L I F E .
E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
October 2017
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AROUND ASIA
AIMING HIGH Illustrious families, creative minds and fashion mavens grace our regional editions this month
SINGAPORE TATLER
REEL LIFE A group cover feature celebrates filmmaker Eric Khoo with actresses Ezann Lee and Michelle Goh, whose careers he launched. Khoo discusses his directorial beginnings and being the only Singaporean invited to join the jury for shorts and student films at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Young trendsetting disrupters Chloe Ng, Nikolai David Kea, Sabrina Ho and Vanessa Ng are also profiled in this issue.
SHANGLIU TATLER
LUXURY ARTISAN
TAIWAN TATLER
HIGH PROFILES Nicky Hilton Rothschild graces the cover. The American fashion designer, socialite and model opens up about her career, motherhood and philanthropic work, and delves into her close friendship with Taiwanese jewellery designer Anna Hu. Elsewhere, the founder of Taiwan’s Cloud Gate Dance Theatre, Lin Hwai-min, takes readers inside the making of Formosa, the troupe’s coming fall show.
THAILAND TATLER
MODERN GENTLEMEN In a men’s fashion special, five gentlemen reveal their hidden creative talents, from flower arranging to leatherwork. Elsewhere, grooming, menswear trends and guy-friendly style tips pepper the pages of this issue in keeping with the theme.
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n the cover is Italian entrepreneur Brunello Cucinelli, creative director and CEO of his eponymous luxury brand. Known as the ‘king of cashmere,’ Cucinelli discusses craftsmanship and the inspiration he draws from the beautiful surroundings of Solomeo, the 14th-century Umbrian village he calls home. Five members of Generation T (pictured) also prominently feature as they embark on a sailing trip sponsored by Italian clothing brand Paul & Shark. They talk about life, motivation and work.
HONG KONG TATLER
FASHION VISIONARY Mainland Chinese internet sensation Nancy Zhang is this month’s cover star. The entrepreneurial 24-year-old, who is the face of online retailer JD.com, discusses business, fashion and why Chinese designers are the next big thing. Men take centre stage in the fashion and beauty pages, while a cluster of Tatler gentlemen reveal their tricks and dispense words of wisdom in a fun, tongue-in-cheek feature titled How To.
PHILIPPINE TATLER
FAMILY STORY This issue celebrates the 65th anniversary of luxury retail icon Rustan’s. To mark the occasion, four generations of Tantocos, the family behind the brand, share the cover. Elsewhere, 50 new style influencers take over the fashion pages of the magazine, while chef and restaurateur Jason Atherton opens up in a candid interview about his career.
malaysia tatler . october 2017
Reine de Naples Collection
W W W. BR E G UE T. C OM
in every woman is a queen
M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
OCTOBER L I F E . E X T R A O R D I N A R Y
FEATURES 166 An Intimate Dialogue Tunku Khadijah Abdul Rahman, Sharifah Menyalara Hussein and Natasha Idris uphold the legacy of Tunku Abdul Rahman and his high-spirited outlook
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178 Staying Abreast of the Situation Breast cancer is a plague that affects one in eight women globally. We get up close and personal with the loved ones of those affected
186 How To Raise a Feminist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is an allin-one woman embodying the voice of modern feminism by simply speaking her mind with profound independence
GOOD READS
Novels emphasising on the power that resonates with women today
178 186 malaysia tatler . october 2017 . vol 295 . no 338
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CONTENTS
CONCIERGE 34 Inbox
ALL ROUNDER
A tribute show for iconic singer Sudirman returns for a limited run; Raja Jesrina raises the stakes
Goals can define a woman, and striving for excellence is what Raja Jesrina stands for
36 Small Talk Get up close with Vicky Lau, 2015’s Best Female Chef
38 The Social Network Get creative with these apps for Insta-perfect photos to jazz up your feed while crafting magical memories
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40 What’s On The exciting events including music, theatre and motor sports, as well as upcoming festivities for the month
42 Feast Tickle your taste buds and get ready for Halloween with a fine selection of pumpkin delicacies
FACES 46 Soiree Exciting celebrations including a landmark birthday bash, a dinner party, and a memorable charity evening with ‘Adele’
68 Close-Up Tan Sri Abdul Rahim shares his life goals and tips for success
70 The Invitation The wedding of Sheikh Imran with Syanas Yasmen, and Chong Kai-Juen with Rachelle Chai
90 Onlooker
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The glitz and glamour from fun-filled events around town
104 It Girl Rebekah Yeoh shows us how having the right bag can add that wow factor to just about any outfit malaysia tatler . october 2017
CONTENTS
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144 SHADES OF BROWN
STYLE 118 Style Profile
Champagne shimmer is just what we need to perfect the Amazonian smokey eye for the holidays
Nikita Dowlani, founder of pattern house OwlByDowlani, talks us through her personal style
119 Sequin Sensation Emporio Armani’s fall/winter collection will immerse you in a world of subtle glamour and shimmery seduction
128 Mindful Maker Pearly Wong’s Sze Women of Hope collection explores fashion for a cause through philanthropic partnerships
130 Artful Alliance Margot Robbie embodies the vision of Richard Mille and expresses her passion for the new collection
144 More Than Skin Deep Shiseido’s authentic concept of living energy and natural beauty merges with state-of-the-art technology to bring you nothing short of the best
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150 A Remedy For Sensitivity Lancôme’s Advanced Génifique Sensitive is the new liquid gold for radiant skin and ageless beauty
152 Of Regeneration and Relaxation Decorté’s newly enhanced AQ range is just what you need to calm your skin and your mind malaysia tatler . october 2017
CONTENTS
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200 LIFE 196 Under One Roof Bryan Loo and Sally Quah enjoy a short staycation with their daughters at Marina Bay Sands
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200 A Conquest of Self Gabrielle Tan-Helfman shares her remarkable journey of reaching the Everest Base Camp
206 Travel Essentials for the Year-End Holidays From packing tips and picking out your travel essentials to top picks for the holiday season
EYE CANDY
Just some of the items you must take with you on your next holiday getaway
214 On the Road With The Outlander The Mitsubishi Outlander is a solid pick for city drives and even out-of-town sojourns
218 Are You in the Pink? Wacoal shares some useful tips on the correct way to wear a bra, and caring for your breasts
222 Strength of a Man The passing of his father had Andrew Kwan focusing on the importance of building a healthy lifestyle
DEPARTMENTS Around Asia 8 MalaysiaTatler.com 18 Editor’s Note 24 Contributors 26 Gen T Spotlight 224
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M A L AYS I A TAT L E R . C O M
HIGHLIGHTS O C T O B E R
O N L I N E
E X C L U S I V E S
ONLINE FEATURES Generation T x EPIC 9ROXQWHHUV EDQGHG WRJHWKHU WR EXLOG D KRPH IRU DQ orang asli IDPLO\ ZKLFK ZDV WKH WK EXLOG E\ (3,& +RPHV DQG WKH ¿ UVW RI WZR E\ Malaysia Tatler DQG *HQHUDWLRQ 7.
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DINING Spice of Life Hindus everywhere will be celebrating the festival of lights this month and here are some excellent dining and drinking options.
VIDEOS Jaeger-LeCoultre Goes Back in Time With Kavita Sidhu and Roberto Guiati 5HYLVLW WKH ROG +ROO\ZRRG FLQHPDWLF EHDXW\ GH¿ QHG E\ (OL]DEHWK 7D\ORU DQG 5LFKDUG %XUWRQ XQGHU WKH ZDWFKIXO H\H RI 5HQGH]YRXV 5HYHUVR DQG 0DVWHU &RQWURO
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OCTOBER OPTIONS The group of Generation T volunteers; an Indian food fare; Henry Golding
malaysia tatler . october 2017
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CFO & COO
Michel Preiswerk
Vice President
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Sebas tien Lamunièr e
malaysia tatler . october 2017
L I F E . E X T R AO R D I NA RY
Managing Editor
Elizabeth Soong
Editorial mytedit@edipressemedia.com
Sub-editor Features Editor Writers Contributors Editorial Assistant Special Consultant Managing Editor–Regional Content Editor-in-Chief–Hong Kong Tatler CEO & Bureau Chief–Indonesia Tatler Editor-in-Chief–Philippine Tatler Editorial Director–Shangliu Tatler Editor-in-Chief–Singapore Tatler Vice Chief Editor–Taiwan Tatler Editor-in-Chief–Thailand Tatler
Aaron Pereira Lily Ong Kathlyn D’Souza , Samantha Lim, R achel Ng Terence Lim, Marianna Cerini, Sharon Lim, Grace Ma, Daween Maan Priyanka R amchandani Tunku Dara Naquiah Emilie Yabut-R azon Jakki Phillips Millie Stephanie Lukito Anton San Diego Paris Kuo Jane Ngiam Tracy Huang Naphalai Areesorn
Art and Photography myart@edipressemedia.com
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Malaysia Tatler is published monthly, 12 times per year by Edipresse Media Malaysia Sdn Bhd. Suite 2A-19-2, Level 19, Block 2A, Plaza Sentral, Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur Tel +603 2780 8833 Fax +603 2780 8822 Email myinfo@edipressemedia.com. Printed by Percetakan Zanders Sdn Bhd (205766A), 16, Jalan BK 1/11, Bandar Kinrara, 47180 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan Tel +603-5623 9393 Fax +603 5623 9200. Colour Separation by MagNaColor K.O.L Sdn Bhd (392047K). Malaysia Tatler is published by Edipresse Media Malaysia Sdn Bhd (230081-U). Malaysia Tatler is a registered trademark of Edipresse Media Asia Limited and is used by Edipresse Media Malaysia Sdn Bhd (230081-U) underlicence from the trademark owner. Copyright 2017 by Edipresse Media Asia Limited. All materials published remain the property of Edipresse Media Malaysia Sdn Bhd (230081-U). Materials submitted for publication are sent at the owner’s own risk and while every care is taken, neither Malaysia Tatler nor its agents accepts any liability for loss or damage. Subscribe Subscribe to Malaysia Tatler for just RM185 (12 issues), US$260 for Asia (12 issues by airmail), US$320 for United Kindom, USA and the rest of the world (12 issues by airmail). Call 603 2780 8833 or subscribe online at www.edipressemedia.com. Remittance to be sent to Edipresse Media Malaysia Sdn Bhd (230081-U) Suite 2A-19-2, Level 19, Block 2A, Plaza Sentral, Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur
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malaysia tatler . october 2017
EDITOR’S NOTE
M MALAYSIA TATLER OCTOBER 2017 HOTOGRAPHY kim mun k STYLIST S andrea kee a AIR & MAKEUP kay tuan and irena adam k JEWELLERY J degem archt collection d OUTFITS: O on sharifah menyalara: o ffendi dress, dior boots. ttunku khadijah: michael kors shirt. natasha: k eemporio armani jacket
GENTLE CREATURES Both Sharifah Menyalara and Natasha share a love for horses, and they bond as mother and daughter while riding together twice a week
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Be Strong, Be Fearless
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his issue promises to be an exciting read as we feature three generations of strong, independent women in our cover story. Descendants from our founding father, Tunku Abdul Rahman, his fighting spirit lives on in Tunku Khadijah, Sharifah Menyalara Hussein and Natasha Idris (see page 166). Recently, Lara together with IDEAS spearheaded an ambitious project, an anthology on Tunku, and invited contributors who are people from all walks of life and varying ages, to give their take on Tunku’s beloved quotes—sharing what it means to them. Looking at the people involved in this project (a labour of love, really) one can see how his words still resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds today. At the Dialog book launch, Tricia Yeoh the COO of IDEAS said that “democracy is messy and challenging. You must be willing to go through the messy period first before things change. Success can only happen if we rely on each
other’s strengths.” Meanwhile, comedian Harith Iskander likens it to working on a garden—cultivating and growing individuals. Indeed, I encourage everyone, if you’re a proud and staunch Malaysian, to pick up this book and let the passionate and patriotic words of our countrymen stir up the fire in your belly, and to fight for a Malaysia that is fair, just, and promotes equality for all. Furthermore, Tunku once said this famous line: “We are all Malaysians which is the bond that unites us.” Don’t you agree? October is also Breast Cancer Awareness month, reminding us to do our yearly mammogram to scan for signs of this dreaded disease. Despite her best efforts to take care of herself by eating wholesome foods and supplements, my mother-in-law succumbed to breast cancer when she was 44. While I cannot begin to understand the depth of her pain and suffering, I saw how it was for my husband, who was still 22 at the time, and had to take lots of unpaid leave in order to care for her. It was a difficult time; not only for the one fighting breast cancer but also for those taking care of them—needing to be strong in the face of adversity. Yet many don’t realise that it takes a toll on caregivers too. This is why we decided to highlight the issue in Staying Abreast of the Situation (page 178). We’d like to thank those who agreed to share their intimate story with us. We reached out to a number of people but most of them turned us down, not wanting to recall the trauma they have undergone. So, thank you, Aliza and Hiba, Redza and Fara as well as Dr Azura for your personal accounts, which I hope will serve to enlighten and encourage others who are fighting the same battle. —Elizabeth Soong Managing Editor malaysia tatler . october 2017
CONTRIBUTORS
KIM MUN This photographer never fails to capture precious moments in crafting a series of memories for the perfect story. See his work on page 166
IRENA ADAM This in-demand makeup artist and owner of Studiobeauty flaunts her creative abilities in our cover story for the month What always makes you laugh? The silly little things my kids do. Which actor would play you in a movie? Drew Barrymore. I think she would be a perfect fit! What’s your biggest weakness? I love to eat, but I’m also too lazy to exercise. Who would you most like to be stuck in a lift with? With the love of my life, my husband.
ANDREA KEE ANDREW KWAN The cofounder of Revelation Republic emphasises the importance of wellness in Expressions What is the one item you can’t live without? A good pair of athletic apparel—functional, stretchy, and fitted with high quality fabric. What is your guilty pleasure? Food. I can have four plates of my favourite nasi lemak, and I love cheesecake. If you were an animal, what would you be? I would be a cheetah. I’ve always been in awe of its speed and elegance!
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The former fashion editor turned fashion stylist dresses up our cover stars in classy and elegant apparel What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve done? Bought tickets to a Bon Iver concert in Singapore, and went on my own! Would still do it solo all over again. Where is your happy space? My cosy room. What would your final meal be? A bowl of boiled ABC soup prepared by my mum.
If you could choose a superpower, what would it be? I would love to be able to time travel, so I can relive the best moments of my life. What’s the worst holiday you’ve ever had? My trip to Pangkor Island, because my car broke down on the way there. Which actor would play you in a movie? No doubt, it will be the good-looking Brad Pitt. What’s your biggest fear? Caterpillars. They totally freak me out.
KAY TUAN This hair stylist from Centro Hair Salon puts his dexterous hands to work for this month’s cover story What’s your biggest fear? I’m really afraid of snakes, I will probably freeze at the sight of one. What’s your happiest memory? Every moment spent with my dearest mum. What was the last lie you told? I am already on the way. But the truth was that I had not even left my home yet. What’s the worst holiday you’ve ever had? When I was faced with a sandstorm during my trip to China with singer Yise Loo.
What’s your happiest memory? A family holiday, when we all had a great time in Japan.
malaysia tatler . october 2017
M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
CONCIERGE This month’s must-do list
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INBOX
SMALL TALK
MOBILE
WHAT’S ON
FEAST
Our pick of the month’s highlights and, of course, more delicious tittle-tattle for you
We speak to 2015’s Best Female Chef in Asia during her recent short trip here
In the age of Instagram, hone your photography and editing skills with these neat apps
Exciting motorsports, classical music and theatre shows are in store for you
Indulge in a fine selection of pumpkin delicacies guaranteed to ‘pump’ you up
BUDDHA BOWL Opt for Goodness Greens’ heart- and belly-warming soup to up the feel-good factor for your day
RUMOUR MILL
CONCIERGE | SMALL TALK
FOOD FOR THOUGHT She’s voted the Best Female Chef in Asia 2015, an advocate for environmentally friendly dining and mother of one. Vicky Lau speaks to Rachel Ng during her visit to Malaysia as guest chef for RHB’s exclusive appreciation dinner, and we find out what inspires the Michelin-starred wonder
How did you get into being a chef? For me the act of creating is important, but we have to create something with meaning to it, not just for the sake of doing it. I was lucky enough to start off at a small boutique style firm focusing on environmental and pro bono accounts—so that was really designing for the betterment of society. After I moved back to Hong Kong, I realised that such companies didn’t exist there, so I freelanced, working random jobs just to pay the bills. Then I wanted to take a break and thought, I’ve always enjoyed cooking and making things with my own hands, so I might as well go to Le Cordon Bleu and learn something. After three months there, I fell in love with it, and told myself I have to finish the entire course. Then I worked at a French restaurant, so I thought I’d combine everything I know about design, food, culture and Hong Kong, thus Tate came to be.
How do you describe your cuisine? I think it’s very me, in the sense that it’s a cultural mix, because I was born in the East but also lived in the West. Plus I’m very curious about different cultures, so I try to incorporate a little bit of my thinking as well as my experience from travelling. It’s also very feminine and focuses on storytelling, which is important as it’s the shortest time to get to know a person. I only get a few hours when my guests sit down and I want them to understand what my thoughts are. Therefore, I hope they get the message through each dish’s expressions. Has your cooking evolved over time? Yes, definitely. In the beginning since I was French trained I cooked more French style food. I would say also more gimmicky food because I wanted to catch the attention of people, but slowly you find the smoke and dry ice are just special effects that are not as important. So
I tried to go back to the roots—everything needs to have a point if it is being served on the dish. We learned that your business is going the more environmentally friendly route, could you tell us more? The more you cook the more you get in touch with the environment and you realise that if you want it to last for the next generation you have to think about the surroundings. So we’ve given up bottled water, and put in a strong filtration system instead. As for tablecloths, I use synthetic leather that just needs a good wipe down so I don’t have to send the cloths to be bleached every day. Other things are sustainable seafood and table flowers. We don’t want to waste flowers unless it’s for special events so we used kitchen scraps and grew some plants like sweet potatoes to use as decor. We also have a bin inside the kitchen to collect food scraps and we try to make something out of it.
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CONCIERGE | MOBILE
PICTURE PERFECT In the age of Instagram (the pressure to perfect), we understand the need to have amazing photos. And don’t worry about not having great photography skills, because as we normally say, there’s an app for that
QWIK
CAMERA360 If ads really strike a nervve then you’d be relieved to o know that this app doesn’t constantly badger you with it. This is a remarkable photo tool with a huge range of functions and great filters, with helpful ‘before and after’ versions of your photos for you to admire your handiwork.
PICLAB HD You know those images you see online (read: Pinterest), a nice background with some deep words of wisdom? You can recreate that with this app. Go crazy with typography, illustrations and ornamentation, plus inspire your followers! Make sure that it is sound advice though…
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Making photos pretty is made ‘qwik’ and easy with this app; using over 600 filters, fonts and frames to help make that happen. Navigation is swift and straightforward, and the best is that Qwik adds new filters and features every week, so you won’t ever get bored.
PIXLR With over two million effects, overlays and combinations at hand, this app is an excellent way to get the creative juices flowing. You can layer images, add text and make collages. Furthermore, the app also comes with an autofix and auto contrast feature. Oh, did we mention that it is also free?
TATLERGRAM | CONCIERGE
1 Absolutely stunning still-life images with handy tips and suggestions
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For fantastic compositions and architectural patterns
3 Landscape images that are near-magical
S L A O G E R U T C I #P ography inspiration
to follow for phot ts un co ac m ra ag st Top In
4 If you’re into bereft, abandoned sites that are surreal yet beautiful
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A lovvable pooch takess centre stage here with beautiful backdrops
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CONCIERGE | WHAT’S ON
oct
Get your fair share of classical music, theatre and motor sports this month of October
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BEYOND DIFFERENCES This is the seventh annual show organised by Tutti Art Club, where works by artist Seeling Tan with a group of students including those who have learning disabilities, will be exhibited. klpac.org
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ART EXPO MALAYSIA PLUS 2017 The Art Expo Malaysia Plus celebrates its 11th edition as the longest running international art fair in SEA. artexpomalaysia.com
THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO This is a comic opera in four acts, so if you’re keen on theatre and comedy, do catch it, for a hilarious day of madness, revenge, conspiracy and deception! klpac.org
GREAT THIRDS Mark Wigglesworth (pic) opens with Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, Beethoven’s grand Third Piano Concerto and Rachmaninoff’s Third Symphony.
FATEFUL FOURTH Tenor Carlos Silva and conductor Joshua dos Santos from Venezuela, present a glittering night of arias made famous by Luciano Pavarotti.
THIBAUDET PLAYS SAINTSAËNS Go on a magical and musical journey with Thibaudet (pic) for Saint-Saëns’ Fifth Piano Concerto.
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MALAYSIA MOTORCYCLE GRAND PRIX 2017 It’s another month for motorsports in Malaysia! And fans will once again be able to cheer on our Malaysian riders.
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2017 TOYOTA CLASSICS Be part of this classical, featuring the UK’s Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. mpo.com.my
DEEPAVALI We here at Malaysia Tatler would like to wish our friends and readers a very blessed Deepavali!
LONDON
PARIS
ALICANTE
ESSAOUIRA
OCTOBER 5–8
OCTOBER 7–8
OCTOBER 11–JUNE 30
OCTOBER 13–15
Frieze London transforms Regent’s Park into an open-air art mecca with more than 160 international contemporary galleries and a sculpture garden. frieze.com/fairs/frieze-london
Light displays, installations and street performances illuminate the French capital during Nuit Blanche, a dusk-till-dawn celebration of arts and culture. quefaire.paris.fr/nuitblanche
The Volvo Ocean Race takes elite sailors across four oceans and 12 host cities—including Hong Kong in early 2018—on a 45,000-nautical-mile adventure. volvooceanrace.com
The Moga electronic music festival returns to the Moroccan set of Game of Thrones for three days of techno music, digital arts, exhibitions and beachside parties. mogafestival.com
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LOT 2.01.01-2.01.02, PAVILION KUALA LUMPUR G14-15, SURIA KLCC KUALA LUMPUR
CONCIERGE | FEAST
HEY, PUMPKIN! October brings fall flavours along with Halloween so let’s get your blood pumpin’ for pumpkin with these pickings
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EAST VS WEST NAMOO ON THE PARK
Namoo on the Park serves pumpkin two ways: a pumpkin cake made from pumpkin, honey, tofu with fresh cream plus Mattang, as well as a traditional Korean snack of caramelised pumpkin and sweet potato.
namoo.com.my
ALL PUMPED UP GOODNESS GREENS
Looking for some belly-warming soup after a long day? Opt for Goodness Greens’ creamy pumpkin soup with a side of baguette slices for a light meal that’ll hit the spot. For something with a little bit more kick to it, try their Buddha Bowl. goodnessgreenscafe.com.my
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SEEDY TEMPTATION
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OH MY GOURD! PARADISE DYNASTY RESTAURANT
Squash your reservations about pumpkins and savour Paradise Dynasty’s take on the traditional pan fried pumpkin pastry. Hailing from China, this dessert is made from smashed pumpkin puree and glutinous rice flour, topped with a delicate sprinkle of sugar powder creating a chewy, bouncy texture.
VCR
VCR’s pumpkin seed ganache cookie is a deliciously crunchy cookie sandwiching a creamy pumpkin seed chocolate ganache. Pumpkin and chocolate all in one bite, how’s that for a Halloween treat? facebook.com/vcr.my
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FACES M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
The people, the parties and the events
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A GARDEN PARTY Dr Rachelle Chai and Chong Kai-Juen tie the knot in a contemporaty celebration with a traditional twist
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SOIREE
CLOSE-UP
THE INVITATION
ONLOOKER
IT GIRL
A birthday bash, dinner party and charity evening
Tan Sri Abdul Rahim opens up about his life goals
Two stunning couples tie the knot in lavish celebrations
The glitz, glamour and action at fun-filled events around town
Rebekah Yeoh flaunts her chic style with statement arm candy
FACES | SOIREE
Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir and Puan Sri Mastisa Mohamed
Lilah N a Datuk than and Dr Rav i Ponnia h
Marieka Christianson and Joshua Ponniah
Olivia Ponniah
Making a B
LILAH NATHAN’S 90TH BIRTHDAY PARTY Y A total of 500 of Datuk Dr Ravi Ponniah’s closest family members and friends from around the world travelled to Langkawi to celebrate his mother, Lilah Nathan’s 90th birthday. He worked together with his team on the island to plan the unforgettable night for her. The party—held in Naam’s Paradise 101 island—started off with a scenic ride on Naam’s fleet of yachts before the festivities continued on the island. Entertainment for the evening included a series of musical performances, fun activities for the children and a speed painting showcase by artist Haze Long. After the cake-cutting ceremony, guests were ushered to a canopied gazebo to witness the grand finale—a spectacular three-minute fireworks show that lit up the rainy night sky. The celebration ended with more dancing as the DJ spun music from the ’80s and ’90s.
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Rajiv Kapoor and Michelle Caporicci
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Jess Panesar, Daniel Charles, Bobby Bouchiki and Tom Haeusler
Dato’ Joshua Kevin
Frances Gleeson
e manc ork perfor tw Speed aze Long a artist H Saravanan Swamenathan and Arasi Narayanan
Ann Letchumy and Ananda Naidu
Steven Outlaw
THE INSIDER
Datuk Dr Ravi and his team at Naam worked tirelessly around the clock to complete the island’s facilities in time for the big party Lara and Jade Ponniah
FACES | SOIREE
Alexander Nielsen
During his speech paying tribute to his mother, the usually cool and collected Datuk Dr Ravi choked up with emotion midway through his delivery
Dato’ Ow Soon Kooi and Dato’ Kevin Yong
Rani Singam, Sivadas Nair and Yong Lee Kwong
Sunita Charles
Datin R o Lilah Na semary Ponnia h than an d Saras , a Nath
an
Alex Ponniah
C Viravikneshvar
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Sheela Thakurta and Sukdev Singh Chall
Don Yong and Miew Yee Yong
malaysia tatler . october 2017
Stephanie Tay and Datin Elaine Daly
Afiz Ariff, Yazween Dato’ Yahya, Datin Rozida Othman and Dato’ Azmall Jamaluddin
Ong Chin Cheong and Lim Geok Lian
Ho Kwee Hong Datuk Heah Kok Boon
THE INSIDER
Guests had the chance to get their hands pampered by Lancôme, and have their caricatures sketched on the spot
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Puspayanti Mohd Asraf, Adeline Khoo and Sally Seow
Freya Ng
SOIREE | FACES
Stylish Shindig Ong Jian Win and Liew Tian Xiong
MALAYSIA TATLER X ECOWORLD DINNER PARTY
Acquaintances old and new arrived at the lavish Eco Sanctuary’s Altimo bungalow showroom for a gathering to celebrate the latest launching by EcoWorld. Guests such as Datin Elaine Daly, Dato’ Azmall Jamaluddin, Datin Rozida Othman, Datin Winnie Loo and Dato’ Richard Teo were chauffeured to the bungalow courtesy of Wheelcorp Premium, before being serenaded by a smooth jazz ensemble. Martell ambassador Pierre Boyer gave a lovely introduction and instructions on how the Martell cognac is to be enjoyed, as guests got to taste different types of cognac, perfectly paired with the dishes served that night. Following the mouthwatering, unique and bespoke meal, guests were then treated to a cocktail workshop, where they learned how to mix and concoct their own drinks.
Dato’ Ch a and Sylv ng Khim Wah ia Gan
Jayden Liew, Datin Winnie Loo and Dato’ Richard Teo Ross Hamilton and Dato’ Lim Jit Lee
malaysia tatler . october 2017
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FACES | SOIREE
THE INSIDER
Pernod Ricardd was one of the official sponsorrs of the event that night Pierre Boyer
Joon Ong giving the cocktail workshop a go
n Dato’ Voo Tin Yow
The caricaturist at work Liew Boon Leong
Datin Yap Mui Lan
A BMW 740Le xDrive was on display in front of the villa, courtesy of Wheelcorp Premium
Datin Shirley Lim and Shirley Ooi-Hamilton
malaysia tatler . october 2017
Jane Leong, g Puan Sri Lim Suat Kiew, d Lionel Leong Rachel and
FACES | SOIREE ee and marie W e e s o R ’ Dato hequ ng the c presenti
Florence
Fang
tin Usha Nair and to’ Mohan Karthigasu
Hitting a High Note
A CHARITY EVENING WITH ADELE: HER LIFE AND SONGS True to their annual tradition of combining charity with good food, company and music, Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur’s area director of communications Dato’ Rosemarie Wee and Malaysia Tatler’s managing director Florence Fang did it again by organising a fundraising concert starring Naomi Price in character as singing sensation Adele. The funds raised from the concert went to the aid of children with life-threatening heart disease. A total of RM300,000 was raised, thanks to the support of generous members of society, which enabled families of the children to afford the surgeries at Gleneagles Hospital and save their children’s lives. Initially, only four children were supposed to undergo the surgery but the response from the donors was so positive that two more children were added to the list. Benefactors were able to meet some of the recipients themselves as some of the children and their families were present during the cheque presentation ceremony that evening.
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Naomi Price in her element as Adele
malaysia tatler . october 2017
Michele Kwok and Yee Choon Heng Kiran Jeyabalan, Quintin Tan, Tunku Wan Marina Jamil, Dato’ Kong Sooi Lin and Jamaludin Zakaria
Datin Joanna Low
Lee J im and N Leng icole T ham
Vivienne Cheng
Tan San Jean and Datin Regina Tan
THE INSIDER
Dance-loving Michele Kwok and Datin Regina Tan were spotted grooving to the music the moment the concert started
Datin Sharon Leaw and Dato’ Jaime Chan Abdullah
Antoine and Sabah Bakhache
Hans Isaac and Gabriella Robinson
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FACES | SOIREE Dato’ Hazali, Datin Nora, Datin Liza and Datin Hana Abu Hassan
Lim Wei-Ling and Yohan Rajan
, ra Loke atin Tia Ng D , g n o g Mei F ew and Angie an, Yon Ch Estee W i Ling, Justin e Yong M
Jared Ethan Ang
HELLO FROM THE OTHER SIDE Following an evening of laughter and conversation, the lights dimmed after the delicious dinner, signifying the start of the concert. With the help of a wig, a dazzling costume and bubbling with plenty of wit and candour, Naomi Price channelled Adele’s onstage persona perfectly. She also had the audience roaring with laughter at her quips, in between belting out the British singer’s radio-charting hits such as Rolling In The Deep, Hello and Chasing Pavements.
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Yap Po Leen
Dato’ Simon and Datin Mina Foong Datin Sri Barbara Yap
Diana Tan
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For the Love of Handcrafting THIS MONTH, PATEK PHILIPPE AND CORTINA WATCH MALAYSIA CELEBRATE ART AND CRAFTSMANSHIP IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE RELAUNCH OF THE SWISS WATCHMAKER’S BOUTIQUE IN SURIA KLCC. AND IN PARALLEL, TWO INSPIRED WOMEN GO ABOVE AND BEYOND TO UPHOLD THIS TRADITION TODAY AND FOR GENERATIONS TO COME
s we develop and progress as a human race, arts of old can be lost in the passing of time to make way for other talents. In light of facing possible extinction, a handful of notable individuals are taking the initiative to prevent these arts from facing extinction. In addition to this noble mission, the act of protecting these skills also gives opportunity and dignity to the craftsmen—assuring them that they will always have a place in the future despite the changing of times. In partnership with Cortina Watch Malaysia, here are the stories of Sasibai Kimis, Jacqueline Fong and the Stern family.
PATEK P HILIPPE , WHERE ARTISANS UTILISE THE AGE- OLD SKILLS OF DECORATING BY HAND — WHETHER WITH ENAMEL , ENGRAVING , OR MARQUETRY ; AND THE HIGHLY INTRICATE WORK MAKES EACH TIMEPIECE UNIQUE
HANDCRAFTSMANSHIP REMAINS A FIRM FIXTURE AT
P A T E K P H I L I P P E & C O R T I N A WA T C H S P E C I A L
P A T E K P H I L I P P E & C O R T I N A WA T C H S P E C I A L
P A T E K P H I L I P P E & C O R T I N A WA T C H S P E C I A L
Celebrating Craftsmanship
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graduate of The Wharton School and Cambridge University, Sasibai Kimis spent her twenties going back and forth between two opposite ends of the spectrum: commercial and community work. Four years ago, while travelling to Cambodia, Sasibai met young girls rescued from brothels at a village, who are trying to find dignified work via making arts and crafts for sale. This planted a seed in her head to start up Earth Heir, a social enterprise dedicated to the creation and preservation of heritage art forms. Her studio in Ampang sells products ranging from bags woven using natural fibres like mengkuang to recycled plastic as well as handicrafts such as nyonya beaded pouches and handmade jewellery. “Aside from wanting to help others, I also love beautiful things. There is a story behind every product. There’s no greater pride in wearing something that is made by hand just for you,” she says.
S ASIBAI HAS COME A LONG WAY SINCE SHE STARTED OUT FOUR YEARS AGO, SETTING UP STALLS IN FLEA MARKETS AND BAZAARS . S HE IS WEARING A PATEK P HILIPPE R EF : 7200/200R-001 IN ROSE GOLD, AVAILABLE AT C ORTINA WATCH S URIA KLCC AND STARHILL G ALLERY K UALA L UMPUR
P A T E K P H I L I P P E & C O R T I N A WA T C H S P E C I A L
Putting Soul Back in the Fabric of Society
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ven before she co-founded Sarawak-based social enterprise Tanoti, Jacqueline Fong has always loved textiles and fabrics. The play of thread and weave has always fascinated her, so it came as no surprise that when a friend approached her to take over a dismantling weaving workshop as a business, she said yes. Tanoti champions the art of songket, a Malay style of weaving. “Tanoti is definitely a challenging business. Our mission and vision are no longer only tied to financial or commercial goals. We are working to prevent the decline of an important craft like songket. It was difficult to start operations because we lacked the resources. We didn’t have a market, or contacts. But we just persevered,” she says. Tanoti has since expanded their team of weavers, which Jacqueline is proud of. “Malaysians should not abandon our national craft,” adds Jacqueline passionately.
J ACQUELINE AND HER TEAM AT TANOTI ARE DEDICATED TO EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN WEAVERS BY CREATING A VIABLE SOURCE OF INCOME FOR THEM . S HE IS WEARING PATEK P HILIPPE A NNUAL C ALENDAR (R EF : 4947G-001) IN WHITE GOLD , AVAILABLE AT C ORTINA WATCH S URIA KLCC AND STARHILL G ALLERY K UALA L UMPUR
P A T E K P H I L I P P E & C O R T I N A WA T C H S P E C I A L
P A T E K P H I L I P P E & C O R T I N A WA T C H S P E C I A L
CREATIVE DIRECTION: ALLAN CASAL; WORDS: LILY ONG; PORTRAITS: SHAFFIQ FARHAN; HAIR: ANGELINE LAW; MAKEUP: WAN NING
“In the creation of rare handcrafts, the key is pleasure: the pleasure of creating, of bringing to life, and obviously of sharing these objects within our family or with our clients.” — SANDRINE STERN
Handcrafting a Continuity ASIDE FROM CREATING BEAUTIFUL WATCHES FOR THE NEXT GENERATION, PATEK PHILIPPE IS ALSO DEDICATED IN PRESERVING ELABORATE HANDCRAFTS ASSOCIATED WITH WATCHMAKING, THAT DATES BACK TO THE 16TH CENTURY
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atek Philippe has been preserving age-old decorative skills that have been directly associated with horology for more than four centuries. The Stern family is dedicated in protecting these artistic skills for future generations. “Patek Philippe has always tried to preserve artistic crafts even when there was little demand. We would always provide artisans with work so they could maintain their dexterity and traditions,” says Philippe Stern, the stalwart behind the brand. His son Thierry agrees, “The beauty of handcrafted pieces is that the hand of the craftsman is indispensable.” This is why Patek Philippe retains the talents of artisans that are rare to find today, like chainsmiths. “Once upon a time, chain smithing was all the rage. Today, we have two working for us to keep it for the future,” says Philippe. Aside from chain smithing, other crafts under Patek Philippe’s protection include marquetry-making, enamelling, gem-
setting, guilloché and engraving. Each year, Patek Philippe produces around 40 one-of-a-kind works of rare handcraftsmanship. The regular collection is also enriched annually with new models decorated by artisans at the top of their game. The Sterns themselves are involved, especially Thierry and his wife Sandrine, the head of watch creation for the brand. Patek Philippe continues to commission work from gifted artisans to preserve these age-old decorative skills and maintain their dedication to rare handcrafts. Safeguarding these ancient professions comes with its own rewards, as Thierry and Sandrine attest to in interviews. “In the creation of rare handcrafts, the key is pleasure: the pleasure of creating, of bringing to life, and obviously of sharing these objects within our family or with our clients,” concludes Sandrine in describing why the entire Patek Philippe family is steadfast in this noble act of art conservation.
P A T E K P H I L I P P E & C O R T I N A WA T C H S P E C I A L
FACES | CLOSE-UP
The Real Deal
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hat’s when I decided that one day, when I go back, I’m going to start my own company,” said the man who had been in practice for 40 years, and gone through three recessions in his career—after relaying the story of his younger years, studying in both Kelantan and the UK, then working at London Borough of Hounslow as a property manager, before returning to Malaysia. After years of running the firm, he shares what he loves and hates about the industry. “What I enjoy most out of this whole thing is being able to successfully run the company; our records show that we only had a staff of three in the beginning! Since then it has grown to become a professional body that gains the trust of clients and makes money for me and for my staff. I can have a comfortable life, and contribute to others’ lives via employment, as well as the country at large,” he disclosed. “What I dislike the most is to be forced and influenced by clients in order to meet their requirements. Therefore, my instructions to my managers and signing officers are clear—we must always think rationally, and profit will come when we’re professional in handling trust. Trust doesn’t come easily, it has to be built over the years.” Those familiar with Rahim & Co should know that the company’s slogan is inspired by its chairman who lives by it: anything worth doing is worth doing well. “I’d rather not do a job or accept a job if I know that I cannot carry it out,” he explained. And one thing that Tan Sri Abdul Rahim does exceptionally well is taking good care of his staff. “I take
absolute pride in saying that we have the lowest turnover rate. I never had to retrench; of course, there are exceptions with those who do not behave professionally. When this happens, I will sit them down, tell them what they have done wrong, and explain that we have no alternative but to let them go. If we don’t do that, the contribution to the company and society would be lost.” Where contributions are concerned, three people have shaped Tan Sri’s life. His mother, who was not educated but managed to open a business by sheer hard work—buying and selling chicken, until it was enough to set up shop—inspired him to get into business. The second was his father, who, despite the olden day view that sending your children to an English school was haram (forbidden), pushed for his son’s education. “Being a teacher, being paid peanuts, he was able to raise three children and made sure I went to school,” Tan Sri Abdul Rahim added. The third, was his late wife, Datin Zainab Rahim, who was always behind him in all the decisions that he made. “Because I wanted to open a business of my own, she left her teaching profession to join me fulltime as an estate agent. Like they say, behind every successful man there is a woman. That is essentially what my wife was to me.” What of regrets? This man said he has very few. “I have raised my children and gave them the best education they can have, and I think we’re a very happy family. I hope that when I go, they have a legacy to remember and more importantly, the will to continue to run the company. In life, I suppose you have to lose your loved ones, and I’ve lost those who have shaped my life, but life has to go on. And I hope that I have shaped my children’s lives to be better than it is today.”
“Anything worth doing is worth doing well”
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PHOTOGRAPHY: SHAFFIQ FARHAN; ART DIRECTION: SYAHLIA ALBINA SARI
As Rahim & Co celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, Kathlyn D’Souza speaks to the founder of one of Malaysia’s largest real estate consultancy firms, Tan Sri Abdul Rahim Abdul Rahman
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malaysia tatler . october 2017
TH HE INVITATION | FACES
THE INSIDER
The new in-laws— Datuk Radzali Hassan, Datin Salmah Radzali, Dato’ Shahidah Jamal and Iskandar Basha Abdul Kadir
From Classmates to Soulmates The 10-year courtship between Syanas Yasmen Datuk Radzali and Sheikh Imran Iskandar finally culminated in an unforgettable wedding
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n august 24, two lovebirds who have been together since they were teenagers finally tied the knot. They had met in high school, but back then, Syanas thought that Imran was a bit of a snob. While the two got closer, their parents thought that it was nothing more than merely puppy love, but it amounted to so much more than that. As Syanas Yasmen’s mother, Datin Salmah had said during her speech at the reception, “Little did I know, this one was here to stay.” Nearly a decade of friendship has blossomed into a lifetime together, and these high school sweethearts are now husband and wife. The night was filled with much laughter and heartfelt joy, especially with how close-knit the family and guests were. As people busied themselves outside with photo-taking prior to the event, the ceremony began with the bridal entourage’s regal entrance through the grand staircase of the Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, before they proceeded to the lavish and extravagant pelamin. As prayers and a sumptuous dinner followed, guests were delighted when out stepped jazz sensation and performer Noryn Aziz, as she belted out euphonious and beloved jazzy tunes that added to the cheerful ambience of the entire night. A video was then shown to the guests during the reception, featuring snapshots of the couple’s traditional nikah, Indian-style mehndi night as well as other colourful celebrations that took place a week prior to the reception.
malaysia tatler . october 2017
THE WEDDING RECEPTION OF SHEIKH IMRAN AND SYANAS YASMEN WHEN August 24, 2017 WHERE Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur DID YOU KNOW Wedding extraordinaire Pak Abu was behind the evening’s magical setup
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FACES | THE INVITATION
Dato’ Sri Meer Sadik Habib and Datin Sri Zarida Noordin
Danisha Kamalbaran, Zuly Kamaruddin and Ivin Tan
The newlywed s happily danc ing to Bhangra mus ic after the ce remonies
Dato’ Jasmy Ismail The bride surrounded by all her friends bedecked in traditional outfits
THE INSIDER
Guests were so excited and stoked for the photo wall booth at the foyer that they had meticulously arranged themselves in a queue without any prompting
Puan Sri Nora Shariff and Tan Sri Zainul Azman
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malaysia tatler . october 2017
The mehndi night took place a few weeks prior to the reception
FACES | THE INVITATION Datin Amelia and Dato’ Abdul Kayum Syed Ahmad
A NIGHT OF EMOTION AND DEVOTION The bride and groom took it upon themselves to convey their heartfelt gratitude and thanks to their friends and family, inciting tears from guests all around. This was followed by an equally emotional speech by the parents of the bride, as well as the bride’s siblings.
Sofia Dato’ Mohd Ishak
Zainul Azrin Tan Sri Zainul Azman
Shairaah Radzali, ah Abidah Rahimansh ali dz Ra ue ziq Ra and
Nadia and Danial Dato’ Feroz
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Dato’ King Tan and Datin Joan Tan
malaysia tatler . october 2017
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MAKEUP: ZAMRI ZAINOL USING LANCÔME; STYLING: ANDREA KEE; PHOTOGRAPHY: KIM MUN
L A NC ÔM E SPE CI A L FE AT U R E
ABSOLUTE RADIANCE
ZAIDA IBRAHIM ON ENRICHING LIFE WITH PRECIOUS VALUES AND EXPERIENCES
There is a luminosity to Zaida Ibrahim’s beauty that emanates from within, a halo-like quality that enhances her exotic look. A former global corporate banker by profession, Zaida is presently the founder and creative director of Curated Co, a niche online retailing platform. This stylish fashionista also wields influence in her social media platform, where she inspires her 34,000 followers with snapshots of her life as a businesswoman, wife and mother. Zaida has gone through many ups and downs in her journey as an entrepreneur. “Starting out on my own has taught me so much: how to negotiate in business, how to manage people in different lines of work and how to make more strategic decisions. Over roughing things out, I also learnt, what I loved to do was marketing and branding— so I have cultivated that into a business as well,” she says with a smile. Motherhood has also enriched her life, as Zaida shares that her eight-year-old son Adam Arif has taught her the importance of empathy. “I have learnt how to put myself in Adam’s shoes when I talk to him. In turn that has helped me deal with
others as well, in business, so we can find a winwin solution,” she expressed. While her business and family duties keep her occupied, Zaida believes it is important for a woman to have time for herself. Once a week, she would carve time in her schedule to do something on her own, be it having lunch at a place she likes or just catching up with her sisters or girlfriends. “I feel guilty sometimes, but it is important for me to centre myself, so I can take better care of my family,” she reveals. Another favourite me-time indulgence for Zaida is when she is attending to her daily skincare routine—and she absolutely swears by the Lancôme Absolue Precious Cells range. “I really do see the difference after using the products. I don’t get much breakouts and I know my skin is well-moisturised and maintained. I don’t even need to re-apply day or night creams more than once after I wash my face, because my skin feels so moisturised after I apply the products,” shares the tall, tanned beauty, adding that her confidence h , has naturally been boosted than glowing complexion.
LANCÔME’S ABSOLUE PRECIOUS CELLS IS A COLLECTION OF RADIANCE REGENERATING SKINCARE PRODUCTS. ENRICHED WITH THE PATENTED PRO-XYLANE™, LANCÔME FUSED THIS POWERFUL INGREDIENT WITH PRECIOUS OILS TO HELP REVEAL A YOUTHFUL APPEARANCE.
FACES | THE INVITATION
Shanghai Nights Chong Kai-Juen weds Rachelle Chai in a dream garden ceremony followed by a Shanghai Night themed gala dinner
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t was a wedding worthy of envy, when Dr Rachelle Chai walked down the aisle to join Chong Kai-Juen in holy matrimony in an outdoor, garden party themed ceremony. The weather was cool and breezy, and balloons danced in the air as music played in the background. The courtyard of The Weil Hotel, Ipoh, was transformed into a wedding wonderland, complete with a bridal arch, ornamental overhangs on trees, fairy lights and an outdoor live band—totally captivating the 100 or so guests who felt as if they were “in someone’s private garden on a perfect summer’s day,” to quote one guest. There were tears of laughter and joy as the bridal couple made their vows in front of Miles Toulmin, pastor of Holy Trinity Bukit Bintang, during the touching and meaningful ceremony. Guests later enjoyed the sunset over the courtyard before they adjourned for the reception, where they mingled and socialised over a selection of canapes, kueh and cocktails in a Shanghai Night setting. From the table seating’s individual place cards to the customised menus, the lavish decor of fresh flowers that hung alongside rich luscious drapes, as well as the choice of music played by a live band and even the bar, every finishing touch was carefully crafted and planned down to the last detail, so that guests have the best experience within the setting of a bygone era of Shanghai opulence. The photobooth, with its dramatic backdrop featuring a rich tapestry of peonies formed around the couple’s names, was kept busy all night, as was the award-winning calligrapher who was specially invited to help write out guests’ names and well wishes. The bridal couple’s entrance was no less dramatic, preluded by a dancing duo who cha-cha’d their way from the stage to the ballroom entrance, whereupon the couple then walked in to an inspiring violin concerto by the live band from KL.
Dato’ Ruby Khong
WEDDING OF CHONG KAI-JUEN AND RACHELLE CHAI WHEN July 15, 2017 WHERE The Weil Hotel, Ipoh DID YOU KNOW The bridegroom is the eldest son of Mr and Mrs Chong Him Shoong and grandson of the late Tan Sri Chong Kok Lim— one of Perak’s biggest tin mining legends, and icon, who was very much a contributing factor to ‘the city that tin built’
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Dr Chai Hoon Seong and Yvonee Chai
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Groomsmen and bridesmaids welcoming the newlyweds back, with sparklers and cheers during their second entrance
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FACES | THE INVITATION Chong Pei-Shyen and Chong Yin-Shyen
Dato’ Dr Raymond Chai with wife Datin Nicole and their children Abby and Austin
Angie S Wern S eow and ze Gill
Bridesmaids’ dresses matched the Shanghai Night themed decorations
Hugo Chong and Tiffany Oon Tan Sri Lee Oi Hian, Puan Sri Sandra Lee and Lee Wen-Ling THE INSIDER
The bride, Dr Rachelle Chai, is an accomplished orthodontic surgeon
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Lighting o f exchange the unity candle a fte of vows c eremony r the outdoors
Patra Urairat, Kai Zen Au, Hannah Lee, Yin-Shyen Chong, Tzi Hua Au, Thanya Urairat and Chong Pei-Shyen
Maureen Tan and Tan Chor Eng
The Shanghai Night reception following the garden ceremony, transported guests back to a bygone era of Shanghai opulence Sunny Chong, Cindy Chong, Dato’ Lee Seng Hee and Chong Chu Khim Jacqueline Chan and Peggy Lim
Tan Sri Lin See Yan
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SWISS WATCH GALLERY PRESENTS ROLEX
R E V E L L I N G I N T H E R E VA M P E D R O L E X B O U T I Q U E AT PAV I L I O N K UA L A L U M P U R
Swiss Watch Gallery unveils a state-of-the-art space befitting the Swiss watchmaking icon’s illustrious stature
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Time and tide wait for no man, as evidenced by the quick albeit exciting decade that has swept by since Swiss Watch Gallery and Rolex began their thriving partnership, marking it with the launch of the largest Rolex standalone boutique in Southeast Asia at the time. The talk of the town, the landmark boutique in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur has reopened with a fresh facelift, further sealing the camaraderie between the luxury watch retailer and the crown of Swiss watchmaking.
SWISS WATCH GALLERY PRESENTS ROLEX
A S PAC E I N T E G R A L TO I N T E G R I T Y
No expense was spared to achieve a space that reflects Rolex’s refined craftsmanship and integrity. Minute details mirror the brand’s most iconic timepiece, the Oyster—the world’s first waterproof wristwatch. Redolent of the ocean and its splendour, the boutique boasts of eye-catching interior design, including an illuminated Aqua wall with sinuous wave motifs. Spanning 158 square metres, the spanking new boutique sees walnut wood cabinets polished to a high shine, elegant bronze detailing and the brand’s symbolic fivepoint crown emblazoned on several planes as a point-of-pride. Be it your first Rolex or an exciting addition to a beloved long-held collection, expect impeccable customer service—a Swiss Watch Gallery hallmark. It certainly complements the elegant salesroom, designed to provide a truly luxurious experience with bespoke and private service. This exquisite setting allows you the pleasure of savouring that special moment when you find your perfect Rolex timepiece.
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Designed with the dainty dame in mind, this timepiece harks back to 1945, and has since become a touchstone of debonair chronometers. The new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Lady-Datejust 28 sees several advancements beyond its redesigned, larger 28mm case, such as a case in 904L steel as well as a Rolesor version, and the calibre 2236, a self-winding mechanical movement equipped with the Rolex-patented Syloxi hairspring in silicon.
SWISS WATCH GALLERY PRESENTS ROLEX
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A balancing act between the art of horology and jewellery design, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Pearlmaster 39 possesses a bezel broader than those of its predecessors for the primary purpose of displaying dazzling diamonds in the best possible light. Marrying precious metals and precious gems, this piece is also about performance, equipped with the sophisticated calibre 3235 featuring the innovative Chronergy escapement patented by the brand.
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The skipper’s watch
Explore uncharted waters with the utmost confidence. Equipped with innumerable features and functions yet endowed with a smooth, straightforward interface, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II is a professional regatta watch renowned for its programmable countdown
system.
Guaranteed
waterproof
to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet), the latest model of the Yacht-Master II has a new face: modifications on the dial—contrasting hour markers plus an hour hand with a luminescent disc—serve to enhance visibility during blustery days at sea.
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Gem-setting in many hues
Brimming with substance and style, this timepiece can be considered the free-spirited and sophisticated sister in the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master family. Encased in 18 ct Everose gold, cool characteristics include the comfortable elastomer Oysterflex strap, a bidirectional rotatable bezel adorned with a kaleidoscope of gems, and the well-known Superlative Chronometer certification which guarantees superlative performance on the wrist in terms of precision, power reserve, waterproofness and self-winding.
FACES | ONLOOKER
THE INSIDER
The King’s English LUNCHEON TALK BY TUNKU ZAIN AL-’ABIDIN Hosted by the Englishspeaking Union of Malaysia (ESUM) and officiated by Tunku Dara Naquiah, the luncheon revolved around a talk by Tunku Zain Al-’Abidin, who is the founding president of the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs. In his speech, he addressed the growing need to promote international understanding via proper use of the English language to a number of esteemed guests present.
Iris Tan and Tunku Dara Naquiah
Young members of the Malaysian Institute for Debate and Public Speaking were also honoured at the event
Chin Li Yeun, Sugunamalar Vijayaratnam and Ganakumaran Subramaniam
Dato’ John Louis O’Hara
Sarah Deverall and Jagdish Bhain
Tunku Za in Al-’Abidin
Osman and Nazie Morad
Datin Shalini Ganendra
Datuk Kamarudin Ali, Raja Tan Sri Arshad Uda, Chandra Sakaran and Puan Sri K Johari
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Joanne Yew and Natalia Ng
FACES | ONLOOKER Maxi Lim, Orlando Bloom and Carla Dunareanu
and Christiane k n ru Lina B
Kelly Latimer
Dato’ Sri Daniel and Datin Sri Linda Chiang THE INSIDER
Momentous Milestone 130 YEARS OF BRAUN BÜFFEL Some 400 guests gathered in the cavernous space of the National Gallery of Singapore to celebrate the 130th anniversary of the luxury leather goods brand. Guests ran the gamut from The Lord of The Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean actor Orlando Bloom to Dato’ Sri Daniel Chiang, director of LianbeeJeco, as well as Christiane Brunk, managing director and fourth-generation owner of Braun Büffel.
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Geoffrey Teo, Chong Wong, Audrey Wong and Tengku Faradiza Baharuddin
Orlando Bloom was suited up in a jacket and timepiece by Braun Büffel
Nellie Lim, Charmaine Seah-Ong and Elspeth Ng
DJ Patrick Oliver
malaysia tatler . october 2017 Lisa MarieWhite
Two refugee artisans from Myanmar
FACES | ONLOOKER Mark and Joan Tan
Glimmer of Hope PEARLY WONG SZE WOMEN OF HOPE FASHION SHOW
Richard Towle
Fancy Goh, Lyndia Lee and Rachel Yap
Michelle Chai and Lyn Siew THE INSIDER
Supported by Corum watches and the United Nations Refugee Agency, the Sze Women of Hope Fashion Show saw bold, billowy garments designed by Pearly Wong and sewn by refugee artisans from Pakistan and Myanmar. The Malaysian designer is providing vocational training plus a platform for them to sell their products.
The collection is lightweight and adheres to sustainable practices
Marth Maier and Ron Sparling
Wendy Chow and Pearly Won g Chris Wan
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FACES | ONLOOKER Cilla Foo ng Chery W and ong
Beyond Beauty CLÉ DE PEAU BEAUTÉ LAUNCHES LE FOND DE TEINT In conjunction with the launch of Le Fond de Teint/ The Foundation, Clé de Peau Beauté celebrated eight Malaysian women and their successes. The private event held at the Parkson Elite cosmetic floor in Pavilion saw friends of the brand and media eagerly awaiting the launch. Six of the eight brand ambassadors were in attendance and gave a brief interview session on their passions, struggles and successes.
Tanny Tee
Mark Dickson and Dr Yvonne Sum
Irin Tee
Veronica Shim, Lilian Lo and Charmain Liew
Derrick Tan Dato’ Joneser Choi, Datin Sri Joey Tor and Kimberly Yang
Datin Sri Noniswara Al Sheikh
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Pauline Gan and Cindy Chui
ITAL IA N PATEN T
FACES | ONLOOKER Ryzal Jaafar
Ariessa Leanne and Jennifer Ling
mber hang, A Tai P n N u y J d Wend Chia an
Daniel Woodroof and Timur Gabriel
THE INSIDER
Guests had fun playing model for the camera at the mirrored booth setup
Robin Ng and Samantha Katie James
Linda Law and Amanda Chaang
Dreamy Dawn DUCHESS & CO LAUNCHES DAWN COLLECTION Duchess & Co launched their dreamy collection, Dawn, with a glitzy bash at Zebra Square. Guests enjoyed the spread of canapes and free flow of wine and champagne while taking turns being photographed at the photo booth. Anticipation buzzed in the air when the doors opened and guests got to view the creations which featured tiers of ruffles, soft draped silhouettes and feminine details—definitely an exciting collection.
Brian John, Elaine Tan and Matthew Benjamin
Ammar Alfian and Nelissa Nezam
Siti Saleha
98 Catherine Sumitri
FACES | ONLOOKER
Seal of Approval
Choo Yit Lee and Stephanie Soon
LAUNCH OF SEALY’S NEW COLLECTION
Prudence Loh and Cheng Yew Hoon Nita Ooi
h Derek Yeo ng a T l u a P and
Emily Chow
Imagine sinking into a cloud of bedding designed with you in mind? That’s pure luxury, is it not? Mattress brand Sealy proved it with the introduction of its Posturepedic Enhance collection, which was launched in collaboration with boutique property developer Bön Estates. Guests were invited to lay down on the mattress retailing from RM30- to RM40k to test out its comfort factor, as they toured The Estate show unit in a level upstairs, before they were ushered downstairs to feast on wine and canapes.
Jean and Peter Cheong
Lisa Ling and Ling Chee Hoe Wan Adli, Chan Kit Keong and Ng Kee Peng
Goh Soo Sing THE INSIDER
Guests enjoyed chilled wine from the Barossa Valley while the delicious canapes were beautifully prepared by Monster Chef
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Angela Yap
FACES | ONLOOKER Chai Ai Ping and Patrick So
Tangy Affair Ta
James Loke an Kong Keen Ye d e Roland Chew Tay Ai Leen
TA ANGS MALAYSIA NNUAL BUSINESS AN PARTNERS PARTY Tangs threw an awards recognition party for the retail business partners of its Tangs Malaysia and BVO retail stores. Held at the Veranda Bar & Lounge of VE Hotel & Residences, the event serves to recognise and honour business partnerships and accord top awards to their retail partners.
Diana Lim and Genalyn Deguzman
Datin Lea Chan, Emitsa Salim Shirazi and Alex Yoong
Dennis Lau
Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz
Rising High M101 SKYWHEEL DESIGN SUITES LAUNCH Dato’ Seth Yap of M101 and Roland Heiler of Studio F.A. Porsche launched the M101 Skywheel Design Suites with great fanfare, punctuated with a convoy of Porsche cars and a fireworks display.
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Yap Dato’ Seth Heiler d n la o R and
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Karlie Kloss
Roger Vivier
NEW STAR RISING The Boîte de Nuit Star Stripes clutch as seen on Rihanna (pictured below) and shoe, feature the revamped Roger Vivier buckle as a jewel-encrusted star
iva ivier!
is fleeting bu forever as Roger Vivier proves. Withstanding the test of time, the brand continues to draw in fans aplenty ccentric, worldly, and with an appreciation for vintage classics, the Roger Vivier woman is a hybrid of past and present— constantly a whirlwind of colour and passion with the delicious scent of rebellion clinging to her. Every bit as alike as the person from whom the brand was birthed. Vivier was always the trend-setter, experimenting with the unlikeliest materials in addition to the creation of the seductive stiletto. However, the iconic Vivier buckle did not appear until 1965 as part of the Belle Vivier shoe which shot to fame when worn by Catherine Deneuve. With his passing, the baton was handed over to creative director Bruno Frisoni and it’s almost like Vivier never left. Brighter, bolder and tweaked to suit the modern woman but still authentically Vivier, Frisoni reinterprets Vivier’s work while never losing sight of the brand’s soul and philosophy. In fact, Frisoni turned the famous name into a luxury brand renowned for its accessories. The range has now expanded from just carrying Vivier's beloved shoes to a delightfully vibrant collection of bags, small leather goods, belts and sunglasses. As proof that Vivier’s designs are indeed timeless classics, several notable celebs such as Karlie Kloss, Miranda Kerr, Nicole Kidman, Rihanna and Michelle Yeoh have all been spotted with understated glamorous pieces from the brand.
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BRAND NEW BELLE The modern Belle Vivier, a sleeker update to the classic Belle Vivier shoe which debuted in 1965
Rihanna
FACES | IT GIRL
Got It In The Bag
VALENTINO
Rebekah Yeoh, a style icon to many, turns heads in her trendy and elegant fashion selections paired with statement arm candy
HERMÈS CELINE
BAG OF TRICKS
Rebekah opts for a minimalist approach when it comes to accessorising, but always has a statement bag
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SULWHASOO SPECIAL
AN ELIXIR OF RENEWAL, REVITALISE YOUR SKIN WITH THE POWER OF GINSENG
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n times of stress and hectic work schedules, it’s often our skin that suffers the most. Combined with the body’s natural ageing processes, fine lines, sagging and dry skin are a constant—or is it? If ginseng is as good for the skin as it is for the body when consumed, then Sulwhasoo’s
Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream EX is a ‘superfood’ for the skin. The culmination of Sulwhasoo’s 50 years of ginseng research, Sulwhasoo’s Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream EX is infused with the anti-ageing power of red ginseng to boost the skin’s regeneration and defence functions with a shot of the precious anti-ageing Compound K, derived from the red ginseng roots and Ginsenoside Re found in the ginseng flower—the source of ginseng vitality. Whether you decide on the profound scent of ginseng or the lighter, fresher scent of ginseng flowers, both the original and light versions of the cream work to smoothen and eliminate signs of ageing such as dryness, loss of firmness, and dullness, thus turning back the hands of time to reveal your skin’s youthful beauty.
SULWHASOO SPECIAL
Beauty of Harmony and Balance It takes plenty of guts and grit to transition from a steady income and job security to building a start-up with a concept that is rather alien to our society—but that’s exactly what girl boss Francesca Chia has done. Since its conception in 2014, GoGet, the brainchild of the former management consultant and her friends, hasn’t always been sunshine and roses, but for Francesca, it’s about helping people to help others.
However, despite her hectic schedule, she still manages to find the time to relax and unwind, often starting her work day with a morning yoga session. A self-professed foodie, she spends her time cooking and eating healthy—even preparing meals for her husband on weekdays. Weekends are reserved for herself however, slotting in time with family and friends in between her creative hobbies. While finding balance has been a juggling act of organising her priorities, Francesca doesn’t neglect her skin in the midst of taking on the roles of boss, wife, daughter and friend. With a beauty routine just as thoughtfully planned as her schedule, Francesca attributes her healthy skin to being a loyal user of Sulwhasoo. “Using Sulwhasoo’s Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream EX helped maintain my skin’s youthfulness; I’m really glad that my skin still feels and looks smooth and clear. It also makes me feel energised and I go through my day feeling great,” she says. “Ageing well has always been important to me; I believe we should take care of ourselves so as to be able to contribute to society, and that includes taking care of our skin.”
WORDS: RACHEL NG; ART DIRECTION: ALLAN CASAL; PHOTOGRAPHY: SHAFFIQ FARHAN; MAKEUP AND HAIR: SHALLEE LEE
As CEO and cofounder of the open-market personal assistant platform, she doesn’t just attend corporate meetings and deal with clients, she also takes time to check up on how her coworkers are doing. Since the dawn of GoGet, the business has helped to change lives; providing opportunities for those who may not be able to work in the traditional workforce. GoGet was built with the intention to empower people and attempt to eliminate the friction and biases of the traditional labour market. Attributing trust and teamwork to be the driving forces that help build her team, GoGet doesn’t just represent a concept but Francesca’s go-getter attitude as well.
IMAGE: RICHARD MILLE
STYLE M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
Beautiful things to have and hold
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ARTFUL ALLIANCE The sunny Australian actress Margot Robbie is the new face of Richard Mille, and it’s a beauteous visage
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IT'S A FUR-ENZY
FORCE OF NATURE
ANYTHING GOES
MORE THAN SKIN DEEP
ARCHT ALLURE
Snuggle up in Miu Miu’s F/W17 befurred collection because this is as cosy as it gets
Fendi celebrates this season's vibrance with fur and flora
Designers further blur the boundaries of what’s au courant with the new season
Shiseido reveals the living energy that powers up its skincare
DeGem rebirths architectural wonders as exquisite jewels with its new collection
STYLE | NEWS
S U S TA I N I N G STYLE Modern and vintage meet in a suave new fashion wave of classic British elegance and sleek modern cuts Quintessential Brit boy is the in thing this season with duffel coats, plaid and that quirky cool gentlemanly style making a comeback. There’s a very earthy vibe going on in Stella McCartney’s F/W17 men’s collection, and rightly so. For the do-gooder who cares about the earth and yet wants to make waves in the fashion scene, this is the collection for you. Made from sustainable materials, which include organic textiles, regenerated cashmere, eco alter nappa, recycled nylon and polyester, you will be feeling good and looking even better. The print party is still going strong though, so bring out the plaid and houndstooth checks in streamlined silhouettes with some of Stella McCartney’s straight-cut pants and sleek suits.
TWO-FACED
BOY NEXT DOOR Preppy and laidback, Stella McCartney F/W17 nails the nonchalant Brit boy style
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It’s not a good thing if someone calls you two-faced, but when it comes to Aigner’s Janus bag it wouldn’t be out of place. Featuring buttery soft black leather and silver hardware, this bag is a minimalistic beauty. The clasp isn’t just for decorative purposes, it gives the bag a sleek trapezoid shape and then unhooks to reveal a duffel bag silhouette for more room to stash your belongings.
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MAKE IT SNAPPY All you need to look polished is an impeccably cut blazer or jacket. Paul Smith’s F/W17 British tailoring range combines the British Teddy Boy style of the 1950s with iconic Brit patterns, making this wardrobe staple a great investment, so suit up!
This autumn, Pedro’s small leather goods collection highlights the striking effect of colour blocking. Black leather gets a little boost of warm chocolate with a playful streak on both the cardholder and embossed leather organiser. It’s a good way to hop on the colour block wagon without being over the top with colour play.
SHEAR COMFORT
If you’re looking for warm, fluffy comfort this autumn, look no further than Tod’s latest collection. Lined in plush shearling, you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds!
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ENZ R U F A IT’S
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collection Miu Miu’s F/W17 befurred is as cosy as it gets Feathers, fluff and plenty of fur ruffs dominated the stage at Miu Miu’s F/W17 collection. Colours ranged from muted hues to saccharine candy pastels and even the occasional neon, a much-welcomed change from the sombre shades of autumn and winter. Luxurious pelts came in the form of oversized coats that are sure to keep you warm and cosy throughout the colder days to come, while hats and shoes took on equally befurred transformations. Think kitschy luxe with some flapper flair thrown in for good measure. If it’s a hairy issue when it comes to wearing fur, fear not. Miu Miu only uses eco-fur and has sworn off real fur for quite some time now. Fluffy giant baker boy hats compete with exaggerated shoulders, and make for plenty of drama dressing that will elevate your style game. If you can’t think of anything comfier than being engulfed by a fuzzy blanket of comfort then Miu Miu is the one for you.
STRUT YOUR FLUFF Can’t keep your hands off anything with a fuzzy feel to it? Prada will have your itch scratched with their fuzzy bags. A furry bag is adorable but a classy shoulder bag in candy colours with a furry strap just screams ‘Are you fur real?’.
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NEWS | STYLE
LOCAL FLAIR Catching up with Afiq Mohamed at the exhibits post-KLFW17, the softspoken designer tells us a little about his latest designs. “My collection is all about women’s empowerment,” he said describing it. He shares that the strength of a woman—juggling career and family, all while maintaining her personal life is the muse behind his designs. While extravagantly flashy, the pieces are what would usually form the backbone of a chic career woman’s wardrobe. Comfort isn’t a question despite the sharper silhouettes, plus fabric is soft, ranging from wide pinstriped linen to a more casual suit combo and a sleek black blazer.
LONG FOR FALL
’Tis the season to go long, as hems are extending, making it easier to survive colder temperatures, be it overseas or in notoriously chilly offices.
DOUBLE DUTY Donna Karan’s classics-with-atwist will be just as suited for a corporate job as it is for a day out
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CHANNELLING CHANEL Gabrielle Chanel was an avid equestrian, practically living in her boots. So it seems only fitting that the House of Chanel pays tribute to her in their F/W17 collection with a riding boot evolved to fit the urban woman. Elegant and comfortable, the mid-calf boots are two-toned and come in suede with a black satin toe cap, engraved with the signature ‘Gabrielle Chanel’ and subtitled ‘Coco’.
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STYLE | PROFILE Miss Dior Cherie perfume
I’m a rainbow kind of girl Tarte eye palette
PRETTY IN PASTELS Nikita channels a tropical vibe with a signature kaftan from Owl by Dowlani
Colourful Soul
Owl kimono
Nikita Dowlani charms us with her bright
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love colours!” exclaims Nikita Dowlani before listing bright pink, teal and yellow as her all-time favourites. The founder of luxe resort fashion label Owl by Dowlani shares that her top fashion tip is to jazz up any outfit with a pop of colour. “If I have a lot of running around to do, I like to keep things simple with a plain tee, shorts and throw on a kimono,” she says. “It’s all about ease and comfort; minimum effort but maximum impact, and being able to move around effortlessly while feeling your best.” This fashionista is often spotted in her own kaftan designs and enjoys dolling up with fiercely feminine accessories and statement flats. “We often see people go through phases but my sense of style has always been consistent with bold prints and exciting hues,” she says thoughtfully. Always on the go, Dowlani seeks to empower women with her hand-painted prints that artfully illustrate the stories of her life.
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Nars liquid eyeliner
Bulgari sunglasses
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WORDS: PRIYANKA MOHAN; PHOTOGRAPHY: SHAFFIQ FARHAN; ART DIRECTION: SYAHLIA ALBINA SARI
personality and vibrant fashion style
FASHION | STYLE
Sequin Sensation Think sequins are only meant for disco balls? Emporio Armani’s F/W17 women’s collection will have you thinking otherwise
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lashes of electric blue and daring scarlet streak through the bevy of sequinned beauties from Emporio Armani’s F/W2017 womenswear range. Much like stars glittering in the velvet black of the night sky, sequins add plenty of shimmer and shine. While often overlooked, these tiny light catchers simply ooze flirty drama when paired with the right silhouettes. A shimmering waterfall of sequin scales suggest an exotic fish, every movement echoed throughout the length of the garment making it as much a living, breathing creature as the person wearing it. A simple top is given a makeover with the paillettes showcasing a kaleidoscope of hues through every movement, while a sequinned cropped blouse layered over a gauzy embellished undershirt screams seduction. Whatever the cut, Emporio Armani does it justice with a delicate layer of sequins that change patterns with every breath, creating lively trompe-l’oeil effects. With endless interpretations to suit every personal style, these pieces are chic and suitable for any occasion.
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SHINE ON THIS
Dressed up or down, sequins are the ultimate subtle glamour piece that can jazz up any look
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TATLER FOCUS | FENDI
FORCE OF NATURE Shot against the brand’s headquarters in Rome, Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana, Fendi’s Fall 2017 Haute Fourrure collection celebrates the vibrant elegance of the season with a flurry of fur and flora
Photography THE PULMANNS Fashion director JUSTINE LEE
RAINBOW CONNECTION Dress of embroidered mink appliquéd with flowers in mink and leather by Fendi Haute Fourrure. Opposite page: Hand-painted coat of shaved mink appliquéd with flowers of mink, feathers and silk organza; pointed suede heels with appliquéd flowers; Anemone handbag, all by Fendi Haute Fourrure
FENDI | TATLER FOCUS
TECHNICOLOUR DREAM Hand-painted organza dress with mink and fox fur; pointed calfskin heels, both by Fendi Haute Fourrure. Opposite page: Macramé lace dragonfly dress appliquéd with embroidered mink and organza flowers, by Fendi Haute Fourrure
TATLER FOCUS | FENDI
FUR REAL Lynx coat with inlays of sable and mink flowers; pointed calfskin heels, both by Fendi Haute Fourrure. Opposite page: Jacquard dress appliquĂŠd with mink and fox flowers, by Fendi Haute Fourrure
HAIR: MARCO MINUNNO AT WM MANAGEMENT; MAKE-UP: ARIANNA CAMPO AT CLOSE UP MILANO; MODEL: NIMUE SMIT AT CODE MANAGEMENT; CASTING: ANDREA DEANESI; PRODUCTION: ANDREA BLOOD; STYLING ASSISTANT: ANNA CADEDDU; LIGHTING ASSISTANT: IGNAZIO NANO
BRIDE AND BLOOM Embroidery dragonfly dress appliquéd with flowers in organza lace and mink, by Fendi Haute Fourrure. Opposite page: Hand-painted jacquard dress with embroidered mink; pointed calfskin heels, both by Fendi Haute Fourrure
FENDI | TATLER FOCUS
STYLE |
FASHION
Mindful Maker Amiable and altruistic, Pearly Wong is the girl next door making a splash overseas with her sustainable designs and philanthropic partnerships, affirms Samantha Lim
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n true pearly wong fashion, the intrinsic ingredients are everpresent: loose-fitting fabrics, fluid shapes, a high-energy soundtrack with a thumping bass, and an unconventional catwalk that forces straightfaced models to make sharp, sudden turns, tracing geometric shapes in their stead and showing off the garments from every advantageous angle. The Pearly Wong Sze
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Women of Hope collection is, however, Wong’s maiden collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Exhibiting exceptional empathy, Wong and her team took refugee artisans from Myanmar and Pakistan under their wing, providing the displaced persons with vocational training plus a platform to vend their products. Linguistic barriers occasionally left both parties speechless, but visuals would often save the day. malaysia tatler . october 2017
PHOTOGRAPHY: SHAFFIQ FARHAN
MOTIVE IN MOTION The Pearly Wong Sze Women of Hope Fashion Show at Black Box, Publika zoomed in on the fate of political refugees in today’s current state of international affairs
“The average person who wants to make a difference can start supporting local designers instead of buying fast fashion” “My team and I use samples or pictures to illustrate the results we are aiming for,” elucidates Wong. “Thankfully, sewing is a very visual process, so we can communicate by way of observation and repetition.” Conducive to our climate and far from a strain on one’s purse strings, the outcome is a very wearable collection tailored for the Malaysian market. “Five years ago when I was just starting out, I was all about avant garde show pieces that the market wasn’t really ready for,” says the designer in retrospect. Nevertheless, certain facets remain a constant: “The draping in this collection is pretty much part of the Pearly Wong design DNA,” she maintains. When probed to reminisce on even earlier memories, Wong reveals, “The childhood experience that predestined my becoming a fashion designer was hanging around my parents’ office.” Her family ran a children’s clothing label called Biz:Kid, which franchised the likes of Mickey Mouse and Tom and Jerry labels, plus provided her with an expedient firsthand look at the behind-the-scenes of fashion. “As the only kid in the office, I was expected to aid the
THE 3 B’S
Barneys, Bergdorf Goodman and Bloomingdale’s were Pearly Wong’s go-tos for designer inspiration
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IN CAHOOTS WITH CORUM The Swiss manufacturer of luxury watches was the cornerstone for the Sze Women of Hope cause; Pearly Wong is seen wearing the Corum Bubble Death Star Automatic in the portrait above
decision-making process—like a test subject!” she says with mirth. Needless to say, Wong has long grown accustomed to making the call and passing judgement on design, and admirably chooses to advocate just causes via her projects. Sustainability has been a core concern of her company even prior to founding the Sze Women of Hope non-profit. Though not an overnight process, Wong asserts that it is possible to lessen the damage done by the fashion industry, which is unfortunately and undeniably, a detrimental source of textile waste and overflow. Can mindfulness truly turn the tables? She tells us: “The idea is for everyone to be aware of the consequences and to start to make a shift. The average person who wants to make a difference can start supporting local designers instead of buying fast fashion.” Learn more about Sze Women of Hope on szewomenofhope. wordpress.com.
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STYLE | ACCESSORIES
CLOSER LOOK
Introduced in 2014, the RM 037 Ladies’ collection places female desiderata at the forefront
Artful Alliance
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either hapless damsel in distress nor girl next door, Margot Robbie confounds easy characterisation on the silver screen. She first caught the eye of the public as ‘the woman of Wall Street,’ making a searing impression in a sizzling scene with Leonardo DiCaprio grovelling at her stilettoed heels. Boosted by the popularity of Martin Scorsese’s black comedy, the bold lass has gone on to snare lead roles in a slew of Hollywood blockbusters from Harley Quinn in David Ayer’s Suicide Squad to Jane in David Yates’ The Legend of Tarzan. And 2018 promises to be a right royal time for Robbie, who will be crowned Queen Elizabeth in Josie Rourke’s Mary Queen of Scots. Two touchstones in creative professions, Richard Mille and Margot Robbie are presently putting their heads and their hearts together
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to drive proceeds from their partnership to Youngcare, a non-profit organisation that strives to shoulder the burden of high-care needs among young Australians. It is for such reasons that the Swiss watch brand forms selective partnerships with role models from a myriad of professions. Robbie joins the ranks of other honourable ambassadors including professional golfers Cristie Kerr and Diana Luna, dressage rider Jessica von BredowWerndl, and Malaysia’s own Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh—strong female personalities making waves in this age and time. Empathetic towards the modern woman’s wants, Richard Mille has built a women’s collection that is far from fragile or froufrou. A marvel of a ladies automatic, the RM 037 modelled by Robbie sees a fast-rotating barrel, as well as cutting-edge gear teeth and flat head movement screws in grade 5 titanium— mechanical merit for any watch enthusiast. malaysia tatler . october 2017
IMAGES: RICHARD MILLE
The sunny Australian actress Margot Robbie is the new face of Richard Mille, and it’s a beauteous visage. Samantha Lim sheds light on the film and television personality
“The watch we are working on embodies Richard Mille’s vision of horology; it’s beautiful, unique and modern. I can’t wait for everyone to see it”
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CLASSY ‘SHEILA’ Margot Robbie rocking the RM 037 in black ceramic and 18K rose gold automatic
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STYLE | FASHION
ANYTHING GOES Designers have further blurred the boundaries of what’s au courant with the new season’s runway revelations. Whether it’s menswear-inspired insouciance, vibrant colours worn head to toe, or fabulous feathers, frills and fur, diversity defines what we’ll be wearing this fall and winter. Sharon Lim reports from the shows Photography JASON LLOYD-EVANS
NEW YORK
C A LV I N K L E I N In his debut collection for the American house, creative director Raf Simons pays homage to the 'Calvin clean' aesthetic founder Calvin Klein shaped in the 1980s. Simons sent out a collection of minimalist silhouettes with bold touches and a sporty edge that is the hallmark of modern American style. The updates? Colour-blocking, such as in the blue shirt and ruby red trousers that opened the show; sexy winged shoes with see-through fronts; and riffs on Americana such as skinny jeans, the 'majorette' fringed skirt and the 'debutante' tulle prom dress.
NEW YORK
MARC JACOBS Inspired by the Netflix documentary series Hip-Hop Evolution, Marc Jacobs offered a sophisticated spin on the early hip-hop scene of the ’70s. Thick, patterned knits, extra-wide trousers, and loads of corduroy and fur (both real and faux) were anchored in a warm palette of browns. Big bubble caps by Stephen Jones and fabulously fake 'gold' chain necklaces pulled together Jacobs’ “dressed-up casual sportswear” collection named Respect—a reference to black pride and quite possibly Aretha Franklin.
MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION Of the major fashion designers today, you can count on Michael Kors for a certain kind of sexy, jet-set glamazon. From plussized model Ashley Graham to Bella Hadid (right), the Kors woman is strong, confident and unabashedly feminine. Wrap skirts showing a hint of leg with every stride were balanced with jackets sporting rounded shoulders and cocooning proportions. Glamour came in the form of a slouchy wrap dress cinched with a trailing belt, anchored by peeptoed slingbacks with architectural conical heels.
NEW YORK
RALPH LAUREN Nomadic goddesses reigned in Ralph Lauren’s desert-themed vision for fall/winter 2017. The maison’s signature preppie-gypset aesthetic was sprinkled with a touch of Arabian Nights in silk loungewear layered over rolled-up jeans, a toga gown cinched with a leather belt, and oversized earrings and worn-gold necklaces. Talk about making a dramatic exit: some gowns were plain in front with an entirely different backstory, as scoop necklines behind framed dramatic bejewelled necklaces.
LONDON
BURBERRY The sculptor Henry Moore was born in Castleford, Yorkshire, the same place Burberry began producing many of its iconic designs in the 1880s. Looking to Moore for inspiration, creative director Christopher Bailey has created a second 'see-now, buy-now' collection that eschews his usual bright colours for black, white, grey and a faded, workwear blue, said to be the hues of Moore’s daily wardrobe. The Burberry trench was softened and shrugged on over short shirt dresses with an asymmetric placket. And an intricate embellished macramé capelet— Burberry produced capes in the 1880s—lent a sculptural finish to a sheer white lace dress.
MILAN
FENDI Furs aside, Fendi’s grown-up 'forever' pieces are collectible in their own right. While there’s no one signature Fendi silhouette, the A-line comes close. This season, it’s a soft, midcalf A-line skirt, its semi-sheer sexiness balanced by feminine tailoring in menswear fabrics—such as a suit with a boxy doublelayer jacket, and a curvy, double-breasted coat with mink cuffs over a longer skirt. Red was a standout in both slinky sheer dresses and a fabulous red coat with pin-tucked gathers at the waist—and also as a musthave accent, as in the sealing-wax-red boots, some over the knee, which anchored all the looks. As for the bags, the single F logo appeared on metal closures, while the double F was a graphic print on handbags.
PRADA
MILAN
You can see why Miuccia Prada is a key influence for Gucci’s Alessandro Michele. But where he is all giddy maximalism, she is all about restrained excess. For fall, she plumbs the late ’60s and early ’70s, a favourite era, with crochet scarves and Baker Boy hats, cosy knit turtlenecks and coats—lots of big coats, in fact, in patchwork leather and snakeskin, and often in contrasting textures like tweed and fur. Then there was a detour through the ’50s in the tight red cocktail dress Lindsey Wixson wore and the ’20s in the feathers and crystal fringing on hemlines. Schizophrenic? No. Just classic Miuccia Prada.
S A LV AT O R E FERRAGAMO For his second collection, creative director Fulvio Rigoni wanted to create “dynamic, sensual, luxe, comfortable” clothes. Inspired by a Serge Lutens TV campaign for Jun Ropé in the ’70s, he centred his collection on a long, lean silhouette that was defined by the first look: a nipped-waist leather blazer in dove grey leather over a knit turtleneck and a slim knee-length skirt. Svelte dresses, some in animal prints, highwaisted wrap skirts and soft separates were cut for slinky movement, with a soupçon of sportif in cropped puffer jackets and stirrup pants. Accessories offered punches of colour, from the violet crocodile clutch to the platform-soled, stacked-heel booties by the brand’s design director for women’s footwear, Paul Andrew.
MILAN
TOD'S In the wake of creative director Alessandra Facchinetti’s departure in 2016, the Italian house’s design team chose to focus on outerwear—an apt decision, considering that Tod’s is a leather house. There were classic trenches in supple nappa, cinched with a black obi or sporting a storm flap in caramel leather with white piping, a classic Tod’s colour combo. Leather was also worked into whisper-weight suppleness for a paper leather blouson shirt and matching full skirt, and exotics were showcased in a black crocodile jacket. The showstopper: a puffer moto jacket that was just this side of oversized. As for the accessories, a Sella handbag (above) in delicious shades of chocolate, and lace-up taupe suede boots (below) with high stacked heels were both commercial and covetable.
VERSACE
MILAN
Donatella Versace’s glamazon ditched her signature seductive looks for a sporty, streetwear-influenced wardrobe that recalled the best of Versace’s 1990s diffusion line, Versus. Quilted down jackets and oversized parkas were teamed with body-con athletic tops, wispy chiffon double-layered skirts and vibrant knits, often embellished. The first look set the tone. Peeking out from under the hem of the short, black double-breasted coatdress (worn over a white shirt) was a sheer black slip, the word equality embroidered on it in block capitals. This was luxe streetwear with a message, spelled out on beanie hats, scarves and T-shirts: LOYALTY, COURAGE, POWER.
PARIS
BALENCIAGA Creative director Demna Gvasalia is synonymous with his streetbased cult label, Vetements. His off-kilter aesthetic, rooted in subverting notions of luxury and chic, sees him continuing to play with proportions and materials for the high fashion house. Case in point: the asymmetrically fastened coats that opened the show. They actually unbutton into normal coats with extra volume on one side, a nod to Cristóbal Balenciaga’s signature tailoring in the 1950s. Elsewhere, there were impeccably cut pencil skirts made from car mats, chic clutch bags fashioned from car wing mirrors, and statement earrings repurposed from diamante belt buckles. But lest it all became too 'street,' ladylike heels and good ol’ leopard print kept things classic.
PARIS
CHRISTIAN DIOR Creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri’s “We Should All Be Feminists” slogan T-shirt in her debut readyto-wear collection for Christian Dior last October was a defining fashion moment for the house. Post-US presidential election, her follow-up collection followed through on the theme of woman power. Blue— inspired by a navy belted skirt suit circa 1951—referenced the colour of World War II women’s and factory worker uniforms, and appeared in roomy denim trouser suits, glittery maxi dresses, and embellished tulle skirts. Then there was a ruffled babyblue gown worn under a backwards jacket that was a throwback to Celine Dion’s trouser suit at the 1999 Oscars. All were capped with black leather berets by milliner Stephen Jones.
PARIS
HERMÈS In a departure from her usual discreet, monochromatic aesthetic, creative director Nadège Vanhee-Cybulski took the plunge into a retro-tinged collection with an autumnal colour palette. Shades of caramel, teal, taupe and burgundy lent a chic ’70s vibe to pieces inspired by Hermès’ heritage, such as high-waisted dresses that referenced leather aprons, worn over ribbed turtlenecks for a sportif look. Silk scarves were used as a canvas for some psychedelic colour clashing, and floaty dresses were stamped with a handpainted paisley motif design. The Hermès tomboy strode out confidently in a patchwork charcoal parka with teal fur trim, mannish trousers and clompy platform boots, taking the house synonymous with timeless, luxurious chic in a youthful new direction.
MIU MIU Miuccia Prada’s brand of kooky glamour for Miu Miu is as distinctive as it seems challenging to wear. The truth is, every look has statement pieces galore that are surprisingly wearable— assuming you’re not afraid to stand out. This fall, happy hues and decadent faux furs ensure a dramatic entrance (and exit!). Oversized coats (with oversized collars), flat fur boots, lashings of rhinestones and crystals pulled together Miu Miu signatures: printed tunics and flared trousers, knit sweaters, pretty skirts and lingerie slips—as well as the wacky oversized sunglasses that become cult eyewear items every season.
PARIS
LOUIS VUITTON While the spirit of travel is often cited as a key philosophy behind Louis Vuitton, there is more than meets the eye in this fall’s sportswear-centric collection by Nicolas Ghesquière. Sure, there were super-luxe accents like denim that was actually wool treated to look like faded blue jeans, fur accents on short-sleeved jackets, and leather—a key material—sleek in a black coat or crackled to look worn and old. At the heart of the collection were forever pieces that were anything but boring: a pantsuit with a zip-up jacket in bright blue and white contrast trim; knee-length slip dresses worked with pleats, lace insets, sheer panels; a patterned sweater that managed to be off-kilter yet chic.
PARIS
CHANEL Karl Lagerfeld has done futuristic for Chanel before, most recently in 2016, but sending Coco’s house into space was a first. Glittery, low-heeled lunar boots, some with black toecaps, anchored the “Chanel space station collection” that infused a Space: 1999 vibe into metallic tweed tunics and silver padded stoles, silver leather coats trimmed with fur, and Lurex sweaters and midi skirts. Eveningwear was taken to the final frontier by constellations of Chanel pearls embroidered onto dresses, and gowns with a wacky astronaut print were oddly compelling. As for the bags, slouchy Gabrielle handbags (top left), iridescent structured lady bags and cute rocket-shaped purses are set to take off.
STYLE | BEAUTY
More Than Skin Deep Elizabeth Soong travels to Amanemu in Nagoya, Japan to discover what Shiseido has unearthed to reawaken skin’s life-renewing force, and the answer lies in its latest Future Solution LX
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It was during the global media launch at the serene, luxurious Amanemu resort in Nagoya that we discovered the powerful, new ingredient which gives renewed life to Shiseido’s most premium line of skincare. We were also introduced to Dr Eriko Kawai, the research scientist responsible for the discovery of the anti-ageing ingredient— SkingenecellEnmei. Kawai revealed that it has taken them eight years to work on the formulation of this new ingredient, and that her work on SkingenecellEnmei started even before the Future Solution LX was launched in 2009. Their research on plant longevity has brought Kawai and her team’s attention to the healing powers of the Enmei herb, which is drunk as tea and used in traditional Chinese medicine; plus it has energising properties and is said to calm the body as well. During the group interview with Kawai, a pot of this humble-looking plant sat on the table for us to take a closer look, as we were served hot Enmei tea. “In old Chinese pharmacology books, this herb is mentioned as having healing properties and was used as a drug,” says Kawai. “We researched thousands of plants but the Enmei has been shown to have the highest efficacy among them. Also, according to Japanese legend, Kobo Daishi, a Buddhist monk who is also known as Kukai, offered a sick traveller the extract of Enmei herb, which helped this person to recover. It is because of this discovery, that we have started to pay attention to the efficacy of this herb.”
IMAGES: SHISEIDO; ISTOCK
hen it comes to physical appearance, there’s no denying that looking good plays a big part in how we feel about ourselves. Yes, we feel more self-confident and attractive, naturally, but can we only depend on outer beauty, for us to feel this way all the time? As the saying goes, beauty (eventually) fades, but for motivational expert Dr Carol Morgan, I prefer how she spun it positively as, ‘beauty changes.’ Our skin undergoes change with each passing decade—during our twenties, skin is firm, resilient and smooth (provided you use sunblock, eat right and take proper care of yourself); when we hit the 30s, the first real signs of ageing such as crow’s feet and frown lines start to show as the skin’s natural process of exfoliation slows down while collagen and elastin fibres decrease; by 40s, skin imperfections such as freckles, age spots and discolouration begin to occur; beyond 50s, significant signs of ageing occur, as a result of hormonal changes and old age. Looking at the beauty timeline above, I’m sure we can all agree that skincare is a constant battle against time, the elements, and to some extent, heredity. Renowned Japanese brand Shiseido is a little more far-sighted than that—with its Future Solution LX range, it is not only about taking care of the skin for now, but also stimulates its innate ability to improve itself so that with time, skin gets better and better, moving forward into the future.
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STYLE | BEAUTY
Dr Eriko Kawai
Collected from Mount Koya where the Kukai legend originated, Shiseido carefully cultivated and nurtured the Enmei herb in the lab, which is then later extracted and paired with its proprietary Skingenecell 1P and vitamin C Ethyl II to create the SkingenecellEnmei, the key ingredient in the reformulated Future Solution LX range. Marketed to women aged 35 and above, Kawai says, “SkingenecellEnmei promotes the presence of the longevity gene Sirtuin 1, which brings out the skin’s own healing power and enhances regeneration, while also suppressing the production of Serpin b3, a skinageing protein. As a result, your skin’s longevity gene and immune system is enhanced; subdermal damage to the skin is lessened; and it becomes firmer and more radiant from within.” Shiseido also incorporated three other Japanese botanical ingredients to further reinforce the regenerative power of SkingenecellEnmei: Uji green tea extract prevents cellular damage from UV rays by providing antioxidation effects; Hokkaido angelica root extract reinforces the epidermis by promoting ATP production—ATP is a source of energy in epidermal cells; while sakura leaf extract taken from the leaves of Oshima cherry blossoms, reinforces the dermis by suppressing elastin breakdown. Designed to provide a holistic, sensorial experience, the Future Solution LX fully engages the senses of the user, even before the skincare experience begins. From the moment of unwrapping the packaging that unfolds like a furoshiki, a Japanese tradition of wrapping an important gift with fabric, you are greeted
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Their research on plant longevity has brought the team’s attention to the healing powers of the Enmei herb malaysia tatler . october 2017
FIVE STEPS TO GREAT SKIN Future Solution LX works to actively nurture skin, plus make it more resilient and radiant as the SkingenecellEnmei continuous to defend and regenerate the skin
EXTRA RICH CLEANSING FOAM Enveloping skin in a rich, luxurious lather, the cleanser gently lifts away impurities while prepping skin to receive the full benefits of the softening lotion. CONCENTRATED BALANCING SOFTENER Use a cotton pad and prepare to renew skin’s vitalising forces, thanks to Shiseido’s exclusive 4MSK and TMG ingredients, which suppress melanin generation and eliminates excess surface cells, respectively.
PEACEFUL RETREAT The Amanemu resort, which overlooks the calm waters of Ago Bay, was where the Shiseido global media launch took place; the Spa where I had the Yutaka facial is designed around a large onsen, and features two private onsen pavilions, a watsu pool and four treatment suites
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TOTAL PROTECTIVE CREAM / EMULSION (SPF20 PA++++) This day moisturiser contains premium Sansho extract which encourages skin’s protective Daytime Defense Gene to thrive, giving you protection against UV rays, dryness and oxidation. TOTAL REGENERATING CREAM This night cream contains the highest amount of SkingenecellEnmei Complex and Burnet Extract that help optimise the skin’s Nighttime Defense Gene, which repairs cellular damage and optimises skin’s own age-resisting functions. EYE & LIP CONTOUR REGENERATING CREAM Don’t forget about these delicate areas which need some tender-loving care too, as wrinkles and lines tend to form around these parts. Use morning and night to provide UV protection, diminish dark circles and plump up the lines.
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STYLE | BEAUTY
Shiseido’s concept of living, energetic beauty is where it harnesses nature’s vital forces and merges it with technology TH HE YUTAKA RITUAL
with Shiseido’s camellia ellia logo and the appealing shimmer and deluxe feel of the black-and-gold container. Then, luxuriate in the smooth silky texture and fragrance of the product, which is infused with the delicate notes of cherry blossom, plum blossom and Japanese rose. These moments of opening, holding, even closing which uses the senses of touch, smell and sight, all accentuates the sensual richness of the Future Solution LX experience. Of course, any beauty ritual must begin with a clean slate, so to speak. Saeko Suzuki, Shiseido’s director of skincare product development emphasises that skin must be cleansed before applying the skincare. “The first thing Japanese women do is to thoroughly cleanse their face with water, before applying the essence or cream. Otherwise, the moisturiser won’t be as effective as it’s supposed to. This is one of the cardinal rules of beauty.”
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Taaking it a step further, tthe skincare ritual is complemented with a signature facial called the Future Solution LX Yutaka treatment. It’s a complete sensory experience with a new dimension added to thhe treatment—sound. The aural repertoire of the Yutaka Omottenashi Sound, which includes natural ssounds recorded at Mount Koya Ko ya fl owss w ow Koya, flows with the rhythm of the massage therapist’s arm movements. New tools have also been added to the treatment: the Yutaka Massager and Yutaka Stone, which are made of Imari Nabeshima porcelain. Both contraptions are heated and the former is massaged over the face, neck, décolleté and upper arms during the facial while the stone is placed on top of the belly button to warm the body. What I loved about the facial, apart from the light floral fragrance of the products and how they facilitated the smooth, deft strokes of the therapist, was the firm fingerpoint touches on the pressure points which relaxed me completely. I especially enjoyed the massage using the Yutaka tools; the therapist glided the two porcelain massagers over my skin in firm, circling strokes, lulling me to sleep. If you ask me, one hour is not enough for this decadent treat. And my skin afterwards? It was radiant and touchably smooth. The Yutaka facial is available at selected Shiseido counters.
SO SOOTHES THE SOUL From left: The Yutaka Massager and Yutaka Stone enable the feeling of wellbeing during the facial treatment; we visited the Ise Shrine to better understand and appreciate the source of inspiration for Shiseido Future Solution LX
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LIFE-GIVING FORCE
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he japanese have long been captivated by the invisible but obvious power that exists in natural creation. And, this spiritual connection creates a sense of caring and respect towards nature. The Shiseido Future Solution LX is based on the concept of living, energetic beauty which harnesses nature’s vital forces and merges it with technology.
What made you fall in love with the Japanese culture? I first became fascinated with Japan while I was in university. After graduating, I became a professor and started writing books, both about the traditional aspects of Japan as well as contemporary Japan. I’ve been here a little over 30 years, so Japan is really my adopted home, and I’d like to give back what I feel the culture, the country, and the people have given to me. Do you see something in common between all these Japanese beauty brands? I have to admit, beauty is not a world that I’ve really been a part of. I know it mainly because of my wife, and she’s like many Japanese— she takes really good care of herself, washing very carefully every night, and I see what she uses, so I noticed the Japanese brands. Shiseido, of course, is one of them. So I guess the commonality I see is a certain kind of sophistication that they try to convey in the imagery and the packaging—something that’s soothing, subtle and sophisticated.
Do you think it comes from their roots of embracing nature? I think it’s all connected with that; I think it’s also connected to the idea of what it means to be beautiful. What is beauty? And that beauty, it has to be innate. Beauty is not something that you stick on your face, it’s something that comes from inside you. If you’re not healthy, you’re not taking care of yourself, not getting good rest, for instance, then you’ll never really be beautiful, so I feel that’s very connected. Have you tried Shiseido products yourself and which one is your favourite? Truth is, I haven’t, but I will say, I’m really impressed by what I’ve seen with the Future Solution LX. My wife started to use it when I got involved with this project. She found the packaging beautiful, and said to me, the next morning she woke up, ‘This stuff really is good!’ She looks young, she has good skin, she takes care of it, all the time, but she thought it was great. And she’s a very picky person, so this is probably very good, from her point of view.
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Azby Brown, a New Orleans native is an architect, artist and author living in Japan. Well-versed on the subject, he was invited by Shiseido to give us a rudimentary lesson on Shinto and Buddhism; we were fortunate to visit the Ise Shrine where we observed the Shinto tradition in practice. We find out what his thoughts are on beauty and how to lead a productive, happy life.
Over the years how has Japanese philosophy changed your personal life? I find I’ve become a lot more patient, and this started with that temple carpenter [whom he apprenticed for], where I had to wait three days before he would meet me. I went every day and waited outside, and then he finally talked to me, and I feel I’ve become very patient, and that is part of being comfortable, having a kind of inner peace, and not being so worried. With the young people coming out into the world, what advice can you give them? I would like to advise them not to be in such a hurry. And I see that with my own son; he’s 21, he thinks he has to be successful immediately, whereas I know life just goes on and on, therefore people should take their time. I also would advise young people to trust others; even though we see lots of bad things happening, the only good things happen is when we trust people and establish that understanding and sharing. So that will be the two big ones—not hurry and to trust.
QUIET CONFIDENCE If there’s any lesson that Azby Brown has learned from his Japanese master, it is to be patient
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BEAUTY | STYLE
A Remedy For Sensitivity Lancôme’s all-new Advanced Génifique Sensitive is set to be your next must-have to treat bad skin within a month, writes Kathlyn D’Souza
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e all have been there, where we have perfect skin one day and it all goes to shambles the next morning when we wake up. Itchiness, redness, irritation— they all happen to us at one point or another. The weather, travelling schedules, hormones, stress and pollution can all add and blow up at any given time. Or sometimes, you’re just born with sensitive skin, and we can imagine how painstaking it must be to scour through drugstores and beauty brands just to get your hands on an immediately-effective product that would soothe and comfort your distressed skin. Well take it from us, consider Lancôme’s latest Advanced Génifique Sensitive to
well as pure self-activated vitamin E mixed with a soothing base rich in probiotic extract (Centella Asiatica) to instantly calm stressed skin and protect against environmental aggressors. Results can be seen immediately over one night, with stinging and tight sensations being reduced by up to 91 per cent and skin feeling completely soothed up to 88 per cent in only 30 days. Other benefits include a youthful radiance plus soothing from itchiness, tingling, burning and roughness. It is recommended that you use the serum for a month, two to three times a year by integrating it into your nighttime ritual. It is also formulated without parabens, sulfates and phthalates, which we all know
This one-month SOS formula is what you need to improve your skin’s condition be part of your one and only essential first aid kit. We all know that bad skin can be fixed through commitment, and we hope that the next time you’re about to commit to something, it better be this dual concentrate antioxidant serum to look after your skin. While there are many other beauty products out there claiming to rescue your skin, this one-month SOS formula is what you need to improve your skin’s condition, and you will be all set for the rest of the year. Here’s what you need to know about Lancôme’s latest breakthrough in beauty and technology. With an enveloping, ‘liquid plaster’ texture, the refreshing and soothing serum is boosted with pure ferulic acid as
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are responsible for nasty skin repercussions in the first place. Apart from rescuing your skin, the serum also strengthens it against free radicals induced by UV rays, infrared radiation and pollution (which may lead to visible signs of accelerated skin ageing) and improves the look of skin for a healthierlooking complexion. In clinical self-assessments, 90 per cent of participants agreed that skin was comforted instantly, and it was tested to provide a significant protective effect against fine pollutants. So to all you ladies who have been painstakingly dealing with sensitive skin for a while, if not your whole life, you can breathe easy and forget bad skin days from now on.
HOW TO USE
To activate for first use, push and twist the black cap clockwise to release the blue concentrate into the base concentrate. Shake until the two concentrates are evenly mixed. Unscrew and replace the black cap with the dropper to use the product. Use when experiencing bad skin days or when your skin needs it most, every night for a month— shake the bottle gently prior to use.
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BEAUTY | STYLE
Of Regeneration and Relaxation Decorté’s latest technology and discovery marks your cue to get your hands on their newly enhanced AQ, writes Kathlyn D’Souza
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here is a deepseated awareness that stress is directly linked to the state of your skin. And as far as skincare goes, it is certainly more effective when its users aren’t too frazzled. With that understanding and capability to derive solutions, Decorté overhauls its AQ (Absolute Quality) skincare range, after nearly three decades of transforming the skin via the ingenious integration of physical and mental relaxation. Its 27th year marks a year in maturation, in terms of its presence in the beauty industry; but this also means that it takes a step further where AQ is concerned. Focusing more on the mind, which in turn leads to ‘skin responsiveness’, the improved AQ range enhances the regenerative capabilities of skin— where scents and textures awaken an emotion that’s responsible for boosting skin radiance. The AQ range acts as a trigger, banishing excessive internal and external stressors to give way to a sense of tranquillity so that your skin can be renewed and injected with new life, that is teeming with
radiance and vitality. Simply put, AQ’s new beauty formula is truly all about the fusion of regeneration as well as relaxation, merchandise and mindfulness. The recipe is a rich, unique blend of white mucuna, white birch sap and the night-blooming cereus, known to be one of the most potent creatine transporters—responsible for utilising healing signals emitted by the nerves—as well as plays a crucial role in the generation of energy within and for the cells. Having been used in ancient times as a herbal remedy to improve circulation, it is also renowned for its brightening effects. The rare sap of the white birch tree on the other hand is rich in natural minerals and amino acids, a fundamental ingredient for AQ. Finally, the entire range comes together with a soothing and hypnotising fragrance that is the night-blooming cereus, making your skincare regime and ritual a wholly sensorial experience. So sit back, relax and let AQ take care of you. Consider it a two-inone investment, for both your skin and your mind.
AQ acts as a trigger, banishing excessive internal and external stress to give way to a sense of tranquillity For more information on the new Decorté AQ range, visit cosmedecorte.com.my malaysia tatler . october 2017
The New AQ Skincare Lineup BASIC CARE Step 1: Cleansing Cleansing Cream and Washing Cream Removes makeup and sebum while softening and moisturising skin. Step 2: Softening Emulsion / Emulsion ER Rich and smooth formula for a reawakened, soft, supple, refined and radiant skin. Step 3: Balancing Lotion / Lotion ER or Toning Lotion Highly concentrated white birch water for resilient, hydrated as well as clear and translucent skin while smoothing pores and removing excess sebum. Step 4: Moisturising A night cream to firm and tone skin for enhanced density.
Personal Care MASSAGE CREAM A night cream to rebuild plus firm up skin. MOISTURE LIFT MASK A peel-off mask that removes dead skin cells and dirt for instantly radiant and firm skin. OIL INFUSION Containing highly concentrated white mucuna extract, the oil enhances the health and condition of skin—making dry and dull skin revitalised. BOTANICAL PURE OIL This 100 per cent plant-based essence leaves skin bright, and tones to prevent dryness or irritation while maintaining moisture as well as oil balance.
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STYLE | WATCHES
CINEMATIC MER IT Jaeger-LeCoultre presents Stephen Frears, masterful maker of moving biopics, with the 2017 Glory to the Filmmaker Award
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ome horologists seek to set new records in racing while others ascend to new heights via aviation, but Jaeger-LeCoultre takes pride in presiding over prestigious film festivals. The luxury watch company has long linked arms with luminaries in The Seventh Art and bestowed filmmakers with the Glory to the Filmmaker Award for eleven uninterrupted years. English director Stephen Frears, whose repertoire includes My Beautiful Laundrette (1985), Dangerous Liasons (1988), High Fidelity (2000) and The Queen (2006), has been deigned 2017’s awardee—just in time for the world premiere of Victoria & Abdul, a biopic detailing the unlikely friendship fostered between Queen Victoria and her personal attendant Abdul Karim, where Judi Dench stars as Her Highness while Ali Fazal assumes the role of Abdul. Being awarded the Glory to the Filmmaker Award is yet another feather in the 76-year-old director’s already well-adorned cap.
Each year’s recognised filmmaker receives an engraved award plaque and a Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso watch 1 54
GLORY TO THE FILMMAKER Past recipients of the award include Sylvester Stallone (2009), Al Pacino (2011), Spike Lee (2012), James Franco (2014) and other visionaries
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D E N R U T Y L N A I R NEW NA E G A SEX
F1 SPECIALTY
Outfitted with oversized pushers, a carbon fibre dial with a tachymeter and a sporty rubber strap with tyre imprints, the EDOX Chronorally Sauber F1 Team Limited Edition was developed just in time for this year’s Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix.
Though founded in 1874, Piaget SA only started turning out timepieces like clockwork in 1957, hence the maison’s 60th anniversary of its Altiplano watch. Synonymous with slender frames, the brand has a large, loyal female following, which is already showing great zeal for the brand’s new anniversary edition. Besides the sunburst dial in signature Piaget blue and a bezel set with 78 brilliant-cut diamonds, the 18K white gold watch boasts of a cutting-edge, ultra-thin 430P (2.1mm) thick manualwinding movement, which proves that compact can still be plenty.
UP TO SPEED Themed ‘A Road to Luxurious Sensation,’ the Bell & Ross unveiling of the longanticipated BR-X1 RS17 collection (including the BR 03-94 RS17, BR-X1 RS17 Skeleton Chronograph and BR-X1 RS17 Tourbillon Chronograph) in Bangkok, sealed Bell & Ross’s position as the official watch partner of the Renault Sport Formula One Team at the recent races. What sets the collection apart from its predecessors? Its redesigned fibre and resin for enhanced functionality, components fashioned from racing tyres, and parts dyed in the signature shade of ‘Renault yellow’ to match the single-seater sports car.
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STYLE | WATCHES
Pride and Joy
ONLY PATEK PHILIPPE FOR HIM Datuk Jerry Chan knows the brand inside and out and we were told he could even give the best watch salesman in Patek Philippe a run for his money
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PORTRAIT: SHAFFIQ FARHAN; WATCHES: PATEK PHILIPPE
For businessman Datuk Jerry Chan, no other brand can compare to Patek Philippe when it comes to the best of Swiss watchmaking. Lily Ong learns why the brand earned his passion and loyalty
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hen we first met Datuk Jerry Chan, he was reserved, almost bashful. Having flown in from Penang for the day just for this interview, the managing director of Asas Dunia Bhd ordinarily keeps a low profile from the media. He used to only agree to interviews in the past when he served as the chairman of REHDA Penang. We were honoured that he had agreed, for the first time, to talk to Malaysia Tatler about his love for watches— particularly those from Patek Philippe.
What goes through your mind when you buy a watch? If I choose to buy a watch, I would have thought through the entire process, from doing research to the moment I buy it. To me, buying watches is like making a business decision. I know some people see buying watches as an emotional decision, but for me it is a calculated and definite one. Do you have a mental checklist that you tick off when you shop for a watch? First of all, remind yourself that you cannot buy everything. We naturally put value on things that we consciously choose to buy, not things we buy on impulse. You need to weigh your options and decide whether what you want is worth having in your life or not. I see you are wearing Patek Philippe watch and cuffs. Yes, I have a travel bag from Patek Philippe too. Why does Patek Philippe appeal to you so greatly? Patek Philippe has a long, abiding history and through the Sterns’ leadership, the brand is excellent and thriving. Patek Philippe represents what luxury watchmaking is: precision, accuracy, engineering and innovation. That said, every single timepiece has such superb finishing and most importantly, they never go overboard in any component.
In time, I could see Datuk Jerry’s reticence start to melt away as we chatted about haute horlogerie. The Cortina Watch Malaysia team, who have been servicing Datuk Jerry for Patek Philippe throughout the years as a retailer, informed me that he has an archive of catalogues of every Patek Philippe collection released throughout the years. At some points during our interview, in his passion to explain his watches to me, he even addressed the brand as ‘we’, signifying how he has come to see himself and the brand as the same entity. Read on to discover how and why he thinks no other brand can compare to Patek Philippe in his eyes.
GO FOR BOLD Datuk Jerry collects watches that are classic yet unconventional in design at the same time. His favourites? Those from Patek Philippe, of course
Do you mean in terms of watch designs? Patek has a classicism that holds true until today. Collectors still buy Patek Philippe like Calatravas from the 1940s to the 1960s.That’s the beauty of the brand. What about mechanisms? What do you gravitate to? I like them all, but I enjoy chronographs the most. What about minute repeaters? Minute repeaters are fascinating but you have to be discerning. A good minute repeater should be music to the ears—in tone quality, spacing, richness of sound, the rhythm and the interval quality between strikes. Patek Philippe does these elements very well, you can tell once you hear its sounds.
is keeping their traditions alive in craftsmanship like enamel, guilloche and more. If you are able to get your hands on a piece from the rare handcrafts collection, consider yourself very fortunate as these watches normally sell out.
What Patek Philippe watch would you recommend an interested collector to look at if they want to upgrade their collection? Well, the brand’s Nautilus collection is incredibly popular and in high demand. But, if you want my advice, I say choose a watch that is considered by purists to be ‘different’. These watches will spark debates and in my experience, become a thorough success after! For the more discerning buyers, go for the rare handcrafted pieces. Many people don’t understand how Patek Philippe
Share some tips on caring for your watch collection to make them last. Make sure that your watches are wound once a month. I hike outdoors but I never wear my watches outside. I am very particular when it comes to keeping my watches in good condition; I do things like taking my ring off before I wear my watch so I won’t scratch it. I also make it a point to schedule for regular service and shine. You see, Patek Philippe watches are already timeless; when in tip-top condition, the pieces look brand new.
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RUSSIAN HAT-TRICK Zabivaka (second from left), the official mascot for the 2018 Fifa World Cup Russia, at the opening of the new Hublot boutique in Moscow, along with (from left) Fifa chief commercial officer Philippe Le Floc’h, Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe and football legend Pelé
Planet Football
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ootball is a universal sport with immense mass appeal. According to the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, or more popularly known as Fifa, the 2014 World Cup was viewed by 3.2 billion viewers, of which one billion watched the final between Argentina and eventual champions Germany. Its reach is definitely very attractive from a sponsor’s
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perspective, but many luxury marques believe that football is too mass a sport compared to tennis, sailing or golf. Hublot thinks differently. It is totally in love with the beautiful game—obsessed, if you will. For one, it will be the official timekeeper of the Fifa World Cup for the third time running, come 2018. The watchmaker also sponsors several other competitions including the Fifa Confederations Cup, Uefa Euro, Uefa Champions League and Uefa Europa League. Besides the likes of Manchester United malaysia tatler . october 2017
IMAGES: HUBLOT
The beautiful game spurs Hublot onto greater success, CEO Ricardo Guadalupe tells Terence Lim in Moscow
WATCHES | STYLE
TIMELY SUB The iconic Hublot referee board at the 2017 Fifa Confederations Cup in June this year
manager José Mourinho and Brazilian legend Pelé, Hublot also sponsors teams such as Juventus (Italy), Benfica (Portugal) and Chelsea (England). So, what is the big appeal of football for Hublot? We had the opportunity to sit down with CEO Ricardo Guadalupe in June in Moscow, where he was officiating the one-year countdown event to the 2018 Fifa World Cup Russia with Pelé, and for the opening of the brand’s latest boutique in the Russian capital. “In the 2010 Fifa World Cup, we had the
traditional referee board with the Hublot brand name below. But in 2014, we had the referee board in the shape of the watch, so it was easier for consumers to make the link between the watch and the brand,” said Guadalupe. “We had 21min of visibility in the World Cup—meaning that we reached billions of people. This is equivalent to hundreds of millions of advertising dollars, which we can never afford if we have to do something in every country. Thanks to that, the returns for us are incredible.”
KICK OFF Hublot rolls out commemorative straps bearing the colours of the participating nations of the 2017 Fifa Confederations Cup As the official timekeeper of the 2017 Fifa Confederations Cup, Hublot has created a series of straps in tribute to the eight participating countries— Russia, Germany, Australia, Chile, Mexico, New Zealand, Portugal and Cameroon. Besides Russia, which
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qualified as host nation, and Germany, the 2014 Fifa World Cup champions, the rest of the countries were winners of the Fifa continental championships. To be used on the iconic Big Bang Unico models, the straps feature the national colours of the participating
teams. And with the patented One Click system, swapping the straps is a cinch—a depression of the pusher on the lugs loosens the straps and they can easily be changed. What better way to show your allegiance to your favourite team?
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TEAM COLOURS Hublot created commemorative watch straps for the 2017 Fifa Confederations Cup
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TH E L EGE N D SPEAK S Extra time with Pelé COUNT DOWN
A one-year countdown ceremony was organised in anticipation of the 2018 Fifa World Cup in Russia
On the wide-ranging impact of football… Hublot is also banking on the game to break into football-crazy China, a country with immense potential but also one where the brand is still nascent. “China is a big market. We are not quite there yet. But by partnering Fifa, we talk to our Chinese audience,” Guadalupe explained. “As a result, we have seen 200 to 300 per cent growth, which is amazing especially in today’s economy.” This strategy is further amplified with Chinese president Xi Jinping’s personal push for the sport in China, which has seen footballing standards elevate tremendously and football-linked businesses going through a purple patch. But Guadalupe is keenly aware that there may or may not be a direct correlation between Hublot’s involvement in football and watch sales. After all, football is a branding strategy, not a sales-focused tack. “But Hublot has been successful in the past 10 years, which probably means that our marketing strategy has been correct,” he pointed out.
“The official announcement will be at the 2018 World Cup. And we’re making specific products for referees,” he explained. “That’s not to say that Hublot will be selling connected watches,” he added. Of course, working with seasoned football names is another tack that has served Hublot well. Pelé is a stellar example. The football legend has been very active with Hublot, flying halfway around the world to attend events and promote the brand. That he flew from São Paulo to Moscow—the flight is nearly 16 hours—to attend the World Cup countdown event despite having underwent a recent hip replacement surgery bore testament to his commitment to the watchmaker. “In every partnership, the human relationship is very important and we have very good alchemy with Pelé and his team,” said Guadalupe. “He flew from São Paulo specially for us. Which is a good sign—he really loves Hublot despite him having so many other engagements.” Hublot has never been a traditional LOOKING AHEAD brand; neither does it create classicReferee boards and touchline advertising looking watches like many other marques aside, Hublot is also looking to expand have done in the past 50 to 100 years. its branding reach. Spotted on the Going against the grain has clearly always wrists of the referees at the 2017 Fifa worked for the watchmaker. With such Confederations Cup in June were Hublot a mentality, it is not hard to see why it is smartwatches equipped with goal-line using football—a hugely popular sport technology. Not much detail about the but one hardly used by luxury brands to tickers was released but the watches were widen their reach—as a key awareness confirmed to be working prototypes by strategy. Looking at the success it has Guadalupe, who called the tournament enjoyed over the years, it is definitely a “laboratory”, where live testing not time to blow the full-time whistle was conducted. on football.
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“Because of football, we’ve had the opportunity to stop the [Biafran] war in Africa. There was a ceasefire that allowed team Santos to play against Nigeria.”
On football being run as a business… “In the past, people focused more on the game itself. But the business aspect is also very important—there’s big investment in all aspects of football. And unfortunately, someone has to pay the bill.”
On responsible sponsorship… “Beer and alcohol endorsements? These are not good for people or the sport. Hublot, on the other hand, supports the sport, which is good for the life of many people and their children. Football activities through schools can bring children off the streets.”
On why Hublot… “Before I became a Hublot brand ambassador, I didn’t know the brand at all. But I don’t want to support a bad product. Hublot wants to support sport and do charity to help children.”
On the evolution of football… “Football training today and in the past is not very different. From 1965 to 1970, the style was more technical. After 1970, it became more physical.”
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STYLE | JEWELLERY Y
DeGem enlivens the classic elegance of architecture as ancient structures and famous buildings are rebirthed as exquisite jewels
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weeping lines and sensuous curves can describe a numerous manner of things. However, the ones that first come to mind are the human body and architecture, which is why DeGem has blended the legacy of centuriesold historical architecture into a single, brilliant collection: the ARchT. Byzantine influences showcase themselves in the Grandeur and Azure Opulence range in the shapes of pendentives, domes and cones. With a starburst of dazzling colours and an extravagant selection of sugar loaf cut coloured gemstones, the rich history of the
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Byzantine empire comes to life. DeGem’s Venetian Knot range will have your heart in knots. Inspired by the carved motif of twisted knots on the facade of the Basilica San Marco in Venice, this collection is a tribute to the symbol of wealth and power that the Basilica represented. Meanwhile, lapis lazuli peeks through a delicate lattice, dancing with a blue so intense that it will steal your breath in DeGem’s oriental-inspired range. The Lattice series combines the rustic charm of ancient Chinese window grills with the brilliance of lapis lazuli and malachite. Contemporary twists to a historical structure, presenting you with the finest DeGem treasures. @ malaysia tatler . october 2017
WORDS: RACHEL NG; IMAGES: DEGEM
ARCHT-ECTURAL GLORY As seen on our cover stars this month (page 166), DeGem’s Collection gathers the architectural wonders of the world through their ARchT jewellery range, featuring (clockwise from left) Azure Opulence necklace cum brooch; Lattice series; Venetian Knot earrings, and Grandeur ring
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FOREVER YOURS Forevermark brings the legendary slogan ‘diamonds are forever’ back with their Endlea collection. An endless loop representing an eternity or a bow signifying femininity is inspired by the elegance of a ribbon bow. The pieces are dainty and classic enough to be worn for everyday wear no matter the occasion, expressing a timeless quality that truly is forever. Available at DeGem.
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De Beers borrows the soothing serenity of a lotus bloom and transplants it into their Lotus collection. Pristine diamonds, both polished and raw are used to recreate the hue of the water on which the lotus gently bobs. The collection represents several stages of the lotus: Awakening, Blooming, Flourishing, Radiating, Soothing and Enchanted, each style encapsulating a different mood.
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GUIDING STAR
Dior’s latest Rose des Vents collection is a tribute to the wind rose motif which played a huge part in the superstitious designer’s life—it is a lucky charm for the explorer at heart.
Hypnotise with Atelier Versace’s serpentine ring that will slither onto your finger. A gorgeous cocktail ring comprising a garnet hued focal gem wrapped in a nest of bejewelled snakes that you’ll be happy to be surrounded by, this is one show-stopping piece indeed.
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IN THE RIGHT COMPANY Facing the Big C can be easier to endure with the right support system, as shown by Hiba Abdul Rahman and Aliza Azani
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FEATURES PAGE
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An Intimate Dialogue We learn how three independent and spirited women are keeping Tunku Abdul Rahman’s values and legacy alive
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Staying Abreast of the Situation In conjunction with breast cancer awareness month, we get up close and personal with the loved ones of those affected
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How to Raise a Feminist All-in-one woman of the modern world Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie shares why she is not afraid to speak out
An Intimate Dialogue
GIRL TALK Lara and Natasha are in SportMax sweaters,Tunku Khadijah dons a Michael Kors shirt; jewellery is by DeGem
The legacy of Tunku Abdul Rahman is being kept alive by three courageous and independent women. Lily Ong interviews Tunku Khadijah Tunku Abdul Rahman, Sharifah Menyalara Hussein and Natasha Idris to uncover how his ďŹ ghting spirit lives on in them Photography KIM MUN Styling ANDREA KEE Hair KAY TUAN/CENTRO HAIR SALON Makeup IRENA ADAM USING LA MER
uring our photo shoot in Sharifah Menyalara Hussein’s home, photos of her grandfather Tunku Abdul Rahman caught my eye. A gentleman politician known for his diplomatic skills that secured our country its independence in 1957, Tunku’s face is one that every patriotic Malaysian knows. Today, he remains a beloved figure for what he stood for: unity, equality and integrity. “He had no racial bias towards people, he accepted them for who they are. He was idealistic, patriotic and brave; there’s never a sense of ego about him. Everything he did was for the country he loved,” recalls Menyalara, who is affectionately called Lara by her loved ones. Lara’s mother Tunku Khadijah Tunku Abdul Rahman seconds this observation. “He would talk to sweepers and gardeners the same way he would to a VIP,” she said. Having lost her mother at a very young age, Tunku Khadijah was close to her father and was a filial daughter.
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PORTRAIT OF A LADY “Grandma is a fighter. She has gone through so much in her life,” says Natasha about Tunku Khadijah
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“My mum would always be honest with me about her problems and struggles. She never hides her mistakes from me so I can learn from them. No matter how tough it gets, she keeps growing”
“Despite his progressive thinking and values, Tunku is old-fashioned in some ways. He never forced me to finish my studies because he believed that, as a woman I will be taken care of when I am married. Instead he encouraged me to pick up skills such as cooking and hairdressing. I once owned a hairdressing shop in Alor Setar that I closed down after I got married. My husband Datuk Syed Hussein Syed Abu Bakar was a diplomat, so I would travel with him to all of his postings abroad,” explained Tunku Khadijah. Tunku Khadijah is mother to three daughters: Sharifah Intan, Sharifah Hanizah and of course Lara, who is the youngest. Lara was named by Tunku after his beloved mother. “My father loved Lara dearly. Every time he was on the way to his own residence, he would always stop by my house to pick up Lara, to spend time his granddaughter,” she says. The family was aware they were sharing their family patriarch with their fellow countrymen; there were always visitors clamouring to meet Tunku. “He was not only my father, he was the Father of Malaysia,” says Tunku Khadijah proudly. Lara agrees. “Tunku was never like any other grandfather. He was not a grandpa you sit around and have small talk with. You naturally just want to listen to him talk. He had an aura about him that was so majestic —he just commands respect.” In her childhood, Lara followed her parents abroad during her father’s diplomatic postings. “Lara had always been active and curious about new things. Once, she learned crochet in a class filled with old ladies. It never bothered her at all because she just wanted to learn something new,” says Tunku Khadijah. It was during her father’s work in Canberra, Australia, that Lara found a hobby she fell deeply in love with—horse-riding, which she would then pass on to her own daughters. When she was older, her parents sent her to France and England to further her education. There, Lara developed from an active precocious child into a
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STRONG HEART Lara is wearing a dress by Salvatore Ferragamo, shoes by Roger Vivier and jewellery by DeGem
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headstrong, independent woman. Despite her tenacious streak, she respected her grandfather and answered his summons to return home to Malaysia after she finished her studies abroad. “At that time, he wanted me to serve the country via foreign service. I had my reservations, but I wanted to please him, so I returned. I went for interviews to work as a diplomat but because I have spent my whole life abroad as a diplomat’s kid, I spoke little Malay and couldn’t qualify for the job,” she recalls. As a result, she stumbled into advertising by chance then worked her way up in the industry, and is currently the MD of M&C Saatchi KL. “When my daughters Natasha and Natalya were born, I was so happy. Motherhood was what I wanted, and they gave me a purpose. I dedicated my whole being to looking after them. They were my motivation,” she says. Admittedly, juggling family and work demanded a lot out of Lara, but she persevered. “I am the type of person who needs to get things done. For me, it is do or die. This drive has defined me and built my career. Was it stressful, being a working mother? Of course! But I was focused. I knew I was never going to quit my job because I wanted to give my daughters the best experiences life has to offer,” she says resolutely.
“Natasha’s work is intense but she knows that time and effort are necessary in cultivating a career. I don’t tell her to come home early when she works late. I allow her to do it because that’s life. I don’t pamper her. She needs to know that to succeed, you must pay your dues” Natasha admires her mother, describing her as a lioness—courageous and protective. “My mum would always be honest with me about her problems and struggles since I was young. She never hides her mistakes from me so I can learn from them. No matter how tough it gets, she keeps growing,” she shares. In turn, Lara is proud of her two daughters. “I have been very lucky with them. I never had to tell them to work hard. They see it from me. I was never a mum who was sitting around, putting my feet up and doing nothing; they practice this today. Natasha’s work with Boston Consulting Group is intense but she knows from watching me that time and effort are necessary in cultivating a career. I don’t tell her to come home early when she works late. I allow her to do it because that’s life. I don’t pamper her or her sister. She needs to know that to succeed, you must pay your dues,” she iterates. The spirit of being fearless is indeed strong in Natasha, a Durham University graduate of economics and politics. When we met her for the photo shoot, she had just recovered from a broken rib after falling off her horse. “Show jumping is challenging but it is worth it. Of course it gets disheartening sometimes. Some days you win medals, then some days you do badly and fall off a horse.
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GETTING BACK UP Natasha isn’t afraid to fall and learn. She wears a dress by Tory Burch and a ring by DeGem
“Show jumping is challenging but it is worth it. Of course it gets disheartening sometimes. Some days you win medals, then some days you do badly and fall off a horse. But it makes you stronger, especially since I am quite competitive by nature”
PASSING THE REINS Natasha not only inherited her mother’s strength and drive, but her passion for horses too
“My father loved Lara dearly. Every time he was on the way to his own residence, he would always stop at my house to pick up Lara to spend time with her. She had always been active and curious about new things. She always wants to learn something new”
But it makes you stronger, especially since I am quite competitive by nature,” says the pretty 24-four-year-old with a laugh. Together with her beloved Dutch warmblood, Wacintha—whom she affectionately refers to as Wally—Natasha travels to Europe for competitions, on top of her day job at BCG. “To say I am proud of Tasha is an understatement, she knows what she wants and she goes after it. She has this business savviness to her that helps guide her path,” says Lara. Their shared strengths led to a book called Dialog: A Book on Tunku’s Timeless Thinking, launched in August, an initiative by M&C Saatchi KL and the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs. Featuring 23 essays from contributors and bundled with colourful illustrations by art students from The One Academy, the book was a labour of love by these three women. “I always felt I never really expressed tangibly what Tunku meant to me and Malaysians. I often wondered why is it only during Merdeka that people remember him?” expressed Lara with a tinge of sadness. Natasha chimes in, “I agree with mum. It is important for young people today to know more about our history. So that’s why I believed it was important to have young voices such as Harith Iskander and Altimet to contribute to the book alongside stalwarts like Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah and Tun Musa Hitam.” The book sparked conversation, which pleased Lara as she hoped his legacy is preserved in the right way. “Tunku inspired so many people because his intentions were pure. He was a fighter, and yet he was compassionate and full of integrity,” says Lara as our interview wrapped. Without a doubt, he has passed these traits and values on through his descendants—these women who are strong, fierce and fearless. @
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LOOKING UP TO MUM Working on the book about Tunku Abdul Rahman has brought the family closer together
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OF THE SITUATION
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Breast cancer is a plague that affects one in eight women globally, regardless of race, age or health condition. This month Kathlyn D’Souza gets up close and personal with the loved ones of those affected Photography SHAFFIQ FARHAN Art Direction SYAHLIA ALBINA SARI Hair and Makeup JOEY YAP AND ANGELINE LAW
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I AM
terribly sorry for this, but I have to let you know that my mum is turning down the opportunity to have a chat with Malaysia Tatler about my breast cancer. I’m afraid she’s still traumatised by the whole experience,” Priya, a breast cancer survivor, told me after I had approached her two weeks prior to receiving this text message. Our team had touched based with the National Cancer Society Malaysia, the Breast Cancer Welfare Association and Beacon International Specialist Centre, and their teams had kindly assisted us in reaching out to various survivors. Unfortunately, while the survivors were kind enough to reciprocate the contact, their friends and families were not keen on telling us their stories. Those who had been acting as caretakers of the sufferers got the brunt of it all, more often than not, thus their reluctance to recall the trauma. “My mum still can’t get over it. She still has trouble looking at my scars,” Priya explained further. Some parents forbid their children from talking about their breast cancer, preferring to treat it like it never happened, understandably. Mercifully, we had managed to get two people to talk about their experiences being part of the whole ordeal, watching on and supporting, as their loved ones ploughed through the plague that is breast cancer. One gentleman, Mohammad Redza Zainal, is a devoted husband and caretaker of his wife, Fara Aida Farid, as she battles this disease. The other, Aliza Azani, practises the saying ‘best friends forever, through thick and thin’, as her closest friend Hiba Abdul Rahman stuck through treatments and survived. We also spoke to Dr Azura Rozila of Beacon International Specialist Centre on how to deal with spousal stress. In line with the Breast Cancer Awareness month, we strive to highlight and appreciate not only those who have survived or are fighting breast cancer, but those who have been with them every step of the way—as warriors themselves, not just as an after-thought.
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HIBA & ALIZA Often mistaken for being sisters
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THE BEST FRIEND
Aliza and Hiba met through mutual friends in their teens, during an ice-skating outing. They could talk about anything and everything, getting along like a house on fire, and are best friends until today. How did you feel when you first found out that Hiba had breast cancer? “My first reaction was of disbelief. I couldn’t believe that she of all people would be diagnosed with breast cancer, and at such a young age. As far as I knew, she had always been quite a healthy young lady. She took care of herself and ate well—she also did not have any unhealthy vices. The first thing that I thought to ask her was if she’s gotten a second (or even a third) opinion. I just couldn’t believe it. While on the phone, I was the one who broke down and cried, and she was the one who said it was going to be alright.” What was it like, the process of accepting it? “I was in disbelief for quite some time, but I was determined to support her as much as I can. And so, by watching her go through her treatments and dealing with the after-effects, I slowly accepted that it was real. It was happening. It was hard not to feel anger about the circumstances, but seeing her smile and be her ever-jolly self through it all made it somewhat easier to just accept it as it was. Her positive attitude was infectious, and I found myself shifting from questioning ‘Why?!’ to thinking ‘What can I do to help?’, and it became easy to just fall into the supporting role. Of course, it wasn’t all rainbows and butterflies, so when she had her down days, I did what I could to be present with her— emotionally and physically.”
LOCATION: THE GOOD CO.
What was the most gruelling moment or memory of this entire experience? “I’m not very good with blood and seeing people in pain—the hardest bit for me was first seeing her chemo-port, and then seeing her wounds after surgery… I wished I could take some of the pain away.” Where did you channel your stress to? “Physical activity. It has always been my outlet, and I didn’t see any reason to change that. It’s important to also care for ourselves when we’re taking on the caretaker role. We’re no good to others if we’re no good to ourselves. Emotionally, I would talk to our other friends whom we call Care Bears—one of us is a doctor, thus we get our medical information from her.”
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How did you maintain a strong exterior to keep her strong too? “I’m a very soft-hearted person and after some time, I decided not to work very hard to keep a strong facade, she would’ve seen right through it and it would have just made matters worse. Instead, I encouraged her to talk about what was happening and I took an interest in everything that was happening in and around her life (not just the cancer, but also relationship, home life, etc). I think that’s a much better way to keep the person we’re caring for, going—by being with them in the moment. That way, they won’t feel as if they’re going through it alone. And the truth is, Hiba wasn’t going through it alone. She had me and all of us with her through it all.” What changes did you make to your lifestyle? “The biggest change I made in my life at the time was to stay over at the hospital with her on days that she needed to be admitted for treatment. We (the Care Bears) thought of it as sleepovers—she had friends over in the ward most of the time she was there, and we played some games when she was up to it. Other times we just kept her company. After that, the night’s volunteer ‘vigil’ will stay in the hospital with her through the night. Nowadays, we’re pickier with our surroundings whenever we go out; we try to go to places with healthier food choices and keep away from smokers as much as we can.” Did you ever feel yourself changing throughout this ordeal? “Let’s just say it made me appreciate the little things in life even more, and it also made me see the very real value of friendship, love and laughter. It allowed us to be more genuine with each other, and suffice to say, in our closest circle, material things have become somewhat immaterial.” How has constantly being in the hospital environment changed your perception? “Looking back, going to the hospital again and again was somewhat like a sign of hope to me. Every time I went to the hospital, she was one step closer to finishing her treatment. It was hard to see her becoming weaker and weaker with every passing cycle, but I believed there was a light at the end of the tunnel. If I had to do it over again, I wouldn’t change anything. I’d go on a thousand more hospital trips with her if I could, if it means seeing her get better.” Advice for friends going through the same thing with their own loved ones? “Be there for them. It’s their bodies and their journey, but they don’t have to feel alone through it all. It’s as simple as a text or a call, or getting the food they like when they’re feeling their weakest. Keep them company when they’re feeling low, and help them make sense of all the jargons and treatment options available out there because it can be too much to take in sometimes. Ultimately, spend time with them, the people that we love.”
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THE HUSBAND
Even good men struggle with their commitment to ‘for better or for worse’. For Redza, a former flourishing videographer and documentarist for History Channel Asia, everything was worth giving up for his wife
REDZA & FARA Husband and wife
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What was the first thing that crossed your mind when you found out about Fara’s breast cancer? “There were a lot of questions. What would happen to her? What would happen to me? What would happen to my work, our finances, and so on and so forth. It was very hard for me to focus and accept that she had cancer. I knew about cancer, obviously, but not in-depth. I don’t know about emotions, sensitivities … so when I found out, we had discussed what to do, and about hospital issues. At the time, we were in a very bad spot financially. We didn’t have a lot of options. On top of that, as I did not understand the disease and the character of breast cancer victims, I became very defensive and was in denial. When she told me she was in pain, I had often asked her to ‘relax lah’, not knowing how to deal with it.”
and emotional support, plus protect her from things that could potentially hurt and influence her, especially from people around us. I didn’t want her to be frustrated and demoralised. I became her shield. I also think Fara is a fighter, taking it one day at a time—and that makes me strong. If my wife wasn’t fighting back, I would probably have given up earlier as well.”
documentary industry here in Malaysia. But when she got the cancer, I had to put everything on hold as I wasn’t ready to lose my wife. I was ready to lose my job, but not my wife. If I lose my job, I can still write stories. But if I lose my wife, I don’t know what I’m going to do. I would be losing everything, as she has been my companion for a long time.”
Where do you channel your stress to? “I read books on war! I bought about 10 books about them. Just to take my mind off and disconnect for a while. I read about these people who suffer (more than I do) and make it through, which makes me hopeful and gives me strength, strangely. Obviously, there are times when I feel down, especially where finances are concerned, but you have to work it out.”
What were initial trips to the hospital like? “She came home from the hospital one time crying, she was so scared of what the doctor had just told her, and I was confounded. She had not wanted to go for chemotherapy, because it had seemed so daunting. I tried to convince her to go, and that was the source of our many fights. Out of rage, I remember telling her, ‘everybody dies, so just go to the hospital.’ But in the end, I listened to her, asked her what she wanted to do—whether there were other alternatives to consider, such as traditional herbal medicine. That went on for two years, where I let her do whatever she wanted. After many failures, I put my foot down and decided it was time for us to go to the hospital.”
Have you ever told her how frightened you are? “Never. I always try to make plans for both of us, as if nothing is happening—we plan dates, we go to beaches like Cherating every week; get out from the crowd. As husbands, I feel like it is our duty to take our wives’ minds off the severity of the problem, and be their anchors. If I’m worried, everything will get worse. Even if it’s pipe dreams of having holiday homes, we talk about all these little things. Nothing should change in a relationship between a husband and his wife. Fara once told me that she didn’t want me to treat her like I would a sick person, and I tried my best.”
Do you have any advice for husbands going through the same thing? “If you want to run, what is the reason? If you’re running because she won’t have breasts, or that you do not want to be responsible, why is that? To me, she is what really should matter. We have so much fun being together that even the sex life doesn’t matter anymore. Also, get as much information about the cancer patient’s behaviour. Doctors will talk about treatments and such, but you’re the one who’s going to face your loved ones day in and day out.”
How did you cope all this while? “I browsed a lot of books and the Internet— not about treatments initially, but about the behaviour of cancer patients, so that I can learn how to cope better. I can’t tell her about treatments as I am not qualified. The only thing I knew was to give her moral
What has changed the most, in your life? “My career has been put on hold for the past two years. When she first got cancer, my career was taking off, the momentum was very good. I had good stories, and whenever I pitched to the channels, it was always accepted and broadcasted. I had assignments everywhere. Not many people have that chance in the
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DR AZURA Medical oncologist
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THE EXPERT
The effervescent and bubbly Dr Azura Rozila Ahmad indulged us in an eye-opening chat regarding spousal involvement and the stress that comes with diagnostics What is your advice for partners who have just found out about their loved ones’ diagnosis? “It’s important that they listen to what’s going on, and how it’s affecting their wives or partners. They need to give themselves time to process, as the information is just too heavy and can be a bit too much. They’re there to play a supporting role, which is so important for the patient. It is also important that you do not rely on one source. Multiple researches can help in formulating a decision plan, which is a big process. And as far as partners and spouses are concerned, listening and facilitating is a huge task. They will be taking on more roles as well, not just to take care of their partners physically as they undergo treatments, but they also have to take over household duties, parenting, keeping everybody together—they are very much involved. The woman’s diagnosis is the partner’s diagnosis as well. From the beginning to the end, the partners are very much involved. They go through the same feelings that the woman does—the shock, the unpreparedness, difficulty in coping, changes in how you spend your days worrying, struggling, adapting. It’s not an illness that just affects one person.” What are some of the backlashes that you’ve received from the partners? “By the time they come to me they’ve very much already been pre-empted by other doctors. Cancer is a disease where you see a lot of doctors as you navigate through the health system. Some cope better and some don’t at all. They’re never angry, they’re always in denial because they’ve done everything properly—eating healthy and such, but they’re not sure why this happened. There are some partners who are completely quiet and withdrawn, out of shock, stunned and unable to process the information. Some of them don’t even want to go into the clinic because they cannot cope. It’s just such a big thing, trying to discuss what’s going on. It’s important that patients have a second pair of ears though.” What do you recommend loved ones do to cope with the stress better? “We just have to let them know that it’s acknowledged, that it’s okay, and they DON’T
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have to be strong all the time. We can help them acknowledge that whatever they’re feeling is okay. There’s the worry that comes with the uncertainty, not knowing if they’ll get better. Of course, we do hope for the best and the hope that it won’t come back. Many people have their own way and time for coping, but talking to someone really helps—they can talk to their friends, family or people over the Internet, where they can remain anonymous. In a way, this is an area that is not well-researched or discussed, but there are evidences that husbands or partners find coping difficult. They’re not there as the background, but part of the process. It’s a huge change for them as well. They don’t voice it out, because they think the priority is not on them, but rather on the person who has the illness. It does, however, also affect them on all levels.” What’s the important thing for loved ones to know when it comes time to accepting this disease? “Think about how to make it work. There will come a time when you need to change, given the unpredictable nature of the situation. Make plans, which involves getting information, exploring options and seek to understand the disease. You need to have faith in the treatment of breast cancer. Things have changed, outcomes are better, treatments do work. You need to believe in that and support them to get through it. It will take a bit of emotional strength because there is no guarantee that everything is going to be hunky dory, but if you keep moving, you know you’re going to see results. You also need to show that you care and that you love them. There will be changes in the patient’s body image and they will suffer from confidence and self-esteem problems. There will be problems in intimacy of course, but you need to adapt, in time. At the end of the day, you also need to take care of yourself. It’s okay if you have a certain way of coping to these reactive emotions such as taking time to see your friends or shut off, to keep your sanity. And it’s alright. People have their own caves, and they need to be somewhere to recharge. Life works in a miraculous way, and I believe it’s a learning opportunity—it teaches patience, strength, spirituality, selflessness… and of course, don’t give up.”
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IMAGE: CHRIS FLOYD
STANDING PROUD The award-winning author and feminist thinker isn’t afraid to speak out
TO FEMINIST Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a writer, a mother, a thinker and a fashion icon— an all-in-one woman of the modern world. And she won’t have it any other way, writes Marianna Cerini
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er 2012 TEDx talk We Should All Be Feminists counts more than four million views on YouTube. It was adapted into a New York Times bestseller, and turned into a slogan touted by Christian Dior in its spring 2017 collection. Now, her latest book is being hailed as a “feminist blueprint” for how to raise a feminist daughter.
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Is Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie the feminist icon of the 21st century? Ask anyone familiar with the author and you’ll get a resolute, collective yes. But Adichie herself? She has a rather different answer. “No, I am not,” she says. “I have become a voice of modern feminism, I’ll concede that, even though it wasn’t at all intended. But I am not an icon, nor a leading figure of any kind. I just speak my mind.” But she speaks it with an eloquence and purpose that has made her work reverberate across countries and diverse audiences. Which makes her, if not an icon, certainly one of the most remarkable women in contemporary culture today. “I am, simply, a writer,” she insists. “And a person who, for her entire life, has felt very strongly about how women are treated in the world.” Born in 1977 in eastern Nigeria, Adichie grew up in Nsukka, a university town, the fifth of six children. Despite the predominantly patriarchal nature of Nigerian culture, her household was a progressive one: her father was a professor of statistics and deputy vice-chancellor at the University of Nigeria; her mother was the university’s first female registrar. They were open, kind parents, Adichie says, “who allowed me to follow my own path.” That path led her to drop out of medical school in Nigeria a year and a half after enrolling and, at 19, pack her bags and move to the States on a scholarship, where she pursued her ambitions as a writer. Today, Adichie and her family live between Lagos and Baltimore, Maryland, and consider both countries home. Adichie was 26 when she published
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her first novel, Purple Hibiscus, which was shortlisted for the Orange Prize for Fiction and won the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize. Her second book, 2006’s Half of a Yellow Sun—set during the Biafran War in Nigeria— was also critically acclaimed, picking up a number of international prizes. In 2008 she won a MacArthur Fellowship—the so-called ‘Genius Grant,’ given annually to between 20 and 30 “extraordinary” individuals working in any field—and in 2013, the National Book Critics Circle Award for fiction for Americanah, a modern love story set between America and Nigeria. The common thread to all her writing? Her uncompromising heroines—some of the most engrossing characters in recent fiction. During those same years, Adichie became well known for her public speaking on issues spanning race, gender and equality. Her 2009 TED talk The Danger of a Single Story, which warned against seeing the world from a single perspective, went viral—it currently counts 12 million views on the TED website. Her next talk, We Should All Be Feminists, addressed a feminism beyond race or class. It took on a life of its own, and projected the author into celebrity territory. Beyoncé even sampled the speech in her 2013 song Flawless. After the huge success of her talk , Adichie wrote a book of the same title which turned into a call to arms for a generation of young feminists—so much so that in 2015, every 16-year-old high school student in Sweden was given a copy as a mandatory read. Adichie has received a fair share of criticism for the book, particularly from some of her Nigerian readership, which doesn’t quite know how to grapple with her role as a feminist as well as a writer. “Which is frustrating, but I have come
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THE TEE WE SHOULD ALL BE WEARING
“We should allow women to be more than ‘mother,’ or ‘wife’” to terms with it,” she says. “People need to understand that we can be many things at the same time.” As for the success of the book, “I don’t think I was telling women what they don’t know,” Adichie says. “My thoughts and anger are shared by many, and I think my words just articulated those feelings.” She is, she admits, still very angry today. “Gender inequality is very much an unresolved issue in many places in the world,” she says. “From the States, where you have a room full of men making decisions about women’s bodies and casual misogyny that is just routine; to Italy, where a worrying number of women are killed by former partners, or are often victims of acid attacks.” Does she foresee any change? “Oh, I hope so,” she sighs. “There has been some progress over the last few years, at least here [in America], but so much has yet to be done. Starting from changing people’s cultural mindsets on how they think of women, and what they expect of them.” Which is where her latest book, Dear
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Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions, comes into play. Written as a letter to a friend who asked Adichie’s advice on how to raise her baby girl as a feminist, the 63-page volume sets a series of basic but essential guidelines about everything from how to parent (“Do it together”) to using the right language (“‘Because you are a girl’ is never a reason for anything. Ever.”) to challenging traditional gender roles (“Never speak of marriage as an achievement”). “Her job is not to make herself likable,” Adichie writes, “her job is to be her full self.” Such assertions have become particularly personal for Adichie since the birth of her first daughter, now 20 months old. “I wrote Dear Ijeawele before I became a mother myself, but I now feel even more strongly about it,” she says. “Motherhood is a glorious thing, and it has given me a new perspective on the subject. But it has also reinforced my belief that we should allow women to be more than ‘mother,’ or ‘wife.’ That’s what I mean when I say I want my child to ‘be a full person.”’ Adichie tells me of a fairly well-known
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OFF THE SHELF Unputdownable, engrossing and poignant, these three books by Adichie are essential reads
Half of a Yellow Sun The Biafran War sets the scene for a compassionate, brilliant account of strength and resilience.
Americanah Published in 2013, the novel tells a story of love, race, and identity. It won the National Book Critics Circle Fiction Award.
Dear Ijeawele A ‘feminist’ blueprint, Adichie’s latest book offers important guidelines on how to raise girls to be feminists.
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AN EMPOWERING VOICE “Women haven’t been allowed to contribute as much as they should. As a society, we’re losing out for that”
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woman who recently had a baby, and, wanting some time for herself to go and get her hair done, left the infant with her caregiver. When her in-laws found out, they were horrified. “It’s a small thing, but it’s very telling of the core problem so many of us face: the idea that, once you’re a mother, you’re not supposed to care about yourself; that you’re no longer a person. I loathe that judgmental approach.” Having her daughter hasn’t changed much of Adichie’s approach to work—“besides the sleep deprivation,” she laughs. If anything, it has made her hungrier for tangible change. “I want my daughter to never apologise for who she is, for her opinions; for simply occupying space in this world. I want her to feel like she fully matters. I want her to be kind. And I want the world she’ll live in to make all of this possible.” It’s something Adichie can strive towards with her feminist discourse, perhaps. “Yes and no,” she says. “I am a feminist, it’s part of who I am. But I am not here to create a feminist ‘manual’ of any kind. I believe that kind of feminism—the one that sets and abides by narrow criteria of what makes a feminist—alienates a lot of ordinary women that are just trying to get by. No real change can come from that.” “I didn’t become a feminist because I read a book,” she explains. “I’ve been a feminist since I was a child, because I simply watched the world and the gender injustice that comes with it. So yes, my writing might help voice perspectives other women share, and challenge common assumptions in the process. But for a shift to really take place—for women to actually be allowed by society to contribute how they rightfully should—‘feminism’ needs to become an all-inclusive concept embraced by different classes and genders. It’s something we have to fight for.” Adichie herself fully personifies the defiance she proposes. Over the past year, the author became the face of British retailer Boots’ No7 beauty brand, pushing back the idea that intellect and makeup can’t go hand in hand. “I am so tired of people saying that if you’re part of the literati and a real feminist then you shouldn’t care for frivolous things,” she says. “It’s just plain misogynistic, and all the more frustrating
when it comes from other women.” She has also made her style a talking point. During Paris Fashion Week last September, she sat front row as guest of honour at the Dior show—the perfect perch from which to see models strutting down the runway, sporting T-shirts that bore the line: We Should All Be Feminists. The design was an ode to the power of her work, but it also firmly placed her on the Olympus of fashion’s power players. Celebrities and influencers from Rihanna to Jennifer Lawrence and Chiara Ferragni have all been spotted flaunting the tees, as have style-savvy women around the globe. But the collaboration was also disparaged, with some pundits hailing it as proof of the commercialisation of modern feminism—the tees sell for US$710. “Critics will always be there, but I am not interested in winning any popularity contest,” says Adichie. “I love the T-shirts, and I love that Maria Grazia [Chiuri, Dior’s new creative director] decided to use my words as a ‘slogan,’ so to speak. She’s genuine and real and interesting, so when she came to me with the idea, I had no qualms giving my permission. “Yes, they’re expensive by most women’s standards, but what I find interesting is the response they’ve been met with—starting with the plethora of knockoffs on sale on eBay, which both Maria Grazia and I find wonderful. The most appealing aspect of it is how people have embraced and shown off a message and a word, ‘feminist,’ that’s still so problematic for many,” she explains. Recently, Adichie started a new style project, Wear Nigerian, to support designers from her native country. She’s decided to wear mostly Nigerian brands for public appearances, and enrolled the help of her nieces Chisom and Amaka to run an Instagram page displaying her outfits. “It’s a lot of fun,” she laughs. “And fascinating, too. I am discovering so many new Nigerian brands. Not everything I order has been of the highest quality, but I enjoy wearing the clothes.” “This is who I am,” she says. “A person who likes lipstick and cares about her appearance, and a person who wants to fight for gender equality and write about race and politics and what it means to be a woman. Nobody can tell me otherwise.”
IMAGE: WANI OLATUNDE
“Feminism needs to become an all-inclusive concept embraced by different classes and genders. It’s something we have to fight for”
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LIFE M A L AYS I A TAT L E R
Travel, cars, philanthropy and expressions
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CARS
WELLBEING
EXPRESSIONS
GENERATION T
Dream destinations and your guide for packing and planning for the holiday season
Driving around town in the distinctly solid Mitsubishi Outlander will leave you inspired
Wacoal gives women who had mastectomy a chance to regain their femininity
Andrew Kwan opens up about a lifechanging event that made him stronger
Devan Linus shares his tips for success while reminding us to live life to the fullest
WHEN THE WORLD OF ART AND SCIENCE COLLIDE A day of exploring the exhibits at the ArtScience Museum in Singapore was an exciting and educational one for Bryan Loo and his family—page 196
TRAVEL | GETAWAYS
Stay Here IMAGES: ISTOCK AND RESPECTIVE BRANDS
What’s your type—virgin beaches, rugged mountains or dynamic cities? Samantha Lim scouts out new destinations to satisfy your wanderlust
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EAT HERE HALAL HUB A gourmet destination through and through, Melbourne is oft affiliated with robust coffee and contemporary brunches, but rarely receives love for its abundance of halal eateries. Some thoughtful recommendations from Tourism Victoria include Almaro Italian Restaurant for generously portioned pastas and pizzas, Burger Edge for high stacked, flamed-licked burgers, Chilli India for rich dishes laced with a spicy edge, and Rumi for bona fide Lebanese cuisine perfumed with spices.
MILLENNIAL HUB INDUSTRIAL CHIC ON A BUDGET Winter travels in the Land of The Rising Sun just got a lot hotter with the announcement of Moxy Hotels, a youth-targeted chain by Marriott International. Largely catering to millennials who are changing the face of travel, the Moxy concept champions highly sociable communal areas, chic industrial interior designs plus smart, keyless bedrooms and photo booth elevators to boost your Instagram feed. Tokyo- and Osakabound travellers will be the first to experience the frenzied fun of Moxy.
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ryan loo and Sally Quah enjoy taking their two daughters Kylie and Hayley for short staycations. The charming CEO of Loob Holdings confessed that carving time for himself for personal holidays is a luxury these days. “Balance doesn’t exist in my vocabulary, so when I can, I take short breaks with Sally and the girls,” he says. Therefore, when the opportunity came for Bryan and his family to enjoy a retreat in Singapore courtesy of Marina Bay Sands, he and Sally were happy for the quick getaway with their daughters. With world-class fine dining, shopping and entertainment that includes a casino and the Moshe Safdie-
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designed hotel with over 2,500 rooms, Marina Bay Sands is investing a lot of thought and effort into building its position as an attraction for both adults and children alike. Case in point: the hotel’s newly completed family room on the second and third floor of the complex. Designed with families in mind, this sanctuary is furnished with a king-sized bed and two single beds for a family of four. Upon checking in at the family room suites, Kylie and Hayley were thrilled at the prospect of having their own beds, and tucked their stuffed toys underneath the covers to mark their territory. Like her daughters, Sally too expressed her excitement at the child-sized bathrobes made available, which she would use to dress them for a quick swim at the complex’s iconic rooftop infinity pool later in the afternoon. malaysia tatler . october 2017
IMAGES: MARINA BAY SANDS SINGAPORE
At Marina Bay Sands, Lily Ong indulged in good food and childlike fun in the company of Bryan Loo, Sally Quah and their two adorable daughters
DAY 1: FOOD FOR THE SOUL
After checking in, we paid a visit to Pizzeria Mozza for a carb-rich snack of decadent pizzas before popping over next door for a second lunch at Osteria Mozza. Peter Birks, the Brisbane native overseeing the regional Italian cuisine served at the restaurant, kept delights after delights coming for Bryan and his family—from rich and heavenly food like linguine with clams, pancetta and spicy chilies as well as tantalising courses like grilled Wagyu beef tagliata with rucola and parmigiano reggiano from the wood-fire grill. Bryan, who is ever the curious F&B entrepreneur, expressed interest in trying out the restaurant’s famous mozzarella bar, laden with approximately 16 different kinds of cheeses from Los Angeles to Italy which are made available for tasting. After a satisfying lunch, it was time for an afternoon of cultural enrichment as we headed off to the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum. Future World: Where Art Meets Science is the museum’s new permanent exhibition, created in collaboration with the Japanese interdisciplinary art collective teamLab. It was this exhibition that we chose to spend our afternoon at, as Sally and her daughters made a prompt beeline to Sliding Through the Fruit Field, a colourful interactive artwork designed for children that is projected onto a newly designed slide. Kylie and Hayley were beside themselves with glee as they glided down the slide; their contact with the slope causing the slide screen to conjure up beautiful animations. Hayley—in a smart move for a child so young—tried to slide backwards to watch the animation as she goes down. As for me, I spent most of my time at the Black Waves exhibition, which features walls rendered entirely in digital technology malaysia tatler . october 2017
throughout the space—depicting the sea in the style of traditional Japanese painting. It was relaxing just to sit in the cushions strewn about the floor of the room, and watch the rhythmic movements of the water particles on the walls that looked as if it was alive. Then it was time for some engaging fun at Town. Kylie and Hayley were particularly taken by Sketch Town, an innovative installation that engages children through play. This installation is a depiction of a fictitious town, based on Singapore that includes recognisable landmarks. Young visitors use crayons and paper to draw a building, a car, or a plane for Sketch Town. When their twodimensional pictures are placed in a digital
FAMILY DAY OUT Night view of Marina Bay Sands; the Loo family at the Space Crystal Universe exhibit; Low Country Laksa; The Bird Southern Restaurant and Bar
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TRAVEL | EXPERIENCES WHEN ART AND SCIENCE MEET Future World: Where Art Meets Science is a crowd pleaser; fun for the little ones throughout the exhibition’s interactive areas
scanner, they enter the town, becoming 3D animated objects. The visitors’ urban designs become part of a vast projected city, which they can physically interact with through touch and movement, bringing the town to life. Touch a car, for example, and it will speed up, or change direction. After two hours of play at the exhibition, we retreated to our rooms to refresh ourselves, followed by dinner at The Bird Southern Restaurant and Bar—another renowned eatery under Marina Bay Sands. The restaurant serves southern US classic dishes, including the famous 100-year-old recipe for Lewellyn’s fine fried chicken and grilled mango salad. Among the classic southern favourites, The Bird has also included as part of their menu, a Singaporeexclusive dish with an inventive spin on local cuisine—the Low Country Laksa. After dinner, it was time for a nostalgic walk down memory lane, as we all attended the show, Disney in Concert: A Wish Is A Dream in MasterCard Theatres. Like every little girl who wishes to be a princess, Kylie and Hayley thoroughly enjoyed the show and excitedly sang along to famous songs from numerous Disney movies, both old and new.
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DAY 2: EAT, PLAY, THINK
The next day, it was time for us to indulge in retail therapy, VIP-style. After a customised tour around the shopping area of Marina Bay Sands on a swanky buggy, we split up once again as Bryan and Sally took their daughters for a shopping experience in stores catering to children, while I took up Marina Bay Sands’ personal shopping experience for the day. Available for booking at S$250 per session, the Personal Shopping at The Shoppes is a tailored experience for any shopper’s needs. Prior to the appointed date, I had filled up a comprehensive questionnaire detailing information that will help customise the experience to my needs. After examining my answers, the team at Marina Bay Sands malaysia tatler . october 2017
MEET NADINE
FUTURE IDEAS The Human+ Exhibit provided plenty of food for thought for Bryan Loo—about what it means to be human in a world of technology
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This social robot greets visitors at the end of the Human+ exhibition in the ArtScience Museum
arranged for me to pay a visit to French label Anne Fontaine—known for their chic monochrome everyday office wear. It was a fun experience, getting to try out different outfit combinations, as the store’s helpful assistants put together look after look for me. While the personal shopping experience comes with a high tea treat at the TWG Tea Salon and Boutique after the session, I opted out because I had lunch plans with the Loos at db Bistro and Oyster Bar. There, over a scrumptious three-course lunch, we swapped our shopping tales; Kylie and Hayley proudly showed me all the cute dresses their mother had bought for them. Then, they were eager to revisit the ArtScience Museum, so we decided to re-enter the Future World exhibition, where Bryan and I left Sally and the girls at Town to explore the Space exhibit. Situated at the end of the Future World exhibit, we immersed ourselves in the stunning artworks created with teamLab’s Interactive 4-D Vision technology using more than 170,000 LED lights, creating the illusion of stars moving in space. We decided to also explore the HUMAN+ The Future of Our Species exhibition, which explores the possible outcome of the future of our species. The point of this thought-provoking showcase is to ask, what it means to be human in a world of artificial intelligence, lifelike robots and genetic modification. It probes the social, ethical and environmental questions raised by using technology to modify ourselves. Bryan, who is curious by nature, enjoyed every minute of this exhibition, from learning about the world’s first cyborg Neil Harbisson and meeting the Singaporean-built social robot, Nadine. Bryan even sat down and initiated a social conversation with her. To cap off our last evening together, we popped over to Adrift, a produce-based and Asian-inspired restaurant helmed by chef David Myers. At Sally’s encouragement, we then went out for supper and a nightcap at Clarke Quay before turning in for the night. All in all, it was a memorable weekend escape for all of us—an experience that proved that whether you are an adult or child, you can always find ways to have fun and relax at Marina Bay Sands.
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A Conquest of Self
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was never a fit person. I never believed in exercise and I would pretend I didn’t know what the word ‘gym’ was. As I grew older, I realised my health was going ‘downhill’, from my lowering metabolic rate to gaining weight faster. Yet it still it took me a while before I begrudgingly told myself I needed to exercise. Three years ago, I read this article about these two fitness gurus named Karena Dawn and Katrina Scott who were taking the Internet by storm. They were pioneering a movement known as Tone It Up—publishing workouts and nutrition plans online for you to follow. It was all about eating healthy and
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staying fit, and I wanted to do that. That was how my fitness journey began. I would do a workout at least once a day, seven days a week, from cardio to toning to outdoor activities. I even cooked my own meals. The hardest part of getting fit is always starting, and the second hardest part is continuing your regime. I realised, after joining the Tone It Up community, my stamina was getting better and I enjoyed exercising outdoors, especially hiking. Which was where it all started. That was when I realised I needed motivation—something to push me outside of my comfort zone. My husband Mike and I did a short trek through Annapurna before we got married, malaysia tatler . october 2017
PHOTOS: GABRIELLE TAN-HELFMAN
It took an intense exercise regime, discipline, mental strength and tons of willpower for Gabrielle Tan-Helfman to change her ‘unfit’ lifestyle in order to reach the Everest Base Camp. Here, she recounts her extraordinary journey
and at that time, I was very unfit, but somehow I still made it. He then said that he wanted to try Everest Base Camp (EBC) one day, and I told him to go with his friends because I wasn’t going to do it. However, after starting the fitness regime, I saw EBC differently. Maybe, I could do it after all. Last year, sometime in May, I decided not to procrastinate anymore and go for it. I thought to myself, if not now, then when? That was all it took for me to make up my mind. We found a few friends and we confirmed the trek. That’s when I started training for it. There were no excuses, I had a goal that I needed to keep working out for. I trained myself and sort of tailored workouts for myself. Of course, no one needs to train for a year. If you give yourself three to five months, it should be fine. While the physical training for the trek was intense, it was mental strength that helped me through the climb. I would advise potential trekkers to be prepared, that the journey will push you to your limits physically, emotionally and mentally. The trek to EBC can be long and strenuous, sometimes climbing uphill for one and a half to two hours straight. Sometimes during the climb, I would see
helicopters flying in and out, evacuating people, especially those who were suffering from altitude sickness. The high altitudes are also a huge deterrent, you can be the fittest person and still get altitude sickness. It is not a joke when the sickness hits. Especially the closer you get to base camp, the thinner the air feels. I think being mentally positive also helped me in getting to base camp and back. I started suffering from altitude sickness at about 4,200m, having headaches, feeling nauseated and vomiting. That evening, I couldn’t even get out of bed. During the night, I told myself I had to get well and couldn’t let this stop me from reaching base camp. Somehow, the next morning, I was feeling fine, and soldiered on. I cannot describe the feeling of finally arriving at Everest Base Camp. I cried, no, I bawled. I spent the whole trek up the mountain entirely focused on the journey that when I reached the destination, it hit me, what I have achieved. It felt surreal. To me, it was not just an item to tick off my bucket list. It was so much more than that—it was a transformative experience. I don’t think anything else can top that.” @
GABRIELLE’S EBC TIPS: Plan your exercise routines across different disciplines. Aside from improving your stamina, cardio, endurance and leg strength, do not forget nor neglect your shoulders and arm strength. Surround yourself with people that motivate, encourage and support you. That was what my husband Mike did. Having a workout partner, and someone who would follow you for the climb, is always an advantage. Be mentally prepared. Because of my research before the trek, I was already ready to rough it out, with the very basics in terms of accommodation and toilets. If possible, be sure that you are trekking with positive company. When the conditions are hard, you need to keep going. The only way to do so is to be among good vibes.
TRIAL OF STRENGTH Opposite page: Gabrielle and her husband Michael Helfman; Gabrielle overcame her fears during the climb, coming out of it a different woman
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TRAVEL | GETAWAYS
Hollywood North Vancouver, British Columbia ranks among North America’s busiest film production sites, hence its ‘Hollywood North’ moniker. Samantha Lim goes starry-eyed from its sights and sounds
PARK THAT THOUGHT Surrounded by water and sprawled out across 4.049 square kilometres, Stanley Park is enchanting, especially during the change of seasons. Fun fact: the innumerable grey squirrels seen scampering around the park today are the offspring of a few pairs of breeding squirrels gifted by the Mayor of New York in 1909. Another place where you can fill your lungs with fresh air is the VanDusen Botanical Gardens with its immaculately manicured Elizabethan Maze and Korean Pavilion, a present from the Korean government in 1986.
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Picturesque trails in the forest at Wreck Beach make for enjoyable hikes
SUN’S OUT, BUMS OUT Clothing is optional at Wreck Beach, Canada’s one and only public naturist beach, so don’t be alarmed to see people baring it all in their birthday suits. While there is no pressure to drop your pants, please be polite and do not gawk at, or photograph others. The beach itself is a beauty with a fir forest close by and eagles and seagulls circling in the blue sky.
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WINING & DINING Offering much, much more than maple syrup, Canada is a melting pot of cultures, and nowhere else is this as apparent than in Vancouver. Splash across the False Creek Inlet via Aquabus to sample pickings of local fare at the farmer’s market on Granville Island, open seven days a week.
Also make advance reservations for Bauhaus, arguably Vancouver’s best fine dining restaurant. Owned by film director Uwe Boll and housed in the historic Boulder Hotel built in 1890, the contemporary German restaurant has a wine list that would make most oenophiles weep tears of joy.
BARGAINS GALORE A bonanza for fans of premium brands, McArthurGlen Designer Outlets sees slashed prices for the likes of Coach, Brooks Brothers Factory, Club Monaco, Hugo Boss, Ted Baker and more. Parked just five minutes away from Vancouver International Airport, the outlet’s prime location makes it easy to haul your spoils back home.
CULTURE VULTURE Erected in place of a provincial courthouse, the Vancouver Art Gallery is home to some 11,000 artworks, not including travelling exhibitions. Get familiarised with Canada’s finest artists such as Emily Carr and the Group of Seven.
NIGHT OWLS A deep thirst for craft beer is the only justification you’ll need to visit Alibi Room, which carries a wide breadth of hoppy beverages. Next, stumble over to Guilt & Co to watch some saucy cabaret, a blues band or spontaneous swing dancing. Both venues are parked in historic Gastown.
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Travel
Outfitted with open-air and indoor attractions and services, McArthurGlen Designer Outlets beckons shoppers in nine countries around the globe
Autumnal Savings On any given day, McArthurGlen Designer Outlets offer discounts of up to 70 per cent on a myriad of designer brands, but the designer outlet is unrolling additional perks this autumn. Holiday-goers getting their passports stamped in Austria, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, the United Kingdom and British Columbia can bet their bottom dollar on the Wonders of Autumn promotion being a highlight of their trip. Spanning the length of September 23 through October 22, and taking effect at 15 participating outlets, the seasonal campaign begins with one simple step: Visit McArthurGlen.com/WOA to download a complimentary invite, entitling you to a 10 per cent off Fashion Passport, limited edition Karl Lagerfeld accessory and more enticing deals.
MCARTHURGLEN DESIGNER OUTLETS Representative office—SE Asia: Level 6, Lion Office Tower, 1 Jalan Nagasari, KL; E: southeastasia@mcarthurglen.com T: 03-2141 3899 W: mcarthurglen.com/WOA
Household names such as Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Paul Smith and Prada often offer off-season or final pieces at slashed prices, so be prudent and pile your carts. In order to better navigate the bountiful number of brands per outlet, pick up physical copies of an outlet map in-store or go green and download the said guide on your smartphones.
Wonders of Autumn Enjoy exclusive shopping privileges and a special gift
23 September - 22 October 2017 @McArthurGlenSEA McArthurGlen.com/WOA
TRAVEL | JET-SETTER
Essentials for the Year-End Holidays Carry-on or check-in these new, nifty products purposefully designed with the fashionable traveller in mind
NORTHERN HEMISPHERE: WINTER
Carolina Herrera coat
Don’t let biting winds bring you down or keep you from looking hot. A vintage looking coat will keep you cosy and oh so stylish.
Clé de Peau Beauté La Crème
Add more radiance to winterweathered skin with La Crème, armed with the Illuminating Complex EX to retexturise, moisturise and liberate skin from all that travel stress.
Tod’s shearling lined boots
La Mer The Revitalizing Hydrating Serum
Fear frostbite but still want to look chic? Tod’s shearling lined boots will keep your feet toasty during your globe-trotting adventures.
La Mer’s sea-powered Miracle Broth helps to activate, renew and repair the skin’s natural energy with the help of Lime Tea Concentrate. Within eight hours of use, skin is plumper, younger and moisturised—you’ll need it for the harsh winter temperatures!
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Travel Checklist
WINTER/ SUMMER
Documents Parmigiani Fleurier Twin windows allow the wearer to keep track of two time zones while an instant retrograde calendar announces the day of month.
Passport Boarding passes Converted currency Credit cards Visa Itinerary Copy of passport and other travel documents
Wardrobe Shirts or blouses Skirts or bottoms Underwear Pyjamas Jacket/Suit/Cardigan Swimsuit Socks
ghd V styler Jo Malone Rare Tea Collection
Deemed too precious to drink, Jo Malone captures some of the most iconic teas from around the world— suitable for any day, weather or while travelling.
Handy for straightening or curling one’s locks, the ghd V styler with a universal voltage, takes care of any of your mane issues anytime, anywhere.
Shoes or sandals Jewellery & accessories Belt Sunglasses Purse/bag Shawl/scarf
Beauty Toothbrush & toothpaste Soap & shampoo
Bobbi Brown Better Than Sleep Concealer Get rid of the jetlagged look with Bobbi Brown’s Instant Full Cover Concealer, set to give you a refreshed look instantly.
Facial wash, toner and moisturiser Hairbrush or comb Perfume or cologne Makeup kit Hair straightener/dryer
Technology International adaptor Phone & charger Camera & charger Power bank Earphones
Miscellaneous
Inflatable travel pillow Extra ziploc bags
TRAVEL | JET-SETTER
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE: SUMMER
NARS Aqua Glow Cushion Foundation
Fight dehydration, pollution and sun damage with NARS’ Triple-Force Anti-Pollution Complex and SPF23. The water-enriched foundation has a cooling sensation offering medium coverage and radiant finish.
Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses Nobody wants to be that person who squints in every holiday photo. Pop on a pair of these D&G shades and you’ll save your eyes and up your photo cred too.
Corum Admiral
An eye-catching timepiece bound to interest maritime enthusiasts, the Corum Admiral collection sees dials emblazoned with one nautical flag per hour.
Laneige Mini Pore Line Like its name, just a drop of the fast-acting Mini Pore Single-Drop Skin Relief soothes irritated skin, and keeps acne under control.
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Travel
Boldly Blue Fancy a getaway but don’t have the time to travel too far? Love the Mediterranean-Moroccan setting but not the travel time nor distance? Head over to the Four Seasons Resort in Langkawi with their refreshing new look courtesy of designer Bill Bensley’s masterful touch. A daring transformation has elevated the award-winning resort and tropical UNESCO hideaway to an indulgent and modern luxe getaway. With 48 acres of beachfront botanical gardens, it’s the tropical vacation of your dreams, all within easy access and without having to set foot outside of Malaysian soil. The calming new palette of blues that have replaced the signature earth tones of the Four Seasons Resort will wash away your everyday worries as you unwind amid the natural treasures of the Andaman Sea, limestone cliffs and lush rainforest. Nestled among the sweet fragrance of frangipani trees, the resort welcomes you with a Malay-style Welcome Pavilion complete with its own antique boat. Dark cobalt hues give way to softer shades of bright Azure blue, as guests travel onward to their rooms featuring bespoke artwork, cosy teak flooring and antique mirror inlays. The resort has 23 Villas and 68 Pavilions built in a modern eclectic style. Plus the three brand new Deluxe Family Beach Villas, that promises a truly luxurious and relaxing getaway, features your very own beach hammock, private outdoor plunge pool with whirlpool, large dining deck with daybed, a hammam-style bathtub, as well as an outdoor sunken shower. For those who prefer a little more outdoorsy vibe, the addition of a pier and floating jetty should definitely float your boat with easy access to water sports and a mangrove safari boat for guests of all ages.
The blue palette (seen below in the Deluxe Family Beach Villa) will have you feeling like you’re in a Mediterranean-Moroccan setting
Four Seasons Resort, Langkawi Jalan Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi T: 04-950 8888 W: fourseasons.com/langkawi
TRAVEL | INSIDER
Space Invaders Find out what are common space eaters when packing your bags, and solve your luggage woes with these handy packing pointers from Nivat Chantarachoti, general manager of Thai Airways for Malaysia and Brunei
BURNING PACKING QUESTIONS What should I pack in my carry-on? Depending on the duration of your journey, on long flights, you may to want to keep some light or warm clothing, medicines, and toiletries you may need during the flight in your carry-on. However, as per air safety regulation, all liquids must not exceed 100ml (3.4 oz) and must be placed in a clear, plastic
quart-sized bag with zip lock. Valuables such as jewellery, mobile phones, cameras, and laptop computers should not be checked-in and kept in your hand carry. If you are carrying a power bank with you, please ensure that it is kept in your carry-on only and each passenger is only allowed to carry up to two power banks with a max capacity of 32K mAh each.
Are there any packing secrets or tips to pack all my outfits in and still have space to spare? It is advisable to pack according to the purpose and duration of the journey. If you are on a holiday or a shopping spree, you may not need to carry so much and save some space for your shopping on the way back. But on a business trip, you would need to be
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Pack Knack
prepared with all the essentials such as formal suits for business meetings, a blazer for more casual dining, plus several pairs of shoes for business, sports, and casual activities. Bear in mind that the check-in baggage allowance on Thai Airways is 50kg for first class, 40kg for business class, and 30kg for economy class. However, the maximum weight of baggage should not exceed 32kg per piece.
“Only pack clothes that you need for the season and destination” malaysia tatler . october 2017
Braun Büffel
Longchamp
DVF
Tumi
Leave your hands free to take shots of your next great adventure, plus it is easy to carry, with easy access to your belongings.
FASHIONABLE: TOTE/ SHOULDER BAG
Form and function rolled into one, look good while fitting everything in this black hole of a bag.
Louis Vuitton
Bally
What are the usual packing mistakes that you see? Unlike frequent travellers, lessexperienced passengers tend to overpack. Often these travellers are not aware of their baggage allowance and would have to pay for excess baggage at check-in counters. Or sometimes the check-in luggage weighs more than the allowable 32kg and they have to repack at the airport. So my advice is, you should only pack clothes that you need. Also, people tend to not pack appropriate clothes for the season and destination. It is best if you check the weather forecast of your destination prior to the trip, and pack accordingly.
ADVENTUROUS: BACKPACK
LAIDBACK: DUFFEL
Simple but roomy enough to pile on your travel necessities, it is good for casual short trips.
Pedro
What items should I take extra precautions with while packing into my luggage? Fragile items should be packed and handled with care. If possible, it is advisable that items such as glass, ceramic, and porcelain be hand carried. We do have ‘fragile’ stickers and will handle these items with care, but if damaged, the airlines will only be liable according to their actual weight. In such cases, it is recommended that the passenger purchase additional insurance for the specific valuable item. If you wish to pack glass bottles such as wine or perfume in your checkin luggage, it is recommended that you wrap the bottle with bubble wrap and ensure the bottle is tightly sealed.
Packing might be a daunting task for some especially when it comes to choosing a bag style that best fits your travelling needs. Take your pick from these practical carriers that won’t fail you when it comes to style and goes the extra mile
GLOBE-TROTTER: ROLLER LUGGAGE BAG
NO-NONSENSE: BRIEFCASE
Good for when you’ve got a business meeting to attend. Also works as a sleek and chic laptop bag.
The mother of all travel bags, enables you to pack a chunk of your wardrobe with extra space to spare, plus handy for long hauls when you’re too tired to carry bags.
Rimowa
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Travel
Smooth as Silk—an Award Winning Flight Experience
Treat yourself to an in-flight experience like no other; feel like royalty with the airline that has conquered three categories in the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2017
Where can you find gourmet cuisine for an economical price, several thousand feet up in the clouds, and a lounge spa service that transports you straight into the hands of a Thai masseuse? With Thai Airways, of course. Treat yourself to an airplane experience like no other when you fly with the Thai carrier—the airline experts that will always ensure your travels are smoother than silk. Winner of the prestigious World’s Best Economy Class, World’s Best Airline Lounge Spa, and Best Economy Class Onboard Catering at the Skytrax 2017 World Airline Awards Ceremony, Thai Airways
is now more than ready to welcome you on your next journey through the skies. Sore muscles from heaving your luggage around? Let them help you unwind with their three-time awardwinning lounge spa service before you jet off to your destination. Even flying economy no longer has to mean less than luxurious travels. Thai Airways has perfected the art of travelling lux at an affordable price tag. From pre-boarding to post-flight, you can rest easy knowing you’re flying with an airline you can entrust for your every need.
THAI AIRWAYS INTERNATIONAL Suite 30.01-30.03, Wisma Goldhill, 67 Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur T: 03-2034 6999 W: thaiairways.com.my
LIFE | CARS
On the Road With the Outlander After three months with the Mitsubishi Outlander, Daween Maan learns that some cars take time to grow on you, and become hard to let go when they do
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ooking back, it’s hard to think of any automotive review I have ever written and consider them a ‘proper review.’ One can review a movie because you watch it from start to end; you can review food, because you can chart its course from ingredient to belly; but to call an impression gained from driving a vehicle for only a few days if not hours—instead of the many years one actually owns a car—a review hardly feels like a fair comparison. So after three months with the Mitsubishi Outlander, driving it daily, I can probably say this is the first ‘real’ review I’ve done. My first taste of the Mitsubishi Outlander came when it was released in the first quarter
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of last year. Back then it was the All-New Outlander, and I got to experience a fair amount driving it from Kuala Lumpur to Johor and back over a couple of days. Back then I thought it was a solid vehicle from Mitsubishi as they looked to push further into the Crossover SUV market. And with the 2017 model that I had this year, I can wholeheartedly say my opinion hasn’t changed. The seven-seater Outlander is available in three basic colours: Metallic Red, Pearl White and Metallic Grey, and the car looks more sleek than imposing, having an understated chrome grille, slim LED headlamps and completed with 18-inch dual-toned alloy wheels. Its looks might not appeal to everyone at first glance but it will surely grow on you. malaysia tatler . october 2017
IMAGES: SHAFFIQ FARHAN; MITSUBISHI
NOT OUTLANDISH The Mitsubishi Outlander is great for a city drive, and even for out-of-town rides
SLEEK FREAK The spacious interiors of the Mitsubishi Outlander is pleasing to the eye as well as easily managed
The interior is fitted with leather seats and all the tech we’ve come to expect in our cars: touchscreen centre console, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, voice activation and sunroof. All that while delivering adequate legroom and comfort in any of its seats. It is when being driven and used like an SUV that the Outlander proves to be best, as the 2.4 litre, 4WD vehicle drives like a beauty—with the 4WD settings coming in three modes: Eco, Auto and Lock. Flooring the gas pedal receives a smooth response as the continuously variable transmission (CVT) roars the car to life and sends the speedometer on a fairly quick climb. The Outlander hits 160km/h with ease and, you can accelerate up to 180km/h without worrying about pushing it too far. The steering is incredibly light and responsive, ensuring proper control at all times. Also for an SUV of its size, the Outlander possesses an incredible turn radius that can put some German sedans to shame. From the driver’s seat, every aspect of the infotainment system is easily controlled and managed from the steering as well as the touchscreen, which in all honesty sounds
like a redundantly obvious observation, but very few carmakers actually pay attention to the little details like being able to control the music synced from my phone via bluetooth straight from the steering wheel, so Mitsubishi deserves credit for its attention to the little things. Also worth the credit is the Outlander’s audio system which, despite not being a big brand tie-in, does an exemplary job and certainly pleased this audiophile. Given that the Outlander is more suited as a family car, Mitsubishi has gone the extra mile with safety. Child seat anchors are present on all seats but the real life savers are the seven airbags positioned all over the car. In terms of space, Mitsubishi claims the Outlander performs the best in its class, and in terms of real life usage, you can easily fit a single mattress into the rear with both seats folded if you ever wanted to go camping without a tent. Perhaps the biggest compliment I can give the Mitsubishi Outlander is that after three months, I was reluctant to part with it. While it lacks the glamour of an Italian car, the stature of a German vehicle and the reputation of some of its Japanese rivals, the Outlander manages to create a bond with its driver through sheer simplicity and all round good performance, and that’s something very few carmakers are able to do.
CROSS OVER
Mitsubishi’s answer to the SUV crossover segment of the market seems to be a steady steed malaysia tatler . october 2017
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LIFE | DESIGN
Tech And Tact
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f you compare the boxy and dated contrivances of yesteryear that served as our older generation’s televisions, us 21st-century viewers are exceedingly spoiled with new flat screens and high-definition displays that arguably, display colours and scenes that can be better than reality at times. Evolving far from its cathode ray tube days, many years ago, the TV has now become a nifty and smart piece of furniture as common as the dinner table, although far more worshipped, we would imagine. TV screens have gradually gotten bigger, but to balance the synchronicity between home products and living spaces, the practicality and aesthetics need to result in a wonderful work of art. Enter the beautiful form of Sony’s Bravia A1 OLED TV. The brand definitely got the cue from decades ago— avoiding bulky contraptions—by utilising its One Slate concept, an approach that condenses a given product into a single slate; furnishing the TV with a natural elegance for users to experience, and for it to blend seamlessly within the home space. The Bravia A1 OLED TV carries proprietary imagery technologies like 4K
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HDR and Triluminos Display, which all accentuate exceptional picture quality. However, the video and audio quality are just part of the entire perfect package... Minimalism is a key element in the newly launched TV’s design, but Sony aims to let the viewer experience something apart from its standalone visual appeal. This was the basic idea towards designing the TV, where it encompasses the OLED display technology that carries a variety of different functions within the screen itself, eliminating the need for speakers, a bezel or a stand, allowing for optimum spatial harmony. The Sony Bravia A1 OLED TV is available in two versions: the X93E Series, which is a spectacular mix of 4K HDR visuals, exceptional sound plus geometric pattern designs that reflect on walls and tiles, while the X85E Series on the other hand, features incredible realism in picture quality and employs warm silver colours—a flawless counterpart to wooden racks and flooring. As far as technology-meets-aesthetic endeavours are concerned, Sony proves that televisions are more than just viewing devices, but part of your home as a whole, fulfilling the ideal interior space ecosystem. @ malaysia tatler . october 2017
WORDS: KATHLYN D’SOUZA; IMAGES: SONY
Televisions have indeed come a long way since the cathode ray tube era, and now proves to be a necessary addition to your modern interiors
DESIGN
| LIFE
ORGANIC OUTLINES We speak to Michael Su Kuo Yen, director and partner at KSKA Arkitek Sdn Bhd, who was also responsible for the architecture and design behind Alya’s latest hero, Senada Kuala Lumpur
AU NATURAL Senada Residences takes its cue from the movement of water and the greenery surrounding it
Tell us more about Senada Kuala Lumpur. What is the overall design concept and what inspired it? Senada Kuala Lumpur is a development which took a lot of time and detailed planning since the planning stage of Alya Kuala Lumpur. We wanted it to be the first major signature development based on its expansive natural environment. Senada is a
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development comprising two towers of urban resort suites, an office tower and a four-storey retail lifestyle podium. The design concept is derived from its immediate and regional context as a direct extension of the TPC KL golf course which highlights the contrast between natural and man-made forms, drawing inspiration from shelf mushrooms that grow on the trunks of the trees in Malaysian forests. The interplay of reflective and non-reflective glass to the facade simulate the reflections of water under the evening sunlight. What are the unique features of this property that would excite prospective homeowners? The towers are connected at Level 4, by a two-acre Sky Park Garden which houses more than 22 facilities, and is a shared
landscape amenity composed of curvilinear forms reminiscent of the soft shapes found on the adjacent golf course, with a swimming pool seamlessly integrated into a water feature and a series of active and passive gardens. The fitness clubs for the residential tower are both located on this level, encouraging the shared use of the skypark’s system of nature trails. Another unique design feature that Senada Residences offers is the layout option of having a balcony, or not. For those who enjoy the natural breeze, they have the option of the units with balcony, but those who prefer to maximise their internal space, can then opt for the full-height, smooth-glass-wall design which also allows for natural sunlight and still provides a spectacular view of the golf course.
With it being located within the green lung of the city, is eco living going to be a big proponent at Senada Residences? Embracing green eco living in Senada is a key design consideration. With its vast surrounding of manmade plus natural green spaces, the design aims to recreate the landscape concept of a forest in an urban setting, using a design language that follows closely in line with the building’s architectural design form.
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Senada Residences, Tower B is now unveiled and the show unit is available for viewing at The International Gallery, Alya Kuala Lumpur. For more information, call 03-7843 9898 or visit alya.com.my/senada.
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LIFE | WELLBEING
Your breast friends deserve the same love and care as every other part of you. Check yourself out with Wacoal’s handy tips in conjunction with their Pink Ribbon Campaign this month
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WORDS: PRIYANKA RAMCHANDANI; IMAGES: WACOAL
Are You in the Pink?
Keeping in good health is of utmost importance, and supporting those who are not can make a remarkable difference
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inding the perfect bra fit can sometimes be incredibly challenging. More often than not, we think we know our cup and band size, but this does not necessarily mean we are wearing our bra the ‘right’ way. We sometimes forget about the importance of having a good posture and the benefits that come with it; our mind may be disconnected from our body and by the time we realise, it may be too late. Being mindful and aware is crucial, especially when time is of the essence, which tends to be the case when it comes to the big ‘C’—the dreaded word that we can never be prepared to hear. We are responsible for protecting ourselves. Wearing your bra the right way is the first step to ensuring good support for your back bone and balancing the weight equally across your shoulders. Having a good posture will allow you to strengthen your muscles for firm alignment, and prevent excessive stress on the joints of the spine. Did you know that the way we slip on our bra, and fit our breasts into each cup determines how comfortable we will be throughout the day? And this will naturally enhance our ability to exude confidence regardless of our age, shape and size of our body and breasts. Scooping out excess flesh of the breast from underneath the armpit and ensuring your breasts fall nicely into each cup can better accentuate your cleavage for a malaysia tatler . october 2017
more flattering body contour. Wacoal shares with us the hand-touch technique and encourages women to examine themselves a week after their periods end. It is a simple thing and can be easily done in the shower. Firstly, keep your fingers flat and in a circular motion, press the various areas of your breasts. Then cover the entire breast and sweep in from your armpit towards your chest. Finally, look out for anything unusual such as a lump, or thickening of the skin and any discharge or discolouration of the nipples. Making this part of your monthly routine may help you with early detection. At the heart of Wacoal’s Pink Ribbon Campaign is genuine care for those who have suffered from or been affected by breast cancer. Wacoal’s Remamma Bra and Prosthesis gives all women who have gone through a mastectomy the chance to feel comfortable in their original, pre-mastectomy silhouette, giving them just what they need to uplift their spirits and remain positive during this difficult phase. Beauty advisors at Wacoal are committed to helping women improve their lifestyles in light of pink day, while also driving awareness on early detection and how it can be curable if treated in a timely manner.
RESTORING THE QUALITY OF LIFE Remamma is uniquely designed for women to feel good and be confident in their own body following a mastectomy
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From the Heart Leica Camera Asia Pacific managing director Sunil Kaul shares with Grace Ma how the brand has been quietly clicking behind the scenes to bring hope to slum communities in Manila
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unil kaul, managing director of Leica Camera Asia Pacific, has only one guiding principle when it comes to doing good: support those who know best what is happening on the ground. With this in mind, he leverages on the German manufacturer of premium cameras’ strength by providing equipment and expertise to produce soul-stirring photography that can move the hearts of Leica’s well-heeled customers to contribute to a meaningful cause. “As a business, we have responsibilities to our employees and shareholders. We may not be able to give money directly but we can find ways in our capacity to generate funds for a charity,” says Sunil. “We can provide an event space, print pictures, provide the equipment and send photographers to take the best pictures, and the money can be raised through the purchase of prints.” In June, Leica coincided the opening of its Leica Galerie Singapore at The Fullerton Hotel with the launch of Mysterious Happiness, a thought-provoking 200-page documentary book of slum dwellers living in the Metro Manila
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area of the Philippines, such as the Happyland, Aroma and Smokey Mountains dumpsites. All proceeds from the sale of the coffee-table book, which was first launched in Manila in April, will go to the ANAK-TnK Foundation, a Filipino non-profit organisation that has helped more than 2,800 street kids since it started in 1998. Sunil targets to raise $35,000 through sales of Mysterious Happiness at Leica Galerie and the company’s online store for the foundation’s rehabilitation programmes, which reaches out to children with special needs, those living in the streets and the slums, as well as those scavenging for a living by providing them with an education and improving their current living conditions. This is the third fundraiser Leica has done for the foundation, after two previous photo exhibitions, with the company covering the costs of items such as the logistics and the printing of photographs, as well as the travel expenses and equipment for local photojournalist Mathias Heng and Manilabased Swedish-born photographer Anna Bärlund, to capture life in Manila’s slum communities. From stark black-and-white portraits to the beaming faces of playing children, the result is a powerful visual narrative coupled with real-life stories from Father Matthieu Dauchez, the executive director of ANAK-TnK Foundation, on how malaysia tatler . october 2017
IMAGES: LEICA, MATHIAS HENG AND ANNA BÄRLUND
HEARTFELT GESTURES These black-and-white portraits of the people living in Manila’s Happyland slum are captured by Swedish-born photographer Anna Bärlund for the coffee-table book Mysterious Happiness, now sold by Leica to raise funds for Filipino charity ANAK-TnK Foundation. She says, “The heart gesture is a call to feel the sincerity and love in everyone’s heart and appreciate the beauty that unites us”
PHILANTHROPY | LIFE
“I want people to be aware that even though those in the slums may suffer from poor living conditions, there’s so much to learn from their open and friendly nature” happiness can be found even in the hardest of circumstances. “The beautiful pictures function as a bridge in connecting people to the situation hhere,” says Father Matthieu, w who has worked with the foundation since the very bbeginning. “We are thankful for Leica’s contribution not only materially, but also by sending individuals such as Mathias and Anna to the field to meet the people in order to make an impact.” Mathias, who has covered poverty and conflict-inflicted regions for international ppublications such as The Washington Post and Oxfam America, and is also a photography instructor BEHIND at Leica Akademie, says, “I want people to THE LENS be aware that even though those in the slums Leica Camera Asia Pacific may suffer from poor living conditions, managing there’s so much to learn from their open and director Sunil friendly nature. Even though they have less, Kaul believes they complain less and can be as happy in using as any of us.” the brand’s strengths in Sunil first came to know of the ANAK-TnK photography Foundation in 2013 through his good to be an friend, Alexis de Laporte, who was then instrument of change for slum Jaeger-LeCoultre’s regional managing director for Southeast Asia and Australia. During a communities in Manila personal visit to the slum communities at his malaysia tatler . october 2017
own expense—something he still does at least once a year—Sunil saw children living in squalid slum conditions, at risk not only from substance abuse and prostitution, but also disease and malnutrition. Deeply moved, he set the camera gears in motion and the first fundraising photo exhibition, Left Behind, was organised in February 2014 by Leica and Jaeger-LeCoultre, followed by a second one, Left Behind II, by Leica last March. Both exhibitions sold prints taken by Mathias of Manila’s abandoned street children. Sunil eschews bringing hordes of volunteers from his company over as he feels it is insensitive to the children’s feelings. He says emphatically, “These children are aged between seven and 15 years old. You can’t be seen cleaning and teaching one day, and gone the next. The constant change of faces is not good for them and they will think we are treating them like animals in a zoo. So we focus more on making sure every cent raised goes to support the local volunteers taking care of the children on a regular basis, such as buying books for the children’s education and building drainage systems.” He adds, “Charity begins at home. We use whatever we have, such as our customer base and tools, to raise funds for a good cause. We also encourage local artists to showcase their skills at our gallery with the condition that they participate in a charity project by donating prints for sale to help the children.”
SIMPLE JOYS Life may be hard, but the children living in the Tondo slum area in Manila have found ways to learn, laugh and play as intensely as any other kids in this image by Singapore photojournalist Mathias Heng
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LIFE | EXPRESSIONS
Strength of a Man
T
he only thing predictable about life is its unpredictability.” I remember so vividly the night I received a phone call from my younger sister Lydia. I could sense the deep urgency and desperation in her tone. She uttered the words that changed our family’s life forever. “It’s dad… He’s diagnosed with liver cancer.” Emeritus Professor Dr John Kwan was a well-respected academician. A man of integrity and excellence, he spent more than 40 years in higher education, teaching medical sciences. Dad took good care of his health—he never drank any alcohol nor had he ever lit a cigarette in his life. He was asleep by 10pm even on weekends! Yet it would be foolish of me to think that just because dad conformed to a healthy lifestyle, that he was free from all forms of disease and suffering. There is such a broad spectrum of forces influencing our wellbeing. Genetics and hereditary factors can play a role; dietary habits such as high sugar or salt consumption can lead to various health complications. Plus, environmental and situational factors that influence our cortisol levels also affect our body and mental health. My dad slowly began to lose the basic functions of his body, becoming unable to even walk up and down the stairs at home by himself. As painful as this was to watch, I couldn’t help but to relate to the many people I’ve seen struggling to catch a breath after climbing a few flights of stairs. It almost seems that as we advance in technology, we are losing our basic physical human functions. The daunting thought is that although machinery parts are easily replaced when it malfunctions, we cannot say the same when our body and organs start breaking down. As my dad’s condition deteriorated over the months, it spurred me on further to advocate the pursuit of health and fitness to the people around me, especially to my family and clients. When I cofounded Revelation Republic four years ago with Jonathan Wong
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and Norman Wong, we had one common goal. That goal was to inspire others to lead a healthy alternative lifestyle. One which recognises that investing time and resources into your health and fitness with a purposeful pursuit has tremendous benefits. I have personally witnessed countless of transformations at Revelation Republic. The benefits from our strength and conditioning training includes an increase in lean muscle mass, functional strength and an improvement of cardiovascular health and lung capacity. One of the main pillars of our training methodology is physical transformation. The team at Revelation Republic put years of our own experience to help our clients from all walks of life achieve their fitness goals. Although I lost my dad eight months after his diagnosis with cancer, I remain steadfast to the legacy that he has left for me. He was a huge contributor to Revelation Republic, giving me the support that I needed to start in the industry. I now train my clients with an even clearer purpose, believing that prevention is better than cure. A stronger athlete is a better athlete. A stronger mind and body is harder to break down compared to a weaker one. On a personal level, although my schedule is getting busier, I try to get at least four or five training sessions done in a week. If I can’t train in the gym, I’ll do my exercising at home. The key is to be consistent. It’s much harder to regain momentum once you’re idle. I take dietary and nutrition factors on a more serious note now, recognising that no matter how fast you can run, you can never outrun a bad diet, especially as you grow older! My father lived an honourable and courageous life right till the end. He taught me to work hard and that hard work reaps rewards. He also taught me to be faithful, and I learned over the years that faithfulness is a true mark of the strength of a man.” Is there a parallel to your own story you would like to share with us? Email your thoughts about Andrew’s expression at: myedit@ edipressemedia.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: SHAFFIQ FARHAN
Helping others build a healthy lifestyle now takes on a bigger meaning for Andrew Kwan, after the unfortunate passing of his father, which motivated him to do more for others
malaysia tatler . october 2017
BUILT TO HELP Together with fellow cofounders, Andrew Kwan wants to help others lead a healthy lifestyle through Revelation Republic
“It would be foolish of me to think that just because dad conformed to a healthy lifestyle, that he was free from all forms of disease and suffering�
malaysia tatler . october 2017
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GEN T SPOTLIGHT
1 FAVOURITE MOTIVATIONAL QUOTE “Never Give Up.” Whether you like him or not, Donald Trump became president despite the many people who were telling him to give up.
3 WORK-LIFE
2 PRODUCTIVITY
BALANCE
SECRETS
You’re not working optimally when you don’t have balance— you need it. People talk about working 40 hours a week and 72 hours being free (if you exclude weekends). However, it should be work 62 hours a week, enjoy 50 hours and get 58 hours of sleep.
Enjoying myself to the fullest, by eating good food, socialising with others and travelling—it energises me to give work a 100 per cent. And while most people forget about rest, I ensure I get my daily eight hours of sleep.
S U N I L N A DEV R AJADUR AI The cofounder of MTC Asset Management is an ambitious and talented young man that believes in social capitalism and embodies an entrepreneurial spirit
MAKE AS MUCH MONEY AS YOU CAN, AND ENJOY IT. IT CAN BE DONE IF YOU INVEST WITH THE RIGHT STRATEGY AND PEOPLE. SOME PEOPLE JUST SAVE AND NEVER LEARN HOW TO MAKE MONEY, AND WHEN THEY ARE 50 THEY LOSE IT, AND REGRET NEVER HAVING ENJOYED THEIR YOUTH.
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4 PROFESSIONALLY I LOOK UP TO… Magic Johnson. He was the most dominant person in basketball, but more than that, he was one of the most entertaining sports icons in the world during his time. And let’s not forget, he is also battling AIDS.
Generation T are young individuals that Malaysia Tatler considers to be the brightest connectors, creative visionaries and influential innovators who are transforming Malaysia. malaysia tatler . october 2017