Oct // Dec 2017
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Editor’s Note W
henever I go to Johor Bahru to visit my parents who are in their strong eighties, my older siblings and their families will come together for a large meal at dad’s favourite restaurant and we snap photographs of the food to share on the family group chat. My family is like a hazelnut muffin – sweet, with a few nuts like me in it. We take pot shots at each other, embrace our gluttony and crack lame jokes that would make anyone’s eyes roll. It may not sound like much but these are the moments with my family that I will miss when I am back in Brunei. The actor Michael J. Fox once said, family is not an important thing. It’s everything. The older I get, the more I feel that is true. I don’t see my family members often, yet they are at the centre of my universe, which is also home to other clusters of star families: a handful of close friends, BiG colleagues, old friends from school. Whoever makes up your families, count your blessings for you have them. In our BiG Trail, we feature three families who show us that building a successful family business entails each member working towards the same goal and having each other’s back. In our BiG screen, we highlight some wonderful family-themed movies that made us cheer and cry and remind us that families who stick together at the end of the day win the battles, whether it is life battles or wars with aliens. And sprinkled throughout this issue are a few family-focused ideas on where to vacation, enjoy Sunday brunch and what’s new at the fun-filled Jerudong Park. As always, we like to talk to cool people and in BiG Talk, we learn more about the new Progresif Radio that will be launched this October, from their affable CMO, Devin Edwards, and we find out from Keeran Janin what it took to create a luxury watch with a tennis legend. So, let’s celebrate cool people, awesome families and the end of the year. We’ll be back in 2018!
@bigborneo BIG: Borneo Insider’s Guide @bigborneo Publisher
CHMP MEDIA Editor-At-Large
Wan Zainal Shazali Editor
Pauline Chan Online Editor
Intan Abu Daniel Designer
Novri Rinaldi Editorial
Pamela Fletcher Thanis Lim Intern
Amal Azhanie Kadir Sales & Marketing
Bina Chauhan Brunei | biG
biG stands for Borneo Insider’s Guide. It is a quarterly magazine that aims to entertain and share with readers the best there is to offer on lifestyle and travel in enigmatic Borneo and beyond. It is distributed at travel fairs, international events and Brunei high commissions abroad. biG is available at the arrival hall of Brunei International Airport, Brunei Tourism offices, Royal Brunei Airlines business class, all hotels, popular food and beverage outlets and foreign missions in Brunei. biG has a distribution network in the neighbouring states through the Sabah and Sarawak Tourism Boards as well as via prominent hotels in the respective capitals. Besides being Brunei’s very own publication for bridging its residents with a myriad of commercial and cultural offerings within the country, each issue also serves as the world’s window into the rich tapestry of Borneo’s life and culture. www.borneoinsidersguide.com
contact@borneoinsidersguide.com T: (673) 2331031 F: (673) 2231031 Unit 49, Second Floor Haji Munchit & Hajah Dayang Rapiah Complex Kg Jaya Setia, Berakas, BB2713 Brunei Darussalam
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various writers in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of biG Magazine.
events
Opening of the Sg Kebun Bridge in conjunction with the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s Accession to the throne
TO look
out FOR
Brunei
this quarter
Oct 14
Sarawak Adventure Challenge SARAWAK One whole day of adrenaline pumping race for those who want to test their limits in mountain biking, trail running and caving through the landscapes of Western Borneo.
OCT 29nov 5
27th Borneo Safari International Off-Road Challenge Sabah The competition sets the participants off into the rugged terrains of Sabah, covering approximately 1,000km of extreme driving conditions to unleash the spirit of adventure, teamwork and putting their four wheel driving skills to the test.
OCT 7
The inauguration of the now tallest structure in Brunei will be one of the highlights of the 50th Anniversary Celebrations of His Majesty Sultan of Brunei’s accession to the throne. The city will be alive with fireworks and decorated boats parading across Brunei River.
Oct 15 30th Mt. Kinabalu International Climbathon
Borneo Bird Festival 2017
SABAH
Sabah Experienced mountain runners are racing to the finishing line to be the next world champion in the arduous climb/run up Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dec 9-10 Auto Fest BRUNEI The Auto Fest will be held at the Jerudong Park Amphitheatre and it promises to be lively showcase of the automotive scene in Brunei with gaming, food and beverage and merchandise for sale.
NOV 18-19 SARAWAK This annual regatta that takes place along the Sarawak River is an event not to be missed. Villages in Sarawak will be sending out their representatives to claim the title ‘Raja Sungai’ – the king of the river.
www.bruneitourism.travel | www.sabahtourism.com | www.sarawaktourism.com
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
In promoting Borneo as a premier birding destination, the two-day festival is all about raising awareness on the birds of Sabah, which is home to 668 bird species. There will be many kinds of activities for participants of all ages.
Contents biG dates See what’s happening in Borneo this quarter biG feature Stories so unique it can only be from Borneo
Sarawak Regatta 2017
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OCT 20-22
biG scoop Presenting our scoop on things to love and desire biG talk We chat with personalities and discover their specialities biG trail Follow our trails and discover what
is on the island
can follow suit
biG buzz We put our ears up and find out what’s buzzing in town
biG listings Where to eat, drink and chill? Come with us and see
biG getaway Near or far, we go on holiday for your benefit biG drive What has wheels and is cool to be seen in, let us show you biG appetite We try the food so you
biG essentials Helpful tips for visitors arriving on our shores biG navigator Find your bearings with our walking maps biG screen See what’s playing in the cinemas around town
biG feature
BiG
feature
Away to
Kuala Belait! When the nice people at Volkswagen said, “Here, take our Passat”, we thought it would be a great idea to go to Kuala Belait and remind ourselves what’s there. So off we went, four in a Passat, whizzing into the land with the giant tea set.
F
rom the highway to Kuala Belait, we take the Mumong exit and realise how convenient it is that right after getting off the highway, the KB Sentral shopping centre beckons. Time for brunch and so we parked in their multi-
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storey car park and decided on the All Seasons Restaurant on the first floor for a spot of dim sum, and we ended up overdosed on their fried custard bun with salted egg which was delightful, to say the least. KB
Sentral is very similar to Times Square in Bandar Seri Begawan in the range of shops and food and beverage outlets available, that’s because they’re both run by the same group and you can be sure that what you love in Time
Square, you’re going to get it in KB. For a staycation in KB, there are several options in town centre but Garden Sentral Hotel is conveniently situated right above the shopping centre and they are spacious beyond expectations.
biG feature
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1. The giant teapot
in the middle of a roundabout 2. Fresh, flaky egg tarts on display at Jee Juan Coffee Shop 3. Gerai Bunga Simpur food court 4. Oozing hot salted egg custard in a fried bun from All Seasons Restaurant
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On our way out to KB Town, we just had to do a drive-by snapshot of the teapot structure at the roundabout, the colossal emblem of Kuala Belait. A quick pause, click click, and we swung into the town centre, which is often described as ‘a street with two blocks of shophouses’. That may be a fact but you know the saying
that all good things come in small sizes, right? There are gems to be found here. Let’s start with food places. Where cafés go, Marilyn Café, on Jalan Pretty and Beanery & Co, located beside a laundromat behind the said two blocks of shophouses, are two superb places to chill. For lunch, Zaika, along Jalan Bunga
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Raya, serves authentic Northern Indian cuisine if you’re hankering for a touch of spice. Nobody who lives in KB town doesn’t know Jee Juan Coffee Shop, which is a classic bakery slash restaurant famed for their loaf bread, coconut and peanut buns, butter cake and simple fried noodles with luncheon meat. If
you ask anyone who likes roasted duck, there’s no competition for Lau Fu Chai’s duck, whose stall is next to the Foo Chow association. He certainly has a golden recipe because his duck is lean, juicy and tender, and it’s so good that it runs out within an hour of his stall opening. In the same area, you can get smooth
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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biG feature
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fishballs and yong tauhu stuffed with fish paste at Lai Khuan Gerai Makan, and if you’re there at night, the satay stall that opens only at night is one of the best places for meat satay including liver, tripe and lungs. A few steps away, under a gigantic tree, is the Gerai Bunga Simpur, a great place to get both halal and non-halal food. The food stalls at the KB morning market is where the locals like to be early in the morning. The stalls here close between 10-11am and it is usually packed, especially on weekends. You can get great cheap food here like dry wonton noodles, fried kuey teow and noodles, and porridge with crispy yu char kueh. Similar food can be found at the Tudung Saji, along with other local delights - fried fritters, rojak sotong (cuttlefish rojak) and icy cold ABC to quench your thirst. On that hot and humid day, we went looking for a cool treat. Within the Mumong housing area, there is a house selling coconut ice cream and coconut desserts,
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including ice cream sandwiches and ice cream in a burger bun. It takes some twists and turns to find De Sha’s Ice Cream but then our online editor, who is totally savvy with the google map app got us there without a hitch. Along Jalan Dipa Negara, Ma Phrao Awn Ice Cream
place serves delicious Thai-style coconut milkshakes and ice cream in a coconut shell, cut fresh when you make your order. While it seems like we’ve spent a large amount of time indulging in food during our day trip, we haven’t forgotten the outdoor recreational places.
While you are in town, you can easily walk to the playground and park along the Belait River opposite the blue-roofed fish and vegetable market, Pasarneka Kuala Belait. It is a breezy place for an evening walk, and kids can play and look at the boat activities along the river. Walk
biG feature
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5. Coconut ice cream from Ma Phrao Awn 6. River views seen from the playground 7. A quaint-looking alley in KB town 8. Fried noodles, porridge and crispy yu
char kueh from the KB morning market 9. Billionth Barrel Monument 10. Menara Cendera Kenangan
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along the footpath to V Hotel, which offers rooftop dining while you enjoy great views of sunsets and KB town. Besides the teapot landmark, there are two more to see before heading back to Bandar Seri Begawan – the Menara Cendera Kenangan, a monument built to mark the 50th birthday of His Majesty, which is adjacent to the V hotel, and the Billionth Barrel Monument, a symbol of the billionth barrel of oil produced in Brunei. After that, it was time for another long ride back to the BiG office in the comfort of the VW Passat.
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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biG scoop
Fashion Fantasy Premier fashion label, PHANTACi, founded by the king of Mandopop Jay Chou, has arrived at Imago Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu! First introduced in Taiwan in 2006, this is the brand’s third overseas outlet after Beijing and Singapore. PHANTACi is inspired by elements from sports to street fashion for that effortlessly luxurious cool look. Having collaborated with other brands such as Nike, Puma, Casio, New Balance, Stussy and G-Shock to produce a variety of products and merchandise, PHANTACi is all about style, quality and vision. The price tag might be a bit hefty but then, who doesn’t want to look as cool as Jay Chou? •• Lot G47-B & G48-B, Grd Floor, Imago Shopping Mall, Kota Kinabalu
FB: PHANTACi Sabah
Scent of a woman The Digital Life Give your digital life an upgrade with the latest tools of communication and all the things you need to dress it up. The AV Group re-launched its mobile store into AV Mobile, Digital Life Store in Times Square Mall in June. The new store brings you not just phones but also laptops, travel and storage accessories, eyewear and other lifestyle products from over 40 brands. Expect to find the full range of Apple, Samsung and Huawei products along with Sonic Gear and Alcatroz audio and gaming products, Supershades eyewear, Console Games, Aztech home security, Agva bags and cases, Steelseries gaming accessories and more. AV Mobile offers the largest range of certified mobile devices with worry-free warranty. Brunei AV Mobile has nine stores in Brunei. •• G22, Grd Flr, Times Square Shopping Centre, Berakas FB: @avmobilebrunei
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After years of running various businesses, Natasha Sharena Idris decided to dedicate her latest venture to her first love - perfume. Hailing from Keningau, Natasha who is of Murut descent wanted to create her own brand of fragrances that represent the timeless beauty of Sabah’s indigenous women. Her signature fragrance ‘Olumist’ (a fruity floral scent) comes from the word ‘olumis’ which means ‘smooth complexion’, and another ‘Rumandawi’ (a blend of strawberry, bergamot and vanilla) means ‘beautiful maiden’. Her fragrances can be purchased in 20ml and 35 ml bottles, selling at RM35 and RM55 respectively from her Facebook. •• FB: @avanusempire
biG scoop
Hours of Fun If you need places to entertain your little ones for a couple of hours, Fun Blocks Edutainment provides a collection of childrenfriendly environments where they can play and learn at the same time. For the little ones in
kindergarten and primary school, you can bring them to Fun Blocks Interactive Playground (level 3, Hua Ho Mall, Kg Manggis, Jln Muara) and learn about adult occupations by pretending to be firefighters, police officers, doctors and more. Older kids can enjoy ice-skating at the Fun Blocks Ice Skating &
Games centre (Units A1-4, One Menglait Industrial Park, Spg 51, Kg Menglait) and parents can join in and glide along with them. •• Fun Blocks Interactive Playground and Ice-Skating & Games Tel: 673-7246555 FB: @funblocksplaygroundbn
Building Blocks Bricks 4 Kidz will appeal not just to kids but to their mummies and daddies who are obsessed with Lego too. Bricks 4 Kidz has programs for children of different age groups to play with Lego bricks and build anything their imagination creates. There are classes for pre-schoolers (aged 2 ½ to 5) and elementary (aged 5 to 13) and teachers use Lego brick models to teach topics such as the laws of motion, space, robotics, inventions and encourages them to explore with their minds. ••
Unit D-G2, 1st Flr, Times Square Shopping Centre, Berakas Tel: 673-2342900 FB: @brick4kidzbrunei www.bricks4kidz.com.bn 14
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
Babe Central It’s only natural to want to spoil your precious darlings, so lull them into an easy state at Little Spa Kingdom, where babies and kids (up to four years old) are given the superstar treatment. There are massages, yoga, swimming sessions for babies and toddlers, and a Little Pamper Salon to give your little ones hair and nail treatments. Mummies get a break with a neck rub to de-stress and relax. There is a variety of packages for baby spa
services that last from 2 months to a year. Besides the spa services, there is a daycare program that includes sensory activities, arts and crafts/ music sessions, meals and the all-important nap time. Mothers can also sign up for bonding sessions with their babies. ••
Unit 14 & 15, Grd Flr, Little Soho, Kg Pengkalan, Gadong BE 3719 Tel: 673-892119 IG: @littlespakingdom www.little-spa-kingdom-bn.com
Keeping it Real Virtual Dimension is Sabah’s first virtual reality centre that offers more than epic adventures into incredibly realistic dimensions of sight, sound and sensation. Located at Plaza 333, their VR Experience Centre is a fusion of sports and games where you can learn new skills in archery, skiing, shooting, fencing and more that comes complete with actual motions to engage yourself interactively. Its 7 stations can be linked for multi-player games such as paintball making it a fun experience for the whole family to enjoy. Prices range from RM35 for half hour to RM70 for an hour with members paying RM25 and RM50 respectively. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, adrenaline junkie or creative artist, Virtual Dimension has a virtual world to suit your imagination! •• 2nd Flr, Block H, Plaza 333, 89500 Penampang, Sabah Tel: 6088-742 817 FB: @virtualdimensionkk
Sweet Souvenir When it comes to souvenirs, one of the best things to take home from the Abode of Peace is a piece of Bruneian delicacy. Junjung’s local kuih will remind you of your visit to Brunei and these sweet treats come beautifully packaged with many flavours to choose from. Their cakes and biscuits are made locally, some infused with local fruits to give you a true Bruneian experience. These bite-sized colourful and attractive kuih are individually wrapped for freshness and will make a pretty present. Junjung is conveniently located at the Brunei International Airport departure hall. •• Tel: 673-2425913 FB: @junjungdelicacy
The Kampung Legacy As a curator at the Sabah Art Gallery, Jennifer P. Linggi is well versed with the art scene in her country. Although she was trained as an architect and worked outside Sabah as a designer, Jennifer’s passion for art led her to return to
Sabah and explore the intricate process of creation that gives life to art. The Kampung Legacy - A Journal of Sabah’s Traditional Baskets is Jennifer’s illustrated documentation of the woven artefacts crafted by the ethnic groups of Sabah. Not contented to just illustrate and describe the baskets, Jennifer stayed with the elderly craftsmen and women in an effort to better understand the many stages of basket-making and the lifestyles of the artisans who spend many hours creating them. The Kampung Legacy is an homage to the village folk and their industry, a book to preserve and illuminate the cultural practices which are in danger of disappearing. The Kampung Legacy can be bought or ordered from the Sabah Art Gallery (shipping charges apply.) For more information about the book, write to Jennifer: jplinggi@yahoo.co.uk Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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BiG
si ogre The Pr
talk
f Ce
l ll u
ar
CM O, D evin E
dwards
The Progresif Radio team: Seated (from L to R): Jenny Malai Ali, Tiwin Aji, Olivia Ong, Liam Janin and Idham Abas. Standing: (from L to R): Radi El Fassed, Iskandar Zulkipli, Shahrin Matusin and Devin Edwards
investment and maximise the availability for the end user too. So we’ve got the livestreaming, we’ve got the catch-up radio and we’re also going be able to stream other radio stations through the app itself. We’re going to have a full, on-demand library where any aspiring podcaster or aspiring radio talent out there will be able to submit their podcast and we’ll have those in the on-demand section. By developing these multiple streams of content, there will be something for everybody.
The Sweet Sound Of Radio Progresif Cellular recently held an open audition on August 20 at their headquarters for radio DJs and aspiring DJs to join their organization. That’s right. The people at Progresif are starting their own streaming radio app, simply called, Progresif Radio, which will be launched in October. We find out what’s bubbling in the Progresif studios from Devin Edwards, their Chief Marketing Officer.
Progresif is a telecommunications provider, how did radio get into the picture? Telecommunications has changed, it continues to change and evolve. It has gone from being a utility, much like electricity or gas, or water, to being something that’s much more lifestyle focused. I guess it started when our brochure evolved into a magazine, which evolved into quite a large engine for developing content in and around our brand, so radio became a natural evolution of that. There is also a number of global radio music apps that
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are not easily available and accessible in Brunei because of the geography, size and population. So, the idea for us to be able to take and put something together that culminates the best of what’s available globally, while providing some localised content and flavour to that just seemed like a natural progression. How will it be different from other local radio services? The mobile evolution has tried to improve upon the limitations of terrestrial radio. So for instance, if you’ve got a favourite show
that you like to listen to and you don’t happen to be in the car or have a radio, you miss it, then it’s gone. What we’ve tried to do is take what has been done globally in the mobile space that has improved on the terrestrial space, and try to blend it together into a single instance. So, we will have live DJs working around twelve plus hours a day so you can have livestream. Anything that goes live, we’ll put into what we call catch-up radio. From a social perspective, people can even share the content with their social network so it’s a way to maximise the content
Who will have access to this radio service? Everybody, it’s not only for customers of Progresif. It will be available on the App Store or the Google Playstore so anyone can download the app and listen to the live streaming and most of the on-demand content. The only restriction might be that you can only download the app while you’re in Brunei.
The Progresif Radio app will be launched in October. For updates check their website progresif.com. The above is an excerpt from our full interview with Devin about Progresif Radio, read more of the conversation on www.borneoinsidersguide.com
biG talk
Time with A Legend As tennis fans, we watch tennis matches, follow the journeys of tennis stars, and maybe get on the tennis court and fight some battles. Bruneian-born Keeran Janin is no different, but this fan has gone one step further, he doesn’t want to just watch them, he wants to work with them. Keeran, who is a multi-faceted designer of tech apps and jewellery, now turns his focus to luxury watches, and has introduced his maiden watch the Avantist Legend Series – a limited edition watch celebrating the great achievements of tennis legend Martina Navaratilova. To make it truly special, each watch contains a length of string from her racquet she used to win the Wimbledon Ladies Single final in 1987.
“M
y goal with the Legend series was to create a watch that could inspire people to achieve great things just from looking at their watch to tell the time.“ To achieve a great timepiece, Keeran worked with a team in Switzerland who is behind some of the most famous and prestigious brands in world such as Omega, IWC and Panerai. The Avantist Legend Series was launched on the sidelines of
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the Wimbledon Championships this year with Martina Navratilova gracing the launch and treating the invited guests to an intimate fireside chat where she shared her amazing life story. Of the tennis legend herself, Keeran gushed, ”She is one of the easiest persons to talk to straight to the point, candid, honest, yet very kind. It’s been such a privilege to be able to work so closely with her. She’s been very involved in the whole
process. It was fitting that we were launching the 30-piece limited edition watch as it was almost 30 years to the day that Martina was there and won Wimbledon with the very same strings in the watch.” “The initial batch of 10 pieces from the launch were sold out, it takes time to produce and assemble the watches but the remainder of the Martina Navratilova collection is being delivered right now.”
The Legend series will not be limited to featuring tennis icons but any legend or inspirational moment in history. Keeran and his team are working on some really interesting new models and updates on their projects can be seen on their Instagram (@avantist.ch). Keeran will continue to develop the Avantist brand through his company Savantime. “Avantist watches is the first of the brands we’re launching - focusing on limited edition luxury Swiss-made timepieces. We will soon be making our watches available through select retailers in Brunei, Singapore, London, Bangkok and Hong Kong. Besides that, I still have my passion for jewellery, so expect to hear something about that very soon.”
For more information about the Avantist Legend Series go to: www.avantist.ch If you want to own an Avantist watch, you can contact them via their website or through excellence@avantist.ch and their sales team will get in touch directly.
biG feature
BiG trail
The Little Gems of TANJUNG BUNUT PLACE As you drive along Jalan Tutong away from the Royal Palace, you’ll find that it is a mighty long road and if you carry on that way, you’ll end up in Tutong District. But first, you will pass a series of kampungs, where one ends and the other one begins, it’s hard to tell. The signboards are not obvious but somehow the locals just know where they are. In between Kampung Madewa and Sengkurong is Kampung Bunut and the BiG team went to check out the scene in the buzzing Tanjung Bunut Place.
EAT 8 BYTES CAFÉ Not only will you get food, drinks and desserts in this café run by a tight-knit family, you will also get clothes by Rose+Armor (@roseandarmor), board games and a retro gaming set. We certainly think it’s pretty cool to play Mario Bros. while sipping on a cheerful-looking Unicorn Milkshake. OMAMA Not to be confused with Obama, the Omama Restaurant offers the cheapest packet rice in the area through an opening in the wall, only $1. If you want more than that, then step inside because then you’ll discover their other
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specialities – ayam bakar (grilled chicken), ayam penyet and grilled ikan bawal (pomfret). SEGAFREDO ZANETTI ESPRESSO Early risers will be thankful for a cup of coffee at Segafredo for they open bright and early at 7am. Yes, the Italian Segafredo coffee is available on the ground floor of Hua Ho Tanjong Bunut along with breakfast sets, antipasti, cakes, creamy Italian gelato and their own coffee beans.
SHOP AL RIZQIN CUBE SHOP Cube shops are just mushrooming all over the country, appealing
to aspiring vendors who have something to offer but on a small scale. Al Rizqin Cube Shop sells a wide range of affordable products from sunglasses to clothes, beauty products to snacks. It’s always interesting to browse the cubes and see what’s displayed through the windows, giving new meaning to the term window-shopping! ARIANA COLLECTION The whole shop is about pretty head scarves and shawls, with brands from Kekaboo, Anaqeen and Kimi Dorothy . If you are a Star Wars fan, then head on over here and pick up some scarves printed with motifs of BB8, Stormtroopers and C3PO and may the force be with you.
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BTC MAY TAILOR This is a boutique as well as a tailor as you can purchase ready-made garments for women and little girls. They have an assortment of cut fabric and a range of accessories for you to build a complete look. ZRQ COLLECTS Superheroes gather here, in miniature form. The owner has been collecting comic book hero collectibles for a long time and displays many of them in the shop together with merchandise from Marvel and DC Comics, making the shop so much more interesting. LIFESTYLE VENUE When the dress code calls for
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1. 8 Bytes Cafe 2. ZRQ Collects 3. Ariana
Collection 4. Segafredo Zanetti Espresso 5. Jambang’s Barber Shop
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cool denims and plaid shirts, you can count on Lifestyle Venue for well-priced casual apparel from U.S.A and the U.K. The friendly owners will personally attend to your needs whether it’s shirts, jeans or khaki pants.
GROOM JAMBANG’S BARBER SHOP When you walk into Jambang’s, you’ll get a feast for the eyes and a haircut. The cool guys at this barber shop will give you good grooming while you admire the various fun and
amusing decorative elements in there.
WASH EZZY LAUNDRY DOBI Watch your clothes spin and get cleaned at the coinoperated laundromat Ezzy. Signs over the machines show you the price list and instructions on what to do, and according to the banner, you get free detergent, softener and WiFi, now that’s a plus for highly connected customers.
biG trail
All in the
Family 1
Running a family business is often a toss-up between a passion project and an entrepreneurial endeavour. Pitted against the harsh realities of life where passion alone doesn’t always pay the bills, these families managed to find the balance between making a living and living a dream, and they couldn’t have done it all without their family working right beside them. Pamela Fletcher Farming for Life Just a short way up Signal Hill, and down into a secluded valley, is a family-run farm that has transformed the lives of so many others that its owner, Lee Thien Fook, has become somewhat of a local celebrity. He started his farm during one of the darkest periods in his life when he was hit simultaneously
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by the collapse of his family restaurant business and discovery of his wife’s cancer. He took stock of his priorities and focused on getting the best care for his wife, and this included looking for healthy organic food to supplement her diet. He couldn’t and so he embarked on planting his own organic vegetables on his mother-in-law’s
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plot of ancestral land at Signal Hill. Soon other cancer patients were lining up to purchase his organic produce and the farm flourished to include poultry and fish that are grown on organic feed to maximize their nutrition value. Opening up a restaurant was a natural progression in Lee’s quest to introduce healthy eating to the communities around him and he brought his two sons, Corvin and Lee Si Khiew, on board to manage it. The farm-to-table experience at Signal Hill Eco Farm has become so much more than a man’s devotion to his wife. It has evolved into a life-changing experience driven by the core values of what it means to
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biG trail
be family. Every staff at the farm from the planters to the cleaners and the cooks is family to Lee, and they in turn treat the farm as their own home. Everyone has their own roles and responsibilities but each one is able to take on various other tasks to keep the farm going. Even his wife, who has overcome cancer and is living life as best she can, helps out at the farm. Having the same vision of being united as a family, no matter what the circumstances,
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has made this business a triumph over adversity. Very little time is spent on squabbles, if any, as Lee continues to build on his success and to keep health and family values as the driving force behind his work.
Second Chances While contemplating a spot of spring cleaning one day, Felicity Jinu and her family were faced with a daunting task especially with six children in the house who are self-confessed
1. Lee Thien
Fook checking out his produce on his farm 2. Felicity Jinu and her family in their bookshop 3. Datuk CL Chan with his wife and son.
bookworms. A good 30 odd years of growing up amongst books meant shelves stuffed with children’s books, teenage love stories, adult fiction and everything in between. As they sat there in front of the bookshelves and books that quite honestly, despite loving them, have not been read for ages and not likely to be read again, the idea to set up the 2nd Chance Shop was born. It was their father, Fred Jinu, who encouraged Felicity and her sisters Feona and Faye to start the business. She remembers her father saying that although it wasn’t going to be a big money making scheme, they should consider it as some sort of community effort in their area. “He said it’s good to encourage people to come in, sit down and read and maybe slowly they will start to love reading too,” reminisces Felicity fondly. 2nd Chance Shop started off as just a shop with a mix of odd shelves they got from here and there, and an old sofa set their father brought in from the house. Feona took charge of the project with everyone pitching in to sort out, catalogue and sell the books. Then it dawned on them that there may be others just like them, with tons of books looking for a new home so they began taking in books and selling them for a commission at the shop. Both Fred and Feona have since passed away but their love for books and desire to share this passion with others has kept the store going after more than 17 years. Sales in the past years have dwindled and the thought of closing down 2nd Chance Shop did cross their minds but for Felicity, Faye and their mother Celestina, the legacy of how it began, and the continued interest of the few who still find refuge, solace and joy within the pages of these once loved books at 2nd
Chance Shop has now given the shop its own second chance.
A Natural Choice Datuk CL Chan started his family business first with his sister, Rosalind, running a gift shop before his keen interest in natural history set him on a 25-year career in publishing. Natural History Publications was a passion project for CL Chan which allowed him to delve into the wonders of Borneo’s natural history with titles on wildlife ranging from beetles, frogs and mammals to orchids, Rafflesias and birds. His interest grew to include more obscure subjects that target a very niche market of natural history readers, so much so that his reputation as a publisher would be more prominent overseas where interest in these subjects were more wide spread. “The whole idea of publishing books on natural history started because there weren’t any good reference materials on the plants and animals of Borneo,” says Chan. “But it’s hard to fit the niche market and make a handsome profit at the same time. I consider it my contribution to Sabah, and Borneo, to document all these information.” Lack of funding has always been the biggest challenge to keep the business afloat and wife Connie, who handles all matters related to the company’s finance and stock, is quick to advise him on which titles to publish to at least make some decent sales. Chan recognizes the fact that book publishing is a waning industry and may no longer exist in its true form in the near future. Being perhaps the sole publisher in Sabah willing to print this genre of books, Chan vows to continue for as long as possible and his family will always be there to support him and his passion for natural history.
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advertorial
A Home Is Where The Heart Is Moving to a new country and finding the right place to stay is never easy. Sometimes the options are too many and other times, there’s just not enough to choose from. Armada Properties aim to alleviate the pain of house hunting to a minimum, especially for those with families. The Rimba Estate offers a home away from home for both the expatriate community and locals who are transitioning between homes. The property consist of a range of welldesigned apartments and houses, all fully furnished with regular maintenance and round-
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the-clock security, making it a hassle-free choice whether it is for an individual or a family with little ones. The estate is conveniently accessed via the Tungku Link Expressway and is only ten minutes by car to the Brunei International Airport and Gadong commercial areas, two minutes to the Giant hypermarket and five minutes to the exquisite Empire Hotel and Country Club. The Rimba Estate is a beautifully landscaped 12-acre development with plenty of greenery and fresh air where residents can enjoy the great outdoors. Kids can bike around
or have hours of fun at the playground, and with excellent sporting facilities for swimming, badminton, tennis and basketball, one can easily keep up with a healthy lifestyle without leaving the compound. There are also communal recreational facilities for neighbourly gatherings and family activities. The community environment within the Rimba Estate is evident whenever the festive season comes round. The yearly Hari Raya Aidilfitri is celebrated collectively with the residents from other nations, fostering harmony and cultural
understanding. Every year, the Earth Hour is observed throughout the estate with the residents coming together for a good cause and families teach the young to do their part to save energy. There’s no place like home, and at Armada, they don’t just provide a house, they welcome you to a family. Rimba Estate Simpang 90, Jalan Dang Kumala, Kpg Perumahan Rimba, Bandar Seri Begawan BE3119, Brunei Darussalam
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PUSAT EHSAN EXPANDS L
ocal charity centre Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah AlHajjah Maryam has been caring for and educating people with special needs in the country for over 17 years. Throughout the years, Pusat Ehsan not only provided rehabilitation and intervention services but it also became a centre for people with special needs to improve their social skills and develop selfesteem through achievement, encouragement and recognition. The demand for their services
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grew over the years and the centre needed a larger place with better facilities to cope with the increasing number of students. With the help of donations from private individuals and material sponsorship from various corporations, the centre completed the first phase of the redevelopment project – the Rehabilitation Block. The grand opening of the block on July 13 was officiated by YTM Paduka Seri Duli Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Mateen ibni Kebawah Duli
Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, who was accompanied by YTM Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Puteri Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah Binti Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah. The new building provides therapy rooms for various rehabilitation needs for all ages, a hydrotherapy pool, an indoor
playground, simulation rooms for vocational training in cooking and hospitality fields, classrooms, treatment rooms, a therapy garden and a gymnasium. With these new facilities, the centre continues to help individuals with disabilities with the assistance of a group of dedicated staff, selected not only for their skills but also for their caring nature as well, and volunteers who donate their time to help out at the centre.
HM Yazid, MOFAT
biG buzz
T
o celebrate the 50th anniversary of the formation of ASEAN and commemorate the moment when Brunei signed the ASEAN Declaration 50 years ago in 1967, Brunei launched the ASEAN@50 Exhibition on August 12–13. The two-day event held at the International Convention Centre in Berakas saw embassies and high commissions of ASEAN states and ASEAN dialogue partners in Brunei setting up booths to display products from their countries, as well as provide current and historical
A BRUNEIAN IN CANNES Abdul Zainidi has a penchant for the strange. So much so that he writes weirdly fascinating stories of the unexplained and
FA MO zid, a Y M H
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ASEAN TURNS 50 information on their respective relations with ASEAN. The event also featured trade and education talks, along with cultural activities such as traditional dances and flower arranging, and an ASEAN Makan Fair where food from across the ASEAN regions were presented. Booths representing ASEAN’s Three Community Pillars: the ASEAN Political Security Community (APSC), the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural
Community (ASCC) were also present during the course of the exhibition. The ASEAN@50 Exhibition is the first of its kind to be held in Brunei and was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in cooperation with the embassies and high commissions of ASEAN member states and ASEAN Dialogue Partners in Brunei, along with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism.
makes films to show people what he feels about them. Abdul submitted his short film documentary “More Vanishing Children” to the short film division of the Cannes Film Festival this year and it was accepted for screening during the festival in May. Abdul felt that he was lucky to be selected this year as it was the 70th edition of Cannes and selection was tight, making Abdul’s film the only Bruneian presence in Cannes. With his access badge, Abdul was able to not only attend the festival itself but he was also invited to
networking parties where he could promote not just his film but his country as well. Abdul’s next project is “Body/Badan”, a film about fairy tales from Brunei set in a Parisian environment. Abdul has often heard of these stories from Tutong town. Filming is currently ongoing in Paris and he aims to finish it by the end of this year. In the meantime, he is editing his third film from his Vanishing Children series and will fly the Bruneian flag again when he promotes it overseas.
Sixties’ Glam A glamorous vintage affair was held at the Eco Ponies Garden in Tutong town on August 20. The unique village homestay held the “Glam Kampung Galore” event on their grounds, which had visitors dressing up in kebaya and kain pelikat, much like the starlets in the 1960’s golden era of Malay cinema. The event was a wonderfully rustic affair with stalls selling local delicacies and products. These booths were named after famous characters from the sixties such as Bidasari Cempaka Biru, Siti Payung, Laila Satri, Pak Pandir Moden, Mambang Moden, Che Mamat and Jula Juli Bintang 7. During the event, black and white Malay movies played on a screen for visitors to enjoy while resting on the grass. Traditional games such as tug-of-war and terompah race added more fun to the festivities. Eco Ponies Garden is a village homestay located in Lamunin (Tutong) with a double-storey cottage on two acres of land surrounded by tree houses made from recycled materials. The area also has jungle trails and a community garden with over 20 varieties of traditional herbs. With the theme ‘Garden Grow, Community Growth’, Eco Ponies is on its way to becoming the number one eco-tourism destination in Brunei and continues in its efforts to showcase village products and local organic herbs.
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Courtesy of Jerudong Park
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Fireworks in celebration of His Majesty's 71st Birthday seen in the background of Jerudong Park's new Adventure Kingdom.
Attractions of Fun W
ater rides, futuristic simulators and an outdoor activity area usher in a new era for Brunei’s premier tourist destination. Following the success of Jerudong Park’s (JP) relaunch in 2014, the expansion marks an important step in the ongoing revitalization of the park. With the opening of the new area in July dubbed Phase 2, the total number of attractions and rides increases to 30, making it one of the largest amusement destinations in Borneo. When you enter the new area, you can start your adventure on the 50-meter Scary Drop one of the tallest freestanding
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structures in Brunei. The ride offers visitors a short spectacular view of Jerudong before being ‘plunged’ to the bottom in a terrifying yet thrilling drop, inches from the ground. Then take a stroll along the newly renovated bridge archway to see Telekombat - a ride for the whole family that rises, lowers and spins around at your command. Located nearby is “4D in Motion”, packed with three simulators. Valkyrie, an interactive shooting 4D motion simulator, is the first simulator of its kind in Brunei, and more than 12 exciting 3D adventures await you with 3D, wind, snow and motion effects.
A short distance away from the simulators is the Plunge Lagoon. Riders go through two descents where the second one ends in a huge splash! If you’re looking for more thrills, there’s the Ice World Arctic Rapids which will send you spinning and promises a soaking time. If you are not able to take a boat to Ulu Temburong, experience the adventure from a 16-metre tower at Adventure Kingdom. You can climb up the 10 metre wall or take a parachute jump down to the bottom. Besides that, the tower has the only roller-glider on Borneo, a mixture of hang gliding
and zip-lining which reaches speeds of up to 50 km/h. Stretching across the park is an over 220 meters long zip-line. If you are brave, you can try the only giant swing in Brunei, which raises you over 14 meters in the air and drops you down, or get on the Pirate Ship and swing to new heights. The collection of new attractions at Jerudong Park is a fantastic update to the much beloved park and a welcome addition for thrill-seekers. Full entrance ticket prices remain the same and that includes access to the all rides, Water Park, Jerudong Park Musical Fountain, Mini-golf, JP Town and more! For more information and updates on the playground, check out their Instagram @jerudongpark or visit their website www.jerudongpark.com.
BiG getaway
EAST BALI SOJOURN
My adventures in Bali had always been the same old routine – stay in a nice resort and the usual mix of eating and shopping. On my recent getaway to Bali, I was keen to avoid the crowds in the south side so I decided to search for a more authentic experience on the eastern side of the island. Home to the sacred mountain of Mount Agung, beautiful countryside, traditional villages and relaxed coastal towns; this is the Bali of years gone by. My resort of choice was Amankila, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. And with a yearlong calendar of special events and cultural experiences to mark this milestone, it is definitely the time to visit Amankila! Wan Zainal Abidin
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mankila, which means peaceful hill, is perched above the Lombok Strait, on the slopes of Mount Agung, near the village of Manggis in East Bali’s Karangasem Regency. Amankila offers the perfect launching pad to discover east Bali and all that it has to offer: soft powdery black sand beaches, dive sites of
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spectacular underwater havens, lush greenery and infinitely tall palm trees. Individual stilted pavilions with alang-alang roof thatching, reflecting the graceful architecture and culture of Bali, are enveloped by regal coconut palms. The pavilions surround a spectacular infinity pool that cascades down the hillside in three tiers, reminiscent of a rice
paddy field. This forms the heart of the resort, and this is where on countless evenings, I watched the sun set with my pre-prandial drinks overlooking the swathe of stone steps leading down the iconic tiered pool. The resort’s setting and location is indeed unrivalled in Bali. Amankila’s 33 suites, nine of which has its own pool – enjoy
complete privacy with ocean or garden views. All suites feature canopied king-sized beds, a living area, a large bathroom with a soaking tub and outdoor terraces. Spacious, tactile and modern yet respectful of local Balinese elements, the suites are decorated with inlaid pearl and coconut-shell furniture and other local materials that blend
harmoniously with the natural environment. I stayed in the Garden Suite that is nestled in the hillside some three stories above the tiered pool with stretching views of the Indian Ocean. Throughout the interior, timber is the keynote material, all done to celebrate the rich Balinese heritage and despite being 25 years old, I must say
that the timber finishes are well maintained and look almost brand new. Just outside my room is an open-air terrace that I enjoyed lounging on. In fact, I even had my breakfasts served there on most mornings. On most days, I take light lunches at The Terrace by the main pool while soaking in the ocean views, and on others, I dine at The Beach Club restaurant located at the coconut grove. This informal restaurant is open only for lunch and serves amazing fish tacos, but the star-dining venue has got to be the Dining Room in the main resort pavilion where Chef Shane holds reign. On my final night, I had the most delicious porcini ravioli and grilled baby chicken - a feast made in the heavenly kitchens. And as desserts go, the lovely traditional pisang goreng Bali and cheese selection will take some beating. Aquatic diversions over and under water are plenty including snorkeling and diving. Beyond these water adventures, there
is always the option of retiring to the sanctuary of the Spa Pavilion which offers a rich tapestry of spa programmes that reflect the cultural healing traditions of the Balinese people. I spent my last afternoon at the resort getting oiled up and rubbed down at the spa, almost forgetting that my eastern Bali sojourn was quickly coming to an end. At the end of my stay, I was very impressed with Amankila. Its charming service staff, excellent cuisine, exceptional diversions and best of all, its easy connection to my home base, Bandar Seri Begawan. The next time I want to do nothing, escape my mindboggling schedule, Amankila makes it an easy choice.
AMANKILA Jl. Raya Manggis, Manggis, Karangasem, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80871, Indonesia T: 62 363 41333
While most people think that Aman resorts are for starry-eyed honeymooners only, there is plenty to do for the family. Here is a list of things to note for those with children in tow: 1 Being a family friendly resort, qualified and experienced childcare and babysitting services are available upon request. 2 From mini football to croquet and pool toys to kid’s fishing rods, different types of beach toys are available at the Amankila Beach Club to keep your little ones busy. Complimentary water sport activities including Hobie Cat, Stand up paddleboard, boogie boards and kayaks are available from the beach club too. 3 During high season and major holidays, a supervised kids afternoon picnic with personalized invitation is held daily at the beach club. 4 Enroll your child in a Balinese dancing class, where they will be dressed in traditional costumes for the perfect photo memento. 5 In Bali, little girls are taught at a young age to make Balinese offerings called Canang. Little guests at Amankila can join the local girls to learn make these offerings. 6 For kids aged 6-12, there is the opportunity to enjoy the aquatic adventures of East Bali by joining the surfing classes conducted in association with East Bali Surf and Sail. 7 See the wonders of Ujung, the water palace built by the last Raja of Karangasem in a different light by signing up for a cycling expedition for the family and get ready for the most memorable ride of your life. Pedal alongside a seasoned guide as you take in the stunning historical sites and glimpses of the locals’ homes. 8 Pamper the little ones with Spa for the Young treatments that include Little Princess and Prince manicure and pedicure and mini facials using organic Aman products for the not so little ones. 9 Get the hotel to pack you a picnic lunch and take the entire family to Bali Safari and Marine Park. Home to more than 50 animal species, the park combines a Balinese cultural ambience with an African savannah experience – definitely a great activity for guests of all ages! Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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biG advertorial feature
and enjoy Stay 3 nights for free. the 3rd night 280nett M R at Room rate from t per room nigh ber em ec D now till 31 ily da of e 2017. Inclusiv persons o tw r breakfast fo cess. and Wi-Fi ac
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here comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality and courteous service is second to none. This is Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur, the trendy and stylishly chic hotel located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Cosmo Hotel Kuala Lumpur features 347 spaciously designed and furnished guestrooms and suites complemented by a range of facilities making it ideal for both business and leisure travellers alike. The hotel is surrounded by various banking institutions, some of the city’s old-world charm attractions such as Dataran Merdeka, Petaling Street (Chinatown),
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Masjid India (Little India) and is easily accessible via the city’s transportation system with the LRT station just a stone’s throw away ensuring a smooth journey to KL Sentral for a seamless journey onwards to the airport via the KLIA Express. The hotel offers five different room categories: from the Cosmo Room, Deluxe, Executive, Studio Suite to Junior Suite with room size varying from 180 sqm to 265 sqm. All the rooms are comfortably furnished with a full range of amenities and maximum utilisation of space to cater to the expectation of today’s travellers. To ensure guests stay connected
seamlessly, the hotel and all its facilities are WiFi enabled. Paralleled to the Lobby is the Cosmo Lounge, an ideal place for guests to relax and catch up on the day’s activities or to conduct an informal business discussion. Other facilities available for both
leisure and business travellers include the Café Mint, an all-day dining restaurant (now open for breakfast) with two private rooms for guests wishing to organise private dinners or celebratory moments. Café Mint offers buffet lunch and dinner alongside an elective menu of fine international and local options. Catering to meeting planners and business needs, the hotel offers a boardroom, a business centre and a choice of five meeting rooms ranging from 54 m² to 114 m² with capacity ranging up to 110 people for theatre seating. All the function facilities are well equipped with a range of meeting paraphernalia including remote roll down screens. For fitness buffs, a soon-to-open gymnasium will ensure guests keep to their work-out regime throughout the stay.
COSMO HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR 13-15 Leboh Ampang, 50050 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603 2030 1888 Fax: 603 2030 1988 Email : info@cosmohotelkl.com Reservations email : reservation@cosmohotelkl.com FB: @cosmohotelkl IG: @cosmokl
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BiG
drive
Thirty Years And Counting Jati Transport celebrated its 30th anniversary of their appointment as the Mercedes-Benz General Distributor in Brunei on August 18 with the official opening of the new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus in Beribi. The Mercedes-Benz Autohaus is a 28,000 square feet sun-lit facility with a tremendous display area that can showcase 13 vehicles and house a team of sales and after-sales professionals. Built to the tune of $5 million, the new facility incorporates the latest Mercedes-Benz concept by Daimler AG, Germany, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and a luxurious customer lounge with LED television, WiFi, a Mercedes-Benz merchandise shop and complimentary refreshments for customers. The state-of-the-art workshop features 15 service bays equipped with worldleading diagnostic and repair equipment and a warehouse for spare parts. The celebration included a presentation of donations of $5000 each to six local charities: the Dana Pengiran Muda Mahkota Al-Muhtadee Billah Fund for Orphans, the Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam, Tabung Orangorang Cacat, Persatuan Kanak-kanak Cacat (KACA), Tabung Anak-anak Yatim Daerah Brunei dan Muara, and SMARTER Brunei.
Making Heads Turn Jetta-bout Town If you’re looking for a car to comfortably seat your family of five, the sporty Volkswagen Jetta Sportline sedan might just be the ticket to a cool ride. The Jetta is mid-sized but it is big on space and safety features. It has six airbags including curtain airbags. This mighty little sedan has a 122hp 1.4TSI engine and a 7-speed DSG transmission so it can get from 0-100 in 9.8 seconds, not that you should if you have your little family riding along with you but you know the power is in there waiting to pounce when you need it. To add to its sporty body is the 17inch alloy wheels and sports suspension. The Jetta is equipped with an RNS 510 navigation system with a 6.5-inch high resolution touch screen display so getting lost is not an issue.
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The BMW Group is presenting its exciting new take on a BMW Roadster, the BMW Concept Z4 in a design study that looks ahead to the series-production version of the car set to be unveiled over the course of next year. Senior Vice President of BMW Group Design, Adrian can Hooydonk said, “The BMW Concept Z4 expresses the new BMW design language from all perspectives and in all details. From the dynamic-looking front to the striking flanks to the clean-cut tail end; a few lines and the subtle play between surfaces are enough to generate a sense of power and emotion.” The Concept Z4 adopts classical roadster design cues, such as a long wheelbase, a low-slung, stretched silhouette and a compact rear end, wraps them in a fresh confident and contemporary package. A shorter bonnet and crisp overhangs ensure the driver sits closer to the centre of the car than in previous BMW Roadsters.
made in borneo
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The Dawn of A New Discovery The All-New Discovery from Range Rover was launched on the sands of Jerudong on August 12. Indera Motors Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Land Rover in Brunei Darussalam held a launch ceremony for the fifth generation Discovery at the Tarindak D’Pantai Café at the Jerudong Polo and Country Club, officiated by His Excellency Richard Lindsay, the British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam.
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Two exciting variants are added to the Brunei fleet: the All-New Discovery HSE and the All-New Discovery SE 340PS with a 3.0 litre V6 petrol engine. Guests were invited to take the seven-seater SUV for a spin on the sandy beaches of Jerudong and test the vehicle’s capabilities by driving through custom-made obstacles and wading through water of 900mm deep, all with ease and comfort and a sense of adventure.
Guests were also shown the towing prowess of the Discovery with the help of a jet ski. The maximum weight at which the All-New Discovery can tow is at 3,500kg, the hook-on and hookrelease processes are simply done through a touchscreen at the front of the console. The All-New Discovery is powered by Jaguar Land Rover‘s efficient range of four and six cylinder petrol and diesel engines, all paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox engineered to deliver smooth shifts with sharp responses and optimized fuel efficiency. The new addition of Discovery retains its status as the most capable premium SUV in
off-road situations, combining advanced technologies with outstanding off-road geometry. Its suspension is designed to optimize on-road dynamics yet its outstanding geometry gives drivers even greater confidence and capability when negotiating arduous and undulating surfaces. Land Rover’s designers and engineers have used every spare millimetre of space to provide additional stowage throughout the interior, in particular for the front passengers. The thoughtful touches in increased stowage extend to the climate control panel on the central console that hides a secret smallitem storage. The new Discovery provides more space than any of its direct rivals with a total load volume of 1,231 litres behind the second-row seats, big enough to fit a standard sized washing machine in the boot. The All-New Discovery utilizes a state-of-the-art Activity Key wristband which allows drivers to enjoy sports and active hobbies without carrying the standard key fob which they can safely leave inside the vehicle. With six 12V sockets and seven USB charging points across all three rows of seats, several smartphones and tablets can be powered simultaneously. The AllNew Discovery will be hands down the SUV choice for highly connected families of this generation.
Eat, Drink Brunei
All restaurants in Brunei are closed for prayers between noon and 2pm on Fridays.
Yellow Cab Pizza Company B6, Grd Flr, Spg 88, Shakirin Complex, Kiulap FB: @YellowCabPizzaBN IG: yellowcabpizzabn Open daily: 10am-10pm
COCO CAFÉ
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f you like your pizza crispy and slightly charred at the bottom while dense and chewy in the middle, and the surface loaded from edge to edge with ingredients, then hail the Yellow
No. 1, Blk E, Semporna Complex, Kg Batu Bersurat Tel: 2424566 IG: @cococafebn Open: Mon-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri 5pm-11pm
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oco Café had a soft opening menu when our lot popped in for a meal in late August and it comprised a diverse range of cuisines - Korean, Western, Japanese, Caribbean, Italian, and each offered only a handful of dishes. It may seem like a trip round-the-world but perhaps the intention is to figure out the dishes and flavours that will most appeal to their clientele and work from there. If you love English food, they have a trio of Grandma Ruby’s English Classics – Roast leg of lamb, English cottage pie and the good old classic meatloaf. If you’re intrigued by Caribbean style cuisine, they have two for you 38
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to try, Caribbean rice with chicken potato curry and a Cuban baked salmon with tomato salsa. Meat lovers will be thrilled as they have Angus steaks in different cuts. We homed in on a fascinating category called Namaste, which had a sweetish spicy butter chicken dish with rice (or bread) and a light refreshing kachumber salad. We loved the pretty cakes that tasted as good as they looked and we heard that they tend to run out rather early in the day. With a menu as fascinating Coco Café’s, we can’t wait to return and try the rest.
Cab Pizza Company in Kiulap as they’re now serving New York-style pizzas the way you like it. Their signature pizza Dear Darla is best enjoyed rolled up like a spring roll trapping wholesome fresh arugula and alfafa within to give a refreshing crunch with every bite. Their dough is made fresh every morning and arugula is sourced locally from farm to table. If you can’t decide what toppings to have, then take on the New York’s Finest that is covered with a generous amount of everything a pizza should have. They have a small selection of pastas and finger food that are lip-smacking good, we recommend the garlic parmesan wings and twice baked potato halves. We hear that they will add home delivery service within a 5km radius soon and there are plans to up the number of outlets around Brunei and Borneo over the next five years, so look out for a Yellow Cab near you.
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8 Bytes Café No. 2, Blk D 1st Flr, Tanjung Bunut Place, Kg Tanjung Bunut FB: 8 Bytes Café Brunei IG: @8bytescafe Open: Mon-Thu 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 2pm-10pm Sun 10am-10pm
hat happens when you combine food, drinks, desserts, board games, clothes, and retro gaming? You get 8 Bytes Café – a hip little café that serves you some great food, pretty desserts and delicious beverages, and there’s also a rack of clothes by Rose + Armor (@roseandarmor) for sale here. But this is also a place to revel in retro gaming nostalgia, when consoles, cartridges and 8-bit graphics were all the rage, before our lives were taken over by temperamental birds and RPG games. Brush up on your Street Fighter skills while sipping on a pretty fantastic Unicorn Milkshake. And if that’s not your jam, there are some board games available too.
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Radisson Sunday Bliss What’s your typical Sunday like? If you have the luxury of waking up mid-morning, hang out with family and friends and indulge in a hearty meal, then that is a truly blissful day. Whether you like your Sunday easy and relaxing or fun and vibrant, Radisson Hotel’s Family Sunday Brunch lets you do both at their all-day dining restaurant, Tasek Brasserie.
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adisson’s Family Sunday Brunch combines a hearty buffet spread with a splash in the pool in a perfectly indulgent setting. Sit beside the pool for fresh air and sunshine or if you are not swimming to work up an appetite, park yourself indoors and let the wave of toe-tapping music do the job.
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The buffet is a palette of delicious colours and flavours with something for everyone, whether you’re a vegetarian or the complete opposite, or prefer Western or Asian cuisine. At Radisson, presentation of food is as important as the quality. Hot food is served gently warmed in cast-iron pots while free-standing
counters hold light salads and appetizers. Pull out the glass drawers and you will find more varieties of salads that you shouldn’t miss. Near the pool, there are cooking stations with friendly chefs ready to whip up pasta dishes and burritos, and at the BBQ pit, cutlets of meat and sausages sizzle to perfection, waiting for you to enjoy. No child will be able to resist the sweet counter with a bubbling chocolate fountain and mini buckets of candy and marshmallows. To tempt the sweet palate further, the dessert corner is filled with an assortment of exquisite cakes and puddings that Radisson is famous for. And if you haven’t had teppanyaki ice cream before, pick a couple of
flavours and watch the chef chop, cut, mix and roll your ice cream into a blended delight, made more delectable with a host of toppings. The Family Sunday Brunch at Tasek Brasserie is served from noon to 3pm, so there’s no need to rush, no need to hurry, just find a relaxing spot and savour the day.
The Family Sunday Brunch is available every Sunday from noon – 3pm. Price: Adult$30net, Child-$15net. For reservations, call 2244272 ext 8872
biG appetite
Eat, Drink Sarawak
The Café BBQ
Tusan Icecream Permyjaya The coconut ice cream trend has well and truly landed on the shores of Borneo, and what’s not to like? This light fluffy ice cream comes in three scoops served in a halved coconut shell, complemented with strips of sweet coconut flesh and three toppings of your choice. One of the first and most popular purveyors of coconut ice cream is Tusan Icecream, but although they’re mostly known for their coconut ice cream, they also have coconut pudding, green tea and mango ice cream. Whatever your poison, it’s not surprising to see the small but airy outlet full of people on any given day getting their coconut ice cream fix, and after having a taste of it, it’s not hard to see why! This will be a regular stop for us from now on. Lot 5585 Permyjaya Miri, Miri Tel: 6019-4536303 FB: Tusan Coconut Icecream IG: @tusan_icecream2016 Open: 11am-9pm (closed Wed)
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If you’re new to The Café BBQ, here’s the rub: it’s not a barbecue in a café. The Café BBQ is the number one chicken restaurant franchise in Korea and BBQ stands for ‘Best of the Best Quality’. Located in Permaisuri Imperial City Mall
in Miri, the restaurant has a menu that features a diverse range of Korean food and a few Western and Korean fusions. Korean favourites like Tuna Jumokbap and Kimchi Chicken Dol-Sod Bap come hand in hand with interesting dishes like the Bulgogi Beef Pastry Pizza. Their famed Korean fried chicken delivers in spades: all chicken prepared here are
The Vintage Tea House Thanis Lim Stepping into The Vintage Tea House feels like stepping into one of those heritage houses in Penang. It is filled with vintage teapots and packets of tea. Owner Alan Tan serves as the tea master, educating his customers on the different types of quality teas, some of which are difficult to get elsewhere in
Borneo. The Vintage Tea House specialises in tea-infused cuisine. Alan’s wife runs the kitchen and her signature dish - deep-fried pork with butter sauce infused with tea - is a good marriage of caramelized butter and earthy tea leaves. We enjoyed this with their special tea leaf fried rice and their healthier tea version of the
never frozen and cooked in 100% olive oil, and the result is wellseasoned crispy fried chicken with a satisfying crunch. Lot ICM7, ICM7A & ICM7B, Ground Floor, Permaisuri Imperial City Mall, Miri Tel: 6085-431515 FB: BBQ Chicken Malaysia (Miri, Sarawak) Open daily: 10am-10pm
popular Malaysian herbal pork ribs soup, bah kut teh. There are all kinds of tea here including a rare 30-year old PuEr, and if the boss is not too busy, he might tell you his life story and the benefits of aged Pu-Er. The service is friendly and personal and they make you feel like you are in a neighbour’s home. Prices are very affordable, although the 30-year old Pu-Er tea might be slightly expensive, it is still worth a try. The Vintage Tea House Sub Lot 2354, Jalan Datuk Edward Jeli Jalan Piasau, 98000, Miri Tel: 6085-491788 FB: The Vintage Tea House Open: Tue-Sun 11.30am9.30pm
biG appetite
Eat, Drink Sabah Pamela Fletcher
SOULed OUT PANDO Café and living is a still an untested concept in Kota Kinabalu but for Saw Lip Chiang it was an opportunity to marry his passion for both food and furniture. Pando is a showroom of custom-made furniture where customers can grab a magazine off a shelf, settle into a comfy chair or sit at a table for a drink and bite to eat. While wood and metal feature heavily in the furniture designs, healthy food and drinks are at the heart of its menu. Aromatic grilled meats, fresh salads, sandwiches and oat bowls are complemented by a choice of coffees, teas, juices, and papaya, pumpkin or sweet potato infused lattes - a specialty of Pando. Furniture shopping can’t get any more fun or delicious than this. Lot 2, Grd Floor, Latitude 6, Jalan Lintas Bypass , 88450 Kota Kinabalu Tel: 088-395 618 FB: @pandocafekk IG: @pandocafekk Open daily: 11am – 11pm, Fri & Sat 9am – noon; Sun 9am – 11pm)
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This is the fourth outlet of the hugely popular SOULed OUT restaurant chain in Malaysia and its location at Imago Shopping Mall by the city’s waterfront only adds to the restaurant’s reputation for offering diners a fantastic casual dining experience. A comfortable ambience envelops
both its interior and sizeable outdoor al fresco areas that are perfect for family and fun friendly gatherings. The restaurant serves up a variety of cuisines from its four kitchens – Western, local, pizza and Northern Indian – with sirloin steak, fried beef noodles, sizzling lamb cutlets and Sake San Pizza being top picks from each kitchen. Its mojitos are rated as best in Kota Kinabalu and what better way to enjoy
G-101, Imago Shopping Mall, KK Times Square Phase 2, 88100 Kota Kinabalu Tel: 016-829 9268, 088-275 988 FB: @souledoutkk W: kk.souledout.com.my Open daily: Noon – 1am
nuts for an eye-catching dessert that looks almost too good to eat. Other sweet treats include cheese tarts, scones and cakes with a selection of premium Columbian coffee, cold pressed juices and fruit smoothies. A small menu of sandwiches, pasta and Japanese croquette is available if you want more than just dessert.
Shulamite Shulamite gives your ordinary waffle a touch of glam with its unique ‘blossom’ design that looks good, and tastes even better. Its signature Belgian waffles that are crispy on the
them than with a warm sunset in the evening as you party on through the night. Serves no pork but beverage list includes alcohol.
outside and soft and chewy on the inside, are covered with your choice of sauce that includes salted caramel, chocolate and blueberry, and topped with a generous sprinkle of fruit and
J-0-1, Blk J, Metrotown, 88300 Kota Kinabalu Tel: 088-383 197 FB: @Shulamitekk IG: @Shulamite_kk Open: Mon-Sat 9am – 11pm; Sun 10m – 6pm (closes one day a month)
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Going loco for coconut ice-cream Unless you’ve been living in an ice-cream-free hole (the horror!) for the past year, everyone knows that coconut ice-cream is trending. And with good reason – this lightflavoured ice-cream is addictive, and can be found sold in night markets, pop-up markets, restaurants, homes, cafés and even corporate events! We round up some coconut icecream vendors around Borneo for you to check out. It was a delicious task, and you may thank us later. Brunei Balls & Shakes Spg 210, Jln Pasir Berakas, BSB (Same building as London Kebab) Tel: 673-7189328 IG: @coconutbsb FB: Coconut Balls&Shakes Santan™ Coconut Ice Cream Booth C28, Gadong Night Market, BSB Tel: 673-7238383 IG: @santanicecream FB: Santan Coconut Ice Cream
The Cube Pitstop Café #2 Grd Flr Britannia House, Jln Cator, BSB Tel: 673-2238878 IG: @cubepitstopcafe FB: The Cube Pitstop Café Sococo Coconut Shake C7 Mini Mart #116 Bgn Kumbang Pasang Gadong Properties, Jln Gadong, BSB Tel: 673-2453633 IG: @sococo.coconutshake FB: Sococo Coconut Shake
Cocofina’s Coconut Ice Cream #152 Kg Panchor Papan, Tutong Tel: 673-8828281 / 8666681 IG: @cocofinas FB: Cocofina’s Coconut Ice Cream Ma Phrao Awn Lot 3422, #13A, Jln Dipa Negara, Mumong, Kuala Belait Tel: 673-8856516 IG: @maphraoawn FB: Ma Phrao Awn Ice Cream De Sha’s Ice Cream Kg Mumong, Kuala Belait Tel: 6010-5974074 IG: @deshasicecream FB: De Sha’s Ice Cream SARAWAK Coco Loco Nuttylicious Miri Lot 2081 Marina Square 1, Parkcity Miri, Miri, Sarawak Tel: 6010-9616265 FB: Coco Loco Nuttylicious
Tusan Icecream Permyjaya Lot 5585 Permyjaya Miri, Miri, Sarawak Tel: 6019-4536303 IG: @tusan_icecream2016 FB: Tusan Coconut Icecream Aroi-Dee Thai Coconut Ice Cream Lot 1039 Jln Dato Edwan Jeli, Piasau, Miri, Sarawak Tel: 6016-8700908 FB: Aroi-Dee Thai Coconut Ice Cream, Kenyalang Cocopuri Grd Flr Lot 14139 (SL.6) Blk 1 Metrocity, Jln Matang, Kuching, Sarawak IG: @cocopuridesserts FB: COCOPURI SABAH Tempurung Ice Cream Kota Kinabalu 83a Jln Gaya (behind the Jesselton Hotel), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah IG: @tempurungicecream FB: Tempurung Ice Cream VEDABLU Gaya Street (beside Pizza Hut), Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tel: 6088-384700 FB: Vedablu The Royal Coconut 44 Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tel: 6088-210558 IG: @the_royal_coconut FB: The Royal Coconut INCH Coffee 1B Perdana Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tel: 6016-6393807 IG: @inchcoffee FB: INCH Coffee
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biG listings
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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! Amulya This North Indian restaurant serves our favourite briyani in town. Grd Flr Jln Setia Square Berakas, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 9230) Chop Jing Chew Freshly made Roti Kahwin perfectly paired with a teh tarik 10 Spg 5 Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 242 4132)
Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant Arabic cuisine at its finest #1A&1B Heng Thai Property Centre Spg 22 Jln Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 245 0009) – call for other branches
Kaizen Sushi served fresh on your table plus a variety of other Japanese cuisine Yayasan Complex Waterfront Side, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 222 6336) – call for other branches
Restoran Makan & Soto Rosmini Our favourite soto hang-out 1 Spg 15, Jln Gadong (673 871 9946)
Pondok Sari Wangi Restaurant Serving the best of Indonesian cuisine 12-13 1st Flr Blk A Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 244 5043) – call for other branches
Mei Kong Coffee Shop A trip to Brunei isn’t complete without sampling their famous kolo mee 108 Jln Pemancha, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 224 0688)
Thien Thien Restaurant Purveyors of arguably the best Nasi Ayam in town 10 Grd Flr Mas Panchawarna Complex (673 222 2435) – call for other branches
Ximply Chriz Café Divine desserts, great coffee and scrumptious meals 8 Blk B Regent Square, Kiulap (673 223 4918) Taste of Asia Vietnamese pho, Thai tom yam, Japanese sushi, Korean kimchi and Bruneian ambuyat – this list covers most of our favourite Asian delights. Ahan Thai 10 Blk B Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 245 2852) All Seasons Restaurant 17 1st Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 8068) Aminah Arif 2 & 3 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 223 6198) – Call for other branches Aneka Rasa Blk A #17 & 16 Grd & 1st Flr Bgn Begawan Pehin Dato Hj Mohd Yussof, Kg Kiulap (673 223 1728)
Quick Bites Add udang galah or tiger prawns to a beehoon laksa and it will instantly raise the status of this local favourite. At Quick Bites, this laksa is made in a food truck parked on the side of a corner house on Simpang 396 in Jerudong. Order your food and sit around the truck but worry not, the area is sheltered and large fans run continuously to cool you from the spice and heat from your kari laksa, (sweat profusely you will but it is all worth it we say.) They also have rice dishes like nasi ayam penyet, nasi lemak, nasi biryani, keropok lekor, cucur udang or pisang, and the surprise item on the menu - churros served with chocolate or cinnamon sugar dipping. No. 1, Spg 396-93167, Jalan Mejawa, Kg Jerudong, Jerudong BG3122 (Call ahead to check if the large prawns are available: Abdul Rahman Sirat 8776372/ 7136020)
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GALLERY Casbah London Kebab
Pick lamb, chicken, beef or fish and have it dressed and wrapped your way – tikka, kebab, doner or shawarma style! A quick and deliciously meaty meal for hungry diners on the go. OPEN DAILY ; #G2a Grd Flr Times Square Complex, KG JAYA SETIA (673 234 3001) (Times Square Branch) or #204 Spg 210 Kg Lambak, JLN BERAKAS (673 880 3183) – Call for other branches Deals
This modern, refreshing and contemporary restaurant offers set menu for dinner for a gastronomic experience. OPEN 7pm onwards (Mon-Sat), closed on Sundays and public holidays; Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 224 4272) Ideal Café and Grill
Homegrown fast-food brand Ideal Café & Grill has been serving Brunei its signature grilled rotisserie chicken since 1996, when it first started off selling its homemade grilled chicken in a modest stall. The restaurant chain remains strong as ever today, serving customers their farmfresh, freshly grilled rotisserie chicken in restaurants in five different locations, and remains a local favourite. OPEN DAILY 9am-10pm; Goodwood Building Kg Menglait, GADONG (673 245 5595) – Call for other branches Swensen’s
This San Francisco franchise first opened its doors to Brunei in 1996, and they remain our favourite purveyor of healthy meals and sweet desserts to this day. Located at The Mall, Gadong and Sengkurong, Swensen’s serves a wide selection of
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Bake 250C New in the Kiulap food scene is Bake 250C, which ticks all the boxes when it comes to hipster café design – bare bulbs, quotes on the wall, minimal design, wooden tables, dapperly dressed waiters and waitresses. Food-wise, it has a few decent choices of pastries and cakes, but while its name might make you think differently, this is not so much a bakery as a proper café. There are some good options of coffee and other beverages, and the rest of the menu offers plentiful choices with All Day Breakfast, sandwiches, salads, burgers, pasta, western, pizzas, wings, snacks, rice, omurice and a few dessert options. The restaurant only just opened in August so only time will tell if it can keep up with its surrounding competitors, but we like what we see so far.
hearty food, desserts, beverages, ice cream cakes and takeaway novelties, not to mention their famous ice-cream sundaes. OPEN DAILY 10.30am-10.30pm; 1st Flr, The Mall, GADONG (673 245 1864) Tasek Brasserie
A perfect spot to dine with family and friends in the heart of the city, Tasek Brasserie provides casual dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Customers can enjoy light snacks and a cool mocktail while lounging at the outdoor pool, or dine on the variety of cuisine from their ala carte menu or sumptuous buffets.
#13 Grd Flr Blk A Q-Lap Complex, Kiulap IG: @bake250c
OPEN DAILY 6am-6pm; Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 224 4272) The Colony Tearoom
Anjung Layar Luncur (Nur Wanita Serasa Branch) Simpang 287, Pantai Serasa (673 277 1879) Ar Ruhma Restaurant 329 Blk D Bgn Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 242 7847) Axtivo Restaurant Spg 13 Hj Uthman Complex, Berakas (673 233 5642) Babu’s Kitchen C44 Blk C Grd Flr Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 245 7868) Bali Pit-Stop 15 &16, Spg 150 Grd Floor, Block A Bangunan Habza, Kuilap (673 720 9992) Chatterbox Kopitiam 2 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbullah 2, Gadong (673 820 1212)
G S Seafood Restaurant Sri Aman Complex, Tutong (673 422 1882) Golden Leaf Coffee House Blk 1 Grd Flr PAP Hjh Norain Building, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 222 0422) Gratitude Café Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 234 1123) Impian Rasa Restaurant #5 Bgn Pg Hjh Rafiah Spg 607 Jln Jangsak, Gadong (673 265 3858) – Call for other branches Kaka Restaurant 2 & 3 Spg 100 Jln Jerudong (673 267 2333) – Call for other branches La Mee #1B & 1c Grd Flr Spg 41-112, Jln Kiarong (673 243 0113)
Lee Loi Fatt Blk A #7 Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 234 2384) – Call for other branches
PappaRich Blk G Grd Flr Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 243 2333)
Mangrove Paradise Resort Spg 912 Kg Sungai Belukut, Jln Kota Batu (278 6868)
Pho Hoa Restaurant #6 Grd Flr Blk B Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kg Kiulap (673 223 6218)
MY Favoureat estaurant 9 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 9410)
Pho Real 1st Flr Times Square Food Court, Kg Jaya Setia
MyTown Eating House Grd Flr The Crown Princess Complex, Jalan Tutong (673 224 1880)
Rice Bowl 72 T.C.Y Building, Batu Bersurat (673 863 0665)
Nyonya 3 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbollah, Gadong (673 244 7090)
Sapphira Cake House 3 Grd Flr Seri Anigma, Kiulap (673 223 2021)
Old Time Kopitiam G2 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Ibrahim, Kg Menglait (673 244 8282)
Seasons Restaurant Lvl 2 The Centrepoint, Gadong (673 242 2291)
A cozy European-style tearoom located at the Rizqun Wing of The Mall, Gadong, The Colony Tearoom recently expanded to new premises, offering with it a wider range of Mariage Fréres gourmet tea from Paris and light snacks. They also have an ‘All Day English Style’ tea set offering a daily selection of pastries, savoury finger food and scones. OPEN DAILY 10am-10pm; #2.16B 2nd Flr The Mall, GADONG (673 245 4325) SOULed OUT
A hugely popular restaurant chain in Malaysia with a good variety of Western, local, Italian and Northern Indian cuisine. Located by the city’s waterfront, diners can catch the sunset from the al fresco dining area with their signature mojito, rated as the best in Kota Kinabalu. OPEN DAILY: Noon-1am; G-101, Imago Shopping Mall, KK Times Square Phase 2, Off Jalan Coastal Highway, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, SABAH (6016-8299268, 6088-275988)
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biG listings
BAKE CULTURE
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Taiwan-based Bake Culture opened its third outlet last July, bringing their signature premium pastries and desserts to Serusop. Crossing over from the chaos of Serusop and entering the freshbread scented world of Bake Culture is already a real treat, without the added pleasure of browsing through beautiful pastries and a huge selection of decorative cakes on display. Try the purple D’Yam Classic, or the the unique Watermelon Le Fleur, or go for broke with the Chocolate Ganache – all delicious!
GALLERY The Empire Hotel & Country Club Atrium Café
The Atrium Café is located on level 3 of the main Atrium building, nestled amidst The Empire’s signature grand marble columns and offering a spectacular view of the sea. Buffet breakfast and á la carte lunch are available from Monday to Friday, offering a variety of international and local cuisine.
Grd Flr, Spg 82, Kg Delima Satu, Serusop IG: @bakeculturebrunei FB: Bake Culture Brunei
OPEN 6.30am-10.30am (buffet breakfast) / 11.30am-3pm (à la carte lunch) / 2pm-4pm (à la carte lunch – on Fridays only) Lobby Lounge
The perfect place for casual or formal get-togethers or just to enjoy a cup of tea – the Lobby Lounge offers a selection of refreshments throughout the day and their popular traditional English High Tea in the afternoons. OPEN DAILY 8am-10pm / 2pm-6pm (Daily Afternoon Tea) Pantai Restaurant
Seafood Palace #1, 2 & 3 Blk B An-Nuha Building, Kg Tanjung Bunut (673 267 1299) Seaworld Neptune 8 Spg 791, Jerudong (673 261 2613) Sate House unit B9, Block B, Setia Kenangan II, Spg.150, Kiulap, (673 223 1017)
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Spicy Curry & Wraps from Arabic to Indian cuisine, check out these restaurants if you like a spicy kick to your meals.
CA Mohd Unit 11/12, Ground Floor, Block A,Warisan Complex, Delima Satu, Berakas A, Brunei-Muara(673 2330915)
Amsarra Shawarma & Espresso Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia (673 731 8545)
C’Fu Curry House Restaurant Spg 103 #5 & 6 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Md Salleh, Gadong (673 245 7000)
Bombay Palace estaurant #9 Grd & 1st Flr Blk B Bgn Pg Mainuddin & Anak2, Batu Bersurat (673 242 7313)
Delhi Darbar Restaurant & Catering Spg 38 Jln Jerudong (673 267 2826)
Le Taj 2-3 2nd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 223 8996) Lotus Family Restaurant 27B Grd Flr Delima Jaya Complex, Berakas (673 234 2049) Rajah’s Restaurant 3 Grd Flr Blk A Bangunan PAP Umi Kalthum, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 224 0379)
Offering semi buffet meals combined with daily specials, the elegant Pantai Restaurant offers a Daily Asian buffet dinner from 6pm to 9pm with a wide variety of tantalising options to choose from, or enjoy a midday meal with the family at their popular Weekend Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. OPEN 6.30pm-10pm (closed Thursdays) / 11am3pm (Weekend Brunch) Pool Deck
Located at the Beachfront on Level 1, enjoy the breeze from the beachside while you sip on cool
biG listings Saffron Restaurant 8 Blk C Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 223 5888)
steaks and burgers, British cottage pies – we list down the restaurants that serve the best from the west.
Sameer Restaurant & Catering G1 Grd Flr Sg Akar Sentral, Berakas (673 233 6613)
Bello Café L1/12 Seri Kiulap Mall, KIULAP (673 223 3989)
Spices Retaurant #1 Grd Flr Blk A Aman Complex, Jln Muara (673 233 0081) Sugar ‘n’ Spice Ground Floor Block B, Simpang 150-5-13-18, Bangunan Setia Kenangan II Kampong Kiulap, Brunei BE1518 The Wrap #2 Jerudong Park Food Court, Jerudong Ya Nur Restaurant #7 1st Flr Bgn Hj Tahir 2, Kg Menglait (673 871 9986) Zaika Restaurant A4 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 334 7430) Western Food Italian pizzas, American
Buccaneer Steak House 92-93 (B) 94 Grd Flr Jln McKerron, Kuala Belait (673 333 0406) Charcoal BBQ & Grill Restaurant Grd Flr Le Gallery Suites Hotel, Jln Tutong (673 222 1171) – Call for other branches Cheezbox Café External Café Ramp A The Mall, Gadong (673 242 5506) Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 223 2368) – Call for other branches De’ Olde Cottage 2 Grd Flr Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 242 6982) – Call for other branches
Magherita Pizzeria #5 Blk A Scout Complex Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 868 8884)
Deli-Bites Royal Brunei Recreation Club (Poolside Terrace) Jln Terunjing Lama, Berakas (673 877 928)
Mama Wong’s B25 Grd Flr Bgn Habza Spg 150, Kg Kiarong (673 729 0877)
Flapjack House #6 Bagn Majid Mohamad Jln Pasar Baharu, Kg Kiarong (673 245 0987)
Paddington House of Pancakes 3&4 Spg 58, Berakas (673 233 1668)
Magnum Café 18 & 19 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 239 2555) Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 223 1777) – Call for other branches Fratini’s Restaurant #1 Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 245 1200) – Call for other branches Home Kitchen by Tree-Bit Café D8 & D9 Lot 11620 Grd Flr Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 242 9366) Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 899 7333)
Pastamania #9 Grd Flr Blk H Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 245 7441) – Call for other branches
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GALLERY
Pepper Lunch Brunei C9/10 Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 225 3000) Qasehmaisara Café House #206-209 2nd Flr Plaza Athirah, Jln Kubah Makam DiRaja (673 278 9898) RMS Diner A5 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 334 7455)
SULBINGSOO KOREAN DESSERT CAFÉ Another venue for your bingsoo cravings, Sulbingsoo is ready for your Korean dessert needs. Situated in the bustling center of Kiulap, the spacious and airy interior is bare in design but full of natural lighting, which works well because the desserts here are Instagramworthy concoctions that just beg a spot on your IG feed. A good selection of bingsoo, waffles and injeolmie are available here, and many choices of beverages. And if you’re not in a dessert mood, there is a range of paninis and a brunch menu available from 7.30am to 2pm. #B7 Grd & M Flr Shakirin Complex, Kiulap Tel: 673-2234271 IG: @sulbingsoo.bn FB: Sulbingsoo Korean Dessert Café
beverages and enjoy light snacks in view of the swimming pool. OPEN DAILY 7am-9pm Spaghettini
Fine dining at its best, this restaurant offers authentic Italian and contemporary Mediterranean cuisine in divine settings, with a Daily Mediterranean à la carte dinner from 6pm to 10pm. A private room is available upon request for special occasions. OPEN DAILY 6am-6pm Zen Pavilion
Located just beyond Pantai Restaurant on Level 1, Zen Pavilion offers customers an exclusive dining experience, watching chefs prepare excellent dishes on the teppanyaki grill with flare and offering some of the most authentic Japanese cuisine. Daily à la carte dinner is available. OPEN 6pm-9pm (closed Thursdays) – advance booking is required Zest
A stylish café located at the Atrium on Level 5, enjoy a hot beverage with a selection of pastries, cakes, savoury treats, confectionary and chocolates, made fresh daily with the finest quality ingredients. OPEN DAILY 24 hours (midnight-6am for Empire Hotel residents only)
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biG listings
ALL TIME DELIGHTS You might be surprised to find a nyonya café merged into a Paddington House of Pancakes restaurant, but that’s what we’ve got here, and why not? Any restaurant can be improved with nyonya cuisine, we say! Still in its Soft Opening stage, its menu might not be padded out to full nyonya glory just yet but what they do have, they do well. There’s a 3-Step Noodle process to get just the right bowl of noodles you want, and a solid plate of Nasi Lemak. The assorted Nyonya kueh available is delicious, and paired with a cup of Teh Tarik, will make a perfect dessert to your meal – nyonya, pancakes, or otherwise. 3&4 Spg 58, Berakas Tel: 673-2331668
Rack & Brew #9 Blk H 1st & 2nd Flr Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 729 9668)
Tarindak d’Polo Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Jerudong (673 261 2500)
Rafia’s VK Café G13 Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 890 6990)
Tarindak D’Seni Brunei Arts & Handicrafts Centre, Kota Batu (673 224 0422)
Ran’s Coffee 1st Flr the Centrepoint Hotel Abdul Razak Complex Terminal 1 T1-05, Gadong (673 869 7700) The Frenz Café Grd Flr #13 Blk A Q-lap Complex, Kg Kiulap (673 279 1374)
Brunei Detox Bar Abdul Razak Complex, 31, BE3519, Bandar Seri Begawan BE3519
The Krema Coffee #D31 Lim Eng Ming Complex Blk D, Kg Kiulap (673 897 3600)
Mituo Vegetarian Restaurant Grd Flr Pg Anak Puteri Norain Complex, Batu Satu (673 222 2821)
The Library Café #6 Blk C Bangunan Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap Sweet As Sara Unit 7A, Ground Floor, Setia Kenangan II, Spg 150-17-20, Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan Divine Dining Exquisite meals in beautiful settings – perfect for special occasions Atrium Café The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888) Dynasty Restaurant Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 243 0185)
RBC Lifestyle #44Jln Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien, BSB (673 223 1466) Rovansil Restaurant #36-38 1st Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 7129) Red Canopy Café #5 Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 245 3878) Sorriso Restaurant & Pizzeria 14 Blk B Grd Flr Regent Square, Kiulap (673 223 3030) Swensen’s 2.34-2.36 2nd Flr The Mall, Gadong (673 245 1864) Wing-It #16 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 722 4999)
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Coffee & Cafes Gourmet, premium-grade, specialty coffee – this list accommodates the best of the burgeoning local coffee industry. Another Café #2 Grd Flr Blk A Bgn Hj Abd Rahman & Hjh Siti Ajar, Kiulap (673 223 3593) Baristas by Modesto Grd Flr Foor Areana Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kg Kiulap (673 720 3777/223 7771) Beanery & Co #81 A/1 Grd Flr, Jln Bunga Rambai, Kuala Belait (673 334 7772) BELLUNO Café #2 Blk C Kiarong Complex, Kg Kiarong (673 242 9010) Brew Café & Bakery #47 Grd Flr Blk C Gadong Central, Menglait (673 242 7554)
Caffé Verve #6A Spg 68, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 875 7382) Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 223 2368) – call for other branches Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 223 1777) – call for other branches Games & Lattes Café #E9 Grd Flr Blk E Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 223 5200) Gloria Jean’s Coffee G17 Citis Square, Berakas (673 233 8452) High Frequency Lifestyle Café 1st Flr Unit 5 Blk B Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 242 8262)
It’s a Grind Coffeehouse 1, Grd Floor, Bgn AlWarasah, Muara Town (673 277 2424) – call for other branches Kapra Coffee #26 Grd Flr Blk C Spg 440, Jln Muara (673 234 5656) Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 899 7333)
Go Green Healthy and vegetarian friendly options
The Horizons Seafood Restaurant Blk H Yayasan Complex Waterfront Side, Bandar Seri Begawan I-Lotus 20 Spg 12-26 Perumahan Rakyat Jati, Kg Rimba (673 242 2466) Lobby Lounge The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888) Pantai Restaurant The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888)
Pureland Vegetarian Restaurant #15 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Awg Ahmad bin Hassan & Anak-anak, Kiulap (673 223 6503) The Energy Kitchen Grd Flr Fitness Zone Kiulap (673 223 3323) Tien Hsing Vegetarian Restaurant Bangunan Hj Abdullah, Jalan Gadong, Menglait TCVH VEGETARIAN House Unit B3, Ground Floor Block B, Simpang 150-5-13-18, Bangunan Setia Kenangan II Kampong Kiulap, Brunei BE1518 Quick Eats Fast and delicious meals for those on the go Bento Brothers #B19 Blk B Bgn Habza Spg 150, Kg Kiulap (673 2236800) Nasi Katok Mama Express 3 Blk A Grd Flr Kompleks Madang, Madang (673 864 1681) Pan & Wok #28A Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia (673 234 2836) Non-Halal Options
Ner Dee Café #F11 1st Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 721 4977)
Savy’s Brasserie 204 Lvl 2 Mabohai Shopping Complex, Mabohai (673 224 0829)
Peppermint Café Lim Eng Ming Complex Blk D, Kg Kiulap Beribi (673 8221888)
Senja Restaurant 8&9 Grd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap ( 673 223 5313)
Phongmun Restaurant 2nd Flr Teck Guan Plaza Jln Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 222 9561)
Piccolo Café #11 Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 224 1558)
Spaghettini The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888)
Sui Heng Restaurant Grd Flr Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah Complex, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 8321)
Danes Café #102, Bgn Batu Bersurat, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 242 8914)
biG listings
Sabah & Sarawak
Hut Steak House & Restaurant 29 Blk E Damai Plaza, Kota Kinabalu (6088 238 558)
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.
Jothy’s Fish head Curry & Banana Leaf Blk 1 Lot G9 Api Api Centre, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 595)
Credit Cards : AE | American Express MC | MasterCard V | Visa
Eat (Sabah) Bar Tzar Bistro Lot 12 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 260 211) Bella Italia 69 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 313 366) Borneo Wild Treasure Lot 27-0 Blk C Lrg Bundusan Square1D, Kota Kinabalu (6088 732 222) Brass Monkey Lot 1-0 Lorong Lintas Plaza 4, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 543)
Cabo Lot 32-0, Lorong Lintas Plaza 3, Kota Kinabalu (6088) 252 182 Mexican cuisine
Full House G7&1-10 Suria Sabah Jln Tun Fuad Stephens (014 559 9306)
Café De Vie Lot D-0-6 Lorong Metro Town 3, Kota Kinabalu (6088 393 863)
Gam Tong Hong Kong Recipe Lot G-823 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 833)
Circle Restaurant Le Meridien Hotel, Kota Kinabalu (6088 322 222)
Grand Port View Sea View Restaurant 16 Jln Tun Fuad Stephen, Kota Kinabalu (6088 538 178)
Emperor’s Delight Lot 6 Grd Flr Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6088 288 686)
Hana Japanese Restaurant Lot S21&S22 Blk E City Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 538 178)
Hot Rod Sausage House Fong Ip Café Lot 100 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu No 1-G-02 Blk A Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6088 213 618) (6016 804 3999)
K. Sanba’s Curry Specials Blk F Lorong Plaza Utama 1 Alamesra, Kota Kinabalu (6016 833 2308) Kampung Nelayan Taman Tun Fuad Bukit Padan, Kota Kinabalu (6088 256 001) Kirishima Japanese Restaurant Cititel Express No 1 Jln Singgah Mata 1 Asia City, Kota Kinabalu (6088 217 868) 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)
The Crab House Seafood Restaurant Strategically located at Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, The Crab House Seafood Restaurant is constantly abuzz with diners eager to indulge in its specialty crab dishes. Gargantuan deep sea mud crabs are flown in from Indonesia and the Philippines to keep them fresh and ready to be baked or slathered with aromatically seasoned sauces for a lip-smacking feast. Its signature baked crab is prepared with a unique technique that keeps the flesh tender yet easy to remove from the shell so that you can savour every last succulent morsel. Ground & 1st Floor, Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Open daily: 11am – 3.30pm, 5pm – 11pm Tel: 088- 201 883 FB: kkthecrabhouse An affogato from 5° Celsius.
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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
Kudos Bistro 69 Gaya Street (inside Jesselton Hotel), Kota Kinabalu (6088 313 366) La Fuente G-816 Grd Flr 1 Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 000) La Safran Grd Flr, The Peak Vista, Blk B, Lorong Puncak 1, Tg Lipat, 88400 Kota Kinabalu Tel: (6088 266 489) - non-halal French cuisine Little Italy Grd Flr Hotel Capital Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 231) Mad Ben Café Lot 121, Jalan Gaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu (6088 255 073) - classic western food Mai Yai Thai Orchid Restaurant Lot 13 KK Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu (6088 234 841)
Mdm Ing Fish Noodle Lot 21 Towering Koidupan Perdana Jln Tambunan, Penampang (6016 831 8726) Mr Ho’s Fine Foods L-72-G Grd Flr Blk L KK Times Square Phase 1, Kota Kinabalu (6088 222 623) Nagasaki Japanese Restaurant No 19 Grd Flr Bangunan Harrison Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 216 623) Nam Chai Restaurant Bah Kut Teh 10 Blk D Bdr Nam Tung, Sandakan (6089 612 603) Nan Yang Chic Kut Teh Grd Flr Lot 47 Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6016 833 5722) Natural Kitchen Lot No B10 & B11, Suria Sabah Shoppin Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 487 180)
biG listings Nishiki Japanese Restaurant Shop 4 Grd Flr 63 Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu (6088 230 582) October Coffee House Blk B The Peak Vista Lorong Puncak 1 Tjg Lipat, Kota Kinabalu (6010 346 954) Open Kitchen Grd Flr, Unit 8, Blk 1, Metro Town, 88300 Kota Kinabalu Tel: (6088) 254 161 - Asian food incorporating health conscious ingredients Pancake House Concourse Flr 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 110) Lot G94-94A Karamunsing Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 319 168) Party Play 117 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 311 210) Pasta Pasta 108 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6014 371 4665)
Peppermint Vietnamese Cuisine No. 85 Grd Flr Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6012 802 4582)
Santola Café Lot 14 Blk B Damai Point, Kota Kinabalu (6088 260 188)
Apollo Seafood Centre 4 Jln Yu Seng Selatan, Miri (6085 420 813)
Port View Seafood Village Lot 18 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 753)
Seng Hing Restaurant Ruang Sinsugan 2, Kota Kinabalu (6088 211 594)
Apple Restaurant 78 Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi, Bintulu (6086 333 377)
Seremban Seafood Restaurant Lot 126 Blk O Plaza Permai, Kota Kinabalu (6088 484 922)
Aroma Café 126 Jln Tabuan, Kuching (6082 417 163)
Restaurant Baba & Nyonya Recipe Blk E Grd Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6016 810 8206) Restoran Makanan Sedap No 1-0-1 Blk B Jln Kolam Centre Phase 2 Jln Lintas, Kota Kinabalu (6088 247 459)
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, Sailors Lot 36 1st Flr Grand Millennium Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 844) Plaza, Penampang (6088 731 960) Toscani’s Lot 14 The Waterfront Sakura Japanese Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Restaurant Kota Kinabalu G-23A & G-25, Oceanus (6088 242 879) Waterfront Mall Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Vino Vino Bistro 88000 Kota Kinabalu Unit J-57, 1st Flr, KK Times (6088) 273 604 Square, 88100 Kota Kinabalu - Japanese cuisine (6088) 486 363 - non-halal European fare with extensive wine collection Wah San Restaurant D2-G Blk 17 Jln Pryer, Sandakan (6089 212 626) Yamagoya Ramen Lot 109 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 253 701) Yoshimi Japanese Restaurant Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 388) Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh 74, Jln Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 192) - All pork dishes served in herbal soup
Eat (Sarawak) A One Seafood Restaurant Lrg Chew Siik Hiong 1, Sibu (6084 215 803) Absolute Tribal Restaurant Hills Shopping Mall, Kuching (6082 237 468) Alfian Restaurant 52 Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 215) All Joy Café 8-1 Jln Khoo Hun Yeang, Kuching (6082 243 535)
Asian Express Restaurant G40 The Spring, Kuching (6082 414 088) Bee Hiong Restaurant Café 157G Jln Muhibbah, Lawas (6085 285 137) Beei Jing Restaurant Sdn Bhd 157 Jln Kg Nyabor, Sibu (6084 330 955) Bismi Restaurant 27 Jln Sommerville, Bintulu (6086 331 835) Bites by the Batik 38 Jln Pandungan, Kuching (6082 422 845) Bla Bla Bla 27, Jln Tabuan, 93000 Kuching (6082 233 944) - Chinese-inspired fusion dishes Black Bean Coffe & Tea 87, Ewe Hai Street, 93000 Kuching ((6082 420 290) - Most aromatic shop in town with the finest brews Boardriders Café Plaza Merdeka Jln Pearl, Kuching (6082 237 526) Boulevard Restaurant 2228 Jln Saberkas, Lutong (6085 653 175) Buenas Filipino Lechon & Restaurant 329 Jln Tj Batu, Bintulu (6086 310 860) Café Café at Original Carwash Lot 211-214, Section 9, KTLD, Rubber Rd, Kuching (6082 256 396) - Asian and western fare including Nyonya and Foochow cuisine Café Min Xin Lot 1126-27 Riam Comm Centre, Miri (6085 628 839) Capital Restaurant 86 Jln Keppel, Bintulu (6086 331 160) Carvery Restaurant Jln Abell, Kuching (6082 239 449)
biG listings Casabella Mediterranean Restaurant Crown Square, Kuching (6082 346 612) Chef at Home Lorong Green 1 Blk 10, Kuching (6016 858 5159) Chuan Hong Restaurant 123 Jln Council Saman (6083 322 466) Crown Dynasty Restaurant Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Bintulu (6086 335 908) Cuppa-Kap Coffee Jln Song, Kuching (6019 8869636) Da Mi Xiang Gu Tou Bao Restaurant Tabuan Hts Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 458 952) Dynasty Chinese Restaurant Oil Town Comm Complex, Miri (6085 424 000) Earthlings Coffee Workshop Coffee shop, roaster, academy Lot 45, Grd Flr, No.1, CityONE Megamall, Jln Song East Court Chicken Rice 867 Jln Club SAman (6083 326 818) Eden Everise Wisma Nation Horizon, Block C, Kuching (6016 888 4522) Escobar SF3 Damai Cenral Pantai Damai Santubong, Kuching (6014 288 1160) Fac Bravo Restaurant 7778 Jln Sultan Iskandar, Bintulu (6086 316 920) Farley Restaurant 1721 Jln Salim, Sibu (6019 816 3052) Feast & Furious Café 244, Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman (6016 2620916) Fisherman Restaurant 4 Jln Chew Geok Lin, Sibu (6084 316 888) Fratini’s Restaurant 2512 Jln Boulevard 3, Miri (6085 431 115) Fu Lai Siang Restaurant 108 Jln Pekan Bt Niah, Bt Niah (6085 737 168) 54
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
5°Celsius Hand crafted daily by Jonathan, a banker turned gelato aficionado, are the deliciously flavoured artisan gelato of 5° Celsius to indulge your craving for a sweet treat. Jonathan’s silky gelato doesn’t just melt in your mouth but it has the right balance of sweetness, flavour and texture for a truly satisfying dessert. More than 30 flavours have been crafted but only 12 are served daily so there’s always something different to choose from everyday, whether you have it on a Belgian waffle, with a cup of coffee or on its own. No. 6, Grd Floor, Latitude 6, Jalan Lintas Bypass Open: Tues-Fri 2pm – 11pm; Sat, Sun & public holiday 1pm-11pm. Mon-closed. Tel: 012-516 2525 FB: 5ivedegreescelsius
biG listings Golden City Restaurant 87, Jln Ong Chu Seng, Saratok (6083 436 139)
waterfront Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching (6082 412 210)
Highlands Seafood Restaurant 298 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 318 828)
Jubilee Restaurant 49G Jln India, Kuching (6082 245 626)
Hock Chu Leu Restaurant 28 Jln Tukang Besi, Sibu (6084 316 524)
Khan’s Bilal Restaurant 229-G Jln Maju, Miri (6085 418 440)
Imperial Duck Restaurant 313 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 336 313)
Kim Bay HK Macau Restaurant Boulevard Shopping Mall Jln Datuk Tawi, Kuching (6082 239 308)
James Brooke Bistro & Café Western and signature local cuisine by the
Koreana Restaurant 10002 Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6082 575 072)
Kuching Noodle Porridge House 115-1 Wisma Saberkas, Kuching (6082 426 005) L.L. Banana Leaf 7G Lorong Rubber 1 Jln Rubber, Kuching (6082 239 404) Li Garden Restaurant Hock Lee Centre, Kuching (6082 340 785) Lim Hock Ann 96 1 Jln Kg Kuntal, Kuching (6082 846 533) Lok Thian Restaurant 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 3313 310)
Lu Lai Vegetarian 3641, Lrg 2 Off Jln Rock, Kuching (6082 242 863) Lucky Restaurant 65C G Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 562) Lyn’s Thandoori Restaurant 7 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 234 934) Mango Tree Restaurant Jalan Crookshank, Kuching (6082 235 353) Map Restaurant Bang Terminal, Kuching (6082 459 087) Marco Polo Restaurant 116A BDA Shahida, Bintulu (6086 332 458)
Merry Restaurant 187 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 240 118)
Scandinavian food inspired by the owner’s grandma’s recipes 56, Upper China Street, D’tea Pavilion, Friendship Park Jln Song, Kuching (6016 858 6669)
Metro Café 781 Jln Bangkita, Limbang (6085 215 488)
Nam Hoi Restaurant 110 Jln Penrissen Bt 7, Kuching (6082 612 379)
Min Hua (89) Restaurant G 13 Jln Bintang Utara, Bintangor (6084 693 240)
Orion Tropical Jln Merpati, Miri (6085 417 417)
Medan Seafood Restaurant 56, Jln Mdn Setiaraja, Mukah (6084 874 145)
Momoyama Wisma Phoenix, Kuching (6082 420 561) My Little Kitchen Home cooked style
Lunch options from Pando Cafe
Padungan Restaurant 268 Jln Tunku Abd Rahman, Kuching (6082 233 417) Patz Dayak Home Cook Special New Full 3 Foodcourt, Stutong (next to Giant Hypermart, Tabuan Jaya) (6016 864 4763) Pin Pin Café 18 Jln Krokong Bau (6082 763 486) Pinang Nyonya Non-halal nyonya cuisine 18, Grd Flr, 2nd Precinct, Jln Setia Raja 93450 Kuching (6082 459 162) Popular Corner Seafoods Restaurant Bda Shahida Commercial Centre, Bintulu (6086 319 688) Portico 17A Lorong Park Lane, Kuching (6019 819 8046) Pot & Grill Restaurant 9 Jln Tun Abd Rahman Yaakub, Kuching (6082 425 525) Rejang Restaurant 6 Lrg Lanang 2 Sibu (6016 860 2636) Robata Yaki 493 Jln Rambutan, Kuching (6082 235 372) Rock Road Seafood Restaurant 1230 Jln Rock Bt 2½ , Kuching (6082 241 575) Sajian Warisan Restaurant 537 Jln Gartak, Miri (6085 429 911) Salleh’s Corner Café RPR Phase 2 Shoplot Jln Astana Petra Jaya, Kuching (6012 807 8033) Sea View Restaurant G Pusat Tmn SDagang, Bintulu (6086 334 929)
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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
biG listings
Spicy Mango Melon and Asam Boi Mojito from SOULed OUT
Seventy2 Restaurant 894 Jln Permaisuri, Miri (6085 366 318)
Teo Seafood 787 Jln Kg Buntal, Kuching (6082 846 532)
Jln Padungan, Bukit Mata, Kuching (6019 889 9838)
Shabu-kun Restaurant 253 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 317 311)
The Banquet 4560 Jln Datuk Tawi Sli, Kuching (6082 451 414)
Sheraton Restaurant 37 Psn Brooke, Sibu (6084 336 341)
The Dyak Restaurant Indigenous Dayak cuisine Sublot 29, Grd Flr, Panovel Commercial Complex, Jln Simpang Tiga, 93300, Kuching (6016 868 0071)
Tribal Stove Blk H Jln Borneo Taman Sri, Kuching (6082 234 873)
Sin Lung Sheng Fu Tiao Qiang Restaurant 10788 Jln Simpang Tiga, Kuching (6082 231 260) Sin Soon Chin Restaurant 2415 Jln Boulevard 2, Miri (6012 808 5456)
The Junk Western fare 80, Jln Wayang, 93000 Kuching (6082 259 450)
Sri Menanti Coffee House Restaurant 15 Lrg Pahlawan 7b, Sibu (6084 218 196)
Tian Xian Relish Restaurant 313 Jln Melaka Raya, MC (606 288 1120)
Surabaya Restaurant 288 Jln Bendahara, Miri (6085 411 239)
Tong Lok Restaurant 1367 Jln Buangsiol, Limbang (6085 216 188)
Sushi Kin The Spring, Kuching (6082 245 355) Sushi Tie-tts Wisma Sanyan, Sibu (6084 342 875)
Tong Xin Court Restaurant 151 Lrg Datuk Abang Abd Rahim 5a, Kuching (6082 482 252)
Ten-Ichi Japanese Restaurant 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 331 310)
Topspot Bukit Mata Seafood Centre Halal seafood centre with seafood fresh off the boats
Wang Hin Restaurant 1 Soon Hup Comm Complex, Miri (6085 413 129) Warung Nasi Kuning Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6016 809 1286) Wei Thian Restaurant Golden Square, Siburan (6082 862 968) Xin Tsui Siang Kitchen Wisma Nation Horizon Blk D, Kuching (6082 414 616) Yun Yan Restaurant Stutong Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 366 115) Zhun San Yen Vegetarian Food Lot 165 Jln Chan Ann, Kuching (6082 230 068)
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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biG essentials
BRUNEI Banks Banks in Brunei Darussalam are usually open Mondays to Fridays, 9am - 4pm and on Saturdays, 9am 11am. Some banks have branches with later closing times. Islamic banks follow the same operation hours except on Fridays when they are closed for prayers between 11am - 2.30pm. Cash withdrawals and deposits can be made from Automated Teller Machines (ATM) that can be found in various shopping complexes and bank branches all over the country. ATM cards affiliated with the international Plus or Cirrus systems are accepted at most ATMs.
Credit cards VISA and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards in hotels, restaurants and major shopping complexes. Some establishments accept American Express.
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Money Changer Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, hotels, various shopping complexes and banks. To cash or exchange travelers cheques, visit major international banks in the capital.
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
Telecommunications Friday Prayer Time All retail, food and beverage outlets and business offices are closed between 12 noon and 2pm on Fridays to observe the Friday prayer time for Muslims.
Islamic Etiquette Although Islam is the state religion of Brunei Darussalam, it is also a country that prides itself on the diversity of its people – including their religions. Visitors are welcome to mosques, provided some etiquette is followed. In general, proper attire is required; women are required to cover their head, shoulders, and knees. Some mosques will provide simple robes and shawls to meet these standards. Shoes are to be removed before entering a mosque. Please do not pass in front of people in prayer, and do not touch the Al-Quran. Please ask for permission before taking photographs – particularly inside! Mosques are usually closed on Thursday and Friday, and during prayer times – your hotel, tour guide, or Muslim locals can help you determine a good time to visit.
Most public phones operate on prepaid calling cards which can be obtained in all major shopping areas and retail stores. Mobile prepaid SIM cards are also available for purchase at DST Communications Sdn Bhd (DST Com) and Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB) service counters as well as the respective authorised vendors’ stores.
Taxis Information
Centre
Located at the Art Gallery at the Royal Wharf. Visitors can obtain information about Brunei and related pamphlets and maps free from here during working hours (Mon-Thurs & Sat from 9am-12.15pm & 1.30pm4.30pm).
B uses There are six bus routes servicing the BSB area. Normal operating hours are from 6am-8pm. Bus fares start from B$1.00. Buses heading to other towns in Brunei such as Tutong, Kuala Belait and Seria depart from the bus terminal located at the multistorey carpark on Jalan Cator in BSB.
Water
Smoking Smoking is prohibited in both air-conditioned and non airconditioned areas in Brunei Darussalam. Smoking is banned in specific places, including government buildings, hospitals, recreational and educational centres, public transport and restaurants. Offenders could be fined.
Metered taxis can be found at the airport, hotels, shopping centres, and the central bus station in Bandar Seri Begawan. Alternatively, grab a Dart Taxi using the ‘Dart’ app - a taxi booking application that can be downloaded at the App Store and Google Play.
Taxis Unique to Brunei, the water taxi is the most common means of transportation in Kampong Ayer. You can hail a water taxi from the numerous jetties along the banks of Brunei River. Fares are negotiable but usually a standard ride costs about B$1.00. Regular boat services to Temburong operate between 6am-4.30pm daily and a one way trip costs B$7.00.
Ferry Services Passenger ferry services to the Malaysian island of Labuan operate from 7am to 4pm and departs from the Serasa Terminal in Muara town. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
USEFUL local Malay words Good morning Good afternoon Goodnight Thank you You’re welcome What is your name? My name is … Excuse me Yes No How much? Where is the toilet? I want to go to … Turn right Turn left
Selamat pagi
Jalan terus
Selamat petang
Lapangan Terbang
Go straight Airport Selamat malam Town Terima kasih Home Sama-sama Shops Siapa nama awda? Eat Nama saya … Drink Maafkan saya Walk Ya Chicken Tidak Beef Berapa? Seafood Di mana tandas? Vegetables Saya mahu pergi ke... Rice Belok ke kanan 1, 2, 3...
Bandar Rumah Kedai Makan Minum Jalan-jalan Ayam Daging Makanan laut Sayur-sayuran Nasi Satu, Dua, Tiga...
Belok ke kiri
NUMBERS TO NOTE EMERGENCY Police 993 Fire 995 Ambulance 991 Directory enquiries 113 Darussalam Hotline 123 FLIGHT INFORMATION General 2331747 AIRLINES Royal Brunei Airlines 2212222, 2240500 Air Asia 2333045 Singapore Airlines 2244901/2/3/4 Cebu Pacific Air 2222666, 2227965, 2239888
Unit 1.45B, First Floor The Mall, Abdul Razak Complex Gadong, Brunei, BE3519 Tel: (673) 245 7700
Opening Hours: 10am - 10pm www.missha.net
MEDICAL SERVICES RIPAS Hospital 2242424 Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) 2611433 Gleneagles JPMC 2611212 Tutong Hospital 4221336 Ext 991 Kuala Belait Hospital 3332366 Ext 991 Temburong Hospital 5221526 Ext 127
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
59
biG essentials
Tourist Information Centre
SABAH Banks
Banks open from 9am to 4pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.
Credit Cards Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards at hotels, restaurants and major shopping malls. Some establishments do accept American Express.
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Money Changer
Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, shopping malls, hotels and major banks.
SARAWAK Banks
Banks open from 9.30am to 3pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.
Credit Cards Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards at hotels, restaurants and major shopping malls. Some establishments do accept American Express.
Telecommunications
Buses
There are three main bus terminals that operate regular services. The terminal along Jalan Tun Razak provides services within the city and its outskirts. For destinations south of the city (Papar, Beaufort, Tenom, Tambunan, Keningau), use the terminal near Padang Merdeka. For any other destinations north of the city and all the way to the east coast towns of Sandakan, Tawau, Lahad Datu and Semporna, you have to take a bus to the Kota Kinabalu North Bus Terminal in Inanam and from there proceed to your destination of choice. Kinabalu Park is located en route from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan.
Air Travel
Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) is the second busiest airport in Malaysia and is the main terminal for Malaysia Airlines, MASWings, Firefly, Royal Brunei Airlines, Dragonair, Silkair and Asiana Airlines. Terminal 2 caters to low-cost carriers Air Asia, Cebu Pacific and Eastar Jet.
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A free city-tram service is available for sightseeing around Kuching with pick up points at designated hotels. A daily bus service between Kuching and the airport operates from 6am-7pm and takes 40 minutes. The main intercity bus terminal is at Penrissen Bus Terminal southeast of Kuching. Ask Tourism Information Centres for bus timetables; a ‘green bus’ in the Kuching area goes to Santubong (SCV).
Air Travel
Kuching International Airport services airlines to destinations within Malaysia and overseas via Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia, Firefly, Tiger Airways, Royal Brunei, Silk Air and Batavia Air (Pontianak, Kalimantan). A network of services using smaller aircrafts provides access to remote destinations within Sarawak such as Bario, Mulu and Ba Kelalan.
Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, shopping malls, hotels and major banks. Some money changers may not accept foreign currency in small denomination or notes with a date or serial number that they don’t approve of.
Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
Taxis
Taxis are available at both airport terminals and cost about RM30.00 to get to the city. The journey takes between 10-15 minutes. Within the city, taxi stations are located next to major shopping malls and hotels. Long distance taxi services can be found next to Padang Merdeka.
Buses
Money Changer
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It is possible to make IDD phone calls at payphones using coins or call cards. Prepaid calling cards are also widely available by authorized dealers at shopping malls. Most major hotels have WIFI facility either in their guest rooms or public areas. An increasing number of restaurants now have WIFI zones too. Cybercafés offer very affordable rates for internet services.
Telecommunications
It is possible to make IDD phone calls at payphones using coins or call cards. Prepaid calling cards are also widely available by authorized dealers at shopping malls. Most major hotels have WIFI facility either in their guest rooms or public areas. An increasing number of restaurants now have WIFI zones too. Cybercafés offer very affordable rates for internet services.
Sabah Tourism Board Jalan Gaya Tel: (6088) 212 121 Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sinsuran Complex Tel: (6088) 232 121 Tourism Malaysia (Sabah) Api Api Centre Tel: (6088) 211 732 Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 1 Tel: (6088) 413 359 Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 2 Tel: (6088) 447 075
Ferry Services Jesselton Point is the main terminal for boats to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands and to Labuan Island. If you wish to drive to Labuan, use the ferry terminal at Menumbok south of the city where car ferries are available.
Express Boats and Ferry Services A boat service locally known as tambang is available for the short trip across Kuching River to the riverside villages on the other side and along the river for sightseeing. Fast and comfortable express boats connect coastal towns (Kuching, Sibu, Kapit) and villages on the major rivers in Sarawak. The Express Ferry Terminal in Kuching offers trips to Sibu and onwards to Kapit for upriver journeys. Take a bus from Sibu to Miri for ferries to Brunei and onwards to Labuan island and Kota Kinabalu.
Taxis
Taxi fare from Kuching Tourist airport to the city cost about Information Centre RM22.00 per way. Taxies are easily found at large hotels, or at taxi stands in all the major towns in Sarawak. Taxis don’t use meters so always negotiate the fare before getting into a cab!
Kuching Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6082) 410 944/2 Miri Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6085) 434 181 Sibu Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6084) 340 980
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Family Ties
What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? (1993)
Intan Abu Daniel
If there is one truth about families, it is this: no two families are alike. In this issue of BiG magazine, we compile a list of our favourite movies about families - from the dysfunctional to the brilliant and the heroic to the just plain crazy. So with December nearly upon us and as you prepare to spend some quality time with your family, watch these movies and be thankful for your own goofy bunch of relatives.
The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
Starring Gene Hackman, Anjelica Huston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Ben Stiller Directed by Wes Anderson Quote “Can’t somebody be a sh*t their whole life and try to repair the damage?” – Royal Tenenbaum
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a family as dysfunctional as the Tenenbaums – a family of artists and geniuses. But the father’s sudden departure from the family during the children’s adolescence took its toll on the prodigies, and when he returns years later to inform his family that he is terminally ill, his three children are at low points in their lives: playwright Margot hasn’t won an award since the age of nine; pro tennis player, artist and adoptive brother Richie’s career is on the rocks; and mathematical and business genius Chas is slowly unraveling from the death of his wife. The Royal Tenenbaums is Wes Anderson’s third movie, and it cemented his reputation as a filmmaker with an offbeat aesthetic that makes every film he makes undeniably his. But for all its quirkiness and style, this is also a movie about redemption, and proves that when it comes to family, there’s always a second chance. 64
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Captain Fantastic (2016)
Starring Viggo Mortensen, George MacKay, Samantha Isler
Directed by Matt Ross Quote “I tell the truth to my kids. I don’t lie to my kids.” - Ben Cash
A movie about a family that literally retreats into the woods, left-wing survivalist Ben Cash is raising his children off the grid in the forests of the Pacific Northwest, cutting them off from the modern world and teaching his children to be fully educated beyond their age and self-sufficient in the wild. This idyllic life is shattered when his wife – in a mental institution for bipolar disorder – commits suicide, and the family gets into a bus to crash the funeral. Ben Cash (Viggo Mortensen) is truly Captain Fantastic – a superhero father without the superhero abilities, who is principled and militant but gentle and loving at the same time. And although the children occasionally show frustration at their father for living a life separate from the modern world, they have each other’s backs when it matters the most. They also, literally, make beautiful music together. You’ll find yourself singing “Sweet Child o’ Mine” for days on end after this film.
Little Miss Sunshine (2006) Starring Abigail Breslin, Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, Alan Arkin, Toni Collette Directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris Quote “Everyone… just pretend to be normal.” – Richard Hoover The above quote perfectly sums up Little Miss Sunshine, an Oscar-nominated film about the Hoover family, comprising quirky characters such as an unsuccessful motivational speaker, a homosexual and suicidal Proust scholar, a Nietzschereading teenager who has taken a vow of silence, and a grandfather who snorts heroin. But when young Olive Hoover becomes a finalist in a beauty pageant, they get into a rusted VW van to drive across the country for the contest. She may or may not win, but you’ll still find yourself rooting for this zany family.
The Incredibles (2004)
Voiced by Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L Jackson Directed by Brad Bird Quote “Normal? What do you know about normal? What does anyone in this family know about normal?” – Violet Parr
Starring Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio, Juliette Lewis Directed by Lasse Hallström Quote “Describing Endora is like dancing to no music.” – Gilbert Grape.
A film adaptation of Peter Hedges’ brilliant novel of the same name about a family living in the small town of Endora, this movie chronicles a few days in the life of Gilbert Grape (Johnny Depp), a young man who has never set foot outside of his small town, and has put his own life on hold indefinitely to care for his morbidly obese agoraphobic mother and mentally ill teenaged brother Arnie (Leonardo DiCaprio in his first Oscar-nominated role). This is a bittersweet movie about sacrifices, and how we should learn to never take our family for granted.
Bob Parr (Mr Incredible) and his wife (Elastigirl) were once the greatest superheroes in Metroville, but were forced into hiding after one too many superhero accidents and civil lawsuits. Fifteen years later, they are retired superheroes living normal lives with their three children: Violet, Dash and JackJack, who are also hiding their superpowers from the world. Unable to accept this ordinary life, Bob gets back into the superhero game when he takes on a top-secret assignment at a remote island, but soon realises that it will take more than his super-strength to save the world from total destruction. This glorious animated homage to superheroes is neither Marvel nor DC, but back in 2004 and up until today, it’s a brilliant superhero film that is so much better than many that have been released since. It’s also a movie about family, and how when a family bands together, they can defeat just about anything.
Parenthood (1989)
Starring Steve Martin, Mary Steenburgen, Dianne Wiest, Keanu Reeves Directed by Ron Howard
American Beauty (1999)
Starring Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening and Thora Birch Directed by Sam Mendes Quote “Welcome to America’s weirdest home videos.” – Ricky Fitts
American Beauty tells the story of Lester Burnham – a frustrated father who is ignored by his wife, unloved by his daughter and unnecessary in his workplace – and his rebellion, sparked by his sudden infatuation with his daughter’s sexy classmate. Imploring its viewers to look closer under the surface of a seemingly perfect family, this Oscar-winning movie gave firsttime director Sam Mendes an Oscar for Best Director while Kevin Spacey took the award for Best Actor. And if those aren’t good enough reasons to make you watch this movie, then watch it to inspire you to appreciate every single minute of your life, and every single person in it, especially your own family.
Quote “You know, Mrs Buckman, you need a license to buy a dog or drive a car. You need a license to catch a fish. But they’ll let any idiot be a father.” – Tod
If you’re thinking of the TV show named ‘Parenthood’, you’re almost right – this is the film that inspired the 2010 TV adaptation of the same name.
Father of the Bride (1991)
Starring Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, Martin Short Directed by Charles Shyer Quote “I suddenly realized what was happening. Annie was all grown up and was leaving us, and something inside began to hurt.” – George Banks
A remake of the 1950’s comedy of the same name, Father of the Bride is a comedy about a man named George Banks (Steve Martin), whose daughter comes home from
Europe to announce that she’s getting married, much to his horror. This is a sweet movie that most fathers will likely relate to, and while there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments throughout the film (with much thanks to Martin Short’s hilarious Franck Eggelhoffer – a wedding coordinator with an indecipherable accent), the movie’s magic comes at its quiet moments, such as when George realizes that his daughter is no longer a girl, but a woman. This is a comedy about a father and his daughter, and learning to let go.
Signs (2002)
Starring Mel Gibson, Joaquin Phoenix, Abigail Breslin Directed by M. Night Shyamalan Quote “Everybody in this family needs to calm down and eat some fruit or something.” – Graham Hess
During a time when M. Night Shyamalan could do no wrong, he released his third movie – a movie about the sudden emergence of crop circles in the corn fields of a house owned by Graham Hess (Mel Gibson). What is first suspected as mischief is later confirmed by news coverage around the world that the crop circles are actually the signs of an alien invasion. But this movie isn’t really about crop circles or aliens, it’s about a family of four: a preacher who has lost his faith in God, his asthmatic son, his daughter’s obsession with clean water, and his bat-swinging brother Merrill, and how when the stakes are high, a family needs to believe in each other in order to survive an ordeal.
The movie is set in middle-class suburbia, and features the lives of four generations of parents and children. Parenthood, as all parents know, can be a minefield, and these families do their best (and their worst) to bring up their children while steamrolling through its many challenges: divorce, rebellious teenagers, skeletons in the closet, high expectations, and more. Yet in spite of its sometimes serious nature and its accurate take on family dynamics, this is a hilarious movie with great performances throughout, and is a must-watch for all parents and would-be parents everywhere.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Voiced by George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Bill Murray Directed by Wes Anderson Quote “We’re all different. But there’s something kind of fantastic about that, isn’t there?” – Mrs Fox
A stop-motion animation flick based on the famous children’s novel by Roald Dahl about the charming and roguish Mr. Fox (George Clooney), who is tired of his uneventful family life and devises a plan to steal from three greedy farmers: the fat Boggis, the short Bunce and the lean Bean. But the fat and short and lean quickly turn mean when they decide to wage war on the fox, putting his family and friends in grave danger. You can’t mistake a Wes Anderson movie even if it’s an animated one, and if you’re not a fan of Anderson’s hipster-attracting aesthetic, don’t let that put you off: this film is hip with a lot heart. It tells the viewers that a living being should never be afraid of going beyond their station in life, and despite Mr. Fox’s hijinks, he loves his family and friends and is willing to do anything to save them. At the risk of sounding cheesy, Fantastic Mr. Fox is truly fantastic. Borneo.Insider’s.Guide
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Movies to look out for this quarter OCT OCT
Geostorm Starring: Gerard Butler, Ed Harris, Abbie Cornish
Thor: Ragnarok Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Cate Blanchett, Mark Ruffalo
Climate-controlling satellites malfunction and start to attack earth. Astronaut Jake Lawson (Butler) along with other fellow astronauts race against time to stop earth from being swallowed by a Geostorm.
Asgard is on the verge of destruction. To stop the goddess of death, Hela (Blanchett), from trying to take control of the honourable dead in Valhalla and end Asgard, Thor (Hemsworth) has to round up his allies to stop her evil plans.
NOV
Coco Starring: Alanna Ubach, Benjamin Bratt, Gael Garcia Bernal Miguel dreams of being a musician but he is held up by his family’s generations-old ban on music. He embarks on a journey with his dog, Dante, to the Land of the Dead in search for answers to his problem.
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DEC oct
DEC
Jigsaw
The Mountain Between Us
Starring: Laura Vandervoort, Tobin Bell, Callum Keith Rennie
Starring: Idris Elba, Kate Winslet, Dermot Mulroney
Directed by the Spierig Brothers, this is the eighth instalment in the Saw franchise. Bodies are found in the city, each with their own sickening demise. Investigations point to someone named John Kramer, also known as Jigsaw. This discovery puzzles them as he has been dead for over a decade.
Two strangers - a surgeon (Elba) and photojournalist (Winslet) board a chartered plane that crashes midflight into a remote snow-covered mountain. In their efforts to stay alive, they have to endure their pain and work together, pushing limits and discovering strengths they never knew they had.
Wonder Starring: Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson, Jacob Tremblay
NOV
Auggie (Tremblay) is born with a facial difference that makes him a target of bullying. For the first time, he enrols in a public elementary school and his only wish is for other people to see him beyond his physical features. 66
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Star Wars: The Last Jedi Starring: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Mark Hamill Having found Luke Skywalker in the previous chapter The Force Awakens, Rey (Ridley) continues her epic journey with Skywalker and her resistance companions Finn and Poe to battle the dark forces in the universe.
Starring: Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Hugh Jackman The musical tells the story of P. T. Barnum, a visionary who gave birth to the term “show business” and became a worldwide sensation through his global circus tour.
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