KL American March 2016 Publication

PP 4353/05/2013 (033269)

March2016

KL

american

A Publication of the American Association of Malaysia KL American March 2016

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Extra care comes as standard The support you need to make relocating more successful for the whole family.

Go knowing

www.crownrelo.com/malaysia 2

KL American March 2016

Crown’s service offerings include: • • • • • •

International & Domestic Shipments Transit Insurance Immigration & Legalization School Search Settling-in Services Intercultural Support

Tel: +60 3 5636 9166 kualalumpur@crownrelo.com

Contents AAM March 2016 Advertisers Index Advertisers

(A-Z)

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Page

Asian Tigers Transpo

Back Cover

Brolly

p.15

Crown Relocations

Inside Front Cover

Eastern Carpets

p.17

The Expat

p.24

RSDHC

p.26

SIME DARBY

Inside Back Cover

Tropicana Medical Centre

p.14

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President’s Message

2016/2017 Board of Directors

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6 7-8

9

9

Membership

Community Services

Weekly/Monthly Activities

10 & 11

February Activities

13

No Black Tie Similarity

18-22

17

24 25

Memories

AAM Messages

AAM Community Bulletin Board

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AAM Calendar / March

18 Photo by Randee Duncan

KL American March 2016

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President’s Message I want to thank everyone who came out to our AGM and Security talk which was held at the U.S. Ambassador’s residence in February. Not only did we vote in the new Board of Directors for 2016/2017, we also completed changes to our Constitution and the way the Board is going to be structured in the future. The Board felt it was necessary to make some changes to the Constitution to stay relevant with the economic times we currently find ourselves in.

If you were not in attendance at the AGM and would like more information about the changes we have made, please do not hesitate to contact me at president.aam@ gmail.com and I will do my best to answer your questions or provide you with more information.

Now that we have held our AGM and completed our election, I want to thank Ann Blacklock for remaining in her role as Vice President. We have a new Treasurer, Leisa Puri and a new Secretary, Brenda Miller.

Thank you to both of these ladies for stepping up and being willing to join our new Board. I would also like to thank Wendy Frazer for continuing as our trusty Membership Director and Jamie Abbott as our Major Events Director. It’s going to be a great year ahead and a lot of fun.

Speaking of fun, next month the AAM will be hosting a fun party. This year we are taking what used to be our “Annual Ball” and making it a more relaxed theme - we are calling it RETRO NIGHT. You are still more than welcome to come in your formal attire but don’t be surprised that you may see poodle skirts and disco shirts, white suits and big hair, mullets and ponytails. We hope that you make plans to join us for a FUNTASTIC evening. Tickets are on sale now and you can get yours by contacting klamerican.info@gmail.com.

As always, I thank our members for their continued support of the AAM.

Board of Directors President Peggy Uptigrove President.aam@gmail.com Vice President Ann Blacklock FirstVP.aam@gmail.com Secretary Brenda Miller Secretary1.aam@gmail.com Treasurer Lesia Puri Treasurer.aam@gmail.com Publications Director VACANT Editor.KLAmerican@gmail.com Major Events Director Jamie Abbott Majoreventsdir.aam@gmail.com Membership Director Wendy Frazer Membershipdirector.aam@gmail.com

Peggy Uptigrove President

Liaison Directors American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce Stephanie Chua

Corporate Partners For 2015

Event Sponsors 2016

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KL American March 2016

ISKL Hilda Alposilva US Embassy Alyssa Calabrese Kelli Baker

Editorial

KL

American Magazine Team

Editor VACANT Photo Editors Judy Pescio Randee Duncan Contributors Debz Rafferty

2016/2017 Board of Directors President My name is Peggy Uptigrove and I have been married to my boyfriend for 25+ years. We have two daughters, Chantel, who is 22 and Jenna who is just about 21 (help me!). We are all originally from Calgary, Canada and moved to The Woodlands, Texas when our girls were little. After living there for 14 years, Stan accepted an overseas assignment to Kuala Lumpur.

That was in August of 2014. It was difficult to leave our girls behind but after a couple of years, everyone has found his or her groove and is doing well. I started serving on the AAM Board in the capacity of Membership Director about 6 months after moving here and then quickly moved in to the position of Second Vice President. With the departure of our past President, I stepped into the role of President and am now serving my second (and last) term. I enjoy golfing (need lessons!), reading, getting together with friends and I really enjoying travelling.

Vice President My name is Ann Blacklock and I have lived in KL a little over 3 years. My husband Jon and I moved here from Houston, Texas. We have two children, Jon David 23 and Ben 22 years old.

We lived in Katy for 13 years, raising our children and have lived all over the place prior to that.

I enjoy golfing, swimming, and hanging out with girlfriends. AND LSU!

Editorial Support Peggy Uptigrove Designer Yap Wai Kuan Advertising Sales Tel: (03) 2161-9008 / 9009 Printer Seng Hoe Printing Process 33, Jalan Hang Tuah 2 Taman Salak Selatan 57100 Kuala Lumpur Tel/Fax: (03) 8941-7603 Publisher American Association of Malaysia The KLAmerican is published 10 times per year. The deadline for inclusion is at least six weeks prior to publication, which is the 1st of the month.

Advertising for non-profit organizations is free-of-charge on a space-available basis.

The magazine staff reserves the right to edit copy for clarity, brevity, and accuracy.

Information on AAM members is not to be used commercially.

Reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission, is strictly prohibited.

Treasurer My name is Leisa Puri and my husband, Aditya, and our son Arjun have been living in KL for the past 4+ years. Malaysia is our first expat experience, having spent the prior 15 years living in Boston, MA. Prior to moving to KL, I worked in accounting/finance for nearly 20 years. Now that I am no longer in the workforce, I have plenty of time to explore other interests such as cooking, travel, school PTA, volunteering with refugees, learning Mahjong (with the AAM!) and reading. Any spare time is spent tending the rest of the Puri household, which includes 2 dogs and 4 cats.

Secretary My name is Brenda Miller. I have been married to my best friend, Kevin for nearly 27 adventurous years. Our adventures include 3 married children (thus, making us proud parents of 6); we have been blessed with 2 granddaughters and are expecting our 3rd granddaughter in May. Kevin and I left the United States two years ago to begin our adventure in KL; though my husband has experienced success in his work life, it is by far the people we have met that will be our greatest reward. My hobbies include, people, people, people, oh and HALLMARK movies; what can I say, I LOVE THEM! I look forward to serving AAM in the role of Secretary; let the adventures continue!

Major Events Director My name is Jamie Abbott and I moved to KL last August with my husband, Doug, and three children (Anna 11, Ashlynn 11 and Anderson 8). We are originally from Mississippi, USA however we moved away in 2007 and have lived in Bahrain and India before moving to Malaysia. I have served in many roles in expat organizations including Co-President of American Women’s Club Mumbai, Vice President American Women’s Association Bahrain and President American Women’s Association Bahrain. I am excited to work with the American Association of Malaysia and enjoy all it has to offer. In my free time I enjoy playing tennis, traveling and learning about new cultures.

Membership Director I am Wendy Frazer and my husband and I have lived in Kuala Lumpur for 2 years. Prior to moving here, we lived in Norway. Before beginning our expat adventures, I worked as a Critical Care Nurse in Alaska, where we raised 3 children into successful young adults.

American Association of Malaysia Unit 19-1, 19th Floor, Tower B The Troika, 19 Persiaran KLCC 50450 Kuala Lumpur GPS Coordinates: N3° 9’ 28.899” E101° 42’ 58.217”

Tel: (03) 2161-9008 / 9009 Fax: (03) 2181-7005 E-mail: klamerican.info@gmail.com Website: www.klamerican.com

OFFICE HOURS Monday - Thursday: 9 a.m - 4 p.m.

Closed 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. workdays for lunch Closed Friday - Sunday and public holidays

KL American March 2016

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Membership

Hello AAM Members! The Year of the Fire Monkey is upon us! I would like to thank all the members for their continued support of our organization. The spirit of the AAM is about community and sharing and as we roll into spring, please take note of the many enjoyable activities we have to offer. Join us for our First Friday coffees as we will be exploring new places. Plan to bring a friend or neighbor!! As always, we welcome any fresh ideas for activities.

Wendy Frazer Membership Director

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KL American March 2016

“Selamat Datang ke AAM!� to our new members for January: Shaw, Amy & Chris Way, Molly & Matt Wood, Jemma & Jeff

Community Services Members, Here is something to feel really good about with regards to our Community Giving for 2015. In 2015, we donated to our local Malaysian community a total of RM137,980.75. We wanted to provide our members with a complete list of where this money has gone and to give you a list of the local charities we helped this past year and the ones that we will continue to support in the coming year. I cannot tell you how good it feels to be able to give back to those in need and not just in the monetary way but we are also fostering a relationship with a lot of these charities and continuing to support them throughout the year.

We are doing more facility visits to see what their immediate needs are and how can we help them. We are taking children on fun outings, like Jump Street, that normally wouldn’t have the opportunity to do so. We are having lunches at their volunteer run restaurants, and just trying to get more involved with our charities on an on-going basis. We know how much the volunteers at these charities appreciate our help but more than that they appreciate the friendships that are forming and the trust that is growing. If you want to be more involved with our charities, please call me or email me and we can certainly get you plugged in to a charity that will touch your heart.

Peggy Uptigrove President

The following is a list of charities we have supported throughout 2015 and the donation amount we have given to each of them. A large number of the charities listed below also attend our annual Christmas Bazaar where they pay no entry fee for their tables and keep 100% of the profits they make for the day selling items they have produced.

Some of these charities made over RM9,000 on the day of our Bazaar so you can see how important our Annual Christmas Charity Bazaar is to the local Malaysian community.

Bethany Home RM7,000 Cleft Lip/Palate Association of Malaysia

RM7,000

Dignity for Children RM7,500 eHomemakers RM7,000 Giving Tree RM1,425 Home For Peace (Education Fund)

RM7,000

Lighthouse Childrens Welfare Home

RM864

Little Sisters of the Poor

RM1,255

National Cancer Society (Pink October Event)

RM39,940.75

Open Hands Fellowship RM7,000 Good Shepherd RM12,550 RC Deaf Missions Malaysia

RM7,000

Rumah Hope RM7,500 Shelter Home For Children

RM7,000

United Learning Center RM7,000 Breast Cancer Welfare Association

RM1,500

Tanma Federation RM2,426 Chin Refugee RM7,000 Grand Total for 2015 RM137,960.75 KL American March 2016

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Community Services One of the charities we had the privilege to assist this past year was the Tanma Federation.

This is an organization that helps refugee families that arrive in Malaysia providing them with any immediate needs they have by way of food and shelter. The following is a letter we received from them expressing their thanks in our participation to their cause.

Thanks to you, your generosity and kindness, Tanma has received 400kg of rice, 37L of oil, 42 packs of milk powders, 30 packs of diapers, toys, hygienic items, clothes and various useful donations. In addition, a total amount of RM2578 has been collected through our fundraising page.

During our Christmas event on 19 December2015, 31 women and their families from MangTha, Kaoprise and CWO each received a hamper consisting of rice, oil, shampoo, diapers and milk powder. Additional funds received during our Christmas event have been distributed to the women from the three groups.

Personally and on behalf of the women leaders from Kaoprise, CWO and MangTha, thank you very much for your kindness, your priceless support and help with the refugee women and families, and the refugee communities.

Helene

These ladies are posing beside the supplies that the AAM generously donated to the Tanma Federation after they put out the call for help. Way to go AAM! 8

KL American March 2016

Weekly Activities All activities are at the AAM Villa @ The Troika unless noted.

MONDAY

Mahjong 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Members FREE / Non-Members RM10 donation (The first two visits are complimentary.)

Get rid of those Monday blues by playing a lively game of mahjong.

We’ll shuffle the tiles, make ‘pungs’ and ‘kongs’, and enjoy the afternoon.

Beginners are welcome. Please email mahjong Coordinator, Randee at brduncn@gmail.com to confirm.

WEDNESDAY

Stitching Friends 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Members FREE / Non-Members RM10 donation (The first two visits are complimentary.)

New and seasoned sewing enthusiasts work together to share their love of the stitching arts. We meet at the AAM Villa @ The Troika. Please contact Coordinator, Jeanie Kennedy at jhkennedyuk@yahoo.co.uk for details. Please be sure to put “Stitching Friends” in the subject line.

Monthly Activities Tuesday, 1 March 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

St. Francis Xavier Home for the Elderly Taman Sri Bahtera, Batu Lima Cheras Tel: (03) 9131-1464

Bingo with Little Sisters of the Poor

Join our monthly bingo game to help spread the joy at this home for the elderly! We will bring prizes for the winners. The bingo morning is one of the highlights of the month for the residents.

Please email klamerican.info@gmail.com if you can join us or would like more information.

When: Wednesday, 2 March 6:00 p.m. onwards

Gentlemen’s Night Out

Where: Taps Beer Bar, One Residency, 1 Jalan Nagasari

For many of us getting out and socializing with other men folk can be difficult, with working all week and weekends reserved for family. Well, no more! There will be a ‘Gentlemen’s Night Out’ every first Wednesday of the month in the popular Changkat Bukit Bintang area. The format is entirely informal with the chance to sample some craft beers and great grub - and plenty of scope to move onto play some pool, darts or even just talk on manly matters!

Registration: None required, just show up bringing cash and conviviality

Calling all Gentlemen!

See you there! Stan RSVP: Useful but not needed. Email: drstanbrook@hotmail.com Friday, 4 March 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Café de Paris Connection Level of Pavilion Shopping Mall Cost: Individual

First Friday

Bonjour! Café de Paris is an authentic, contemporary French café in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It is the chosen location for our March First Friday gathering. Arriving in Kuala Lumpur can be overwhelming in the beginning but the AAM is here to help. First Friday is a social gathering designed especially for newly arrived expats. Drop by for a morning croissant, pain au chocolat, omelet, or something sweeter to get you through your day. Sit back and relax on the sunny outdoor terrace and enjoy a fabulous French coffee prepared by one of Malaysia’s finest Baristas while meeting new friends or catching up with some old friends.

RSVP: klamerican.info@gmail.com by Tuesday, 1 March (not required but would be nice to know how many to expect).

KL American March 2016

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March Activities

Batik Workshop Tuesday, 1 March 9:30 – 11:30a.m.

AAM Villa – 19th Floor,Tower B, The Troika Cost: Members RM80 / Non Members RM106 Join us as we host a Batik workshop that will teach us the techniques behind the artistry of Batik chanting.

Create your very own beautiful Batik paintings which will be ready for you to take home by the end of the class.

Finished paintings are 50cm x 34cm. The price for the class is inclusive of all materials needed. The instructor will have the material washed, drawn out and ready for us to let our creativity flow. Each participant will have the same design (flowers) but the finished product for each of us will be completely different based on the colors you choose and how you blend them together. After we have completed the first painting, the instructor will then show us how to “chant” our own material and we can paint this one as well.

If, at the end of the class you wish to purchase any of the tools needed to create more beautiful works of art at home, the instructor will bring everything you need to carry on with your new found talent.

RSVP: klamerican.info@gmail.com by Thursday, 25 February

Spring Rug Auction Friday, 4 March 6:30pm – Midnight Hotel Istana / Safir Room Cost: Members RM30 / Non-Members RM45

The Annual Spring Rug Auction is being jointly hosted by the Canadian Association of Malaysia and the American Association of Malaysia. Always a great time, this evening is full of auction action and surprises as our friends from Eastern Carpets are back in town with all their beautiful carpets, sense of humor and witty jokes.

RSVP: klamerican.info@gmail.com by Wednesday, 2 March

Carey Island Day Tour Wednesday, 9 March 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (approx. return time) Pick up / drop off at side entrance of Inter Continental Hotel Cost: Members RM218 / NonMembers RM244

A cultural event not to be missed. This is the best time to visit the Orang Asli for their New Year, Hari Moyang, celebration. This day trip is 1.5 hours by bus directly to Carey Island to visit the “Mah Meri” tribe.

The Mah Meri are known for their wood carving and “Nipah” frond weaving into intricate designs.

This day tour is led by an English speaking guide. On this tour, we will watch dancers perform their traditional dance, Tarian Sewang, accompanied by a small group of musicians. The male dancers will wear their ceremonial masks and adorn clothes made from “Terap” tree bark and beautiful palm woven skirts.

The price includes coach transfer, fresh coconuts for drinking and lunch. Our tour guide will also make cash donations on our behalf to the dancers and musicians as well as to those that do the basket weaving.

It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes (closed toe), bring along your camera and water (or drinks) for the bus ride.

It is also suggested to bring colored paper, crayons and small toys as gifts for the children of the tribes. If you have old reading glasses, clothing, shoes or household items that are in good condition that you’d like to donate, please bring them along as well.

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RSVP: klamerican.info@gmail com by Thursday, 3 March Please advise if you have any special dietary needs so we can pass that information along to our tour guide.

KL American March 2016

March Activities

LAZAT COOKING SCHOOL Tuesday, 15 March el meson Spanish Restaurant Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru (across from Bangsar Village 1) 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Cost: Individual

This month our lunch bunch crew is heading to Bangsar. If you haven’t been to this authentic Spanish Restaurant, please make plans to join us. We guarantee it will be become one of your favorite “go to” places for lunch or dinner. Everything they offer is made fresh and flavorful by an authentic Spanish chef with over 10 years’ experience. Their menu is expansive and they offer breakfast every day from 11:00 a.m.

– 3:00 p.m. So if your palette is craving a delicious and juicy ‘Ultimate’ pork burger, fresh ingredient pizza, or eggs benedict, you can find it here. They also serve a really delicious Sangria to complement your lunch choice.

RSVP: klamerican.info@gmail.com by Thursday, 10 March We need to know how many to expect so the restaurant can hold a section for us.

Thursday, 24 March 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (approx. return time) P/U & Drop-off at Starbucks/Avenue K Cost:Members RM290 / Non-Members RM318 If you have never been to the LaZat Cooking School of Malaysia, now is the perfect time to check it out. They are offering a special class at a special price just for the AAM. The class will be Roti Canai with Dhall Curry. Not their ordinary menu! This class is offered only a select few times a year and this is one of those dates. The day will start at 8:00 a.m. with pick up at Starbucks/Avenue K. Then it’s off to tour the TTDI market. After that, it is a short journey to the LaZat House and then the cooking demo begins. What you cook becomes your lunch! After lunch you will be shuttled back to Starbucks in Avenue K. Please note: If you want to take home any of your leftovers, bring 2-3 reusable containers and lids with you. . It should also be noted that you will be cooking in an outdoor kitchen so please dress appropriately for the weather.

RSVP: klamerican.info@gmail.com by Monday, 21 March

Your one stop shop for all your beauty needs.

Colour Parlour

Specializes in bringing out the beauty in your hair.

Served by a team of hair stylists, manicurists and a waxing beautician, this hub personalise customers’ needs to rejuvenate the inner beauty to shine on the outside.

We welcome walk in customers, but to avoid disappointment, Customers by appointment is much preferred.

We provide free consultations on hair topics and a 20% discount

to first time customers.

Looking Ahead…

Be sure to mark these dates for activities in April: 01 April - First Friday 11 April - All Souls Day Tour

We use L’Oréal Professional products.

We are located on the third (3rd) floor, No. 306 Plaza Ampang City, off JalanAmpang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur.

With easy accessibility, Colour Parlouris the perfect place to let yourself be pampered, relax and leave feeling beautiful. There is a car park located downstairs in the building and plenty of street parking available as well. Located very close to Susie’s Corner!

16 April - Annual Ball to Retro Night Party 19 April - Lunch Bunch at Brollys 30 April - Game Night at AAM Villa

Please contact Ms. Fiona Lau / Ms. Kelly Lao for free consultations and appointments.

Tel: +603 4251 4484 [O] HP: +6012 267 2699 [Fiona] Email: Fiona_68@live.com KL American March 2016

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CAM / AAM and Eastern Carpets present

The Spring Rug Auction Friday, 4 March, 2016 Safir Room, Hotel Istana 73 Jalan Raja Chulan 6:30 p.m.

Viewing of rugs, light dinner and drinks 7:30 p.m. to Midnight Auction Members: RM30 Non-Members: RM45 Lucky draws throughout the night *Eastern Carpets is an AAM preferred carpet seller.

RSVP: klamerican.info@gmail.com muchbri16@mac.com

Photos from the 2015 Fall Rug Auction.

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KL American March 2016

No Black Tie

By Peggy Uptigrove

N

o Black Tie is not only one of Malaysia’s premiere Jazz Clubs, it’s also one of their best kept secrets.

I first heard about NBT from our experience at the Winetasting event held at Ambiance Showroom in January. Jim, the owner of Ambiance, contracted with NBT to bring in a Jazz duo that had the entire audience entranced by the voice of Karina Kay and the jazz sounds created by the master behind the keyboard. It was Jim that introduced me to Evelyn Hii whom I met recently on my first (and won’t be my last) visit to No Black Tie. Evelyn Hii is the creative mind and founder of No Black Tie. I asked her about the name of the club and how that came about and her answer made perfect sense after she told me. But, before we get to that, we need to talk about Evelyn and her up-bringing and background which brought her to this point today.

Evelyn is one of 5 children that grew up on the Malaysian part of Borneo island called Sarawak. On the evening I went to meet with Evelyn at the club, her mom was in town for a visit and I had the opportunity to meet her as well, a very gracious and gentle woman.

At a very young age, Evelyn had decided that she wanted to be a music student and from that moment on her course was set for what was to become No Black Tie. After completing secondary school in Sarawak, Evelyn traveled to the United States and began her formal studies in St. Louis as a classical pianist. She then moved to Chicago to complete her Masters program and from there returned to Malaysia to begin teaching classical music to local students. She quickly learned that teaching was not for her but couldn’t make out what she was to do with a masters degree and

her classical training. She also told me that doing concert works with philharmonic orchestras’ was very competitive and again was something she felt she wasn’t mean to do with her talents. Thirty years ago, going to the Philharmonic was stuffy and pretentious and people were expected to dress in gowns for the ladies and tuxedos for the gentlemen and to behave in a proper way – it was the social scene of the day but for Evelyn, times were changing.

The birth of No Black Tie was Evelyn’s idea to allow a classically trained pianist the opportunity to showcase her talent in an intimate setting with no pretention (and no dress code). So the name “No Black Tie” is really about the casual environment you can go to and listen to some fantastic artists. Originally built 5 doors down from where it is located today, the stage was built specifically for Evelyn to play “concerts” for her audience and to also showcase local talent and up and coming artists. Today, it is Malaysia’s premiere place to go to listen to jazz, blues, classical and folk music along with the spoken word.

It seems to me, at first impression, this is Evelyn’s calling and what she was meant to do with her talents. Although she admitted to me the club keeps her busy enough that she has little or no time to play the piano these days, she loves what she does and wants to share that love with the world around her.

I highly recommend everyone makes a trip to No Black Tie at least once to hear the acoustically crisp sounds coming from the stage and enjoy an evening of fantastic music.

You can read more about NBT and see their line-up of events and performers at noblacktie.com.my. Enjoy!

KL American March 2016

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Not-So-Precious Gemstones in Your Kidney For those who have ever passed a kidney stone before, they would wonder how something so small could cause so much pain. In Asia, 1 in 10 people will suffer from a kidney stone in their lifetime and once they have already had one, the chances of getting a second stone is between five and 10 per cent each year. Up to half those with a first kidney stone will get a second stone within five years. Generally kidney stones are more likely to affect men than women and they are most likely to develop in people between the ages of 20 and 50 years.

What are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are hard rock-like crystals of varying shapes and sizes, which form when there is an accumulation of dissolved minerals in the urine.

By Dr Hemanth Kumar Ramasamy M.B.B.S (MAHE), FAGE (MAHE), CMIA (NIOSH), M.SURGERY (UKM), FRCS(UROL) (GLASGOW), Board Certified Urologist (MBU), Fellowship in Uro Oncology and General Urology (Australia) Consultant Urologist Tropicana Medical Centre

There are four major types of kidney stones, each associated with different causes: • Calcium stones are the most common type of kidney stone, representing almost 90 percent of all kidney stones and occur in two major forms: calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate.

• Uric acid stones form when the urine is persistently acidic. A diet rich in animal protein such as meats, fish and shellfish can increase uric acid in the urine leading to oversaturation. This oversaturation in the urine can settle and form a uric acid stone by itself or combined with calcium.

• Struvite stones contain magnesium and the waste products of ammonia are a result from kidney infections.

• Cystine stones which result from a genetic disorder is a rare form of hereditary stones What are the risk factors for kidney stones?

There are several factors that increase your chances of forming kidney stones • Low fluid intake is the most common cause of kidney stones • Environmental factors – warm climates with decreased fluid intake coupled with excess sweating can lead to decreased urine volume and an increased saturation of minerals in the urine leading to kidney stones • Diets high in sodium and protein diets can significantly increase chances of kidney stones • Obesity has been linked to stone formation • Family history of stones increases your chance of developing kidney stones • Medical problems such as diabetes, gout, kidney diseases and cystinuria increase the risk of developing kidney stones • Individuals who have underwent Bariatric surgery like gastric bypass are also more susceptible to kidney stones

TROPICANA MEDICAL CENTRE

11, Jalan Teknologi, PJU 5, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan.

T: +603-6287 1111 W: www.tropicanamedicalcentre.com FB: www.facebook.com/TropicanaMedicalCentre E: enquiries@tropicanamedicalcentre.com

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KL American March 2016

Symptoms of kidney stones: A kidney stone does not always cause pain at an early stage. The pain, which is better known as “Renal Colic”, shows up only when a stone cut loose from its home in the kidney and heads down the ureter, the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder. This pain can be quite severe and has been said to be the nearest a man will ever experience labour pains. This pain is due to the strong spasms, which are generated in an effort to expel the stone from the narrow ureter. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting and blood in the urine.

Shivers, sweating and fever are commonly seen for those who develop a secondary urine infection.

Treatment for kidney stones: Most kidney stones can be treated without surgery.

Ninety per cent of stones under the size of 4mm will

pass by themselves within three to six weeks.

Stones that do not pass will need to be removed as they can lead to obstruction to the urine flow or cause bleeding and infection. Treatment approaches range from non-invasive treatment with shock wave therapy, minimally invasive techniques using endoscopic surgery and conventional surgery.

Some of these treatments include: • Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) A non-invasive technique where shock waves are used to break the kidney stone into smaller pieces, which then pass out naturally with the urine. It is used for stones less than 2 cm in size.

• Minimally invasive endoscopic stone extraction A tiny scope is inserted into the urethra, passed into the bladder and then to where the stone is located.

The stone is then fragmented with laser or extracted with small baskets • Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) A small cut is made to the back measuring less than 1cm, then a special instrument is used to remove the kidney stone.

• Open surgery If none of these methods are suitable, the stone may be needed to be removed using traditional surgery.

How to prevent kidney stones?

The primary risk factor for kidney stones is poor water intake. Good hydration is key to prevention of stone formation. The recommended amount of fluids should be at least 8 glasses of water a day, but an easier way to know if you are drinking enough water is to check the color of your urine.You want your urine to be a very light or pale yellow. The darker the urine indicates dehydration.

Another measure is to limit your salt intake. This will cut down on the amount of calcium in your urine, which in turn reduces the tendency for calcium stones to form. Fruits rich in citrates, including oranges, melons, lemons and limes prevent stone formation. This is because citrate is a proven stone inhibitor. Exercise reduces the tendency for stone formation, so even a small amount of regular exercise will prevent stone formation.

If you have risk factors for kidney stone formation, you should consult with your physician for an evaluation and information about Kidney stones.

If you require an ambulance service, dial our 24-hr Emergency Hotline at +603-6287 1999. Our dedicated ambulance service is well-equipped with experienced paramedics and well-trained emergency medical staff to deliver a wide range of medical services in times of emergencies. For more info, kindly contact our Expatriate Liaison, Sarah at 018-2111 259.

When should you call an Ambulance?

Experience heart attack/severe chest pain, experience breathing difficulty, paediatric & neonatal cases, experience severe abdominal pain, experience severe bleeding, loss of consciousness, strokes, fainting, convulsions/fits/seizure, trauma (injury)/ road or motor vehicle accident, fractures / dislocation / serious sprain, require emergency evacuations, require medical transportation services

The 2 "Seas-ters" If there is one thing better than quality red meat, it is fresh sweet succulent seafood. Crabs and many other crustacens have health benefits that many people do not know about. Seafood has taken a bad rap for high cholesterol which has deterred many people from enjoying these delicious gifts of the sea. Moderation is the key to healthy and enjoyable living.

Top 10 Benefits of Crabs & Lobsters 1 2

3

4

5

6 7 8 9 10

crabs are cheaper and just as tasty as lobsters are full of protein that helps build and repair muscle tissues are full of Omega-3 fatty acids which have anti-inflammatory properties, that help lower blood pressure and protect against heart disease. are full of minerals particularly Selenium that plays a key role in the human’s antioxidant defence system, preventing damage to cells and tissues contain Vitamin B, important in the production of steroids and red blood cells central in the maintenance of the skin, eyes and the nervous system. Basically makes you youthful and beautiful! are full of zinc that boost the immune system and heal body tissues abundant in phosphorous which help teeth, bones and boosts the metabolism. lobsters are also a great source of Vitamin B12, which overcome tiredness and fatigue lobsters are also low in cholesterol lobsters are also low in fat content and sweet in flavour compared to prawns

CRAB FACTORY

BROLLY

21, Jalan SS2/64, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 603-7865 5850

Ground Floor, Menara Felda, Persiaran KLCC. Tel: 603-2181 4122

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Memories Malacca Day Tour – 8 December Photos by Jinan Jabagi After one postponement for this day trip to Malacca the bus departed with a handful of AAM members and they enjoyed the day in Malacca seeing the sights. With an English speaking guide, members were treated to a whole lot of Malaysian history through the streets of Malacca and within the old building and church walls. It was a long day for all of them but well worth the trip.

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Memories Christmas Lunch co-share with Canadian Association of Malaysia – 13 December Photos by Peggy Uptigrove Families from both associations enjoyed an afternoon of fun and games and good food. Held at the Park Royale Hotel, the afternoon was a gathering of friends from both sides of the border, who really had fun watching all the kids have fun – both little ones and big kids (adults)!

Lunch was a traditional Christmas dinner with turkey and all the trimmings. Santa showed up towards the end of the afternoon to hand out gifts to the children.

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Memories AAM Crazy Sweater & Cookie Exchange – 15 December Photos by Peggy Uptigrove As the year was winding down, the ladies of the AAM got together for a first ever Crazy/Ugly Christmas sweater competition and cookie exchange. Cindy Gros was the winner of the ugliest sweater and won herself a RM30 gift card and re-usable go cup from Starbucks. There were plenty of cookies to share and take home completing everyone’s Christmas baking. A sweet time!

Feng Shui – 12 January Photos by Peggy Uptigrove

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We kicked off the New Year by hosting a speaker who is trained in the field of Feng Shui. She talked to us about the importance of using Feng Shui in your life this year (and every year), how the 5 elements work within Feng Shui and how to increase the “flow of positive energy” in your life. She also told us about specific dates and times that will be key for a very Happy New Year.

Memories Lunch Bunch at AQUA – 13 January Photos by Peggy Uptigrove Our first lunch bunch of the year was held at AQUA, located on the spa level of the Mandarin Hotel. They had fabulous food and a fantastic view – the ladies really enjoyed our time together.

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Memories Saturday Night Out - 16 January Photos by Randee & Bill Duncan Lots of people turned out for our first ever Wine Tasting Event held at Ambiance Showroom. It was the perfect backdrop for a lovely evening of wine tasting, food sampling and Jazz music. A great time was had by everybody that attended-

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KL American March 2016

Security in Malaysia

By Dabz

You only have to step outside your door to see that security in Malaysia is getting tighter. From Sentral Station to Pavilion, armed Police and Paratroopers have moved in. Look up to the skies and there is a definite hum in the air from extra helicopters. This morning while enjoying a flat white at a coffee shop meeting in Mont Kiara, I could not help noticing two of Malaysia’s finest strolling along armed to the hilt. Do I feel better about it? I am not sure. I think it is like the first time I flew back to the UK and came across the British Police in Terminator gear. It was odd. British Police are not typically armed.

Now when I fly over I don’t think about it. It has just become part of the fixtures and fittings.

City Police Chief Datuk Tajuddin Md Isa tells us that “There are enough security measures in place to thwart a possible attack in Kuala Lumpur” according to a recent article in “The Star” newspaper.

The increase in SMS messages I am getting from clients and parents when they find themselves face to face with a shotgun or in some cases machine-gun wielding police officer, tells me that maybe we are not yet ready to “Keep calm and carry on.”

So what should you do if you are concerned about your school or your office? Talk to the head teacher, head of security or colleagues.

Current threat information means you have answers. It may be the Engineer in me but maybe knowing what is going on is enough?

Equally, make sure your information is coming from a reliable source.

The great interweb can be very one-sided. Like only watching one news channel in the USA, you want to make sure you look at things from more than one place. Whatever happens I think that not knowing is worse than knowing. Our minds play tricks and before we know it we are in fear of a military coup d’état or a third world war. A quick call or email can go a long way to settling our fears. This goes for schools, work places or even large shopping malls.

I recently took a job as a security consultant and project manager with Atlas Solutions. One of the services we offer is “what if training.”

We have found that clients are less stressed when they have a practised game plan. How about getting your community together and organizing a talk? Include management and security, make sure the guys who are meant to look after you have a game plan. If they don’t, give me a call, or talk to your embassy.

My personal opinion is that the Malaysian government continues to have our personal safety high on their priority list, especially after the sad events in Paris. Last month, they intercepted and arrested a gang of men threatening a terrorist attack. They also picked up a lone man armed with a large knife. I continue to take high tea at Pavilion and stroll to KLCC. I have also signed myself up for some security seminars so I know when I need to skip my social shopping trips. Fear is a difficult thing to live with, so if you ever want to chat email the editor at the AAM and they will put us in touch!

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AAM Messages AAM Online Communities The AAM is on Facebook! “Like” the AAM Facebook fan page by logging on, typing ‘American Association of Malaysia’ in the Search bar at the top of the page and clicking ‘Like.’ You’ll get the latest information on all of AAM’s exciting events and activities!

Introducing the AAM Google Group - a forum for members to consult with other members on queries and recommendations for anything from best family hotels to dentists to household help. Members can join in two ways. First, you can send an email to secondvp.aam@gmail.com with the email addresses you would like to add to the Google Group. Please put “Need AAM Google Group Invite” in the header of the email. The second way to join is you can go to Google Groups, search for American Association of Malaysia and then ask to be invited and the Administrator can add you. When you receive the invite via email, you must respond to complete the registration process. For more information, go to http:// www.klamerican.com/online-communities.

Membership Renewal

To avoid missing any issues of the magazine and to continue receiving discounted prices for AAM events, please make sure your membership is up to date. Renewal notices will be emailed to you one month before expiration. Dues can be paid by cash or check in person at the AAM Villa @ The Troika by or cash deposit to the AAM’s bank account directly.

Your $0.02 Do you have any ideas or suggestions for new activities, events or workshops that may be of interest to our members? Can you think of ways we can improve our current line-up? Any concerns about the AAM’s building facilities? Your feedback, whether positive or negative, is always welcome. Kindly drop us a note in the Suggestion Box located in the villa or email klamerican.info@gmail.com.

Solicitation Policy Solicitation of business by any member or guest is not allowed at any AAM function without prior board approval. Members are requested to respectfully observe the policy that membership information is to be used solely for AAM business and is not to be used for personal or business solicitation purposes. If you are interested in sharing your talents/services with the AAM, please contact the AAM office.

Holidays in March None

Reservation & Payment Policy

Event and Activity reservations can be made via email to klamerican. info@gmail.com, in person or via fax.

• If the reservation is made via email or fax, the AAM office will send you an acknowledgment receipt and advise whether or not the activity is still available.

• Fees MUST be paid within 48 hours of signing up for an event or activity. You will not be “confirmed” for the event/activity until payment in full has been received by the office.

• You may pay by cash or check in person at the AAM Villa @ The Troika or cash deposit to the AAM’s bank account directly. If you wish to deposit cash payments to the AAM’s bank account, please contact the AAM office for account information and instructions (your bank may charge you a minimal fee for this service).

• We cannot accept credit card payments at the office. We are currently working on details to secure an on-line payment system for your convenience. Further information to come.

Cancellation Policy

• Reservations MUST be cancelled FIVE BUSINESS DAYS prior to the activity in order to received a refund. If you do not cancel your reservation within this time period or you are a no-show the day of the Event/Activity, a refund will not be issued.

• For Events/Activities that have a required minimum attendance, AAM reserves the right to cancel or reschedule when circumstances warrant.

• Each Event/Activity will have a sign up deadline date and we must adhere to those dates. This allows instructors of classes to gather all required materials or tour companies to arrange the proper transportation for our group.

• If you still have not made payment by the reservation deadline for an Event/Activity, your name will be automatically removed from the sign-up sheet and there will be no further correspondence from the AAM office. To avoid disappointment, please make your payment within 48 hours of making your reservation.

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US EMBASSY We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Malaysia enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at http://www.travel.state.gov/. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the embassy or nearest consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you don’t have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

The U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur is located at 376 Jalan Tun Razak 50400, Kuala Lumpur and is open 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. If you are a U.S. citizen and have any questions or concerns, please call the U.S. Embassy at (03) 2168-5000 or visit the U.S. Citizens Service website at http://malaysia.usembassy.gov/.

We will post the most updated information on the website.

USEFUL LINKS: CountyOffice.org is the most accurate internet database of county government offices in the United States. Use our site to locate your county assessor, board of elections, chamber of commerce, child support offices, colleges, coroner, courts, and much more, with all relevant details.

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

EMERGENCY POLICE......................................................................999 FIRE & RESCUE.........................................................999 CIVIL DEFENSE.........................................................999 ANY EMERGENCIES FROM MOBILE PHONE............112 UTILITIES...

ELECTRICITY/POWER FAILURE............................ 15454 WATER DISRUPTION................................1800 88 5252 SEWAGE SYSTEM.....................................03 2780 1100 OPERATOR DIRECTORY ENQUIRIES............................................100 ANIMALS MISSING PETS..........................................03 4021 1682 SNAKES & PESTS......................................03 4042 6742 ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER. (24 HRS.).....03 4041 6742

For more than a decade, KLIA Ekspres has been taking air travelers and commuters to their destination safely, comfortably and on time. The service remains the fastest and most reliable way to get from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to KL Sentral, with the journey taking just under half an hour. However, the success of KLIA Ekspres is not simply due to it being the most rapid airport transfer in Malaysia.

The state-of-the-art trains are immaculately clean, quiet, have ample storage space and are equipped with complimentary 4G WiFi. KLIA Ekspres also offers an easy-touse online ticketing and Trip Planner to help passengers get to where they need to go without fuss. Positive TripAdvisor reviews continue to laud KLIA Ekspres as a convenient and smooth means of travelling to Kuala Lumpur’s major hubs. It was also named AirRail Link of the Year at the 2012, 2014, and 2015 Global AirRail Awards.

There are even more reasons to choose KLIA Ekspres on the horizon. Despite the revision of the standard fares, as of 1st January 2016, a variety of special offers will allow you to continue using the KLIA Ekspres while making significant savings.

1. Buy a Return Ticket and save RM10 Although the Single Trip Ticket has increased to RM55, the cost for a Return Ticket is only RM100. The trains depart every 15 minutes during peak hours, so you can beat the rush hour traffic and save on both the time and money you might otherwise spend on a taxi fare.

2. Save 10% when you buy online, via the mobile app or at the Self-Service Kiosk (SSK) KLIA Ekspres is committed to helping people reach their destinations as quickly and easily as possible. Travelers have the option of buying tickets for both themselves and their family effortlessly via the website or with the user friendly app. Passengers also have the option of using self-service kiosks (SSKs) at the stations to avoid waiting in line at the ticket counter.

For additional convenience, those who purchase their tickets online, through the mobile app or at the SSKs will save an extra 10% off the overall fare. For example, as of the 1st of January this year, an Adult Single Trip Ticket between KL Sentral and KLIA/KLIA2 will cost just RM 49.50 when you pay via the above methods. What’s more, a Return Ticket will be RM90 overall, meaning just RM45 each way.

3. Save 20% with MasterCard Credit and Debit Cards In addition to the discount you get when you buy online or via the mobile app or at the self-service kiosks, you can save even more on the ticket price by using your MasterCard Credit or Debit card.

If you use your MasterCard, you can buy a Return Ticket for just RM80, and a Single Trip Ticket to your destination would cost only RM44.

4. 20% cashback for purchase with any AmBank, AmBank Islamic or MBF credit card KLIA Ekspres works with partners such as the banks to offer great deals to the public. For example, there is a 20% cash back offer for passengers who use AmBank, AmBank Islamic, or MBF credit cards when buying tickets at the counter, online, or at the kiosk.

5. Save 10% when using Touch ‘n Go Card at the Gates Using a Touch ‘n Go card is an ideal way to get to your destination in the quickest time possible. When you use your Touch ‘n Go card for the KLIA Ekspres, you can take 10% off the ticket price. That means a Single Trip Ticket between KL Sentral and KLIA/KLIA2 will only cost you RM49.50 rather than the RM55 you would have to pay otherwise.

So, get smart and make full use of the various offers available to enjoy savings with KLIA Ekspres. These offers are valid from 1st January 2016 until further notice. KLIA Ekspres will be coming out with more smart saving options for its passengers to continue enjoying the fastest airport transfer in the country. Look out for more promotional deals at www.kliaekspres.com.

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american association of malaysia KL

March 2016

Sun

Mon

Tues 1

9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Batik Workshop

VENUE KEY

2

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Stitching Friends

Thu 3

7

1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Mahjong

8

9

Fri 4

Sat

9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

First Fridays @ Café de Paris/ Pavilion

10 - 11 a.m.

6:00 p.m.

Bingo @ Little Gentlemen’s Night Sisters of the Poor Out @ Taps

AAM Villa @ The Troika

6

Wed

5

6:30 p.m. Midnight Spring Rug Auction

10

11

12

16

17

18

19

23

24

25

26

30

31

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Stitching Friends 8:30 a.m. 3:00 p.m.

Carey Island Day Tour

13

14

15

20

21

22

27

28

29

1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Mahjong

1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Mahjong

1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Mahjong

11:45 a.m. 1:00 p.m.

Lunch Bunch @ el meson / Bangsar

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Stitching Friends

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Stitching Friends

10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Stitching Friends

8:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m.

LaZat Cooking School

AAM Office Tel: (03) 2161-9008 / 9009 email: klamerican.info@gmail.com

Subang Jaya Medical Centre

For enquireies, please call -

+603 5639 1212

Ara Damansara Medical Centre

ParkCity Medical Centre

1, Jalan SS12/1A, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor

Lot 2, Jalan Lapangan Terbang Subang, Seksyen U2, 40150, Shah Alam, Selangor

No.2, Jalan Intisari Perdana, Desa ParkCity, 52200 Kuala Lumpur

Your One-Stop Medical Centre with Centres of Excellence in

Your One-Stop Medical Centre with Centres of Excellence in

Your Family-friendly Hospital aiming to be a regional leader in the specialties of

• Cancer • Blood Diseases • Digestive & Liver Health

• Brain • Heart • Spine & Joints

• Women • Children • Elderly Health

or email -

mcu@ramsaysimedarbyhealth.com

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www.ramsaysimedarby.asia

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(60-3) 5565 KL American March 2200 2016

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