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Issue 8 | 2017 | RM12.00
Destination Malaysia YOUR TRAVEL & LEISURE GUIDE
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TRAVEL & FASHION
KL FASHION WEEK RTW
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HERITAGE TOP 15 RICE DISHES WORTH TRYING
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CITY TRAVEL ALOR SETAR SHINES BRIGHT
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ADVENTURE TRAVEL
EXTREME EXPLORATIONS
Chocha Foodstore
CONNECTING THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
KL Forest Eco Park
A GREEN OASIS IN THE HEART OF THE CITY
Entopia
A Definitive Guide ISSUE 9 772289
200006
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ISSN 2289-2001
Destination Malaysia
PP 8504/09/2013 (032970)
WINGS OF WONDER UNFURLED
FEATURING THE BEST OF MALAYSIA’S NATURAL MARVELS, ADVENTURE TRAVELS, CULTURAL HERITAGE & ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
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Destination Malaysia THE PUBLISHER
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
EDITORIAL
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HEAD OF PUBLISHING Wan Norlelawati Wan Abdul Aziz PRODUCT MANAGER Ishaq Mohd Nor EDITOR Ayu Rahayu Mustapha WRITER Sharifah Arfah Syed Mestaddin CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ummi Junid DESIGNER Hairul Izwan & Azyan Alias EMAIL destinationmalaysia@yellowpages.my CONCEPT & DESIGN TM Info-Media Sdn Bhd
BUSINESS HEAD OF SALES Ng Yoon Fatt
THANKS TO TOURISM MALAYSIA MINISTRY OF TOURISM & CULTURE, MALAYSIA No 2, Tower 1, Jalan P5/6, Precint 5 62200 Putrajaya Tel: 03-8891 8000 Email: enquiries@tourism.gov.my Website: www.tourism.gov.my | www.malaysia.travel
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Kuantan, Pahang Level 3, Wisma TM Mahkota Jalan Mahkota, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang Tel: 09-514 8811 Fax: 09-514 0088
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Check us out at www.destinationmalaysia.my
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Editor ʼs Note
What travel thoughts are percolating in your mind right now? Are you dreaming of far-flung locales or contemplating a sojourn close to home? Whatever strikes your fancy, Malaysia gleams with a bright array of choices we’re proud to present to you in our 8th issue. What happens when a business goes hyperlocal? Something akin to magic! A sense of whimsy lights up our Check This Out! section, while the #ShopLokal segment glows with the heart-warming enthusiasm of entrepreneurial heroes who are not afraid to push boundaries and reimagine success. Chocha Foodstore lies encased in an unassuming shell, like a precious jewel hidden from the world. Those lucky enough to stumble upon it will discover an oasis of calm, a sunlit interior to sip lapsang souchong with friends or savour a solitary moment. Read our Food & Culture story to learn why sometimes we need to cast a COVER PHOTO: CHOCHA FOODSTORE The allure of yum cha culture proves irresistible at this hidden jewel of Petaling Street. Image by: Ummi Junid
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The Destination Malaysia Team
backward glance while looking ahead to the future. Deep from the heart of the nation’s capital, KL Forest Eco Park welcomes city dwellers and wanderers from far and near. Be a rambling wayfarer even just for a while. Traverse the trails. Explore the winding paths. Let the soothing shades of emerald lighten your heart. Thinking about pursuing a foodie adventure in a place less travelled? Gourmands, set your culinary compass to Alor Setar! This northern city serves up one delicious surprise after another. Follow the insider tips we’ve laid out for you to uncover some of the area’s best-kept secrets. Cuisines that look good and taste great, crafts in every colour imaginable, green spaces to entice: Issue 8 captures the spirit of travel that lives on in Destination Malaysia. May our tales take you one step closer to your dream journey. All you need to do now is turn the pages.
12 Text by: Sharifah Arfah Syed Mestaddin Photo: Ruo Ling
Check This Out!
I Love A Collection of Happy Things
We all yearn for simpler times when life was uncomplicated and there’s more time for leisure. For many people, those days usually hark back to childhood. Do you remember the design of your first schoolbag? And do you also remember the time when every study room has a typewriter? If you love vintage stuff and cute-as-button décor items, head over to Snackfood, a name that’s as whimsical as the things it sells. Take some time off and plan a visit. From the array of products on sale at the outlet, it’s pretty obvious that the proprietor takes destinationmalaysia
great pains to ensure a fruitful visit for those interested in looking for something different. “My curatorial direction is constantly ensuring that everything we represent is thoughtful, whether in its inspiration, process or presentation. I am immensely drawn to designs that possess natsukashii characteristics (sudden joy and memory of good times). Essentially, I desire for the spirit of discovery to exude from the store. I want people to discover new or nostalgic feelings at Snackfood — be it an idea or a pleasure,” said its founder, Adeline Chong. Inside, there are string lounge chairs to make your living room brighter. Quirky table ornaments can liven up your coffee table. Pyjamas can be embossed with your monogram. Tired of run-of-the-mill bags? At the shop, you can find quintessential
CHECK THIS OUT!
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heritage designs so that you can travel in style. Among the totes on sale here are English luxury leather label Daines & Hathaway. You can even get Marvis, a ‘cult brand’ toothpaste described by The Wall Street Journal as the equivalent to the “Dolce & Gabbana dress” in one’s wardrobe of staples. According to Adeline, niche book titles and independent magazines are popular with the shop’s visitors. “We don’t curate titles based on lifestyle. We curate with curiosity. We stock like the big bookstores do, except we also take chances on newer niche titles and give them the proper publicity that they deserve.”
Tired of run-of-the-mill bags? At the shop, you can find quintessential heritage designs so that you can travel in style.
Book collectors would love the classic Ladybird titles available at the shop. Stocks of minimalist lifestyle magazines and travel magazines, such as Kinfolk and Cereal, are also available.
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Check This Out!
Speaking of books, the premise also sells Archie Grand notebooks. Made of high-quality paper, the notebooks are great for those who want to record their thoughts and inspirations. The notebooks are a part of the outlet’s ‘Snackfood Vintage Desks’ range for people who are passionate about penning down their life aspirations on top-notch log books and journals. Ladies looking to add more shoes to their collection can now buy footwear from the marque of Nelissa Hilman, an engineer-turned-shoemaker. A collection of costume jewellery under the brand name of The Straits Finery, established by businesswoman Foo Chia Chern and market researcher Amira Yahaya, is born out of a desire to create timeless and minimalist adornments.
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CHECK THIS OUT!
Ladies looking to add more shoes to their collection can now buy footwear from the marque of Nelissa Hilman, an engineer-turnedshoemaker.
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To Adeline, it matters less if the shop seems to come across as a general store. “What makes a multi-label brand store more exciting is personality and point of view. Curating a brand repertoire requires the clear mind of balance, and a readiness to keep it fresh. So we have the upper hand with different stories, be it a product, its origins and its makers. That keeps our personality fresh and exciting. And why Snackfood has a growing popularity is because we are genuine with our opinions and are open-minded to speak what we feel.�
I Love Snackfood
17A, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru 59100 Kuala Lumpur www.ilovesnackfood.com
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Check This Out!
Text by: Ayu Rahayu Mustapha Photo: Stickerrific
Stickerrific There’s heart and soul aplenty at this physical and online stationery store. Stickerrific stocks an amazing variety of specialty stationery — from journals (we love their gorgeous Traveler’s Notebook and 2017 Diaries series!), postcards, vintage ephemera and washi tapes to calligraphy supplies, watercolour, fountain pens and inks, rubber stamps and, naturally, stickers galore! But the owners aspire to offer more than just fantastic products: “We help people reach out to loved ones. We help fulfil childhood dreams. We bring strangers together.” Here’s a delightful sanctuary where you can find not only travel paraphernalia and collectible items but also solace and serenity. Apart from a cosy place to mellow out, there are classes and workshops on arts and crafts for you to flex those creative muscles. Fancy some feline company? You can count on Luke, Leia and Chewie, the trio of resident cats whose extreme cuteness will make you feel right at home!
Stickerrific No 83-1.2, Level 1, Jaya One Jalan Universiti, 46200 Petaling Jaya Selangor +603-7495 5963 www.stickerrificstore.com
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CHECK THIS OUT!
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Embrace imaginative freedom and exploration of ideas at one of Kuala Lumpur’s leading public art galleries! ILHAM lives up to its name by inspiring visitors of all ages to engage and interact with modern and contemporary Malaysian art. It’s justifiably famous for conducting scintillating programmes that raise our enjoyment of the works of art. The programmes also stimulate personal interpretations and responses to the stories
or messages behind the artists’ creations. Besides activities like workshops and film screenings, ILHAM has held several exhibitions of note: Picturing the Nation, Love Me in My Batik: Modern Batik Art from Malaysia and Beyond and Era Mahathir. Admission is free, and guided tours and school visits are available at no charge. Just take a few minutes’ stroll from KLCC to check out its latest exhibition, Afterwork, happening now until 16 April 2017.
ILHAM Gallery
Levels 3 & 5, ILHAM Tower No 8, Jalan Binjai, 50450 Kuala Lumpur +603 2181 3003 info@ilhamgallery.com
www.ilhamgallery.com
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Text by: Ayu Rahayu Mustapha Photo: ILHAM Gallery
ILHAM Gallery
30 Text by: Sharifah Arfah Syed Mestaddin Photo: Earth Heir/Mohd Zulhairi Sulaiman
#ShopLokal
Earth Heir
Crafting a hopeful future
Sasibai Kimis, founder of Earth Heir, is an example of a successful social entrepreneur. Ipoh-born Sasibai moved to Kuala Lumpur when she was 6 years old. She studied in Singapore, the US and the UK, and lived in Africa before coming back to Malaysia about 7 years ago. Since then, she has been based in the capital city. Her background is in banking and non-profit development work. Working in finance, Sasibai started toying with the idea of making an impact on society. “I want to understand how to make a bigger difference in the lives of others,� she said.
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#SHOPLOKAL #SHOPLOKAL
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Earth Heir is a Malaysian social enterprise founded on an appreciation for traditional artisans and contemporary design. Its vision is to preserve and celebrate craftsmanship by stewarding both people and nature as heirs of the earth. The company produces gift packages and luxury handcrafted accessories with a focus on heritage preservation, sustaining the livelihoods of the communities it works with, and minimizing environmental impacts. The engagement involves travelling to the artisans’ locations in order to not only understand the craft process but also learn about the challenges the artisans face. The trips allow the Earth Heir stakeholders to assess the general livelihood conditions of the craftspeople to arrange for the best way to work with and help them. Artisans affiliated with Earth Heir operate in workshops with good working conditions or in the comfort of their own homes. Enabling artisans to work in their villages helps reduce the outflow of young people into the cities, where they are more vulnerable to exploitation.
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#ShopLokal
Sasibai’s most vivid memory of her motivation that led to the formation of Earth Heir was of working in the rural villages of Kampong Thom in Cambodia in 2011. “I saw the work of the artisans and how many of them were not able to make enough to continue in their craftsmanship trade, and I began to buy their pieces to sell to friends and family in Malaysia and in the US. It started as a hobby until I was encouraged by a mentor (Dato’ Dr Kim Tan, an impact investor) to start making it into a real business to develop sustainable change,” Sasibai explained. “Empowering artisans to earn a living wage locally will strengthen the community. The home environment
The company produces gift packages and luxury handcrafted accessories with a focus on heritage preservation, sustaining the livelihoods of the communities it works with. is especially beneficial to mothers and fathers needing to care for children or elderly parents. “For the few artisans we partner with who work in cities, we have visited each workshop to ensure good, safe working environments,” said Sasibai. Besides Cambodia, the project is also being carried out in Malaysia, India, Indonesia, Thailand and Uzbekistan. In Malaysia, the company has collaborated with a batik group based in Rawang, a
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Kenyah tribe member in Miri, embellishment experts and designers in Selangor, a social enterprise working with songket in Kuching, a bookbinding specialist in Kuala Lumpur, mengkuang weavers in Terengganu, the Mah Meri tribe in Selangor and many others. Earth Heir is also aiming to ensure the preservation of craftmaking by ensuring that young people carry on making an effort to learn the traditional skills and keep the art alive.
#SHOPLOKAL
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Earth Heir 102, Lorong Mamanda 2 Ampang Point, 68000 Ampang Selangor +6013-211 7994 www.earthheir.com team@earthheir.com earthheir @earthheir
In addition to championing ethical consumption, the organization aspires to encourage other social entrepreneurs on their journey. “I hope that Earth Heir might be an example for the creation of sustainable social enterprises to showcase that pursuing a triple bottom line approach is what makes the most business sense,� added Sasibai. Earth Heir sells various bags, purses, accessories, shawls and clothes that are made by artisans, underprivileged groups or disadvantaged persons. To buy its products online or to find out about the retail outlets selling the products, visit www.earthheir.com.
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44 Text by: Ayu Rahayu/Sharifah Arfah
Travel & Learning
Photo: Entopia
Penang Butterfly Farm reinvented
W
ant to witness winged beauties in motion? Or gather fascinating facts about creatures of the insect world, great and small? Your sense of wonder will take flight and be propelled to lofty heights at Entopia, the ultimate nature learning destination in Penang!
The story begins with Penang Butterfly Farm, an award-winning butterfly and insect sanctuary renowned for its live butterfly exhibits and other beguiling attractions centring on the animal kingdom, especially arthropods. In 2015, the 30,000-square-foot critters paradise had a major redevelopment and rebranding exercise. Emerging from this chrysalis stage is Entopia, an expanded and enhanced version which looks set to gain as many accolades as the much-loved original. With Phase 1 of the metamorphosis successfully completed in 2016, the outdoor facility and Indoor Discovery Centre now encompass over 100,000 square feet of idyllic gardens,
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gorgeous scenery, informative exhibits, displays, and so much more. Phase 2 is scheduled in 2019, and the park is expected to eventually occupy 140,000 square feet of beautifully curated living Edens. Magical, inspiring, educational: Entopia is an entomological utopia in every sense of the word. The spectacle starts with the building itself. Its impressive façade boasts one of the largest green walls in Malaysia. Spanning over 20,000 square feet of wall space measuring over 180 metres in length, the entire surface is covered with pocketed recesses filled with thousands of plants.
This unique feature will certainly earn Entopia the right to become a prominent landmark on Penang’s northern shores. Inside, the magic continues. Make your way through the exhibition space and be blown away by an environment utterly teeming with life and infused throughout with tropical sights and sounds. Best of all, you get to observe the stars of Entopia up close — over 150 species of fauna comprising our planet’s little denizens. These include the ubiquitous butterflies as well as beetles, millipedes, grasshoppers, fireflies, and many other weird and wonderful critters, all poised to mesmerize
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Natureland is a living garden vivarium, a shared ecological space for a variety of animal species, from buzzing insects to small reptiles, living in faithful recreations of their natural habitat.
bug lovers of all ages. Let’s take a closer look! Billed as nature’s largest classroom and one-stop discovery hub, the park is divided into two main areas: Natureland and The Cocoon.
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TRAVEL & LEARNING
Natureland is a living garden vivarium, a shared ecological space for a variety of animal species, from buzzing insects to small reptiles, living in faithful recreations of their natural habitat. This is the largest butterfly and dragonfly garden in Malaysia with more than 15,000 free-flying butterflies at any one time! The garden houses over 200 species of plants, waterfalls, ponds, caves and other artistic garden features. The Cocoon contains two floors of learning exhibition sections and areas for indoor activities. The entire Cocoon is in fact a stateof-the-art facility equipped with technology guided interpretation. It is designed to allow visitors to embark on a self-exploration of invertebrates through various interactive edu-stations. Besides the walk-through experience, you can also take part in fun, hands-on
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TRAVEL & LEARNING
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HOURS, TIX & OTHER BUG-FRIENDLY INFO Entopia opens daily from 9.00 am to 7.00 pm with last admission/ticket sale at 5.30 pm. Ticket price: RM49 for Adults (13 years and above) and RM29 for Children (4–12 years) or Senior Citizens (60 years and above). Nature Activities are available at
scheduled hours with no additional charges. Be sure to check out the schedule upon arrival.
Sign up as Friends of Entopia to enjoy unlimited entries in a year. To know more about member privileges, write to friends@entopia.com.
The Cocoon comprises two floors of learning exhibition sections and areas for indoor activities. The entire facility is equipped with state-of-the-art attractions.
Entopia also offers a series of amusing and interesting activities under its Entopia Learning Programmes (available through advance booking). To learn more, contact learning@entopia.com.
learning activities guided by Entopia’s nature activity personnel. Other exciting attractions in Natureland and The Cocoon include the Mystery Cave, Montane Pass, Tiger Trail, Home Tree, Aroma Tree, Butterfly Vista, Pandora Forest, Cinerama, Breeding Ground, Lumino City, Downtown Entopia, Breeding Ground, Underground Mysteries and Understory Tales. Tapestree, the first ever dine-with-butterflies experience by Entopia serves Asian and Western cuisine with quality selections of desserts, snacks, cold drinks, tea and coffee. For takeaways, make a direct beeline to its Tapestree (To Go) corner. An inviting place where food and conversations truly come together, it welcomes visitors from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm every day.
No 830, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Penang +604 888 8111
www.entopia.com
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Food & Culture
Text by: Sharifah Arfah Syed Mestaddin
Chocha Foodstore
Old-world charm is the buzz A LOCAL ARCHITECT AND HIS PARTNERS RESURRECT A NEGLECTED OLD PETALING STREET SHOPHOUSE INTO A LOVELY AND COSY FOOD ESTABLISHMENT AND COMMUNITY HUB.
Photo: Anita Nasir/Chocha Foodstore destinationmalaysia
FOOD TRAVEL & CULTURE TECH
F
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rom the outside, the name Mah Lian Hotel is a misnomer for the actual hidden haven occupying it.
Instead of a motel, visitors stepping in will definitely be surprised by the multifaceted jewel they will find within the confines of the building. Chairs and tables occupy the right side of the ground floor, with more seating areas inside. Aged tiles, rough concrete walls and old bicycles act as ‘décor’. Chocha Foodstore, officially opened in July 2016, is at Petaling Street, which is also a collective name for the country’s version of Chinatown.
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ARTS FOOD&&CULTURE CULTURE
“Chocha Foodstore is really a project to generate economic activities and bring life to the area,” said founder Shin Chang (pictured below), an architect by profession. Not just an eatery or teahouse, Chocha also functions as a collaborative platform for multi-disciplined creatives.
Petaling Street’s successful beginning has its roots in the foresightedness of Kapitan Cina Yap Ah Loy, a Chinese community leader in 19th century Kuala Lumpur who opened a tapioca flour mill to provide work to Chinese labourers. The neighbourhood soon grew into a thriving commercial enclave. Today, the locale is a bustling trading centre popular among locals and tourists alike. The site is renowned for its shops selling clothes, bags, caps, sunglasses and watches — for a good price, if you haggle well. Shin, who spent a good part of his childhood roaming the lanes of Petaling Street, is determined to bring life back to the area. “We basically try to maintain all the existing structures of the shop, the rooms’ layout, as well as the original essence of the building itself. It is too charming and pretty to be wasted, and it is a duty for us to preserve it,” he said.
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Not just an eatery or teahouse, Chocha also functions as a collaborative platform for multi-disciplined creatives.
“We hope this can set an example for stopping unnecessary demolitions of old buildings. We also hope we can be part of a revitalized Kuala Lumpur and Chinatown,” Shin continued. It took Shin about 4 months to refurbish the store and it is one of a few business projects being run in the building. Currently, the restaurant occupies the ground floor which includes a sunny courtyard, along with a coffee bar near the reception and a bicycle workshop tucked at the back. “The project is a flexible collaboration. We will soon have a small corner for a bookstore dedicated to design publications. We have a coworking space on the first floor now (Shin’s firm MentahMatter Design) and a cocktail/wine bar will open on the same floor.”
FOOD ARTS & & CULTURE CULTURE
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We basically try to maintain all the existing structures of the shop, the rooms’ layout, as well as the original essence of the building itself.
”
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ARTS FOOD&&CULTURE CULTURE
The Chocha Foodstore project also highlights the heritage of Chinese culture in Malaysia, particularly relating to yum cha.
A new development — a chain hotel — is taking place across the street from Chocha Foodstore. “I believe it’s better for the resources to be spent refurbishing old hotels rather than building a new one,” said Shin wistfully. He noted, for example, the long-standing art deco-ish Starlight Hotel as a possible candidate. The Chocha Foodstore project also highlights the heritage of Chinese culture in Malaysia, particularly relating to yum
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cha. This is already evident in the name: Chocha is a Hakka word for “sit down and drink” — be it tea/cha or any kind of beverage. Interestingly, the word carries different meanings in other dialects, such as “first brew of tea” (Mandarin) and “stir food in wok” (Hokkien). Perusing the menu of Chocha Foodstore, one could be forgiven for thinking that it’s a ‘fusion’ bill of fare.
“My partners, Penny Ng and Youn Chang, design the menu. There is a twist but the essence is still Chinese,” said Shin. Cincalok Fried Chicken is batter-fried chicken infused with the pungent cencaluk (fermented geragau shrimps), and served with tangy salsa and the sweet house tomato chutney. The unique amalgamation of flavours and textures takes the dish to another level altogether.
FOOD ARTS & & CULTURE CULTURE
Chinese Pesto Flat Noodle
Ulam Stew Barley Rice
Cincalok Fried Chicken
Duck Rice
Curryflower is just what the name suggests — curried cauliflower. Curry leaves give it a heady and appetizing aroma. The starchy main is a dish of flat, wide handmade noodles inspired by the local Chinese pan mee. This one is blanketed in capsicums, an intoxicating coriander and Thai basil pesto, sesame and chopped peanuts, designed to make you say “oomph!”. “All the dishes in the menu focus on local produce or ingredients, and some of the vegetables come from our home garden,” Shin said.
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Tea, an important part of the Chinese food and drink culture, is a specialty here. Chocha’s cold-brewed tea range such as Sencha, Gold Rush (a fragrant brew with a sweet aftertaste) and Ding Dong Oolong comes highly recommended. There’s also hot tea such as Pu-erh. Chocha Foodstore is open daily from 11.00 am to 10.00 pm.
Chocha Foodstore 156, Jalan Petaling, 50000 Kuala Lumpur +603-2022 1100 chocha.foodstore
@chochafoodstore
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Come & Experience MALAYSIA’S NATURAL MARVELS
Destination Malaysia Madai Waterfall, Sabah
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Shedding light on the name origins of Malaysia's states and federal territories
What’s in a name? Plenty! A name conveys identity and character, and may even contain some interesting origins and surprising backstories that many might not know.
The name Malaysia is generally used to refer to the nation, having been in formal use since 16 September 1963. However, an entry in The British North Borneo Herald dated 1 January 1889 mentioned ‘Malaysia’, suggesting that the existence of the name predates the 1963 formation. Destination Malaysia takes you on a journey of discovery as we delve into a toponymic study of Malaysia’s states and federal territories.
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Text by: Sharifah Arfah Syed Mestaddin
Stately Etymology
Heritage
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HERITAGE
Origin of Malaysia's State Names There are 13 states in Malaysia and three federal territories, each with their own names and unique customs. But even before the states came into being, the Malaysia of today has yet to exist. The peninsula’s strategic location has enabled the area’s successive empires and kingdoms to benefit from the arrival of trading merchants from the Middle East, India and China. Colonized by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and eventually the British, the various Malay states were previously cloistered under the Federated Malay States, Unfederated Malay States and Straits Settlements before gaining independence in 1957 as the Federation of Malaya. The South China Sea separates Peninsular Malaysia from Borneo Island, where the states of Sabah and Sarawak, and the Federal Territory of Labuan lie. These states are situated in the northern parts of Borneo and their union under the Malaysia Agreement in 1963 signifies the birth of modern Malaysia. This confluence of historical events, culture, language and people has resulted in several lasting legacies — one of which is the endowment of names for Malaysia’s states and federal territories.
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Peninsular Malaysia
1 PERLIS The smallest and northernmost state in Malaysia, its name perhaps originated from the northern Malay word ‘perlus’, meaning ‘to accidentally step into or fall through a hole’. This may be due to the marshy nature of the state’s land.
4 KEDAH This northern state is steeped in ancient history. The earliest documented reference is found in a Tamil poem at the end of 2nd century AD, where ‘Kadaram’ is mentioned.
2 PULAU PINANG It’s widely believed that the island of Penang is so named due to its abundance of Pinang trees or areca palm (scientific name: Areca catechu).
3 SELANGOR The name may have been derived from ‘Sarang Lang’, which means ‘Eagle’s Nest’ in Malay.
5 PERAK The name is the Malay word for silver, which is the colour of tin ore. The state is named as such possibly in acknowledgement of its plentiful tin reserves at that time.
Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque (also known as Blue Mosque), Shah Alam, Selangor
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2 6 TERENGGANU The name may come from ‘terang ganu’ (Malay for ‘bright rainbow’). Another possible origin comes from a tale apparently told by the state’s ninth Sultan, Baginda Omar. It is about a hunting party from Pahang who found an animal fang after venturing into southern Terengganu. When asked if he knew which animal the fang belonged to, the hunter was unsure and answered “taring anu” (Malay for ‘fang of something’).
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9 PAHANG
7 KELANTAN Centuries-old Chinese records referred to the state as ‘Ho-lan-tan’ or ‘Chi-lan-tan’. A popular theory cites the name as a corruption of ‘Gelam Hutan’ (scientific name: Melaleuca leucadendra), a type of paperbark tree. It’s also possible for ‘Kelantan’ to be an adulteration of ‘Kolamthana’. The etymology can be traced back to the northern Indian (Hindi) word of ‘thana’, meaning ‘land’ or ‘place’, while ‘kolam’ is a traditional picture art form.
8 NEGERI SEMBILAN ‘Negeri’ is Sanskrit for ‘country’, ‘town’ or ‘district’, and ‘Sembilan’ means ‘nine’. In the olden days, the settlements were divided into nine districts and each was ruled by a ‘Batin’ (chief).
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The Siamese were among the earliest settlers in Pahang due to the richness of tin ore deposits at Sungai Lembing. The name of the state may have been derived from the Siamese word for ‘tin’. The Arabs, Europeans and Chinese in the past called the state ‘Phang-hang’, ‘Paam’, ‘Fanhan’ and ‘Pahagh’ among others.
10 MELAKA
11 JOHOR
Legend has it that the founder of the Melaka Sultanate, named Parameswara, was resting under the Melaka tree (scientific name: phyllanthus emblica) after a hunting session. While resting, he observed a mouse deer and a dog nearby. The mouse deer managed to fend off the dog’s attack and pushed it into a nearby river. Inspired by what he had witnessed, Parameswara decided to name his newfound empire after the tree under which he was sitting.
Johor is mentioned in Sejarah Melayu (The Malay Annals) as ‘Ganggayu’, a Javanese name for the state. However, the origin that is closer to its present name probably stems from ‘jauhar’ — the Arabic word for ‘gem’ or ‘jewel’. The Middle Eastern influence may have come from Arab traders who visited the state to conduct their business activities.
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12 SARAWAK
Federal Territory
The name may have come from ‘serawak’, an alloy containing antimony and sulphur that’s mined in the state. An unverified but popular story among the locals says that the origin of the state name is purportedly an acronym of “Saya serah pada awak” (I give it to you) — words uttered by Bornean aristocrat Pengiran Muda Hashim when he gave the state to James Brooke.
A KUALA LUMPUR The full name is ‘Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur’. ‘Kuala’ means ‘river mouth’ or ‘estuary’, and it’s a frequent prefix for the country’s place names. ‘Lumpur’ means ‘mud’. From its birthplace at the confluence of the Rivers Klang and Gombak, the small tin mining town of bygone days grew and prospered, and the rest is history.
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C LABUAN B PUTRAJAYA The administrative seat of the country, the Federal Territory of Putrajaya is named after Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, Malaysia’s first prime minister. ‘Jaya’, which translates as ‘success’ in Malay, is a common suffix for place names in Malaysia.
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Historically, Labuan is an important port from as early as the time of the Majapahit Empire, the Brunei Sultanate, and the British Empire. Thus, the island probably got its name from ‘labuhan’, an Old Malay word for ‘an anchoring place’.
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MABUL MAIGA ISLAND, SABAH
13 SABAH The name is apparently used by traders who travelled between the Sulu Islands and Brunei from as early as the 15th century, although the origin of the word is unknown at that time. The most often-quoted story is that the fruit of a banana plant the locals called ‘pisang menurun’ (scientific name: Musa acuminata balbisiana
cultivar) is also known as ‘pisang saba’. The latter, with an ‘h’ added at the end due to the way it’s pronounced by the locals, probably gave the state its name today.
Destination Malaysia
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Text by: Sharifah Arfah Syed Mestaddin
Heritage
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Photo: Tourism Malaysia
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Rice Dishes of Malaysia
From the paddy field to the table
IN MALAYSIA, RICE OR NASI CAN BE TRANSFORMED INTO A MYRIAD OF TANTALIZING AND COLOURFUL DISHES. FROM THE BASIC COCONUT MILKINFUSED NASI LEMAK TO THE ORNATELY SPICED BIRYANI, THERE IS SOMETHING TO SUIT EVEN THE MOST FUSSY AND DISCERNING INDIVIDUAL.
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Nasi lemak Considered by Malaysians to be the crown of all rice dishes due to its versatility, the dish comprises rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan (screw pine) leaves, and served with sambal (chilli paste), fried anchovies, boiled egg and sliced cucumbers. Other side dishes such as fried chicken and beef rendang may be added. Commonly wrapped in banana leaves, it is popular as a breakfast item. TIME Magazine recently listed nasi lemak as one of the top 10 healthiest international breakfasts.
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Nasi tomato Rice is cooked with tomato paste, ghee and evaporated milk mixture to give it its trademark red colour and tangy flavour. The rice goes well with creamy, spicy dishes such as kormas and curries. Malays love to cook this dish during festivities such as the Eid (Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Aidiladha).
Nasi minyak Biryani The dish is believed to have been brought to the country by merchants from the southern parts of India. Beriani gam, a variation, is a specialty from the state of Johor. The variation is brought about after the biryani cooking method arrived in the Riau-Lingga Sultanate and its spices adjusted to suit the taste of the local Malays.
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Directly translated as ‘oily rice’, single Malay men or women always get asked the question ‘Bila nak jemput kita makan nasi minyak?’ (When are you going to invite us for a meal of ‘oily rice’?). It actually alludes to whether a wedding invitation is forthcoming. This is because nasi minyak is a staple at Malay weddings. Although it is simply a dish of rice cooked in sautéed onion, spices and stock, its mild taste and fragrant aroma endear it to many.
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Banana leaf rice It is unique in presentation, where rice is eaten from the banana leaf that is placed flat on the table in front of patrons. Originating from Southern India, banana leaf rice is best eaten with the hand. In Malaysia, patrons will have a choice of either vegetarian or nonvegetarian. It is considered a courtesy as well as a ‘mini feedback’ to fold the banana leaf upon completing the meal, with front fold indicating ‘good’ and back-fold indicating ‘mediocre/fair’.
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Nasi tumpang Another truly Malaysian dish from Kelantan, the dish consists of rice, beef or chicken, gravy, sambal and omelette packed into a cone-shaped roll of banana leaf.
Nasi ulam Hot cooked rice is mixed with finely chopped herbs. The herbs must be chopped manually to ensure that they mix well with the rice while still retaining their texture.
Nasi kerabu Famously tinted a blue colour with the help of bunga telang (butterfly pea flower), nasi kerabu is a ubiquitous sight in Kelantan, where it’s a specialty. Finely sliced vegetables and herbs are the stars of this dish. Common accompaniments include keropok (fish crackers) and solok lada (stuffed green chilli). The added pizzazz is the sambal and budu (fermented anchovy sauce).
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Nasi kunyit/ kuning The name of the dish is translated as ‘turmeric/yellow rice’. However, it is actually glutinous rice. It is usually cooked for special events such as the birth of a baby. Eaten with meat curry or rendang, it makes for an indulgent treat as well, since the stickiness of the rice goes very well with the rich and spicy curry.
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Chicken rice Brought to Malaysia by Chinese traders, the dish from Hainan province constitutes boiled and steamed chicken, with the rice cooked in chicken stock. Highly popular with the young and old alike, the Malaysian version of chicken rice balls and Malaystyle nasi ayam (which uses star anise in rice and chicken fried in spices) is also available.
Nasi dagang A specialty of the East Coast states of Terengganu and Kelantan, it is usually eaten for breakfast. A story was told that a reigning monarch invited Bugis traders for a visit to Terengganu. (Hint: ‘trader’ is pedagang in Malay.) As the visitors were busy preparing their traditional dish to be presented to the King, an announcement stating that the King is making his rounds threw the Buginese delegation into a panic. In a hurry, they improvised. However, the King was so impressed that he asked for the dish — christened ‘Nasi Orang Dagang’ — to be served as breakfast the next day.
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Yong chow/ yangzhou fried rice Like chicken rice, this dish is also brought into the country by the Chinese traders. It is a staple of many restaurants in the country including Malay warungs (small stalls), going by the name nasi goreng cina (Chinese fried rice).
Nasi campur During lunchtime, many white-collar workers can be seen milling around various food stalls, restaurants and cafĂŠs, poring over trays of dishes to take for the day. Mixed rice, as its name implies, is a filling meal comprising white rice and a combination of two or three sides of meats and vegetables. The Chinese community refers to the same dish as economy rice or chap fan. It is available almost anywhere, and its popularity is due to its versatility and value for money.
Nasi kandar Its birthplace is Penang and its name obtained from the act of sellers of yore who would peddle it on foot, carrying baskets hung on the kandar pole over their shoulder. Today, nasi kandar is served mostly in family-owned chain restaurants.
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Nasi goreng Every Malaysian family and household will have its own fried rice recipe. What makes it so well-loved is the fact that leftovers and overnight rice can easily be turned into a sumptuous dish or a simple comfort food.
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Text by: Sharifah Arfah Syed Mestaddin
Adventure Travel
Photo: Sharifah Arfah/Tourism Malaysia
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Gua Musang An Adventure with Nature KELANTAN
Gua Musang
Thanks to Tourism Malaysia, Destination Malaysia recently embarked on an ‘eco journey’ to Gua Musang, one of Kelantan’s most fascinating ecotourism hubs. Here’s what we discovered during the memorable trip. You have done it all: Beach and seaside jaunts. Visits to famous historic sites. Bed and breakfast in that far-flung town. If you are still yearning for a novel or off-the-beatenpath experience, Kelantan is an ideal choice. For starters, head to Gua Musang, the state’s largest and southernmost district, where environmentally friendly tourism practices are in full swing. Gua Musang means ‘Cave of the Fox’ in Malay — even its very name is tinged with mystery and adventure! It is a wonderful getaway for those who want to recharge their batteries while embracing nature. The district’s main town, also called Gua Musang, is quaint and laid-back, not unlike many other small towns in Malaysia in terms of basic amenities. Other settlements in the district include Kuala Betis and Bertam. It is worth visiting Gua Musang town and district if you intend to explore Kelantan. Here are some of the most talked-about and visited places of interest in Gua Musang.
Limestone outcrops covered in tropical vegetation dot the scenery of the journey to the homestay.
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ETHNOBOTANY GARDEN (TAMAN ETNOBOTANI) It is situated in the vicinity of Ethnobotany PLKN Camp (Kem PLKN Etnobotani) along the Gua Musang–Kuala Lipis Road. Visitors to the 35-hectare site can get to know and learn more about various types of herbs and plants that are just brimming with medicinal and healing properties. Exploring the garden may take several days as it houses 180 plant species! Besides the more commonly used herbs such as Kaduk, Cekur Manis and Bunga Kantan (Torch Ginger), there are also some which are less frequently seen and in very high demand, such as Tongkat Ali.
There are some with superweird names such as Sekentut (translated as ‘a fart’), Lidah Jin (‘jinn’s tongue’), and Meroyan Tua (‘clinical depression in the elderly’)! Handy tip: Visitors can request for a guided tour, but this must be done in advance especially if there’s a large group.
TOKONG SWEE NYET This ancient temple is situated at Kampung Pulai, about 15 km from Gua Musang town. Also known as Tokong Mek, it signifies the arrival of the Chinese to the state in 1429. In the temple is a picture of the Goddess Kuan Yin, brought from China by the first group of Chinese Buddhists who arrived that year. It is said that the immigrants brought the picture to protect themselves from harm during their voyage. In 1941, the temple was damaged after being burnt by the Japanese army. It was rebuilt in 1971. Apart from its historical significance, you can also enjoy detailed photo op as its architecture and colour schemes are very unique. Moreover, what makes it a standout is the fact that it is a heritage that represents the longevity of the Chinese community in the district and the state.
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Hiking is a perfect activity due to the presence of lush tropical forest around the homestay. destinationmalaysia
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KAMPUNG REDIP POS HAU One of the best ways to experience Gua Musang is by visiting the Orang Asli village. The experience is far removed from busy city life and is a perfect way to switch off and de-stress from the hectic daily grind. If this sounds right up your alley, plan the trip to Kampung Redip Pos Hau right in the heart of the tropical rainforest of Gua Musang district. The settlement of Kampung Redip Pos Hau comprises Orang Asli mainly of the Temiar stock.
As of 2014, the Orang Asli population stands at roughly 140,000. They mainly stay at various Orang Asli settlements in the interior rainforest areas while a minority stays at rural settlements near towns and cities.
Billed ‘Penginapan@Kampung Stay’, it incorporates authentic bamboo hut-style lodgings, cultural dance shows and forest hikes among others. Each chalet can accommodate two lodgers. There is running water and electricity too. How to get there: travel to Gua Musang town and then make your way to Kuala Betis which is about 25 km away. From there, take a four-wheel drive to Kampung Redip Pos Hau. The journey from Kuala Betis to the village takes about 2 hours.
PRICE A three-day two-night stay at the village will cost RM200 (chalet) and RM120 (tent) per head, excluding food and transportation. The package includes cultural show, jungle trekking, traditional food demo, traditional snare demo and blowpipe demo. Expect to pay an additional fee of RM20 per head per day for food and drink, and RM250 for a one-way four-wheel-drive trip.
THINGS YOU CAN DO AT KAMPUNG REDIP POS HAU • Hiking is definitely the numero uno activity on the list. Its thick vegetation may seem mysterious and foreboding, but you will understand why the Orang Asli are closely tied to the land they live on. Apart from food source, the forest is where they get their medicine and materials for building their houses. Among the flora you may find are Rafflesia kerrii, a species of the family that includes the world’s biggest flower, Rafflesia arnoldii.
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SAFETY TIPS AND REMINDERS FOR KAMPUNG REDIP STAY • This trip will give you the chance to disconnect from the hubbub of city life and its gadgets. However, should you need to make a call, etc, do note that cellphone signals at the village are intermittent. • Electricity is available but may be rationed especially during the day, so bring a powerbank with you to avoid running out of smartphone battery during critical moments, eg taking that Instagram-worthy picture. • Be prepared. If you want to indulge in outdoor activities such as hiking and enjoying the waterfalls, bring appropriate gears, hiking shoes and attire such as breathable cotton tops, hardy trousers and swimsuits. • Gears that will really help are trekking poles/ hiking sticks. It will help keep you balanced during the hikes at inclines. Hiking gloves are highly recommended as well, to grip on sharp rock formations and coarse tree barks. • Protect your skin and wear sunscreen. The jungles have a very tropical vegetation and weather. This means that there are plenty of mosquitoes and other pests to bother you. Bring an insect repellent, and be alert to creeping forest floor dwellers such as the poisonous centipedes. • Never venture into the forest without a competent guide, for you can get lost and some paths aren’t visible. For a fee, you can hire an experienced Orang Asli as a guide.
• You can dine on boiled or grilled cassava, which is a staple for the Orang Asli, and supplemented with chicken and fish baked in bamboo. Washed down with coconut water straight from the fruit, it makes a light but satisfying meal. • In the evening, try your luck with a game called ‘Tuju Tin’. The game comprises two teams, team A and team B, each with team members numbering anywhere from three to 10.
In the middle of these two teams is a formation of empty tins numbering anywhere between six and 15, arranged in a pyramid. Team A will hit the tin formation with a ball or anything handy and
once it is down, team A must rearrange the tins before team B ‘attacks’ team A members by throwing the ball at them, and prevents them from building the tin formation again.
• At night, try the ‘Persembahan Sewang’ comprising the traditional dances and singing sessions. • You can also — for fun — try and test your skills with a sumpit (blowpipe), which is the traditional Orang Asli weapon used for hunting. • Buy some craft and handiworks by the Orang Asli villagers; they are finely made and not easily available elsewhere.
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DOWN TO THE BASICS: THE ORANG ASLI The Orang Asli (translation: original people) are the indigenous people of Malaysia. The term refers to people who originally inhabit Peninsular Malaysia long before the other races, especially the majority (Malays), migrated from other parts of the region. The Orang Asli can be divided into three main groups: Negrito (residing mostly in the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia), Proto-Malays (found in southern Peninsular Malaysia) and Senoi (central Peninsular Malaysia). Under the three main groups, the Orang Asli can be divided into 18 sub-groups such as Bateq, Jah Hut, Mah Meri and Jakun. As of 2014, the Orang Asli population stands at roughly 140,000. They mainly stay at various Orang Asli settlements in the interior rainforest areas while a minority stays at rural settlements near towns and cities. Only a small fraction of the Orang Asli lives in major towns and large cities. Farming, livestock rearing and hunting constitute the Orang Asli’s main economic activities. They hunt using blowpipes and also fish. Due to changing times, the Orang Asli have also gained some benefit from mainstream education and diversified their economic mainstay to include small-scale trading and ecotourism.
The lucky ones will find the Rafflesia kerrii in full bloom due to the seasonal nature of its growth.
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BASIC INFORMATION So, are you ready to leave for Gua Musang? Read the piece below for practical info.
GETTING THERE BY ROAD: It is about 4 hours non-stop if you take a bus or car. Express buses are the cheapest mode of transportation to Gua Musang, with not more than RM50 for an adult on a one-way trip. There are plenty of bus companies or reputable coach operators which ply the KL–Gua Musang route. You can also charter a private taxi and the charge can be a flat rate or by the number of kilometres travelled. Alternatively, you can hire a car from an established company, but don’t forget the GPS. BY RAIL: Train services to Gua Musang are available and run by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB). BY FLIGHT: There’s no airport in Gua Musang and flights only land in Kota Bharu, the state capital. You can opt to fly to Kota Bharu and get a land transport as Gua Musang is at least 2½ hours south of Kota Bharu by land.
EXPLORE THE TOWN There’s good news for those who are into physical activities. The Ethnobotany PLKN Camp has facilities for recreational activities such as abseiling, rock climbing and flying fox. Rock climbing is highly recommended, as there are many dramatic limestone outcrops in Gua Musang and the camp area. For a good measure of relaxation, visit the newly opened spa a stone’s throw away.
BEST TIME TO GO April is when the monsoon rains end. From then till October is the best time, for it is dry. This condition will make it easier for you to explore the rainforest areas. The season is also well-known for fruits such as durian, rambutan and mangosteen.
USEFUL CONTACT
Persatuan Malim Gunung Kelantan (PMGK) is a reputable tour agency that can help arrange the whole trip for you. They can even personalize it, for a fee. Contact +6019-979 1099 for details.
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Text by: Wan Norlelawati Wan Abdul Aziz/Sharifah Arfah
Adventure Travel
Photo: Wan Norlelawati Wan Abdul Aziz/Azyan Alias
4WD Expedition
to Jerangkang Falls
Travel notes to rev up your adventurous side! GOING ON A FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE (4WD) ADVENTURE IS A GREAT WAY TO EXPLORE THE OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK TERRITORIES OF MALAYSIA.
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Coral Dive Recreation, a provider of such adventure tours, in partnership with 4 x 4 Trekker Club under GC Media Corporation recently took Destination Malaysia on an excursion to Jerangkang Falls. The breathtaking beauty of this natural jewel promises to awaken even the most dormant explorers’ instincts! Located in the state of Pahang, it comprises a series of near-vertical waterfalls nestled within the pristine rainforest reserve of Hutan Lipur Jerangkang (Jerangkang Recreational Forest).
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GETTING THERE Jerangkang Falls can be reached via the Kuala Lumpur–Kuantan Road. About 30 km after passing the town of Maran, turn left upon seeing the signboard pointing to ‘Hutan Lipur Jerangkang’. The road leads through rubber plantations and passes through the underpass beneath the new Kuala Lumpur–Kuantan Highway, a portion of the East Coast Expressway. An offroad vehicle is needed for the last part of the route, but this may change as work is in progress on the access road. The location of the falls is in the vicinity of Kampung Paya Bungor, Maran, Pahang (map/GPS coordinates: N03° 46.58’ E102° 56.26’/approx. 3.5840530000, 102.7830650000).
The road condition is Level 1, which means the off-road drive is light and comfortable for those who have never experienced 4 x 4 excursions.
TASTES AND SIGHTS ALONG THE JOURNEY Our group, comprising eight individuals including the drivers, comes from different backgrounds. All of us have one thing in common, though: a shared interest in outdoor challenges! We gathered at the Gombak Police Station by 9 am one fine August morning, marking the starting point of our journey. It wasn’t long before the troop had a first layover — along the Old Karak Road — and it’s absolutely recommended! One can take a break by patronizing the various roadside stalls selling seasonal fruits such as durian and rambutan. destinationmalaysia
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Upon exiting Maran toll, the group passed Kampung Paya Rambutan in Tasik Bungor at 1.15 pm. Lush greenery and verdant clumps of tropical greens dot the way, and small village houses lend a quaint and scenic view. From Jalan Raya Rambutan, the exploration to Sungai Jerangkang took us through 4 km of rough gravelly road. It was a bumpy ride! Thankfully, the absence of rain that day as well as the previous day was a godsend. Otherwise, the party would not have been able to make a few stops along the way, stepping out of the car to take photos and enjoy the scenery. According to the team leader, the road condition is Level 1, which means the off-road drive is light and comfortable for those who have never experienced 4 x 4 excursions.
The breathtaking beauty of this natural jewel promises to awaken even the most dormant explorers’ instincts!
ROUGHING IT IN THE WILDERNESS By 2 pm, we arrived at the ‘Jerangkang Waterfall’ signage at the foot of the falls, where our campsite is located. There is no vehicle access beyond this point. Uphill trekking from the campsite to the falls takes about 1 to 2 hours. Due to the heavy loads of camping equipment, tent and food that we brought, it was nearimpossible to carry everything on foot. Therefore, the team agreed to try and look for alternative access to get to the top waterfall. Determining the best off-road routes requires expert driving knowledge. The team spirit really shone through as each of us helped the driver to manoeuvre the car without hitting rocks and other obstacles.
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Nevertheless, despite our best efforts, we made very little headway. The team decided the best option would be to return to the campsite. However, visitors who are capable of tackling the uphill terrain by foot can reach the spectacular cascading waters by following hiking trails alongside the river. These paths are clearly marked and will lead them towards the top.
Our group comprises eight individuals who come from different backgrounds. and even had a heavenly dip in the river. On the whole, it was a great onenight adventure, thanks to the organisers who are professional in every sense of the word. A thrilling journey, an unforgettable camping experience and fun times were had by all.
CAMPING APPEAL The main campsite is of considerable size. Stone tables and benches are scattered around the compound for hikers to use. Basic facilities such as shelters for cooking and dining as well as washrooms are also provided. As the area is just beside the river, water is easily available. Although there is no large pool to swim in, the campsite is a perfect place to chill and meditate after spending hours on the road. After unloading our belongings and organising the sleeping beds, we surveyed the surroundings
On such trips with people of different backgrounds and interests, it can be challenging to keep to a schedule and fixed itinerary. However, we had many great moments, proving that 4 x 4 trips do promote a sense of kinship and camaraderie. BE AN ECO-WARRIOR, NOT A LITTERBUG Last but not least, a note on keeping our environment clean. We were saddened to notice that some parts of the trails and forest floor were littered with irresponsibly discarded rubbish, such as plastic bottles and remains of food wrappers. This serves as a reminder to take all trash back with us to be disposed of properly. Useful tip: when planning an adventure in the great outdoors, include bin bags in your checklist of things to bring.
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Text by: Sharifah Arfah Syed Mestaddin
Family Holiday
LEGO NINJAGO The Ride
Photo: LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort & Edelman (M) PR Worldwide
State-of-the-art 4D attraction at LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort A magnet for fun and entertainment, it’s a favourite family holiday destination down south, and it has just upped the ante: LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort has introduced LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, the first of its kind in Asia!
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NINJAGO Kai
With an investment of over RM40 million — considered the largest additional investment since the Resort’s opening in 2012 — LEGO NINJAGO The Ride is set to redefine the theme park experience for visitors. LEGO NINJAGO The Ride is a fully immersive four-dimensional dark-ride inspired by the highly popular LEGO NINJAGO toy sets and TV series. Up to four guests sit in each ride vehicle and they are guided through various scenes, encountering villains and challenges. Effects such as heat, smoke and wind will be felt throughout the adventure, giving guests the ultimate 4D experience. To allow patrons to further soak up the atmosphere, they can choose their favourite character to defeat the archenemies of LEGO NINJAGO, such as snakes, ghosts, skeletons and the Great Devourer who is the pupil of Master Wu.
But the real highlight of LEGO NINJAGO The Ride is its hand gesture technology. The ride enables guests to use their hands to throw virtual lightning bolts, move shockwaves, send ice soaring and emit fireballs with incredible accuracy. Hi-tech sensors register the movements with great accuracy and seamlessly launch virtual projectiles towards the targets on display. Participants can view their individual scores at the end of the quest.
NINJAGO Cole
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NINJAGO Jay
All these movement-based interaction is made possible by a unique hand gesture technology manufactured by Triotech, a leader in media-based interactive attractions. General Manager (Interim) of LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort, Young Pil-Kim, said that LEGO NINJAGO The Ride is among several planned additions meant to take the Resort to the next level. “We’ve always believed in introducing new additions to the Resort every year to ensure that every visit is a new one. This ride is a little special because of the large investment that went
NINJAGO Lloyd
with it, but it should point to our commitment to bring state-ofthe-art play to the region — the way only LEGOLAND can. And we’re not stopping here. LEGO fans can look forward to plenty of exciting things to come from us for 2017.
CONSTRUCT THESE BRICKTASTIC FACTS!
“These are exciting times for LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort. LEGO NINJAGO is an incredibly popular brand and we’re proud to be the first to bring this experience to Asia. The LEGO brand inspires people to grow through play and it is this commitment that breathes life into the attractions we have at LEGOLAND. We’ve taken a few steps in the right direction here, as LEGO NINJAGO The Ride takes immersion and play to a whole other level.”
With its amazing array of latest attractions, including shows like the LEGO Movie 4D: A New Adventure screening at the LEGO Studios, action-packed games such as tube racing and Build-A-Raft, party themes, exclusive LEGO character appearances and karaoke night, the Resort scores a hit with the young and the young at heart!
Located in Medini, Iskandar Puteri (Nusajaya), Johor, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort is designed for families with children aged 2–12.
The Resort was awarded the Best Tourist Attraction in the Man-made Attraction/ Theme Park category at the prestigious Malaysia Tourism Awards 2014/2015, and ranked No 1 in the TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Award 2016 as the first-choice family hotel in Malaysia.
For more information, visit LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort’s official website www.legoland.com.my or call +607-597 8888. Stay connected with its social handles (Facebook & Twitter) to find out more about online promotions.
NINJAGO Zane
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Ecotourism
KL Forest Eco Park
Photo: Hairul Izwan/Azyan Alias
Ecological haven in the big city
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Savour a slice of tropical rainforest paradise in Kuala Lumpur, quite possibly the world’s only cosmopolitan city with a natural heritage that is hundreds of years old! KL Forest Eco Park, formerly Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, is located in the centre of Kuala Lumpur between Jalan Ampang and Jalan Raja Chulan. The park was gazetted in 1906, marking it as one of the oldest permanent forest reserves in the country. At present, it has an area of approximately 9.3 hectares.
A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY The area sits on what is commonly known as Bukit Nanas (literally translated as ‘Pineapple Hill’), hence the park’s previous name of ‘Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve’. In days of yore, it is said that a Malay aristocrat’s house was situated on the hill, and he used to plant plenty of pineapple plants around his house to deter his enemies.
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GETTING THERE There are three entrances to the park — at Jalan Ampang, Jalan Raja Chulan, and via the KL Tower entrance. The Jalan Ampang entry is situated near the Bukit Nanas Monorel station, while the KL Tower entry is accessible within the grounds of the KL Tower. There is an information centre just off Jalan Raja Chulan, the third entryway to the forest. There are small-scale models of a tropical rainforest and free brochures, so this option is great for those who want to gather as much information as possible before alighting on the forest jaunt. The best option for disabled access is through the KL Tower entry, where those in wheelchairs can even go through a section of the canopy walk.
UNIQUENESS Upon entering the park and walking along the trail, visitors will see how dense and primordial the forest is. Although there are changes through time, the originality of the green lung is still intact. The rainforest is classified as a lowland dipterocarp forest. Dipterocarps are the most common family of rainforest trees in the country, although there are plenty of non-dipterocarp trees as well. (The term dipterocarp comes from the word ‘Dipterocarpaceae’, a scientific name given to a family of trees bearing seeds with two wings.) The park is considered unique due to the fact that it is the only remaining tropical rainforest that still exists in the middle of the city.
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Nature enthusiasts can get up close to look at various common species of tropical rainforest trees such as Jelutong (Dyera costulata) and Sentul (Santol/Cottonwood; Sandoricum koetjape). Vulnerable and threatened species such as Merawan Siput Jantan (Ta-khian; Hopea odorata), Meranti (Light Red Meranti; Shorea leprosula), and Pulai
Lilin (Hard Milkwood/ Siamese Balsa; Alstonia spathulata) are also present. There was a cable car service sometime in the mid-70s, which was discontinued in 1981. The remnants of the structure that housed the cable — near the information centre of Jalan Raja Chulan — have been converted into an office.
FACILITIES There are paved walkways for the avid walkers and hikers but do be careful as some stretches are quite steep and without handrails. Toilets, an open field for picnicking and a multipurpose hall for group activities are also available.
THINGS TO DO A must-try is the park’s spectacular canopy walkway. The length from beginning to end is 200 metres, and
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ECOTOURISM
the height of the tallest canopy is about 5 storeys high. The walk is perfect for enjoying the view of nearby attractions and buildings such as KL Tower, St. John’s Institution (an established secondary school) and office buildings nearby. Birdwatchers will be able to get a better view of bird species at the forest canopy and emergent layers.
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ENTRANCE FEE Entry is free although it is understood and communicated to this writer that an admission fee will be imposed by early 2017. At press time, the amount is to be confirmed.
VISITING HOURS 7.00 am to 6.00 pm daily. Weekends are popular and it tends to get very crowded, so do plan your schedule to make the best of your visit.
CONTACT Forestry Department Information Centre
Jalan Raja Chulan
50250 Kuala Lumpur
+603-2070 6342
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112 Text by: Sharifah Arfah Syed Mestaddin Photo: East Indies Mansion
Hotel Highlights
East Indies Mansion Immersed in grandeur and history Linear and modern architecture is usually the order of the day when it comes to hotels. Smaller hotels have their own charm and ambience too. If this is your thing, you might want to try the East Indies Mansion in George Town during your visit to Penang. The building embraces the design of large mansions popular with Chinese merchants in the 1800s. Even the street where the lodging is located is steeped in history: The East Indies Mansion is situated in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
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AN ILLUSTRIOUS HISTORY Before the ‘mansions’ of Gurney Drive and Kelawei Road, there were the ‘elite residences’ of Lebuh China or China Street. The street name is derived from its occupants — the large number of Chinese merchants and traders who resided here. The hotel’s address — No. 25 China Street — was originally the residence of Koh Lay Huan, Penang’s first Kapitan Cina (the title given to leaders of overseas Chinese enclaves in South East Asia). In 1846, the residence was owned by Chung Keng Kwee, the Kapitan Cina of Perak, the leader of the powerful Hai San Society who controlled 15,000 coolies and most of the tin mines in Larut, Perak. The next owner of the property is Ong Boon Keng, who is a successful and wellconnected merchant. The house remained in the possession of Ong and his family for 40 years before it was sold off through a tender to Hong Seng Estate leader Han Quing Xiang. In the 1930s, a wealthy Indian businessman purchased it and No. 25 mainly became a hostel for migrant workers from India. No. 25 eventually passed on to the hands of the Great Eastern Life Insurance Company and was marked for demolition in 2000. However, the Penang Heritage Trust issued a stopwork order due to its heritage values. The mansion was left unoccupied. In 2005, the mansion was bought by David and Rebecca Wilkinson. With the help of heritage experts and skilled craftsmen, it was restored to its former glory. The recent makeover took place over a two-year period, restoring the building to capture its original magnificence, but subtly adding everything needed for modern living such as new plumbing and electrical wiring. The transformation is cited as “a model of restoration” by George Town World Heritage Incorporated, the State body appointed to safeguard George Town’s UNESCO Heritage status. After being inundated by requests for guided tours, the Wilkinsons opened the house to visitors. destinationmalaysia
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HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS With respect to its outward appearance, the house is shaped in the manner of a three-bay house, so named as it is designed to look like there are three houses along its length. The first thing that will strike visitors is the element of spaciousness. An open courtyard as well as strategic placements of windows and doors contribute to the mansion’s openness. In total, there are 64 pairs of doors and window shutters. The interior layout of the house is based on the original Fujian, deep courtyard arrangement. Balconies, thick load-bearing walls with limewash finish, timber supports, high ceilings and open courtyards provide plenty of natural light. The wood-fired terracotta tile floors, natural ventilation and rising levels of the house provide good feng shui. The sense of tranquility also comes from artistic elements incorporated into the surroundings. Master craftsmen have painstakingly and skilfully created classical pictures of birds, fishes and vases using the traditional broken chinaware mosaic friezes (‘chien nein’) method. The most remarkable of these comprise two long-tailed phoenixes, and a central scene showing the eight immortals.
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Come & Discover MALAYSIA’S AMAZING TROPICAL BEACHES
Destination Malaysia Fishing village, Terengganu
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HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS
ROOMS WITH CHARACTER With a built-up area of about 1,000 sq metres, the house has six halls and 12 rooms spread over two floors. Great care has been taken to ensure all the rooms retain the aura of old-world Straits Chinese elegance. The rooms are divided into Cinnamon, Anistar, Nutmeg and Clove suites. They all come with complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee and tea-making facilities, bottled water and air-conditioner. Nutmeg A and B: Sleeps two with a king-sized bed. It also has an attached bathroom. Nutmeg C: Sleeps three with a kingsized bed and a single bed in a loft. Cinnamon 1 and 2: Ideal for families or travellers looking for a large quarter, this suite is a two-storey duplex with a king-sized bed and a queen-sized bed that comfortably sleeps four persons. The only difference between suite 1 and 2 is the size (Cinnamon 2 is 5 sq metres larger). Anistar 1 and 2: Both are single bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. The difference between the two is that the former sleeps five (a king-sized bed, a queen-sized bed and a rollaway single bed) while the latter sleeps four (a queensized bed, a single bed and a rollaway single bed). Clove 1 and 2: The former comes with separate shower and bathtub, and sleeps four people (two queen beds; one of them at the cockloft) while the latter has a private non-attached bathroom and sleeps two people.
EAST INDIES MANSION
No. 25 Lebuh China 10200 George Town, Penang +604-261 8025 reservations@eastindieshotel.com www.eastindieshotel.com
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