aids in elevating health and safety measures through better levels of hygiene and cleanliness. The promotion of an increasingly contact-less approach in all aspects of life via a serious leveraging on key technologies has led to a creative reimagining of experiences across the board that is welcoming and reassuring to a global population still wary of travel. From Shopping, dining, and leisure events, to accommodations, entertainment, and business, processes are often seamless and without hassle. Even a person who tends to struggle with technology and gadgets such as myself appreciated the ease of something as

small as completing an arrival card on the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority’s mobile application (MyICA) 3 days prior to my flight. Conversely, checking in for my returning flight via the rows of EVA-lookalike terminals at Changi is also straightforward and easy. And should you fall under the Captain Caveman category like myself, struggling with the technology on hand, then there are always trained personnel and staff nearby to render assistance to the uninitiated. From day 1 of its modern history Singapore has always had it in mind to be a

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ade Possible premier city in a garden, a goal many of us believe it achieved to great effect decades ago. Extending that narrative however has seen the city-state eye the loftier goal of being a premier city in nature. To be a sustainable urban destination yet more attractive to a global audience. The tourism, retail, dining, and creative industries have embraced this with gusto, pursuing measures that save energy, cut costs, reduce waste, in order to provide peace of mind in an era where matters of the environment are often at the fore of conversations. It goes without saying that

this is just the tip of the iceberg, but it thus far seems to be yielding a favourable outcome. English, French, German, Spanish, American, Japanese, Korean, and South African languages and accents make up a small portion of the speech I overhear and am able to identify as I take a night stroll around the esplanade. For a nation that has just recently opened up to the world fully again, it sure did not take long for the visitors to show up. I admire the illumination of the city skyline at night,

as well as the numerous art installations comprising the iLights Exhibition that are also aimed at raising awareness on sustainability. A mandatory maskwearing requirement is gently enforced while indoors only by volunteers in red ‘Distancing Ambassadors’ T-shirts, and staff at various business outlets. Outdoors there is a 50/50 mix of those who opt to keep their face masks on, as well as those embracing the fact that they no longer need to. I cannot help but feel a returning sense of freedom that I was robbed off back in 2020. It is a warm

feeling. You never really appreciate what you have until it is taken away from you. The Lion City beckons everyone, and Singapore has reopened like a flower blossoming in greeting. Not to a new dawn full of available possibilities, but to a dawn of possibilities that were seized in order to create a harmonious blending of the world’s New Normal. The Merlion cares not whether you hail from near or far, for it roars a confident welcome to all. This is Singapore Reimagined.

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Earth’s Largest

Greenhouse Resembling mighty glass clam shells embossed with lattice-worked steel that glint in the sunlight, the 2 giant conservatories that make up part of Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay are a sight to behold, whether from an aerial perspective or as you stare outwards from within. Encompassing 8 separate gardens: The Flower Dome contains – Olive Grove, California, Mediterranean, South American, South African, Australian, Baobabs, and the Succulent gardens – a greenhouse that is testament to the value the city-state places on a seamless fusion of Mother Nature’s boons with the hightech fast paced lifestyle that defines the nation. Spread across 1.2 hectares: the diversity of plant species representing large swathes of the Earth, in tandem with the

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cool art installations and decorations on display, is a landscaped haven under one roof that pleases all. Whether you embark on a slow leisurely stroll taking deep breaths as you draw everything in, or you dash around on that platinum trophy side-quest to spot and log everything on display, your sense of sight is in for a treat. The elaborate wood-carved installations of animals both real and mythical were my personal favourite and made for a fun game of ‘I Spy’ as horses, lizards, wildcats, sloths, snakes, and an eagle can be seen under the watchful gaze of a treeperched dragon. The cavernous megastructure which holds the

Guinness World Record for the planet’s largest greenhouse brings to mind that of a large terrarium. With the aid of specially selected glass that minimises solar heat while still allowing optimum levels of sunlight for the flora, the climate controlled temperature averages around a pleasant 25°C. With Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS) no longer applying there is a strong sense of freedom being returned, as the latest rules in place allow for groups of any size to travel together while exploring this space. We recommend a good hour minimum to bask in your surroundings.

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Journey

A cool but barely perceptible mist permeates the air. The undulating aerial walkways up above present numerous vantage points from which to view the central vista of a lush mountain that is home to exotic species of flora from across the globe. All against the roaring backdrop of water thundering down the 35-metre height of what was once the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.

TO T H E

Similar to the first conservatory: This 2nd glasshouse – Cloud Forest – which takes up 0.8 hectares of space, was added to Singapore’s skyline upon its completion in 2012, bagging both top-spot honours and bragging rights a decade ago. The passing of this green torch is one Singapore gladly relinquished, as it was the city-state who deliberately dethroned itself in order to build an even taller indoor waterfall at The Jewel outside Changi Airport. Well played dear neighbour, well played. Making your way to the Lost World at its peak exposes visitors to unique vegetation native to cloud forest habitats that typically occur at 2,000 metres above sea level. From carnivorous pitcher plants and Venus Flytraps residing against verdant carpets of delicate ferns and mosses, there is actually more to this mountain then meets the eye. There is more to it than just panoramic views of the interior as well as the Marina Bay waterfront outside, as sustainability is the flavour of the day all year long across all facets of society here. This hollow structure is home to an educational gallery aimed at children, a theatre running documentaries pertaining to the

importance of our environment, as well as a secret garden. With a 25°C temperature and a humidity rating of between 80% and 90%, the coolness of the air is maintained by a clever piece of innovation called thermal stratification, which involves chilled water pipes within the floor slabs. For you to be every single bit as impressed as us, we also recommend a minimum of 1 hour to soak in the ambience.

GARDENS BY THE BAY

18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953 Open daily: 5am-2am Closed once a month for maintenance

Reserve your tickets at: gardensbythebay.com IG: @gardensbythebay FB: Gardens by the Bay

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kids that went charging past me in joyous frenzy failed to linger as long as they should have. At the end of that walkway, beyond a ‘stick-and-leave-a-messageanywhere’ room, I quickly learn why. A sprinkle pit, that is right people, not a ball pit but a sprinkle pit occupies the central length of one of the rooms, and there are children – and adults too – wading, jumping, falling, burying themselves beneath it all, having the absolute time of their lives.

Served You just got

little rug rats are going to love them at the end of the day. Well, we did anyway. Though I can say with the utmost confidence that with our citystate neighbours being a mere hop, skip and a jump away, it is only a matter of time until you do too (hint-hint: August and September school holidays for Brunei, as well as Sabah and Sarawak are just around the corner). Time for a sweet getaway perhaps? Originating in the good old US of A, the setting up of a Museum of Ice Cream in Singapore in August 2021 marks the company’s very

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first international foray, and as specialist providers of magical experiences, they have made one heck of an entrance. This statement is gauged on the number of kids I bore witness to, screaming in sheer pleasure as they moved from room to room, their minds immersed in the 14 different multi-sensory installations on offer. A tourist attraction to be sure, it was great to see a mix of both Singaporeans as well as tourists from India, Japan, Korea, and Indonesia smiling wide grins as they undoubtedly thought to themselves just how much their

Traversing down a corridor I am greeted by several giant ice-pops lodged in the ground, walls, and ceiling, with a group of youngsters using one as a bench for taking group photos for the gram. Walking up a short flight of stairs brings me face to face with kids on swings, teenagers shooting mini basketballs into hoops … and is that a giant unicorn’s head at the back of the room? It certainly complements the ambience of an innocent child’s sweet pink dreams. Rounding a corner, I am caught so off-guard by the banana archway it takes me a moment to notice the

Being fairly in-tune with my inner Peter Pan, I admit to experiencing pangs of jealousy yet feel a radiating warmth as I soak up the aura of everyone’s happiness. Oh well, I suppose I will just have to settle for my 7th scoop of free flow ice cream that comes in 5 different forms from the 5 stations throughout the 60,000 square foot museum. Jealous yet?

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM

100 Loewen Road, Dempsey, Singapore 248837 Open: 10am-10pm (Thurs-Sun) Mon - Wed closed

Reserve your tickets at:

Museumoficecream.com IG: @museumoficecreamsg FB: MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM SG

MINT MUSEUM OF TOYS 26 Seah Street, Singapore 188382 Open: 9.30am-6.30pm (Tues-Sun) Monday closed

Reserve your tickets at: emint.com IG: @mintmuseumoftoys FB: Mint Museum of Toys

Scrolling down

Memory Lane this 6-storey journey through childhood reminiscence.

As an 80s kid who grew to be an avid collector of toys and comics, while straddling the line between both traditional and modern modes of play, I was wowed as The Petite Prince escorted me on a tour of the MINT Toy Museum’s visual menu of nostalgic delights. With an ever growing collection of 50,000 collectibles, roughly 8,500 unique items have so far been displayed within

pursued with gusto.

It was already impressive to have high standards of curation applied to items sourced from over 40 countries that date back between the 1840s to 1980s. It was already impressive that it bagged the title of largest vintage toy museum in Asia from the day of its launch in 2007 till now. However, like the 80s-era G1 Transformers you can find inside, there is more than meets the eye. More than just a simple viewing gallery, MINT has tailor-made a variety of on-site programmes catering to students at the pre-school, primary school, as well as secondary school levels. The museum has also played host to private events inclusive of birthday parties, weddings, baby showers, and corporate gatherings too. Even a member of the administrative staff announced her “I do”, right here.

Innovating in parallel to the pandemic enabled MINT to adapt by embracing the future to enjoy the past. An entrance fee allows you to tour and view the collectibles on display yourself, but for a little bit extra, you can embark on an augmented reality journey that will have childhood favourites such as Winnie the Pooh, Betty Boop, Astro Boy, Tin Tin and Snowy, come to life in the palm of your hands, literally. With different areas themed on Collectibles, Childhood Favourites, Characters, and Outer Space – we highly recommend that you buy the deck of 40 cards. Then simply use your smartphone or tablet to scan each card as you progress, so that Popeye, Mr Punch, and Buck Rogers can magically appear like small holograms, and tell you their histories, while you view their original physical forms sealed behind glass cabinets.

It was not enough for the museum whose staff are always on their toes thinking of how to spice up proceedings. The arrival of a certain pesky virus may have forced the museum to close in 2020, but with its arrival also came new ideas that MINT

The story does not end there. To make matters better, a visitor can return to their home country and by downloading the museum’s specially designed ExperienceAR application, replay the cards over and over again, resulting in a tour that technically never truly ends.

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UP, UP AND AWAY!

SENTOSA

Reserve your tickets at: Sentosa.com.sg IG: @sentosa_island FB: Sentosa

At the Imbiah Lookout (a cluster of numerous attractions) stands the tallest open-air panoramic ride in the country. Generating much fanfare prior to its opening 7 months ago, the SkyHelix takes 10 minutes to ascend its vertical helix frame. Upon reaching a height of 35 metres above ground the gondola and its tightly secured 16 passengers plus 1 friendly host rotates slowly for 12 minutes, providing a fantastic 360° view of the surroundings.

Let The Fun

RESUME!

With the simplifying of Singapore’s Safe Management Measures, and the transition to a Covid-19 resilient nation status, access to the Tanjong, Palawan, and Siloso beaches have been fully restored for individuals and families alike, alongside all the modes of entertainment on this getaway island. There is Universal Studios Singapore for the pop culture movie buffs seeking excitement. The S.E.A Aquarium for the environmentally conscious and wildlife advocates. Bungee jumping and the Skyline Luge for the thrill seekers. Riding the cable cars for photographers looking for amazing shots of the surroundings, and who can overlook the premium shopping and dining options at Quayside Isle and Resorts World? These are but a scant few of so many more attractions. Regardless of your personality type and interests, the State of Fun has you covered because boredom does not exist in their dictionary. With a brief 4 hours to kill the biG Team gravitated to the newer attractions that Sentosa has developed since 2020.

A PHOENIX RISES

This twice an evening, 20-minute night light show is a visual extravaganza all its own that must be seen to be believed. A multi-sensory experience that transforms Siloso Beach into a bewitching light and sound spectacle, the much loved Magical Shores was an interactive wonder to behold until the pandemic put a stop to that. Rising like a phoenix from the ashes, May 18 saw the launch of the brand new Wings of Time. This spellbinding laser, fire, and water effects show backed up by a great soundtrack and narrative will have your children gasping in wonder. With a fireworks show to cap of the adventure of Rachel and Felix as they journey with the prehistoric bird Shahbaz, this show’s tickets sell out fast!

ACROSS THE BOARD

Are you a fashionista with an eye for luxury retail shopping? Do you feel the need to scream riding down thrilling slides and rides at theme and water parks? Have you ever wanted to view marine life up close, or better yet, get into the water with an Indo-Pacific Bottlenose dolphin personally? Are you forever hungry like Jughead Jones and myself? With 45 retail outlets, 20 dining establishments, and several parks under its purview, the answer to all these questions is: Resort World Sentosa. What are you waiting for?

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SCENTOPIA

36 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa 099007 Open daily: 11am-7pm

Reserve your tickets at: Scentopia-singapore.com IG: @Scentopia_singapore FB: Scentopia

SERIOUSLY FUN THYMES

Once you finish rolling your eyes at my puns, allow me to say welcome to Scentopia everyone, the newest arrival on the Sentosa scene wherein I made my very own bespoke perfume, and so can you! The city-state’s first ever augmented reality perfume making experience, this clever venture will have your nose perking up dead quick as you exercise your olfactory senses to the max. Filling in a questionnaire reveals aspects of your personality type as well as the individual fragrant oils that you should focus on using – because that is right, you guessed it – you now get to play mad scientist. Combining up to 10 different oils results in a unique scent that is from top to bottom essentially you. I had available to me roughly 300 oils for women, and 300 oils for men, all of which are split into 5 categories

– Citrus, Fresh, Floral, Woody, and Oriental – and stored within vibrant colour coded cabinets. I recommend you set some time aside for this wonderfully fun experiment. Trust me on this, you are going to be here a while, especially if you decide to be extra creative and mix in scents based not just on the questionnaire but also your own preference. Top tip: make use of the coffee beans to clear out your sinuses often so you can appreciate the oils more accurately. Alternatively, you can also make your own room fragrances, reed diffuser or bath oils, and even scented candles! However, if this is a quick stop and you would still like a good memory then you can always purchase the bespoke scents that define different aspects of life in Singapore, such as The Wonders of Bugis,

Nyonya’s Home, and Straits Settlement. Technically, this world of fragrances has over 6,000 scents on its belt which yields over a trillion possible combinations. That means that you could create a scent that no other person on Earth uses. Life is a mix of the theoretical as well as the practical, and Scentopia is no exception as the physical mixing up of perfume is balanced by rich and detailed information in 2 other sections of the store. Presented as a 300-strong AR exhibit that can be scanned by your smart device, the resulting holographic images than regale you with information on the tile’s topic. Animals vs Humans, who has the better sense of smell? What aromas do men prefer? What do mums like? Scan and find out. Top tip: make sure your Facebook app is up to date as the software in

play works in tandem with FB's metaverse. With friendly and informative staff on hand to help out, you need to add this locale to your Sentosa bucket list. Fun thymes guaranteed, seriouslily.

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Hawker Centre Reimagined

FOOD FOLK @LAU PA SAT

100 Loewen Road, Dempsey, Singapore Open daily: 10am-10pm Tuesday closed laupasat.sg IG: @foodfolks.sg FB: Food Folks

Food centres and hawkers’ stalls are the life blood of any community – the melting pot where old, young, rich and poor, come to take part in the most important activity of any society. The Food Folks retail store in Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre sits in the middle of Singapore’s central business district as a architectural anomaly in the

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midst of a modern concrete jungle. The building itself was formerly a fish market by the water, until the whole building was relocated to its current address in Raffles Quay due to land reclamation efforts; its Victorian accents and details like the iron boy who tolls an actual bell every half hour, hint at its colourful history. The octagonal structure that is there today, was originally designed in 1836 by George D. Coleman, and further adapted by the Municipal Engineer, James MacRitchie, who is responsible for the skyreaching iron pillars that make Lau Pa Sat so recognisable. Today, this airy space can easily host up to 150 people, with plans to revive their live entertainment platform as part

of post-Covid recovery efforts. Here at Food Folks, the trips down memory lane continue in the experience. A large display of the White Rabbit candy and related merchandise sends my colleague and I into fits of disbelief and reminiscing. “We have a lot of old favourites, things that people would recognise and be reminded of their childhood growing up,” Pauline Ong (pictured above) tells me as my eyes wander across the stacked walls of snacks and treats in their retail section. All part of their ‘purpose-driven’ retail initiative, Food Folks has an admirable track record and motive. Almost 70% of the brands on shelves are Singaporean owned and all of the stalls in the food hall are

managed by local founders who have a Modern Singaporeaninspired menu. In all sense of the word, there is an atmosphere of community. Vendors and participating businesses get amazing support from the Food Folk team, to help ensure that their businesses not only thrive but have the ability to progress beyond the space. To date, Food Folks now carries a specially curated selection of over 1,500 food-related items (many of which are almost exclusive to Food Folks!). Their five retail zones (Grab & Go; Love Healthy; Love Singapore; Local Delights and World Favourites) in the Food Folks retail halls cater to almost any heart’s desire. It is very hard work to walk away without seeing something you want to buy or eat; the sheer ingenuity and quality behind some of these brands and products were very inspiring to see. Search the shelves and you’ll come across items like the Duck Shit Dancong Tea Chocolate from awardwinning chocolatier, FOSSA. Crusty’s potato chips which are made by Royale International Enterprise, feature unique flavors like Singapore Chicken Rice or Seafood BBQ Fiesta. Did we mention White Rabbit candies in Chocolate or Banana flavour? And we haven’t even gotten to the hawker stalls yet!

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ALikeJewel No Other

It is unnervingly quiet in the Jewel building; having been dropped off early for our departing flight back to Brunei, I was relishing the chance to explore the vast expanse of this ingenious architectural feat. And shop, of course. It is just shy of 9am by the time we are checked in and my previous night’s research showed that many of the stores in the Jewel at Changi Airport don’t typically open till 10am. The lack of activity this early isn’t surprising – the Asian travel industry has only just made it’s first steps into normal operations – but it is interesting to experience in comparison to our first introduction a few days ago where crowds of people, both travelers and Singaporeans, thronged the Jewel and I finally realised that your girl was not in Kansas anymore.

exists as a connector between the three current terminals of the Changi Airport complex. Most people would be familiar with at least the centerpiece of the building, the HSBC Rain Vortex. This five-story indoor waterfall is the highest of its kind in the world, transforming the huge channel of water into a dazzling light show come nightfall. Looking through the architect’s brief on the design aspects of the building, it is mind-boggling to think that the five basement floors were carved out of reclaimed land, or that the shape of the building was inspired by the circularity of the torus (in laymen terms, a 3D donut) allowing the 10,000 gallons of rainwater at the vortex to be recycled and redistributed to where it is needed in the building.

The sheer size of the building, all 1,460,663 square feet of it,

The expanse of almost 1,000 types of tropical plants framing

the walls of the dome are actually walkable paths coined the ‘Shiseido Forest Valley’ that flank the higher floors of the Jewel. Here, they have somehow managed to fit a cinema, topiary garden, a hedge maze, play areas that are attractive to kids of all ages, amongst a long list of attractions open to both the public and travelers. It would take days, if not weeks to fully experience everything here at the Jewel, and that is perhaps the backhanded beauty of this new location. It can be easy to forget the architectural mastery if you’re entering the Jewel from within the airport. I was quickly distracted by the circular maze of retail and restaurants looping to the sky and below - brands from all over the world and Singapore that have come to make this place their new home.

Cult favourite Shake Shack gave me enough energy for a second round of roaming – or should I have saved space for the nostalgic feels of A&W that I just noticed around the corner? The unique offering of artisan saucier and retailer, Sauce Legend (pictured above), also intrigued me; at first glance the rows of dark liquid seem normal enough. I find myself tasting a number of the artisan sauces and realize that all sauce is really not equal. Organic Yu Kee oyster sauce tastes like 100 fresh oysters have been jam packed into the bottle, with all their briny goodness; Nanyang 12-year aged soy has a surprising citrusy and deeply savory flavor unlike any commercially available brand. I want to buy everything in the store, but my sad single carry-on tells me no. Thankfully, Singapore is just a quick flight away and at this rate, I won’t even have to leave the airport!

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appetite

eat , drink Brunei A smoothie a day, Keeps the body in play Considering the number of times that I have taken a stroll along this particular block in the Kiulap central business district, I believe I owe myself a hard slap to the forehead for not having noticed sooner a white framed door within which lies this smoothie specialist. As juice bars are popular in a hot country whose population is increasingly and proactively taking strides to pursue a healthier lifestyle, it comes as no surprise that Bananarama have a good selection of thirst quenching beverages on offer. The Tutti Frutti blend of (dragon fruit, banana, pineapple, lychee,

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mango nectar, coconut water and lime, oh my) as well as the Strawberries & Cream are their best sellers. With 9 more choices as backup, all of which are dairy free, as well as 2 slushies, an assortment of cookies, and lemon butter cakes just to mention a few; the pastel pink interior is crewed by super friendly staff. I am fond of the fact that they have nut-free cookies for people with allergies, as well as gluten free brownies too. Normally I would say it is the little

Byrdhouse foods

things that count but these last 2 points are actually a pretty big deal, so good stuff Bananarama, good stuff indeed.

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Unit 26, Ground Floor, Block C, Hau Man Yong Complex, Kiulap Open: 10.30am - 7.30pm (Mon-Thurs & Sat-Sun) 2.30pm - 7.30pm (Fri) Tel: 673-8752433 IG: @bananarama

No sauce. It’s rare to find a burger here that doesn’t have any form of condiment slathering the inside of the buns but Byrdhouse burgers are refreshingly and deliciously, simple. They make their food and ingredients from scratch where possible– fresh brioche buns, thick flavour packed beef and chicken patties, and yes, if you really, really want it – the duo also make their own honey mustard and spicy mayo. Byrdhouse is best known for their beef burgers that come in a spicy and original option, and the crispiest deepfried mushies that really are an addictive munching snack! Byrdhouse is a regular fixture at local pop up events, but you can also make personal orders through their Instagram account @byrdhouse.foods

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Kg Burong Pinai, Berakas Open: Available on demand Contact us via IG for info Tel: 673-8396949

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Sabahan Kampong Style The grass is always greener on the other side … until you get there of course. Then you spin 180 degrees on the spot and look back at the things you left behind, and ultimately come to miss. This amusing concept ranges from the individual to entire communities, wherein many of us seek a more globalised and exciting society only to then reminisce on more quiet, peaceful times where a slower pace of life grants solace from an increasingly hectic existence. Hey Little Sulap has got Sabahans covered though. While this cute little café does have a selection of Western dishes, their strength lies in its neat presentation of local fare. There is so much beauty and love that can be found in simplicity, and this blend between the rustic and the modern manages to pull it off quite well – whether it is the tasty food or the interior. From its small size and friendly staff to its traditional village food hiding in a pastel pink building, the vibe is fairly charming. Brown or purple hued fried rice, chicken fillets, anchovies, accompanied by dips such as thick sambal for instance are goodies that will always remain close to the hearts of myself and my fellow islanders, while the ever popular ambuyat sets make for a great excuse for groups of friends and family to share meal together. Balik Kampung anyone?

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No 3A Garden Hotel, Jalan Dewan, Austral Lane 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Open daily: 10am –10pm Tel: 6011-33808184 IG: @Heylittlesulap FB: @Little Sulap

eat , drink S a b a h Quality over Quantity With a well-established ethos dedicated to prioritising food sustainability, the amazing team at Limau and Linen are exactly the sort of specialists that we want to see more of in the food and beverage industry. Situated slightly south of Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen as it rounds a jutting section of coastline, this is a professional eatery that is in sync with its values and beliefs, setting a standard that is both environmentally and morally admirable. Responsive to feedback from clientele satisfied with their offerings, calls made requesting the addition of fish to the menu was put on the backburner due to the eatery’s desire to work only with fishermen employing sustainable methods of capture. An impassioned post by L&L online even saw them decrying fish-bombing

and the extensive use of trawling for the damage this causes to marine ecosystems. They have in the time since then been able to overcome this speed bump, which is great for minds and bellies alike. Respectable beliefs aside, the dishes ranging from their baked croissants, Pain au chocolate, and assorted savoury pies, to their main course offerings of Wagyu beef stew, burgers, vegetarian pastas, and De Claire Oysters, to name but a few, cause mouths in their vicinity to water. Personally, I quite enjoy their tendency to break out into rhymes when writing captions for their photos.

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11 Peak Suites, Signal Hill 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Open: 9am –10.30pm (closed Wednesday) Tel: 6012 297 0028 IG: @limauandlinen FB: @Limau & Linen Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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Hi Selangor, I’m Sarawak. Located in Damansara in the state of Selangor, right next to the border with the capital of Kuala Lumpur is where SALTed chose to make its home. Proudly whipping up Sarawakian cuisine from their beloved state for their brethren in peninsular Malaysia, this is an eatery that is often frequented by public figures from across Malaysia. From Sarawak’s Sape Queen, Alena Murang providing support and credence to the cuisine of her backyard, to Malaysian beauty queens, TV hosts, models, actresses, singers, athletes, and race car drivers, this is an eatery small in size but huge in heart. Specialising in soupy noodle dishes, there is a lovely tribute here to American celebrity chef, author and travel documentarian Anthony Bourdain, who once referred to Sarawak Laksa as the “Breakfast of the Gods”. Rarely having left Borneo, this statement on his show ‘No Reservations & Parts Unknown’, led to a meteoric rise in the dish’s popularity overseas. As much as a painting of his likeness seated at a table with chopsticks in hand makes for a popular photo spot with diners, it is the amazing flavours that continuously draws people here, ourselves included.

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Hospitality Often labelled as a very affordable higher-level kopitiam by locals as well as visitors from peninsular Malaysia alike, the much loved Rumah Hijau Café (Green House Café) is as its namesake suggests. Impossible to miss, this private residence stands out with its teal coloured walls, outdoor dining area, and abundant greenery punctuated by vibrant pink flowers. A wide variety of delicious food covers most of the bases with Asian styled rice, noodle, soup dishes galore featuring chicken, beef and fish as their main. There are also treats from further beyond such as the spicy Indian salad, and Western dishes from your classic fish and chips to steak and potatoes. While popular with visitors from abroad both near and far, the homey vibes and feel to this place has a tendency to draw large groupings, whether they be friends or family, as

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eat , drink Sarawak

opposed to the individual. Even though the ground floor has obviously been converted to deal specifically with hordes of ravenous clientele, in the form of a large dining area, the prevailing ambience is one of being welcomed into the residence of a kind and welcoming family, and who does not like that? That was a rhetorical question; after all – home is where the stomach is, err I mean heart. Home is where the Heart is … same thing.

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24A-24D, Rubber Road, 93400, Kuching Open: 9.30am-5pm (closed Friday) Tel: 6016-5891947 IG: @rumahhijaucafe FB: @Rumah Hijau Café Kuching Sarawak

30-1, Jalan PJU7/16A, Mutiara Damansara, 47810, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Open: 9.30am-5pm (closed Friday) Tel: 6037-4935266 IG: @saltedswk FB: @SALTed

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Not just Anywhere Resembling a normal 2-storey home with whitewashed walls at first glance, the Anyway Café & Eatery is a locale situated in the middle of a residential neighbourhood in South Kalimantan. Driving past requires a double take in order to see the 2 signs proclaiming that you are in the right place. The outdoor corridor entranceway leading to the areas of interest has been cleverly done with circularhewn wooden stepping stones placed within a pebble flooring resembling a textured mat. Small tables of wooden and granite stand alongside a wall ledge that doubles as seating, while ringed with cacti, and all beneath a canvass wrapped roof of wooden poles. This fusion of Japanese Zen meets Island Living works effectively in showcasing natural and modern elements of aesthetics. Stairs lead to the upper balcony dining area for a better view, while a modern interior consists of both a dining section and an Instagrammable chill out spot. A more intimate dining area in the backyard offers yet more choice for your surroundings. With a South American Teepee and quite a lot of Dream-Catchers and cacti used as décor, this eatery is rich with personality.

eat , drink

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Badan Pertahanan Nasional, JI. Manuntung No. 3, Balikpapan, East Kalimantan Open daily: 10am – 11pm Tel: 62822-55445594 IG: @anyway.co_

Kalimantan A moderntraditional blend On the inward curving hook of land that makes up Balikpapan City on the east of the island, people here have a good appreciation for a strong cup of Joe. It is for this reason that sourcing caffeine loaded beverages is relatively simple here with traditional coffee houses being well established, as well as 3rd Wave Coffee Culture businesses making their presence felt too. Residents around the Mt Haryono area – who also happen to be in the

know – tend to frequent a small little café and eatery known as Amalgam, that has built a reputation based on traditional values and hospitality, fused with modern offerings and outlooks. The positive energy here is contagious. The proprietor himself is often seen with a big grin, alongside staff, as they welcome everyone. Lauding the mood boosting effects of caffeine, some of the more interesting things on the menu that

caught my eye include the cocopandan latte, the avocado Oreo shake, as well as the popcorn latte (yes you read that right!) With a small selection of food and snacks, it is the tortilla pizza that steals the limelight for me.

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JI. MT Haryono, No 12, RT. 37 Balikpapan, East Kalimantan Open daily: 8am – 10pm Tel: 62818-07771619 IG: @amalgambalikpapan FB: @Amalgam Balikpapan

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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 2424132) Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant Arabic cuisine at its finest #1A&1B Heng Thai Property Centre Spg 22 Jln Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 2450009) – call for other branches Restoran Makan & Soto Rosmini Our favourite soto hang-out 1 Spg 15, Jln Gadong (673 8719946) Mei Kong Coffee Shop A trip to Brunei isn’t complete without sampling their famous kolo mee 108 Jln Pemancha, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2240688) Kaizen Sushi served fresh on your table plus a variety of other Japanese cuisine Yayasan Complex Waterfront Side, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2226336) – call for other branches Pondok Sari Wangi Restaurant Serving the best of Indonesian cuisine 12-13 1st Flr Blk A Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2445043) – call for other branches Tasneem This North Indian restaurant serves our favourite briyani in town. Grd Flr Jln Setia Square Berakas, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2339230)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Thien Thien Restaurant Purveyors of arguably the best Nasi Ayam in town 10 Grd Flr Mas Panchawarna Complex (673 2222435) – call for other branches Ximply Chriz Café Divine desserts, great coffee and scrumptious meals Unit B3 Grd Flr, One Riverside, 1 Jln Gadong (673 2221138) TASTE OF ASIA VIETNAMESE PHO, THAI TOM YAM, JAPANESE SUSHI, KOREAN KIMCHI AND BRUNEIAN AMBUYAT – THIS LIST COVERS MOST OF OUR FAVOURITE ASIAN DELIGHTS. Ahan Thai 10 Blk B Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2452852)

Babu’s Kitchen C44 Blk C Grd Flr Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 2457868) Bali Pit-Stop 15 &16, Spg 150 Grd Floor, Block A Bangunan Habza, Kiulap (673 7209992) Chatterbox Kopitiam 2 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbullah 2, Gadong (673 8201212) Excapade Serusop Unit 4&5, Spg 86, Complex PHB, Kg Delima Satu, Jln Muara (673 2335512) – Call for other branches Farmbasket Snack Bar A1, Grd Flr Blk A, Urairah Complex, Spg 88, Kiulap (673 2234666) – Call for other branches Gurkha Palace 47 Jalan Bunga Melor, Seria Town (673 3221474)

Ah Mit’s Delicacy Café No 13, Grd Flr, Impiana Jaya Complex, Kiulap (673 889 0024)

Gratitude Café Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 2341123)

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

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

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

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

Aneka Rasa Blk A #16 & 17 Grd & 1st Flr Bgn Begawan Pehin Dato Hj Mohd Yussof, Kg Kiulap (673 2231728)

Impian Rasa Restaurant #5 Bgn Pg Hjh Rafiah Spg 607 Jln Jangsak, Gadong (673 2653858) – Call for other branches

Anjung Layar Luncur (Nur Wanita Serasa Branch) Simpang 287, Pantai Serasa (673 2771879)

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

Ar Ruhma Restaurant 329 Blk D Bgn Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 2427847)

Kaka Restaurant 2 & 3 Spg 100 Jln Jerudong (673 2672333) – Call for other branches

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

La Mee #1B & 1c Grd Flr Spg 41-112, Jln Kiarong (673 2430113)

Lee Loi Fatt Blk A #7 Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 2342384) – Call for other branches Mangrove Paradise Resort Spg 912 Kg Sungai Belukut, Jln Kota Batu (673 2786868) MY Favoureat Restaurant 9 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2232828) MyTown Eating House Grd Flr The Crown Princess Complex, Jalan Tutong (673 2241880) Nyonya 3 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbollah, Gadong (673 2447090) Old Time Kopitiam G2 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Ibrahim, Kg Menglait (673 244 282) Pattaya Restaurant Spg 302, Jln Kota Batu, Sungai Lampai, BSB (673 2241721) PappaRich Blk G Grd Flr Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2432333) Pho Hoa Restaurant #6 Grd Flr Blk B Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kg Kiulap (673 2236218) Rice Bowl 72 T.C.Y Building, Batu Bersurat (673 8630665) Sapphira Cake House 3 Grd Flr Seri Anigma, Kiulap (673 2232021) Seasons Restaurant Lvl 2 The Centrepoint, Gadong (673 2422291) Seafood Palace #1, 2 & 3 Blk B An-Nuha Building, Kg Tanjung Bunut (673 2671299) Seaworld Neptune 8 Spg 791, Jerudong (673 2612613)

Sate House Unit B9, Block B, Setia Kenangan II, Spg.150, Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2231017) Sulbingsoo Korean Dessert Cafe Unit B7, Grd Flr, Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2234271) SPICY CURRY & WRAPS FROM ARABIC TO INDIAN CUISINE, CHECK OUT THESE RESTAURANTS IF YOU LIKE A SPICY KICK TO YOUR MEALS. Amsarra Shawarma Unit 5, Grd Flr, Blk A, One Riverside, Jln Gadong (673 7312545) Blue Restaurant Unit 19, Grd Flr, Blk C, Spg 493, Kg Beribi, Jln Gadong (673 2450458) Bombay Palace Restaurant #9 Grd & 1st Flr Blk B Bgn Pg Mainuddin & Anak2, Batu Bersurat (673 2427313) C’Fu Curry House Restaurant Spg 103 #5 & 6 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Md Salleh, Gadong (673 2457000) Delhi Darbar Restaurant & Catering Spg 38 Jln Jerudong (673 2672826) Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant 1A & 1B Heng Thai Property Centre, Spg 22, Jalan Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 2450009) Iskandar Curry House Unit B5, One Riverside, Jln Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan BA1511 (673 2422438) Kausar Café Unit 10, Grd Flr, Blk D, Shakirin Complex, Jln Komersial Kiulap, Kiulap (673 8829495)

LaMesa Restaurant Unit 8, Jln Komersial Kiulap, Kg Kiulap (673 2352863) Le Taj 2-3 2nd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 2238996) Lotus Family Restaurant 27B Grd Flr Delima Jaya Complex, Berakas (673 2342049)

biG listings

Bella Amore Unit 4, Grd Flr, Blk C, Sempurna Complex, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 3347455) Casbah London Kebab #G2a Grd Flr Times Square Complex, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2343001) Charcoal BBQ & Grill Restaurant Grd Flr Le Gallery Suites Hotel, Jln Tutong (673 2221171) – Call for other branches Cheezbox Café External Café, Ramp A, The Mall, Gadong (673 2425506)

SATE HOUSE

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

Sameer Restaurant & Catering G1 Grd Flr Sg Akar Sentral, Berakas (673 2336613)

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

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

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

Saffron Restaurant 8 Blk C Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2235888)

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

WESTERN FOOD ITALIAN PIZZAS, AMERICAN STEAKS AND BURGERS, BRITISH COTTAGE PIES – WE LIST DOWN THE RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE THE BEST FROM THE WEST.

Bello Café L1/12 Seri Kiulap Mall, Kiulap (673 2233989)– Call for other branches Buccaneer Steak House 92-93 (B) 94 Grd Flr Jln McKerron, Kuala Belait (673 3330406) Breakfast at Home Café No 13, Spg 11, Jln Nenas Paun, STKRJ Katok B (673 7366204)

With its wide assortment of Indonesian fare, everything on the Sate House’s menu is appreciated enormously by locals as well as visitors from further beyond. The Nasi Tumpeng (Set A) in particular is a great pick for groups of 3-4 people with its diverse selection of choice, strong traditional flavours as well as its well-presented aesthetics. The generous family sized portion includes yellow coconut rice, chicken satay, crispy fried chicken, beef rending, vegetable fritters, sliced omelette, and much-togood dipping sauces such as their in-house sambal. A quick word of advice; do get in touch with the Sate House team a day in advance if you plan to order their sets. They are awfully popular after all, and walk-ins trying out their luck risk losing out.

Unit B9, Block B, Setia Kenangan II, Spg 150, Kiulap IG: @satehouse.bn FB:@Sate House Brunei

Countrypatch Café 2& 3 Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2232368) – Call for other branches De’ Olde Cottage 2 Grd Flr Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2426982) – Call for other branches Fratini’s Restaurant #1 Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 2451200) – Call for other branches Flour & Butter No. 29, Grd Flr, Bangunan Haji Hassan Abdullah, Jln Gadong, Menglait II (673 242 2323) Geo Eats No. 13, Spg 381, Kg Jerudong (673 8271381) Home Kitchen by Tree-Bit Café D8 & D9 Lot 11620 Grd Flr Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 2429366) Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 8997333) Margherita Pizzeria #5 Blk A Scout Complex Jln Gadong, Kg MataMata (673 8688884) Pastamania G9A & G10A Grd Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Jln Berakas (673 2338061) – Call for other branches

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Pepper Lunch Brunei C9/10 Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2253000) Qasehmaisara Café House #206-209 2nd Flr Plaza Athirah, Jln Kubah Makam DiRaja (673 2789898) Red Canopy Restaurant #8 Blk A Q-Lap Complex, Kg Kiulap (673 2425855) Ricardo’s El Mariachi Jalan Manggis Dua (673 7363139) – Call or WhatsApp for exact location Sorriso Restaurant & Pizzeria #14 Blk B Grd Flr Regent Square, Kiulap (673 2233030) Swensen’s #2.34-2.36 2nd Flr The Mall, Gadong (673 2451864) Triggered Chef No.13, Spg. 41-1-17, Kg Kiarong (673 8633640) – Available on WhatsApp COFFEE & CAFES GOURMET, PREMIUM-GRADE, SPECIALTY COFFEE – THIS LIST ACCOMMODATES THE BEST OF THE BURGEONING LOCAL COFFEE INDUSTRY. Beanery & Co #81 A/1 Grd Flr, Jln Bunga Rambai, Kuala Belait (673 3347772) BELLUNO Café #2 Blk C Kiarong Complex, Kg Kiarong (673 2429010) Bicara Lab 2601, Jln Nakhoda Manis, Seria (IG: @bicara.lab) Brew Café & Bakery #47 Grd Flr Blk C Gadong Central, Menglait (673 2427554) Brew9 Unit 10, Grd Flr, The Walk, Beribi (673 2426986) Black Whale Unit G18A, Grd Flr, Blk C, Aman Hills Shopping Complex (673 2341473) - Call for other branches Caffé Verve #6A Spg 68, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 8757382) Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf G26 Grd Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Jln Jaya Setia, Berakas (673 2337358) Coffee Field Cafe & Resto Unit 5, Grd Flr, Blk A, Little Soho, Spg 73-5-8, Jln Batu Besurat (673 7229042)

Dil Coffee Trail No 15, Spg 68, Jln 82, Skim Perumahan Kg Rimba (673 8298786) - Available on WA

Dynasty Restaurant Grd Flr Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 2430185)

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

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

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

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

Games & Lattes Café #E9 Grd Flr Blk E Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 2235200)

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

Happy Cream Unit 1, 1st Flr, Bgn Majid Mohd, Jln Pasar Baharuddin, Gadong (673 8158587) High Frequency Lifestyle Café 1st Flr Unit 5 Blk B Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2428262) Kapra Coffee #26 Grd Flr Blk C Spg 440, Jln Muara (673 2345656) Ner Dee Café #F11 1st Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 7214977) Noice D29, Bangunan Lim Eng Ming, Kg Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan, BE1518 (673 8266825) Piccolo Café #11 Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2241558) Roasted Sip Unit 3, Grd Flr, Blk D, Spg 508, Jerudong Complex, Jln Jerudong (673 2610850) – Call for other branches The Krema Coffee #D31 Lim Eng Ming Complex Blk D, Kg Kiulap (673 8973600) The Library Café #6 Blk C, Bangunan Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap T’s Coffee No 6, Blk D, A1, Lower Grd Flr, 1 SKH Supermarket, Spg 561, The Promenade Samakaya, Jln Muara (673 7171089) The Slice by IA Gateaux Jalan Pretty, Kuala Belait (673 3338255 / 7374498) - Available on WA Two Sons Coffee C8, Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 7321327) DIVINE DINING EXQUISITE MEALS IN BEAUTIFUL SETTINGS – PERFECT FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Senja Restaurant 8&9 Grd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 2235313) Tarindak d’Polo Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Jerudong (673 2612500) Tarindak D’Seni Brunei Arts & Handicrafts Centre, Kota Batu (673 2240422) DIVINE DINING AT THE EMPIRE BRUNEI Atrium Café Daily à la carte plated breakfast menu from 7am to 11am Lobby Lounge À la carte menu from 10am to 10pm Pantai Restaurant Daily à la carte plated lunch menu from 11am to 4pm Daily à la carte Asian plated dinner menu from 5pm to 9pm Spaghettini Daily à la carte Mediterranean dinner menu from 5am to 5pm Zest Light meals, beverages, pastries and desserts. Daily from 8am to 10pm The Empire Brunei, Jerudong (673 2418888) GO GREEN HEALTHY AND VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY OPTIONS Brunei Detox Bar 9 Grd Flr, Abdul Razak Complex, BE3519 Fuel’d Grd Flr, Unit 4A, Setia Kenangan 2 (673 8749881) – Call for other branches Mituo Vegetarian Restaurant Grd Flr Pg Anak Puteri Norain Complex, Batu Satu (673 2222821) Pureland Vegetarian Restaurant #15 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Awg Ahmad bin Hassan & Anak-anak, Kiulap (673 2236503)

biG listings

MATCHA MANA Located in the heart of the capital, I find that Matcha Mana is a great alternative for sourcing Japanese dishes when diehard cravings for such a cuisine arises. From takoyaki and craft-ramen, to tori katsu curry udon and the salmon soba bowl too, I find that many people tend to forget the sheer weight of Japan’s culinary presence at this humble eatery at the town’s entre. Perhaps it is just the group I roll with who tend to opt for the variety of great Western dishes also on offer here, but for me today, it is the pepperoni and mushroom okonomiyaki taking up space in my mind. That, and the grilled chicken breast laid over a mash of velvety smooth sweet potato. So good!

G1 and G4, Bangunan Haji Ahmad, Jalan SOAS, BSB FB: Matcha.Mana IG: matchamana

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG listings

TienSing Vegetarian & Catering Restaurant 21-22 Bangunan Hj Hassan II, Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 2454988) Veggie Recipe No.20, Grd Flr, Blk B, Simpang 150, Regent Square (673 2236276) QUICK EATS FAST AND DELICIOUS MEALS FOR THOSE ON THE GO Burger King Grd Flr, Citis Square, Kpg Jaya Setia, Berakas A, Brunei-Muara (673 2330760) – Call for other branches Burgers & Grills F20, Jln Tengah Bangunan, Bowling Alley Seria, Kpg Pekan Seria (673 3221434) My Fried Chicken Grd Flr, Freshco Food Junction, Times Square, Kg Jaya Setia Nasi Katok Mama Express No 3 Blk A Grd Flr Kompleks Madang, Madang (673 8641681)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Pan & Wok Grd Flr, Spg 98, Bangunan Hjh Dyg Damit Bte Panglima Asgar Dato Paduka Hj Awg Abdullah, Delima Satu, Berakas A (673 2342399) – Call for other branches RBC Express Fast Food #1 Grd Flr Blk A, Bangunan Hj Matussin, Kg Kiulap (673 2237253) Top Nosh Café Unit 1, Grd Flr, Bangunan Majid Mohammad, Spg 235-7, Jln Pasar Gadong (673 2453889) Wayback Burgers Unit B10-11, Setia Kengan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2236882) NON-HALAL OPTIONS Ban Hiong Restaurant No. 1, Spg 600, Bunut, Kilanas, Brunei-Muara (673 2652426) Golden Leaf Coffee House Blk 1 Grd Flr PAP Hjh Norain Building, Jln Batu Satu (673 2220422)– Call for other branches

TUJUH BY LEMON SALT In a day and age where every new chef on the scene strives to create a unique signature dish or to fuse separate dishes in experimental side quests, sometimes it does people a world of good to step back and appreciate the unadulterated classics. Tujuh by Lemon Salt is a place that has so far garnered attention for whipping up quality gourmet cuisine, with dishes absolutely splendid in appearance living up to their flavour profiles. This quarter it is their take on a classic spaghetti bolognaise that got me hooked on sight alone. Along with those toasted bread sticks, today I could eat this dish for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Little Soho, Batu Bersurat IG: @tujuhbylemonsalt

biG listings

Phongmun Restaurant 2nd Flr Teck Guan Plaza Jln Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2229561) Sui Heng Restaurant Grd Flr Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah Complex, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2338321) Hua Hua Restaurant Grd Flr, Blk B, Bangunan Urairah, Kiulap Wei’s Kitchen No.1, Spg 74-74-31, Kg Mata-Mata

FLOUR AND BUTTER As strange as it sounds to me personally that a person may not actually like cake, such individuals do in fact exist in small pockets in society where they are shunned by those of us with taste buds that work. All jokes aside though, we are fortunate that gastronomy has never been a restrictive passion of our species, and therefore alternatives abound. Take this fresh fruit yoghurt cup for example, as prepared by our friends at the Flour and Butter restaurant. Vibrant colours that make up the dense assembly within a glass that is packed full of yoghurt, granola, chia seeds, mangoes, dragon fruit and topped with mint leaves. Ugh, I want one, and I wanted it 5 minutes ago.

No 29, Ground floor, Menglait (next to Le Apple) IG: @flourandbutterbn FB: @Flour & Butter Café

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biG listings

Sabah & Sarawak The restaurants and eateries listed are arranged by food types, and not in order of our preference. Reviews are written from a typical diner’s perspective and written based on actual visits to the establishments listed, without the prior knowledge of the restaurants. Information given on menus, hours or prices may change and should be checked. Credit Cards : AE | American Express MC | MasterCard V | Visa

EAT (SABAH) BORNEO WILD TREASURE Lot 27-0 Blk C Lrg Bundusan Square1D, Kota Kinabalu (6088 732 222) BRASS MONKEY Lot 1-0 Lorong Lintas Plaza 4, Kota Kinabalu (6088 61 543) CAFÉ DE VIE Lot D-0-6 Lorong Metro Town 3, Kota Kinabalu (6088 393 863) CAFÉ HARU 7, Lorong Gunung Juo, Taman Far East Kota Kinabalu (6010 935 1233) EMPEROR’S DELIGHT Lot 6 Grd Flr Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6088 288 686) FONG IP CAFÉ Lot 100 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 213 618) GAM TONG HONG KONG RECIPE Lot G-823 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 833) GRANDCHAMPS CAVE & SHOP Unit S3A, Ground Floor, Block B, The Peak Vista, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 886) HANA JAPANESE RESTAURANT Lot S21&S22 Blk E City Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 538 178) HUT STEAK HOUSE & RESTAURANT 29 Blk E Damai Plaza, Kota Kinabalu (6088 238 558) JOTHY’S FISH HEAD CURRY & BANANA LEAF Blk 1 Lot G9 Api Api Centre, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 595) 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)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

MAD BEN CAFÉ Lot 121, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 255 073) MAI YAI THAI ORCHID RESTAURANT Lot 13 KK Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu (6088 234 841) MDM ING FISH NOODLE Lot 21 Towering Koidupan Perdana Jln Tambunan, Penampang (6016 831 8726) NAGASAKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT No 19 Grd Flr Bangunan Harrison Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 216 623) NAM CHAI RESTAURANT BAH KUT TEH 10 Blk D Bdr Nam Tung, Sandakan (6089 612 603) NAN YANG CHIC KUT TEH Grd Flr Lot 47 Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6016 833 5722) NATURAL KITCHEN Lot No B10 & B11, Suria Sabah Shoppin Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 487 180) NISHIKIJAPANESERESTAURANT 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) PANCAKE HOUSE Concourse Flr 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 110) Lot G94-94A Karamunsing Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 319 168)

SAKAGURA JAPANESE RESTAURANT G-23A & G-25, Oceanus Waterfront Mall, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu (6088 273 604) SANTOLA CAFÉ Lot 14 Blk B Damai Point, Kota Kinabalu (6088 260 188) SENG HING RESTAURANT Ruang Sinsugan 2, Kota Kinabalu (6088 211 594) SUANG TAIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Lot 12 Blk A Grd Flr SEDCO Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 223 080) SUPUL KOREAN BBQ RESTAURANT Lot S-1-8 1st Flr City Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 844) TOSCANI’S Lot 14 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 242 879) THE B.E.A.N CAFÉ Lot 8-1, Lido Plaza, Jalan Nosoob, Penampang (6088 703 884) Café with a sofa lounge serving coffee and drinks, sandwiches, toasts, waffles, and desserts THE B SIDE Lot 21, Ground Floor, Lido Plaza, Jalan Nosoob Penampang (6088 715 453) – Hipster café offering all-day dining and specialty coffees

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) BEE HIONG RESTAURANT CAFÉ 157G Jln Muhibbah, Lawas (6085 285 137) BEIJING 2008 RESTAURANT SDN BHD 157 Jln Kg Nyabor, Sibu (6084 330 955) BISMI RESTAURANT 947 Jln Parry, Sarawak (6085 416 872) BITES BY THE BATIK 38 Jln Pandungan, Kuching (6082 422 845) BLA BLA BLA 27, Jln Tabuan, 93000, Kuching (6082 2330944) –

CAFÉ CAFÉ AT ORIGINAL CARWASH Low 211-214, Section 9, KTLD, Rubber Rd, Kuching (6082 256 396)

KOREANA RESTAURANT 10002 Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6082 575 072)

DYNASTY CHINESE ESTAURANT Oil Town Comm Complex, Miri (6085 424 000) 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) ESCOBAR SF3 Damai Cenral Pantai Damai Santubong, Kuching (6014 288 1160) FAC BRAVO RESTAURANT 7778 Jln Sultan Iskandar, Bintulu (6086 316 920)

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)

HOCK CHU LEU RESTAURANT 30 Jln Blacksmith, Sibu (6084 316 523) IMPERIAL RESTAURANT Grd Floor, Imperial Hotel, Lot 827, Jalan Pos 98000 MIRI (6085 431 888)

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

YOSHIMI JAPANESE RESTAURANT Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 388)

CARVERY RESTAURANT Jln Abell, Kuching (6082 239 449)

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

YU KEE BAK KUT TEH 74, Jln Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 192)

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

DA MI XIANG GU TOU BAO RESTAURANT Tabuan Hts Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 458 952)

GOLDEN CITY RESTAURANT 87, Jln Ong Chu Seng, Saratok (6083 436 139)

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

EAT (SARAWAK)

KHAN’S ISLAMIC RESTAURANT 229-G Jln Maju, Miri (6085 418 440)

CAFÉ MIN XIN Lot 1126-27 Riam Comm Centre, Miri (6085 628 839)

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

CASABELLA MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT Crown Square, Kuching (6082 346 612) CHEF AT HOME Lorong Green 1 Blk 10, Kuching (6016 858 5159) CHUAN HONG RESTAURANT 123 Jln Council SAman (6083 322 466)

JUBILEE RESTAURANT 49G Jln India, Kuching (6082 245 626)

CUPPA-KAP COFFEE Jln Song, Kuching (6019 8869636)

FARLEY RESTAURANT 1721 Jln Salim, Sibu BLACK BEAN COFFE & TEA (6019 816 3052) 87, Ewe Hai Street, 93000 Kuching (6082 420 290) FEAST & FURIOUS CAFÉ 244, Jln Tunku Abdul BUENAS FILIPINO Rahman (6016 2620916) LECHON & RESTAURANT 329, Phase 4, Parkcity FISHERMAN RESTAURANT Commerce Square, Jin. Tun 4 Jln Chew Geok Lin, Sibu Ahmad Zaidi, Bintulu (6084 316 888) (6086 310 860)

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

RESTORAN MAKANAN SEDAP No 1-0-1 Blk B Jln Kolam Centre Phase 2 Jln Lintas, Kota Kinabalu (6088 247 459)

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

IMPERIAL DUCK RESTAURANT 313 Jln Chan Bee Kiew, Kuching (6082 336 313) JAMES BROOKE BISTRO & CAFÉ Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman 93100 Kuching (6082 412 210)

KUCHING NOODLE PORRIDGE HOUSE 115-1 Wisma Saberkas, Kuching (6082 426 005) L.L. BANANA LEAF 7G Lorong Rubber 1 Jln Rubber, Kuching (6082 239 404) LI GARDEN RESTAURANT 1 Jln Song, CityOne Megamall, Taman Phoning Kuching (6082 532 729) LIM HOCK ANN 96 1 Jln Kg Buntal, Kuching (6082 846 533) LOK THIAN RESTAURANT 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 3313 310) LU LAI VEGETARIAN 3641, Lrg 2 Off Jln Rock, Kuching (6082 242 863) LUCKY RESTAURANT 65C G Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 562) MENAWAN RESTAURANT Grd Floor, Imperial Palace Hotel Lot 1120 Blk 7 Jalan Sehati MCLD 98000 MIRI (6085 432 299) MANGO TREE RESTAURANT Jalan Crookshank, Kuching (6082 235 353) MAP RESTAURANT Bang Terminal, Kuching (6082 459 087) MARCO POLO RESTAURANT Sublot 116-124, Lot 7668, Block 31, Bintulu Sentral, Jln Kidurong, Bintulu (6086 336 666) MEDAN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 56, Jln Mdn Setiaraja, Mukah (6084 874 145) MERRY RESTAURANT 187 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 240 118) METRO CAFÉ 781 Jln Bangkita, Limbang (6085 215 488)

MIN HUA (89) RESTAURANT G 13 Jln Bintang Utara, Bintangor (6084 693 240) MOMOYAMA Wisma Phoenix, Kuching (6082 420 561) 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) MUMMY PATZ DAYAK CAFÉ 80 Uni Central Commercial Centre Kuching, Sarawak (6016 864 4763) PIN PIN CAFÉ 18 Jln Ong Guan Cheng, Sarawak (6082 763 486) PINANG NYONYA 18, Grd Flr, 2nd Precinct, Jln Setia Raja 93450, Kuching (6082 459 162) POPULAR CORNER SEAFOODS RESTAURANT 50 BDA, Jln Abang Galau, Shahida Commercial Centre, Bintulu (6086 334 388) PORTICO 17A Lorong Park Lane, Kuching (6019 819 8046)

SHERATON RESTAURANT 37 Psn Brooke, Sibu (6084 336 341) SRI MENANTI COFFEE HOUSE RESTAURANT 15 Lrg Pahlawan 7b, Sibu (6084 218 196) SURABAYA RESTAURANT 44-62 Jln Indica, Miri (6075 105 871) SUSHI KING The Spring, Kuching (6082 245 355) SUSHI TIE-TTS Wisma Sanyan, Sibu (6084 342 875) TEN-ICHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 319, 313 Jln Chan Bee Kiew, Kuching (6082 331 310) TEO SEAFOOD 787 Jln Kg Buntal, Kuching (6082 846 532)

THE BANQUET 4560 Jln Datuk Tawi Sli, Kuching (6082 451 414) THE 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 Jln Padungan, Bukit Mata, Kuching (6019 889 9838) TRIBAL STOVE Blk H Jln Borneo Taman Sri, Kuching (6082 234 873) WANG HIN RESTAURANT 1 Soon Hup Comm Complex, Miri (6085 413 129) WARUNG NASI KUNING Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6016 809 1286) XIN TSUI SIANG KITCHEN Wisma Nation Horizon Blk D, Kuching (6082 414 616) YUN YAN RESTAURANT Stutong Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 366 115)

ZHUN SAN YEN VEGETARIAN FOOD Lot 165 Jln Chan Ann, Kuching (6082 230 068)

ZINC RESTAURANT & BAR This place has serious underground vibes that appeal to my appreciation for dimly lit interiors. With an appearance consisting of part rough urban and part classy jazz, the eatery operations serve up a fresh selection of great gourmet. Known for their pretty and vibrant mixed drinks which are so aesthetic and appealing they qualify as an OCD bartender’s dream come true, today however it is the seafood paella that has caught my rumbling stomach’s attention. This fabulous taste of Spain which is slow cooked rice with stock also comes laden with squid and fish to complement the crustaceans neatly arranged on top. Divine! 38 Tabuan Road, 93000 Kuching IG: zinckuching FB: Zinc

POT & GRILL RESTAURANT 9 Jln Tun Abd Rahman Yaakub, Kuching (6082 425 525) REJANG RESTAURANT 6 Lrg Lanang 2 Sibu (6016 860 2636) MINORU ROBATA YAKI 493 Section 10 Jln Rubber, Kuching (6082 251 021) NEW SEA VIEW CAFE & RESTAURANT 3&4 Grd Floor, BBC Industrial Estate, Shoplot Mile, 5, Bintulu (6086 318 924) ROCK ROAD SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 1230 Jln Rock Bt 2½ , Kuching (6082 241 575) SALLEH’S CORNER CAFÉ RPR Phase 2 Shoplot Jln Astana Petra Jaya, Kuching (6012 807 8033) SEA VIEW RESTAURANT 144 Jln Abang Galau, Taman Sinong, Bintulu (6086 334 929) Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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.

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.

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), Imagine Sdn Bhd, and Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB) service counters as well as the respective authorised vendors’ stores.

Taxis

TOURIST

INFORMATION

CENTRE

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

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

WATER

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

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

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

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

KALIMANTAN

YOU ORDER

Banks

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

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

$ Money Changer

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

AIR TRAVEL

WE DELIVER

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

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

Taxis

R VISIT OU WEBSITE

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

.com nsider sguide www.b orneoi e b.i.g.m agazin

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Where The

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

AVAILABLE ON AL INTERNATION AVAILABLE ON FLIGHTS, AIRLINE INTERNATIONAL OFFICES, HOTELS, FLIGHTS, AIRLINE S RESTAURANT OFFICES, HOTELS, & CAFES RESTAURANTS T THROUGHOU & CAFES BORNEO THROUGHOUT BORNEO

THINGS Y ADVISE OUR WE STRONGL

READERS TO

AVOID TRAVELL

ING AT THIS

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AND DO YOUR

PART TO #FLATTE

NTHECURVE.

WE STRONGLY ADVISE OUR READERS TO AVOID TRAVELLING AT THIS TIME. STAY HOME AND DO YOUR PART TO #FLATTENTHECURVE.

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

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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.

Taxis

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

Buses

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

AIR TRAVEL

Kuching International Airport services airlines to destinations within Malaysia and overseas via Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia, Firefly, Tiger Airways, Royal Brunei, Silk Air and Batavia Air (Pontianak, Kalimantan). A network of services using smaller aircrafts provides access to remote destinations within Sarawak such as Bario, Mulu and Ba Kelalan.

Money Changer

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.

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

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

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

UR O ! T Y DAY R TA TO S CK ON KI SSI TO SE OW IAL N L E TR L CA RE F

Approach our wellness host at reception for more details

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG screen

What's going on

next door? In conjunction with our visit to our friendly neighbours next door, we delved slightly into the city-state’s film scene where we discovered an impressive selection of movies across multiple genres. From creepy and jumpscare inducing horrors, hilarious comedies, and tear-jerking dramas, to fist-pumping sports, and indie flicks too; Singapore has proven it has an industry that deserves recognition on the international stage.

Republic of Food (2018) Sandcastle (2010) Starring Joshua Tan, Bobbi Chen, and Elena Chia Directed by Boo Junfeng A first encounter with love. The death of his father. His mother’s new romantic interest. Watching the steady deterioration of a grandmother suffering from Alzheimer’s. These series of events send 18-yearold En’s world view teetering onto the brink of collapse as he struggles to learn more about his family’s past before the metaphorical sandcastle is washed away. The film won 2 awards at the Vietnam International Film Festival

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Starring Adrian Pang, Yann Yann Yeo, and Jeffrey Xu Directed by Kelvin Tong In what can only be described as a horror movie for food lovers, the audience is roped into a not-so-distant dystopian future where people worldwide are forced to eat bland synthetic replicas of food due to a plague. Not all heroes wear capes though, as a small band of food lovers defy the authorities to feast on contraband in this comedy about our love for cuisines.

The Maid (2005) Starring Alessandra De Rossi, Benny Soh, and Hong Huifang Directed by Kelvin Tong Hired to help look after their mentally disabled son, things begin to take a turn for the worse when a maid from the Philippines starts work for the Teo family on the first day of the Hungry Ghost Festival. Touted as Singapore’s first locally produced horror film, The Maid broke the domestic horror genre box office during its weekend release, and also won awards in Europe and South Korea.

biG screen

Apprentice (2016) Starring Firdaus Rahman, Mastura Ahmad, and Wan Hanafi Su Directed by Boo Junfeng A young Malay man’s battle with a haunted past and his conscious is thrown into a harsh light, when Aiman, as a correctional officer is assigned as an apprentice to the executioner of a prison. The very same executioner, who in the past carried out the sentence that was passed over Aiman’s own father. The winner of several awards including the NETPAC Award at the Golden Horse Film Festival.

Ah Boys to Men (2012 - 2017) Wet Season (2019) Starring Yann Yann Yeo, Koh Jia Ler, and Christopher Lee Directed by Anthony Chen When a Malaysian teacher is unable to conceive a child with her often absent husband via in vitro fertilisation, she inadvertently seeks solace in the arms of an infatuated student. The inappropriate relationship which gradually deepens and becomes more meaningful for the two is eventually exposed, in this drama that garnered 6 nominations and bagged an award at the 56th Golden Horse Awards.

Starring Joshua Tan, Maxi Lim, and Noah Yap Directed by Jack Neo The highest grossing Singaporean film of all time, which spawned 3 follow-up films, follows the journey of a new group of army recruits undertaking their national service with the military. This popular satirical comedy developed a cult following that resulted in the subsequent films being made while buoyed by popular audience support and demand.

Kallang Roar the Movie (2008) Starring Lim Kay Siu, Ram Santhanaram Jayaram, and Randall Tan Directed by Cheng Ding An In a patriotic nod to undiluted unity through the love of sport, an unorthodox gem of a coach affectionately known as Uncle Choo, makes a defiant return to the Singapore football scene in 1977. Backed by a squad of great players representing the Chinese, Malay, and Indian ethnic groups, this tale of sheer grit and unbreakable will sees the national team winning the Malaysia Cup.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG screen

MOVIES TO LOOK OUT FOR THIS QUARTER Now that our Island, region, and the wider world is well underway to reopening up again, we feel a lot more positive that the constant schedule postponements we got used to over the past 2 years will be a thing of the past. So fingers crossed that these upcoming films prove to be entertaining as well as meeting their deadlines for release.

JUL

THE GRAY MAN

Starring Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, and Ana de Armas

A global hunt that sees assassins set loose to hunt down an operative deemed by the CIA as their top asset ensues, when the agent known simply as the Gray Man uncovers agency secrets they would rather keep hidden from the world.

SECRET HEADQUARTERS

DON’T MAKE ME GO

Starring John Cho, Mia Isaac, and Kaya Scodelario

When a single father learns he has a fatal brain tumor, he embarks on a road trip to reunite his daughter with the mother who abandoned her years ago. During this journey he strives to teach her everything she might need to know to survive life after him.

AUG

JUL

SAMARITAN

Starring Sylvester Stallone, Pilou Asbæk, and Martin Starr

JUL 8

THOR: LOVE AND THUNDER

Starring Walker Scobell, Owen Wilson, and Michael Peña

Starring Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, and Christian Bale

When a regular everyday kid discovers that a powerful superhero has his headquarters located right beneath his family’s home, he along with a group of friends strive to protect it when villains launch an attack on it.

The MCU’s much loved hammer swinging hero is back, but this time the God of Thunder is accompanied by the Goddess of Thunder. With Thor’s love interest being transformed into his female equivalent, this is one adventure we look forward to as they battle the god slayer Gorr the God Butcher.

AUG 5

SALEM’S LOT

Starring Alfre Woodard, Lewis Pullman, and Makenzie Leigh

A dark new take on the superhero genre and based on Mythos Comics and graphic novels. Sylvester Stallone is a famous superhero who went missing after an epic battle 20 years ago, until a young boy discovers that he may in fact, away from the limelight still be around.

More than 40 years after its original release in 1979: Salem’s Lot, the unassuming town populated by vampires gets the remake treatment in this modern day tribute to the novel of the same name by the Master of Horror, Stephen King.

LUCK

Starring Jane Fonda, Whoopi Goldberg, and Simon Pegg

When an unlucky girl, Sam Greenfield, stumbles into the never-before-seen world of pure luck, she must team up with magical creatures as the curtain is drawn back on the millennia-old conflict between the rival organisations of both good and bad luck.

SEP 9

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

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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BiG Magazine July/September 2022 Issue

Articles inside

Brunei food reviews

Earth’s Largest Greenhouse 29 Journey to the Lost World 30 You just got Served 31 Scrolling down Memory Lane 32 Let the Fun Resume

Seriously Fun Thymes 34 Hawker Centre Reimagined 35 A Jewel Like No Other

Travel Hacks

I Spy with my EOS R5

Diamond in the Rough 23 Families that Eat Together, Stay Together 24 Kopitiam by Day, Café by Night 25 Berry Wonderful & Life is Short, Eat Dessert First

Balms for the Soul & Play my way with polymer clay

Bubbly Minds 20 From Book Hater to Best Selling Author 21 A Bookworm’s Sweet Spot

Our Travel Pearls