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EDITORIAL

ADVERTISING SOLUTIONS

Editor-In-Chief Barbara Koh

Team Lead Raphael Chong Title Lead, Account Director Chelsea Lam

Features Editor Natalya Molok Beauty Editor Arissa Ha Digital Lead Elizabeth Liew Contributing Sub-Editor Simone Wu

Head, Beauty Gwendolyn Ho Angeline Ang, Eileen Mah, Jeleen Rondon

Senior Art Director Ivy Choong Designer Xu Mei Yan Chief Photographer Veronica Tay Executive Photographers Frenchescar Lim, Tan Wei Te Photographers Darren Chang, Vee Chin, Phyllicia Wang Videographer Alicia Chong

Watches & Jewellery Lynette Foo, Kimberly Tong, Calista Ang

Group Editor Tara Barker

MEET THE TEAM

Brand New Year, brand new start Raphael Chong

Head, Fashion Rachel Chin Gloria Koh, Claudia Lam, Amber Woon

Head, Fashion & Special Projects Rachel Chin Gloria Koh, Claudia Lam, Joan Ong, Amber Woon Head, Supermarkets & FMCG Grace Chua Reginald Ho, Jasmine Lim, Fion Yip, Kevin Sim Head, Malls Sean Chen Enn Shen, Rachel Ng, Jasmine Kok

General Manager, Business Solutions

What are you looking forward to in 2020? “There’s too many depressing news recently, and I hope we can all do our part to spread happiness and positivity to everyone, even in times of despair. I’m not here to change the world but I know a bitter person can never be successful.” 2020 will be the year of… “… renewed hopes, new beginnings and prosperity for everyone.” What are your New Year’s resolutions? “Every day when I wake up, I try to remind myself that I live in abundance. And to always be grateful to everyone and for everything that has shaped me into a better person.”

Group Marketing (Magazines), Team Head Lin Shao Mei Senior Marketing Manager Fion Ng Senior Marketing Executive Jasmine Chua Marketing Administrator Cynthia Ong Head, Media Production Management Alice Chee Assistant Manager Lin Feng Senior Executive, Editorial Support Wendy Wong Executive, Editorial Support Rani Nadarajah

Alicia Tan Executive, Ad Operations

What are you looking forward to in 2020? “Penning down resolutions in my planner with coloured sharpies. It feels good to fill up an empty page with my to-do list for the year – it’s like a fresh start!” 2020 will be the year of… “… self-care. I broke my foot in 2019, and it took a toll on my physical and mental health as I had to make adjustments to my daily life. I hope to do better for my body this year.” What are your New Year’s resolutions? “I want to take better care of myself; to build my stamina by trying new sports, eating cleaner, being less critical of myself and start making more effort to discover new things.”

Chief Executive Officer Maureen Wee Group Editor-in-Chief Caroline Ngui Vice President, Human Resources Irene Lee

For sales enquiries, please contact Maggie at magadpromo@sph.com.sg

The Singapore Women’s Weekly is published monthly by SPH Magazines Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Singapore Press Holdings. 1000 Toa Payoh North, News Centre Level 8, Annexe Block, Singapore 318994, Telephone (65) 6319 6319; Email: sww@sph.com.sg. Printed by Times Printers Pte Ltd. Distributed by Singapore Press Holdings Ltd. The Singapore Women’s Weekly shall not, without written consent of the publisher, be given, lent, resold, hired out or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any unauthorised cover by way of trade; or affixed to or as part of any publication or advertising, literary or pictorial matter whatsoever. We welcome features from contributors but no responsibility is accepted for lost material. The publisher retains all rights and total ownership of reader contributions, once published. All prices are approximate and are in Singapore dollars unless otherwise stated. Circulation hotline: 6388 3838. COPYRIGHT of SPH Magazines Pte Ltd MICA (P) 080/03/2019 ISSN 0219-0974

Editor’s Letter When a new year arrives, we inadvertently decide to make it the time to start afresh, on a clean slate. We put forth new dreams and desires – to eat healthier, get fitter, save more money, spend more time with loved ones, be happier… There’s nothing wrong with that, but these resolutions often get forgotten by March. We start off with the best of intentions, but get caught up with life – with work, obligations, responsibilities. So, instead of a long list of wanna-dos, I’m challenging myself to stick to just ONE goal for 2020. I’ve decided to carve out a bit more time for myself and to use this to embark on solo trips. When I shared this with the family, my son let out a “what?” in dismay (worried he’d be left behind), but thankfully, my husband gave me the thumb’s up and could see that it was something that would benefit my well-being. Whatever you decide, we’re here to help. Perhaps you want to make it a year to build your wealth, or to be more productive with your time, Or maybe it’s a year you want to invest in taking care of your skin (don’t miss our Best of Beauty award winners from pg 29), or to stride out with more confidence. Whatever your choice, we have the solutions, tips and advice for you all through this issue. To celebrate the Lunar New Year, we’ve got 16 pages of delicious recipes family and friends will love. It’s a bonus treat for you, our readers, as we wish you good health and prosperity in 2020.

Barbara Koh Editor-in-Chief

JANUARY 2020

14 ON THE COVER january 2020 | 8 | womensweekly.com.sg

62 6

Every issue

Inform m 10

What's Abuzz Get your hands on our Golden Globes Bingo card, and learn more about Keanu’s girlfriend Standing Strong Vivian Lai on choosing positivity, and her love for her tea business

20 The Game Changers Join us to celebrate the accomplishments of the winners in 2019’s Great Women Of Our Time 24

Oh, What A Night! What went down as we celebrated the Great Women Of Our Time 2019 Awards Presentation and Cocktail Night

Lookbook 29

2020’s Best Beauty Buys Tried-and-loved, bestof-the-best beauty products that redefine beauty standards and help you feel your most beautiful at any age

7 12 97 98

54 54

Secret Garden Do florals in lush fabrics and interesting textures

Colour Me Lucky Step into the New Year in these brilliant and bold shades

Finishing Touches 21 Stories’ Jeneen Goh shares accessorising tips to transform your outfit

Ready, Set, Goal! Three women share useful tips on how you can achieve success

Back On Track Married, divorced or single? Time to take control of your finances

The Year Of the Rat Our expert astrologer reveals the luck forecast for Chinese zodiac signs in 2020

10 Fast, Effective Ways to Tone Up Bite-sized exercises can do more than save time

JUST FOR YOU

Celebrate 78

Prosperity Cookies Make scrumptious biscuits for loved ones, or just because

Feast of Flavours Impressive recipes to level up your CNY reunion feasts

Make Pineapple Tarts A step-by-step guide to perfect pineapple tarts from The Way of Kueh

Inspire 67

Editor’s Letter Cover Style Your Get-it Guide Share A Secret

PLUS Cookcards To Collect:

Tummy-warming rice bowls that bring comfort and joy

january 2020 | 9 | womensweekly.com.sg

WIN!

5 beauty hampers worth over $3,000 each! More details on page 50

THE BUZZ What we’re all talking about this month

Golden Globes Bingo

Whether you’re watching the awards ceremony solo or with a group off ffriends, cross off the things that you see on the Bingo card below and keep the fun going!

Winner pulls out a speech on-stage

Donald Trump is mentioned

Presenter takes off their shoes

Stranger Things kids do something adorable

Ellen DeGeneres cries

Someone thanks their mum

Someone drops an F-bomb

Wardrobe Wonder

Taiwanese superstar Jay Chou will be performing in town on January 10 and 11, and we can’t wait to see what he’ll wear on stage. Take a look at his past concert costumes that put the fun in functional!

Renee Zellweger actually shows up

Netflix shows win big

Anyone is caught sleeping on camera

Host Ricky Gervais impersonates anyone

Someone falls on stage

Speech gets cut off with music

Speech turns political

Presenter takes a drink on stage

Fleabag’s Phoebe Waller-Bridge wins anything

A winner exits the stage in the wrong direction

Nominee’s name is mispronounced

“My kids are watching at home” Film co-stars are romantically linked

T We love a headto-toe leather outfit in angelic white T Go for gold if you because it makes want to make a big him look divine! impression like Jay here who never hits a bum note.

X A little bit of fringe never hurt anybody, except if you’re Jay’s backup dancers. T Jay doesn’t just get dressed up, he makes sure his pianos are in costume too.

S Black doesn’t have to be boring. Go with contrasting fabrics and textures, and accents of purple.

january 2020 | 10 | womensweekly.com.sg

THE BUZZ

Who’s That

K-Popping

Here are the wealthiest K-pop groups in the industry right now, based on the findings from Forbes and Money magazine: What you should know about the woman who captured Keanu Reeves’ heart

Girl?

1. She’s a visual artist: More than just his arm candy, Alexandra Grant graduated with a Master in Fine Arts in Drawing and Painting from the California College of the Arts in 2000.

million

BTS: Is it any surprise that Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, RM, Jin and Jingkook are the kings of K-pop?

Blackpink: YG Entertainment’s shining stars, this female quartet were the first K-pop girl group to perform at Coachella.

4. She’s a feminist: Alexandra has peppered her Instagram feed with photos of her at the Women’s March in 2017 to protest against Donald Trump’s presidency. 5. She’s an ordained minister: If she wanted to, she could legally marry herself to Keanu because in June 2019, she got her ordained minister license.

million

Twice: While K-pop girl groups have a harder climb to the top, TWICE idols are some of the most popular in South Korea.

2. She’s well-travelled: Alexandra grew up in Mexico, France and Spain, and that could be the reason why her artwork deals a lot with language. 3. She’s known Keanu for a while: The two have been friends for years, working together in 2011 on a book before co-founding a publishing house called X Artists’ Books in 2017.

million

TVXQ: They may be veterans in the K-pop industry but TVXQ still know how to sell out stadiums.

million

Revealing

COMPILED BY: NATALYA MOLOK / PHOTOS: TPG NEWS/INSTAGRAM: @TEAMCOCO

Resolutions

Lose weight? Save money? These celebs tell us the resolutions they're really making

Use less sweetener in my coffee - Nicole Kidman

To get smaller underwear - Drew Barrymore

I want to gain a lot of abdominal weight. That way I’m not disappointed - Conan O’Brien

Just don’t spend any money - Kylie Jenner

EXO: This is a conservative estimate based on their latest album pre-sales and doesn’t even take into account their multibrand endorsement deals.

Bidding on an epic art piece with two Russian hound dogs in tow; total Kitty Pong flair! - Fiona Xie

No New Year’s resolution, I am perfect - Ed Westwick

january 2020 | 11 | womensweekly.com.sg

estimated

1.3

million

Pink Power

Riva ring, $825, from Monica Vinader.

Andi canteen bag, $580, from Kate Spade New York.

Recreate Vivian Lai’s ethereal look with soft, romantic ruffles, anchored by geometric accessories Embers sunglasses, $420, from Jimmy Choo.

Lace openshoulder dress, $1,325, from Bora Aksu.

WIN!

THE COVER LOOK

Ruffled long dress, $299, from H&M Conscious Exclusive.

Get irl Vivian Lai’s look with Milani Cosmetics. We are giving away five delectable makeup sets, each worth $136.65, comprising Gilded Ember Hyper-pigmented Eye & Face Palette, Classic Color Lipstick in Nude Crème, Rose Blush in Tea Rose, Highly Rated Mascara in black, Stay Put Matte Liquid Eyeliner in Black, and Prime Perfection face primer. Milani Cosmetics is exclusively available at selected Watsons stores.

TO TAKE PART,, VISIT www.womensweekly.com.sg

families of SPH Magazines Pte Ltd and its associated agencies.

january 2020 | 12 | womensweekly.com.sg

COVER PHOTO: JOEL LOW, ASSISTED BY ALFIE PAN / ART DIRECTION: BARBARA KOH / STYLING: NEO LI RONG, ASSISTED BY RIN LOW / HAIR: JENNY LEE/ MONSOON NOVENA SQUARE, ASSISTED BY LEON LI/MINGU X MSTYLIST / MAKEUP: SUHUAN LI / LOCATION: THE ALKAFF MANSION

COVER STYLE

@womensweeklysg @thesingaporewomensweekly

EVERYWHERE for women who want it all www.womensweekly.com.sg

C E L E B R I T Y OUR COVER STAR

Silk blouse from Tory Burch. Wool pants, leather belt, and embroidered wool coat all from Etro. Leather boots from Todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Korean Collective earrings from Net-A-Porter.

After a tumultuous year in the spotlight, Vivian Lai is gunning for a fresh start in 2020 and is out to shut down her critics BY NATALYA MOLOK

C E L E B R I T Y OUR COVER STAR

ivian Lai is pondering life as she waits for her makeup artist to finish applying a slick of lipstick to her carefully made-up face. She then picks up her phone to quickly record an IG story for the benefit of her fans on Instagram. Her doe-like eyes crinkle at the corners when she smiles and she lets out a hearty laugh as she describes getting all dressed up for our January cover shoot. It’s a different and more lighthearted side to the actress, one that has rarely been seen in recent months, as she navigates the pitfalls of her husband’s career troubles. Vivian’s husband, Alain Ong, was deputy group CEO of Pokka Corporation (Singapore) and CEO of Pokka International before he was removed in September 2018 following internal investigations. He no longer works for Pokka, and Vivian, too, has been dropped as the beverage maker’s ambassador.

Keeping Her Chin Up

Criticism is my motivation to do better

Since then, Vivian has taken to reflecting on her life’s path more, and is adamant that she remains in good spirits despite the swift backlash thrown her way when the story was made public last year. “Criticisms are a natural thing. There are people who don’t like me, and that’s their opinion and they are entitled to it. I usually just brush it off and not think about it. To be honest, other people’s criticism is my motivation to do better,” shares the 43-year-old. “It’s all about your mindset. Staying positive isn’t a problem for me at all. I’ve learnt that you just have to separate the important things from the not-so important things in life to do so.”

Family Comes First And what exactly has been the most important to her throughout last year’s messy ordeal? It's no surprise that it’s Vivian's love for her family. “My family is the single most important thing in my life. My family is what makes me a happy and cheerful person,” shares the mother to two girls, Vera, 13 and Ariel, nine. “Due to social media and the way society is today, my children do face a lot of negativity, and to protect them from that, I talk to them often and am always ready to share my advice with them.” So protective is Vivian of her daughters that they were the very reason she decided to break her silence on her family’s troubles last August, even though her husband’s case was still pending in court. “This news happened more than a year ago. Back then, I did not

january 2020 | 16 | womensweekly.com.sg

Dress from Chloe. Leather boots from Todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

My family is the single most important thing in my life

Rotate Birger Christensen ruched crinkled-jacquard mini dress from Net-APorter. Korean Collectives earrings from Net-A-Porter.

C E L E B R I T Y OUR COVER STAR

Holding Her Own While she’s not big on making New Year’s resolutions, Vivian is looking for a fresh start in 2020 and she’s hoping her new bubble tea business, Teabrary, will give her that reboot. She currently has two outlets in Singapore, and others located in Cambodia, China and Taiwan. “Every year, I look forward to a lot of things,” she confesses. “Sometimes, my dreams will come true and sometimes they won’t. I haven’t really acted in a while, so I hope I have the opportunity to take on another movie. But, the thing I’m looking forward to the most, is the growth of my new baby, Teabrary. “I want Teabrary to be found all over the world so I’m in discussions to bring the brand to Europe. On my wish list right now is Paris, Milan and London! If I can achieve this, I’ll be happy. I’m truly enjoying being an entrepreneur but I’d like to make it clear that I’m not leaving the entertainment industry either. I’m a big believer that one needs to truly enjoy what he or she is doing to do it well, and right now, I love going to work every day. “I’m a hard worker," she continues. “And whether in my career or in my personal life, I hope that people can see that I’m putting in the effort to improve this year.”

Paying It Forward More than just putting her face to a brand and collecting a paycheck, Vivian not only wants to build a tea empire, she hopes to empower the farmers she collaborates with and to give back to this group of workers whom she deeply respects. “I like drinking different types of tea, and two years ago I had the chance to meet with tea farmers in Taiwan. The one thing that struck me was that even though they were producing a good product, they didn’t know how to properly (promote) the tea and were losing out (in business) because of that,” explains Vivian. “I can’t say that Teabrary is very successful yet because we’re still new, but at the stage we’re at now, I feel fortunate that I’m able to help improve the lives of the farmers I work with.”

january 2020 | 19 | womensweekly.com.sg

TEA NATION

A self-confessed tea lover, Vivian had sampled thousands of cups of bubble tea for the research and development of Teabrary’s menu. Here are her favourite Teabrary drinks: Taiwan No 12 Jin Xuan Tea: “This tea leaf is difficult to find. When you drink it, you get this buttery-smooth aftertaste.” Sicily Iced Lemon Coffee: “Even though we’re a tea studio, our coffee is fantastic. This is a mix of coffee and lemon juice which is very refreshing.” Shizuoka Matcha Latte: “Waa… I don’t have the words to share how special this drink is.” Teabrary Fresh Fruity: “All the fruits are imported fresh from Taiwan and vacuum packed so you don’t lose any flavour.” Artisanal Crafted Dessert Tea: “All the drinks in this series combine dessert flavours with tea so you get the best of both worlds.”

PHOTOS: JOEL LOW, ASSISTED BY ALFIE PAN / ART DIRECTION: BARBARA KOH / STYLING: NEO LI RONG, ASSISTED BY RIN LOW / HAIR: JENNY LEE/ MONSOON NOVENA SQUARE, ASSISTED BY LEON LI/MINGU X MSTYLIST / MAKEUP: SUHUAN LI / LOCATION: THE ALKAFF MANSION

speak about it because (I wanted) it to be handled through the proper channels. So it was not convenient for me to say too much. Now, a year later… reporters have appeared outside my home, wanting to chase the story,” she revealed. “It has affected the life of my family. I am not just by myself. I have a family. To (my kids), a home should be a warm place where they feel free. (They shouldn’t) feel scared (about) coming home. It might be a difficult time for us now. But no matter what, we will get through it.”

GREAT WOMEN OF OUR TIME

And The Winners Are…

2019

This year’s Great Women Of Our Time award recipients are an audacious bunch and the world is better off because of their work. Join us as we celebrate the achievements of these true game-changers FINANCE & COMMERCE

Val Yap, 31, founder & CEO, PolicyPal

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Dr Andie Ang, 34, research scientist, Wildlife Reserves Singapore Conservation Fund & president, Jane Goodall Institute (Singapore) Dr Andie Ang hopes to pioneer the protection of the Raffles’ Banded Langur monkey in Singapore. She is, after all, also the president of the Jane Goodall Institute in Singapore, a non-profit organisation that encourages the understanding and conservation of great apes. “Primatology isn’t glamorous, it isn’t something that people want to do or talk about, so it’s really heartening that the awards recognise environmental conservation as a field that deserves attention,” says Dr Andie, adding that she wanted to dedicate the award to Subaraj Rajathurai, a veteran wildlife consultant who passed away in October 2019.

Main Presenter

When the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) gives you a helping hand, you can be sure that you’re on the right track. That’s what Val Yap thought when her startup, PolicyPal, became the first graduate of the MAS’s FinTech Sandbox, which allows financial institutions and startups to experiment with promising financial products or services in a supportive environment. “We’ve obviously struck a nerve because PolicyPal has 16 carriers and 50,000 users, and manages insurance premiums worth up to $70 million to date,” explains Val, adding that she appreciates the recognition she’s gotten from the awards. “It means a lot to me and my team because it reflects that the product is relevant to consumers,” she shares. “We hope it can continue to add value to everyone’s life.”

Presenter

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GREAT WOMEN OF OUR TIME

SPORTS, HEALTH & WELLNESS [TIE] Gillian Tee, 37, co-founder & CEO, Homage “We’re just trying to be a bridge in Singapore’s healthcare system,” says Gillian when asked why she started Homage, a home care start-up that connects professional caregivers with seniors who need assistance. The three-year-old company now hosts over 1,000 local caregivers on its online platforms, and works with 20 partners, including hospitals and nursing homes. “I’m grateful and honoured about receiving this accolade but that’s not why I do what I do,” says Gillian. “More than just picking up an award, I’m happy that I got to meet so many women who inspire me with their stories. To have a support network like the Great Women alumni in place is so important in Singapore.”

DESIGN & STYLE

Vivien Leong, in her 40s, consultant, Ipli Architects

Nurshahidah Roslie, 32, professional boxer Strong, independent, and woman are words that get us excited here at The Weekly, and Nurshahidah Roslie ticks all those boxes. Nicknamed “The Sniper” because of her precision in the ring, the boxer had to climb hurdles to get to where she is. “I was overweight as a teenager but I was physically fit and strong. It was only really when I discovered boxing that I really understood what my body could do,” explains the world’s 24thranked women’s super bantamweight boxer. “I wouldn’t be as successful as I have, if it wasn’t for the belief of my family, my friends, and my manager – so I’d like to dedicate my award to them.” Looking ahead, the boxer wants to take a stab at Mixed Martial Arts but stresses that “it’s just a vision at the moment”.

january 2020 | 21 | womensweekly.com.sg

Vivien Leong was the project lead for the team that completed the striking design of Nanyang Technological University’s Learning Hub, which is affectionately known as “The Hive”. “It’s one of Singapore’s most iconic buildings and I’m proud to be a part of it,” says Vivien. “Architecture is often a thankless job. People don’t often remember the architect behind a building but rather the building itself so to be recognised for my contribution is humbling.” She also stood out because she is an advocate for narrowing the gender imbalance in the design industry. “I was once told that men are better architects than women and that enraged me,” she recalls. “Architecture is not about gender. It is about creating solutions and anyone can do that.”

Lucky Charm Make prosperity your arm candy. Usher in the New Year in style and personalise your jewellery with Pandora’s new collection of 12 Chinese Zodiac charms, $99 each; and leather bracelet with shine clasps, $99.

ARTS & MEDIA Tan Kheng Hua, 56, actress-producer

A respected figure in the film industry, Tan Kheng Hua was singled out by the judges as an actress whose contribution to the world of arts, stage and film cannot be dismissed. No stranger to receiving accolades after accolades in the course of her career, Kheng Hua was nevertheless overjoyed at the recognition her latest gong has bestowed upon her. “I am so thankful for being chosen the winner in the Arts and Media category for the Great Women Of Our Time awards by The Singapore Women’s Weekly,” said the actress. “We are all winners, every day we do what we love and do the best we can. I will always do my part for the arts in Singapore no matter where I am in the world.” That world has opened up by leaps and bounds for the mother-of-one since starring in 2018’s breakout hit, Crazy Rich Asians. She is signed by no less than four talent agencies including the Los Angelesbased GVA Talent Agency and Singaporebased Fly Entertainment. “Unfortunately, I wasn’t around to pick up my award but I’m so grateful for the love shown to me and the prize goodies from Lancome and Pandora too,” says the thespian.

PUBLIC SERVICE & EDUCATION Adeline Thong, 40, co-founder, The Last Resort

Parenting can be incredibly challenging but what if the children weren’t your own, and you had no obligations or responsibilities towards them? This was the position Adeline Thong found herself in more than 10 years ago when she first decided to start fostering youths who had nowhere to go. She felt compelled to do so because she wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. “The youths I’ve taken in often wonder whether anyone notices the precarious situations that they find themselves in and whether their cries for help are being heard. And I, along with my husband, want them to know that we do,” says Adeline. “I find great comfort in knowing that because of this award recognition, their precious lives are not unseen and forgotten by society. Thank you for acknowledging the need that every one of us can share our love and care with those in need.”

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january 2020 | 22 | womensweekly.com.sg

TEXT: NATALYA MOLOK / PHOTOS: VEE CHIN & TAN WEI TE / ART DIRECTION: IVY CHOONG & XU MEIYAN /STYLING: AARON KOK / STYLING ASSISTANTS: JULIET SUEN & AN LYN CHEE / HAIR: JASON WONG/SALON NU, GREGO & ASH LOI/SONDER SALON / MAKEUP: KEITH BRYANT LEE, HONGLING LIM, RINA SIM, WEE MING & JYUE HUEY (FOR SHANN SOK) / LOCATION: 89NR, THE WORKING CAPITOL, BOTANICO AT THE GARAGE & THE SUMMERHOUSE

GREAT WOMEN OF OUR TIME

SUBSIDIARY AWARDS PANDORA SPIRITED WOMAN AWARD Dr Claudine Pang, 38, medical director, Asia Retina Eye Surgery Centre

LANCÔME VISIONARY AWARD

“Surprised is the first word that comes to mind,” says Dr Claudine Pang when asked how she feels about nabbing a win at the Great Women Of Our Time 2019 Awards Presentation and Cocktail Night. “But I’m happy and grateful to be part of this amazing group of women. I see this award as a form of affirmation for the hard work I’ve put in so far and it will spur me on more to find ways to do more for the eye health sector in Singapore.” The good doctor, who developed Singapore’s first, and currently, only eye care mobile app, aims to ride the wave that her win provides. She hopes it will help her to bring subsidised medical care to underprivileged communities who lack basic eye health knowledge.

Janine Teo, 37, founder & CEO, Solve Education! Globally, there are 263 million children who do not attend school, according to a 2016 Unesco study. Janine believes this number should be as close to zero as possible and that all children should have the right to an education, regardless of who they are, where they live or how much money their families have. “I’m particularly passionate about leveraging technology to solve social problems because we need to be able to equip the youth with skills to change their economic situation,” explains the nonprofit founder. Janine also believes there’s still a long way to go. “As long as there’s a child out of school, my mission will be about closing the global education gap.”

MOST INSPIRING WOMAN AWARD Karen Chan, 45, executive director, Asian Film Archive The Most Inspiring Woman award is voted on by The Weekly’s readers and they saw something special in Karen Chan who has been in the driver’s seat at the Asian Film Archive for the past 14 years. While movies may document Singapore’s history, it is due to the tireless work of those like Karen who keep this slice of our heritage alive for modern audiences to appreciate. “Old films weren’t built to last, unfortunately, and it is my job to restore them, digitise them and promote them for posterity, as well as for education and enjoyment,” explains Karen. “I’m thankful for any opportunity for exposure for the Asian Film Archive, and this award has given me just that.”

january 2020 | 23 | womensweekly.com.sg

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GREAT WOMEN OF OUR TIME

Oh, What A Night!

2019

The Great Women Of Our Time 2019 Awards Presentation and Cocktail Night brought together people from all walks of life, from scientists to creatives, to celebrate the achievements of some of the most inspiring women of our generation BY NATALYA MOLOK From left: Elizabeth Tan, Lim Hui Nan, Gillian Tee, Janine Teo, Pamela Ting, Karen Chan, Cherin Tan, Vivien Leong, Dr Claudine Pang, Nurshahidah Roslie, Dr Andie Ang, Adeline Thong, Val Yap, Shann Sok and Cheryl Tan.

Founder and doll director at bycaxs, Cassandra Tan (right) in a stunning lace pantsuit with her boyfriend, Russell Ong.

From top left: Lancome showcased their award-winning Genifique skincare line; Great Women Of Our Time 2019 Sports, Health & Wellness nominee Cheryl Tan with Tania Wu; Maddy Barber, Yvonne Bock and Carolyn Kan get lippy with Lancomeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lip glosses; guests got their lip glosses name-engraved on the night.

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From left: CEO of SPH Magazines, Maureen Wee; CEO of Halo Health Asia & Chair of World Food Future, Trina Liang; Singapore’s representative to the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children, Laura Hwang; SPH Magazines’ group editorin-chief Caroline Ngui; Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs & Ministry of National Development, Sun Xueling; and Deputy CEO of SPH, Anthony Tan. Below: Skin Inc’s global brand manager, Lanyifan Wang (left), and founder Sabrina Tan, grab a quick selfie at the Roving Ring Light photobooth provided by Writing Of Light.

f Pandora had a special claw machine brought in that made for some Instagrammable shots on the night. Participants had lots of fun trying to fish out the beautiful charms encased within.

rom illuminating speeches to the addition of new members to the sisterhood, the Great Women Of Our Time 2019 awards was a night to remember and would not have been possible without the unconditional support of our main presenter, Lancome, and presenter, Pandora. Held on October 24, 2019, The Weekly paid tribute to the best and brightest women in Singapore who inspire not just through their words but also through their actions. This year’s 18 outstanding nominees were a formidable mix of fearless female leaders and game-changing voices. So, it was only right that editor-inchief, Barbara Koh, kicked off the party with a rousing speech that likened them to mythic goddesses. “How apt that the awards are held here in Artemis Grill and Sky Bar.

january 2020 | 25 | womensweekly.com.sg

From left: Media personality, Kelly Latimer; Co-founder of Love, Bonito, Rachel Lim with The Weekly’s Barbara Koh; mixologists at Martell Cognac’s cocktail bar. Below, from left: SocietyA’s founder Pek Lay Peng; Great Women Of Our Time 2019 Finance & Commerce nominee, Shann Sok; managing director of Prominent Land, Joni Lim; and SocietyA’s general manager, Lily Hamid.

GREAT WOMEN OF OUR TIME

From left: Head of marketing for Pandora Jewellery Singapore, Lim Sok Chen; Pandora Spirited Women award winner, Claudine Pang; and The Weekly's editor-in-chief, Barbara Koh.

Radio presenter Maddy Barber (top) of Kiss 92FM was our emcee on a night filled with laughter, and delicious food from the Artemis menu like these cheesy canapes.

Senior director of Yeo-Leong & Peh LLC, Susan Peh, looked ravishing in a white dress.

“For those less familiar with Greek mythology, Artemis was the daughter of Zeus and goddess of the hunt. Her special powers included perfect aim with the bow and arrow, healing disease and control of nature,” Barbara shared. “From Singapore’s first female professional boxer, to a professor and businesswoman who both desire to improve the vision and sight of people in Singapore and the needy thousands of miles away in the Himalayas, and an animal-lover fighting to save monkeys, to a woman who opens her home to take care of troubled youth – these are women hunting down their dreams and goals, who possess the very traits that Artemis was said to have. The only difference is, they don’t belong in mythology; instead, they are here tonight.” As the cocktails flowed, courtesy of our official drinks sponsor Martell Cognac, so did the conversation on

january 2020 | 26 | womensweekly.com.sg

PHOTOS: PHYLLICIA WANG/ANGIE NG/JASPER YU

Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, Sun Xueling.

Top: Guests mingle and network amidst the hubbub of the awards. Below, from left: Founder of Joytingle, Esther Wang; Great Women Of Our Time Finance & Commerce winner, Val Yap; Care Network Lead at Homage, Edwina Ong; Great Women Of Our Time Sports, Health & Wellness winner, Gillian Tee; and founder of The New Savvy, Anna Haotanto.

GREAT WOMEN OF OUR TIME

Great Women Of Our Time 2019 Science & Technology winner, Dr Andie Ang (below). Managing director for market development, SPH Magazines, Geoff Tan, with CEO of Halo Health Asia & Chair of World Food Future, Trina Liang (right).

Founder and CEO of Rentadella, Ming Bridges (right), with her guest, Brie Benfell.

From left: Ryoko Okuda from Prudential; Fannie Lim from Daughters of Tomorrow; Great Women Of Our Time 2017 Finance & Commerce nominee, Karen Tok; and Michelle Lee and Etak Pei Shi Chen from Prudential.

From left: TouchPR’s general manager, Lynette Kan; corporate communications director of L’Oreal Group Singapore, Isabelle Lim; general manager of L’Oreal’s Luxury Division, Michelle Chew; The Weekly‘s beauty editor, Arissa Ha; and TouchPR’s senior account manager, Charlotte Phua.

a night that one guest described as “a unique celebration of female empowerment in its purest form.” Guest-of-honour, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, Sun Xueling, also praised the awards saying she was grateful for the chance to be part of the guest list. “I think the energy level is incredible and I’ve met so many inspiring women here tonight,” she said of the event. “I’m also delighted to hear that this initiative has been ongoing for 14 years, with six categories each year, and three nominees in each category, you honour 18 women every year. To have done so every year, for the past 14 years, just goes to show how many talented women we have in our society.” In all, it was an evening of glamour and gravitas that showcased the power of women and what they can achieve when they come together. The Great Women Of Our Time 2019 Sports, Health and Wellness joint-winner, Gillian Tee, hit the nail on the head when she said, “This is the time for women.” It was a sentiment that echoed as our guests mingled the night away, exchanging ideas and stories that will hopefully ignite positive change for the fairer sex everywhere.

january 2020 | 27 | womensweekly.com.sg

Top: Media personality, Diana Ser, strikes a pose with her son, Jake Lye. Below, from left: SPH Magazines’ Sandra Chua and Chelsea Lam share a moment with Aaron Yang from Pernod Ricard.

From left: Tily Tea co-founders Geraldine Koh, Michelle Koh and Nora Lim share a laugh as they enjoy the fringe activities on the night.

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Beauty Heroes of

2020

From tried-and-true favourites to new must-haves, check out this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beauty MVPs OUR JUDGES:

Barbara Koh Editor-in-Chief

Arissa Ha

Beauty Editor

Larry Yeo

Makeup Artist & Educator

Dollei Seah

Makeup Artist

january 2020 | 29 | womensweekly.com.sg

Cheryl Chio Beauty Influencer

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

SKINCARE SOS

Best Day Moisturiser - Oily Skin Formulated with an all-rounded moisture barrier-strengthening mix of ingredients, the Naturally Serious Skin Warrior Moisturizing Protective Cream, $78 (50 ml), soothe, moisturise, lock in moisture and protect against premature skin ageing.

Hit refresh on your daily regimen with these skincare essentials

Best Night Cream - Oily Skin The Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;kin Oil Control Mattifying Day and Night Cream, $48.50 (50 ml), contains bamboo powder to help control shine so your skin gets clear, matte and refreshed in the morning.

Best Cleanser - Normal Skin Perk up dull complexion with the Mirage Miracle Refining Face Polish, $58.90 (160 ml), which helps to gently polish skin for a dewy, radiant glow.

WSPLURGEX

Best Day Moisturiser - Normal Skin The Chanel Hydra Beauty Camellia Water Cream, $96 (30 ml), has a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly to lock in moisture, leaving your skin smooth and prepped for makeup.

W S AV E X

Best Day Moisturiser - Normal Skin Enriched with natural Japanese ingredients, the Senka Junpaku White Beauty Glow UV Cream, $20 (50 g), is a do-it-all moisturiser that brightens and hydrates while inhibiting pigmentation caused by UV rays.

Best Cleanser - Dry Skin Enriched with botanical extracts originating from Jeju Island, The Pure Lotus Jeju Botanical pH Foam Cleanser, $36 (150 ml), creates a creamy lather that cleanses gently and deeply without drying you out.

Best Night Cream - Normal Skin Wake up to a fresh, well-rested complexion with the Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Dream Face Cream, $89 (50 ml), which comes packed with antioxidants to help detoxify skin while you snooze.

Best Toner - Dry Skin With its unique Cream Blending Technology, the Laneige Cream Skin Refiner, $38 (150 ml), is a dual-function facial toner that also offers the moisturising benefits of a cream.

Best Toner - Normal Skin Infused with a cocktail of nourishing herb extracts, the Whal Myung Skin Elixir, $68 (100 ml), does triple duty by soothing, hydrating and revitalising your skin all at once.

Best Cleanser - Oily Skin The Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash, $42 (150 ml), keeps excess sebum in check without stripping skin of moisture. Bonus: it smells good too!

Best Toner - Oily Skin Not only is it great at regulating sebum production, the Bioderma Sebium Lotion, $33.90 (200 ml), also helps unclog pores and keep blemishes at bay.

Best Moisturiser - Dry Skin The Philosophy Renewed Hope In A Jar Water Cream, $64 (60 ml), keeps your skin moisturised for up to 72 hours. The souffle-like texture also provides a cooling sensation to calm and refresh your skin, too.

Best Night Cream - Dry Skin Containing a powerful blend of highly concentrated ingredients, the Kew Organics Dose of Omega 7 Hydrating Emulsion, $145.60 (200 ml), delivers the ultimate all-day hydration and relief to parched skin.

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BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

Best Cleanser - Mature Skin A delicate concoction of inulin, yoghurt and avocado oil, the Declare Switzerland Probiotic Skin Solution Gentle Cleansing Emulsion, $59 (150 ml), carefully melts away any traces of impurities without disrupting our skin balance.

Best Cleanser - Combination Skin Packed with AHA from natural fruit extracts, the Alche{me} {my} Exfoliating Cleansing Gel, $48 (180 ml), serves as an exfoliating cleanser that gently sweeps away dirt and grime to leave skin smooth and soft.

Best Night Cream - Mature Skin Your skin is in for a treat with the Sulwhasoo Time Treasure Invigorating Cream, $625 (60 ml). This luxurious cream is enhanced with skinfortifying red pine and wild simulated ginseng extracts to help restore your skin to its youthful glory.

Best Day Moisturiser - Mature Skin Made with multipurpose ingredient vitamin C, the Peter Thomas Roth Potent C Bright and Plump Moisturiser, $112 (50 ml), works to reduce signs of ageing by visibly plumping and firming sagging skin.

Best Day Moisturiser - Combination Skin In addition to its hydration properties, the Porcelain Soothe Aloe Recovery Gel, $128 (50 ml), also acts as a restorative treatment for distressed skin – from acne to dark spots and even stretch marks.

Best Toner - Mature Skin Chockfull of skin-rejuvenating goodness, The Skin Firm Youth Therapy Concentrated Essence, $29.90 (120 ml), works to regenerate cells, fill lines and smoothen wrinkles with just a few drops.

TIE Best Cleanser - Sensitive Skin Known for its absorbing powers, the B.glen Clay Wash, $57 (150 g), is a natural clay-based cleanser that draws out excess oil and toxins without being harsh on your skin.

Best Toner - Sensitive Skin Designed for Asian skin that’s prone to sensitivity, the Curel Whitening Lotion II, $32.80 (140 ml), is made with brightening ingredients to brighten dull skin and combat dark spots.

Best Night Cream - Sensitive Skin Filled with a medley of skin-loving ingredients, the Etude House Soon Jung Hydro Barrier Cream, $29 (75 ml), brings new life to stressed skin by shielding it from dryness.

Best Day Moisturiser - Sensitive Skin For those struggling with hypersensitive skin, reach for the Eau Thermale Avene Skin Recovery Cream, $40.70 (50 ml), to help calm irritation while giving your skin a moisture boost.

Best Day Moisturiser - Sensitive Skin A cult-classic, the best-selling Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream, $52 (50 ml), has been reformulated to be twice as moisturising as its predecessor – sealing in round-theclock hydration for up to 24 hours.

Best Night Cream - Combination Skin A hardworking collagen cream, the Refa Glossy Cream, $175 (30 g), uses an innovative extraction technology to achieve firmer, brighter face.

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Best Toner - Combination Skin Suitable for all skin types, the Re:erth Calming Toner, $70 (100 ml), uses Japanese white turmeric extracts to even out skin tone and brighten your complexion.

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

RIGHT ON TARGET

Arm yourself with these serums and under-eye treatments to solve all your skincare woes

W S AV E X

WSPLURGEX Best Serum - Firming A multi-correction serum powered with apple stem cells and triple hyaluronic acid complex, the MDNA Skin The Serum, $240 (30 ml), doesn’t hold back when it comes to firming the skin.

Best Pre-Serum Touted as the holy grail of antiageing serums, the Lancome Advanced Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate Serum, $175 (50 ml), features a supercharged formula of prebiotics and probiotics to speed up skin recovery for a healthier, youngerlooking complexion in seven days.

Best Serum - Acne Control The Derma-Rx Blemish Formula and Comedone Formula, $95/$105 (30 ml each), helps to regulate sebum production, and keep whiteheads and blackheads at bay.

Best Serum - Firming If you’re looking for a multipurpose serum, the Re:erth Multi-Targeted Elixir, $108 (30 ml), helps to improve firmness and refine pores to achieve mochi-like skin.

Best Serum - Anti-pigmentation The Kanebo Illuminating Serum, $190 (30 ml), does more than just brightening – it also helps to reduce the look of dark spots and pigmentation so your skin appears illuminated and ever-so-radiant.

Best Serum - Hydrating Lightweight yet super moisturising, the Decorte Moisture Liposome, $157 (40 ml), incorporates liposome technology to penetrate deep into the skin and imbue it with long-lasting hydration.

Best Under-eye Mask Revive lacklustre peepers with the MTM Skincare CustomBlended Eye Expert Essence Highlight, $348 (30 ml), which is formulated with a variety of custom-blended extracts to address all your under-eye needs.

Best Serum - Line-reducing Say goodbye to fine lines with the Skinceuticals C E Ferulic, $248 (30 ml), which does wonders in banishing wrinkles and plumping up facial contours.

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Best Serum - Resurfacing Give your skin a reboot with the Elizabeth Arden Prevage Progressive Renewal Treatment, $362 (4 x 10 ml), which features an intense resurfacing routine that exfoliates and encourages natural renewal, making your skin smoother and brighter after four weeks of use.

Best Eye Treatment - Anti-ageing The two-in-one Sothys Secrets de Sothys La Cream Eye & Lip Youth Cream, $208 (15 ml), effectively tackles the telltale signs of ageing around the eye and lip areas, thanks to skin-strengthening ingredients like peach leaf gluons and plum oil.

Best Calming Fix for Sensitive Skin For nights when your skin needs a quick fix, turn to the Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Intense Reset Concentrate, $140 (20 ml), for an instant calming relief.

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

Best Eye Treatment - Hydrating You’ll never look back with the Pixi Detoxifeye, $38 (30 pairs). These hydrogel patches are soaked in hyaluronic acid to smooth and depuff eyes, and also provide impressive moisturising benefits.

Best Eye Treatment - Dark Circles Feeling sleep deprived? No one will find out after you apply the Drunk Elephant C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream, $90 (15 ml), which has a brightening blend of vitamins to help alleviate the look of under-eye dark circles.

Best Eye Treatment - Depuffing Brimming with a hefty dose of caffeine, the Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream, $92 (15 ml), swoops in to quickly hydrate, soothe puffy eyes and brighten your eye contours.

Best Face Mask - Line-reducing Soaked with skin-restorative ingredients, the Aeras Repair Rejuvenate Bio Cellulose Mask, $72 (5 pieces), soothes, repairs and brightens while dramatically reducing the look of fine lines.

Best Face Mask - Firming Pamper with the For Beloved One Advanced Anti-Aging Ceramide Squalane Bio-Cellulose Mask, $63 (3 pieces), – a bio-cellulose powerhouse that keeps your skin firm and plump from the inside out.

Best Face Mask - Hydrating Hailing from a local dermatological skincare brand, the IDS Skincare Dermashield Mask, $105 (box of 10), offers protection from blue light while serving up major hydration power.

Best Face Mask - Anti-pigmentation Equipped to replenish skin moisture and elasticity, the Thann Revitalizing Face Mask, $50 (3 pieces), has grapefruit and mulberry root extracts to help fade any visible spots and unwanted pigmentation.

Best Face Mask - Acne Control Formulated with activated charcoal and white china clay, the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask To Clear Pores, $39 (75 ml) clears up your skin in a jiffy – perfect for days when you feel a breakout coming.

Best Face Mask - Resurfacing An invigorating fresh gel mask made up of natural fruit acids, the Juvena Skin Energy Refine & Exfoliate Mask, $105 (50 ml), improves elasticity and evenness of skin tone while leaving it refined.

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Best Facial Sunscreen A staple in Japan, the lavender-tinted Sunplay Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence SPF50+ PA++++, $28 (80 g), comes infused with iridescent pearl powder to brighten skin while shielding it from sun damage.

Best Facial Sunscreen - Sensitive Skin Suitable for even the most sensitive of skin, the Cell Fusion C Cure Sunscreen 100 SPF 50+ PA++++, $44.90 (35 ml x 2), has a cooling formula to soothe and calm redness without causing any discomfort.

Best Sleeping/Overnight Mask Want to fake a well-rested glow? The Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask, $45 (60 ml) strengthens the skin barrier and works its restorative magic while you sleep so you’ll wake up radiant.

Best Face Mask - Clarifying There’s nothing like a mud mask for a good detox! Cue the Antipodes Halo Skin-Brightening Facial Mud Mask, $52.15 (75 g), which harnesses the clarifying properties of volcanic mud to get you glowing stat.

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

Best Facial Sunscreen - Blue Light The Supergoop! 100% Mineral Matte Screen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40, $56 (45 ml), blurs pores and mattifies skin for a flawless finish, while providing broad spectrum protection against blue light.

Best Cleansing Oil Made with 98 per cent of natural ingredients, the Three Cleansing Oil, $68 (185 ml), reaches deep into the pores to lift away every last bit of makeup and sebum without tugging.

Best Anti-Pollution Sunscreen Guard your skin against pollutants with Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++, $56 (30 ml). This non-comedogenic sunscreen wards off environmental aggressors and stays put all day, even in our humid weather.

Best Spray-on Sunscreen There’s no excuse for skipping out on sunscreen when you have the Sunplay Skin Aqua Super Moisture UV Mist SPF 50+ PA++++, $22.90 (150 ml). Incredibly easy to apply, it feels like nothing on your skin. It also sets instantly and doesn’t leave a white cast.

Best Body Sunscreen - Sensitive Skin Perfect for both face and body, the Supergoop! Play 100% Mineral Lotion SPF50, $53 (100 ml), uses a gentle blend of nourishing ingredients to keep skin hydrated and protected against harsh rays.

Best Body Sunscreen The Sunplay Sport UV Lotion SPF 120 PA++++, $17.90 (35 g), boasts a water and sweatresistant formula to keep you protected, and looking fresh throughout the day sans any stickiness.

Best Reusable Makeup Remover Not a fan of disposable wipes? With advanced microtechology, the Glov On-The-Go Makeup Remover, $32, doubles as an onthe-go cleanser and can be reused for up to three months – just add water, rinse and repeat!

Best Makeup Remover When it comes to micellar water, you can’t go wrong with the Bioderma Sensibo H20 Micellar Solution, $28.90 (250 ml). A few swipes with a cotton pad is enough to dissolve makeup and impurities in seconds – no rinsing required.

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Best Makeup Remover Wipes Keep the Senka A.L.L. Clear Sheet, $13.90 (44 sheets), handy at all times – these wipes are gentle yet strong enough to remove the most stubborn of makeup (even waterproof mascara!) without causing skin dryness.

Best Chemical Peels Great for all, even the peel newbies, the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel, $135 (box of 30), is a two-step daily treatment that’s fussfree and safe to use at home. Expect a clear, brightened complexion in no time!

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

WSPLURGEX

W S AV E X

Best Face Oil Containing a powerful blend of natural oils, the L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Youth Oil, $89 (15 ml), delivers essential nutrients to deeply nourish and repair your skin.

Best Face Oil Made with naturallyderived ingredients, the Bybi Bakuchiol Booster, $23 (15 ml), is a small but potent retinol alternative that boosts collagen production without irritating skin.

Best Lash Serum Not only does this lash serum make eyelashes appear longer and thicker, the Revitalash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner, $237 (3.5 ml), also protects lashes from brittleness and breakage with regular use.

Best Facial Mist - Hydrating A perfect pick-meup for your skin, the Huxley Essential Mist; Sense of Balance, $32 (35 ml), creates a protective veil over skin to hold in moisture.

Best Facial Mist - Mattifying Tatcha’s The Satin Skin Mist, $69 (40 ml), is an oil-free mist that leaves a satiny finish without any added shine.

BEAUTY MEETS TECH

Take your beauty routine to the next level with these high-tech solutions

Best Facial Device - Light Therapy Combining the power of NASA-inspired coloured LED chromotherapy and sonic technology, the Skin Inc Optimizer Voyage Tri-Light++ USB, $289, has an abundance of innovative features to tackle multiple skin concerns.

Best Facial Device - Cleansing The Foreo Luna 3 for Normal Skin, $299, is a breakthrough device that uses sonic waves to buff away impurities for a squeaky-clean complexion gently and easily.

Best Facial Device - Firming Releasing up to 10,000 micro vibrations per minute, the Est. lab Optimalift A+ Intelligent Eye Revitaliser Tri-Action Massager, $86, provides a relaxing yet revitalsing massage that promotes blood circulation and stimulates elasticity.

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Best Facial Device - Eye Treatment The future is here with the Skin Inc Optimizer Voyage Tri-Light Glasses For Bright Eyes, $408, a custom treatment that improves suppleness, reduces dark circles and alleviates fatigued eyes – all with one revolutionary device.

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

Best Oral Supplements - Hydration An edible skin moisturiser? Yes, it exists! The Orbis Defencera, $54 (box of 30), offers 24-hour hydration for the entire body with just one sachet of ceramide-infused, yuzu-flavoured powder.

Best Oral Supplements - Brightening Enhanced with the patented Fernblock to increase skin’s resilience against sunburns, the Heliocare Purewhite Radiance Max 240, $138 (60 capsules), is clinically proven to boost radiance and slow down ageing.

Best Oral Supplements - Firming Get your daily collagen fix with the Fancl Tense Up Collagen Drink, $58 (50 ml x 10 bottles). This beauty supplement is designed to promote your body’s natural production of collagen for firmer, brighter skin.

Best Oral Supplements - Sun Care Oral sunblock is a thing, and at its forefront is the Heliocare Oral, $54 (60 capsules), which works to provide the skin with maximum UV coverage from within.

ALL BASES COVERED

Put your best face forward with our round-up of top makeup picks

Best Makeup Primer - Hydrating No filter is needed with the Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Primer, $48 (32 ml). This lightweight yet moisture-rich primer blends effortlessly into the skin to create a soft, airbrushed effect. Ready for your close-up?

Best Makeup Primer - Mattifying Count on the Sofina Primavista Ange Long Keep Base UV SPF16 PA++, $17 (25 ml), to keep shine at bay, thanks to its long-lasting formula that helps you stay matte and streak-free all day.

Best Foundation - Radiance The Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Foundation SPF 40 PA+++, $92 (30 ml), is infused with a botanical blend of skin-perfecting herbs to deliver a radiant, litfrom-within glow.

Best Foundation - Medium To Full Coverage The Beautyblender Bounce Liquid Whip Long Wear Foundation, $60 (30 ml), can be layered to a velvety-matte finish that wears for up to 24 hours without weighing you down.

Best Makeup Primer - Radiance Blur out imperfections instantly with the M.A.C Lightful C + Coral Grass Tinted Primer SPF 45 PA++++, $71 (30 ml), which glides seamlessly onto skin for a gorgeous toned-up and radiant finish.

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Best Foundation - Sheer/Natural Coverage The Albion Elegance Filmic Skin EX, $90 (30 ml), a featherlight formula that’s buildable and feels barely-there, offers just the right amount of coverage for naturallooking, everyday wear.

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

Best Foundation - Hydrating The name of the Clinique Even Better Refresh Hydrating and Repairing Makeup, $60 (30 ml), says it all. On top of its heavyduty camouflage capabilities, this all-day foundation keeps your skin hydrated so you’ll look and feel refreshed!

Best Foundation - Mattifying You no longer have to worry about touch-ups with the Estee Lauder Double Wear Stayin-Place Makeup, $71 (30 ml), a mattifying foundation that’s comfortable to wear all day without leaving any cakey mess.

Best Foundation - Mineral Made with mineral pigments and skinloving ingredients like macadamia nut oil, the Dr Hauschka Foundation, $73 (30 ml), gives you lightto-medium coverage that’s naturally luminous for all skin types.

Best Blush - Cream The sibling to Nars’ Orgasm cheek powder, the Nars Orgasm Liquid Blush, $52 (15ml), delivers the same oh-so-flattering peachy hue in a fluid formula. A little goes a long way – one pump is all you need!

Best Setting Powder Add the perfect finishing touch with the Cover FX Perfect Setting Powder, $52 (10 g), which helps to instantly set your makeup for a flawless all-day look.

Best CC Cream The all-in-one IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream, $62 (32 ml), colour-corrects, brightens and masks imperfections, while providing amazing coverage.

Best Long-Lasting Foundation We’ve got you covered with the Hera Black Foundation, $75 (30 ml). This 24-hour wear foundation boasts serious staying power, with full coverage, and doesn’t budge no matter what life throws at it.

Best Blush - Powder Featuring 11 richly-pigmented shades ranging from rosy mattes to shimmery corals, the Milani Baked Blush, $17.35 (3.5 g), glides over your skin for the perfect sunbaked flush without looking patchy.

Best Loose Powder In radiant and matte variants, the Shiseido Synchro Skin Invisible Silk Loose Powder, $70 (6 g), has microfine powders to blot away excess shine while adding a dash of highlight for a litfrom-within glow.

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Best Tinted Moisturiser Lightweight and breathable, the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser Natural Skin Perfector, $77 (50 ml), gives you a sheer wash of colour for that coveted no-makeup makeup look with zero fuss.

Best Highlighter Get your strobe on with the Make Up Store Tri Glam, $58 (14 g). This multi-functional palette comes with three colours in matte, satin and shimmer finishes to create the ultimate faux glow.

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

Best Foundation Brush Made with a high density of luxurious fibres, the Shu Uemura Petal 55 Foundation Brush, $80, is designed to ensure precise, streak-free application with every stroke.

Best Face Brush With a design reminiscent of the camellia flower, the Shiseido Hanatsubaki Hake Face Polishing Brush, $63, features four distinct petal sections that contour and buff skin to perfection.

Best Sponge Foundation Applicator Nothing beats the OG of makeup sponges. The Beautyblender Original, $32, remains a cult favourite for many reasons: it blends like a dream, spreads out evenly, absorbs minimal product, and is easy to wash.

Best Concealer - Anti-Acne Waterproof and non-greasy, trust the L’Oreal Infallible Full Wear Concealer, $21.90 (10 ml), to erase dark circles, acne scars and discolouration in one fell swoop. Best Concealer - Dark Spots The Urban Decay Stay Naked Correcting Concealer, $40 (10 ml), is a foolproof cover-up for hyperpigmentation and imperfections. Best part? It feels just like second skin!

Best BB Cushion - Brightening You’re just a puff away from brilliant complexion! The Sulwhasoo Snowise Brightening Cushion, $85 (15 g x 2), is formulated with pearlescent complex to reveal your skin’s natural luminosity.

Best Makeup Brush Cleaner Keep your brushes and sponges clean with the Shu Uemura Sponge Cleaner, $25 (120 ml), which swirls away colour and grease in seconds.

Best Makeup Setting Spray The Make Up For Ever Mist and Fix Setting Spray, $50 (100 ml), locks your makeup into place while keeping moisture at an optimum level so your skin wouldn’t feel dry.

Best BB Cushion - Radiance Implementing the Radiance Reviving Technology into the Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Cushion Foundation, $76 (12 g), this long-lasting formula ensures that makeup stays radiant for hours.

Best Concealer - Under Eye The YSL Beaute Touche Eclat High Cover, $62, is perfected with a secret optical brightening technology to help ease signs of fatigue and make your eyes look instantly awake.

Best BB Cushion - Hydrating If you find your makeup appearing flaky by mid-day, switch over to the Hera UV Mist Cushion Ultra Moisture SPF34/ PA++, $68 (15 g x 2), which is saturated with a deep hydration essence to help you achieve glass-skin goals.

Best BB Cushion - Anti-Ageing One of the most luxurious compacts ever formulated, the Shiseido Future Solution LX Total Radiance Regenerating Cushion, $135 (12 g), keeps your skin refreshed and hydrated from day to night.

january 2020 | 38 | womensweekly.com.sg

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

WSPLURGEX

W S AV E X

Best Eye Shadow Palette Heat things up with the M.A.C Artist Library Palette, $97. It offers bright hues to create the most vivid eye shadow looks.

Best Eye Shadow Palette The Milani Cosmetics Gilded Noir Eyeshadow Palette, $43.40, consists of sultry noir-inspired shades that are guaranteed to dial up the drama.

Best Eye Colour Create endless eye looks with the easy-to-use, highly blendable Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour, $49, a creamy eye shadow stick that’s available in a variety of pigment-rich colours to experiment with.

Best Eyeliner - Pencil The Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Matte Gel Eye Crayon Eyeliner, $38, is a waterproof gel eye crayon that glides on smoothly for an intense colour payoff.

Best Eyeliner - Liquid The Kate Super Sharp Liner EX 2.0, $18.90, is updated with a super-fine brush tip that features dense bristles, making it easier for beginners to draw precise, thin lines.

Best Eyeliner - Gel/Cream Resistant against water, sweat and rubbing, the Giverny Power Proof Slim Liner in #01 Black, $21.90, boasts a highly pigmented formula that lasts up to 24 hours.

Best Mascara Whether you’re sweating it out in the gym or schlepping through a storm, the Urban Decay Perversion Waterproof Mascara, $38, has a clump-free formula that coats each lash and stays on all day without moving an inch.

january 2020 | 39 | womensweekly.com.sg

Best Brow Pencil Super easy to fill, shape and define brows, the Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil, $44, lets you create incredibly realistic hair-like strokes easily.

Best Brow Mascara The Benefit Cosmetics Gimme Brow+ Volumising Eyebrow Gel, $44, contains tiny microfibres to add a dose of volume for fuller-looking arches.

Best Eyelash Curler Made with stainless steel and durable silicone rubber pad, the Manicare Eyelash Curler, $8.90, not only holds up curls well, but also provides cushioning for your lashes so it doesn’t hurt hair strands.

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

LIPS DON’T LIE

From classic bullets to liquid formulas, let your lips do the talking with these fab lippies

Best Long-Wearing Lipstick The Hera Sensual Aqua Lipstick Real Colour Tinted Watery Matte Texture, $43, goes on watery and dries to a matte finish that takes you from a day at work to a night out in town without budging or transferring.

WSPLURGEX

Best Lipstick - Creamy Rich and velvety, the Tom Ford Beauty Lip Color Lipstick, $76, delivers a blast of colour and a lasting satin finish in a wide range of shades.

Best Liquid Lipstick - Creamy Pucker up with the Les Merveilleuses Laduree Liquid Rouge, $36, a glossy liquid rouge that makes your lips appear voluminous and plump in one stroke.

Best Lipstick - Sheer Packaged in an innovative square bullet, the YSL Beaute Rouge Pur Couture The Slim Sheer Matte, $54, has a sheer, buildable texture that’s perfect for the just-blotted lip look.

W S AV E X Best Lipstick - Sheer The L’Oreal Paris Makeup Rouge Signature, $21.90, has a unique oil-in-water formula that offers all-day colour without smudging, flaking or drying out.

Best Liquid Lipstick - Matte Serving up 25 velvety shades and eight hours of comfortable wear, the Giorgio Armani Beauty Lip Maestro, $55, doesn’t disappoint with its superblyhydrating matte formula.

Best Lipstick - Matte Swipe on a sexy matte pout with the Dior Rouge Dior Ultra Care Liquid, $52, which is infused with flower oil for lip care and long wear for up to 12 hours.

Best Lip Tint The Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint, $19.90, comes in an array of sweet tropical shades, but the cherry on top is definitely the lip-smacking fruity scents – which makes it hard to resist picking one up!

Best Lip Balm Worried about chapped lips? The Handmade Heroes Cocoa Friggin’ Fantastic Lip Balm, $6.90, soothes dry patches and cracks for a hydrated, lipstick-ready pout.

january 2020 | 40 | womensweekly.com.sg

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

SMELL DIVINE

These whiff-worthy fragrances hit all the right notes Best Fragrance of the Year - Women Concocted with romance in mind, the Bvlgari Rose Goldea Blossom Delight EDP, $189 (75 ml), is equal parts floral and warmth, thanks to its complementing notes of musk, jasmine and white incense.

Best Tinted Lip Balm Stash the Mentholatum Oil-inColour Lip Balm in Chic Red, $9.90, in your bag for days where you want a subtle hint of colour without compromising on moisturising power.

Best Women’s Scent - Fruity Smell fresh and ooze positivity with the Anna Sui Fantasia Mermaid EDT, $129 (75 ml), which comes with refreshing fruity hints of blood orange and sweet mandarin, and soothing notes of jasmine, honey and vanilla.

Best Lip Treatment The Hourglass Cosmetics No. 28 Lip Treatment Oil, $82, combats dryness with a botanical oil blend, while doubling up as an anti-ageing treatment for the lips. It also comes with a 24-karat gold plated tip that lends a cool sensation on lips.

Best Women’s Scent – Citrus Sweet citrus notes of myrtle, green lilac and warm amber give the Acqua di Parma Mirto Di Panarea EDT, $130 (75 ml), a sensual kick, bringing to mind stunning landscapes of Italy and cool breezes of the Mediterranean.

Best Women’s Scent - Floral The Chanel Gabrielle Twist and Spray EDP, $216 (3 x 20 ml), has a spellbinding mix of fresh floral notes such as jasmine, ylangylang and orange blossom.

january 2020 | 41 | womensweekly.com.sg

Best Fragrance of the Year - Men Designed for those with a penchant for adventure, the Mont Blanc Explorer EDP, $135 (100 ml), has a refined woody aroma peppered with hints of bergamot from Italy, vetiver from Haiti and patchouli from Indonesia.

Best Women’s Scent - Oriental You’re sure to make an instant statement with the Tom Ford F**king Fabulous EDP, $473 (50 ml), which introduces a sizzling blend of clary sage and fresh lavender with an intoxicating oriental twist.

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

FROM HEAD TO TOE

Best Daily Body Wash For Normal Skin The Dr Bronner’s 18-in-1 Pure-Castile Peppermint Liquid Soap, $14.90 (237 ml), is made with organic oils to give you a thorough lather so you’ll step out of the shower feeling tingly clean and smelling minty fresh.

Best Daily Body Wash For Sensitive Skin Rejuvenate your senses with the Olive Oil Skincare Company - Rose Geranium Body Wash, $36 (500 ml), which is blended with rose geranium essential oil to produce a calming, healing effect on the skin.

Best Body Scrub Scrub your way to a smoother visage with the Malin+Goetz Peppermint Scrub, $66 (220 ml), a foaming gel scrub that sloughs away residue while still being gentle on the skin.

Best Hand Cream The Frudia My Orchard Hand Cream Peach, $4.90 (30 g), comes packed with plenty of moisture for your quenched hands and has an alluring peach scent – all in a handy tube.

Best Anti-Cellulite Cream On the hunt for an anti-cellulite fix? Opt for a caffeine cream like the Hysses Ginger Clove Body Contour Cream, $45.90 (100 ml), which helps to moisturise and lift skin while minimising the look of cellulite.

Best Body Moisturiser For Sensitive Skin For dry and atopic-prone skin, the A-Derma Exomega Control Emollient Cream, $49.90 (400 ml), is a fragrance-free emollient that helps to reduce bouts of irritation.

Best Shower Oil The dual-action L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil, $39 (250 ml), turns into a milky lotion as soon as it hits water, gently cleansing the skin while leaving you with a delightful almond scent.

Best Body Moisturiser Containing a decadent blend of rose extracts and replenishing oils, the Chantecaille Rose de Mai Body Oil, $161 (50 ml), works great as a daytime hydrator when you need an extra surge of moisture.

Best Luxurious Body Wash Give yourself an at-home spa experience with the Spa Esprit Plantation Shower Gel Garnet Blend, $37.45 (250 ml), which is made with a bespoke selection of essential oils to revitalise your mind, body and soul.

Best Shower Oil For Sensitive Skin An exclusive formula of vegetal bio-lipids and vitamin PP allows the Bioderma Atoderm Huile de douche, $39.90 (1 L), to impart hydration and comfort without making your skin feel taut after washing.

january 2020 | 42 | womensweekly.com.sg

TEXT: CHEW HUI LING / PHOTOS: 123RF.COM, BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU

Your skin will thank you for these latest crop of body care saviours

CrĂ¨me de la CrĂ¨me

Want healthy, radiant skin in 2020? Make these tried-and-tested award winners your beauty go tos

january 2020 | 43 | womensweekly.com.sg

BEST ORAL SUPPLEMENTS – BRIGHTENING Heliocare Purewhite Radiance Max 240 If you cherish clear, radiant skin, you know using a good sunblock is a must. While most creams only work topically, Heliocare Purewhite Radiance Max 240 works from the inside out to optimise your skin’s health and restore its radiance from within. Containing the extract of polypodium leucotomos (a fern native to the tropical regions of the Americas), the Fernblock® formula is 100 per cent herbal. It protects your skin from premature ageing caused by environmental aggressors. It helps to inhibit hyperpigmentation by repairing DNA damage while stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, for ﬁrmer and plumper skin. Fortiﬁed with Heliocare’s proprietary White Tech Complex, a combination of pomegranate extract, L-Cystine, vitamin B3 and vitamin C, this unique blend of ingredients purportedly blocks tyrosinase – the enzyme that is responsible for melanin production – so that the formation of pigmentation is inhibited. White Tech Complex also helps to increase the amount of antioxidant glutathione in your blood, which directly reduces the production of dark melanin while evening out your skin tone at the same time. Targeting uneven skin tone, dark spots and premature skin ageing, let Heliocare Purewhite Radiance Max 240 transform your glow and restore radiance for more youthful-looking skin. At $138 (60 capsules).

SAVING YOUR SKIN

*Heliocare products are available at hospitals and major pharmacies islandwide, including Guardian, Metro, Robinsons, Unity and Watsons. Heliocare Oral Ultra is exclusively available at selected aesthetic and dermatologist clinics. www.heliocare.com.sg

With Heliocare 360° Water Gel SPF 50+ as your companion, you can step outdoors with conﬁdence, knowing you’ve got fullspectrum sun protection. Powered by Fernblock® technology, this ultra-light formula absorbs up to 200 per cent more blue light and prevents photoageing while boosting your skin’s immunological defence. At $57 (50 ml).

Step up your skin’s defences from the inside out with Heliocare Ultra Oral, which protects the entire skin’s surface and increases its resistance to sunburn by 300 per cent. Bolstered with lycopene, lutein, and vitamins C and E, this oral supplement will fortify UV protection and is the perfect complement for your sunscreen. At $60 (30 capsules).

BEST FACE MASK – HYDRATING IDS Skincare DermaShield Mask We know that we need to protect the skin from premature skin ageing caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays, but did you know that you also need to shield your skin from blue light? Known as High-Energy Visible (HEV) light, blue light is virtually everywhere. Sunlight is the primary source of blue light – it’s what gives the sky the colour blue. On top of that, blue light is also emitted from fluorescent and LED lighting, as well as from digital screens of television sets, computers, laptops, smartphones and tablets. Constant exposure to blue light not only disrupt natural sleep patterns and cause eye strain (which are bad enough) but also induce photo-ageing – the cause of spider veins, dullness, wrinkles and dark spots. Protect your skin from premature ageing caused by the damaging effects of HEV exposure with the IDS Skincare DermaShield Mask. It’s packed with blue-light-filtering ingredients: Marigold extracts contain anti-inflammatory properties and have lutein to help filter blue light by as much as 90 per cent. Pyrus malus (apple) extracts and edelweiss EP are high in antioxidants and sweep up free radicals readily to help you maintain smooth and supple skin. Also, hyaluronic acid delivers vital moisture while hydrolysed royal jelly protein and arbutin reduce melanin production, leaving your skin looking brighter and fairer. At $105 (a box of 10).

BEAT THE BLUES Stave off the harmful effects of UV rays, infrared rays and blue light with IDS Skincare DermaShield Serum, an invisible “screen protector” which contains buddleja officinalis flower and marigold extracts – a “natural” blue-light filter – as well as vitamins B3 and B6 to safeguard the youthfulness of your complexion. At $99 (30 ml). * IDS Skincare products are available at IDS Clinic and IDS Aesthetics at Novena Specialist Center, #05-09 to 10, and online at jyx.shop. For more information, call 6463 5525. www.jyx.shop

BEST SERUM – FIRMING (SAVE) RE:ERTH Multi-Targeted Elixir As you age, healthy skin functions take a hit, and slow down. When that happens, the skin is less protected against environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays, and it leaves you high and dry with sagging skin, lines, dryness and uneven skin tone. Your complexion looks dull and patchy, and doesn’t feel as ﬁrm anymore. Now, you may not be able to turn back the clock, but you can help to make your complexion look fresher and more youthful looking. You need skincare that can transform your skin and one such product is the RE:ERTH Multi-Targeted Elixir. The secret lies in its star ingredient – the patented Japanese White Turmeric root and leaves extract – which has been proven to inhibit the breakdown of hyaluronic acid within the skin while stimulating cellular activity and boosting collagen production, reducing pore size and making skin soft and supple, like mochi. The lightweight and powerful serum also contains patented Japanese Spring Turmeric leaf extracts to brighten skin, reduce the look of pigmentation and even out your skin tone for improved radiance. At $108 (30 ml).

ALL IS CALM, ALL IS BRIGHT Refresh your skin with the RE:ERTH Calming Toner. This hydrating formula has Japanese White and Spring Turmeric extracts, as well as trisodium ascorbyl 6-palmitate 2-phosphate (APPS) – a highly stabilised form of vitamin C – which instantly calms and brightens your skin. At $70 (100 ml).

* RE:ERTH skincare is available online at www.REERTH.com.

BEST LASH SERUM RevitaLash® Advanced Eyelash Conditioner Your eyes speak volumes at ﬁrst impression, and healthy eyelashes can make a big difference. Stress and ageing may cause your natural lashes to become dry and brittle. To counter this, you can work on strengthening your lashes with an eyelash conditioner like the RevitaLash® Advanced Eyelash Conditioner. Developed by ophthalmologist Dr Michael Brinkenhoff, this breakthrough formula harnesses the power of BioPeptin Complex, a combination of panthenol-rich green tea extract, powerful peptides and antioxidants. It saturates your lashes with vital moisture for improved strength and ﬂexibility while conditioning each strand to prevent frequent breakage. This eyelash conditioner also contains revitalising ginseng and Swertia japonica plant extracts, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamin B. The fatty acids and plant sterols in saw palmetto help to restore shine while the amino acids, peptides and B vitamins in wheat protein fortify and smoothen. All you need is one swipe of formula daily to reap its rewards, and results can be seen in as early as eight weeks. Its hypoallergenic properties also mean you can safely use it with contact lenses or even with eyelash extensions. At $237 (3.5 ml).

STRENGTHEN AND HYDRATE

*RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner is available at dermatologist clinics and medical aesthetics clinics, and sephora.sg. Visit www.revitalash.com.sg for more information.

Between makeup and grooming, brows go through a lot of stress. Strengthen and condition brows with the RevitaBrow® Advanced Eyebrow Conditioner, an awardwinning serum that protects brows against breakage and ageing. At $174 (3 ml).

Hydrating the eye area means the perfect balance of moisture without greasiness. That’s where the AquaBlur Hydrating Eye Gel & Primer comes in. Lightweight and quick absorbing, this primer leaves skin hydrated and fresh. At $115 (15 ml).

BEST SERUM – LINE REDUCING SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum Free radicals are not our friend. No thanks to ultraviolet rays and environmental pollution, free radicals cause oxidative stress to our skin, which leads to accelerated ageing and results in spots, wrinkles, dryness and a lack of firmness. The antidote to countering the effects of free radicals is pure vitamin C, which helps to neutralise the damage with its skin-protecting properties. That is why using a good vitamin C-based skincare product like SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum is essential to stave off fine lines, sagging and skin discolouration. Containing pure vitamin C, alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) and ferulic acid, this formula’s synergistic combination of antioxidants preserves the integrity of your skin’s supportive protein matrix and firms up your facial contours at the same time. Formulated at precise pH and concentration levels to ensure optimal absorption, this powerful serum continues to be effective for up to 72 hours, so you know your skin is getting the advanced protection it needs. With this ultimate skin-saver, you can count on pro-active protection against those harmful free radicals and preserve a firmer and brighter complexion. At $248 (30 ml).

EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU Receive a complimentary H.A. Intensiﬁer (15 ml) when you purchase the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum (30 ml) from The Clifford Aesthetics Clinic. Offer valid until Jan 25, 2020. Other T&Cs apply.

“A good hyaluronic acid product needs to contain the purest form of hyaluronic acid for maximum absorption into the skin. The hyaluronic acid needs to be smooth to touch and yet not too thick that it will cause congestion into the skin.” – Dr Gerard Ee, The Clifford Aesthetics Clinic

*SkinCeuticals products are available at selected clinics, medi-spas, TANGS at Tang Plaza and Lazada Ofﬁcial Store. www.skinceuticals.sg

LAYER ON FOR FIRMER SKIN Plump up your skin and regain a smooth complexion with SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensiﬁer Corrective Lifting Serum. Containing the natural humectant hyaluronic acid, this hydrating formula also has proxylane to stimulate the synthesis of hyaluronic acid while liquorice root and purple rice extracts prevent its breakdown. At $159 (30 ml).

m a 0 1 6 s y a d k e e W

kiss92fm

www.kiss92.sg

BEAUTY AWARDS 2020

WIN! A HAMPER OF

BEAUTY PRODUCTS

We have 5 hampers to give away

01 A’kin Oil Control Mattifying Day & Night Cream

02 b.glen Clay Wash

03 Beautyblender Bounce Liquid Whip Long Wear Foundation

04 Bioderma Atoderm Huile de douche (AntiIrritation Shower Oil)

05 Bioderma Sebium Lotion (Mattifying & Hydrating Toner)

06 Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

07 Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Foundation SPF 40 PA+++

08 Clinique Even Better Refresh™ Hydrating and Repairing Makeup

09 Cover FX Perfect Setting Powder

10 Curél Whitening Moisture Lotion II

11 Declaré Switzerland Probiotic Skin Solution Gentle Cleansing Emulsion

12 DECORTÉ Moisture Liposome Hydration Boosting Serum

13 Dr. Hauschka Foundation (100% Natural & Organic)

14 Dr. Bronner’s 18-in-1 Pure-Castile Peppermint Liquid Soap

15 ETUDE HOUSE Soon Jung Hydro Barrier Cream

16 Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Dream Face Cream

17 Handmade Heroes Cocoa Friggin’ Fantastic Lip Balm

18 Heliocare Oral

19 Heliocare Purewhite Radiance Max 240

20 Huxley Essential Mist; Sense of Balance

january 2020 | 50 | womensweekly.com.sg

21 HYSSES Ginger Clove Body Contour Cream

22 IDS Skincare DermaShield Mask

23 KANEBO Illuminating Serum

24 KATE Super Sharp Liner EX2.0

25 Lancôme Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate Serum

26 LANEIGE Cica Sleeping Mask

27 LANEIGE Cream Skin Refiner

28 Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour

29 Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser Natural Skin Perfector

30 MAKE UP FOR EVER Mist & Fix Setting Spray

31 MAKE UP STORE Tri Glam

32 Manicare Eyelash Curler

33 Mentholatum Oil-in Colour Lip Balm

34 Mirage Miracle Refining Face Polish

35 Olive Oil Skincare Company - Rose Geranium Body Wash

36 ORBIS DEFENCERA

37 philosophy Renewed Hope In A Jar Water Cream

38 Porcelain Soothe Aloe Recovery Gel

39 rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint

40 shu uemura Petal 55 Foundation Brush

42 SOFINA Primavista Ange Long Keep Base UV SPF16 PA++

43 Secrets de Sothys® La Cream Eye & Lip Youth Cream

44 SUNDAY RILEY Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream

45 Sunplay Skin Aqua Super Moisture UV Mist SPF50+ PA++++

48 SUPERGOOP! 100% Mineral Matte Screen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40

49 SUPERGOOP! PLAY 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 50

50 Thann Revitalizing Face Mask

41 shu uemura Sponge Cleaner

46 Sunplay Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++

47 Sunplay Sport UV Lotion SPF120 PA++++

Here’s your chance to win all these fabulous products! HOW TO WIN 1. Visit www.womensweekly.com.sg or scan the QR code. 2. Click on the “Win + Events” tab. 3. Select the contest you wish to take part and fill in the required fields. 4. Fill in the promo code BBB#0120 to increase your chances of winning.

january 2020 | 51 | womensweekly.com.sg

Terms & conditions:

Promotion is valid from December 26, 2019 to January 25, 2020. Winners will be notified via email by end of January 2020. Promotion is open to all residents of Singapore, other than employees and their families of SPH Magazines Pte Ltd and its associated agencies.

B R O U G H T TO YO U BY

Get Hydrated, Healthier Skin This lightweight moisturiser from Kiehl's is a hydration superhero

ave you ever thought about what makes a good moisturiser? The Weekly’s beauty editor Arissa Ha has had the privilege to test many new beauty products, and here’s what she thinks makes Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream a worthy purchase. FIRSTLY, DO YOU EVEN NEED TO USE MOISTURISER IN SINGAPORE? Hydrating serums can help boost moisture levels, but most do not contain fatty acids or oils found in moisturisers. These ingredients retain moisture in the skin and strengthen your moisture barrier for healthy skin functions. The skin barrier keeps moisture in, and germs and pollutants out. It can be weakened by daily aggressors like UV rays, harsh weather and unsuitable skincare. When that happens, the weakened barrier allows all the nasties in, disrupting various skin functions. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream plumps up skin cells on the outermost skin layer, purportedly reducing the amount of space which skin aggressors can enter, strengthening the skin and protecting it from the daily onslaught of environmental pollutants. ULTRA CLEAN As a general rule, fatty acids and oils are good at retaining moisture but not all are non-comedogenic. This means they have a propensity to clog pores. Biocompatible oils such as squalane, found in Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream, is similar in molecular structure to skin’s natural lipids, allowing it to hydrate, strengthen and restore the skin barrier more easily. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream also has glacial glycoproteins derived from a microorganism found off the coast of Antarctica. The ferment extracted from this microorganism has exceptional hydrating properties and helps prevent

ARI

• BEAUTY

“As someone with sensitive skin, certain products may trigger itchiness and redness for my skin. I’m happy to report that Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream has become my go-to moisturiser. I have a patch of eczema-prone skin on my cheek that flares up every now and then, and leaves behind a layer of dry flakes. With the Ultra Facial Cream, I saw improvements in that area in as early as three days. No more dry flakes!”

water loss no matter the climate you’re in, making it suitable for use in Singapore or if you’re travelling to a cold country. ULTRA TESTED There are more and more people reporting that they have sensitive skin, and it has been found that certain ingredients used in skincare are more likely to create sensitivity issues. With that, skincare brands such as Kiehl’s are even more focused on creating effective formulations that are gentle to use. In fact, Kiehl’s prides itself on its dermatologically-tested products and has a panel of five dermatologists who work hand in hand to develop their Dermatologist Solutions line. While Ultra Facial Cream is not part of this line, it has still underwent rigorous testing on 41 subjects with sensitive skin. This was conducted with daily tests over four weeks, to ensure skin compatibility so that it doesn’t trigger skin sensitivity. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is also formulated without parabens, carbamide and triethanolamine (T.E.A), which are ingredients that could potentially trigger allergies. The result of using this skinloving formula? An improvement of 47.9 per cent in strength for the skin barrier! ULTRA HYDRATING With the reformulation of Ultra Facial Cream last year, it now has improved hydration properties. Providing 24-hour hydration, the skin becomes 2.3 times

more hydrated, even on the driest parts. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream also has been clinically proven to give you softer, smoother and visibly healthier looking skin with just seven days of use. You’ll find the texture lightweight and nongreasy, absorbing quickly without leaving skin sticky or greasy. ULTRA LOVED Since its launch in 2006, over 200,000 people have expressed their love for Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream. With an average rating of 4.9/5 from users all over the world and 10 jars sold every minute, Ultra Facial Cream is Kiehl’s undisputed No.1 moisturiser. Among these reviews, users cited excellent texture, hydration and fast absorption. TRY BEFORE YOU BUY While most stores have testers on display, applying skincare on the back of your hands just isn’t the same as applying it on your face. Kiehl’s has amazing sampling generousity and encourages people to bring sachets of their products home to try. It’s also worth noting that the friendly Kiehl’s Customer Representatives value the education of healthy skin for each customer. What’s more, Kiehl’s newest Healthy Skin Assessment tool can help you understand your skin health and find suitable products – which you can then bring home the samples to try before committing to any purchase.

Visit any Kiehl’s stores and get a consultation from Kiehl’s Customer Representatives using the Healthy Skin Assessment Tool. Don’t forget to pick up free samples of the Ultra Facial Cream for healthy and hydrated skin!

L O O K B O O K FASHION

Step into spring where fresh, vibrant floral blooms come to life on pretty dresses to standout suits

january 2020 | 54 | womensweekly.com.sg

IN FULL BLOOM Slip into a luxe satin dress with oversized floral motifs and a pussycat bow to up your chic factor.

Dress, $94.95, from H&M. Bag, $4,400, from Dolce Gabanna. Ring, $1,800, from Hermes. Stackable rings, stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own.

DO THE RUCHE Embrace your curves with a form-fitting ruched floral dress.

Sunnies, $660, from Marni. Scarf (worn as a headscarf), $910; gloves, $890; bracelet, $4,550; and weaved basket, $8,300, all from Hermes. Dress, $3,500, from Dolce Gabbana. Shoes from Manolo Blahnik.

L O O K B O O K FASHION

A PLEATED AFFAIR

Throw on a blazer over a frilly blouse and floral pleated skirt for an classy look. Top, $370, from Sandro. Blazer from Max Mara. Belt, $29.95, from H&M. Jennifer Behr earrings, $460; and Golden Goose skirt, $915, both from On Pedder. Sandals, $1,200, from Bottega Veneta. Bag, $2,410, from Chloe.

january 2020 | 57 | womensweekly.com.sg

L O O K B O O K FASHION

GLAZE AND GRAIN

Mix and match richtextured fabrics such as lace, pleather and wool to take your floral getup a step further. Valentino hat, $1,010, from On Pedder. Top, $790, from Dries Van Noten. Dress, $6,830, from Bottega Veneta. Bangles, $660 each; gloves, $1,250; and bag, $20,500. all from Hermes. Shoes from Tory Burch.

january 2020 | 58 | womensweekly.com.sg

OF FOLIAGE AND FLORA

If you find florals too frou-frou for you, skip the pinks and reds, and opt for other garden hues like this green blouse. Pair with sleek trousers for an outfit thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect for both the workplace and for drinks after. Bangles, $3,450; and earrings, $3,400, both from Hermes. Erdem top, $575, from NetA-Porter. Trousers from Max Mara. Sophia Webster bag, $865, from On Pedder. Shoes from Dolce Gabbana.

VELVET UNDERGROUND

Create a lasting impression with a tailored floral suit in rich velvet. Mismatched earrings, $4,000, Hermes. Paco Rabanne blazer, $1,289; and trousers, $896, from Net-A-Porter. Shoes, $1,350, from Dolce Gabbana.

L O O K B O O K

PHOTOS: VEE CHIN / STYLING: SIFRA VANIA, ASSISTED BY LAURA ANNE, PRICILIA CHAN / HAIR: DEN NG/PREP LUXE, USING Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;OREAL PROFESSIONNEL & GHD, ASSISTED BY KAI WEN / MAKEUP: KEITH BRYANT LEE, USING ARMANI BEAUTY / MODEL: SHION FULLER/MANNEQUIN / LOCATION: THE ATELIER & CO.

FASHION

TAKE A BOW

Dial up the ladylike factor with an oversized bow accessory. Blouse with bow (worn underneath the dress), $69.90, from Zara. Dress, $585, from Pinko. Earrings from Dolce Gabbana. Bag, $3,800, from Roger Vivier.

january 2020 | 61 | womensweekly.com.sg

L O O K B O O K FASHION UPDATE Dress, $59, from Pomelo.

SOAR IN ORANGE

Ooze positivity, joy and warmth with punchy orangey hues.

24K gold plated cuff, $970 (USD 710), from Magda Butrym.

De La Vali top, $512, from Net-A-Porter.

Sunglasses, $350, from Dolce & Gabbana.

Earrings, $369, from Thomas Sabo.

Mary Katrantzou

Watch, $409, from Tory Burch.

Bag, $1,660, from Mulberry. COMPILED BY SIFRA VANIA / RUNWAY PHOTOS: SHOWBIT

Carolina Herrera

Skirt, $220, from Topshop.

Shoes, $139, from Mango.

Colour Me Lucky

Step into the New Year in these brilliant and bold shades Earrings, $340, from Jil Sander.

LEAD IN RED Great for all skin tones, wear this blazing hue that represents vitality, good luck and happiness.

Aje Waves belted blazer, $310, from Club 21.

Pleated skirt, $415, from Sandro.

Necklace, $210, from Bimba Y Lola.

TIP: If the classic red is too intense for you, complement with other jewel tones.

Scarf from Brooks Brothers.

Pants, $300, from Maje.

Leather bag, $3,390, from Givenchy.

Conscious Exclusive top, $109, from H&M.

january 2020 | 62 | womensweekly.com.sg

Magda Butrym sandals, $2,210, from NetA-Porter.

Prabal Gurung Emporio Armani

GOLDEN AGE

Bracelet, $249, from Swarovski.

Embrace yellow gold which exudes an air of glamour and prestige. If that’s too loud for you, try its vibrant cousin, yellow, which is just as huat.

Earrings, $29.90, from Mango.

Watch from DKNY.

Cami NYC top, $290.45 (USD212.64), from Net-APorter.

Skinnydip London phone case, $32.90, from Zalora.

Top, $420, from Diane Von Furstenberg. Bag, $79.90, from Charles & Keith

Roberto Cavalli

Max Mara

TIP: A shirt dress is effortlessly stylish – and the nipped-in waist on this flatters your shape!

Boots, $960, from MSGM

Ilex Dress, $1,050, from Malene Oddershede Bach. Dress, $825, from Kate Spade New York.

Vleeda skirt, $339, from SocietyA. Palmer Harding Rise Shirt, $690, from Club 21.

PINK PANACHE

Pink doesn’t always have to look girlie. Add a splash of pink to any outfit for a touch of carefree cheeriness.

Blazer, $600, from Bimba Y Lola

Earrings, $99, from Pandora.

Sunglasses, $465, from Prada.

Flared cheongsam, $400, from The Missing Piece.

Watch from Michael Kors.

Belt, $450, from MCM.

Shoulder bag, $815, from Tory Burch.

Kenzo

Pants, $490, Maryling.

Carolina Herrera Amie shoes from Yuul Yie.

january 2020 | 63 | womensweekly.com.sg

JENEEN GOH 37, Founder & Digital Strategist, 21 Stories

Finishing Touches 21 Stories’ Jeneen Goh recommends accessories to glam up your outfit quickly. For her, they’re instant sartorial confidence boosters, too!

Get Your Kicks

For Jeneen, part of being confident is knowing you’re comfortable, and what better way to nail that than in comfy kicks. “A good pair of sneakers go with most outfits and I especially like how unexpected sneakers can be for a party!” Earrings, $369, from Thomas Sabo. Dress, $549, from Giambattista Valli x H&M. Sneakers, $415, from Sandro.

L O O K B O O K

Drop Dead Gorgeous

I’d say my style is pretty adventurous. I love mixing unexpected pieces – like wearing sneakers with a dress

Have somewhere to be, but don’t have the right clothes? Jeneen suggests you use earrings as a look-changer. “The right pair of earrings will complete your get-up,” she shares. “A pair of statement drop earrings can instantly give you a dose of confidence without having to change your outfit.” Earrings, $549; and ring, $549, both from Atelier Swarovski. Top, $54.95, from H&M. Disaya skirt, $499, from SocietyA.

As a modern-day boss, Jeneen Goh is always on the move. “I run a digital marketing agency called 21 Stories,” she explains. “We specialise in social media marketing, and help brands build their presence and grow their businesses online. Running the business and managing my team keep me busy every day!” Because she doesn’t have the luxury of spending hours getting dressed, Jeneen relies on a selection of accessories to get her glammed up in seconds. She spills the pearls here. Describe your style. “I’d say that my style is pretty adventurous. I like pieces with bold details, be it interesting sleeves or exaggerated ruffles. I also love mixing unexpected pieces like wearing sneakers with a dress.”

Small Wonders

When it comes to your bag, smaller is better, says Jeneen, especially during the party season. “I think mini bags lend a chic factor to your look. It also forces you to carry less and pack only what you need, which appeals to the practical side of me!” Earrings, $14.95, from H&M. Jacket, $740; and pants, $480, both from Maje. Bodysuit from Eres. Bracelet, $429, from Atelier Swarovski. Bag, $63.90, from Charles & Keith.

What’s an item in your closet you cannot live without? “A good pair of boyfriend jeans. They go with everything!” What’s your best purchase in recent months? “Oh my, I’ve bought so many good purchases recently! If I had to choose one, I’d go with my white Oasis sandals from Hermes. They’re so comfortable and versatile.” What are your must-have pieces in life? “A statement handbag to complete your look, the right pair of shoes to switch up an outfit, and a pair of statement earrings for that instant dose of confidence.”

january 2020 | 65 | womensweekly.com.sg

FASHION STYLING: AARON KOK, ASSISTED BY PRICILIA CHAN / PHOTO: FRENCHESCAR LIM / MAKEUP: RINA SIM, USING SHISEIDO / HAIR: JASON WONG/SALON NU, USING KEVIN MURPHY, ASSISTED BY ALBEE CHAN / LOCATION: HOTEL SOLOHA.

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Domestic Diva Circle

HOROSCOPES YEAR OF THE RAT

The Year Of

THE

RAT

Prep for the ups and downs that lie ahead by discovering whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store for your zodiac sign, including predictions in love, health and weath in the Year of the Metal Rat

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HOROSCOPES YEAR OF THE RAT

RAT

1948 ,

8 1960, 1972, 19

Abundance is simply a matter of perception. It’s time to be more proactive: Put in the effort and you would begin to notice opportunities in every aspect of your life. Some might even say that abundance is your birthright, but you may have been too busy to notice.

Wealth While there’s no denying that your efforts can, and will yield monetary rewards, you’d need to be extra cautious of unwittingly overspending this year. Practise self-restraint, plan your finances well and stick to it to a tee to avoid debt in the year ahead.

Relationships

TIGER

,1 62 9 1 1926, 1938, 1950,

There will be many opportunities to generate wealth through various channels – even beyond your day job. While you may enjoy prosperity this year, it’s important to be mindful about getting enough rest to keep burnout and stress at bay.

Good luck awaits you this year in the form of travel and money-making opportunities. While you should always have an attitude of gratitude when favourable situations come your way, you should also embrace them wholeheartedly as they may not happen twice.

Relationships

Wealth

If you’re single, get ready to mingle as potential partners are definitely within your social circles. Now is not the time to play coy, be earnest and sincere about your feelings – without being overbearing – and your search for love may well come to an end.

If you are willing to travel, wealth prospects are aplenty. However, your finances are not looking good this year. Practise self-restraint and conquer the urge to splurge. Be prudent and keep close tabs on cash outflow to minimise financial loss.

Health

Relationships

In 2020, you would remain healthy and resilient to serious illnesses. A good diet and fitness routine would strengthen your body against common health ailments, too.

Due to a weak Peach Blossom Luck in 2020, you should maintain a positive mind and an upbeat personality to hold out against any side effects of this poor love luck. Nevertheless, potential partners would still be charmed by the energy you bring, so stay cheery and your love life could still be merry.

49, 1961, 197 37, 19 3, 19 , 19 85 5 2 , 19 19 97 ,2

0 09

It looks to be relatively uneventful in the love department. If you’re in a committed relationship, keep the fires of your romance ablaze by whisking your partner off on a relaxing getaway. This will save your relationship from complacency and boredom. If you’re single and looking, widen your social circle to increase your chances of finding the right partner. Also, there’s no need to rush – whirlwind romances aren’t in the cards for you this year, so take things slow.

Wealth

86, 1998, 2010

1 4,

193 6,

2 6, 99

With the rise of three auspicious stars, worry will be succeeded with optimism, and hope will replace fear. Although inauspicious stars look to potentially derail you from your goals, a positive and unwavering mind will help keep you optimistic and focused.

97 4,

08 ,

20 20

Health While you have a bold and adventurous streak, you should find ways to channel that gutsy trait in ways that don’t involve any critical risk to your physical and mental well-being. Stick to an effective health routine to help you stay fit enough to take on the ample opportunities coming your way.

Health Pay extra attention to your physical and emotional well-being. Eat right, sleep well. If you don’t take care of your lifestyle habits, you could have a higher chance of encountering urinary problems. Make sure you go for medical check-ups when necessary.

january 2020 | 68 | womensweekly.com.sg

8, 194 192

0, 1952,

1 96 4, 1

97 6,

, 88 19

Wealth So long as you avoid any high-risk investments, you will be hopping towards abundance throughout the year. Remain diligent and assume an uncompromising work ethic – this will boost your already-positive wealth luck and raise your chances for a well-deserved raise. Real estate investment should also be on your radar this year, though it’s still best to be conservative and select only lowrisk investments.

Relationships Thanks to your positive Peach Blossom luck, singles should be proactive in the game of love instead of waiting for the other party to make the first move. On the other hand, if you’re in a committed relationship, you could consider getting married – thanks to the presence of auspicious stars.

Health

9 19 7, 8 19

011 9, 2

DRAGON

This year shall be a journey like no other. The way you respond to a situation and the meaning you give to every moment greatly matters as these reactions would determine how your year unfolds. There will be challenging times, but no matter how tough any situation gets, you will still have the ability to turn the tides in your favour.

Wealth It would be wise to put your faith in those who are far more accomplished and experienced than you are in terms of financial management. You should be looking at fixed deposit investments as well as saving plans – expert advice will definitely come in handy when you plan your finance strategies.

Relationships Those in complicated relationships will experience a more progressive love life. Wedding bells are in the air if either party is interested to tie the knot. While single people aren’t quite as fortunate in the love department, mustering the courage to convey their affections towards the one they love may lead to surprising, but favourable, outcomes.

SNAKE

This year presents many opportunities for you to find the silver lining in every situation. Although good luck will come to you in the form of support and new relationships, the way you approach every situation will determine its final outcome. Life can be filled with so much drama due to the presence of inauspicious stars, but if you look at life in a more positive manner, you could turn things around.

Wealth Unlike last year, there will be opportunities for you to accumulate wealth, and save and spend money, and better yet, in a more relaxed approach. Nonetheless, toughen up the security around your assets, if possible, to prevent any possible loss in wealth due to theft.

Relationships Give yourself room to breathe and collect your thoughts before you let your emotions escalate an argument. You may get angry more easily this year, but a heart of appreciation will go a long way towards keeping the peace between you and your loved one, or potential partner.

Health Cast away your frivolous attitude towards your health this year. Don’t underestimate minor health issues and always treat them before they worsen. You should also pay more attention to your diet. If you are not mindful enough, you could develop urinary issues or foot-related problems.

Health This year, you will be more prone to physical injuries. So, refrain from any extreme physical activity, and be mindful not to overexert yourself. Regular exercise is still encouraged. Meanwhile, you should pay extra attention to potential health issues related to the waist and stomach area.

january 2020 | 69 | womensweekly.com.sg

92 9, 19 41, 19

1939, 1951, 1927, 196

3, 1

97 5,

A change of lifestyle and daily habits could be essential to bolster your physical and mental well-being. Prevention is better than cure – stick to this motto firmly by committing to a stricter fitness routine in 2020.

For better or worse, your forecast in 2020 is all about relationships. Almost all of the annual stars, both auspicious and inauspicious, look to influence your relationships in some way. Although the current outlook appears to be less optimistic than what happened last year, your actions and decisions will determine the way this year plays out.

201 00, 20

RABBIT

3 01 2 , 1 200 53, 1 965, 1977, 1989,

HOROSCOPES YEAR OF THE RAT

HORSE

1931, 1943, 1955, 1

96 7, 1 97 9, 1

9 91 3, 00 ,2 15 20

Make it your goal to always be patient, kind and appreciative because everything else in your life will fall into place once you get into that mindset. In other words, this attitude would allow you to experience much more comfortable scenarios even when negativity strikes due the presence of inauspicious stars.

MONKEY

Wealth

Health Stress may be a dominant issue for you if you allow work issues to cascade into your personal life. Counter stress with ample rest, proper sleep, and a healthy intake of nutrients through a good diet and essential vitamins. Take a sabbatical every now and then as that can do wonders for your physical and mental well-being.

Wealth Reduce the chances of minor financial planning with careful planning. Aside from this, your wealth prospects look very positive. However, your own negativity may blind you from noticing how fortunate you truly are. Adjust your mindset, be positive and you will be rewarded.

Relationships It’s time for confessions and courtships for the love-struck. Acts of love will make more impact this year, so you should focus on planning romantic gestures for your significant other or love interest.

42 , 19 54, 1 96

Be extra careful of what you put in your mouth, especially if you are past your prime. You might want to consider more home-cooked meals instead of eating out regularly as this would give you better control of nutrient intake and hygiene.

20 1

Health

0 20 0, 9 9 6, 1978, 1

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Relationships It’s crucial to deepen your bond with your partner or potential romantic interest. Your partner should also be your best friend, so make the effort to improve your relationship on that level as opposed to focusing on romantic or sexual gestures.

Health In 2020, you would likely face no major illness or health concerns. However, it is still recommended that you resist and consume less of particularly tasty, yet extremely unhealthy and oily foods. While stress could also be an issue this year, you can easily alleviate this by making exercise and meditation a big part of your lifestyle.

4, 00

16 20

If you’re already in a committed relationship, remember that the trials you two will go through this year only serve to make your romance stronger. Let every argument or setback teach you how to handle your relationship with greater appreciation and maturity. If you’re single, explore new social circles to make up for the lack of compatible suitors in the current ones.

There looks to be a strong connection between you and the infinity symbol. This means that issues tend to subside and truths are revealed, thanks to the ability of the five lucky stars to tune you into this year’s miracles and wonders. The year looks to move smoothly, but if life takes a detour, it would be best to remain positive.

8, 1980, 1 , 196 99 56 2, 9 2 ,1

Relationships

GOAT

Wealth opportunities will come your way if you put in the necessary work and effort. Meticulous planning and a deeper sense of mindfulness will save you from financial heartache. Be careful when signing any contracts or agreements, for instance, to avoid losing money due to carelessness.

Your boost in wealth will rely a lot on the help from others this year. This could come in the form of expert advice on investments or strengthening your financial security. Don’t take their help for granted though – be sure to pay it forward by helping the less fortunate and the universe will repay your kindness.

193 2, 1

Wealth

93 0, 19

2020 is shaping up to be the year that would truly test your resilience in life. This is a great year to learn and grow through the many challenges that may come your way. When faced with obstacles and challenges, don’t just focus on the bad and take your blessings for granted.

94, 2006, 20 , 19 18

Relationships

Wealth

Love is in the air! There’s positive love luck for those who are single this year. Note that Mr or Ms Right won’t turn up by chance so plan away! As long as you are keen on a committed relationship, the chances of your potential bae reciprocating will be astronomic.

A solid financial backup plan will be your line of defence against the likelihood of what-seems-to-be constant monetary loss. Don’t be too quick to invest as a means to counter this lacklustre period. Avoid high-risk investments at all costs and focus simply on saving money.

Health

Relationships

You may be surprised at how much a difference it makes when you maintain a healthy diet. Embrace nature – a little more than usual – to help improve your mental and emotional health, fostering contentment, resilience and self-awareness.

Love-struck and wedded couples may be more likely to fall sick, and it’s a good time for them to show more affection, care and consideration towards one another. You may tend to misunderstand your partner’s words and intentions, so it would be prudent to be more aware of their body language.

Wealth

33 19

4 19

957, 1969, 1981, 199 5, 1 3,

05 ,

17 20

Health If your health deteriorates, you’d be relieved to know that the best medical assistance is at arm’s length. But, don’t let it come to that; take care of your well-being. Minor physical injuries are also more likely to happen this year, so avoid extreme sports and activities – especially if you do not have a safety plan when things go south.

Wealth You will see a positive shift in your wealth luck this year as more doors open for better part-time jobs and alternative sources of side income. While none of these opportunities is particularly spectacular, effort on your part to harness these changes will be enough to afford you a peace of mind.

Relationships Great news for singles: you won’t be alone much longer if you’ve been soulmate-searching. That said, it’s best if you don’t act on impulse. Take your time to get to know your love interest on a deeper level before committing yourself. Time is on your side.

Health Don’t use your busy schedule as an excuse to avoid adding healthy habits to your lifestyle. There are plenty of quick, cost-effective ways to care for your overall health, without compromising on your health goals. Find out what works and stick to it.

47 ,

It’s time to diversify your options when it comes to building wealth. Don’t just stick to what you know. Seek professional help and find out other ways to improve your finances.

Nothing can ever be achieved without some trials and tribulations. Always remain positive no matter the situation you’re in. When you radiate positivity, the quality of your thoughts and feelings improve, and will naturally lean on the plus side. You can’t control what happens to you in life, relationships, money matters or otherwise, so embrace adversity and dig in even further to drive a positive outcome.

It looks to be a great year ahead in terms of your wealth forecast. Learning and knowledge will boost your monetary gain, particularly through information gathered from carefully researched investments. There are many ways of looking at your life this year. It all comes down to your state of mind and the actions you choose to take for every situation.

7 1, 19 , 59 19

1983

, 1995, 200 7, 2 0

5, 19

DOG

PIG

1923, 193

While most are in search of the light that represents solutions, happiness and fulfilments, they often overlook the most important part of all, and that is to become a light for others. You can look forward to a smooth year in 2020 and that would make helping others easier for you, too.

4, 1946, 1958 , 19 193 70

ROOSTER

2 98 ,1

Your Chinese Horoscopes… are brought to you by Joey Yap, the founder of the Mastery Academy of Chinese Metaphysics and chief consultant of the Joey Yap Consulting Group. He is the renowned expert in Chinese Metaphysics, and a prolific author of over 162 books on subjects of Classical Feng Shui, BaZi, I-Ching, Qi Men Dun Jia and face reading. Visit www.joeyyap.com for more.

january 2020 | 71 | womensweekly.com.sg

I N S P I R E FTINESS

10 Fast, Effective Ways To Tone Up Who’s got time to fit a whole workout session into the day? The trick is to aim for bite-sized exercises that’ll get you looking fab in no time

Bite-sized exercises

Angela’s 10 exercises can be done with limited space and next to no equipment. When done together, they will work every muscle in your body and give you the same benefits as a 30-minute gym class.

LEG-LOOSENING LUNGES

These aren’t only great for the glutes and abs, but perfect for honing your balance, too. Remember to keep your upper body straight, with your shoulders back and relaxed, and chin up. Step forward with one leg, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle, then come back up. Swap legs and repeat on the other side.

HEART-PUMPING STAR JUMPS

We all did them back in school, and guess what? They’re great! Star jumps are the perfect exercise to get your heart racing, while also working your calves, glutes, abs and shoulders. Simply jump, with your arms and legs in and out as fast as you can, and try to get as wide as you can, too.

THIGH-FIRMING SQUATS

These work your whole body. They might be painful, but when done in short bursts, they’re more bearable and just as effective. Squat till your bottom is parallel with your knees, then come back up – keep your back straight and try not to arch as you go back down. If you need support, place your hands shoulder-width apart on a work surface.

BACK-STRENGTHENING SUPERMAN

Strengthen your lower back and improve your posture with this superhero-inspired move. Lie on the floor face down with your arms stretched out in front of you on either side of your head. Raise your arms and legs as high as possible so only your stomach remains on the floor, hold for a count of three seconds, lower and repeat.

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TEXT: BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU / PHOTOS: 123RF.COM

wenty to 30 minutes of exercise five times a week – that’s what experts recommend. With busy day-to-day lives, making time to work out can fall by the wayside. You can, however, try “exercise snacking”. “This is about breaking down your exercise into five-minute stints over a day,” says personal trainer Angela Loannou. “The science behind it shows that a few shorter bursts allows you to fit them into your schedule, and can be beneficial in controlling blood sugar levels. It’s also been proven to reduce stress. When you work out for too long your body’s stress hormone, cortisol, begins to rise. This can encourage destruction of muscle tissue rather than growth.”

I N S P I R E FITNESS

SHOULDER-BOOSTING SHOULDER BRIDGE

This will help tighten and strengthen your glutes and lower back, and also stretch the hip flexors and shoulder muscles. Lie on your back, face up with your hands by your side, palms down. With your feet flat on the floor, move your heels as close to your bottom as you can. Next, push your hips up into the air and bridge as high as you can so only your upper back is touching the floor. Use your hands for stability. Then gently lower your hips back down to the floor and repeat.

5-MINUTE HEAD-TO-TOE WORKOUTS

Try these exercises in five different combinations to be done throughout your day. The key is to go from one muscle group to the next to minimise the risk of poor form or injury. Aim for 40 seconds of exercise, then 20 seconds rest before doing the next exercise. Workout 1: Star jumps, mountain climbers, squats, press-ups, lunges. Workout 2: Star jumps, bicycle crunches, kickbacks, press-ups, ski squats. Workout 3: Mountain climbers, superman, squats, shoulder bridge, kickbacks. Workout 4: Shoulder bridge, press-ups, ski squats, star jumps, lunges. Workout 5: Lunges, bicycle crunches, star jumps, squats, kickbacks.

5 7

AB-TONING MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS

These might be tough, but they’re hugely effective. Do them as fast as you can, and they will work wonders for your abs, arms and glutes. Start in a press-up position on the floor with your hands shoulder-width apart and your legs out straight. Bring one knee up through to the space between your elbows and then straighten it out. Then do the same with your other leg. Alternate legs as fast as you can.

THIGH-BOLSTERING SKI SQUATS This is another great move to strengthen those glutes and thighs. With your back against a wall, squat down so your legs are at 90 degrees and hold. To increase the difficulty, move away from the wall slightly and slowly ‘pulse’ up and down as you squat.

GLUTE-ACTIVATING KICKBACKS These target your glutes and legs. Kneeling down on all fours, kick one foot out, up and back behind you, squeezing your bottom as you go. With a slight bend in your leg, reach as high as you can with your foot before bringing it back down and changing legs.

CORE-WORKING BICYCLE CRUNCHES

Strengthen abs and obliques without a bike. Lie on your back, fingers touching your temples or behind your head. Crunch up, bringing your right elbow and left knee to meet, return and repeat with the opposite elbow and knee. Alternate in this way for as many times as you can.

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ARM-STRENGTHENING PRESS-UPS

Less intense than regular pressups, work surface press-ups are ideal for working your triceps, shoulders and chest muscles. Using a surface such as your kitchen worktop, desk or even a wall, stand about a metre away from it, hands a shoulder-width apart, place them on the surface, then bend your elbows and lower your body towards the surface before pushing back up and straightening your arms.

I N S P I R E MEET THE MENTORS

Ready, Set,

Goal!

It's a new year and three women who are experts in living a productive life show you how to achieve success in 2020 Finding the NADIA balance between CHAN, 30, motherhood, a Co-founder, career and a social Maiko life can often be one of the hardest things women face. However, for Nadia Chan, who co-founded Maiko – the Singapore distributor for Australian skincare brand Canvas – it is entirely possible with the help of hard work and perseverance.

INVOLVE THE KIDS If you’re a mum, you know that it can be difficult to balance your time between your children and your career. Nadia suggests involving your children in what you are doing. “I get my son involved with stock-taking, and that way, he gets to practise his numbers,” she says. She also advises women to remain focused on whichever task they are tackling. “My mind is often like a sea of fishes swimming everywhere but I have trained myself to stay focused on a task and complete it well.”

MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF Making time to have some “me time” can often fall right at the bottom of the list for working mums. However, Nadia stresses that it is one of the most important things you can do for yourself, as well as your kids. “Friday evenings are meant for me. I see my friends, go have a massage or get my nails done,” she reveals. “Once a year,

I also make it a point to go on a trip with my best friend to ensure that I have time to rejuvenate my mind. It’s definitely not easy trying to strike a balance but it is not impossible!” Nadia suggests utilising your commute home, too, to listen Spotify, a podcast or even audiobooks.

ENJOY THE RIDE While chasing her goals is important, Nadia also values the journey. In fact, she feels that too often, we get caught up chasing our goals that we forget to sit back once in a while and just enjoy the ride. “Having a priority list and a gratitude journal continues to play a huge role in my progress and success as a female entrepreneur,” says the mum-of-one. Nadia remarks that the most successful people in life had one thing in common: They all appreciated the journey. “I decided to jot down five things I was grateful for every single day – whether it was my family, my career or the business that I have with my sister,” she says. Nadia encourages others to try this tip out when they feel like their efforts are fruitless.

january 2020 | 74 | womensweekly.com.sg

It’s important to set your heart and mind on achieving goals

Spunky, loud and funny at heart, 28, Head chef, chef Sujatha Bee’s Knees & Asokan, or Su, as Botanico at she likes to be The Garage called, is a force to be reckoned with. “You need to have 300 per cent passion, attention and drive to succeed in your business, personal life, or anything you want to achieve success in,” she says. The chef was recently awarded the 2019 World Gourmet Awards’ Welbilt Top Rising Chef of the Year (Female).

Sujatha Asokan

PLAN AND SET GOALS When it comes to achieving goals, it’s important to stay focused and on track. Sujatha’s tip for staying on task comes down to planning. “Plan your time well and know how to prioritise. You can simply take a few minutes to run through all the things that needs

I N S P I R E MEET THE MENTORS

After years 38, gallery director into her of the ADM Gallery career in at the School of the world of Art, Design and Media, Nanyang art, Michelle Technological Ho is still University wondering if quitting her job as a journalist was a good decision. “After all, the art world is a far more niche industry than publishing, and there are more work opportunities for the latter,” she said. But Michelle counts herself incredibly lucky to be able to work in a field which she cares for, enjoys and finds fulfilment in.

Michelle Ho,

KEEP ON KEEPING ON While she admits that she does not have a strategy for success, Michelle’s consistent efforts led to her being given the opportunity to work on the Singapore Pavilion at the Venice Biennale. “What happens when you continue to create authentic

Start the day with tasks you want to avoid first

DON’T BE AFRAID OF DISTRACTIONS

relationships with the people that you work with, is that somehow, new opportunities come by, and then more, and you keep building that up steadily," she explains.

START WITH THE HARDEST TASK When it comes to being productive, Michelle’s advice is to begin with the task you dislike. “Start the day with the tasks that you tend to want

The benefits of a simple to-do list should not be overstated know that you’ll be caught up with work this week and you’ll need to spend more time on it, then adjust your home schedule accordingly and spend more time at home next week.”

FULFILMENT IS NOT IMPOSSIBLE

COMPILED BY: CAMILLIA DASS

your attention for the day and start working on the most important ones first," she advises.

BALANCE IS KEY While achieving goals take work, Sujatha is also an advocate for knowing when to slow down to avoid burnout. She recommends being flexible with your schedule. “If you

to avoid most. It could be mundane administration or accounting or difficult emails to send,” she says. “Once these items are cleared, it is surprising how much more time we have left, and we can enjoy the rest of the day without procrastination, or a sense of dread.”

Of course, slowing down is sometimes hard to do. In fact, it can feel like you are working relentlessly, and not seeing progress or success. For Sujatha, success is all about how you view things. “I think success and fulfilment has a lot to do with your mindset and personal definition of it. Think of who you measure yourself up against and why you do that. You should be the one setting the

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Distraction is probably the one thing we want to avoid when we are trying to be productive but Michelle views distraction as something positive. “Some types of distractions can be productive. I could be in the middle of a major project and I start to plan for future projects, research on it and begin conversations with new artists,” says the long-time curator. She explains that these moments allow her to explore her creative skills better and to return to her main tasks with much more energy.

standards for yourself.” The reasons why Sujatha has managed to be so successful is that she goes into work loving what she does. “I believe in the saying ‘If you do what you love, you’ll never work another day in your life’,” she explains.

KEEP LEARNING Ultimately, one should always remember that success is never achieved alone. Sujatha credits her mentors and colleagues from the industry for all that she knows and how far she has gotten. She says: “When you meet people, be open to learn from them. Learning is an on-going journey, and different perspectives and viewpoints can help you look at things from a point of view other than our own. There’s always something you can learn from somebody out there.”

I N S P I R E MONEY SMART

Get Back On Track It’s the New Year – there’s no better time to take stock and get in control of your financial health

he cost of living has increased through the years, and many are finding it challenging to juggle their dollars and cents. While an annual survey by consulting firm Mercer found that Singapore offers the highest quality of life in Asia, a survey by financial comparison site GoBear revealed that 45 per cent of Singaporeans admitted they did not have enough savings to survive for half a year. Of this, 21 per cent said they “couldn’t live beyond a month” if they lose their job. GoBear has also found that 41 per cent of Singaporeans are not optimistic about their financial future. Behavioural finance and market psychology expert Wong Kon How believes this is influenced by “pressure to keep up appearances” and “becoming accustomed to a certain quality of life”. Last year, a survey by investment management firm BlackRock found that money is the top source of stress for most Singaporeans. And those born between 1981 to 1996 are especially overwhelmed by the idea of savings and retirement – researchers suggest this could be due to concerns like providing for ageing parents and improving their immediate quality of life.

Starting Afresh Any time is a good time to take a closer look at your financial health. Helen Baker, a licensed Australian financial advisor and author of On Your Own Two Feet: Steady Steps to

Women’s Financial Independence, a guide to financially surviving divorce, knows what it’s like to summon up the courage to take a good hard look at your finances, and start again after her four-year marriage abruptly ended. “You can always see an expert to look through your finances, and if they are in good shape, that will give you a peace of mind. If you aren’t in a (positive) financial position, you have the opportunity to make changes and to become financially healthy.”

You’re Married “The benefit of being married is you get economies of scale – you have one house, one bill, and two incomes. This is the time to accelerate your financial position,” Helen says. John Dasson, associate wealth advisory director at Financial Alliance adds, “This economy of scale can help in ramping up a family’s financial position. But there are also costly

january 2020 | 76 | womensweekly.com.sg

pitfalls that should be avoided.” That said, it is crucial to discuss finances in a transparent manner, with both parties involced in financial decisions – even if one is earning more than the other. John recommends that you look into the following factors: z Real Estate. Having a property in joint names can be easier on the wallet as you can use both incomes to qualify for a loan, says John. Also, you can use both spouses’ CPF Ordinary Accounts to pay part of the down payment and monthly repayments. But, if you purchase a subsequent investment property, you will incur the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty fee. Having one property under each spouse can save on that tax, but there are pros and cons, and implications in the event of a separation, he adds. z Do up an Estate Plan. This begins with a will that determines how you want your estate – money, property

I N S P I R E MONEY SMART

Careshield Life cover. It is common for someone to overlook their insurance coverage as they previously had cover from their ex-spouse’s corporate policy,” John explains. z Before You Remarry. Consider putting mechanisms in place before another marriage, such as a living trust where your children are the beneficiaries.

TEXT: BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU / ADDITIONAL REPORTING: CHERRIE LIM & SIMONE WU / PHOTO: 123RF.COM

You’re Single

and various assets – to be distributed. “This is vital especially if you have young children as it can state who you wish to be the guardian of your children in the event both spouses pass away,” says John. Most people don’t plan this, and when something happens to them, their remaining families are left to pick up the pieces. z Monitor your Net Worth. What you have set up before you were married should be updated to help you plan for retirement. z Get Coverage for Death. Make sure liabilities like a house mortgage are covered with life insurance. This is important because if the spouse who earns much more dies, the surviving one may not be able to sustain repayments and meet the financial needs of raising children if any.

You’re Separated or Divorced Helen suggests focusing on these 4 Cs during a separation or divorce.

“You need Clarity over your financial position,” she says. “From there, you get some Control about how assets will be split up and you need Certainty about what will happen next. Then you chip away at things, re-establish your financial position and get Confidence.” z Review your Will. In Singapore, marriage revokes a previously made will, but divorce does not. Also, review any nominations that you have made for insurance policies, says John. z Take Control of your Personal Finances. “It can be very messy at this stage but it is important to stay in control,” adds John. Continue to update your statement of net worth. z Cover All Bases. If there is a lump sum settlement, do not spend it all. Plan for retirement and ensure your bases are covered with regards to insurance. “Disability income insurance is very critical. Ensure that you have sufficient Eldershield or

january 2020 | 77 | womensweekly.com.sg

“Being single, you are in complete control of your finances,” says Helen. This is the best time to get everything set up, says John. Here’s what you could focus on: z Create your Statement of Net Worth. This gives you an overview of your financial situation so you know what you own and owe. It helps you visualise what you have so you can better decide if you need to minimise any unnecessary expenses or loans. z Review Insurance Policies. “Disability income insurance is commonly overlooked,” says John. Make sure that you are well-covered for disabilities and critical illnesses. z Your First Property. “Buy a resale HDB at 35, or perhaps a private property? If you buy a HDB property first, you can hold on to it and buy a private property later, but you would incur the Additional Buyer Stamp Duty, which sits at 12 per cent currently,” John explains. z Take Advantage of Compounding Interest. This makes a sum of money grow at a faster rate than simple interest (read: simple interest is the interest you earn in regular bank accounts). That’s because, in addition to earning returns on the money you had invested, you will also earn returns on those returns at the end of every compounding period.

C E L E B R AT E FESTIVE SWEETS

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C E L E B R AT E FESTIVE SWEETS

FESTIVE BONUS

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with our

16-page

recipe special

BUTTER COOKIES WITH ICING 100 g icing sugar 100 g egg white 500 g butter 500 g sugar 1 kg all-purpose flour

PROSPERITY COOKIES What's the Lunar New Year without festive cookies? Make these scrumptious biscuits for loved ones, or just because. These are easy to make and symbolise good fortune

1 egg 100 ml UHT milk Red food colouring Yellow food colouring

Combine icing sugar and egg white to create royal icing. Mix until creamy.

Divide the icing into two small bowls and tint each with a few drops of food colouring. Mix well to get an even colour.

Mix the remaining ingredients in another bowl and place dough in chiller for 1 hour.

Using a rolling pin, gradually roll the dough to desired thickness.

Using a square cookie cutter, stamp the entire surface of the dough.

Preheat oven to 160 C. Line baking tray with baking sheet.

Place dough cutouts onto baking sheet and bake for 12 mins.

Remove from oven and cool completely.

Add royal icing on each cookie. Pipe an auspicious Chinese character like fu on the frosting. Leave for icing to set overnight.

january 2020 | 79 | womensweekly.com.sg

CRISPY SALTED CARAMEL PEANUT PUFF 100 g sugar 50 ml water (for nutty mixture) 200 g peanuts Sea salt, to taste 100 g sesame seeds 2 eggs 700 g all-purpose flour 100 ml corn oil 300 ml water (for cookie dough)

1. Combine sugar and water in a pan. Set over medium heat. 2. Bring to a boil until syrup starts to brown in spots, swirl the pan occasionally. 3. Add in peanuts, salt and sesame seeds. Remove, blend into a paste, set aside to cool. 4. Combine eggs, all-purpose flour and water, and mix well. Set the dough aside at room temperature for 1 hour. 5. Cut dough and form into balls. 6. Fill dough with the cooked nutty caramel mixture to form the puffs. 7. Heat oil in a wok and fry the puffs over medium-low heat until golden brown. 8. Drain in a metal strainer.

C E L E B R AT E FESTIVE SWEETS

FORTUNE COOKIES 6 eggs, egg white only 250 g sugar 100 g butter, melted 100 ml water

3. Add in all-purpose flour and vanilla extract. Mix well and set aside. 4. Preheat oven to 170 C. Line baking tray with baking sheet. 5. Scoop a small amount of batter

100 g all-purpose flour

onto the baking sheet and spread

Âź tsp vanilla extract

it out thinly into 3-inch circles. 6. Bake for 6 mins, until the edges

MIXED NUTS FLORENTINE COOKIES

Write fortune messages on strips of paper about 4 inches long and Â˝ inch wide.

2. In a large bowl, combine egg white,

brown slightly. 7. Remove from oven and place fortune strip in the middle. 8. Fold cookie in half and place it

45 g butter

sugar, butter and water. Whip until

on the edge of a cup or mug to

100 g sugar

mixture is frothy.

hold its shape. Set aside to cool.

25 g all-purpose flour 50 ml water 50 g white sesame seeds 50 g black sesame seeds 100 g pumpkin seeds 100 g sunflower seeds 100 g almond flakes

1. Combine butter, sugar, all-purpose flour and water. Mix well. 2. Mix all the seeds and almond flakes together. Set aside. 3. Line baking tray with baking sheet. 4. Spread mixture evenly on tray and sprinkle seeds on it. 5. Preheat oven to 180 C. 6. Bake for 10 mins, until golden brown. 7. Remove from oven and set to cool.

january 2020 | 81 | womensweekly.com.sg

MANDARIN ORANGE COOKIES 250 g butter 100 g icing sugar

In a large bowl, combine butter

6. Form remaining dough into Â˝-inch

and icing sugar. Beat the mixture

balls. Place leaves and clove on

until fluffy.

top to make mini oranges.

2. Add in all-purpose flour, potato

7. Arrange the cookie dough 2 inches apart on baking sheet.

210 g all-purpose flour

flour, milk powder, mandarin

250 g potato flour

orange paste and a few drops of

8. Bake for 20 mins till golden brown.

10 g milk powder

orange food colouring. Mix well.

9. Remove from oven, and set aside

10 g mandarin orange paste

3. Place dough in chiller for 30 mins.

Orange food colouring

4. Preheat oven to 150 C. Line baking

Green food colouring Cloves, as garnish

tray with baking sheet. 5. To create leaves, knead a small amount of dough and add a few drops of green food colouring.

january 2020 | 82 | womensweekly.com.sg

to cool.

C E L E B R AT E FESTIVE SWEETS

PISTACHIO COOKIES 830 g butter 100 g sugar 1 egg 1 kg all-purpose flour 400 g pistachio, chopped Salt, to taste

1. Combine butter and sugar. Beat mixture until fluffy. 2. Add in egg, all-purpose flour, pistachio and salt. Mix well and place dough in chiller for 30 mins. 3. Preheat oven to 160 C. Line baking tray with baking sheet. 4. Form dough into balls of preferred size and place on baking sheet. 5. Bake for 12 mins, until golden brown.

These auspicious cookie recipes are from assistant pastry chef Yap Wai Keong, from One World Hotel Petaling Jaya. He hopes they will bring joy and happiness to you and your loved ones.

TEXT: EENA HOUZYAMA / PHOTOS: ROBIN YONG / ART DIRECTION AND STYLING : ERO WEE

6. Remove from oven and set to cool.

Cut out and keep

Comfort Rice Bowls ZUCCHINI, LAMB & MISO RICE BOWL

SPECIAL FRIED RICE

MEXICAN RICE & BEAN TURKEY BAKE

BEEF & CABBAGE RICE BOWL

Special Fried Rice

Prep 15 mins | Cook 15 mins | Serves 4

Zucchini, Lamb & Miso Rice Bowl Prep 10 mins | Cook 10 mins | Serves 4

3 eggs

2 cups brown rice

2 tsp vegetable oil, plus 1 tbsp extra

2 tbsps olive oil

2 garlic cloves, crushed

400 g lamb leg steaks

2 chicken thigh fillets, sliced

4 zucchini, sliced on angle

3 rashers, rindless bacon, chopped

3 green onions, thinly sliced

50 g snow peas, thinly sliced

1 cup coriander, leaves pickled

4 green onions, sliced; plus extra, sliced to serve

1 bunch red radish, thinly sliced

¼ cup sweet chilli sauce, plus extra, to serve

Toasted sesame seeds, to serve

2 tbsps soy sauce, plus extra to serve 1 cup long grain rice, cooked to packet instructions, cooled (see tip)

MARINADE ¼ cup white miso paste

1½ cups frozen pea and corn mix, thawed

2 tbsps olive oil

coriander sprigs, to serve

1 lime, juiced

1. In a jug, whisk eggs. 2. In a wok or large frying pan, heat 2 tsps oil on high, swirling to coat. Add egg, quickly swirl over wok until set. When egg puffs, flip and cook 30 secs. Remove from wok. Roll and slice. 3. In same wok, heat 1 tbsp oil on high. Stir-fry garlic 30 secs. Add chicken and bacon, reduce heat to medium. Stir-fry 3 to 4 mins until browned. Add carrot, snow peas and green onion. Stir-fry 2 mins. 4. Stir in sweet chili sauce and soy, then rice and pea mix, tossing to mix well. Stir-fry 1 min. Serve topped with egg, extra green onion, coriander, and extra sauces.

1 tbsp caster sugar

1. Cook rice following packet instructions. Drain, set aside. 2. Meanwhile, heat oil in frying pan on high. Cook steak 1 to 2 mins on each side or to your liking. Remove, cover with foil. Wipe pan clean. 3. MARINADE: Combine all ingredients together. Stir well. 4. In a bowl, combine zucchini with marinade. In pan, saute zucchini on medium for 3 mins. Add onion and half coriander. Cook 1 to 2 mins. 5. Divide rice, sliced steak, zucchini and radish among bowls. Top with remaining coriander and sesame.

CHEF’S TIP: For best results, cook rice, spread over a tray, cover with plastic wrap and chill overnight. This helps to separate grains.

Beef & Cabbage Rice Bowl Prep 10 mins | Cook 25 mins | Serves 4

JANUARY 2020

Mexican Rice & Bean Turkey Bake Prep 10 mins | Cook 35 mins | Serves 4

2 tbsps vegetable oil

500 g turkey breast steaks, sliced

500 g minced beef

1 tbsp olive oil

3 garlic cloves, crushed

4 green onions, thinly sliced

1 tbsp sesame oil

½ bunch coriander, stalks chopped, leaves reserved

2 cups shredded cabbage

1 long red chilli, seeded, finely chopped

½ cup brown sugar

1 cup long-grain rice

¼ cup soy sauce

400 g can red kidney beans, drained, rinsed

1½ tbsps grated fresh ginger

35 g sachet taco seasoning mix

¼ tsp chilli flakes

2½ cups chicken stock

1 carrot, sliced

50 g corn chips

1 zucchini, sliced

1 avocado, sliced

4 eggs

1 lime, wedges

3 cups microwave brown rice Shredded green onion, toasted sesame seeds, hot chilli sauce, to serve

1. In a large frying pan, heat half oil on high. Cook mince, breaking up lumps, 3 mins until browned. Add garlic and sesame oil. Cook 1 min. 2. Mix in cabbage, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger and chilli flakes. Season. Simmer and stir for 2 to 3 mins until cabbage is just wilted. Stir in carrot and zucchini. Cook 1 min. 3. Meanwhile, in a frying pan, heat remaining oil on high. Fry eggs until cooked to taste. 4. Cook rice following packet instructions. Serve rice topped with mince mixture, fried egg, shredded green onion, sesame seeds and chilli sauce.

JANUARY 2020

1. Preheat oven to 180 C. 2. In a medium bowl, combine turkey, oil, onion, coriander stalks and chilli. Cover and chill. 3. In a large ovenproof frying pan, combine rice, beans and taco seasoning. Pour in stock and bring to the boil on medium. Cover tightly with a lid or foil, and bake 20 mins. 4. Season turkey and arrange on top of rice mixture in pan. Cover, bake 10 to 15 mins until rice is tender and turkey is completely cooked through. 5. Top with tortilla chips, avocado and coriander leaves. Serve with lime wedges.

JANUARY 2020

PHOTOS: ROB SHAW/BAUERSYNDICATION.COM.AU

JANUARY 2020

C E L E B R AT E FESTIVE ENTERTAINING

Feast Of Flavours

Level up your Lunar New Year feast with these impressive recipes filled with wonderful, familiar flavours and “good luck” ingredients

s a child, Pamelia Chia dreaded the Lunar New Year. The author of Wet Market To Table shares, “I used to dislike the Lunar New Year when I was

younger because I considered it an excruciating frenzy of dressing meticulously and socialising with people just for propriety’s sake.”

However, being away in Melbourne, the 28-year-old who now works part-time in Ima Café as she writes her next book, has changed her views. “Having lived overseas for close to two years, I view it from a different lens now. It is such a blessing to have a holiday where the whole family gathers for a meal and catch up with one another! Last year, I celebrated by having a mediocre meal at a Chinese restaurant. While back in Singapore, my family and friends were having amazing celebratory feasts. It made me think about how, in Chinese culture, one communicates love and kinship through food.” Pamelia, who used to helm the curry and charcoal grill sections in the Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, Candlenut, recently launched Wet Market To Table, her “love song to the markets”. She understands that preparing a meal for the whole family can be daunting, and shares a few tips to stay sane: • Don’t veer too far from tradition. “Definitely keep your menu CNY-appropriate. There are some recipes in the book that are particularly festive, such as the Cantonese Roast Duck and Prosperity Claypot.” • Serve dishes you feel confident about. Pamelia shares, “If you can, I would recommend either practicing before the CNY meal or falling back on the recipes in your own repertoire.” • Aim for high impact, low effort. “When preparing a multi-course meal, it is crucial to not be too ambitious with your menu. Keep to a maximum of one labour-intensive dish, and keep the rest easy. One high-impact, low-input dish from the book is the Clams With Laksa Leaves. It is one of the quickest yet most gratifying recipes in the book!”

Wet Market To Table, (published by Epigram), $44.90, is available at leading bookstores and shop.epigrambooks.sg.

C E L E B R AT E FESTIVE ENTERTAINING

PROSPERITY CLAYPOT (PEN CAI) Prep 30 mins | Cook 1 hour | Serves 6

3. Add fatt choy to the chicken stock in the pot. Cook it for 5 mins uncovered over medium-low heat, or until all the liquid has evaporated.

BRAISED FISH MAW & FATT CHOY 30 g fish maw 250 ml homemade chicken stock

Set it aside until ready to assemble. 4. Meanwhile, prepare the moneybags. Pour oil into a wok set

(see larder recipes, page 282 of

to high heat. Slice the tubes of egg

Wet Market to Table)

tofu neatly in half - you will have 6

¼ tsp salt

halves in total. Place a dry wooden

5 g fatt choy or dried sea moss,

chopstick in the oil to test if the oil is

soaked in hot water for 15 mins

hot enough. When it is ready, oil will

to rehydrate

stream from the chopstick. 5. Prepare an ice bath and a kitchen

MONEYBAGS

spider. Carefully lower the egg tofu

2 L oil for deep-frying

halves into the wok and cook over

3 tubes egg tofu

medium heat for about 5 mins until

50 g dried Chinese mushrooms,

they turn a beautiful golden brown.

soaked for 20 mins in hot water

It is crucial to cook the egg tofu

until soft, stalks removed, caps

slowly. If you skimp on the frying

diced finely

duration, the moneybags will break

1 tsp Shaoxing wine

easily when you stuff them. Once

1 tsp light soy sauce

ready, lift the egg tofu, put them

¼ tsp salt

into the ice bath and allow them to

A small bunch of chives

cool until easy to handle. 6. Cut one end of the egg tofu and

TATSOI

carefully remove the soft tofu within

1 large tatsoi, rinsed

with a teaspoon; we will only need

100 ml chicken stock

the brown “skins” for this recipe.

1 tbsp corn starch mixed with 50 ml water 1 tsp of goji berries

7. Pour away the oil from the wok and set the wok on high heat. Add the diced mushrooms, wine, soy sauce and salt, and sauté until fragrant.

NOTES FROM THE AUTHOR: Pen cai (loosely translated to “basin dish”) is a pot filled with delicacies to usher in an auspicious year. The components of this claypot dish are said to bring prosperity and wealth. “Fatt choy” directly translates to “strike it rich”, and tatsoi translates to “prosperity vegetable” in Mandarin. Fish maw, made from bladder that keeps fish afloat in water, is believed to symbolise resilience and tenacity in difficult times, allowing one to soldier on in all areas of life. But the centrepiece of this pot is probably the moneybags which are tedious to make, but are delicious and beautiful enough to make all-year around.

1. Begin by preparing the fish maw.

8. Correct the seasoning with more

Place it in a large colander and

salt if necessary before transferring

pouring hot water over liberally. The

the mushrooms into a small bowl.

fish maw should shrink and soften.

9. Fill a wok half full with water and

Cut it into thin strips and place in

bring it to a boil over high heat.

a small pot, along with the chicken

Blanch the chives for about 10

stock and salt. Set to high heat.

secs or until they appear wilted.

When the stock comes to the boil,

Do not pour away the water in the

turn the heat down to a simmer.

wok. Stuff the tofu “skins” with the

2. Cover the pot and allow the fish

mushroom filling and seal each

maw to braise for half an hour or

moneybag by tying a double knot

until completely tender. Remove the

at the top with the chives.

fish maw from the chicken stock, and set aside.

january 2020 | 85 | womensweekly.com.sg

C E L E B R AT E FESTIVE ENTERTAINING

CANTONESE ROAST DUCK

come to room temperature. Discard

Prep 15 mins + 36 hours brine and

the brine.

chill time | Cook 1 hour | Serves 4–6

4. Bring a wok filled with water to a rolling boil over high heat. Gripping

BRINED DUCK

the duck’s neck firmly in one hand,

2 L water

ladle the boiling water over the

90 g salt

duck, about 2 mins per side. Your

3 tbsps honey

goal is for an even shrinkage of the

3 tsps five spice powder

duck’s skin to be accomplished.

1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns 25 g sand ginger, smashed with the back of a knife 25 g ginger, smashed with the back of a knife 3 spring onions, roots removed, smashed with the back of a knife

5. Pat the scalded duck dry with paper towels. Heat the honey or maltose briefly until runny. With a brush, glaze the duck thoroughly with the honey or maltose, and set the duck on a wire rack. 6. Place the duck and the wire rack

3 tbsps hoisin sauce

on a large oven tray, and allow

1 duck weighing about 2 kg, feet and

the duck to dry uncovered in the

wing tips removed, with the neck

refrigerator for at least 24 hours or

left intact

up to 3 days. 7. Remove the duck from the

GLAZE

refrigerator an hour before cooking,

2 tbsps honey or maltose

and preheat the oven to 175 C. Roast the duck on the wire rack, and

1. Prepare the duck at least 2 nights

oven tray for about 45 mins, or until

before cooking or up to 4 days in

a thermometer registers 55 C when

advance. In a wok or large pot, stir

inserted into the duck’s breast. Start

together all the ingredients for the

checking at the 40-min mark. When

brining, except the duck, over high

the duck is done, allow it to rest for

heat. Remove the brine from the

at least 30 mins.

heat as soon as the salt and honey

8. Fill a wok half-full with oil and heat

dissolve. Allow the brine to cool

until smoking. Gripping onto the

completely.

duck’s neck as before in one hand,

2. Add the duck, breast-side down,

ladle the hot oil onto the duck,

ensuring that it is completely

focusing on areas that are not a

submerged in the brine, weighing

rich golden colour yet. The duck is

it down with a heavy plate if

ready when it boasts an evenly-

necessary. Allow to brine in the

browned skin. Carve and serve while

refrigerator for 12 hours.

the skin is crispy.

3. The next day, retrieve the duck from the refrigerator and allow it to

january 2020 | 86 | womensweekly.com.sg

NOTES FROM THE AUTHOR: “Before being offered a kitchen job, a cook is typically asked to go to the restaurant for a trial. I was lucky enough to trial at one of Melbourne’s best restaurants, Lee Ho Fook. One big takeaway for me was being able to taste their dishes and to question the cooks on how they are prepared. The Lee Ho Fook roast duck looked like a typical Peking duck on the outside, but boasted juicy, pink flesh rather than the usual dull grey at most Chinese restaurants. Armed with tips from a very helpful cook, I set about replicating the duck at home. This recipe is the happy result.”

NOTES FROM THE AUTHOR: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am convinced that lard is magic. It boasts a rich, savoury aroma that makes everything taste better. Though it does take some time to render pork fat at home, it really is worth your effort in this dish. The smoky rendered fat emulsifies into the most delicious sauce when the clams release their briny juices.â&#x20AC;?

january 2020 | 88 | womensweekly.com.sg

C E L E B R AT E FESTIVE ENTERTAINING

FRAGRANT STIR-FRIED CLAMS WITH LAKSA LEAVES

3. Meanwhile, place the pork fat and salt into a large, cold pan set over

Prep 15 mins (+ 30 mins soaking) |

medium-low heat. Stir occasionally,

Cook 15 mins | Serves 4

until the fat renders and only crispy cubes remain. This should take

1 kg clams 1 tbsp plain flour

about 5 to 10 mins. 4. Remove the crispy pork cubes from

150 g pork fat, cut into 1cm cubes

the pan and set aside, leaving the

1/2 tsp salt

rendered fat in the pan. Add the

4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced

garlic, lemongrass and chilli padis

2 lemongrass stalks, white part only,

to the pan and increase the heat to

minced 3 chilli padis, stems removed, minced 3 tbsps fish sauce

medium. Be extra watchful to not let the garlic burn. 5. As soon as the mixture in the pan

1 tbsp caster sugar

smells incredibly fragrant, add the

3 tbsps Shaoxing wine

clams. Quickly add the fish sauce,

A large handful of laksa leaves

sugar, wine and laksa leaves before covering the pan with a lid.

1. Begin by preparing the clams. Rinse

6. Cook for 3 mins, shaking the pan

the clams thoroughly with water

from time to time. Remove the lid.

and scrub the shells, if necessary.

The clams should have opened and

2. Place the flour and clams in a large

their juices should have emulsified

bowl and fill the bowl with enough

with the fat in the pan to form a

water to cover the clams liberally.

luscious sauce. Taste the sauce and

Swirl the clams around the water

correct the seasoning if necessary

until the flour has dispersed. Soak

with extra fish sauce or sugar.

the clams at least 30 mins. Transfer

Remove any clams that remain

the clams into a clean bowl, lifting

closed, scatter over the crispy pork

them from the murky water. Rinse

cubes and serve immediately.

thoroughly once more and set them aside until ready to use.

january 2020 | 89 | womensweekly.com.sg

NOTES FROM THE AUTHOR: The secret ingredient in this soup is dried sole fish bones, also known as ti poh. When deep-fried and infused into broths, the crispy fish bones impart a deep umami flavour that is truly transformative. The fish bones can be found at dried provision stalls in the wet market.

TEOCHEW FISH SOUP WITH DEEP-FRIED TARO Prep 15 mins | Cook 4 hours 15 mins | Serves 6 2 L oil for deep-frying 70 g dried sole fish bones (ti poh) 1 taro, topped and tailed, brown skin removed, cut into bite-size wedges 1 fish head from a large fish such as red grouper or Song fish, chopped into pieces 3 chicken carcasses, chopped into pieces 150 g ginger, sliced 2 cm thick 3 ½ L water 15 Chinese salted plums 60 g Solomon’s seal (yu zhu) ¼ Chinese cabbage, tough base removed and sliced into bite-sized pieces 4 tomatoes, each sliced into 8 wedges, core removed

1. Fill a large stockpot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Meanwhile, pour the oil into a wok and set over high heat. 2. Test the oil’s temperature by dipping a wooden chopstick into the oil. Bubbles should immediately stream

through a colander set in a sink and

By this time, the chicken carcasses

from the chopstick. Add the dried

scrub the pot clean.

and fish head should be tender

6. Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly

to the point of disintegration. It is

for about 1 min until toasted and

to remove all traces of scum and

important to use a fine sieve for this

fragrant. Remove the sole fish from

return them to the pot, along with

to catch all the fine bones from the

the oil and set aside.

the deep-fried sole fish and fish

fish. Press against the solids caught

head. Add the ginger and water,

in the strainer with a ladle to extract

deep-fry for about 3 mins until

and bring the contents of the pot to

all the liquid before discarding.

slightly golden brown. Remove and

a rolling boil over high heat.

3. Add the taro pieces to the oil and

9. To the stock, add the deep-

7. Cover the pot with a lid and lower

fried taro, plums, Solomon’s seal,

4. Finally, add the fish head, removing

the heat to medium; you want the

cabbage and tomatoes. Set the

the pieces when they turn a lovely

stock to be boiling quite vigorously

pot over high heat and bring to a

golden brown.

to encourage the emulsification of

boil. Lower the heat to medium-low

fat and the stock. This will result in a

and allow the stock to simmer for

milky, creamy stock.

another hour on low heat until the

set aside.

5. Once the water in the stockpot comes to a boil, add the chopped chicken carcasses and blanch for 1 min. Pour the contents of the pot

8. Allow the stock to cook for 3 hours before straining it into a clean pot.

january 2020 | 90 | womensweekly.com.sg

taro fully softens. Ladle into bowls and serve with rice vermicelli or rice.

PHOTOS & RECIPES COURTESY OF EPIGRAM BOOKS

sole fish pieces, and deep-fry

C E L E B R AT E FESTIVE ENTERTAINING

ROJAK ICE-CREAM Prep 5 mins (+ chill and freeze time

heat. Stir constantly with a whisk to

12 hours 30 mins with ice-cream

incorporate the peanut butter into

maker) | Makes 1 litre

the mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning of the ice-cream so that

180 g smooth peanut butter 180 g sugar

it is well-balanced. 2. Pass the mixture through a fine

330 ml milk

sieve into a bowl to get rid of the

330 ml whipping cream

tamarind seeds, chilli, and ginger

1/2 tsp salt

flower slices. Cover the bowl

125 g tamarind pulp

with cling wrap and refrigerate

2–3 red chilli padis, stems removed,

overnight, or until the ice-cream

sliced thinly 50 g shrimp paste (hae ko) 2 bulbs ginger flowers, petals sliced thinly Cucumbers, diced into tiny cubes, to serve Peanut sprinkles, to serve

base is thoroughly chilled. 3. Churn according to your ice-cream maker’s instructions. If you do not own an ice-cream machine, simply freeze your thoroughly chilled icecream base, beating it well every 30 mins with a hand-held mixer until it is completely frozen.

1. Combine all the ingredients in a pot, and bring to a boil over high

NOTES FROM THE AUTHOR: “This ice-cream was created based on the key components of rojak sauce. It is rich and luscious with the fragrance of ginger flower, its sweetness tempered by tamarind. I like infusing a couple of chillies into the icecream base for an unsuspecting warmth and spice that sneaks up on you as the icecream melts.”

january 2020 | 91 | womensweekly.com.sg

4. Serve ice-cream with diced cucumbers and peanut sprinkles.

C E L E B R AT E MASTERCLASS

Makes about 40 medium-sized tarts PINEAPPLE JAM

How To Make Pineapple Tarts

2 kg peeled, cored pineapple, cut into chunks 880 g sugar 10 cloves 1½ star anise

We love our pineapple tarts! Now you can make your own with this step-by-step guide – they’ll sure be a hit with your guests

3 cassia sticks PASTRY 420 g fried pastry flour (see Chef’s Tip) 35 g corn starch 20 g icing sugar 5 g fine salt 170 g very cold unsalted butter, cubed 85 g very cold lard, cubed 2 egg yolks 45 g egg white 25 g ice-cold milk or water, plus more if necessary pastry flour and rice flour for shaping

PINEAPPLE JAM Finely mince pineapple in a food processor or by hand. Pour into a muslin-lined sieve (in batches if necessary) and squeeze out as much juice as you can. You should end up with around 850 g pineapple pulp and 1.15 kg juice. Set pulp aside.

2. Pour pineapple juice into a wide non-reactive pan. Simmer over medium heat until reduced to about ¼ its original volume. Add pulp, sugar and all the spices, and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until jam forms a thick, amber-gold, shiny blob. If you have no higher than 112 to 114 C. Scrape jam into a lightly oiled dish. Let

january 2020 | 92 | womensweekly.com.sg

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EPIGRAM BOOKS.

a jam thermometer, it should reach

C E L E B R AT E MASTERCLASS

cool completely, then transfer to a clean-lidded container and chill for at least 24 hours. 3. PASTRY Sift pastry flour, corn starch and icing sugar into a mixing bowl. Add salt, butter and lard. With a cake mixer and paddle beater, mix on low speed until fats disperse and mixture looks like breadcrumbs. Whisk egg yolks, egg white and milk together, then mix in on low speed until dough forms a malleable, homogenous ball, neither sticky nor oily. Add a few more drops of milk if needed to help it bind. Wrap or cover dough tightly and chill for 24 hours. 4. Divide jam into 12 g balls and place on an oiled plate. 5. Preheat oven to 160 C in conventional mode (top and bottom heat). Line a baking sheet with baking paper. 6. Let dough warm up at room temperature for 15 mins. Unwrap and sandwich dough between 2 sheets of baking paper, and roll it

CHEF’S TIPS ● Use just-ripe pineapples with a tangy, sweet-sour flavour. Sweet cultivars meant more for eating raw make cloying, sticky jam. *To dry-fry flour with pandan leaves, add 30 to 35 g pandan leaves (cut into 4-cm lengths) to every 200 g flour. Pour into a wide-based pan, stir slowly over low heat with a heat-proof spatula until the flour becomes less clumpy and noticeably lighter, and the pandan has released its perfume. Stop frying when the leaves turn papery dry, before they start to disintegrate. Sift hot flour through a fine sieve into a large bowl and let it cool completely. Store in airtight container. *If tarts have only come into contact with clean utensils, they can be kept at cool room temperature for at least two weeks, and even longer in the fridge.

● The jam recipe makes enough to fill 3 to 4 batches of pastry. As a half-quantity takes scarcely less effort or time to make, and the jam lasts for months in the fridge, you may as well make a full quantity. ● A day’s rest deepens the pastry’s colour and flavour, making it more intensely buttery and encouraging it to brown beautifully. ● Another popular shape is the rugged cylindrical tart. It is made by pressing out a dough strip, ridged on one side, with a toothed semperit press (E). Jam goes on top of the strip’s smooth side (F). Roll strip around it (G), and trimmed (H).

out to 4 to 5 mm thick. Dust a 5-cm diameter tart cutter with pastry flour, and cut out tart shells; stamp with the outer sleeve, then press

dough to about 2 mm thick, cut

down the inner plunger to indent

it into strips with a plain or fluted

the tart’s central well and push up

knife (D), and decorate tarts with

its rim. Lift up the cutter and gently

a lattice (E), or as you wish (see

peel the shell off the cutter (A).

introduction, opposite page, and

Place on the baking sheet, spacing

photo overleaf).

shells 2 cm apart. 7. Gather and re-roll trimmings to

9. Bake tarts on the lowest oven shelf for 25 to 30 mins, until pastry

cut out more shells. Save about

is light golden. If they still look

40 to 50 g dough for decoration

pale after 22 mins, move tarts to

purposes. Add 1 to 2 tsps cold water

a higher shelf for the last 3 to 8

into the dough, and knead to

mins, but do not over-bake or the

increase its elasticity, so it can form

jam may darken too much.

thin strips without breaking off. 8. With serrated pincers, dipped

10. Place sheet on a cooling rack and let it cool for at least 2 hours.

sporadically in rice flour to prevent

Tarts must be cool to the core

sticking, pinch lines in the tart shell

before being packed in an

rims (B). Smooth a jam portion into

airtight container for storage,

a gently rounded mound in each

as residual warmth or steam

tart’s well (C). Roll out decoration

promotes mould growth.

january 2020 | 93 | womensweekly.com.sg

Time For A ‘Kuehnaissance’ The Way Of Kueh - Savouring & Saving Singapore’s Heritage Desserts (published by Epigram) is written by Christopher Tan, author of the bestselling Nerdbaker. On his latest cookbook, which showcases our favourite Malay, Chinese, Peranakan and Eurasian kuehs, the food writer says, “I dream of a day when homemade kuehs once again take pride of place on our tables, when festivals are heralded once more by flour-dusted hands, small and smooth, large and wrinkled, working together.” The Way of Kueh, at $47.90, is available at www.epigrambooks.sg

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Visit www.womensweekly.com.sg to subscribe now! Terms and conditions applies: Offer valid from December 26, 2019 to January 25, 2020. The Peter Thomas Roth Skincare Hamper is valid for the first 10 subscribers and is on a first-come-first-serve basis. • Only applicable to print version. • SPH Magazines Pte Ltd reserves the right to substitute the free gift for another of the same or greater value. • All subscriptions are non-refundable upon receipt. • Allow at least six to eight weeks for your subscription to begin. • For overseas subscriptions, please contact SPH customer service at 6388 3838 (Mon to Fri, 9 am to 6 pm) or email circs@sph.com.sg for more details.

january 2020 | 94 | womensweekly.com.sg

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worth $410!

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january 2020 | 95 | womensweekly.com.sg

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january 2020 | 96 | womensweekly.com.sg

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BROWSE & BUY SHOPPING MADE EASY

Shop The Best Buys

Check out what’s new in stores this month

GET CARRIED AWAY

NEW BROWN LOCKS

Get a fresh head start in 2020 by rocking tiramisu-brown hair, the hottest fall/winter 2019 hair colour trend, according to Chez Vous hair salon. Just in time for the Lunar New Year, this gorgeous shade is created using a combination of Balayage and other highlighting techniques. This tiramisu-brown hair colour can be customised to suit your complexion, hair texture and length, too. At #05-05 Ngee Ann City Podium. www.chezvoushair.com

Garnering a large following over just four years since its launch, The Sophia Label is a homegrown label that carries affordable handbags for every woman. Its success in minimalistic and functional designs has even led to a collaboration in 2018 for a limited edition series with Sanrio. Pick up their latest Reina and Emilia bags for CNY at NomadX, level 3 Plaza Singapura, or visit www.nomadx.sg

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YOUR TRUSTY HOUSEHOLD AIDE

Dry skin not only loses suppleness and softness, it can also lead to scaly and itchy skin if neglected over time. The Bioderma Atoderm Huile De Douche is an antiirritation shower oil that provides all-day hydration and comfort right from the shower. Intensely nourishing, it has a pH level of 5 to 5.5, and relieves any skin tightness by forming a protective film on the skin’s surface. This is suited for dry, irritated and even eczema-prone skin, and can also be used for kids from 6 months old onwards. At $39.90 (1 L) from Guardian, Lazada, Robinsons, Unity, Watsons, Welcia-BHG. www.bioderma.sg

A good vacuum cleaner should be tough and adaptable. And that’s what the Bosch BCHF2MX16 is all about. With its AllFloor HighPower Brush, the cordless vacuum cleaner can reach into every nook and cranny of your home effortlessly – no matter the type of surface. When you’re done, leave it standing to charge using its Lithium-ion technology which promises a long runtime. Plus, its cyclonic airflow system offers a strong cleaning performance. At $399 at all major electrical and electronic stores.

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Recently awarded the “Best Compact Washing Machine” in The Weeky’s Domestic Diva Awards, Brandt’s Compact Top Load Washing Machine (BT653HQA) is the ultimate washer for everyday life. It is packed full of laundry programmes, and even memorises and updates your washing cycle settings. There’s a function to adjust water and electricity consumption, and each purchase also comes with a complimentary in-home product demonstration. At $1,299 from all Brandt authorised dealers and retailers. www.brandt.com.sg

january 2020 | 97 | womensweekly.com.sg

SHARE A SECRET READER REVEAL ALL

How I save myself from become mad with my OCD husband

t started a few years back. My husband, M, got angry at every little thing that didn’t go his way. Wrath, as never seen before, consumed him. He was once charming like Bruce Banner (the nicer side of the Hulk), wooing me with his dorky ways and intelligence. And then when he turned 45, he became something else. You could say that he turned green, just like the Hulk. Mid-life crisis? Andropause? What? I didn’t know then. I googled “passive-aggressive”, “anger management”, “midlife crisis”, “andropause”, and every logical disorder I could think of. One day, I stumbled upon “anxiety disorder”. My world finally made sense. Suddenly, everything he said and did begin to add up. The pieces started to fit, like a jigsaw puzzle. And then a sense of peace, ironically, came over me – I now know I wasn’t going mad. With this new knowledge, came a deep understanding of M's condition, as well as an improved way of fighting his anxiety every day. (I also dubbed his anxiety the “devil”.) I learned that “anxiety is both genetic and nurtured”. As I reflected on his mother’s obsession with cleanliness and fear of clutter, it became clear to me that she had passed on her legacy of anxiety, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) to him. Also, “phobia” – M had an intense fear of flying, which would explain his meltdown, or what the third world war would look like, every time I plan for family holidays. “Nightmares” – recurring ones about his days serving National Service and work pressures haunted him and prevented him from having a peaceful sleep. Simple things that we take for granted were an anxiety trigger for him. Come to think of it, everything outside the boundary of the routine was an anathema.

For instance, picking up M’s friend on the way to dinner would entail me sending countless WhatsApp messages, at his request to Friend A, telling him we were leaving the house. “We are 10 mins away”, “we are 5 mins away”, etc. When we finally picked up Friend A, he exclaimed, “You have anxiety, or what?” I wondered if his friend knew anything about M’s anxiety. The “devil” was easy to spot when you can see it flaunting its win in your face. But it’s hard to pinpoint when it camouflages itself in other manifestations such as hunger, thirst or impatience. Then, you start wondering deeper and harder if it’s you who’s being irrational, unsympathetic or just plain mad. I would tell myself to keep calm and reflect. Pray. Breathe. Start googling again. And I found more ways to manage his anxiety. Thank you, Google, really. Here's what I've learned: “Reframe his thoughts” – I now consciously highlight the positive events in our daily life, despite his insistence that something negative would happen, and that all is dark and gloom. “Reassure him constantly” – I make a conscious effort to update and reassure him when I’m running late, or if I needed another 5 minutes at the mall. “Anxiety is contagious” – To ensure that I don’t become anxious myself, I rely on my trusty handphone to ping me daily about his trigger points. These reminders help me to steer clear of his anxiety minefield, and keep me grounded. The more awareness I have of his possible ticking-time bombs, the greater I am at being able to avoid a meltdown. But the best part of this discovery is knowing that there are ways to help and manage loved ones with anxiety, and that there is hope.

Got a secret you can’t tell anyone? Share it with us – anonymity guaranteed. The sender of each published story receives $100. Send your letter to SWW/Share A Secret, 1000 Toa Payoh North, News Centre, Level 8, Annexe Block, S318994, or email your story to sww@sph.com.sg. Include your mailing address, email address and telephone numbers so we can contact you about your fee.

january 2020 | 98 | womensweekly.com.sg