BiG Oct-Dec 2020

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Oct // Dec 2020

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Editor’s Note

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

CHMP MEDIA And so we have reached our final quarter of the year!

What a struggle it has been for all of us. Leisure travel is not on anyone’s radar this year, so we stay on the staycation road and give you some ideas on what to do in Borneo at year’s end. We’re also dedicating four pages of inspiration to you by focusing on some of the Bornean natives who have managed to make their mark in the world, with the hopes that even during these dreary times, this will spur you on to achieve your dreams!

Speaking of inspiration, we’re also dedicating a few pages to some inspiration-worthy women in Borneo, which includes the beautiful and massively talented singer Alena Murang and artist Noor Sarah. We are also super super excited about Dr Kathrina Daud’s upcoming full-length novel The Fisherman King, which was shortlisted for the Epigram awards! Dr Kathrina was kind enough to tell us a bit about her book and how she’s been coaxing the creative writing community into the spotlight with the Tiny Lit Fest that she’ll be organising again at the end of this year.

Well guys, it’s been a helluva year. I find myself, at random intervals, thinking back to December 2019 and marvelling at how we had absolutely no idea that a global pandemic was about to topple the world into dire straits.

The pandemic trainwreck affected everyone, everywhere, at some level or the other. At BiG, we were suddenly aghast at the idea that we were publishing a travel and lifestyle magazine at a time when leisure travel was and still is non-existent. We are ever so grateful that our supreme leader and Editor-at-Large, Wan Zainal, chose to persevere and continue publishing the magazine to offer even just an idea of an escape from the situation that the world is in.

We continue to persevere, and we will continue to do so in 2021.

And so in a year when travel and lifestyle is but a wistful memory, allow us to thank you, our wonderful, loyal, fantastic, amazing, lovely readers, for sticking with us.

See you again in 2021!

Editor-At-Large

Wan Zainal Shazali Editor

Intan Abu Daniel Assistant Editor

Sheyenne Siah Designer

Novri Rinaldi Assistant Designer

Aqilah Hj Abu Bakar Marketing Manager

Adriane Jaafar Editorial

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

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

Borneo Insider’s Guide magazines are distributed to:

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

BiG Focus

26 contents

28 BiG Getaway

BiG SPECIAL 8 Year End Activities BiG SCOOP Things we want, seen and heard this quarter

54 80’s Pop Culture Films 56 Movies to Look Out for this Quarter

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

12 BiG Finds Around Brunei 15 RB Dine & Fly 16 Start Your Own Plant Collection

26 Cosmic Legends and Kelabit Culture 28 Dr Kathrina Daud, Author of The Fisherman King 30 BiG x Biz Brunei

BiG Feature Shining a spotlight on Borneo

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

22 Borneo to the World

32 Jakarta Jaunt

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

34 Know Your Coffee 36 Brunei Restaurant Reviews 38 Sarawak & Sabah Restaurant Reviews 40 Restaurant Listings in Brunei 46 Restaurant Listings in Borneo BiG Screen See what’s playing on television and cinema screens around town

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

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BiG Appetite We try the food so you can follow suit

BiG Scoop

16

BiG Screen

54

advertorial

ST had launched its very own Innovative lab D (InnoLab) back in February. InnoLab is a digital community built to foster more innovative and productive individuals for future communities. DST have created this space for the youth, businesses and even the government to utilise to nurture their creativity and innovative ideas to put them into practice.

Innovation starts with an idea; DST believes innovation is not just about what technologies are used or what resources you have, innovation is all about transforming a person’s knowledge and putting ideas out there through discussions with other individuals that can make everything possible.

The InnoLab has Innovate@Programs that specifically caters to graduates, businesses and government bodies, the programs are Innovate@ Uni: Catalyst, Innovate@Biz: Innovate or Get Left Behind, Innovate@Biz: Market Access, Innovate@Biz: Industry 4.0, and Innovate@Gov: Innovate with the Government.

In September, DST had kicked-off the Innovate@Uni: Catalyst program together with their Academic Partner, University Technology Brunei (UTB) and their Entrepreneurship Partner, Darussalam Enterprise (DARe).

The Catalyst is designed specifically to meet the needs of final year university students and graduates. It is a program which gives the students an opportunity to be exposed to entrepreneurship, create their own employment, create and develop innovative products. There are two series under the Catalyst program, the Founders Series and the Builders Series.

The Founders Series provides the participants with real-world and hands-on experiences of an entrepreneur’s journey from creating an idea to building their own business to become their own boss.

They are exposed to many aspects of innovation and entrepreneurship, where they will have the opportunity to develop their ideas to create new products and services to solve real problems that will

meet the customers’ needs.

Whereas the Builders Series provides a hands-on experience of an innovator’s journey from identifying the problem and developing possible solutions, to putting the solutions into practice. Participants will gain first-hand experiences in the aspects of creativity and innovations through proper education, various workshops, as well as coaching and mentoring by national and international experts and professionals.

DST marks another significant milestone in October with the launch of InnoConnect, a modular, easyto-use, and a secure data exchange platform. It is a digital highway allowing access to services seamlessly and in real time. DST understands that in this new digital age, everything is all about convenience, accessibility and getting connected anytime, anywhere.

Getting connected to services with just a few clicks of a button is the ultimate convenience and is of great importance to everyone. With InnoConnect, services can be delivered better, with minimal duplication of efforts, makes better use of data, and most importantly the services can be accessed digitally. InnoConnect allows its users to share the right information seamlessly while at the same time protecting data securely.

InnoConnect will allow DST to support the public and private sectors to enable seamless connectivity, interoperability and portability across complex ecosystem-based services. Transforming how individuals, businesses and service providers interact with each other, making it easier to reach out to all Bruneians.

Visit the DST website at www.dst.com.bn/innolab for more information.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

7

biG special

Don’t let

special

Covid keep you

Down!

Here we are. The time of year that so many of us look forward to all year long whether it be a festive holiday escape of adventure or an opportune moment to catch up with loved ones. However as we all know, this has been a year unlike any other in modern times, forcing us all to adapt to the reality of Covid-19, and with that in mind let it be said (or typed I should say) that the BiG team has your back! In light of these circumstances we have compiled a list of activities that you very well may want to consider if that need to get out of your homes proves to be an itch that you need to badly scratch.

Credit: @jerudongp

ark

Adventure Time If you identify as an outdoorsy person and have yet to experience what Trandie has to offer, then you are missing out. From abseiling, white river rafting and canoeing, to the flying fox, wall climbing and canopy walks, it’s little wonder that many team-building exercises are hosted here, on top of the popular scenic tours to the Ulu Temburong National Park. What are you waiting for?

Credit: Adam Hanif

Jump On! The much-loved Jerudong Park is by global standards an extremely affordable option for a day out with family, friends, or even if you feel like going solo. Whether you visit during the week or weekend, queues into this fun-filled space have gotten bigger and bigger as Brunei’s Covid situation continues to improve, lending an air of excitement among those who need to be part of a

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

social setting while having fun and feeling safe. With a $15 admission fee as well as $8 and $10 ticket cards, you can have a splash at the water park, enjoy the multiple attractions, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy a leisurely stroll within a welldesigned and landscaped backdrop. Have fun!

FIND US: Jerudong Tel: 673-2611777 qq FB: Jerudong Park Playground IG: @jerudongpark

CONTACT US: Kg Batang Duri, Temburong Tel: 673-2231570 673-8730482 qq FB: Trandie Brunei IG: @trandie

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

3

biG special

Where’s My Camera?

The revitalisation of Pekan Bangar has resulted in a commercial business area where a green-friendly power source that doubles as an art installation, which has been dubbed the Supertrees have been built. These colourful artificial constructs comprise solar panels that provide much needed shade and energy to the grid, and run down a central avenue with multi-pastel hued shop houses lining one side in parallel.

This place makes for a good photo op!

Seafaring in Style

FIND US: Kompleks Utama Bumiputera Pekan Bangar Temburong

CONTACT US: The Marina Clubhouse, Sutera Harbour, 88000, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Tel: 6018-6662009 6012-8852009 qq FB: North Borneo Cruises IG: @northborneocruises

If you consider yourself a ‘water baby’ nature lover and appreciate the finer things in life but are not in the mood to get your feet wet then it very well may be worth your time to try out an enjoyable scenic two-hour cruise right past the Tungku Abdul Rahman Marine Park Islands, and the famous waterfront of Kota Kinabalu City. With the options of sailing on a Catamaran as part of a sunset dinner (4.50pm – 7pm) and a later night option (7.30pm – 9.30pm), you can sail in style while enjoying an international buffet spread and live band accompaniment across a lavish modern open-decked atmosphere, which given the chaotic nature of the ongoing pandemic would contribute greatly to an evening of chilled out relaxation.

Heads Up

Bucket List Gorgeous scenery.

Interesting wildlife.

Spirit of adventure. Stress-free. There are just not enough terms and phrases to describe all that comes with a trip to the Freme Rainforest Lodge, which is full of activities to keep even the busiest mind occupied. Easily accessible, this gateway to the Heart of Borneo is beyond that of something that is simply recommended, but should always be on the bucket list of anyone exploring Brunei.

FIND US: Jalan Batang Duri Tel: 673-2234280 qq FB: Freme Rainforest Lodge IG: @freme_rainforest_lodge 10

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Fun in the Sun CONTACT US:

Feel a need to escape the Ara Dinawan Island, hustle and bustle Kota Kinabalu, Sabah of city life to Tel: 6016-5798181 embrace what qq Mother Nature FB: Ara Dinawan Island has to offer from IG: @aradinawanisland the comforts of a home instead of a tent? Allow us to help by saying that Ara Dinawan Island – Malaysia’s first Island Glamping destination – is only 30 minutes away from Kota Kinabalu. Considering that there are other activities one can partake in the vicinity, such as paddle boarding, give it a thought and better yet, check it out!

The town of Kundasang in Sabah’s Ranau district is home to incredible scenery, and a plethora of places to stay at so you have time aplenty to just stare off into the distance where Mount Kinabalu stands tall and proud over its ecologically rich surroundings. From the Little Hut in Mesilou, Culvert View Lodge, and Umea Glamping Dome, to the Hounon Ridge Farm in Bundu Tuhan Village, and the cute pastel huts at Lagkau Sinisian, if ever there was a time to get away from dense urban areas, that time is now.

FIND US: FB: @culvertview @hounonridge IG: @binspiredabode @umeaglam.kundasang

Ethnic Explorer At the northern tip of Borneo Island where the Sulu Sea, and South China Sea meet lies the town of Kudat. Home to the Rungus ethnic group, this scenic locale makes for a great overnight stay at either the Maranjak or Bavanggazo longhouses should you feel the need for a natural escape while learning more about the locals. Better known for their skill in crafting gongs at the Sumangkap factory, the beautiful and natural surroundings inclusive of Kelambu Beach and the Gombizau CONTACT US: Honey Bee Farm, is worth the three hour drive from Kota Kinabalu.

Sabah Tourism Board Tel: 6088-212121 qq IG: @sabahtourism

Experience Tranquility

FIND US:

An area well known for some of Indonesia’s environmental heroes, the Graha Indah Mangrove Center in Balikpapan is a 150-acre peaceful experience of tall trees as you travel around via longboat, marveling in the splendour of all that surrounds you. With endangered Proboscis Monkeys in the wild, education and awareness play a large role in this haven of eco warriors.

Batu Ampar, Balikpapan Utara, East Kalimantan, 76127 Indonesia Tel: 62813-50371500 qq FB: Mangrove Center Balikpapan

Credit: Adrian Photography

Size Matters

Neon Serenity Illuminating the pedestrian bridge and parliament FIND US: building, this Trip Advisor Jalan Main Bazaar, recommendation Bandaraya 93000, for visitors Kuching, Sarawak makes for a nice qq spectacle. The FB: Waterfront light show is Kuching entertaining with its fountains, floodlights, video, fire and music against the backdrop of the story that is Sarawak. A great night scene to chill out to.

Credit: @info_balikpapan

FIND US: 94500 Lundu, Sarawak Tel: 6082-735144 qq FB: Gunung Gading National Park

Home to the largest flower in the world, Rafflesia, the Gunung Gading National Park is a fun hiking expedition locale for the adventurous nature lover. A two-hour drive from Kuching there is a range of attractions from trekking trails, bathing pools, waterfalls and clear jungle streams. If Kuching is where you have set up your base, then you also have the option of visiting the Bako, and Semenggoh National Parks too.

Really, visitors are spoilt for choice here.

Life’s a Beach When in a tropical paradise a stop at the beach is something that should always be on the itinerary, and Kalimantan is spoilt for choice.

Locales inclusive of Lamaru, Kemala, and Melawai Beach, as well as the hidden Setapak Beach are just a few notable mentions among a list so plentiful there just isn’t enough space to type them all. So go on and get some sand between those toes!

FIND US ALL ON TRIP ADVISOR!

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

11

biG feature

SHY FINDS

finds

Tibetan Bowl Meditation

INTAN Finds

BiG FINDS AROUND BRUNEI In the BiG office, quarterly brainstorming sessions typically result in a bunch of us shouting out ideas. Our overzealous researching of all things Brunei typically results in a minefield of finds – from art to music to food to products to people – that hit our radar. Sadly, not all of these fantastic finds make the cut, and so we thought for this issue, it’d be fun to shine a spotlight on what caught our eyes this quarter.

Without further ado, read on for our BiG Finds Around Brunei!

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

KOD22

A proper punk rock band in Brunei? I have to thank my music-crazy husband for introducing me to this threepiece punk group. They’ve got completely original songs that range from croons (Sayang Abang Lai) to anthems of RAEG (their song Anti-Rape, a perfectly rage-worthy topic) to frenetic beats against satirical lyrics (Lagu Orang Sanang). Listening to these guys actually takes me back to a time when people wore a devil-may-care attitude and music that came out of the radio was fresh, thrilling and above all, unapologetic (90’s represent – also, ignore me: I’m old). At a time when finding original music involves scouring through the recesses of the Internet for a white elephant, it’s truly fantastic to find one in your home town. qqqq Follow them on Instagram (@_kod22_) or check out their YouTube channel (Kod 22).

AJ FINDS

Vanessa’s Mighty Trio Jam AJ and her husband are food-conscious, superfood eaters, and once on a supermarket trip stumbled upon an aisle featuring locally made jams. The Mighty Trio Jam caught their eye because a) it had turmeric in it and b) turmeric is a superfood and c) who would put turmeric in jam? The 100% natural jam turned out to be a great buy because it was absolutely delicious and didn’t taste like turmeric (it is a truth universally acknowledged that superfood tastes so much better when it doesn’t taste like superfood). Vanessa’s Jam is from Brunei and has plenty of other types of nutritious jams, ranging from Nangka jam to Coconut Surprise, and AJ’s out to try them all. qqqq Grab a jar at Supasave Gadong and Seria, Hua Ho, Radisson Hotel Brunei and the BWN store or follow them on Instagram (@vanessasjam.bn).

In the office, we’ve all got our thing. Our Assistant Editor Shy’s thing, among many other things, is finding peace and tranquillity while doing absolutely nothing.

Which is why the idea of someone banging on a bowl to transmit the right sound frequency in a low impact class that involves 45 minutes of lying down would appeal greatly to her. We jest, but honestly, this guided meditation has been proven as a way of easing you into a state of deep relaxation, and this is perfect for those who struggle with sleep, anxiety and restlessness, or those who just need to take a dang break – and that’s no laughing matter at all. qqqq Get your sound healing vibes on and check them out on Instagram (@lifeflowyoga.bn).

AQILAH FINDS

Khraftonite

AQILAH FINDS

Heartbead Jewellery Aqilah and her sisters bring a whole new meaning to the word ‘Sister Power’ – they have such a sibling bond that they willingly do things together, cook things together, watch things together, shop for things together, and so it’s not at all surprising that Aqilah’s BiG find this quarter has to do with her sisters. It was her sister who discovered Heartbead jewelry – a brand that creates, sources and crafts beautiful minimalist jewelry, and loving the simplicity of the elegant designs, the sisters went to the Heartbead shop (don’t worry, they sell online too!) to each buy their own unique charm bracelet, which they’re all sporting on their wrists today.

Sisterly love bond aside, Heartbead offers some truly breath taking pieces that make perfect gifts for loved ones (or yourself!). qqqq Check them out on Instagram (@heartbead), go to their website (www. shopheartbead.com) or just visit their shop located at Little Soho in Batu Bersurat.

SHY FINDS

The Frame Shop Shy’s reasoning here is simple (and probably has a lot to do with the influence from our sister company, WaMa Designs): everyone has a feature wall gallery in their house nowadays. Just about anything arty, meaningful or just plain pretty can be framed, and the selection of said frame makes or breaks the entire thing.

The Frame Shop in Kuala Belait makes customisable picture frames for all of your framing needs, and their designs are elegant creations that doesn’t take away from the beauty of the subject but rather enhances it! We are fully ready to embrace the idea of having a wall gallery in 2021, and we are absolutely going to The Frame Shop to get started. qqqq Check them out on Instagram (@theframeshop.bn).

So very khrafty!

Regrettably not very skilled in the art of embroidery herself, Aqilah’s shortcomings in this craft led her to Khraftonite when looking for a personalised embroidery gift for a friend’s birthday.

These are beautiful and customised embroidered pieces ranging from memorable quotes and passages to flowers in bloom to an embroidered likeness of your face!

Embroider clothing or a bag or frame it and gift it to a friend (or yourself!)

– and they even have keychains! qqqq Follow them on Instagram (@khraftonite) for more details!

AJ FINDS

Borneo Ghost Stories The lovely people at BiG have a weird fascination with horror, and when Borneo Ghost Stories vol 4

by Dr Aammton Alias (full disclosure: we at BiG are big fans of Dr Aammton and fully recommend his children’s book, Riki and the Dream Seed) came out, AJ didn’t waste time in placing an order. Having read the first three volumes of this popular collection of short and horrifying stories, AJ knew what to expect when she started on the first page: chills and more chills! Pick it up, get scared, and support your local creative writing community while you’re at it! qqqq Head over to Nollybook or to their website (nollybook.com) to grab yourself a copy!

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

13

scoop

Sealed With Love If you’re one of the sentimental few who prefers the merits of the handwritten word over anything else, then Communique Enterprise has the goods to make your letters flourish beyond words. The days of scrolling through Pinterest and lusting over wax stamps are officially past us with Communique Enterprise’s generous selection of customizable wax stamps and wax sticks. From the handle (wood or steel) down to the design (yes, you can submit your own designs to be engraved!), the choice is yours. But the fun doesn’t stop there—start your own collection of wax seals with every colour on the spectrum, available in stick form, bead form or glue-gun compatible form. And if you’re not sure where to get started, drop by their brand new shop at The Mall, Gadong, where you’ll find an array of affordable accessories to accompany your wax sealing experience such as melting furnaces, melting spoons and more.

BRB we’re off to send a letter or five! qq Unit BRS-31, 3rd Flr, The Mall, Gadong Open: 2:30pm-8:30pm (Tues-Fri) 11am-8:20pm (Sat-Sun) Tel: 673-8353398 (Whatsapp) IG: @communique.bn

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Ameilia Abdullah started off giving away her crochet crafts to her friends, which she learned how to do by watching YouTube tutorials while doing her degree in the UK back in 2011, until she ran out of friends to give them to! She began selling her cute creations as Krafted in 2017, although lately she’s only been accepting custom orders, and usually has bookmarks and keychains available for sale.

If you couldn’t tell by the cute animals she crafts, Ameilia is a huge animal lover which is probably why she has some deer, turtle and llama bookmarks as well as doll keychains available for sale. And understandably, the painfully adorable llama and turtle bookmarks are her bestsellers, and because the world is a better place because of cat lovers, her custom cat dolls are a big hit too!

And if you’re wondering about those extra great photos of her crafts on her IG feed, you can thank her husband Hafiz Mahmud (@guywithafuji on Instagram) for that! qq You can find Ameilia’s cute crafts at: The Krema Coffee Spg 88, #D31, Bgn Lim Eng Ming, Kg Kiulap Tel: 673-2230880

Cute Krafts Get Lost in RIMBA Here to show some love to the majestic wildlife of Peninsular and Borneo Malaysia and to help others do the same is RIMBA, a card game which doubles as a fun learning tool and family game. A clever acronym of Reptilia, Ikan, Mamalia, Burung and Amfibia, the name also aptly translates to forest in the Malay language! Featuring 30 Bornean animals, the tenacious team behind RIMBA worked alongside local conservationbased NGOs over the span of two years to come up with a card game that would raise awareness on the forest and its inhabitants, ecosystem services and wildlife conservation. With four different ways to play the cards, even proclaimed Queen of the Jungle, Jane Goodall, has her own deck of RIMBA cards. Also, if you haven’t watched their Don’t Rush Challenge video for World Biodiversity Day 2020, be forewarned: wholesome content ahead! qq Tel: 6017-3763519 (Whatsapp) W: www.rimba.com.my E: rimba@ecocentrictransitions.com IG: @rimbathecardgame

RB Dine and Fly Sheyenne Siah

I

f you had told me a year ago that I’d be boarding a plane on a flight to nowhere, I’d have told you to wipe the smudges off your crystal ball. But times have changed and so has the world, and in early September I was given the opportunity to board Royal Brunei’s Dine and Fly flight—the flight that caters to dreamers, wanderlusters and feel-good chasers at heart.

While only middle and window seats are occupied to ensure maximum viewability of the sights down below, tickets to RB’s Dine and Fly sell like hot cakes so be sure to book early and have your passports ready.

The passenger list is filled with the likes of parents and their excited children, birthday celebrants*, couples celebrating their anniversaries and work teams looking to change up their team-building activities. It feels like a joyous occasion from the moment you step on board and one can’t help but soak up the good vibes and thrills that often accompany the beginning of a vacation.

“If you look to your left, you’ll be able to see Tasek Merimbun…

According to folklore, the name Labi came from…” such is the enlightening commentary you’ll find aboard Royal Brunei’s Dine and Fly. The pilot manning our flight, Captain Julian, mentions that he’s put in hours of research to give passengers the full experience of enjoying the sights from 10,000 feet in the air. That’s some tour guide level dedication!

Airplane food often gets a bad rep but RB’s in-flight meals

by Royal Brunei Catering is an exception to the rule and gets a pass each time. We’re told that the airline changes up the menu frequently, taking in feedback to serve only the best of uniquely Bruneian local favourites.

I’ll be the first to admit that I had my misgivings about stepping foot on a plane (or even in an airport!) while travel restrictions are still watertight around the world, so feeling anxious was an understatement. But it was made clear from measures such as temperature checks, minimised physical contact, PPE gear and

a rigorous cabin disinfecting routine, that the health and safety of every single person, passengers and crew alike, is a priority held above all else.

Looking around at my fellow passengers, I decided to ask a few questions to find out what expectations people would have by coming on board a visionary flight. “We miss travelling and this is the closest we can get to doing it right now, so even if it’s just getting on an airplane and taking in the atmosphere, we’ll take it,” says a passenger.

“I’m actually supposed to be in Dubai right now and that’s the second flight I’ve had to put on hold this year. So I’m so glad Royal Brunei has decided to come up with the Dine & Fly as it helps alleviate the travel pangs even if just a little,” says another one.

It’s also a bonus point that we just so happen to be located on one of the largest islands in the world so spectacular views of rich greenery, prominent shorelines and blue waters can only be expected throughout the

flight, alongside sightings of landmarks like Mount Mulu and the awe-inspiring Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Bridge.

While the flight itself only lasts 85 minutes, the skip in your step and the warm glow you feel post-flight lasts for days on end. This is one joyride you won’t forget anytime soon.

Passengers looking to celebrate a loved one’s birthday can put in a request upon booking their tickets online for a special surprise up in the air. qqqq To book your tickets to RB’s Dine and Fly, head on to their website www.flyroyalbrunei.com/ brunei/en/dine-and-fly.

biG scoop

Start Your Own

Plant Collection Sheyenne Siah

I

f you follow hashtags like #CrazyPlantRichAsians, then you’ll know it’s not an understatement when we say that the plant community is absolutely blooming. Yes, you heard it! House plants are the new pets—and they require just as much tender loving care and attention. There’s just something about a touch of green in a room that coaxes a space to life and makes it cooler on the eyes. And if your Instagram feed is filled with the likes of monsteras and you’ve been wishing for a way

to bring the outdoors in with you, then the time has finally come for you to start your own indoor plant collection. Here’s how!

1

Know your space

First things first, where are you going to keep your evergrowing collection? (And take it from us, it will grow!). Knowing your indoor space is important as different plants thrive under different conditions so take into consideration your dimensions, the temperature, sunlight and air quality of the space.

2

Do your research

Now that you know where your new leafy babies are going to live, it’s time to do some research to pick the house plants that will grow best in your environment. Maybe you’ve got a mood board ready (depending on how far along your obsession has advanced! #nojudgment) or maybe you have an idea as to what kind of leaf shape tickles your fancy. Some research will help determine which plants have the best chances of growing under you, especially if you’re a beginner.

3

Start small

Now comes the fun part— shopping! *insert jazz fingers* With your newfound knowledge and a rough idea in mind, head to your nearest nursery and begin your selection process.

Succulents, cacti, begonias and ferns, flowering or non-flowering, the choices are endless and nature is your oyster. Tip: Make sure that the plant is healthy with signs of budding growth for better chances of success!

However, if you’re keeping in line with that zero waste lifestyle, spending money isn’t the only way

for you to start your collection.

Turn to the fellow plant-loving people in your life and very politely ask if you can snap off a branch, cut off a leaf or stem for you to take home and propagate on your own!

4

Soil Searching

When choosing your soil, any old soil from your front yard won’t do as outdoor soil may contain critters and soil-borne diseases detrimental to your precious new plants. We suggest a nutrient-packed potting mix best suited for indoor and potted plants which will nurture your new plants (take note that different mixes will do different things).

But if you choose to forgo soil altogether, substitutes like LECA, hydroponics and plant gel are your new best friends. Remember, the world is your jungle and you’re an explorer!

5

Think Out of the Pot

The plant kingdom is a complex one, both indoors and outdoors, so don’t be afraid to try out different innovations and expand the branches of your knowledge. Self-watering pots, self-sustaining planters, gardening tools you never even knew you needed, the list of new

things to learn and try goes on and on.

A BiG thanks to our good friends at Plant Erruption (@planterruption on Instagram), who recently hosted their first plant swap, for eagerly sharing their tips and pointers with us for this article. As for what to do on the flip side when your plants start drooping, “Plants also have their own love language, they don’t all like to be loved the same. So it’s okay to have plants dying, sometimes you can try again.

You don’t have to be great at it—as long as you love your plants enough and if you don’t give up on them, they will try their best to grow as well.” They said it best!

BRUNEI: Gadong’s Sunday Morning Market IG: @Rimba Garden Central IG: @Lamunin_Tropicals SABAH: FB: The Stone Shop FB: Easy Harvest IG: @happy_leaf_borneo SARAWAK: FB: Wen’s Garden FB: Heng Nursery IG: @plant.kuching

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biG scoop

Leather Artisans Born from the skilful hands of two leather enthusiasts in Kota Kinabalu, leather brand Prudent Jane adamantly and nostalgically defies today’s norms of modern crafting. As “artisans in love with the traditions, heritage, tools and artistry of a craft that goes back centuries”, every bag, clutch, wallet and accessory is painstakingly stitched by hand, a design feature that the duo prides themselves on. While a majority of their pieces revolve around bags, their love for leathercrafting extends far beyond and encompasses a wide variety of items from journal covers and laptop organisers to fashion accessories and spectacle cases. And in case you’re wondering, yes, they accept custom orders and yes, they ship worldwide. What a win! qqqqqq IG: @prudentjane.co Tel: 6012-8009543

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THE MODERN WOMAN’S DESIGNER A fashion graduate driven by vision, Wan Bainun has spent the last seven years making her mark in the Borneo fashion industry. If her name strikes a chord, you’ve probably seen her collections featured in exciting events such as Stockholm International Fashion Fair, International Digital Fashion Week and Borneo Fashion Week.

What began with Wan selling her collections through social media platforms eventually

transpired into the opening of Wan Bynun Boutique in 2016 where you can find ready-to-wear designs by Wan Bynun as well as other designers from ASEAN. We love to see designers supporting other designers!

Flaunting a “Modern meets Tradition” twist in her designs, Wan takes inspiration from the confidence and boldness of the cultured modern woman.

A designer after our own hearts, Wan Bainun is one to keep a lookout for.

qqqqqq 16, Grd Flr, China street, off Main Bazaar, 93000, Kuching Tel: 6010-9748100 (Whatsapp) IG: @wanbynun

Hello PaKat! The founders of the Miri Artisan Market have finally decided to induce that everyday Christmas feeling for creative souls and artisanal-lovers with a brick-andmortar store that opens its doors daily! What’s behind those doors, you ask? “Well, a bit of this. And quite a bit of that” is the quirky answer of the owners who decided to open the store as an extension of their art market (currently on hold due to the pandemic). The PaKat Store totes a “for the creatives, by the creatives” feel with an everchanging inventory of wares handcrafted by local and regional artisanal brands (and eventually professional art supplies!). But what exactly can you find in-store, we still hear you asking? Think along the lines of decorated Balinese umbrellas mixed in with some Peranakan ceramicware and local pua kumbu—throw in some lovely handpainted tiffins and you’ve got an idea!

Determined to provide a platform and space that inspires creatives, seasoned and budding, to embrace the arts further, the store also houses regular workshops and classes. Poetry, books, calligraphy, acrylics—if getting creative floats your boat, then so will this store. qqqqqq IG: @hello.pakat W: www.pakat.store E: hello@pakat.store

snapshot

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

There are a few places in Borneo to catch sight of a herd of majestic Borneo pygmy elephants, which can only be found on this island. Distinctive by their long tails that sometimes touch the ground and straighter tusks, the Borneo pygmy elephants are actually the smallest Asian elephant subspecies and are known as pygmy elephants due to their smaller size. But averaging at 8.2 – 9.8 feet, they are actually the largest mammal on Borneo island!

This photo was taken at the Danum Valley Conservation Area, which is located in Sabah closest to the city of Lahad Datu.

Craig Ansibin

feature

BORNEO to the

WORLD Give us five minutes, and we at BiG will be able to churn out at least twenty facts about Borneo that you probably didn’t know about. And that’s to a person living in Borneo. There was a time way back when (okay, in school in the UK in the 90’s) when I would say the word ‘Borneo’ and be greeted with blank stares. “The third largest island in the world!” I would exclaim. Nothing. “Monkeys with big noses!” Nada.

These days, I wouldn’t have jumped right into the fact that Borneo is the third largest island in the world (although it is, and this is a good fact to remember).

These days, I would have said, “This is where Henry Golding/James Wan/Wu Chun came from.”

There have been those who have paved the way: our arthouse homeboy from Tutong, Abdul Zainidi, who made it to Cannes and continues making

waves in the entertainment industry; Origin Artistic Management who launched the first Bruneian movie to make international cinemas, Yasmine, starring the fantastically talented Liyana Yus; a bevy of musicians from Zee Avi to Aziz Harun to Hurricane Honey; artists like Hui Fong Ng; models like Amber Chia; and athletes like Maul Mornie.

So in this issue of BiG, we highlight Borneans who have made an impact in the world, from a director who shoots A-listers in horror films to an A-lister himself. From a catwalk queen to a show stopping performer. From an entrepreneurial superstar to a celebrity fashion designer. Suffice to say there have been a lot of success and a lot of hard work done by our Bornean neighbours to put this island on the map – and I’m sad to say that I wasn’t able to give all of them love in this article.

BORNEO’S A-LISTER Henry Golding

Our Sarawakian native turned Hollywood A-Lister hit the ground running when he played the dreamy Nick Young in the wildly popular Crazy Rich Asians, and it seems like Henry Golding hasn’t stopped working. Ever since the movie propelled him into the limelight and every female’s (and male’s) Hottest Top Five list, he has gone on to work as the man in between Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively in A Simple Favor, the hottie with a heart of gold opposite Emilia Clarke in Last Christmas, and switching it up as a supervillain in Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen. And we would be remiss to not include Monsoon, a gorgeously made indie movie where he plays a man who returns to Vietnam for the first time in 30 years, reconnects with his estranged family and falls in love with a man.

With the pandemic forcing most of us to hit pause, it seems like Henry Golding still hasn’t taken a break.

You’ll be hearing his dulcet tones in Paramount Animation’s The Tiger’s Apprentice as the lead character Mr Hu - a talking tiger.

You’ll also see his action hero side as the titular character in Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe origins - a spin-off centered around the origin story of famous Asian superhero Snake Eyes, the most skilled fighter of G.I. Joe and a master of ninjitsu.

BORNEO’S HORROR KING James Wan

Another Kuching native, James Wan was raised in Australia and is a famous film producer, screenwriter and film director in Hollywood. You’ll know him best for the cult classic Saw and for directing spine-tingling horror movies like The Conjuring and Insidious, and producing Lights Out, Annabelle, The Curse of La Llorona, The Nun, among many others.

As fans of horror movies, especially Asian ones, we’d like to believe that his ability to come up with the most bonechilling scenes that stand out amongst other contemporary horror films can be attributed to his being Asian!

Lest you think the man’s shtick lays completely in terrifying us, he has also branched out to other genres. His latest blockbusters include Furious 7 from the Fast and Furious franchise, and Aquaman, starring Jason Momoa, and he promises his legion of fans that there’ll be an element of horror in the Aquaman sequel coming up in 2022.

BORNEO’S RUNWAY QUEEN Atikah Karim

We are obsessed with runway model Atikah Karim’s bone structure and glossy brown skin, and it seems like we’re not the only ones. This statuesque Sabahan, who is of Bajau ethnicity, won the Ford Models Supermodel of the World Malaysia at age 18, made the ballsy decision to move to New York to further her modelling career, and since then, has walked down the runways of New York and has modelled for the likes of Kenzo, Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs and Polo Ralph Lauren.

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biG feature

BORNEO’S SUPERHERO ANIMATOR Heriyanto Tio

Alita: Battle Angel, Wonder Woman 1984 and Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle under his belt, he still continues doing his superhero work making our fantasies come to life on screen. Heriyanto is currently based in London, where he continues bringing our fantasies to life working on shows such as The Midnight Sky, the second season of The Mandalorian, and Eternals.

Hailing from Pontianak, Kalimantan, you couldn’t find an animator in Borneo with a more impressive portfolio than Heriyanto Tio - a character and creature animator who graduated from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. With films like Avengers: Endgame,

Wu Chun

Wu Chun might be the starring man of any of his millions of fans’ fantasies, but in Brunei, we’re used to seeing him kicking back with the rest of the locals at Bake Culture, Roti Culture, WoMen Hair Salon, Fitness Zone and any of his other business establishments. But since his first shot to fame as a member of Taiwanese Mandopop boy band Fahrenheit, he’s still very much in the spotlight, appearing in a number of Taiwanese television series and films, and then a number of reality shows including Dad is Back with his daughter Nei Nei. He’s also a well-known cover model, appearing on the covers of esteemed magazines such as Esquire, Men’s Health Magazine, and GQ. Not one to turn his back on his country, he has also been heavily involved with many charity organisations in the Sultanate, and was presented with an Excellent Youth Award by His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei in 2018.

BORNEO’S SOULFUL SONGSTRESS Alena Murang

While some of us are barely in tune with our local instruments, Alena Murang has been trotting the globe with her sape’, creating awareness about this traditional lute of central Borneo through talks, workshops and performances. The Sarawakian beauty, who comes from Kelabit culture, is also all about promoting the ways of the Kelabit people and the preservation of Sarawak’s cultural heritage. Her latest single, Gitu’an (Stars), is sung in the Kelabit and Lun Bawang dialect, and explains how Kelabit beliefs are tied in the caring of Mother Nature.

BORNEO’S SHOWSTOPPER Fakhrul Razi Our Bruneian showstopper with a golden voice is a man who might have come from a normal childhood, but was very much born to be on stage.

People first took note of Fakhrul Razi when he sat down on the floor on the stage of the World Championships of Performing Arts and wowed the audience with his dulcet tones, and since then his career has him travelling between Kuala Lumpur, Indonesia and Brunei. You might have last seen him as one of the judges at Brunei’s local singing competition, Bintang Search, and you most definitely would have heard his powerhouse of a voice on the radio singing the soundtrack, Keris Sakti, in the latest movie of Malaysia’s iconic duo Upin & Ipin.

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BORNEO’S HOMEGROWN SUPERSTAR

And although we’ve seen him busy with his business enterprises here, advocating fitness and health, and giving much needed help to charity organisations around the country, he remains a busy global celebrity. Last year he was awarded the Best Breakthrough Artist at the Shanghai Television Festival for his first villainous role in Martial Universe, and that same year, became Hugo Boss’ Asian Brand Ambassador.

This year, he held a wedding ceremony with his long-time love and wife as part of a Chinese variety show, Before Wedding, which was telecast on Mango TV in March 2020.

BORNEO’S CELEBRITY FASHION DESIGNER

BORNEO’S BRAWLER Muhd ‘Irfan

Hj Abdul Razak

Harry Halim

Indonesian born and Paris based Harry Halim might have come from Pontianak, Kalimantan, but his designs have been seen on celebrities all over the world. With a showroom and studio in Los Angeles, Harry Halim is known for his edgy take on luxury fashion and first presented his collection to the world in Paris Fashion Week in 2011. Since then, his collection has been seen on celebrities like Cardi B, Bebe Rexha, Anggun, Teyana Taylor, Fantasia Barrino and Tiffany Hadish.

BORNEO’S WARRIOR QUEEN Ann Osman

Ann ‘Athena’ Osman might have retired from MMA in November 2017, but she has never stopped being Malaysia’s own warrior queen. Hailing from Sabah, the first pro female MMA fighter has competed in 10 MMA bouts from 2013 until she hung up her fighting gloves, and has been featured in international media such as New York Times and Al Jazeera, and was named TIME Magazine’s Next Generation Leader in 2014. She continues fighting the good fight today, as an entrepreneur and brand influencer, and raising her young son. She’s also set to show up on the silver screen, securing the lead role in upcoming supernatural and action movie ‘Best Served Cold’, which is being filmed in Kota Kinabalu.

Brunei boxer Muhd ‘Irfan, otherwise known as ‘The Brawler of Brunei’, is set to box his way into putting Brunei on the map. Set on his way to become Brunei’s first ever professional boxer, the young talent signed a deal to train under the legendary Jeff Mayweather, along with a contract with MCB International, setting him on the road to glory and making his country proud.

BORNEO’S FASHION MAVEN

Farhanna Pura It has been ten years since Farhanna Pura first began Na Forrér, at that time as a self-taught designer with a passion that needed to be scratched. Anyone in the Sultanate would be able to tell you frankly that fashion isn’t the easiest career choice here, but Farhanna has managed extremely well – coming up with inspirational bespoke tailored pieces that are inspired by the nation’s heritage yet possessing that edge that is uniquely Na Forrér. She has also been an inspiring force for our future fashion designers, putting Brunei on the map with her brand making appearances down the catwalk regionally and internationally, on platforms such as Fashion Valet, and most recently, in the May 2020 issue of British Vogue.

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Cosmic Legends

is sacred to the Kelabit people), and to own beads, which signifies wealth and status. “This is why the lyrics in my video is written in this way: our life is beads, our life is paddy, and we are our ancestors. We are people in the sky.”

The plan of the video went the way all pre-COVID 19 planning went: not quite the way they wanted it to.

A lockdown in April prevented them from shooting the video, but having promised her fans new music in July 2020, they changed the concept of their original video to a lyric video made by her cousin Max Jala, using an art form called generative art (where one uses code to create visuals). The background scenery came from footage of their kampong from the Kelabit Highlands, and once lockdown was lifted, they included footage of the band in a series of home videos using mobile phones and cameras.

As well as adapting the video due to constraints by the pandemic, Alena has had to also

Kelabit Culture

In Kelabit culture, there is a legend of a hero with extraordinary powers named Tuked Rini, who existed in a mystical time when people lived between the sky and the earth. It is said that Tuked Rini and his men – who had the ability to fly or morph into animals or plants – would battle powerful spirits and go on hunting expeditions, while their spouses would be harvesting rice and prepare a feast for their return.

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I

t is in learning this cosmic tale two years ago that inspired Sarawakian singer and first ever female professional sapé artiste Alena Murang and her cousin Joshua Moran to write the song Gitu’an.

“Even though now people don’t believe those kinds of stories and that our beliefs have changed, it’s still very much a part of our history.” Thematically, however, the strong sense of protecting and providing food for your family remains important to modern day Kelabits and many Dayak people. As is the women’s role in providing food through rice (rice

adapt to being still at home for the first time in a long time.

The artist misses travelling for music festivals (the last three summers, Alena performed in festivals in the US, Europe and Taiwan), but still finds herself thankful for the time off. She has spent this time working on a consulting project to do with native people in Sarawak, performing a show recently with guzheng musician Sara Heng, and taking time to collaborate with creative people in Kuala Lumpur. She also continues giving sapé lessons.

And of course, she remains focused on completing her upcoming album. Alena has always created music that marries a strong sense of culture with original music and lyrics. One of a few singles that will lead to a release of a new album, Gitu’an continues the tradition albeit with a different sound, something fans will definitely take notice of when she finally releases her latest album.

“Joshua and I have really been working the past four years on developing our sound and I think that this new album will show what that new sound is. It’s got influences from rock, a little nu metal, we got folk and ambient sounds – I find it hard to put it in a genre! And I’m really excited to share it with everybody.” qqqqqq W: www.alenamurang.com FB: @alenamurang IG: @alenamurang

Showcasing the

Beauty of Ethnically Diverse Women in Art I

n an age consumed by digital media and the new culture of over-processing images through filters and editing software, a piece of intricately produced cultural art is extremely refreshing on the eyes. The imagery of beautiful, ethnically diverse women of Malaysia should never be shunted through the process of photoshopping yet must retain the vibrancy of its culture – a fact that Malaysian Noor Sarah Mohamed Reza seems to be very attuned to.

Relatively new in Kuala Lumpur’s diverse art scene, Sarah arrived with an artistic style that is both vibrant and subtle in its effect. With a keen eye to detail, her art strips away the extraneous to focus on the intricacies of a traditional costume and the features of her beautiful women.

The 30-year old’s artistic skill has been evident since the tender age of four, but she only pursued her interest to pursue art as a career later on in life, after graduating with a BA (UNISA) degree in Communication and Media Management from Taylors University. It kicked off with her first freelance job in May 2018, where she was tasked to create illustrations for a to-be-published children’s book authored by renowned mental health activist Datin Sabrinah Morad.

Her artistic journey began in earnest from that promising beginning, and she then took the opportunity to exhibit and sell her artworks at places like the Amcorp Mall and Petaling Jaya.

With a style that is accessible, energetic and down-to-earth, her subject matters vary in accordance to her mood, which makes her artwork continuously fresh and unpredictable. Using mainly watercolour, acrylic and pastels, her portraits of ethnically diverse women of Malaysia is a prime example of her eyecatching talent. qqqq Check out more of Sarah’s works on her Instagram account @senisara.my.

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W

Dr Kathrina Daud, Author of The Fisherman King

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hen it comes to local authors, only one name truly springs to mind.

And rightfully so, as the sole Bruneian whose book has received the honour of being shortlisted in the yearly Epigram awards, Dr Kathrina Daud has set the bar for our local authors – and she has set that bar pretty dang high.

The book in question is The Fisherman King; a fantasy inspired by Bruneian history and mythology, and tells the story of an orphan named Lisan who grew up in Kampong Ayer, and who himself suspects to be descended from royalty.

Before the novel begins, Lisan had left the water village and his wife to find proof of his ancestry, and the story picks up with his return. Crown jewels, a snake god, and scuba dives down to shipwrecks ensue.

“This was the first novel I wrote after my PhD,” Kathrina explained. “It was the first novel I was able to write about Brunei while being based in Brunei. Previously, I had only ever been able to write about Brunei from a distance, as if I needed that physical space to allow for an imaginative space.”

“Despite being born and bred here, so many parts of Brunei are still a mystery to me, and The Fisherman King was a way of exploring some of those gaps, secrets and blurs.”

Author, Assistant Professor in Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), editor for Heartwrite Co. and all around aspiring champion for the local creative writing industry in Brunei, Kathrina first piqued our curiosity with a soulful passage about long-distance love that she penned called I Am A Bird. A few years ago she released The Halfling King – a short story rooted in local fantasy and mythology

(fun fact: The Halfling King was originally part of The Fisherman King, and was cut out from the book during the editing process but worked well as a standalone), and this year she finally gives us the full-length experience with The Fisherman King.

As glad as we are to read more of her words, she professes her natural medium to be the short story. “I like to start with a character and just let it play out naturally – which tends to be briefly. Plot is one of my biggest weaknesses as a writer, and it’s the facet of writing that I have to work at the hardest during the editing process. And yet a well-crafted, surprising, delicate, robust plot – something that grinds the narrative forward with some urgency – is one of the things I enjoy most as a reader.”

And the fact that we can enjoy, and continue to enjoy, Kathrina’s writing is also helped immensely by her two professions. It is the best of both worlds for an avid reader and author: Kathrina gets to read and write about reading for her academic and scholarly work, impart this knowledge to her readers, and it is work that is valued and then compensated with a regular salary. “Being an academic allows me the time to think, to read and rest – all of which are fundamental to my ability to write. It forces

me to keep learning, and it’s also fundamental to my ability to write anything worthwhile.”

Aside from educating her students and providing us with books that let our imagination roam in a distinctly Bruneian environment, Kathrina has also been busy coaxing aspiring local authors out of the shadows and into the limelight. In 2019 she was the Director of the first Tiny Lit Fest – a local literary festival aimed at bringing together writing, reading, and publishing communities in Brunei.

The festival comprised 15 micro-events organised by eight partners (namely The Creative Core BN, The Real Word BN, Creative Space Gallery, Creativate, B:Read, Little Bamboo, Engage Minds Learning and Heartwrite Co), and featured international writers,

workshops, masterclasses, publishers and writers dialogues, meet and greets, book launches and more, over the space of five days.

The Tiny Lit Fest is returning for its second run as part of the Brunei December Festival this year and will take place from 3rd to 13th December, and will feature 17 anchoring partners who are a part of the local literary ecosystem.

Follow them on Instagram (@thetinylitfest) for updates.

Kathrina hopes that the festival will continue to run for many years to come and keep growing, and is something she hopes will strengthen local literature by strengthening the networks and infrastructure needed to help local writing thrive.

“Writers don’t exist without readers, without publishers, printers, designers, booksellers, teachers, critics, scholars. All of us have a stake in local stories. Let’s take ownership of that.”

“There are more literary – including writing – communities these days, however if one wanted to reach out, community is always a good thing. How will local authors fare in the near future? I think they will fare well. I am excited to see the writing that is to come. I am greedy for it.”

The Fisherman King is coming soon! Pre-order it now through the Epigram Books website. For our readers in Singapore, it’ll be available in Kinokuniya in October. Until then, whet your appetite by picking up The Halfling King at local bookstores dBookHaus and Nollybook. qqqq Order The Fishman King at: https://shop. epigrambooks.sg/ collections/ebfptitles-1/products/thefisherman-king.

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advertorial

BiG x Biz Brunei A collaborative venture with Biz Brunei, BiG is happy to help shine a spotlight on promising entrepreneurial start-ups across all industries and segments of society.

A street art revolution Despite an artistic awakening of the acceptability of street art in the Sultanate back in 1999, it would still take roughly two decades before the accompanying social shift in societal attitudes would begin moving forward to its current day level. Always perceived as outsiders within the creative industry, it is no exaggeration to describe this pursuit as experiencing a revolution.

What was once considered messy vandalism has suddenly over a short duration of time accelerated at breakneck speed in its acceptance nationwide.

Institutions and businesses within

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the education, finance, health, telecommunications, health, fitness, and retail industries, and even government agencies have sought practitioners to produce incredibly detailed and vibrant mural artworks. In addition to representing the stance clientele wish to convey, it simultaneously highlights the amazing skill these artists possess.

Enter the Guerilla Artchitects – a grouping of six talented personas, led by Arif Suhaimi, whose creations have been popping up all over the place in both a public and private capacity. Engaged in this endeavor since their teenage

years, everyone is self-taught with years of practice under their belts alongside their spray cans as they produce largescale murals.

Based at the Melabau Commercial Complex the team hosts exhibitions of which their last saw 34 pieces sold, and involved participation from Katok Secondary School students where one of the members teaches.

In tribute to old school street artists, homage is paid to pioneers including Madsuki @ Tycal who

coined the group’s name in the late 90s, as well as Stain’s founder, Fairuz Zabady, who laid the foundation for Brunei’s first commercial street art studio. With private commissions sought after and involvement in the Belait District’s revitalization plan, the future of this art form is destined to be a colourful one.

Taking a risk to close the loop

Pushing Brunei’s boundaries as a greenfriendly haven was given a boost when a Biological Science, and a Geoscience student crossed paths in 2014, resulting in the Environmental Evolution of national capability through the founding of EnEvo the following year. Anxious to provide more local innovative solutions toward ‘closing the gap’ - terminology used to describe the transformation of a recyclable material (paper) into a marketable product (toilet tissue rolls), Syidah Kariya and Tan Thiam Kui amassed enough capital to begin their pioneer project for the local recycling industry.

“There were of course many questions about how we would get the funds, equipment, expertise and marketing to pull of this project. But the bottom line

was Brunei needed more of these solutions,” Syidah states.

By 2016, EnEvo acquired an additional team member, a van, and a 21 tonne paper mill for their Tutong-based Industrial Unit capable of blending three tonnes of paper daily, which translates to 3,000 packs of 10-pack rolls. Taking into account that recycling just one tonne of paper saves 17 trees, 4,000 kilowatts of energy and 7,000 gallons of water – none of us have to be mathematical geniuses to see how environmentally friendly this endeavor is. It comes with a hefty price tag however and the team has had to set its sights on long-term returns over shortterm profits to keep the business feasible. Eventually crunch time arrived, and at 4pm on the first day of 2020 the first line of jumbo toilet rolls was produced.

With the advent of Covid-19 causing a host of problems, the team has pushed on regardless and currently processes two tonnes as they strive to hit their goal of “doing our part to protect Brunei’s environment”.

A definition of ‘Quiet Persistence’ Considering the popularity and increasingly widespread nature of healthier food-related alternatives to our collective diets, it is hard to believe that the much-loved Mr Baker’s pioneering attempts almost came to a fateful end early in its history. With an initial foray into the local market in 2008 when he began renting a retail space, its founder Eric Pui was beset by a number of problems inclusive of business licensing approval and a lack of market

demand and awareness of his healthier products.

A well-educated man who developed an appreciation for healthier breads, and received never ending support from his father, wanted little more than to make a positive contribution to society. Armed with a decent start-up capital, a persistent attitude and a refusal to give up, he was close to broke just two years later when suddenly everything spun 180 degrees with the setting up of a kiosk

at the Jerudong Park Medical Centre. This sparked a shift in customer attitudes that resulted in higher volumes of human traffic to his Batu Bersuratbased storefront, and an uptick in sales. Taking advantage of this change in fortune, he opened a second bakery in the form of a diner-styled eatery, a first of its kind combination in the local market.

With an increase in credibility came opportunities. An invitation to open an outlet

at the Jerudong International School netted him several partnerships to supply a number of businesses nationwide. Staying ahead of the curve the brand today now offers a more expansive menu of meals and beverages. From an ideal to reality, Eric Pui, takes comfort in his journey, quoting a Chinese proverb that states “No one who can rise before dawn 360 days a year fails to make his family rich”.

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J A K A R TA

Jaunt

It’s been a good twenty years since I last visited Jakarta, the metropolis capital of neighbouring Indonesia, and it was high time that I returned to rekindle my love affair with one of Southeast Asia’s most beguiling cities. Arriving early one evening in February, I was treated to dramatic views of the bustling city from the air, including a glimpse of Capital Place – one of the latest mixed development complexes in South Jakarta. This award-winning mixed development was designed by no other than the legendary starchitect, the late Cesar Pelli, and at its heart is the all-suite hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta.

Wan Zainal Abidin Four Seasons Jakarta

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whole new level of sophistication awaits travelers at this urban resort – one of the latest additions to Jakarta’s roster of high-end accommodations. From Bill Bensley’s enviable landscaping to Alexandra Champalimaud’s delicate interior design and the thoughtfully curated collection of artwork lining the great halls of the hotel from the main lobby all the way to the suites and beyond, everything spells personalised luxury!

With entry level rooms starting at a spacious 62 square metres, the hotel’s 125 suites are the largest in Jakarta, giving ample space to relax, explore, and celebrate. My suite featured a separate sleeping area and a huge walk-in closet which

housed a good-sized bathroom and toilet, all kitted out with mod cons that you’d expect with a brand like Four Seasons.

The hotel’s artistic inspiration extends to the hotel’s culinary team and master mixologists, who continue to be on top of their game when it comes to creating scrumptious delicacies and innovative drinks to suit any palate. Host to some of Jakarta’s most prestigious events since its opening, the hotel stands ready with a team of expert event organisers, supported by an army of passionate chefs and staff, ready to cater to any kind of MICE needs including high society soirées, power business meetings and glamorous weddings.

When I choose a hotel, one of the most important things for me to consider is the food – a factor I consider as imperative as room size, thread counts and bathroom amenities. To my delight, the hotel’s cuisine is as memorable as the stunning designs of its restaurants. Breakfast is served at Palm Court – a casual all-day dining restaurant that serves Western and Indonesian fare. Alto, the hotel’s

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1. The beautiful Palm Court 2. Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta 3. Panoramic views of downtown Jakarta

at Alto 4. An army of passionate chefs and staff ready to attend to any type of event 5. The cosy living area in the suite 6. The entrance to Palm Court, that serves all day dining 7. The spacious suite features a separate sleeping area

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL JAKARTA Capital Place, Jalan Jend. Gatot Subroto Kav 18, Kuningan Barat, JAKARTA Tel: 62 (21) 22771888

signature Italian restaurant, presents a complete rethinking of the traditional Italian restaurant with modern interpretations of classic recipes that burst with flavour yet is refined in presentation. The meals here were so good that I actually had two of my dinners at Alto during my stay, and the outdoor terrace where you can enjoy postprandial drinks with dazzling panoramic views of downtown Jakarta would certainly take some beating.

And of course, there is the pretty La Patisserie – a modern take of the French tea salon resplendent with art-deco inspired furniture and details – where you can stock up on delectable gifts to bring home to loved ones. Coffee bar Dolcetto is there for your afternoon pick-me-ups, and for night caps venture onwards to Nautilus Bar – where I was serenaded by talented youngsters belting out my personal Indonesian jazz favourites every night during my short stay!

Of course like any bustling metropolis, there are plenty of dining options outside of the hotel as well. I had the chance to sample from plenty of trendy dining options that line the streets of Senopati, located just a stone’s throw away from the hotel. Must-visits include Gioi for their crispy duck with ‘sambal mentah’, and the clublike Pantja where you can savour delicious Italianinspired sharing platters while live DJs spin laidback lounge music nightly. And for Indonesian cuisine aficionados, a trip to Remboelan at Grand Plaza Indonesia will offer you the true taste of Indonesia to fuel you up mid-shopping.

And no getaway to Jakarta would be complete without a visit to a spa, and we urge you to sample world-renowned Indonesian spa therapies at the hotel’s spa. With spacious spa suites complete with high-tech healing tubs, this is the perfect place to hit your pause button before indulging in some shopping or soaking in some of the Jakarta culture that begs to be discovered.

On the days when I didn’t feel like braving the notorious Jakarta traffic, it was a delight to simply sit in my expansive suite with a cup of tea in hand, soaking in the views of the city while plotting my next visit to discover more of this surprisingly bold and glamorous city.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide 33

Know Your

Coffee C

offee, it’s a science. The most delicious cup of science mankind will ever know. I may be exaggerating, but if you love yourself a good cup of joe, and you’re clueless like me, then you most likely grab a cup of coffee at your nearest coffee shop and slurp away without much thought about what’s in it!

appetite

Well, the truth is, it’s the same but different – an added ingredient here, a bit more steamed milk there, some frothy milk here, chocolate powder there, and you’ve got a variety of caffeine beverages to appeal to different levels of coffee drinkers.

Affogato

We at BiG thought it would be fun to see what goes into these cups of caffeine goodness! Featuring the classics you’ll find at any good coffee shop, let us present to you the BiG Coffee Chart!

VANILLA ICE CREAM

Cappuccino

ESPRESSO

CHOCOLATE POWDER

Flat White

MILK FOAM

STEAMED MILK

STEAMED MILK

ESPRESSO

ESPRESSO

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Mocha

Lat te

STEAMED MILK

MILK FOAM

HOT CHOCOLATE

STEAMED MILK

ESPRESSO

ESPRESSO

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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biG appetite

eat , drink

Coffee

by Dil

Brunei

Pattaya Restaurant While Pattaya Restaurant doesn’t exactly reside on a beachfront in Thailand, it does sit on the tranquil shores of the Brunei River, which in our opinion, is just as relaxing.

Located along the scenic Kota Batu road, some of you may have already tried the restaurant’s well-known Thai cuisine—and for those of you who haven’t, we’re excited for your first time. With a generous selection of classic and not-soclassic Thai dishes, we especially recommend the mushroom tom yum with coconut milk for a burst of umami, washed down with Tub Thim Grob, the iconic ruby water chestnut dessert for an instant cooling down of the tongue.

Spg 302, Jln Kota Batu, Sungai Lampai, BSB Tel: 673-2241721 / 8743966 Open daily: 10am-10pm (2pm-10pm on Fridays) IG: @pattaya_thaifood_bn

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Olie’s Café A ketogenic diet is not for the faint of heart. All the good things (meaning carbs like bread, rice and noodles) are taken out, but this is in itself a good thing, because these carbs are replaced with fats that puts your body in ketosis which causes it to burn fats for fuel, which means this is a great way to lose some weight and reduce blood sugar.

You could probably find a smattering of keto-friendly restaurants around Brunei.

Probably just a handful of them could count as actually worth visiting a second time. Go to a lovely little lane in Seria town and you’ll probably find yourself wandering into a little restaurant called Olie’s Café, and thankfully, Olie’s is one of the good ones.

Warm wooden floor pair with warm blue walls and is made better with warm service. Olie’s provides a

small but entirely diverse menu with hearty offerings that come in both regular and keto versions, and sometimes gluten-free! We went for the Spicy Aglio Olio, Tomato and Basil Pasta, Pandan Nasi Lemak and Chicken Curry with Bluepea Rice – which we washed down with coffee beverages coming from a pretty impressive menu of caffeine options.

There was also a range of keto-friendly desserts that look mouth-watering enough to tempt even the most resistant of keto believers. Perfectly paired with a cup of joe.

#2, 1st Flr, Lot 10, Jln Sultan Omar Ali, Seria Open daily: 10am-10pm (10am12pm, 2pm-8pm on Fri) Tel: 673-8788216 IG: @oliescafe

Restaurants amid residential zones is something Bruneians are pretty used to by now but amid a sea of Nasi Katok is Coffee by Dil, which serves pretty good coffee and dessert!

Perhaps ‘pretty good’ is putting it pretty mildly. Sheikh Fadillah and his wife put their considerable skills with coffee and dessert making to good use and opened up the patio of their home to customers looking for delicious cake and good coffee.

They are so popular, in fact, that you should reserve a table before heading over there!

We had zero foresight when we first visited but Sheikh Fadillah prepared another table for us so we could order a cup of coffee (chosen from a big selection of coffee beans recommended by the barista) and some cake. The coffee – stupendous. The cakes?

Rose Lychee (a winner), Burnt Cheesecake (this is a popular item and there’s a good reason why), Fruit Pavlova (so good), and a no-bake cheesecake (zero regrets).

Coffee by Dil also offers custom orders for events and dietary requirements, ranging from seasonal fruit offerings such as the Cempedak Cake to the diet-friendly Vegan Matcha Cheesecake.

#15, Spg 68, Jln 82, Skim Perumahan Rimba, Brunei Open daily: 10am-6pm Tel: 673-8298786 (Whatsapp only) IG: @dilcoffeetrail

- Times square (2343001) - OLD berakas (8803183) - NEW BERAKAS (2340559) - SENGKURONG (2676111)

DELIVERY AVAILABLE!

Call your closest branch now or order online via casbahlondonkebab

casbahlondonkebab

biG appetite

GUAC

NON HALAL

Positioned as a home-based breakfast cafe, GUAC has just recently reopened in a new space. With a nod towards the cosy vibes that has become part of GUAC’s brand identity, the cafe is now situated in an airy, white detached house, surrounded by lush greenery.

The main draw here, however, is the delicious meals available at eye-poppingly reasonable prices – and GUAC is as ever-unwavering in satisfying its hordes of ardent fans.

The cafe offers both Western and Asian dishes, with a fusion twist that pays homage towards beloved local flavours.

Pork aficionados will truly appreciate the menu here, with some of the more popular items being the roasted pork nasi lemak, the claypot pork briyani, and the babi guling with nasi lawar.

If pork dishes are not for you, GUAC’s menu is extensive enough to have something for almost anyone, including customisable pancake and omelette options, as well as desserts for those with a sweet tooth.

No. 69, Lorong Ong Guan Poh 1, Jln Rubber Barat, 93400 Kuching, Open daily 9am-4pm FB: @guac.kch IG: @guac_kch

NON HALAL

DimDim DimSum Opened since 2018, DimDim DimSum is gradually garnering the attention as one of the few places in Kuching offering dimsum which are freshlyhandmade in-house. There is a huge emphasis on using wholesome and fresh ingredients in the food served at DimDim, and no MSG is used at all.

Some must-tries at DimDim include the ubiquitous siu mai, which on the first bite was bursting with flavour – not boring at all! The har gao which is often the bar by which a dimsum place is judged – is beautifully wrapped and filled with a generous portion of shrimp.

Other noteworthy items on the menu include the popular shrimp ball with ham and the unassuming but deeply-satisfying home-made beef balls.

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eat , drink Sarawak

The Irene Chan proprietors that run the restaurant have travelled extensively in order to improve on what they can offer, and that commitment is truly reflected in the standard of the food served here.

No. 16, Milan Square Block 11, Jln Wan Alwi, Muara Tebas Land District, 93350 Kuching Open: 8am-4pm (closed Wednesdays) Tel: 6019-8196060 FB: @dimdimdimsumrestaurant

VinaBread & Coffee It’s always nice coming home from a holiday and being able to find the food you tried and liked on your trip locally. For those who have tasted authentic Vietnamese food in Vietnam (arguably some of the best food in the world) you’ll be glad to find this little gem of a makan place offering a taste of Vietnam in the small corner of Kolombong Industrial Park, off Kota Kinabalu.

VinaBread & Coffee founded in 2014

by Mr. Yek and his wife, Tina, is a small and unassuming coffee shop which takes a little bit of effort to locate. The menu is simple, focusing mainly on banh mi, banh canh, pho ap chao (sauteed beef and vegetables over crisp pho noodles) and of course, the signature ca phe Viet - Vietnamese coffee.

For non-coffee lovers, VinaBread’s bestseller would be the homemade banh mi or

Vietnamese baguette that comes with a wide variety of fillings from minced chicken and canned sardines to fried egg and chicken ham.

If the banh mi doesn’t float your boat, you can always go for a good old noodle dish either in a broth or stir-fried. The banh canh is a thick and stubby Vietnamese noodle made of tapioca flour and rice, the Vietnamese version of our beloved loh see fun and an absolute joy to slurp whilst enjoying your soup.

Blk F, Lot 6, Ruang Buah Duku Satu, 88450 Kota Kinabalu Open daily: 6am-5pm (Mon-Sat), 7am-3pm (Sun) Tel: 6088-389639 FB: Vina Bread & Coffee

eat , drink

Shang Palace, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa

Chinese cuisines are some of the most popular and widely appreciated cuisines in the world. Aiming to serve only the best evergreen Chinese delights in town, Shang Palace of Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa offers a casual space for you and your family to enjoy a Chinese banquet.

Situated at the Garden Level of Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, Shang Palace overlooks the evergreen Kinabalu garden and the South China Sea. Its interiors are enhanced with traditional oriental decors and Chinese motifs.

The restaurant is renowned for its delectable dim sum, available for breakfast and lunch, as well as its mouth-watering choice of Cantonese and Chinese fare. Items on the menu range from the Deep Fried Yam Ring with Diced Chicken and Cashew Nuts, Tartar Prawn Meat with Cheese, Braised Dried Scallop and Abalone Mushroom, as well as the Deepfried Soft Shell Crab with Salt and Pepper.

Other notable new dishes include the crispy Wok-fried Nestum Cereal Prawns, Deep-fried Squid with Salt and Pepper, Steamed Beancurd with Egg, Braised Dried Scallop and ‘Chi Bau Ku’ with Spinach, Sauteed Beancurd and Eggplant Cooked with Preserved Vegetables and the Wok-fried Udon Noodle with Black Pepper and Seafood.

To wash down the fancy feast, you may have the Chilled Herbal Jelly with Honey which is known to have a cooling effect on the body – especially yummy during a hot sweltering day. Shang Palace can accommodate private dinner functions for up to 138 persons. Two private dining rooms for 10 and 20 persons are also available.

S a b a h Nova Renata

October Coffee House Before lifestyle cafes became an ‘in’ thing in KK, October Coffee House was one of the pioneering ones, with the opening of its first branch at The Peak Vista, Tanjung Lipat. Owned and managed by a Korean family, October Coffee House is a quaint café that adopts the interior design concept of an alpine cottage.

On cold rainy days, you could actually pretend that you’re chilling out at Lake Tekapo in New Zealand. Well, almost.

October Coffee House does just what its name denotes - it serves coffee, toasts, cakes and other desserts. Peak hour usually starts around 3pm and weekends are especially busy. Otherwise, with the excellent internet connection and relatively quiet atmosphere, October Coffee House is a great venue to have a date with your laptop and finish your writing assignment. Its signature offering is the French Toast (Fruite), topped

with slices of fresh fruits, glazed with maple syrup and sprinkled with castor sugar, sunflower seeds and raisins.

Other favourites include the Korean Street Sandwich, Scones, Green Tea Latte, as well as their signature handdrip coffee. So far, the coffee house has quite an extensive selection of hot beverages

and only a handful of cakes and dessert options to choose from.

13, Lorong Dewan, Pusat Bandar, 88000 Kota Kinabalu Open daily: 10.30am-12am Tel: 6088-277396 FB: October Coffee House IG: @octobercoffeehouse

20 Jln Aru, Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu Open daily: 11.30am-2.30pm/6.30pm-10.30pm (MonSat), 10am-2.30pm (Sun and public hol) Tel: 6088-327940 W: www.shangri-la.com/kotakinabalu/tanjungaruresort/dining/restaurants/shang-palace/ IG: @shangrilatah

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39

biG listings

Brunei

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

All Seasons Restaurant 17 1st Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2338068) Aminah Arif 2 & 3 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 2236198) – Call for other branches Aneka Rasa Blk A #16 & 17 Grd & 1st Flr Bgn Begawan Pehin Dato Hj Mohd Yussof, Kg Kiulap (673 2231728) Anjung Layar Luncur (Nur Wanita Serasa Branch) Simpang 287, Pantai Serasa (673 2771879)

Bali Pit-Stop 15 &16, Spg 150 Grd Floor, Block A Bangunan Habza, Kiulap (673 7209992) Chatterbox Kopitiam 2 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbullah 2, Gadong (673 8201212) Eco Dermaga Kafé 2 Building, Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 7295999) Farmbasket Snack Bar A1, Grd Flr Blk A, Urairah Complex, Spg 88, Kiulap (673 2234666) – Call for other branches Gurkha Palace 47 Jalan Bunga Melor, Seria Town (673 3221474) Gratitude Café Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 2341123) Great Taste Restaurant Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2233913) Happy Dean Restaurant No 3, Grd Flr, Zainuddin Complex, Spg 11, Anggerek Desa, Berakas A (673 2340885) – Call for other branches Impian Rasa Restaurant #5 Bgn Pg Hjh Rafiah Spg 607 Jln Jangsak, Gadong (673 2653858) – Call for other branches Iron Chef Unit 5&6, Lvl 1, HuaHo Manggis Mall (673 2338888)

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

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

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

Kitaro #2 Yong Siong Hai Building, Gadong (673 7323377 | 2457373)

Babu’s Kitchen C44 Blk C Grd Flr Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 2457868)

La Mee #1B & 1c Grd Flr Spg 411-12, Jln Kiarong

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY

(673 2430113) Lee Loi Fatt Blk A #7 Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 2342384) – Call for other branches Mangrove Paradise Resort Spg 912 Kg Sungai Belukut, Jln Kota Batu (673 2786868) MY Favoureat Restaurant 9 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2232828) MyTown Eating House Grd Flr The Crown Princess Complex, Jalan Tutong (673 2241880) Nyonya 3 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbollah, Gadong (673 2447090) Old Time Kopitiam G2 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Ibrahim, Kg Menglait (673 244 282) PappaRich Blk G Grd Flr Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 2432333) Pho Hoa Restaurant #6 Grd Flr Blk B Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kg Kiulap (673 2236218) Rice Bowl 72 T.C.Y Building, Batu Bersurat (673 8630665)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sapphira Cake House 3 Grd Flr Seri Anigma, Kiulap (673 2232021)

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

Seasons Restaurant Lvl 2 The Centrepoint, Gadong (673 2422291)

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.

Seafood Palace #1, 2 & 3 Blk B An-Nuha Building, Kg Tanjung Bunut (673 2671299) Seaworld Neptune 8 Spg 791, Jerudong (673 2612613) Sate House Unit B9, Block B, Setia Kenangan II, Spg.150, Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan

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

biG listings

THE BEAUTY IN PASTA (673 2231017) Soto Pabo #9A Spg 222, Kg Pintu Malim (673 8686388) Sulbingsoo Korean Dessert Cafe Unit B7, Grd Flr, Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2234271) SPICY CURRY & WRAPS FROM ARABIC TO INDIAN CUISINE, CHECK OUT THESE RESTAURANTS IF YOU LIKE A SPICY KICK TO YOUR MEALS. Sugar ‘n’ Spice Unit B1, Grd Flr, Purnama Complex, Kiulap (673 2332493 / 8810493) Amsarra Shawarma Grd Flr Block A, 1Riverside, Jalan Gadong (673 7318545) Armash Restaurant No 5, Grd Flr, Bangunan Tian & Chuan, Kg. Kiulap (673 2672574) – Call for other branches Bombay Palace Restaurant #9 Grd & 1st Flr Blk B Bgn Pg Mainuddin & Anak2, Batu Bersurat (673 2427313) C’Fu Curry House Restaurant Spg 103 #5 & 6 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Md Salleh, Gadong (673 2457000) Delhi Darbar Restaurant & Catering Spg 38 Jln Jerudong (673 2672826) Le Taj 2-3 2nd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 2238996) Lotus Family Restaurant 27B Grd Flr Delima Jaya Complex, Berakas (673 2342049) Rajah’s Restaurant 3 Grd Flr Blk A Bangunan PAP Umi Kalthum, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2240379) Saffron Restaurant 8 Blk C Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 2235888)

Spices Restaurant #1 Grd Flr Blk A Aman Complex, Jln Muara (673 2330081) Ya Nur Restaurant #6 & #7, 1st Flr, Kompleks Hj Tahir 2, Gadong (673 8719986) Zaika Restaurant A4 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 3347430) WESTERN FOOD ITALIAN PIZZAS, AMERICAN STEAKS AND BURGERS, BRITISH COTTAGE PIES – WE LIST DOWN THE RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE THE BEST FROM THE WEST. Bello Café L1/12 Seri Kiulap Mall, Kiulap (673 2233989) – Call for other branches

We believe that the love for spaghetti is a universal language and if you’ve always fantasized having fresh pasta at your disposal but could never find the time (or skills, if we’re completely honest) to make your own, then gather round, friends, because Bellise was made for hopeless pasta romantics like us.

Bringing us closer to our dreams of having fresh, bouncy pasta all day every day, Bellise offers fettuccine and spaghetti pasta in four flavours—original, spinach, squid ink and beetroot—made with love and all-natural ingredients. Sold in boxes good for 3-5 servings, so delectable-looking you’ll want to have it the moment you get home, the good news is, Bellise also sells marinara and creamy mushroom carbonara sauce which will have you a more-than-decent pasta dish ready in less than 15 minutes. And if you’re wondering if your pasta dishes will end up looking like they came straight off Instagram, to that we say, absolutely bellissima!

IG: @bellise.bn

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

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

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

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biG listings

THE MORNING DUDES It can be globally agreed upon that whatever country you’re in, burgers are comfort food.

And it can also be agreed upon that the mark of a very good burger is one that messes up your lipstick and your fingers (worth it) and that hour spent at the gym (so worth it). A good burger is a perfect unity of meat, fresh ingredients, the right condiments and crispy, buttery bread.

And you know what? We think the dudes at The Morning Dudes nailed this formula.

Offering just three choices of juicy burger options that come sandwiched in a buttery bun with ingredients like pickled onions, honey glazed beef bacon, caramelised onions, cheddar cheese

and a sauce only known as Morning Dudes Sauce.

They come in single, double and triple patties.

You’ll also see the term ‘smashed’ thrown here and there, and here’s a bit of context: smash a burger and it gets flatter which makes contact areas in the patty tastier. And if you’re good at it, you can smash your burger and retain all its juiciness. These dudes at The Morning Dudes know what’s up.

Pre-orders are open on Mondays while pick-ups are done on Fridays and Saturdays from 3pm-5pm.

IG: @themorningdudes

biG listings

BICARA LAB The wonderful thing about having a prominent coffee culture is that there’s never a shortage of coffee joints coursing through the nation’s caffeine-loving veins. Toting a “for the people, by the people” philosophy, Bicara Lab opened in early June with the sound idea of providing a cosy venue in Seria for the coffee community to do what they do best—live their best lives with a quality cuppa by their side. Owing the chilled demeanour of the café to the Nusantara region of South East Asia, Bicara (meaning to talk or to converse) serves as the perfect pit-stop for customers looking to recharge their day or for commuters needing a pick-me-up before their long drive home. Try out their white (latte) or filter coffee if you’re feeling adventurous—or better yet, pick up your own batch of their current brews, sold at the café itself.

2601, Jalan Nakhoda Manis, Seria Open Mondays-Saturdays: 9am-4.30pm (Closed on Fridays 11am-2pm) IG: @bicara.lab

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY THE EMPIRE BRUNEI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OPEN DAILY 7am-9pm

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

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

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biG listings (673 2429366) Kitchen of Jasmine

by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 8997333) Magherita Pizzeria #5 Blk A Scout Complex Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 8688884) Pastamania G9A & G10A, Grd Flr, Times Square Shopping Centre, Spg 13-29, Jln Berakas ‘A’ (673 2338061) – Call for other branches Pepper Lunch Brunei C9/10 Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 2253000) PEZZO Grd Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2440068 | 7182323) Qasehmaisara Café House #206-209 2nd Flr Plaza Athirah, Jln Kubah Makam DiRaja (673 2789898) RMS Diner A5 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 3347455) RBC Lifestyle Cafe Waterfront, Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2220815) Rovansil Restaurant #36-38 1st Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2337129) Red Canopy Café #5 Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2453878) Ricardo’s #19 Jerudong Park Food Court Phase 2, Kg Jerudong (673 7276455) – WA only Sorriso Restaurant & Pizzeria #14 Blk B Grd Flr Regent Square, Kiulap (673 2233030) Swensen’s #2.34-2.36 2nd Flr The Mall, Gadong (673 2451864) Wing-It #16 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 7224999)

COFFEE & CAFES GOURMET, PREMIUM-GRADE, SPECIALTY COFFEE – THIS LIST ACCOMMODATES THE BEST OF THE BURGEONING LOCAL COFFEE INDUSTRY. Balkony #10 Block C Shakirin Complex Kiulap (673 2230191) Beanery & Co #81 A/1 Grd Flr, Jln Bunga Rambai, Kuala Belait (673 3347772) BELLUNO Café #2 Blk C Kiarong Complex, Kg Kiarong (673 2429010)

Bloom Cafe by Mr Baker Grd Flr Block A 1Riverside, Jalan Gadong (673 8768770) Brew Café & Bakery #47 Grd Flr Blk C Gadong Central, Menglait (673 2427554) Caffé Verve #6A Spg 68, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 8757382) The Collective Wildflower Café Grd Flr Royal Brunei Recreational Club (RBRC), BSB Chocolate Origin Grd Flr Block B, 1Riverside, Jalan Gadong (673 2221865) E.A.T. Bakery Grd Flr Blk B, Little Soho, Spg 73-5-8, Jln Batu Bersurat, Kg Pengkalan

CHATTO TEA BRUNEI As a recovering sweettooth, Chatto Tea’s finely curated menu hits just the right spots on the tongue.

Modern day’s answer to a handcrafted tea bar and toting a Japanese concept, Chatto Tea’s drinks are infused with top-notch natural ingredients and come with subtle notes but a distinct flavour. Exhibit A would be its star beverage (which, yay for us, is highly Instagrammable too!) the Organic Oolong Pearl Milk Tea made with an oolong tea base topped with a delectable layer of charcoal foam on top. And while Chatto’s drinks are best enjoyed at a healthier 30% sugar level, don’t be fooled—Chatto’s drinks are anything but bland. And if you’re there and thinking “hmm my drink would go really great with a snack right now”, fret not, they also sell bites such as Japanese bento boxes, hearty sandwiches that pack a punch and other snacks.

Unit 5, Grd Flr, Bgn Majid Mohd, Jalan Pasar Baharu (behind The Arch) Tel: 673-8919188 IG: @chattotea_bn

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

Gadong (673 8664608)

ADVERTISERS

GALLERY

Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 2231777) – call for other branches Games & Lattes Café #E9 Grd Flr Blk E Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 2235200) Geo Eats No. 13, Spg 381, Kg Jerudong (673 8271381) Gloria Jean’s Coffee G17 Citis Square, Berakas (673 2338452)

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

Daily à la carte dinner is available.

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

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

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

Happy Cream Unit 1, 1st Flr, Bgn Majid Mohd, Jln Pasar Baharuddin, Gadong (673 8158587) High Frequency Lifestyle Café 1st Flr Unit 5 Blk B Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 2428262) It’s a Grind Coffeehouse 1, Grd Floor, Bgn AlWarasah, Muara Town (673 2772424) – call for other branches Kapra Coffee #26 Grd Flr Blk C Spg 440, Jln Muara (673 2345656) Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17 Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 8997333) Ner Dee Café #F11 1st Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 7331783) Peppermint Café #209B, 2nd Flr, Wisma Jaya, Jln Pemancha, BSB, BS8811 (673 8622848) Piccolo Café #11 Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2241558) Rack & Brew #9 Blk H 1st & 2nd Flr Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 7299668)

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

GO GREEN HEALTHY AND VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY OPTIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(673 2237253) Wayback Burgers Unit B10-11 Setia Kenangan II Spg 150 Kiulap (673 2236882) NON-HALAL OPTIONS Danes Café #102, Bgn Batu Bersurat, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 2428914) Golden Leaf Coffee House Blk 1 Grd Flr PAP Hjh Norain Building, Jln Batu Satu (673 2220422) – Call for other branches Phongmun Restaurant 2nd Flr Teck Guan Plaza Jln Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 2229561) Sui Heng Restaurant Grd Flr Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah Complex, Kg Jaya Setia (673 2338321) Hua Hua Restaurant Grd Flr, Blk B, Bangunan Urairah, Kiulap

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

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

45

biG listings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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

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

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

EAT (SARAWAK)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CARVERY RESTAURANT Jln Abell, Kuching (6082 239 449)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

biG listings 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)

KIM BAY HK MACAU RESTAURANT Boulevard Shopping Mall Jln Datuk Tawi, Kuching (6082 239 308) KOREANA RESTAURANT 10002 Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6082 575 072) KUCHING NOODLE PORRIDGE HOUSE 115-1 Wisma Saberkas, Kuching (6082 426 005) L.L. BANANA LEAF 7G Lorong Rubber 1 Jln Rubber, Kuching (6082 239 404) LI GARDEN RESTAURANT Hock Lee Centre, Kuching (6082 340 785) LIM HOCK ANN 96 1 Jln Kg Kuntal, Kuching (6082 846 533) LOK THIAN RESTAURANT 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 3313 310) LU LAI VEGETARIAN 3641, Lrg 2 Off Jln Rock, Kuching (6082 242 863) LUCKY RESTAURANT 65C G Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 562) LYN’S THANDOORI RESTAURANT 7 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 234 934) MENAWAN RESTAURANT Grd Floor, Imperial Palace HotelLot 1120 Blk 7 Jalan Sehati MCLD 98000 MIRI (6085 432 299) MANGO TREE RESTAURANT Jalan Crookshank, Kuching (6082 235 353) MAP RESTAURANT Bang Terminal, Kuching (6082 459 087) MARCO POLO RESTAURANT 116A BDA Shahida, Bintulu (6086 332 458) MEDAN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 56, Jln Mdn Setiaraja, Mukah (6084 874 145) MERRY RESTAURANT 187 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 240 118) METRO CAFÉ 781 Jln Bangkita, Limbang (6085 215 488) MIN HUA (89) RESTAURANT G 13 Jln Bintang Utara, Bintangor (6084 693 240)

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

LAKSA LOLITA Sarawak laksa has garnered a reputation for miles and miles around for its tangy, full flavour enriched with coconut milk and tamarind paste and with the many renditions of the much-loved soup dish now available everywhere, it’s always a pleasure coming across authentic tried-andtrue Sarawak laksa with the works. Laksa Lolita is a no-frills establishment which specializes in—yeap, you’ve guessed it!— Sarawak laksa. The only dish in the menu (aside from mee jawa), their confidence is well-earned and will leave you with a smile on your face and a hankering for more.

Take note, they are only open from 7am to 2pm so the early bird gets the noodle!

Lot 349, Piasau Utara, Jalan 1, 98000, Miri Sarawak Tel: 019-4864486

TOPSPOT BUKIT MATA SEAFOOD CENTRE Jln Padungan, Bukit Mata, Kuching (6019 889 9838)

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

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

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

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

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)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

47

biG essentials

BRUNEI BANKS Banks in Brunei Darussalam are usually open Mondays to Fridays, 9am - 4pm and on Saturdays, 9am 11am. Some banks have branches with later closing times. Islamic banks follow the same operation hours except on Fridays when they are closed for prayers between 11am - 2.30pm.

Cash withdrawals and deposits can be made from Automated Teller Machines (ATM) that can be found in various shopping complexes and bank branches all over the country. ATM cards affiliated with the international Plus or Cirrus systems are accepted at most ATMs.

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

Some establishments accept American Express.

$

48

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

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

TELECOMMUNICATIONS FRIDAY PRAYER TIME

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

Islamic Etiquette Although Islam is the state religion of Brunei Darussalam, it is also a country that prides itself on the diversity of its people – including their religions. Visitors are welcome to mosques, provided some etiquette is followed. In general, proper attire is required; women are required to cover their head, shoulders, and knees.

Some mosques will provide simple robes and shawls to meet these standards. Shoes are to be removed before entering a mosque. Please do not pass in front of people in prayer, and do not touch the Al-Quran. Please ask for permission before taking photographs – particularly inside!

Mosques are usually closed on Thursday and Friday, and during prayer times – your hotel, tour guide, or Muslim locals can help you determine a good time to visit.

Most public phones operate on prepaid calling cards which can be obtained in all major shopping areas and retail stores.

Mobile prepaid SIM cards are also available for purchase at DST Communications Sdn Bhd (DST Com) and Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd (PCSB) service counters as well as the respective authorised vendors’ stores.

Taxis

TOURIST

INFORMATION

CENTRE

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

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

WATER

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

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

TAXIS Unique to Brunei, the water taxi is the most common means of transportation in Kampong Ayer.

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

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

KALIMANTAN Banks

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

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

$ Money Changer

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

AIR TRAVEL

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

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

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

Taxis

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

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

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Tourist Information Centre

SABAH Banks

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

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

$

Money Changer

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

SARAWAK Banks

Banks open from 9.30am to 3pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.

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

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Buses

There are three main bus terminals that operate regular services. The terminal along Jalan Tun Razak provides services within the city and its outskirts. For destinations south of the city (Papar, Beaufort, Tenom, Tambunan, Keningau), use the terminal near Padang Merdeka.

For any other destinations north of the city and all the way to the east coast towns of Sandakan, Tawau, Lahad Datu and Semporna, you have to take a bus to the Kota Kinabalu North Bus Terminal in Inanam and from there proceed to your destination of choice. Kinabalu Park is located en route from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan.

AIR TRAVEL

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

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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 the airport terminal and cost about RM30.00 to get to the city.

The journey takes between 10-15 minutes. Within the city, taxi stations are located next to major shopping malls and hotels. Long distance taxi services can be found next to Padang Merdeka.

Buses

Money Changer

$

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

Cybercafés offer very affordable rates for internet services.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

It is possible to make IDD phone calls at payphones using coins or call cards.

Prepaid calling cards are also widely available by authorized dealers at shopping malls.

Most major hotels have WIFI facility either in their guest rooms or public areas.

An increasing number of restaurants now have WIFI zones too. Cybercafés offer very affordable rates for internet services.

Sabah Tourism Board Jalan Gaya Tel: (6088) 212 121 Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sinsuran Complex Tel: (6088) 232 121 Tourism Malaysia (Sabah) Api Api Centre Tel: (6088) 211 732 Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 1 Tel: (6088) 413 359 Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 2 Tel: (6088) 447 075

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

Express Boats and Ferry Services A boat service locally known as tambang is available for the short trip across Kuching River to the riverside villages on the other side and along the river for sightseeing. Fast and comfortable express boats connect coastal towns (Kuching, Sibu, Kapit) and villages on the major rivers in Sarawak.

The Express Ferry Terminal in Kuching offers trips to Sibu and onwards to Kapit for upriver journeys. Take a bus from Sibu to Miri for ferries to Brunei and onwards to Labuan island and Kota Kinabalu.

Taxis

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

Kuching Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6082) 410 944/2 Miri Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6085) 434 181 Sibu Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6084) 340 980

to WaMa Designs, Bandtree Sdn Bhd and Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre for receiving the Asia Pacific Property Award for Public Service Interior in Brunei Darussalam

FROM

SHAMMAH ENTERPRISE SDN BHD

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80’s Pop Culture

Films

The Breakfast Club (1985) Starring Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall, Ally Sheedy and Judd Nelson Directed by John Hughes

The Terminator (1984) Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton and Michael Biehn Directed by James Cameron Before Sarah Connor became one of the kick-assest women to ever kick ass (I am aware this is not a word), she was a waitress who fell in love with a soldier from the future who had come to the past to protect her from a terminator who is out to terminate her for giving birth to a man who will be the world’s future salvation. The plot sounds crazy, but if you haven’t watched it, please let me assure you that it is 100% awesome.

I understand that you’ll need a little more convincing if you watched any other Terminator movie post-Terminator 2 before watching this one, but let me assure you, the first one is quintessential to your 80’s pop culture education.

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Okay there is a literal sea of coming-of-age movies directed

by John Hughes, and even though I’m particularly partial to Sixteen Candles, I decided on The Breakfast Club because this is the film that featured the Brat Pack (namely, a group of young actors who appeared in these coming-ofage films in that decade). The film follows a day of weekend detention where five teenagers find themselves at for various reasons that get uncovered as the day wears on. It’s a pretty fantastic movie which remains popular today, with a final song that will still make you pump your fist into the air, and I really truly hope they’re not going to attempt to remake this one.

So you think you’re a fan of the 80’s? Bit of an expert in pop culture?

Well I hate to disappoint you dear reader, but if you haven’t watched most if not all of the iconic 80’s movies on this list, then I’m afraid you’re not an expert just yet. Less a pop culture enthusiast and more a person who was actually old enough to watch these movies in the 80’s, I’m going to round off just a few of the major movies in pop culture history in this issue. So if you’re looking to get a quick education into 80’s films, here you go and you’re welcome!

Take note that there are so many that didn’t make the cut, so allow me to give a quick shout-out to Raiders of the Lost Ark, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, When Harry Met Sally, Top Gun, Ghostbusters, The Goonies, The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, and so much more.

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The Princess Bride (1987)

E.T. the ExtraTerrestrial (1982) Starring Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore and Dee Wallace Directed by Steven Spielberg And here’s another movie I hope will never get remade. You definitely know this one, but I’ll break it down for you anyway: a kid named Elliott discovers a gentle extra-terrestrial stranded on earth, and brings him to his suburban home in California.

Introducing him as E.T. to his little sister and brother, the trio decide to keep him a secret, until E.T. falls ill and the government intervenes.

Four decades on and I don’t think you’ll find a story quite as touching as the friendship between Elliott and E.T., and it remains a film that touches both young and older audiences.

Starring Cary Elwes, Robin Wright and Mandy Patinkin Directed by Rob Reiner Recently, The Princess Bride was trending because of a horrific rumour: there were talks of remaking the movie. Fans and purists and the cast themselves went on social media to protest the idea (I myself raged at the thought), quite simply because there is no remaking perfection. Based on the equally good book by William Goldman, the story and journey of Princess Buttercup, her love Wesley, with unforgettable characters like the Dread Pirate Roberts, Inigo Montoya and his revenge plan for the six-fingered man, Fezzik, Vizzini, and the odious Prince Humperdinck, is peppered with lines and moments that will be recounted for generations to come. If there’s any one movie on the list you should be watching, this would be it.

Die Hard (1988)

Back to the Future Starring Michael J Fox, Christopher Lloyd and Lea Thompson Directed by Robert Zemeckis What I said about The Princess Bride being the one movie on the list you need to be watching? Okay it goes for this one too. This film (and the consequent sequels) about a teenage boy going back to the past to save his friend and the accidental bungling of his own family life has made such a mark on film culture that you’ll still hear people saying things about flux capacitors and dreaming about their own Deloreans today.

Starring Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman and Bonnie Bedelia Directed by John McTiernan Alan Rickman’s Hans Gruber is arguably the best movie villain in the history of ever and the fact that this was actually the late actor’s first acting role is mind-blowing.

And NYPD Detective John McClane is arguably Bruce Willis’ greatest role. Forced to be the hero when he attends his wife’s office Christmas party where a group of terrorists storm the entire Nakatomi Plaza and takes everyone hostage, he needs to use his wiles, skills and courage to take the bad guys down. This is a man that all action heroes should aspire to be: selfless, vulnerable, scared, but willing to do what he needs to do. This is not the same John McClane that is portrayed in the last three Die Hard sequels, but it’s the one we’ll remember the most.

Dirty Dancing (1987) Starring Patrick Swayze, Jennifer Grey and Kelly Bishop Directed by Emile Ardolino Welcome to the world’s most boring resort, and this is where Frances and her family are staying for the summer holidays. Until a watermelon carrying incident brings her to another side of the resort – a distinctly raunchy side – where the dance instructors during the day move to a very different and sultry beat at night. If you haven’t watched this movie, you’ve certainly heard of it, and if nothing else, you definitely have heard the soundtrack at some stage in your life.

If that’s a no on both, then what are you waiting for?

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

JAN 15

TENET

PETER RABBIT 2: THE RUNAWAY

Starring Janelle Monáe, Kiersey Clemons and Jena Malone

Voiced by James Corden, Elizabeth Debicki and Margot Robbie

It has been over two years since we last caught up with Peter Rabbit and his lovable comrades, and these days the Rabbit family are living a comfortable garden life with Thomas and Bea, who are now married.

But Peter, being the rabbit that he is, craves adventure, and decides to leave the boring garden life for the big city. He comes upon some shady characters and naturally, chaos ensues.

MORTAL KOMBAT

JAN

Starring Jessica McNamee, Hiroyuki Sanada and Joe Taslim

15

Based on the granddaddy of button-smashing games, this martial-arts fantasy action film is set to make Mortal Kombat fans (not necessarily movie critics) very happy bunnies.

On the plus side, this is a reboot of Mortal Kombat: Annihilation – a universally scorned and terribly failed attempt at making the popular video game into a movie in 1997 – so there’s really nowhere to go but up from here!

JAN 15

RESPECT

Starring Jennifer Hudson, Forest Whitaker and Audra McDonald

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

The pandemic needs some superhero entertainment and the truly amazing cast from the MCU’s upcoming The Eternals is just what the doctor ordered. Taking place after the events of Avengers: Endgame, the film follows The Eternals - ancient aliens who have been living on Earth in secret for thousands of years, but reunite when an unexpected tragedy forces them out of hiding to unite against The Deviants – mankind’s most ancient enemy.

FEB 10

THE ETERNALS

RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON Voiced by Kelly Marie Tran and Awkwafina

This gorgeously made Disney animated movie takes place in a realm known as Kumandra, a land split into five different regions that are inhabited by an ancient civilisation. In this re-imagined Earth, a warrior named Raya is seeking the Last Dragon to save her world from evil. Us Borneans should be particularly excited to this movie, which is said to have taken inspiration from Southeast Asian cultures.

A biographical drama based on the life of the incomparable Aretha Franklin, the film follows the legendary R&B singer in her journey as a part of her father’s church choir as a child and into the superstar that she becomes.

THE KING’S MAN

FEB

Starring Ralph Fiennes, Harris Dickinson and Gemma Arterton

12

The latest in the hugely popular Kingsman franchise, this is a prequel to the glorious action and humour packed affairs that had Eggsy and Sir Galahad teaming up to save the world. We go back in time in this film to a time when a collection of history’s tyrants and criminal masterminds team up to plot a war, leaving it to the King’s Man to stop them. While costumes and cast are different, the Kingsman sentiment remains true: whatever year it is, manners always maketh man.

MAR 12

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