KINO Kuching In & Out Magazine Issue #2

N0 2 / june-july 2013

I’m

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6 issues a year

a lifEstyle print and digital magazine WWW.KUCHINGINANDOUT.COM

ta the Pas S V e e Kolo m p.24

Tracked down p.14

Beauty Feast and the

Mission possible in a Bidayuh village

Believe It or Not

p24

PASSION of another kind CALENDAR l LISTINGS l AREA BY AREA l NIGHT SPOTS l MAPS

Cultural Shock or Chic?

I would like to think of myself as a «returnee» (and not a retiree... yet). Many of us have reasons to come back to Kuching as others have reasons to stay abroad. Wherever we may be, there is always that pull to think of where we have been before. In my case, I’m pretty mixed up. Having lived in three different cultures after I left home, I am sometimes asked from where I come. I’ve been taken for a Japanese, a Korean and incredibly an Eskimo! The best remark came from a Chinese lady in China who told me that I was a «banana»...yellow on the outside, white on the inside. Hilarious may be this remark, I really do understand all the above confusion and don’t blame anyone one bit for taking me for anything but a gal from Kuching. Although I have lived abroad in different environment, climates and cultures, I realise that I have never replaced my culture for another. I have only added on other cultures to mine. If being a «banana» means having dual, or triple «culturalship», hey, call me a fruitcake if you like.

Speaking of culture, a hearty Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai to all our Dayak communities. Our cover story Beauty and the Feast is a tribute to a tiny Bidayuh village, an hour and a half away from Kuching. A beautiful village with a mission (pg. 18).

Also in this issue, an «excat» working in Iraq! How’s that for change of environment and climate (pg. 5).

first E

N VE

MARIAN CHIN Editor-in-Chief

T

From left to right: Saloma’s mother, Marian Chin and Saloma at Kampung Sadir for our cover story. We happily share our jungle feast with you through images and recipes.

letter about this encouraging A swiss knife for ap. An excerpt: our KI&O bus m t, I think a Kuching In and Ou of py co a «I took magazine g din I am not a rea month or so ago. how to ow kn t no do lly I rea kind of person, so make comments. on on the bus for your informati I am so grateful mind for my in . It has been routes in Kuching routes s bu r ou w ho to know so long to want e to m to e ur is such a treas king in are going and it lac so is ing ch Ku ation. e, the read such inform tim is th pe port and I ho good public trans . job od go ll do a bus company wi ur great effort.».

Thank you for yo g Chua Geck Hian ars old) Housewife (71 ye

NOV 13, 14, 15, 2013

1 STAR michelin CHEF Sebastien Bruecher from France seconded by 5 top- notch l ocal CH EFS max. 20

Chef Sebastien Bruecher brings and shares his passion

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FUNDRAISING FOR TEENAGE MOTHERS

l7 I bKUCHING l9 HERITAGE 11 BY THE WAY l 12

Life in Basrah

N0 2 / june-july 2013

In this issue...

I’m

FREE

6 issues a year

a lifEstyle print and digital magazine WWW.KUCHINGINANDOUT.COM

20

Tun Jugah Museum and Gallery Life’s observations Tracked down p.14

KI&OFOODVENTURES Two chefs take a look at each others speciality in this Noodle/Pasta «chow down»

KI&OcoverStory THE BEAUTY: A special lady with a mission for her Bidayuh village THE FEAST: A whole day of jungle trekking for fresh products. Cooking, eating and recipes.

l

23 WELLNESS

Tangas VS Spa

it or not 24 AKI&OBelieve percussionist and his «other» passion 33 TESTIMONIAL l 35 CHANGE l 40 AREA BY AREA l 42 NIGHT SPOTS l 44 «NEXT STOP» l 46 BOOK l

sta VS the Pa

p.24

Beauty Feast and the

Mission possible in a Bidayuh village

Believe It or Not

16

e Kolo me

Brave battles

p24

PASSION of another kind CALENDAR l LISTINGS l AREA BY AREA l NIGHT SPOTS l MAPS

KINO COVER PHOTO: JONG SAW KANG

KINO Digital magazine is INside and OUTside of the printed magazine. KINO Digital magazine is your platform to tell a story, share your thoughts, memories, talk about a recipe, see and post videos, sms your comments directly to the online magazine and join us for competitions, events and more.

Or simply ‘flip’ through the ‘pages’ with our KINO app.

Innovation taken step by step editorial

Exploring KENYALANG PARK

MARIAN CHIN Eiditor-in-Chief RIA PUIG Project Editor CELINA LIAN Coordinator/Adminstrator

Where to eat after midnight

AGNES BALAN Copy Editor CECILIA GOH Copy Editor

BUS ROUTES MAP, first steps...

ART / GRAPHIC KI&O TEAM In & Out

THE NYONYA, the Life Drama

AMR OMAR Webmaster CONTRIBUTORS JANET RATA anak NOEL, JOHN M. CHIN, STELLA CHIN, IRENE BRODIE SHEPHERD,

In the next issue:

From «Lok Thian» to Perth. A look at a local Chef living in Australia on «Cooking for Seniors».

Are our senior generation getting an «uncooked» deal from us. Cooking in style for our senior population.

Tips and recipes.

ALEX ANG, MEL WU, DR UMIKALSOM HJ OTHMAN, ZAIWIN KASSIM, LU CHERN, RUYI JING, KAREN SHEPHERD ADVERTISING MARIAN CHIN 019 857 957 6 RIA PUIG 016 893 893 4 PUBLISHER WHATMATTERS SDN BHD (518203 D) Published bi-monthly by WHATMATTERS SDN BHD (518203 D) Next issues: August-September, with monthly issues for October, November and December.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in any manner in whole or part may be allowed prior to written permission. The publisher is not liable for statements made and opinions expressed in the publication.

Printed by Infografik Press SDN. BHD.

WHAT’S UP–IN & OUT OF KUCHI N G JUNE2013 22-23

SAMARAHAN MOTORCROSS CHALLENGE A motobike race attracting both local and foreign visitors.

GAWAI DAYAK CULTURE VENUE: Samarahan District Council Cultural diversity of the Dayak Motorcross Circuit, Samarahan communities is showcased in this event. Bolhassan Bin Mohammad: 013-5753305 VENUE: Godown Amphitheatre WEBSITE: www.samarahandc.sarawak.gov.my Kuching Waterfront SAMARAHAN: 1Malaysia Dance Festival Kuching Waterfront Management A festival for all interested to learn all the Zacharia Manan: 082-426093 ethnic groups dances in Sarawak.

VENUE: Desa Ilmu Pedestrian Mall, Kota Samarahan, Samarahan Borneo Island Int. Big Bikes Festival Bin Mohammad: 013-5753305 For motobike enthusiasts. A bazaar with WEBSITE: www.samarahandc.sarawak.gov.my a wide range of merchandises and bike accessories.

VENUE: Kuching Waterfront KUCHING: Borneo World Music Expo Abdul Azis Hj. Mainol: 013 8187675 This music Expo is the first of its kind to be Website: Facebook - BIIBBF 2013 organised in South East Asia, consisting of LIMBANG Babulang Festival & trade fairs, musical showcases, conferences, Buffalo Race exhibitions and networking sessions. It Significant to the Bisaya community in brings together the worlds of traditional, Limbang highlighting the many facets of ethnic, folk and roots music to town.

Bisaya culture, foods and handicrafts.

VENUE: Pullman Hotel, Kuching Racing teams from Limbang, Sabah and Sarawak Tourism Board Brunei. “Ratu Babulang” draws many Pauline Lim: 082-423600 Bisaya ladies for this beauty crown.

WEBSITE: www.sarawaktourism.com VENUE: Batu Danau Village, Limbang Antionio Khati Galis: 019 8852705 SIBU: Borneo Cultural Festival A week of festivities. Food, music and KUCHING- Live Active Run 2013 dances, celebrating the diverse cultural Promoting Health lifestyle. Running background of the Sibu community. distance up to 42.2 km. Local and foreign VENUE: Sibu Town Square participation.

Sibu Municipal Council VENUE: The Spring shopping Mall Hii Chang Kee: 084-333411 KCNH: -82-446688 WEBSITE: www.smc.gov.my

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KUCHING: Rainforest World Music Festival Voted as one of the top 25 International Music Festivals, this iconic event showcases renowned world musicians frall all continents and indigenous musicians from Borneo. Afternoon interactive workshops, ethno-musical lectures, jamming sessions and mini concerts.

VENUE: Sarawak Cultural Village, Santubong Sarawak Tourism Board: 084-423600 WEBSITE: www.sarawaktourism.com Rainforest World Craft Bazaar Showcasing both local and international crafts.

VENUE: Sarawak Cultural Village, Santubong Crafthub Sdn Bhd: 082-422346 WEBSITE: www.crafthub.com.my KUCHING: 2nd Traditional Tattoo Expo Over 20 tattoo artists from countries such as New Zealand, Sweden and Germany have come to share and show their skills.

VENUE: Damai Central Santubong Monkey Tattoo: 019 888 0676 KUCHING: Gawai Carnival REDEEMS Authentic Dayak Bidayuh culture, tradition, sports, food and craft. Popular since 2006.

VENUE: REDEEMS Community Hall, Singai, Bau.

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BINTULU: Sarawak Traditional Kite Festival A kite flying competition attracting all local kite enthusiasts for a new kind of kite flying experience.

VENUE: Old Airport, Bintulu Bintulu Development Authority 086-332277 WEBSITE: www.bda.gov.my

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WHAT’S UP–IN & OUT OF KUCHING

JULY2013 1-7

MIRI: Borneo Int. Yachting Challeng The Borneo International Yachting Challenge, the first truly international yachting event in the waters off Borneo, is a joint effort of two Malaysian Borneo States, Sarawak and Sabah, and the Federal Territory (F.T.) of Labuan, organised under the auspices of the Malaysian Yachting Association.

This year’s Borneo Race is in its 10th season. Since 2003 we have had an average of 20 boats from all over the world participating, from as far as St Vincent. This year the start of the race has been timed to coincide with the schedule of Sail Malaysia Passage to the East Rally, so it is expected many more cruising yachts will join for some friendly racing.

VENUE: Miri Marina and Sutera Harbour Sarawak and Sabah Tourism Board, Ministry of Urban Development.

Miri Yachting Club Mr. Michael: 085-423033 WEBSITE: www.borneorace.com

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Padawan Raft Safari (Date to be confirmed) Kayaking and rafting starting from Kampung Annah Rais, Kampung Temurang and Kampung Danu. Finishing point at Kampung Git. VENUE: Kampung Annah Rais Lim Kim Hin: 082-615566 Website: mpp.gov.my

KUCHING: Pump Ski Race-Pertandingan Pam Ski Batang Smarahan (Call for dates) Pump Ski Race is more like a power boat race. The structure is similar except that water pump engine is used for power. This competition is open to all.

VENUE: Pangkalan Feri, Samarahan Pejabat Daerah Samarahan + Dttg.

Samarahan Mohammad Hadi Bin Datuk Haji Bolhen: 082 671148 WEBSITE: www.samarahando.sarawak.gov.my KUCHING: Gawai Carnival Bung Jagoi (Call for dates) Located on a saddle of the 1,600-foot Mount Jagoi, the village is a melting pot of cultures for the Jagoi dialectal group.

Gawai Carnival Bung Jagoi is the annual Gawai ceremony celebrated since 2009.

Popular for its genuine tradition culture and sports of the natives particularly the Bidayuh of Bung Jagoi.

VENUE: Bung Jagoi Jagoi Development and Heritage Committee Robert: 012-8867763 robertimsul@gmail.com BETONG:Pesta Ikan Buntal (Call for dates) Promote Buntal Yellow Fish as one of the delicious dishes popular among the local community. Activities include mini regatta, demonstration of how to prepare and cook puffer fish, puffer fish tournaments, soccer tournaments, karaoke, traditional games (top cross).

VENUE: Jeti, Kampung Manggut, Spaoh Pejabat Daerah Betong & Pejabat Daerah Kecil Spaoh.

083-472204 www.betongdo.sarawak.gov.my www.kuchinginandout.com KI&O 6

l l l l6 I b KUCHING

by G.B.

Ex'Cat': Life in Basrah, Iraq YOU LOOK OUT OF THE AIRPLANE window and everything is shades of tan. Houses are almost camouflaged and blend into the sands of the desert. The Shatt al-Arab curves gracefully around Basrah city before emptying into the Persian Gulf. As the plane makes its approach, the miniature houses get bigger, and every so often a patch of green appears in the middle of what seems like an endless desert. The airplane shudders and comes to a slow stop and an air hostess announces “Welcome to Basrah”.

When you leave Basrah International Airport, the first thing you notice are the slew of big black SUV’s pulling up outside ‘Arrivals’ and you think to yourself “this isn’t half bad”…It isn’t until you pull up to the Dust Bowl and are ejected into the dusty Iraqi landscape that you realize that those big black shiny cars were just the airport taxis, and you will be travelling to your final destination via a B6 armored vehicle that takes both hands and all your body weight to open the passenger door. The PSD lads heft a set of body armor over your head, strap you in, deliver the safety briefing and off you go.

If anyone is thinking of visiting Basrah in the summer, my only advice is Don’t. Temperatures rise to over 50 degrees centigrade with very low humidity, so going for a walk outside is akin to standing inside a blazing hot

KI&O www.kuchinginandout.com 7

furnace. On days like these my colleagues and I end up reminiscing about our hometowns, how great an ice cold cendol would taste at this very moment. The months of September to March are much more agreeable. In the winter and the spring the desert comes to life. The temperature dips to below 10 degrees; it finally rains after long months of sun, sand and heat. Patches of green miraculously appear along the roads, even the sheep look happy!

The thing I miss most when in Basrah would definitely be Kuching food. I’m not saying Iraqi food is bad. In fact, I’ve had the best kebab of my life in Basrah - a toasty Arabic bread pocket stuffed full with tangy Arabic pickles (pickled cauliflower, carrots and chili), large slices of grilled tomato, fragrant juicy grilled lamb and topped with a squeeze of lemon juice, whole green chilies and their version of chilli sauce. But the hole in the wall is only open from 9am to 2pm; you

My suitcase is forever packed with jars of homemade sambal, packs of Maggi mee, and when I can get it, tempoyak. can’t go to a hawker center at any time of the day and still have at least 5 different stalls to choose from. And some days you really, really miss a steaming hot bowl of kueh chap with all the bits. My suitcase is forever packed with jars of homemade sambal, packs of Maggi mee, and when I can get it, tempoyak.

What keeps me going is the knowledge that after 28 days in the dusty desert I can look forward to a 10-hour flight due east and at the end of that rainbow is a smorgasbord of Kuching delicacies….

G.B. ‘Kuching Native’

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l l l l9 HERITAGE

by Janet Rata anak Noel

‘Ties that Bind’* THE TUN JUGAH FOUNDATION, registered on 29th January, 1985, is a charitable organization dedicated to research and the preservation of Iban arts, cultural tradition, oral tradition and language.

The Foundation has five divisions, namely: Museum & Gallery; Textile; Oral History and Oral Literature; Library & Archives; and Publications.

Tun Jugah Museum and Pua Gallery is housed at the Tun Jugah building which is located at Kuching’s city centre. The Pua weaving gallery, set up in 2000

by Puan Sri Datin Amar Margaret Linggi, became the platform for weaving enthusiasts to learn and explore the art of Iban weaving. It is a living gallery where visitors can observe weavers working on their weaving projects. Artifacts consisting of old and rare woven textiles in both ikat (tie-dye) and sungkit (supplementary weft technique) are displayed in the museum.

Also on display are jars, ceramics, beads, ceremonial swords, silver collection and some personal items of the late Tun Jugah. The museum collection comprises family heirlooms and they are of sentimental as well as historical value. The Foundation also manages the museum at Fort Sylvia, Kapit, built in 1880, and has been declared as a historical monument. The Foundation also takes care of the building itself.

MISSION STATEMENT of the Museum and Gallery: • To preserve and to promote the tra-

KI&O www.kuchinginandout.com 9

The Pua weaving gallery was set up in 2000 by Puan Sri Datin Amar Margaret Linggi.

She wrote a book about «Ikat» fabrics called «Ties that Bind»* in 1998

ditional methods of Iban textile weaving, for the benefit of the community and the general public.

• To provide a greater understanding of Iban textiles and weaving tradition, both for local and international interests.

• To show the rich material culture of the Iban people via a display of selected traditional and rare pua’ pieces.

The Oral History and Oral Literature Department records, documents and conserves all major forms of Iban oral traditions and Literature. These are transcribed and published in the form of books. Some of these research materials have been published in Iban and English, namely the 4-volume Encyclopedia of Iban Studies; Handy-Reference Dictionary of Iban and English; Seeds of Play, Words of Power; and several other ethnographic books on Iban ritual chants; proverbs and other forms of invocations such as Timang (invocatory chants), Sabak (dirge), Jaku Dalam (proverbs/idioms), Sampi Biau (religious supplications/ prayers), Pelian (healing chants),

Pantun Iban (Iban traditional songs), Renung Semain (songs of romance), Entelah (riddles), and Ensera (folk tales/legends).

The Foundation is also a member of k@Borneo, a regional cooperation on development and sharing of information on Borneo. It is a collective effort to collaborate internationally on identification and preservation of Bornean materials with participating institutions from countries like Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia.

GALLERIES / EXHIBITS / CONTACT: Opening Hours: Mondays to Fridays: 9.00 am – 12.00 noon, 1.00 pm – 4.30 pm. Closed on Weekends and Public Holidays.

18 Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Level 4 Tun Jugah. Kuching. 082-239672 http://www.tunjugahfoundation.org.my

Janet Rata anak Noel has been with The Tun Jugah Foundation in various capacities since 1988, and is a pioneer staff of the Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to research and the preservation of Iban arts, language, culture and tradition. Since 1999, she was appointed Curator of the Foundation’s Museum and Gallery, Kuching, as well as the Fort Sylvia Museum in Kapit.

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11 BY THE WAY... llll

by Stella Chin

Only Ours for a Season STANDING IN THE doorway, gazing wistfully at the familiar chaos in her room. I was fully armed in combat gear, gloves, vacuum cleaner and mop but I was not prepared for the tide of emotions that swept through me. My youngest, just left for college. This daughter who had been permanently resident for the past 18 years, creatively lending her own stamp of approval to her private space with typical teenage debris. I had bemoaned, raved and ranted at her ‘messiness’ and lack of organisational skills. Now all I could see was her absence. Looking back, with the first and eldest one leaving over three years ago it was a little easier for me as I had to stay behind in Kuching to mummy the other two and it was daddy who had to fight back tears as he left number one son to fend for himself in KL. Then came number two daughter, my turn to settle her overseas, another major tug at the heartstrings as I hugged her goodbye. With my third and last baby bird flown away… it certainly doesn’t get any easier... quite the opposite… nest now well and truly empty.

Some get a new pet, others live for the skype moments. Me? I went on a langsat binge. Don’t be fooled. Those tiny orbs of translucent fleshiness encased in a pale yellow fawn-colou-

KI&O www.kuchinginandout.com 11

With my third and last baby bird flown away... it certainly doesn’t get any easier... quite the opposite... nest now well and truly empty. red skin are very addictive. Of course the sour ones tend to cut short my revelry after the first half a kilo or so.

The sweet ones (a careless bite into the bitter seed notwithstanding) I tell you, they transport you to another realm of reality altogether.

I wouldn’t draw a straight line linking my missing the child-

ren and gorging on langsat… but… I guess it’s a way to fill the ‘emptiness’. Imagine having a womb and house filled with three rambunctious, boisterous little people, for the past 20 years and then suddenly it’s quiet... all gone. Of course we can blame it on the hormones too. So you would forgive me the one over indulgence or two surely? But alas, the bumper crop lasts only a short while before they disappear from the makeshift stalls by the roadside.

Much like child rearing... only with us for a season.

However, unlike the langsat, children stay on in our hearts and minds and mobile phones for as long as we all shall live.

Stella Chin is a lawyer and a happy wife and mother of 3 children who enjoys writing while dancing keeps her on her toes.

12 KI&OFOODVENTURES

LANDERON, SWITZERLAND It’s a simple question. What do people outside of Kuching really think of our unique noodle dish, the kolo mee.

Deep freezing, thermal-packing and bringing it all the way to Switzerland was no hassle.

Finding an Italian chef in Switzerland, who would agree to taste something that had to be thawed out and steamed, after a twelve hour flight was a whole different story. But Chef Tino was all for it.

It was just the cooked kolo mee that I had flown over. I made the char-siew and served it with steamed prawns and vegetables.

Because the Kolo mee had been frozen, Chef Tino felt that it was a bit on the dry side. With enthusiasm he took it back to the

KI&O PHOTO: MARIAN CHIN

You say Pasta...

There is a sweetness in this «kolo mee».

Texture is delicate.

Delissimo!

Extra large kolo Mee.

Sicilian Chef Tino, owner ANTICA ROMA RESTAURANT Le Landeron, Neuchatel, Switzerland

www.kuchinginandout.com KI&O 12

...I say Noodles

KI&O PHOTO: SIMON TZIN

kitchen, added a sprinkle of boiling water, stirred it around a little, re-tasted it and declared the kolo mee, delissimo!

His wife’s comments?

«I prefer Chinese food to Italian food». Gulp.

KUCHING, E. MALAYSIA. Chef Ricky Kong, with more than thirty-five years of culinary experience, is shy but certainly jovial. When asked if he would participate in KI&Os quest for a comparison of pasta and kolo mee, he was immediately game for this battle of giants.

Chef Kong prepared Spaghetti Napoleon with tomato and Penne, of white sauce and basil.

A gentleman of few words, his humour and enthusiasm spoke noodles...I mean oodles!

Marian Chin

Both are «yummy».

It really is the best of both Chinese and Italian worlds

Ricky Kong, Executive Chef GRAND MARGHERITA HOTEL Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia KI&O www.kuchinginandout.com 13

Penne with white sauce & basil.

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KI&OcoverStory by Mel Wu

Beauty and the feast S ALOMA LISA IS A WOMAN WITH A MISSION. At an age where most people are still trying to figure out what to do with their lives, Saloma, 26, is already living her dream back in her childhood home of Kampung Sadir, Padawan.

Eleven years ago, she was in a church meeting when she decided that she wanted to give back to her own community.

The opportunity didn’t arise until she was in Kuching, taking her Diploma in Mass Communications with a major in Public Relations. She found herself inviting friends back to her kampung to celebrate Gawai Dayak or Christmas.

This was so successful that friends and some of her sisters suggested she take it to the next level, which she did by renovating her father’s house and establishing Saloma Villagestay. What she didn’t expect was to get talked down by the very people she wanted to help.

“The villagers see people coming to sleep here. For our culture, it’s not common, so they think I sleep with everyone who comes to the house, and that I have so many boyfriends.”

The first few months were difficult, with Saloma explaining over and over how a homestay concept works and coming up against mindsets that were not interested in ideas imported from the city.

She is happy that her parents are on her side now, although it wasn’t easy to have strangers traipsing through the house and joining the family on their daily activities every now and then.

“I also have to explain to my parents and they understand. It’s just the others that say what I’m doing here isn’t helping people.”

KI&O PHOTOS: SAW KANG JONG

Saloma encouraged the village women to weave and make handicrafts that her visitors could purchase as souvenirs from Kampung Sadir.

“Right now I want to help housewives in the village. They can make handicrafts during their free time. This is a way to motivate themselves. At least they know what they can do to generate income to help the family,” she said, pointing out that the village is a farming community.

In addition, the guests would also bring second hand children’s books with them to add to Saloma’s library.

“I allow the children of the village to come here and read, and I give them lessons if they don’t understand,” she said, adding that despite being shy, the kids actually speak quite good English.

She considers this a good start. The nearest primary school - SK St Bernard Sadir -

“I prepare only authentic Bidayuh dishes with freshly gathered jungle produce for all my guests.”

18

KI&OcoverStory

Calm and charm on top of the is not too far from her house. The nearest secondary school is SMK Padawan, 45 minutes from the village. Students would board near the school and only went home on weekends.

Often enough, these students would venture further out to the city and not come back. And Saloma is determined not to let them go anywhere without giving them a leg up in life.

The drive to build a better future for her people became even stronger when she travelled. Saloma made it a point to visit the rural areas of whichever country she found herself in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, China, Hong Kong, France, Switzerland and Germany.

A visit to impoverished rural Cambodia left her in tears after her tour guide said there was nothing much she could do to elevate the children there out of their hard life.

“I cannot bear to see how hard their lives are. Even when we have a hard life here, we don’t really struggle so much to get a bowl of rice.”

A recent trip to Mount Bromo in Surabaya had her speaking to sulphur collectors working there.

“They only earn about RM30 a day. They say it’s not for them, it’s for their kids. It’s enough to buy rice and vegetables for the day, but the next day they have to work hard again. You really can see they are struggling so much. They have kids in school.

They have to do it. There’s no other way.”

Her parents had to work very hard too, Saloma said. But it wasn’t the kind of hell one would find on the edge of a volcano.

“I think about my own people and it affected me so much because I always wanted to help people. When I think about the kids in this village, I really want to help them build their own future. I believe there is a potential for them to go further if there is someone helping them.”

Having the benefit of living as a city girl for a few years has come with its pros and cons. It made Saloma more aware of its things that would benefit her fellow villagers back home.

“This is something we have to improve on. If they don’t get access to this information, they will not get the benefits the government will give to us,” she said, noting that life at Kampung Sadir can pass by without its inhabitants learning about what was happening outside.

For this same reason, new people coming to the village strike a chord of wariness. Urban dwellers who visit, bringing city culture, are assumed to be “bad” because the difference is hard to accept.

A young lady of the village returning with city ideas also gets brushed aside for not understanding how things were done there.

“They don’t want to accept new ideas. When new people like me come to the village meetings and give ideas, they will tell us that we’re very young and don’t know anything,” Saloma said. www.kuchinginandout.com KI&O 18

hill “We have to convince very hard and prove to them that we can do it. But until now, I find it very difficult. Sometimes I almost give up. You have to be very strong. If you’re not, you cannot do this.”

down the conservative mindset of her fellow villagers by offering her help wherever possible.

She admits to being the stubborn type who feels the need to prove her detractors wrong.

“If we have functions in this village, I tell them I can give a hand. So I become the master of ceremonies for all the events here. I am a translator for people who come here. I help in church as well.”

“I dare to take action. When I make a mistake, I don’t see it as a problem. I see it as a new stage and try harder. I’m never scared to try new things. Nothing is impossible in this life. If other people can do it, so can I.”

What keeps her chipping down the rural mindset is a staunch belief that something will give way and she would have played a part in it. Maybe not now, and maybe not for those who are set in their ways. Saloma is looking further into the future.

If that nagging inner voice of doubt speaks up, Saloma doesn’t back down.

“I really believe that something will happen in the next few years,” she said. “I believe I can make a change.”

“Even if it’s something I think I can’t do, I tell myself I can do it. When I fall, I get up. I think that’s what keeps me here.”

Meanwhile, there are community projects to organise, a children’s library to build, and young minds to shape.

While her heart is with her people, moving back to the village after 10 years in the city also gave her a case of homesickness for urban life. The first six months were hard, almost breaking her.

There will also be visitors, whether the villagers like it or not, who will come to Kampung Sadir to experience the Bidayuh way of life.

“It was a big sacrifice coming home. Sometimes I miss the city.

But when I think about my project, when I go out and meet the kids, I don’t really miss it anymore. Now I love to be here instead of being in the city. I love nature so much.”

Now back in her element, Saloma is determined to wear KI&O KI&Owww.kuchinginandout.com www.kuchinginandout.com 19 19

Perhaps they leave a glimpse of the world they came from, and help Saloma prove her point: that changing their community for the better begins within, and begins at home.

(continued)

Piin Bekah Beras

Siyok Buruk

20 KI&OcoverStory

Herbal Tea

Kampung Chicken in Bamboo

Now for Saloma’s feast

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INGREDIENTS: Stuff tippu into the bottom of bamboo followed by chicken.

Cook over medium fire to boiling point. Add the rest of the ingredients and cook for 45 minutes. Serve.

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INGREDIENTS: Put a stalk of bekah beras and dawùn pandan in a pot the size of a kettle and boil. Add sugar or milk if desired. This drink reduces body heat..

KI&O PHOTOS BY SAW KANG JONG

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Dawùn Bandung Bawang Kusai Dawùn Timun

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Mbud Muwang Bunga Sikareh Sepor Dawùn Pandan Mbud Tugù Rukan Buwak Rukan Tugu Denget

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Bunga Tippu Dawùn Jak-kang Tebuh Sambar Bekah Beras Raee Buwak Rada Buwak Semerang

Tippu leaves, chicken, serai, puyak dien, dawun takas, tebuh sambar are not shown on photo

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Mbud Muwang

Grilled Muwang Shoot

Daw첫n Bandung Gureng

Buwak Rukan Sup

INGREDIENTS: +Tebuh sambar Shred daw첫n bandung into a coarse pulp. Fry pounded red onions, garlic, semerang and serai with tippu until yellowish in color.

Add the shredded daw첫n bandung. Mix well and add separated bunga sikareh and tebuh sambar. Fry for 5 minutes. Serve.

INGREDIENTS: +Puyak Dien, Serai + Dawun Takas Put bawak rukan, tugu rukan, serai and raee in water and boil. Add puyak and daw첫n takas. Leave for 3 minutes. Serve.

Fried Tapioca Leaves

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INGREDIENTS: Grill whole on medium open fire for 30minutes till thorny skin shrinks. Remove skin and serve. Add salt if desired.

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Rukan Seeds Soup

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Cake

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22 WELLNESS llll

Dr Umikalsom Hj Othman

Tangas Vs Spa THE MALAYS BELIEVE THAT the human body is made up of 4 elements, being Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind. A proper balance of all 4 elements is required for the total harmony of the mind, body and spirit. Therefore, the treatments offered are designed to seek a balance of all 4 elements for total physical and spiritual well-being.

Tangas is a form of traditional vapor bath practised for generations, incorporating herbs that can act as a detoxification treatment to release toxins poisonous to the body. The tangas set comprises a wooden stool with a pot of boiling herbs underneath (to hasten sweating) and a piece of cloth to entrap the vapors when the body is covered from the neck downwards.

Traditionally, the mengkuang or pandan mats used to cover the body have their own ability to produce a pleasant aroma to aid in discarding unpleasant body odors. As time goes by, the blanket (sarong tangas) has been innovated to wooden or pvc cabins or even customized to look like a wooden seat in a collapsible tent.

Tangas using herbs with astringent properties is traditionally used by young women at the end of their period to help reduce excessive white discharge, fungal infections and unpleasant odors.

KI&O www.kuchinginandout.com 35

Foldable Cabin

Also used as part and parcel of postnatal treatment, the tangas is also believed to firm up vaginal muscles and reduce inflammation.

For brides-to-be, the fragrant tangas is a must as part of bridal beauty packages. It is a 3-day treatment utilizing ingredients such as scented pandan leaves , jasmine, rose, sandalwood and cendana leaves, during the treatment the bride-to-be is wrapped with a cindai cloth effectively removing body odors.

The treatment also helps in moisturizing the dermis , making the skin soft and supple.

Tangas is a treatment suited for all individuals regardless of age, sex or race as the tangas ingredients are specially formulated to shrink wounds, accelerate the healing process, melt and remove blood clots / dirt, giving freshness and a natural recharge.

Going into a Malaysian spa that practises traditional tangas

Tangas Herbs. treatments, one will immediately notice the wonderful fragrance of herbs like serai (lemongrass), limau purut (kaffir lime), sireh (betel leaves) and pandanus as opposed to sweet smelling rose or lavender fragrance of the west. Other basic tangas ingredients are kayu serapat leaves, ginger - halia angin and halia bara and betelnut (pinang muda). The tangas treatment is not only relaxing but a preferred wellness therapy promoting healthy blood circulation and maintaining youthfulness.

Academic qualifications of Dr UMIKALSOM BT OTHMAN PhD Lifelong Learning (Camden USA, 2011), M S Pentadbiran Pendidikan (UPM, 2002), Cert. in Teaching of French (MPRM, 1999), Dip. Education (UIA, 1991) and B Sc (Hons.) in Geology (UKM, 1985).

E V ISIC & SNAKES L MU

24 KI&O Believe it or not by Alex Ang

y fascination wiith snakes began in my early childhood, watching loads of seminal nature series like David Attenborough’s “Living Planet”. An added privilege of growing up in Borneo was having the jungle in your

M

If I had been told that I would be holding a couple of snakes in my hands for an article, I am sure I would have said that my passion to hunt for obscure stories simply did not go that far.

Well…it does. Right here on Penrissen Road, Kuching, exists a great story, an extraordinary percussionist and his exceptional pets. Reactions guaranteed.

Editor

(

KINO photos by Saw Kang Jong

(

I can’t deny that ‘danger’ is part of the draw for keeping a venomous snake, but for a musician, it seemed to be an occupational hazard because of the damage a bite could inflict on fingers and limbs.

26 KI&OBelieve it or not backyard, crawling with all manner of strange critters.

At age 10 I had a sizable scorpion collection. Being able to observe them in captivity, granted me insights beyond what was typically mentioned in books. Before long, I became adept at free-handling them without getting stung, and found their notoriety to be tremendously misunderstood. My affinity for them made people rather wary of me, and I too learned what it means to be unjustly persecuted.

Inevitably, I had to shelve my unusual hobby with the onset of high school.

It would be more than 10 years before I eventually revisited it.

Don’t let the Indian snake charmers fool you into believing that they lull their serpents into a trance with their musical mastery.

Snakes don’t make very good discerning audiences without ears!

During college, music became a predominant focus in my life. I played in various bands for years before deciding to take music at university.

After graduating, I married the love of my life and moved to Kuala Lumpur where I made a living teaching and performing in the local music scene.

On my wife’s suggestion to get a pet, we realized owning a dog was impractical in an apartment. While shopping around we made an interesting discovery; the exotic pet section had a selection of snakes, lizards, and tarantulas on sale.

Hearing about what I used to keep, my wife bought me an Asian Forest Scorpion for my birthday. Quiet and needing minimal space and attention, it was the ideal apartment pet. I was

10 years old again, but this time I had discovered something new: all scorpions glow under U.V. light. – Awesome!!!

Finally, the long awaited moment was here, but I wasn’t really into the import selection of Californian King Snakes, or the baby albino python that would grow to 8 feet of inconvenience in 2 years. Through the internet, I found forums and social networks where full-fledged professionals and experienced hobbyists across the world exchanged information, for beginners like me.

For hobbyists in Europe and the U.S., the snake species they considered top-notch, were species from South East Asia – my backyard.

Challenges of Keeping Snakes and other Exotics in Kuching.

For the growing following of snake keepers in Kuching, the lack of conveniently available feeder mice or rats has compelled a few hobbyists to breed their own mice colonies and supply them to their other friends in the hobby. I personally get my supply of frozen snake food from a young chap who breeds mice to feed his own snake collection as well as supplying to others as a side-income.

I can’t deny that ‘danger’ is part of the draw for keeping a venomous snake, but for a musician, it seemed to be an occupational hazard because of the damage a bite could inflict on fingers and limbs.

Keeping any venomous snake, is a very serious ‘hobby’ that no one should assume for thrill-seeking selfgratification, especially if one wishes to live to enjoy it as the price one pays for any error is very steep. One friend of ours, a professional snakeperformer died after being bitten by a King Cobra he had kept for 4 years.

Through Facebook I started conversing with Dr. Bryan Grieg Fry; world-renowned Toxicologist and Venom Expert who asked if I could find a living Calliophis bivirgata – the Blue Malayan Coral Snake. He enthusiastically roped me into getting involved with a documentary film house that was interested in filming Asia’s 10 Deadliest Snakes.

w Nonetheless I keep a small breeding colony of my own in the event that he runs out of stock. For those keeping scorpions and tarantulas, live roaches and crickets are the feeder of choice. Crickets are readily available here at most aquarium shops but for large species of www.kuchinginandout.com KI&O 26

q

e

r scorpions and tarantulas, roaches are preferred for their meat to shell ratio.

I breed my own colonies of imported feeder roaches like Dubia roaches (Blaptica dubia) and Turkistan Roaches (Blatta lateralis).

People who know that my band practises in my reptile room often KI&O www.kuchinginandout.com 27

ask me «What does keeping snakes have to do with rock and roll?» Not a lot. Don’t let the Indian snake charmers fool you into believing that they lull their serpents into a trance with their musical mastery. Snakes don’t make very good discerning audiences without ears!

By Alex Ang

q Mice colonies, rarely used to feed the reptiles. w Scorpions glow under UV light. e Home made escape proof cages for the reptiles in the reptile room. r The band «Sumthn’ like Dat» during a recent fundraising event. Band practice is in the reptile room.

ASIA PACIFIC TOURISM HOSPITALITY AND TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCEFIRST EVER TRAVEL TECHNOLOGY AND HOSPITALITY AUTOMATION FORUM The first ever conference on travel technology and hospitality automation will be held in Kuching, Sarawak in November this year.

Initiated and organized by UCSI Communications Sdn Bhd, the Asia Pacific Tourism Hospitality and Technology Conference (APTHAT) 2013, will be held on November 21 and 22 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching.

Edward Dramberger

The inaugural conference will include conference, workshop, master-class, buyer seller session, hotel inspection and exhibition.

The conference delegates will also have the opportunity to hear success stories from some to the industry practitioners.

Director General of Tourism Malaysia Dato Mirza Mohammad Tayeb has consented to deliver the keynote address at the conference while the Minister of Tourism Sarawak Datuk Amar Abang Haji Zohari Tun Openg will grace the official opening.

Among the objectives of organizing this conference are to prepare the travel and tourism industrialists to be resilient in the competitive market that is technology driven. It is also to introduce them to the latest gadgets.

A total of six papers will be presented along with six workshops and two master-classes will be held at the conference. Among the confirmed speakers include Prof Dr Ross Dowling and Selina Power both from Australia, Dr Madahmohan Roa, E M Najeeb, Dr Harsh Varma (all from India), Edward Drawberger, (USA), Masaru Takayama (Japan) and Rohizam Md Yusoff from Malaysia.

The papers to be presented include on cruising industry in the Asia Pacific region, sustainable tourism practices and attitude for the hospitality industry, eco tourism and sustainable development, role of Professional Conference Organizer (PCO) in business tourism development for the destination, understanding Blue Ocean Strategy for strategic marketing and many more.

Prof Dr Ross Dowling

Rohizam Md Yusoff

The conference also aims at identifying opportunities that are propelled by innovations.

Apart from gathering the industry experts and players from within the Asia Pacific region to the conference, UCSI Communications also hope the event could further enhanced the State’s effort in making Sarawak a MICE (meeting, incentive, conference and exhibitions) destination in Malaysia. UCSI Communications is hoping to attract some 300 participants to the conference.

UCSI Communications, a member of the UCSI Group, is a registered Professional Conference Organizer (PCO) and had organized various events both in Sarawak and other states.

Details on the conference including fees are available online at www.apthat.com

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33 TESTIMONIAL llll

by Irene Brodie Shepherd

Brave Battles The place crowded to overflowing, the live band promising an unforgettable evening, we were all there to root for the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society.

This was the weekend where several places in Kuching had set up the Go Bald fundraising event.

One of these places was at the RUAI. BAR. When I arrived, many had already «gone» under the shaver and were beautifully beaming away. The amount of money collected kept going up, up and up.

I have met many courageous people in my life but Irene amazes me and I was bowled over with her joy despite her fight against cancer. Her spectacular dimpled smile can charm birds off a tree. Dear readers, here is one lady who can teach us a thing or two about battles in life.

Editor

«WHEN THE NEW metastases were discovered, was I scared?

Of course I was, still am. However, we’ve got it so let’s deal with it. » I try to keep positive and enjoy life. I keep clean and know that my immune system is weakened so I keep away from crowded

KI&O www.kuchinginandout.com 33

Irene being shaved bald by her daughter Karen, to raise funds for the Childrens’ Cancer Society

areas. I eat well, but choose what I eat with care, to avoid needless infections and to supplement loss of nutrients. I drink blended Sabah snake grass juice, soursop fruit, young coconut water, a ‘magic tea’ each morning to detoxify the body, a herbal tea brewed to strengthen and detoxify the liver, my brother supplies me with an essential oil extracted from seeds, etc, etc.

I have been fortunate in that family and friends surround me with their love and concern. Any offer of help is gratefully received! However, as the chemotherapy progresses, I will need more and more rest.

Karen will worry that I don’t exercise enough, so that is

something I need to make myself do to combat fatigue.

Above all, my faith in the Creator God will help me through this.

Dr. Beena has recommended 6 courses of chemotherapy to shrink the tumour in my right lung and the two in my liver but, until they respond to the treatment, I would have to go for regular pleural taps to extract the fluid to ease the discomfort. Quite impressive amounts of between 1.5 - 2.4 litres have been drained so far.

This really is a period of learning too.

I wish you all good health and a full and happy life.»

KI&O PHOTO: SAW KANG JONG

My reason for having come was two-fold. My friend Irene Brodie was going to be there and I wanted to be there especially for her.

35 CHANGE llll

by Zaiwin Kassim

My walk with innovation “THERE IS ALWAYS A BETTER WAY”, said Thomas Edison, the great inventor most remembered for his light bulb invention.

His spirit of creating, seeking & thinking of a better solution is what I embraced in my journey of being an innovator and innovation activist – if there is such a term!

In my early years, I was one of those kids who continually made their own toys. As I grew, I changed from toys to more practical stuff.

Mechatronics Engineering seemed like an obvious choice for me, and after my studies I worked as an engineer in a manufacturing company.

After years of working as an engineer, the zest of life seemed to fade out of me. That was the time when I decided to go for entrepreneurship. It was no coincidence for me to choose the automotive industry as in that year I was working on a hydroxyl generator; an innovation project named Green-e. It could save a car’s fuel and our mother-earth’s nature. The breakthrough in my innovation journey was in 2008 when my Green-e project was proposed & invited by a company from China to JV in “hybrid-ing” 1000 taxis in Xiamen. It was not a happy ending though. A week in Xiamen taught me lessons about intellectual property, business laws & deal-making.

KI&O www.kuchinginandout.com 35

KOBIS YIELD Ladder: Youth Improvisation Empowerment & Leadership Development.

Zaiwin presenting one of his innovations at Malaysia Innovation Challenge in 2010.

The effort to commercialize the Green-e continued. In 2010, I was named one of the Malaysian Innovators and my story was published in a book entitled Malaysian Innovators. In 2012, my company, Pro Auto, collaborated with UNIMAS for the Green-e project. Earlier this year, Pro Auto was named one of the Malaysian Innovative Companies by MITI (Ministry of International Trade & Industry). The best is yet to come.

Throughout the years I have learned more about innovation. I do believe that we all should embrace innovation regardless of our level of interest. Innovation solves problems, brings convenience into our lives, as well as provides a bridge toward enjoyment for many. Hence, it has become my passion to promote innovative culture to my society.

The work towards creating an innovative culture started in April

2010 during the World Creativity & Innovation Week where I organized a brainstorming session among professionals, academicians & entrepreneurs to focus on the agenda themed “Sowing the seeds for innovation culture in Sarawak”.

A year later KOBIS (Koperasi Belia Inovatif Sarawak) was born. Since then KOBIS has been actively promoting innovation to society through various approaches.

Perhaps with this platform, more and more of our youth can get inspired & committed to pursuing the innovation journey; a journey I cherish and truly enjoy.

A word from the wise: when you stumble upon something, somewhere, please be reminded “there is always a better way”.

Zaiwin Kassim is Chairman of KOBIS and CEO of Pro Auto, Kuching.

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l1 l1 DINOSAUR 2 MAISON MONICA l

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De BEAUTE l TRAFFIC GARDEN 4 YUNG KWANG CAFE l 3

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Routes Leading T

When Beauty Matters Everybody loves Aunty Monica, the little

dynamo of a lady who has been couffeuring our mums and grandmas since the 60s. We’re talking about Monica Then, hairdresser and beautician who pioneered Kuching’s beauty industry in a time when local women did not venture into business. For a hair do, you went to Monica’s home. Getting married? She came to yours for a makeover. Later, she put herself through beauty school overseas before coming back in 1971 to open Maison Monica De Beaute in Kuching’s hippiest place then – Kenyalang Park. Over time, her services expanded to beauty, make-up, nail-related services and image consultancy. Today, Maison Monica De Beaute is also a beauty academy linked to international training programmes. Monica has passed the baton to her daughter Gene as managing director of the academy, but remains ever active as Grand Poobah of this empire she created out of sheer passion and hard work.

Kuching Specialist Hospital

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Jln. Kwon Le Jln. Padunga Jln. Pending: Jln. Tun Ahm Konsulat Indo Kuching Sent Kuching Spe New Stutong Regional Bus Sarawak Plaz Semenggok W St. Joseph/St Sungai Apon Tabuan Jaya: The Spring M Timberland: 1 Waterfront (M Wisma Saber

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Psst…Bet you don’t know, but 8G there’s a dinosaur round the corner andK11 it’s the K1,largest K2 largest one in Sarawak. Probably the From Jalan Masjid one in East Malaysia! Kids have been playing at Kenyalang’s dinosaur playground with the little hidey tunnels since the late 70s. The kids have grown up, and their kids are more with asso likely stuck behind the computer, tablet or All Buses Lead T smartphone than to be playing outdoors.

BDC: K8, 8G Boulevard Sh There the old dinosaur still stands, a little Cat Museum greyer, a little lonelier, still 20 feet tall andGreen a Height Hilton Hotel: beloved fixture in the neighbourhood, Hospital Umu Jalan Astana especially for Generation X. Jalan Green: “I once told a French colleague about the Jalan Hj Taha Jalan Matang dinosaur at Kenyalang. His facial expression Jalan Satok: Jalan Stutong when we drove past it was priceless. I love Premier 101: that dinosaur!”

Jalan Masjid

de Bea u

The Hilton

Bus Routes via Bus Numbers

The Ol’ Dinosaur 3A, K3 ‘Round the Corner K8

Monica

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Maison

Sarawak Museum

Ahh, Kenyalang Park. That place that everybody knows, but so few really KNOW it. It is home to Kuching’s first theatre, where concerts and variety shows are still held. It is a lovely, self-contained little suburb in the city, where you can pretty much find everything you need.

This is a place where people know each other. Most shops here have been around for at least 40 years and they’re still run by the same people, their children, or their children’s children.

TES IN AND ABOUT KUCHING CITY

40 AREA by AREA llll Kenyalang Park

By Lu Chern & Ruyi Jing

e g a t i r e H A h t i w e Sio Be Our great-grandparents ate there. Our grandparents ate there. So did our parents, and now we’re frequenting the same kopitiam at Kenyalang Park, eating the same sio bee that has been prepared with the same secret recipe by the same family who started their business over 70 years ago. Welcome to Yung Kwang Café, the unassuming kopitiam with a formidable reputation for good food and excellent coffee. Sio bee is what they’re famous for. But it’s more than that now. Today they offer at least 20 different types of kuehs, seven varieties of paus and a suite of stalls with kolo mee, rojak, laksa, chicken rice and more. There’s something to be said about a family business that’s still growing after seven decades, don’t you think?

“Are you going to put those photos online?” The smiley lady piped out as she scooped sio bees for her customers. “Make sure you do, ah”.

‘Po h K n R ISS w song oad’UE: Pa & rk’

“Keep your head, wear a helmet”.

Hang on to your seatbelts, folks, for tucked in a corner of Kenyalang Park are the littlest traffic lights in town. Say hello to Taman Lalulintas; literally, “Traffic Garden”. This is the cutest little place with miniature traffic lights, roundabouts, road signs, petrol station, overhead bridge, roads and everything else to do with traffic.

Best of all, they are all fully functional. It’s like walking in tropical Toyland. The little park was built as a learning aid on traffic safety and rules for children’s traffic clubs in primary schools. Children’s traffic clubs??

How many of us even knew these clubs existed?

It’s grown into a real neighbourhood gem because residents use it as an exercise park too. Catch a glimpse at that uncle jogging past a red light and young children riding their tricycles on the wrong side of the road!

NE ‘Gr XT ee

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THE LITTLEST TRAFFIC LIGHTS IN KUCHING

42 NITE SPOTS llll

When hunger strikes 12

Kuching may be a town of early risers and school runs, but after midnight, a new crowd is out and about and, like all Kuching people, they too must eat whatever the hour. So, all around town are eateries catering to their tastes, serving staples like bubur and kolo mee as well as some more exotic fare. You just need to know where to find them…

OPEN AIR MARKET (Jalan Khoo Han Yeang)

ARIF HOTEL OPEN AIR FOOD COURT (Jalan Haji Taha)

On the edge of the Malay Kampung, looking up at the City Mosque is the Arif Hotel, in business since the 1953 but now more famous for the various food places that have built up around it. This area is a favourite with Malays; halal options are the standard. The more unusual Sup Tulang is a good choice in the food court itself, as well as Roti Canai and Ayam Penyet. Across the road is reputably the site of the first ever Ayam Penyet stall in Sarawak – the dish an import from Indonesia. Here, there are a number of eateries, like Lot 1, in a series of picturesque, higgledy-piggledy buildings, painted all the colours of the rainbow.

This is a popular spot for both local Malays and West Malaysian and Indonesian tourists alike.

The grand-daddy of eating establishments in Kuching, the open air market, has plied its trade for over a century and, despite a recent renovation, it seems like little has changed in that time.

Famous for its seafood, you can choose from a vast array of fresh produce, lying out in wait for your selection. After midnight, when many of the stallholders have shut up shop for the night, the bubur stalls swing into action. This has been a favourite place since the Sixties to take a date for a last bite and up until today is full after midnight with all kinds of people, as well as a few courting couples. It may not seem wonderfully romantic at first glance, but the air of the place just cannot be missed.

PETANAK MARKET (Jalan Petanak) This market starts early, filling up with vegetable and meat wholesalers and their customers long before the sun is up.

Head upstairs for a good selection of the usual late night suspects (bubur, kolo mee) amidst the clamour of the market. It is also a one stop shop for kueh: Nyonya kueh, Eu Char Kueh and, particularly, its famous kueh chap. This is a working market and looks and smells like one! But don’t let the surroundings put you off – actually Petanak Market has one of the best views in Kuching looking out over the stillness of the river at night. Plus, there is the added bonus of being able to do your shopping after you’ve had your fill.

www.kuchinginandout.com KI&O 42

midnight... PART 1 / by Karen Shepherd LOK LOK (Jalan Ban Hock)

NEW ATMOSFERAH (Simpang Tiga)

Lok Lok’s sign alone has made it a landmark; its neon light blaring out its location late into the night. From its beginnings 30 years ago as a roadside nasi lemak stall, this place has grown and grown, now occupying two shoplots; and yet its tables still spill out into the street in front of it. Choose from a vast selection of lok lok, from delicate quail eggs and oysters to crab sticks and reformed unidentifiable meat balls, plus the nasi lemak is still delicious.

The newest kid in this line-up, this aptly named coffee shop is conveniently located near Swinburne University – perfect for pulling in all the students stumbling home after a late night. Now open 24 hours, you can stop in here for your late night fix of Roti Canai, Nasi Briyani and other, more obscure Pakistani delicacies – it even boasts a traditional naan oven.

A great name – both a greeting and an invitation – this relative newcomer to the Kuching night scene features arguably the most beautiful bubur in Kuching, adorned by a fan of sliced century egg. Although newly built, it has an old Kuching feel to its décor, with its Chinese lanterns and old style coffee cups. Yet, it is a favourite haunt of big bikers – its owner is one himself - the hardware parked outside and pictured on the walls are unmistakeably modern.

Bubur with sliced century egg.

KI&O www.kuchinginandout.com 43

KI&O PHOTOS: SAW KANG JONG

CIAK PA BOI (3rd Mile, Jalan Penrissen)

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BUS ROUTES IN AND ABOUT KUCHING CITY

44 «NEXT STOP» llll

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BUS ROUTES IN AND ABOUT KUCHING CITY

Bus Routes via Bus Numbers Bus Routes via Bus Numbers 3A, K3 K8 8G

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PRINT AND DIGITAL MAGAZINE LAUNCHED 1 ST ISSUE WITH THE Bus Stop ST 1 KUCHING BUS ROUTES MAP ND OF MARCH, 2013 Taxi StandON THE 22

TOURIST INFORMATION Routes Leading To Popular Destinations Routes Popular Destinations Tourist Police Unit (Kuching Waterfront) / 082-250522 withLeading associated busTo numbers

ABC Taxi / 082-341818 Airport-Kuching International Airport / 082-454242 BDC: K8, 8G Immigration Department / 082-245661 Boulevard Shopping Mall: 2, K3, K6, K10, K13, 3A, 6 BDC: K8, 8G Cat Museum: K5, K5C, K15 Kuching City Taxi Radio Call Enterprises / 082-348898 Boulevard Shopping Mall: 2, K3, K6, K10, K13, 3A, 6 Green Heights Commercial Center: 8G Cat Museum: K5, K5C, K15 Taxi (Red and Yellow colour) / 082-882466 Hilton Hotel: K2, K2, K16 Green Heights Commercial Center: 8G Hospital Umum: 1F/1FA, 2, 3A, 6, 1C,K6, K8, K10, K13, K18, K17, 8G Tourist Information Centre / 082-246575 Hilton Hotel: K2, K2, K16 Jalan Astana: K5, K5C, K15 Hospital Umum: 1F/1FA, 2, 3A, 6, 1C,K6, K8, K10, K13, K18, K17, 8G Jalan Green: K12 Executive Taxi / 082-480000 Jalan Astana: K5, K5C, K15 Jalan Hj Taha: K12, K18 Jalan Green: K12 CONSULATES AND EMBASSIES Jalan Matang: K7 Jalan Hj Taha: Jalan Satok: K7, K5, K5C, K15 K12, K18 Australian Honorary Consul / 082-23350 Jalan Matang: K7 Jalan Stutong: 8G, K8 Brunei Consulate / 082-312681 Premier 101: 8G Jalan Satok: K7, K5, K5C, K15 Stutong: 8G,green K8 buses departs-final station are from here) Jalan Masjid (BusJalan Station yellow and Chinese Consulate / 082-233816 Premier 101: 8G Jln. Kwon Lee Bank: K2,K1, K16 Jalan (Bus Station yellow and green buses departs-final station are from here) Jln. Padungan: K2, K1, Masjid K11, K16 Consulate of the United Kingdom / 082-207272 Jln. Pending: K2,Jln. K1, Kwon K16 Lee Bank: K2,K1, K16 Jln. Padungan: K2, K1, K11, K16 French Honorary Consul / 082-415588 Jln. Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce: K12, Jln. 8G, Pending: K2, K1, K16 Konsulat Indonesia: K8 Indonesia Consulate / 082-460734 Jln. Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce: K12, Kuching Sentral Station: K3, K6, K10, K13 Konsulat 8G, K8 Kuching Specialist Centre:Indonesia: K8 Immigration Office / 082-245661 Kuching New Stutong Market: K8 Sentral Station: K3, K6, K10, K13 Sarawak Government Office / 082-222222 Kuching Specialist Centre: K8 Regional Bus Terminal: 1FA, 2, 3A, K3, K6, K10, K13, 6 New Market: K8 Sarawak Plaza: K2, K1,Stutong K11, K16 HOMESTAYS Regional Semenggok Wildlife: K6, 6,Bus Terminal: 1FA, 2, 3A, K3, K6, K10, K13, 6 Sarawak Annah Rais Longhouse / 016 885 4428 St. Joseph/St. Teresa: K18,Plaza: K8 K2, K1, K11, K16 Semenggok K6, 6, Sungai Apong (fishing village): Wildlife: K2 Saloma’s VIllagestay, Kampung Sadir / 016-8682525 Tabuan Jaya: K8 St. Joseph/St. Teresa: K18, K8 (fishing village): K2 The Spring Mall: Sungai K8, K11,Apong 8G Benuk Homestay / 019 8498413 Tabuan2, Jaya: K8 K10, K13, K18, K17, 3A, 6 Timberland: 1C, 1F/1FA, K3, K6, Hilton Batang Ai Longhouse Resort / 082-584388 Spring K8, K11, Waterfront (Main The Bazaar): K2 ,Mall: K1, K11, K16 8G K3, K17, K6, K10, Wisma Saberkas:Timberland: 3A , 2, 6, 1C1C, K3, 1F/1FA, K8, K10,2,K13, 8G K13, K18, K17, 3A, 6 Iban Homestay / 085 738233 Waterfront (Main Bazaar): K2 , K1, K11, K16 Wisma Saberkas: 3A , 2, 6, 1C K3, K8, K10, K13, K17, 8G Kampung Melayu Tebekang / 019 83433182 Kampung Siol Kandis / 082-44700 DIRECTORY POLICE STATIONS Kampung Telaga Air / 082 843207 EMERGENCY District Police HQ - Kuching, Royal Malaysian Mongkos / 019 8686653 Emergency Line / 082-365030 Police, Jln Simpang Tiga / 082-241133 Nanga Damia (Luxury homestay) / 019-8871017 Civil Defense / 991 Central Station. Jln Khoo Hun Yeang / 082-241222 Permai Rainforest Resort (Tree houses and cabins) Fire / 994 Satok Station. Jln Nagor / 082-245522Fire / 994 082-846487 / 90 From mobile to phone /112 Gita Station. Jln Matang / 082- 254417 Santubong homestay / 06 082 422495 Police and Ambulance / 999 Santubong Station / 082-846222 HOME SERVICES Police emergency service /999 Padungan Statio. Jln Kemajuan / Tel: 082-335930 Beratok HOSPITALS The Commission of The City of Kuching North Station. Jln Kuching-Serian / 082- 864235 Kuching Specialist Hospital KG / 082-365384 082-234654 Kuching Specialist Hostpital Sdn Bhd / 082-365777 Sekama Station. Jln Sekama / 082-332522 Council of the city of Kuching South / 082-354200 Multimedia Specialist & Maternity Centre / 082-428885 Sg. Maong Station. Jln Tun Hj. Mohd. Adruce / 082-256800 Post Office-Pos Malaysia-Kuching / 082-347677 Normah Medical Specialist Centre / 082-440055 Kota Padawan (Batu 10) Station. Kota Padawan 16 Km, SESCO-Electricity Service / 1 300 - 88 3111 Sarawak General Hospital / 082-276666 Jln. Kuching-Serian / 082- 612222 Astro / 1 300 - 82 3838 Sarawak Medical Centre / 082-442088 Siburan Station. Km 27, Jln. Kuching-Serian / 082-864121 TM / Fax No : 082-239 257 Timberland Emergency Medical Service / 082-232259 Tapah Station. 082-867236 Resources: TImberland Medical Centre / 082-234466 Wisma Saberkas Station. Wisma Saberkas / 082-253535 http://www.sarawak.gov.my/ PHARMACIES Police Station Tabuan Jaya / 082-360999 http://www.epharma.com.my/address.html Guardian / 082-613259 Watson’s Personal Care Store / 082-239091 Police Patrol (24Hrs) / 082-244444 Sarawak Tourism Board Kuching City Parking System Office (KCPS) City Public Link Bus Services Sdn. Bhd. Sarawak Transport Company Berhad http://www.kurakura.asia/contact-us/ Homestay Directory - http://right.sarawak.gov.my/ design by Syed Rusydie KI&O City Parking System Office (KCPS) City Public Link Bus Services Sdn. Bhd. Sarawak Transport Company Berhad REFERENCES: KuchingKuching City Parking System Office (KCPS), City Public Link Bus Services Sdn. Bnd, Sarawak Transport Company Berhad. homestay

with associated bus numbers

and From Jalan Masjid * All Buses LeadAll ToBuses * Lead To and From Jalan Masjid * *

KI&O Design: SyedKI&O Rusydiedesign by Syed Rusydie

46 BOOKS llll

(Continued from the previous issue of KI&O)

There was something beautiful about the friendship between mother and Auntie Nona. Both, I was told, had come from China. Their ages were about the same, their builds similar. Mother was attractive but Auntie Nona was considered a very beautiful woman. She had jet black hair, an exquisitely formed oval face and fair soft skin without blemish, but her singular attraction lay in her brown eyes that could be wise and serious, or twinkle with mischievous merriment. The two women were dressed alike, in sarung and long kebaya reaching well below their knees; their hair was braided in a kundai and kept in place with ornamental gold or silver hairpins. They wore a triple kerosang of pure gold securing the loosely open kebaya with bangles to match, a silver belt formed of a series of loops and squares, ending in a dragon head, and leather slippers with beaded, floral-patterned straps.

Mother and Auntie Nona often spent hours in conversation or needlework.

They understood each other perfectly. Yet

The Book To order this newly republished book, log in: www.facebook.com/ thenyonyaproduction or email: info@kuchinginandout.com RM20.(excluding shipping & handling)

by John Michael Chin Ching Shang

mother would never say anything about Auntie Nona’s early life which had intrigued me since, as a child old enough to understand, I overheard a chance conversation between my parents which showed that Auntie Nona had lived in our house when father himself was a young man.

“Tell me, Auntie Nona, if it is true that you used to live in our house when you were a little girl?” I asked her one day.

She answered with a disarming smile, “You are too young, my little one, to worry about what happened to a little girl many years ago.”

She neither confirmed nor denied the fact, and Auntie Nona remained in my child’s mind as great a mystery as ever. She was somehow different from other people.

She lived in a rambling brick house, alone except for her daughter and a servant, and she was a widow. Her husband had been a European engineer working for the Borneo Company in their Bau gold mines.

She was a very clever woman. She spoke Bazaar Malay and even wrote in the Romanized version of the language. She un-

derstood a good deal of conversational English and talked knowledgeably with my father on various topics. She was my Auntie Nona, a second mother to me. Mother knew my feelings and more than once said to her, “Sister Nona, why don’t you adopt Thiam Hock and let him call you mother?

He adores you, you know.” But Auntie Nona always refused saying that Nona Ee, or Auntie Nona, suited her well enough.

When mother and Auntie Nona talked, I played with Sarah. She was sent to a Convent School and I accompanied her as the nuns also taught little boys in those days. I stayed on till I was old enough to tease the girls until they cried, or pull the hair of the little ones, whereupon I was sent across the road to the big boys’ school.

My father, in spite of his strict Chinese upbringing, was a liberal man and farsighted.

He decided that his son should have an English education over and above the Chinese clasics which I had begun to learn.

“You shall go to an English school and learn the best of both worlds,” he said to me.

(To be continued on the next issue)

The Drama The amazing success of the Live Drama performed by JC Production Company took place on the 24th and 25th of May. Scenes of the drama can be viewed at: www.facebook.com/ thenyonyaproduction PHOTO BY CHRISTINA THOMAS MAMORA

The Nyonya

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