The Nanyang Chronicle Vol 22 Issue 03

THE NANYANG

CHRONICLE

VOL. NO.

22

03 21.09.15

ISSN NO. 0218-7310

GAME ON

SPORTS | 20 PHOTO | 10

COOL OFF

DAPPER | 12

News

Foreign students face pinch as regional currency rates fall Malaysian and Indonesian students most affected by the recent fluctuation in currency rates

for example. We also try to eat on campus,” she said.

She plans to apply for a doubleroom next year as the hall fees are cheaper and she feels that the ringgit may not strengthen.

Hopes that the ringgit will recover are dim as poor confidence in Malaysia’s domestic economy are weakening its currency, said CIMB economist Song Seng Wun. “Currently, Malaysia has quite a bit of overriding negative sentiment in its local economy, stemming from corruption and the controversy over 1Malaysia Development Berhad,” said Mr Song.

“Until these sentiments change or foreign investors become more supportive of Malaysia’s economic fundamentals, a rise in the ringgit may still be some time away,” he said.

Loh Pui Ying Prisca Ang

S

ince the ringgit started to freefall in June this year, Jacqueline Ng, a secondyear student from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, began cutting down on buying groceries at the Giant supermarket near Canteen 2.

Instead, she makes her purchases when she returns to Johor Bahru (JB) during weekends.

“I now get my hall supplies like tissue, shampoo and snacks at the Giant outlet in JB,” the 20-year-old said.

She is able to save on a pack of Vitagen, for instance, by getting them at approximately half the price back in JB. Ng accompanies her parents on weekly trips to Malaysia to visit relatives. Her family members — who are currently based in Singapore — have also started buying their groceries in JB. They save more than $200 a month by shopping in Malaysia, despite having to pay for the recently increased Vehicle Entry Permit fee of RM20 ($6.56).

“Before the ringgit fell, I was not as conscious of my spending (in Singapore). There is now more value for money in Malaysia,” Ng added.

Like Ng, international students from regional countries hit by falling currencies are resorting to different measures to finance their education at NTU. The ringgit began dipping in February this year. On 24 Aug, it sank below 3 against the Singapore dollar for the first time ever, before plunging further. The ringgit currently measures 3.02 against the Singapore dollar (as at 19 Sep).

The Indonesian rupiah plunged 13.2 per cent this year. It was Asia’s worst performing currency after Malaysia.

Against the strengthening Singapore dollar, the exchange rate is now $1 to 10,367.74 rupiah.

The Australian dollar has also taken a hit. In July this year, the currency slipped below the Singapore dollar for the first time since 2009.

Financial assistance WATERED DOWN: The Malaysian Ringgit is now worth approximately one-third of the Singapore Dollar, leaving Malaysians with less spending power in Singapore.

YEAR ON YEAR: A comparison of how much basic items in Singapore cost for Malaysian students in 2014 and 2015.

GRAPHICS: KIMBERLY ANG

Cutting costs

Indonesian student Winona Wijaya, 17, a first-year student from the Asian School of the Environment, was already grappling with her family’s financial difficulties before the rupiah fell.

“To cope with rising costs, I buy breakfast in bulk. I purchase a $2 pack of bread that lasts me a week, and only reward myself with more expensive food occasionally,” she said.

Maybel Ooi, 20, a first-year student from the School of Computer Engineering, said the largest increase in expenses is on hall rent and school fees.

The Malaysian added that they are the most costly expenses for foreign students.

She now has to pay RM200 more than before for her single room in Hall 16, which costs $380 monthly.

She has cut down her daily

expenses as much as possible to reduce the financial burden on her parents, who are paying her tuition fees.

Ooi, who started studying in Singapore three years ago when she was a polytechnic student, said she cooks more frequently in her hall instead of eating out with friends.

“Sometimes, my friends and I skip meals. If not, we combine them. Breakfast becomes brunch,

The higher fees have spurred students to look for financial aid.

Ooi, who is on a Singapore government tuition grant, pays S$15,900 or about half her original tuition fees.

She is also applying for an OCBC tuition fee loan, which would cover up to $6,360 of her fees.

Tuition grants and loans, however, do not cover additional expenses like hall rent.

These can be supplemented through NTU’s Work Study Scheme.

Under the scheme, students can take up jobs in the university — either on a one-off basis or for a longer term.

This depends on the needs of the school or office, said Jasmine Truong, Deputy Director of NTU’s Office of Admissions and Financial Aid. “The range of jobs available are listed and the student puts in an application if he is interested. The school or office will consider the applicant based on his suitability for the job,” she added.

Lingeswaran Manidar, 19, a Malaysian from the School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, is planning to take up part-time jobs at NTU. These may include stints at One Stop @ SAC or at the library, where the pay of $8 per hour is quite generous and working hours are flexible, said the first-year student.

“Although I’m not financially strapped, people studying in a foreign country have to be financially savvy.

“This includes being prepared for any emergency situation which has to do with money,” said Manidar.

THE NANYANG

22

NEWS

VOL. NO.

CHRONICLE 03

03

Additional shuttle eases line at CCK Snaking queues and missed buses due to overcrowding lessen after extra service started on Sep 1 at Choa Chu Kang MRT Loh Pui Ying Shermane Wong

A

n extra service added to the Choa Chu Kang MRT shuttle is helping more students get on the free bus to NTU. A new 7.55am service started on 1 Sep. This is in addition to the four existing timings: 7.40am, 7.50am, 8am, and 8.10am.

Before the additional service was added, many students waiting in line often found themselves unable to get on.

“Previously, about 20 to 30 students had to be turned away due to limited seats," said Chief Housing and Auxiliary Services Officer Jimmy Lee. With the additional bus timing, more students are now able to utilise the shuttle bus services, he added.

Hannah Ong Ming Xian, 22, a final-year student at Nanyang Business School (NBS) who did not manage to board the bus on two occasions, welcomed the additional timeslot.

ALL ABOARD: A bus warden waits for the bus driver to close the door after the last student boards and is safely seated.

She said: “I had to call a taxi to travel to school on one occasion, and was really late for my 8.30am class on another (after taking public transport).”

“I'm very happy the school has acted on our feedback to improve the shuttle service.

“I am grateful but it would be even better if every one of us is allocated a spot on the shuttle bus and not have to take a chance eve-

ry morning. Consistent monitoring of the demand of the shuttle is necessary,” she added.

Amanda Woon, 19, a first-year student from the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information (WKWSCI), said: “The new timeslot is better because this would mean there is more space.”

Chong Zhi Yin, a third-year student from NBS, agreed: “It’s great to have another bus. The crowd is

Exhibiting medicine's heart

transport or taxis.

Joni Edyn Sng, 20, a first-year student from WKWSCI, remained doubtful that one additional bus would be sufficient to cater to all students. She added that the queue still extended across the overhead bridge.

“There are so many people who take the shuttle bus. It’ll be good to have another one at 8.20am,” she said.

Letters remembering Mr Lee Kuan Yew SIX students from the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information and the School of Art, Design and Media presented Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong with a book of people's memories of the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew last Wed (16 Sep).

Holly Matthews FROM rare photos of nursing during Singapore’s pioneer years to a modern life-size army tent, a new exhibition at NTU brings to life the human side of medical care.

The display of photographs, artifacts and personal accounts commemorates humanitarian medicine by presenting a side of the profession not often seen in Singapore, said Ms Caroline Pang, deputy director and head of NTU’s medical library.

Ms Pang organised the exhibition, titled Humanity in Medicine – A Look at the Past and Forward to the Future, in four months. She worked with deputy director Ms Suzanne Lim, head of development and alumni relations for LKCMedicine, and Ms Faith Teh, head of the NTU museum.

They conceptualised the exhibition after speaking to LKCMedicine’s Professor Lionel Lee, executive vice-head of administration, who wanted to do something to emphasize the school’s patientcentric ethos.

Seeking to imbue in students a sense of community service, the exhibition features exemplary individuals who serve as role models, said Ms Pang.

Philanthropist Tan Tock Seng’s

quite insane sometimes. If I reach at 7.30am, the queue is already over the stairs of the overhead bridge. That’s around 100 people.”

A bus warden is present to count the maximum number of people who can board each shuttle bus and informs those in the queue when the bus is full.

Students who are unable to board the bus then have to seek alternatives such as taking public

PHOTO: HILLARY TAN

The team of second-year students — Ernest Chan, Matthew Yang, Leila Lai, Jonathan Lim, Kapilan Naidu and Sharmayne Ng — gathered close to 200 letters of appreciation. Most of the letters were written during the seven-day national mourning period earlier this year (23 - 29 Mar). The students then compiled the letters into a book.

In a Facebook post, PM Lee said: "They printed only two copies — one for themselves, and one for me. It is a very special gift, which I will treasure."

PHOTO: ERNY LUIZA KARTOLO CURATING HUMANITY: Exhibition curators (from left to right) Faith Teh, Caroline Pang and Suzanne Lim, selected pieces like this tapestry — an embroidered thank-you letter from a Yunnan village to a Singaporean doctor.

work is showcased in the exhibition. Current efforts by organisations and individuals providing medical aid worldwide are also featured.

From within the displays are rare photographs of Singapore’s early days depicting scenes like traditional nurses tending to patients in ethnic garb, and a life-sized mock-up of a Singapore Armed Forces medic’s tent.

Ms Pang said: “We wanted people who showed compassion, humility, integrity. It’s a theme that runs through the whole exhibition.”

A smaller, mobile exhibition will also be shown at Lee Wee Nam Library from 5 to 23 Oct, before mov-

ing on to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Nanyang Polytechnic and various schools throughout 2016.

The exhibition is held at the communal space in the new Experimental Medicine Building (EMB).

The seven-storey smart building opened in July, with five floors dedicated to research and teaching facilities. In addition to laboratories, there is also a 150-seater learning studio, whose circular design increases student discussions and interactions.

The EMB is part of NTU’s Life Sciences cluster. It has an 11-metre-wide link bridge connecting it to the School of Biological Sciences.

The team is considering printing more copies after members of the public requested to purchase the book.

PM Lee and NTU students took a jump shot after the book presentation at the Istana.

PHOTO: ALEX QIU, PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE

Lifestyle beauty

BLOWN AWAY R

eady to spice up my usual boring look, I opted for the Perfect Blow Out with Curlers ($55) at The Big Blow, Singapore’s latest blow-dry bar, to add some drama to my hair.

The Big Blow’s co-founder, Ms Ellie Sakrzewski, started washing, drying and rolling my hair, section by section, leaving me with a head full of rollers within a quick half an hour.

Impressed with her speed, I was excited to see the final result.

“I wanted a place where ladies could just come in and get ready for their day out,” she shared while curling my hair.

Ms Sakrzewski, who is Australian, brought the concept of The Big Blow from the United States to our shores in April 2014. The convenience of the

service — wash, blow, dry — is something that keeps customers coming back. She says that weekends bring in the biggest crowds, with people wanting to look good for their parties and dinners.

The whole treatment ended in around 40 minutes, but the results left me astounded. My usually razored hair was replaced by voluminous locks à la Marilyn Monroe.

What blew me away was how the entire process took under an hour; a perm at a hair salon would have taken a few hours.

The best part: my curls, produced from scratch under Ms Sakrzewski’s magical fingers, lasted for a good eight hours.

Fifty-five dollars, however, is a hefty price tag for such a specialised service.

Maybe I’ll have to make do with blowdrying my own hair for now.

-Ariel Pang

THE BIG BLOW

501 Bukit Timah Road #02-21, Cluny Court S259760 BLOW WIND BLOW: Locks of hair are being dried and curled with quick succession at The Big Blow.

Opening hours: 8am - 7pm daily

They function like your usual hair salon, except that they only offer blowdrying services. Despite its rarity, the hype over blow-dry bars is catching on. Lifestyle Writers Ariel Pang and Claudia Chong check out two such places to find out what makes this niche business tick.

I HAD my tresses doused in Evian water during my blow-dry session at Prep.

It was an odd sensation to have my hair washed with something I usually drink, but my hairstylist, Mr Thomas Lee, explained that Evian water was the signature element in the Evian Blowout ($60) that I chose.

Prep is the first blow dry-bar to be introduced in Singapore. They are dedicated to washing and blow-drying their customers’ hair to the style that they desire.

“Evian water has a purifying effect,” he said, while rinsing my hair thoroughly with the mineral water.

It helps to remove product residue, such as dregs of shampoo, he added.

A hot towel was wrapped around my head to soften my hair, before it was blown-dry.

Meanwhile, I was offered a refreshing Evian facial spray that served not only as a cool relief from the heat of the towels, but also as a great perk-me-up.

Using a hot iron, Mr Lee then expertly curled my hair. The curls — with its looser rings — created a windswept look, and were perfectly suited for my round face.

I noticed that the act of blow-drying plays a minor role in the blowout sessions that Prep offers. They focus on incorporating unique ingredients that are

PHOTOS: HILLARY TAN WIND IN HER HAIR: The Evian Blowout is a twist on the basic blowouts that most blow-dry bars offer.

beneficial for healthy hair. For instance, the salon’s most popular blowout, the Geisha Blowout ($70), makes use of only premium Shu Uemura hair products.

While the treatments at the salon are a little steep, I think it is worth the occasional pamper session.

-Claudia Chong

PREP

333A Orchard Road #03-34, Mandarin Gallery S238897 Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 10am - 8pm Sunday: 11.30am - 7.30pm

BEAUTY’S NOT SKIN DEEP

The local skincare scene is now placing more emphasis on exfoliating scrubs — ones that promise to leave skin smooth and supple while being handmade with quality organic ingredients. Lifestyle Editor Chelsea Tang tries out two such products to see how well they fare.

SKIN FOOD: The ingredients in the Asahi body scrub are nourishing for the skin.

T

he Asahi body scrub ($21) is an embodiment of the Japanese word which means ‘morning light’, and hints at what it will have your skin looking like — bathed in the warm glow of dawn.

Made entirely from natural ingredients like orange peels, rice powder and virgin coconut oil, this acne-treating artisan scrub will leave your skin feeling fresh, hydrated, and radiant.

THE VERDICT

THE VERDICT

I was greeted by the sweet scent of brown sugar instead of the citrusy fragrance I thought I would get from the orange peels in the scrub.

That said, hints of tanginess could be detected from the exfoliating paste after it was mixed in with water, despite the scrub smelling a little cloying in its powdered form.

The exfoliating process was therapeutic because I was able to control the coarseness of the scrub to my preference by adding the amount of water I desired.

To better enjoy the process, users can also create an exfoliating paste by mixing in milk or yogurt. This not only soothes the skin but also further moisturises it.

The scrub also stayed faithful to what it promised after use. My skin felt smooth, moisturised, and freed from extra sebum and unwanted blackheads.

Truth be told, I was intrigued by the novel flavour of the lip scrub when I first received it.

It was easy to get hooked onto the distinct and concentrated tropical fragrance of coconut that was all contained in a little tub.

While the scent did not disappoint, everything else did.

Application of the lip scrub was messy — it was more grainy than pasty, and that made it hard for the scrub to stick to my lips even when it was damp.

Although my lips did feel smoother, the ordeal that I went through in the application process, which made me use way more product than necessary, was absolutely not worth it. It does however, aid me in applying my lipstick smoothly.

Apart from the scent, this lip scrub leaves something to be desired.

SHUANG SCRUBS www.shuangscrubs.com

LIP SERVICE: Despite the messy application process, the Coconut Sorbet Lip Scrub had a pleasant taste.

PHOTOS: HILLARY TAN

PACKED with organic virgin coconut oil and coconut flesh, the Coconut Sorbet Lip Scrub ($7.90) from Handmade Heroes stood out from the usual honey-andsugar combination that most lip scrubs are made of. The coconut-flavoured lip scrub promises to gently exfoliate and hydrate lips, leaving you with a sweet coconut aftertaste.

SHUANG SCRUBS HANDMADE HEROES www.handmade-heroes.com

VOL. NO.

22

LIFESTYLE

THE NANYANG

03 CHRONICLE

05

foodsnoop

SUNSET ON THE RISE

The sun never sets on Sunset Lane. This revitalised food enclave in the West is now experiencing a new dawn with various eateries sporting a fresh new look. Lifestyle Editors Chelsea Tang and Fabian Loo take a gastronomical trip to uncover some of the best bites there.

F

ollowing a revamp earlier this year, Sunset Lane now offers casual and al fresco dining experiences for people living in the West. Tucked away in the most unassuming of places — under a block of

HDB flats — this newly-refurbished food enclave might seem unremarkable at first glance. But upon closer scrutiny, the place is teeming with restaurants offering cuisines of all sorts, from Japanese to Brazilian.

Seafood surprise

Meat-ing expectations DRAWN by the fragrance of roasted meat and catchy Brazilian music, we quickly nestled ourselves in the comforts of the al fresco dining area of Carne & Caipirinha.

For those with hearty appetites, this is a stop you won’t want to miss. Priding itself on being the only charcoal-fired churrascaria (Portuguese term for barbecue) in Singapore, meats from the Brazilian meat buffet restaurant are slow-roasted and served piping hot.

Our inner carnivores squealed with delight at the extensive buffet line and unlimited servings of meat served by passadors (chefs and servers).

Among the wide variety of grilled meats, we were introduced to the restaurant’s specialty protein, the beef hump. Combined with a savoury marinade and hints of smokiness from the charcoal, the tender beef melted in our mouths, and we immediately longed for seconds.

Apart from all the meats we tried, something else stood out — the grilled pineapple. Of all the places we might encounter roasted fruit, right?

Roasting the pineapples removed any trace of its acidity and created a slightly charred exterior, providing a mild crunch.

Upon biting into it, we were greeted with the warm flesh of the pineapple and a smoky aftertaste that went surprisingly well with the sweet pineapple juices.

It served as a great dish to cleanse our palates after rounds of savoury meats.

Carne & Caipirinha also caters to those with adventurous appetites. One can tuck into exotic meats like beef rump caps and chicken hearts, in addition to the usual sausages and ham.

A sweet affair A GOOD dessert can complete your meal in sinful bliss. With a name like Buttercake N Cream, this café seemed like the right place for sweet treats.

Upon stepping into this quaint little café, we realised it was nothing like the other dining establishments on Sunset Lane.

Whimsical and rustic, trinkets and fairy lights dot its ceiling, setting the mood for a cosy dining experience.

Their menu items were just as eccentric.

We had their trademark Rainbow Lemonade ($8), which sounded too special to miss.

Served in a sugar-rimmed cup with layers of multi-coloured lemonade and topped with a scoop of lemon sorbet, this dessert beverage looks every bit as impressive as it sounds.

Expect a kaleidoscope of colours, from the beautiful spectrum of blue, yellow and redcoloured lemonade, to rainbow sprinkles and a rainbow gummy crowning the concoction.

While the drink scored in terms of aesthetic appeal, the same could not be said for its taste.

A dull and toxic-looking shade of blue

FRESH OFF THE HOOK: The selection of sashimi in the Deluxe Sashimi Platter is randomly chosen by chefs.

MEAT AND GREET: Passadors are more than willing to recommend and introduce different cuts of meat to customers.

A word of advice: forget the appetisers and get more bang for your buck by jumping right into the star of the buffet line — the meats. Prices start at $49.90 for adults.

CARNE & CAIPIRINHA Block 106, Clementi Street 12, Sunset Lane #01-50 S120106 Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday: 5.30pm - 11.30pm Sunday: 5pm - 11.30pm

emerged after we stirred the layers together.

It was a little too sweet as well, and the zest and tartness that we expected was conspicuously missing.

However, we quickly recovered from our disappointment when the Warm Chocolate Pudding ($11) was served with vanilla sauce and a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream.

While its presentation was nothing compared to the Rainbow Lemonade, we found ourselves polishing off this humble dessert faster than it took waiting for it.

Made with dark chocolate, the warm pudding was like a cross between a soufflé and molten lava cake, with a moist pudding cake enveloping a molten centre that oozed chocolate sauce when cut into.

The vanilla ice cream and sauce complemented the chocolate pudding, creating the perfect bittersweet combination.

It seems like the saying “do not judge a book by its cover” really holds true at Buttercake N Cream.

Forget about aesthetically pleasing presentations and opt for the humble-looking desserts for a sweet end to your meal.

IF THERE is one thing this restaurant specialises in, it would probably be the element of surprise.

We had one of its bestselling dishes, the Deluxe Sashimi Platter (from $68), which consists of approxiamtely 18 slices of fresh sashimi curated by the chef. The sashimi served to customers is dependent on whatever fish the restaurant has flown in from Japan for the week. This means the platter combination changes every week — you’ll never know what’s in store.

Our sashimi selection featured slices of butterfish, among the usual suspects like salmon and tuna. This dish was bursting with freshness — the raw fish slices were sweet, toothsome and as high-quality sashimi goes, left us wanting more. The butterfish was especially commendable, in terms of richness, compared to the other sashimi slices.

Rather than being greasy, the sashimi carried a sweet aftertaste that lingered at the back of our tongues. In fact, there was no need for the soy sauce dip to enhance its taste.

We also had the UFO Maki ($12), which came highly recommended. Once again, the chef would determine the filling of the maki (a Japanese dish consisting of rice and other ingredients wrapped in seaweed), making

the dish an ‘unidentified’ one, and hence giving it its name. Our maki came with a salmon filling, and we found the dish wellbalanced in terms of texture. The softness of the salmon flakes and rice complemented the crunchy cucumber bits and fish roe.

Perhaps the only drawback of the restaurant would be its ambience, or rather, its lack thereof. Despite priding itself on being one of the finer Japanese eateries around, it did not exude an authentic Japanese vibe as most reputable places would, due to minimal Japanese ornaments that are part of its otherwise basic restaurant décor.

Looking past that, if you’re someone game for surprising culinary concepts, this is the place for you.

MEGUMI JAPANESE RESTAURANT Block 106, Clementi Street 12, Sunset Lane #01-64 S120106 Opening Hours: 11.30am - 2.30pm 6pm - 10.30pm Closed every Monday except public holidays

BUTTERCAKE N CREAM Block 106, Clementi Street 12, Sunset Lane #01-52 S120106 Opening Hours: 11.45am - 10.30pm daily

SUGAR RUSH: The Warm Chocolate Pudding (left) was a perfect combination of hot and cold.

The Rainbow Lemonade (right) was pretty to look at, but unfortunately did not taste as good.

PHOTOS: CARNE & CAIPIRINHA, FABIAN LOO

06-07 LIFESTYLE

THE NANYANG

VOL. NO.

22

CHRONICLE 03

ACROSS THE CAUSEWAY

Home to City Square Johor Bahru Shopping Mall, Bandar Johor Bahru is a lesser known food haven located just past the causeway.

Join Lifestyle Editor Fabian Loo and Lifestyle Writer Lai Juehao as they explore this area that allows you to skimp on the bill while having your fill.

I

t’s no secret that Johor Bahru is a food haven. The Bandar Johor Bahru area, which is within walking distance from the Sultan Iskandar Complex Customs, is particularly popular among Singaporeans who travel into Malaysia by bus.

With the ringgit trading near all-time lows against the Singapore dollar (S$1 to RM3 at press time), there has also never been a better time to experience its charm.

HIAP JOO BAKERY 13 Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Johor Bahru Operating Hours: Monday - Saturday: 8am - 6pm

WE WERE drawn in from a distance by the rich aroma of freshly baked goods.

It quickly became apparent that the people at Hiap Joo Bakery take the phrase ‘fresh from the oven’ very seriously.

Some bakers were preparing the batter for their next baking season, others checking on the ones in the oven — the bakery felt more like a giant kitchen instead. Customers forming a snaking line outside the bakery were only allowed into the premises when their desired baked goods became available.

It was not uncommon for people to order

in bulk, which meant that we did a lot of waiting before it was our turn.

We loved their moist and light Banana Cake (RM4.80). We were fortunate enough to enjoy them as soon as they came out from a huge wood-fired oven, and were packed straight into a plastic box.

In fact, the cake was emitting steam when we laid our hands on it, sending wafts of buttery aroma into the air.

The Coconut Buns (RM3.70 for five), which were also piping hot when we bought them, were bursting with the mellow sweetness of shredded coconut. Indeed, it will be hard to find such fresh and traditional baked goods in Singapore.

We would have brought some back for our family and friends, except that we couldn’t resist finishing every last bite.

GRAPHIC: KIMBERLY ANG

PHOTOS: LIM ZI SONG

ROOST REPURPOSED & RECYCLE 14 Jalan Trus, 80000 Johor Bahru Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday: 6pm - 12am

HUA MUI COFFEESHOP 131 Jalan Trus, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday: 7.30am - 9.30pm

THINGS don’t get more traditional than at Hua Mui Coffeeshop.

This two-storey coffeehouse, which specialises in Hainanese cuisine and toasted bread, has over half a century of history.

From vintage tile works to a primitive dumbwaiter (a pulley system that lifts food and drinks up to customers on the upper floor), this rustic place stands as a gentle rebuke to the recent influx of template and

soulless hipster cafes.

Stepping into this place certainly felt like a blast from the past.

Both the Butter And Kaya Toast (RM2) and Scrambled Eggs On Toast (RM6) that we tried were decent.

But what we really appreciated was the fact that the bread at Hua Mui Coffeeshop were toasted over a charcoal-fired grill — just like the olden days.

The result is a perfectly crispy toast and a soft fluffy interior.

Promising an unpretentious menu and homely setting, Hua Mui Coffeeshop is certainly a great place to consider. Especially if you’re looking for no-frills meals that are not only packed with nostalgic flavours, but also easy on the pocket.

THE REPLACEMENT LODGE & KITCHEN 33 Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru Operating Hours: Monday - Friday, Sunday: 10am - 7pm Saturday: 9am - 10pm

THE exterior of The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen stood in stark contrast to its surroundings.

It was clean, white and minimalistic, and we had no trouble locating it amidst the sea of identical looking shophouses. But when we walked into the cafe, it felt like we had accidentally stumbled into a hipster’s lair,

complete with mismatched lighting, ultramodern furnishings and piles of Kinfolk magazines.

It should have been haphazard and offputting, but it was intriguing.Unsure of what to order, we took our cue from the other tables and got the Original Churros (RM12.90) with homemade dark chocolate ganache.

The light and non-oily churros were a pleasant surprise compared to the denser renditions common in Singapore. A quibble would be that The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen could have been more generous with the cinnamon sugar to better balance out the bittersweet chocolate dip.

We entered uncertain of what to expect and came away bedazzled by both the decor and dessert.

THE name of this café is exemplified in its decor and interior.

Walking into the quaint space of Roost Repurposed & Recycle, we were greeted with an eclectic mix of furniture made from upcycled and recycled materials.

We had the Chicken Meatballs (RM14.90), which was highly recommended by our waitstaff. It arrived nestled in a bed of mashed potatoes, and was topped with cracked ground pepper.

Unfortunately, the meatballs had a strong processed taste reminiscent of the supermarket varieties.

The sole saving grace of the dish was the smooth and buttery mashed potato.

We also tried the Tiramisu with Caramel Glaze Tart (RM14.90). Flaky crust, smooth and light vanilla filling, and sticky toffee bits — these were all elements that should have made for a delicious tart.

But the lack of any distinct coffee flavour ultimately sank the dessert.

With its laidback and cozy ambience, we highly recommend Roost Repurposed & Recycle for its unique ambience.

IT ROO CAFÉ 17 Jalan Dhoby, 80000 Johor Bahru Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday: 10am - 9.30pm

PRIDING themselves on having the “Best Chicken Chop in Town”, we held high expectations for IT Roo Café.

Living up to its hype, this humble eatery with over 50 years of history was packed within minutes after opening when we went down on a Saturday.

And it was only natural then that we tried their signature Fried Chicken Chop (RM14), which was a golden-brown slab that came resting on a pool of mushroom sauce and sides of colesaw and wedges.

We were impressed with the generous portion and the juicy chicken, but the batter and sauce were disappointingly bland. We would have also liked more mushroom slices in the sauce.

Our attention was instead drawn to the wedges, which were baked to a perfect texture of softness and moistness. However, the dish was still disappointing even with the wedges and coleslaw.

Ultimately, we felt that the dish definitely did not fulfill the promise of being the best chicken chop in town. For its price, we suggest giving this place a miss for other better food options in the vicinity.

THE ICE-CREAM PROJECT

KAM LONG RESTAURANT

31 Jalan Dhoby, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

74 Jalan Wong Ah Fook, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru

Operating Hours: Tuesday - Thursday, Sunday: 3pm - 10pm Friday - Saturday: 3pm - 12am

Operating Hours: Monday - Sunday: 8am - 4pm

IT SEEMED like a natural choice to chill and seek respite from the heat at The Ice-Cream Project.

This ice cream café showcases a unique ice cream preparation process that creates the desserts fresh on the spot.

A liquid milk base is first poured into an electric mixer. The addition of liquid nitrogen then helps to firm up the ice cream.

Finally, condiments will be added depending on the flavour of the ice cream ordered.

We opted for the safe combination of Brownies and Cookie flavour (RM14).

The brownie bits added muchneeded crunch to the overwhelmingly creamy and milky cookie ice cream base. It also didn’t help that the ice cream melted way too quickly and we soon found ourselves scraping forlornly at a puddle.

Despite the novelty, it is hard to justify the price for the quality of the ice cream.

Variety was also sorely lacking — they only have four flavours of ice cream available. Higher-grade ice cream in a greater variety of flavours can definitely be found in Singapore for the same price.

BEING a perpetual darling of local food blogs, it might be tempting to generalise everyone who is in the queue for the Kam Long Restaurant as Singaporeans.

It was only after joining the snaking queue did we find out that this place is famous with both Singaporean tourists and Malaysians alike.

Kam Long Restaurant offers only one dish on their menu — Fish Head Curry (RM22).

While the lack of variety should arguably deter diners, the long line we encountered despite the sweltering heat suggested that the singular focus on Fish Head Curry has only resulted in perfection.

After some 30-odd minutes, it was finally our turn to dig in. The fish and other vegetables were fresh, but what really stood out was the curry. The umami gravy was spectacular when eaten with the dried beancurd rolls or paired with rice.

With tight operating hours and a steady flow of customers, we would recommend coming down to Kam Long Restaurant before 2pm as they are usually sold out by then.

Reviews movie review

ME AND EARL AND THE DYING GIRL Drama, Comedy (PG13) Thomas Mann, Olivia Cooke, Ronald Cyler II, Nick Offerman 105 min



C

oming to terms with death is a part of life that no one is really prepared to handle, especially more so in one’s younger years.

As the name suggests, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl puts three teenagers in that very situation, and while it might be easy to pass the film off as just another The Fault In Our Stars, this is a movie worth watching nonetheless.

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl follows the story of Greg Gaines, an awkward teenager who avoids being a social outcast by associating himself with every clique in his high school.

When childhood friend Rachel Kushner is diagnosed with leukaemia, Greg is forced by his parents to spend time with her, and — after developing an unlikely friendship — enlists the help of his best friend Earl to create a film dedicated to her.

NO FAULT IN THEIR STARS: Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is not a typical love story.

Audiences might make comparisons to The Fault in Our Stars, considering that both are adapted from young adult novels centered around smart mouthed, terminally ill teenagers.

The key difference between the two films, however, is that Me and Earl and the Dying Girl does not concern itself with the topic of romance.

In an early scene, Greg himself denounces the possibility of a relationship

PHOTO: FOX SEARCHLIGHT

with Rachel, and what follows is a refreshing platonic love that is not often seen in the movies of today.

Thomas Mann and Olivia Cooke lead the cast as Greg and Rachel respectively, and like so many young adult protagonists before them, bring a relatable disposition that audiences will be able to connect with.

In one particular scene, the two discuss the social complexities that are inherent in school life, and the resulting conversation

will evoke memories that are so relatable that viewers will feel like they’ve experienced it themselves.

Ronald Cyler II rounds out the cast as Earl, his nonchalant, deadpan attitude a welcome juxtaposition to Greg’s animated personality. For a character whose name is in the film’s title, however, Cyler unfortunately doesn’t receive enough screen time, which is a shame considering that he has the potential to be the film’s breakout character.

Another noteworthy aspect of Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is the film’s cinematography.

With its innovative use of quick camera pans and upside-down shots, the Wes Anderson-esque visuals — coupled with an equally compelling soundtrack — make Me and Earl and the Dying Girl one of the most aesthetically appealing films of the year thus far.

With its young cast, quirky dialogue and sea of pop-culture references, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl will appeal to millennial audiences, and not many others.

Due to a limited release, it probably won’t receive a substantial amount of recognition, but those willing to give Me and Earl and the Dying Girl a chance will find a surprising amount of heart and poignancy in this indie film.

-Jared Alex Tan

singles of the month by Jared Alex Tan

WHAT DO YOU MEAN? Justin Bieber Def Jam Recordings

AMID all the criticism and negative publicity surrounding Justin Bieber, it’s easy to forget that he is actually capable of recording a good song.

The teen idol shines in his latest single What Do You Mean?, with his voice lending a certain vulnerability to the song that is absent in his earlier material.

Driven by a minimalistic pairing of wistful piano chords and synth melodies, the instrumentals provide an added layer of melancholy. While the lyrics are at a slight risk of sounding repetitive, they are an earworm nonetheless.

What Do You Mean? might just be the one to win non-Beliebers over, and is a promising preview to his upcoming fourth studio album.

DOWNTOWN

PHOTOS: INTERNET

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ft. Eric Nally

CAPTIVATE

HERE FOR YOU

Macklemore LLC

Midst Self-Released

FOLLOWING the success of their debut album The Heist, hip-hop duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis are back with Downtown, the lead single off their upcoming sophomore album.

With Motown-inspired vocals and an unapologetic use of trumpets, there is a distinctively retro influence present in its sound, with cowbells and a catchy piano riff thrown in for good measure.

Downtown truly comes into its own with the introduction of rock band Foxy Shazam vocalist Eric Nally.

The singer’s impressive range brings a sense of Freddie Mercury-esque grandeur to the track, and the anthemic build-up at the end is sure to have listeners out of their seats and singing along to its infectious lyrics.

THE local music scene has experienced a resurgence of sorts, and Midst is the latest band to join the ever-growing movement.

Captivate is the debut song released by the trio, hoping to “capture the art and imagination of film soundtracks” with their music.

With clean guitar riffs, intertwined voices, and a low-key electronic sound, Captivate will probably have listeners drawing comparisons to British indie pop band The xx. A heavier emphasis on the piano manages to create a distinction between the two, and the track never seems to overstay its welcome despite a lengthy seven-minute duration.

Captivate is an optimistic starting point for the trio, and will satiate listeners before they drop their next single on October 1.

AFTER bursting onto the electronic dance music scene last year with hits such as Firestone and Stole The Show, Norwegian DJ Kygo continues to bring his unique brand of tropical house music to listeners with his new single Here For You. Though the instrumentals are derived from his previous song ID, the addition of X Factor finalist Ella Henderson breathes new life into the old tune. Kygo’s dreamy flutelike riffs and subtle bass beats are juxtaposed with Henderson’s powerful, Adele-esque vocals, providing an added sense of emotion on top on the original track.

With its catchy, yet laid-back vibe, Here For You is the kind of song that you can dance to in a club, or lounge to on a lazy day.

Kygo ft. Ella Henderson Sony Music Entertainment

VOL. NO.

22

REVIEWS

THE NANYANG

03 CHRONICLE

09

tech review

BACK TO

BASICS Both cheap AND good? Reviews Editor Jared Alex Tan tries out three audio devices from the little-known AmazonBasics line to see if they’re a sound choice.

T

he advent of online shopping has completely revolutionised the retail industry — anything you want can be shipped to you in a matter of days.

Shopping for electronics, however, can still be an extremely tedious affair. With endless brands and products to choose from, the electronics landscape has become more saturated than ever.

It can take hours of research before you’re able to make an informed decision. And with so many polarising reviews online, you sometimes end up more confused than when you first started.

The solution to that problem could be AmazonBasics, Amazon’s in-house brand of products that are advertised to be low in price, but high in quality.

The brand has remained relatively unknown in the consumer electronics scene despite its launch six years ago. However, the online retailer’s reputation was enough to make me want to try their products for myself.

While the AmazonBasics catalogue offers a wide range of products that include wireless keyboards and portable chargers, I decided to focus on something that I feel every university student cannot live without: audio devices.

I ordered a portable speaker, computer speakers, and a pair of earphones — products that each serve a specific purpose in campus life — and was surprisingly pleased with the results.

AMAZONBASICS USB POWERED COMPUTER SPEAKERS ($19.50)

LAPTOPS are a quintessential part of every university student’s life, and while their portable nature is a perfect fit for those who need to move from classroom to classroom, the performance of their internal speakers are often underwhelming.

While they do a decent job in quiet environments, even the highest volume settings can be easily drowned out in the presence of surrounding noise.

If you’re looking to take your laptop’s audio experience to the next level, the AmazonBasics USB Powered Computer Speakers might be just what you need.

As the name suggests, these twin speakers can be conveniently connected to your laptop, and their compact design allows them to easily fit in a variety of locations, be it your hall desk or in your school bag.

Much like the Ultra-Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker before it, don’t let the small size of the USB Powered Computer Speakers fool you — with 1.5-watts of power on each side, they are capable of producing more volume than the average user will need.

With the $19.50 price tag, there are some shortcomings in sound quality — bassheavy pop music plays clearly enough, but the sound can get slightly muffled when handling heavier genres like rock.

For those who are willing to live with this slight compromise in quality, the Mini Bluetooth Speakers are definitely a viable choice as an amplifier for your laptop.

AMAZONBASICS ULTRA PORTABLE MINI BLUETOOTH SPEAKER ($42) THE first thing that you’ll notice about the AmazonBasics Ultra-Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker is its size.

The device is smaller than a can of Coca-Cola, making it an ideal companion for days when you need a little extra sound, but don’t want to lug a set of heavy audio equipment around.

Despite its small dimensions, the Ultra-Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker still packs a big punch. A decent 3-watt internal speaker powers the device, and the sound at full volume is more than enough to fill the space of a hall room. The speaker is also equipped with an in-built microphone, allowing you to use it as a proxy for your phone or computer when making calls.

When it comes to aesthetics, the Ultra-Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker features an Apple-esque, less-is-more design. With three clearly defined buttons and not much else, the speaker is as much of a minimalist ornament as it is an audio device. And for those who want a little more power, don’t worry — it comes in two larger sizes as well.

AMAZONBASICS IN-EAR HEADPHONE WITH MICROPHONE ($18) BE IT for study sessions or travelling from one location to another, headphones essentially brighten up a part of my day that would otherwise be mundane.

Although they are among the few things that I can’t leave home without, I have never been particularly selective when it comes to their quality.

Unlike audiophiles who can spend hundreds of dollars on a single pair, I have been content with $20 headphones from Popular bookstore.

The main problem that comes with cheap headphones is their tendency to spoil easily. More often than not, one side would show signs of failing within a few months, and completely stop working eventually. I was caught in a vicious cycle of buying a new pair and having them break.

Even before plugging them in, the AmazonBasics In-Ear Headphones were already an improvement to my current pair when it came to build quality.

The wires feel more sturdy than others in the same price range, and will probably be less affected by the frequent coiling that comes with everyday use.

That said, a solid construction won’t matter if the sound quality doesn’t match up, so it is fortunate that the In-Ear Headphones deliver on that front as well.

The sound produced is highly dynamic, with music remaining clear and distortionfree even at higher volumes. Also, the included microphone to receive phone calls — while not exactly a breakthrough feature — is a welcome addition.

For $18, the AmazonBasics In-Ear Headphones far exceed the quality of its competition, and is definitely worth considering for those looking for an inexpensive pair of headphones.

PHOTOS: HILLARY TAN

10-11 SPOTLIGHT

THE NANYANG

As the Singapore University Games (SUniG) heat up, the coaches become even more important to the team’s success. Photo Editors Hillary Tan and Matthew Chew speak to a coach whose life revolves around his sport.

O

N T U in 2008 t hat he star ted playing competitively.

The 28-year-old also earned his coaching certificates between October 2012 and September 2013 while playing cricket full-time in the domestic league.

“I’m trying to plan my career around cricket,” said the Singapore Permanent Resident (PR).

It was at a domestic league game as a member of the Ceylon Sports Club’s cricket team that Mr Arjun was noticed by the national team.

He was subsequently drafted into the team just two months before his f irst inter national tournament at the World Cricket League in July 2012.

22

CHRONICLE 03

LIFELONG INNING

n most Saturday mornings, Mr Arjun Mutreja can be found at the field of the Singapore Cricket Association, training with his teammates in the national team.

On Wednesday nights, Mr Arjun steps up as the coach of the NTU cricket team, preparing them for this year’s Singapore University Games (SUniG).

The former student of the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering had been interested in the sport since he was a fiveyear-old child growing up in Delhi, India, playing cricket on the streets.

But it wasn’t until he entered

VOL. NO.

A lt houg h he st i l l wa sn’t a member of the main team, Mr Arjun did get a chance to play against the U.S. in the second match of that tournament.

“I’m trying to plan my career around cricket.”

Arjun Mutreja, 28 Coach, NTU Cricket Team National Cricket Team Player They lost, which cost Singapore advancement to a higher division,

and barely managed to avoid relegation. Even so, Mr Arjun treasures the memory.

“I still remember every minute of that game. It was great to be playing for the country.”

Before he was able to contribute more, however, Mr Arjun’s student visa expired at the end of 2013.

Not on ly was he u nable to par ticipate in a few national tournaments that year, he was also required to leave Singapore.

“That was my toughest year in Singapore,” said Mr Arjun, who spent his time back home in Delhi playing cricket with a local team.

Thankfully, Mr Arjun was able to return to Singapore in March 2014 as a result of the hard work of the Ceylon Sports Club, who were successful in helping him obtain his PR status.

Mr Arjun has since found a job

with local firm Decathlon as an e-commerce warehouse manager wh i le pu r suing h is dream of having a full-time cricket career.

Earlier this year, NTU hired Mr Arjun to be the coach of its cricket team, giving him more hope for a career in cricket here.

Even w it h t he r ecent ha ze a f fec t i ng loca l spor t s , he i s optimistic about how the NTU team is progressing.

“We’ve only had one training session cancelled, so we haven’t missed out too much,” he said.

The invaluable experience Mr Arjun gains from coaching the NTU team will bring him much closer to turning his passion into a full-time career, even after his playing days are over.

“Ironic that I came to Singapore to study engineering and ended up playing cricket here,” he said.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: TEAM PLAYER: Mr Arjun Mutreja, 28, bowls for his fellow batsman on the national cricket team during a training session. The national team have been playing in Division 3 in the World Cricket League since 2014, their highest position ever. The league comprises of six divisions, with Division 1 hosting the best teams.

BATTING AWAY: Mr Arjun’s turn to take the bat. Even with a full-time job, he manages to join in the national team’s training sessions on Thursday and Saturday evenings, as well as coach the NTU team on Wednesday nights. “If I’m spending so much time on cricket, I want the best shot at succeeding,” said Mr Arjun.

TOOL OF THE TRADE: The bat that Mr Arjun uses has been with him for two years, but he rarely uses it, as he saves the bat for matches with the national team. He last batted with it in the Asian Cricket Council tournament in January this year.

THE DAY OFF: Mr Arjun enjoys a cup of morning coffee with his housemate, Mr Shriram Venkatesan, 27. They have been housemates for two months. Mr Shriram, a graduate of the National University of Singapore School of Medicine, is an avid cricket fan, though he doesn’t play the sport.

12-13 DAPPER

THE NANYANG

VOL. NO.

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CHRONICLE 03 Recess week is almost upon us, and with Singapore’s perpetual summer, what better way to relax than to enjoy a day at the beach?

Our very own NTU athletes will show you some summer outfit ideas, together with 22-year-old blogger Mong Chin Yeoh (check out her enviable Instagram feed at @mongabong). Mong Chin also dishes out advice on how to live a healthy lifestyle, so read on to find out how to get that beach bod!

How do you stay cool and fashionable in Singapore’s hot and humid weather?

I try my best to stay indoors and avoid the sun. I carry my favouite Powder Sheets with me, use waterproof make-up and carry a travel-sized facial mist to keep my skin cool and hydrated. For my outfits, I often opt for sleeveless dresses or tops with shorts!

What do you do to stay stylish in school?

I usually gravitate towards pieces that are comfortable. I wouldn’t want to be restricted by a top that is tight-fitting or anything too revealing as that would distract me from focusing in class. I am a fan of basics because I can

easily change up a look with accessories, make-up, or even the footwear of my choice!

Can you share with us your workout routine?

I hit the gym once a week and do some simple workouts at home as well.

My advice is to just do whatever makes you happy, and you’ll find a more sustainable healthy lifestyle for yourself!

How do you stay confident?

What do you eat to stay healthy?

Keeping a healthy diet is crucial but that doesn’t mean abstaining from certain foods completely — going to the extremes can be harmful at times too!

I do my best to stay fit and healthy, and I believe confidence will follow suit. Exercising keeps me in shape, while eating well makes me feel better on the inside and look better on the outside! Other than that, I like to use makeup to accentuate my features, all these help me to stay confident.

I love food too much to give it up, so I do my best to cut down on junk food, such as limiting myself to two cups of bubble tea a week.

Get the full interview, tips from our athletes and more photos at www.nanyangchronicle.ntu.edu.sg

ON THE PREVIOUS PAGE On Clement: Men Flannel Printed Long Sleeve Shirt: Uniqlo, $39.90. On Nabil: Men Denim Printed Long Sleeve Shirt: Uniqlo, $49.90. On Mong Chin: The Siren One-Piece: Kitsi, $39.90; Ari Embellished Cuff: Her Velvet Vase, $24; Georgina Maxi Skirt: Preenk, $59.90; Others: Model’s own. On Pradeep: Men Geometric Printed Short Sleeve Shirt: Uniqlo, $29.90.

On Nabil: Men Chino Shorts: Uniqlo, $29.90; Others: Model’s own. On Clement: Men Twill Shorts: Uniqlo, $19.90; Others: Model’s own. On Mong Chin: The Eden Bikini: Kitsi, $32.90; A Boho Life Crochet Beach Dress: Tea For Three, $28; Light Blue Ripped Cut-Offs: Tea For Three, $27; Midas Heeled Sandals: Her Velvet Vase, $38; Luna Dark Grey Necklace: Tea For Three, $10; Agence Romance Pantsuit: Her Velvet Vase, $34; Others: Model’s own. On Sheng Jun: Men Chino Shorts: Uniqlo, $29.90; Others: Model’s own. On Pradeep: Cotton Singlet: H&M, $9.90; Men Twill Shorts: Uniqlo, $19.90; Others: Model’s own.

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20/8/14 5:33 PM

Opinions CHIEF EDITOR SPEAKS

Election fever lingers IT IS a week after the General Election (GE), and the nation is still discussing the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) sweeping 69.9% of the votes.

This is especially true for some first-time voters, who were ready for more opposition Members of Parliament to provide a greater variety of voices and serve as a checkand-balance.

When the sample counts were gradually released, many of my peers expressed shock on social media: how were the ground sentiments we had witnessed, and shared ourselves, so unlike the actual results?

That being said, it was heartening to see that young voters were actively engaged in this GE. During the GE itself, political discourse was at its peak. I saw friends from all walks of life at rallies I attended, as well as others sharing on social media about meeting politicians on walkabouts at their neighbourhoods.

For the first time in my life, I felt like the younger generation was using the relevant tools at their disposal to truly understand the political landscape.

It helped that the parties put their manifestos online, were active on Facebook and Twitter, and – for certain prominent candidates – even

posted cheeky updates about orh luak (fried oyster omelette) on Instagram.

Even as the elections came to a close, political chatter persisted among my friends – most of university age or recent entrants into the workforce – who voted for the first time.

As experts and analysts wrote articles in the mainstream media on why the PAP won big, many young people took to dissecting them, and also offered their own take on what happened.

But it is not true that everyone was swept up by the political wave.

There were some who clamoured for “the return of funny cat videos”.

Certainly, no matter how successfully the candidates engage the voters, there will always be some apathetic citizens.

However, it cannot be denied that this level of discourse among first-time voters is encouraging, even if it was buoyed mostly by a simple desire to air our opinions on social media.

This is the starting point.

The conversation has not ended, and it should not end here.

We should strive to keep it alive to stimulate and inspire political interest in generations to come. Who knows what the next GE will bring?

THE NANYANG

CHRONICLE CHIEF EDITOR

OPINIONS EDITOR

SUB-EDITORS

SPORTS EDITORS

A students’ newspaper published by the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information (WKWSCI)

GRAPHIC EDITOR

Nanyang Technological University 31 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637718 Tel: 6790 6446

Louisa Tang

Abigail Ng Austen Choo Kerri Heng Ng Jian Yang Kessa Choo Abigail Chia

NEWS EDITOR Shaun Tan

LIFESTYLE EDITORS Chelsea Tang Fabian Loo

REVIEWS EDITOR Jared Alex Tan

PHOTO EDITORS Hillary Tan Matthew Chew DAPPER EDITORS Joel Lim Lydia Teo

Leila Lai

Matthew Mohan Nur Amyraa Kimberly Ang

COMMUNITY EDITOR Gabrielle Goh BUSINESS MANAGERS Jolyne Tan Sheena Wong

FACULTY ADVISORS

Debbie Goh Edson Tandoc Zakaria Zainal

PRODUCTION SUPPORT Joe Tok Kenny Wong

Unsigned editorials represent the majority view of the editorial board of The Chronicle and do not necessarily reflect the policies or views of Nanyang Technological University, its employees, the students or the Council of the University.

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frankly, my dear

A column by Chronicle Editors on issues close to their hearts

When life imitates art

STRIKING A BALANCE: In the pursuit of art, personal life and valuable relationships can end up playing secondary roles.

Hillary Tan Photo Editor

M

ost of my friends know me as a photographer, or “that guy with a camera”, but I’m also an avid fan of Broadway musicals — which I would argue is the tougher hobby to maintain.

I usually have to search YouTube and hope there are clips or recordings, since relatively few musicals are performed live in Singapore.

I love musicals for the way that they incorporate storytelling, songwriting, and live performances.

But my personal favourites help me understand myself better — their messages are so well-hidden in subtext that I unearth more with each listen.

And ever since I discovered the Tony Award-winning musical Fun Home, I have been both obsessed with its soundtrack and captivated by the protagonist’s story.

Fun Home is based on the life of cartoonist Alison Bechdel, adapted for the stage from her graphic memoir of the same name.

Alison, as the protagonist, summarises her life succinctly: “My dad and I both grew up in the same small Pennsylvania town, and he was gay, and I was gay. And he killed himself. And I became a lesbian cartoonist.”

To see this as a musical only about homosexuality would be

to discount Alison’s emotional journey and her struggle to connect with others as she grows up.

This journey is marked by heart-breaking scenes, including one where Alison pleads for her memory of her father to “say something, talk to me.” She knows that no one is there, but she feels so alone that she calls out to him anyway.

In primary school, I was surrounded by classmates who never missed an opportunity to let me know that they thought ‘Hillary’ was a girl’s name, and never failed to make that known to me in the bluntest ways possible.

I hated talking to people, sticking instead to a small group of friends for whom the novelty of a cheap laugh at my expense had worn off.

But as we started to go our separate ways, whether to different schools or simply because we grew up, I was once again left without friends.

Every new situation was a new struggle for me to fit in. At times, I even screamed and cursed myself for growing up and leaving a period of my life when I did not feel out of place, even though that’s just how life is.

By the end of Fun Home, Alison has learned to let go and be at peace with her past. When I realised how much her experience mirrored mine, a bittersweet sensation washed over me as the character overcame the shadows of her past.

The only other time I’ve felt such a powerful connection was when I watched the full performance of Sunday in the Park with George, by Stephen Sondheim.

Sondheim was inspired to write the musical because of a friend’s observation about the famous painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte, by

GRAPHIC: MINH NYUGEN

Georges Seurat.

His friend pointed out that the only person missing from the scene was the artist himself, sparking an idea for a musical about artists and their obsession with their work.

Through a fictional narrative of Seurat’s life, Sondheim explored different facets of the artistic process — including how easily an obsession with creating a masterpiece can cause the artist to neglect the people who care about him.

As a photographer, balancing photography and my personal life is an issue I struggle with, especially when some assignments require me to arrive before, and stay late after an event. All the meetups and family dinners that I’ve skipped when they clash with assignments; those moments hurt.

Even if the shots turn out well, it doesn’t stop me from brooding about what I’m missing.

Although Georges repeatedly appears indifferent to the people around him, Sondheim implies later in the show that Georges actually does care about them.

Even though they cannot understand why he pursues his art with such obsession, he acknowledges their importance in his life by immortalising them in his art.

To me, that is the most hopeful message this show can offer, because it tells me that what little time I have with my loved ones can be made timeless through my art.

While there are other musicals that tackle similar themes, none are as brutally honest. It’s this honesty about the human experience that allows Fun Home and Sunday in the Park with George to transcend the ordinary musical and secure their special place in my heart.

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OPINIONS

THE NANYANG

VOL. NO.

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CHRONICLE 03

canteen subsect talk With a contest in every constituency and even threeway fights in some, Singapore's recent general election saw energetic competition and some surprising results.

The Nanyang Chronicle asks some students for their thoughts on the polling day results.

Doing the right thing

“Our new generation wants a sense of safety, and some feel that the People's Action Party can provide that."

Marcus Sim, 22, MAE, Year 1

“The opposition could be more proactive by offering practical solutions to issues like population woes, instead of just talking about them."

Lydia Chua, 22, CBE, Year 4

“I was impressed by how Dr Chee Soon Juan kept calm and put forth valid points, even though he was under a lot of pressure."

M. Vikneswaran, 21, NBS, Year 1

“Norway has about seven political parties in Parliament. But having fewer parties here seems to have worked well."

Andrea Kuam, 22, NBS, exchange student

"Online opinions and actual results probably differed because people speak freely online, but cast their votes more carefully."

Darren Low, 25, HSS, Year 3

TEXT: LEILA LAI, NEO SHI WEI PHOTOS: CORIN TOO

GRAPHIC: JENNIFER SOON EXPOSING SECRETS: Adultery websites make cheating easier, but they also highlight the problem and encourage healthy dialogue.

Gracia Lee & Leila Lai, Opinions Editor

W

hen I first learnt about Ashley Madison and its plans to expand into Singapore two years ago, it made me wonder: is infidelity so popular that it can be a lucrative business?

The Canadian-based website appears to be an innocuous online dating service at first glance, until one realises that it is marketed specifically to married individuals.

Growing up, I was taught to value fidelity, commitment, and honesty in a marriage, and was taken aback by the company's complete rejection of those values.

The website’s slogan, “Life is short. Have an affair” branded cheating as something desirable — a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Following vocal disapproval from Singaporeans, the Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA) subsequently banned the website.

However, it hit local headlines again in August this year, when more than 4,000 emails ending in “.sg” were among the millions that hackers leaked.

In light of the Ashley Madison leak, I worry if our society is starting to let crucial values slip through our fingers.

Four thousand emails. I imagine 4,000 families affected, and perhaps even more than 4,000 children caught in a complex web of confusion and anger.

I was once a close friend’s confidant when her parents were going through a divorce because of her father’s infidelity.

She told me of the emotional anguish that she was experiencing: a potent combination of hurt and betrayal, mixed with the fact that she still loved and respected him.

Seeing a close friend in

such pain, I got a glimpse of the emotional consequences of infidelity on innocent children, and I wondered if my future children would grow up in a world where this is the norm.

In light of the Ashley Madison leak, I worry if our society is starting to let crucial values slip through our fingers.

Yet it may be a good thing that Ashley Madison struck so close to home, as the buzz it generated made us confront a difficult topic.

It is unfeasible to block every objectionable website. Moreover, banning Ashley Madison two years ago didn’t stop Singaporeregistered users from signing up.

With or without Ashley Madison, anyone who wants to use a digital platform to cheat can easily find an alternative in casual dating apps like Tinder.

Talking openly, on the other hand, can be more effective in managing the problem of infidelity.

Open discourse on a sexual practice, according to French philosopher Michel Foucault, makes the act visible, thus allowing society to analyse it and define what is normal and what is deviant.

This creates reasons and methods for regulation and control, be it by the state or the self.

The appearance of the Ashley Madison website sparked off discussions on infidelity and promiscuity, subjects that were previously seen as taboo.

It allowed those who condemned these practices to stand up and voice out against threats to their moral values.

This is exactly what is needed.

“Some people don’t see cheating as a problem,” said relationship counsellor Lee Kien Seng.

“If we see adultery as something that is morally wrong, then cheating will never be a considered option.”

Many Singaporeans clearly did not want infidelity to become the norm here, as seen from how they initiated a petition for the ban two years ago, which gathered 2,900 signatures.

Someone once said, “One voice is a whisper, but many voices is

a roar.”

Indeed, we cannot underestimate the power of our whispers to become a roar loud enough to protect what we believe is important for our society.

While discourse can trigger control by the state, it also reinforces our responsibility and self-discipline for our actions.

We cannot always control the vices that enter our society and threaten to corrupt it, but we are in full control of our choices.

A couple I know told me that the Ashley Madison fiasco made them more aware of the need to be honest and express their feelings to each other.

They have begun to talk through disagreements and be more open about their emotional needs.

Doing so, they are spending more time to understand each other and solve problems in their relationship. This is better than keeping silent and hoping that the problems will sort themselves out.

Their commitment to talk openly to each other about intimate and difficult issues echoes the advice of Mr Lee, the relationship counsellor.

He said that unsatisfactory sex lives and feelings of neglect are some reasons for infidelity, and stressed the importance of good communication in a relationship.

We cannot always control the vices that enter our society and threaten to corrupt it, but we are in full control of our choices.

A good value system is ultimately essential to avoid the temptation of adultery, said Mr Lee. As long as we articulate and affirm our values, whether through protesting services that encourage questionable behaviour or cultivating healthy relationships with our loved ones, we will be in a better position to stand against the influence of websites such as Ashley Madison.

WHAT DOES OPPORTUNITY LOOK LIKE?

NTU-IGS_IPP_Outreach_AD_POSTER_Dunlin_FA_EditAug14.indd 1

A student. An employee. A solutions seeker. Dunlin is one and all. With the Industrial Postgraduate Programme (IPP), she is empowered to pursue full-time PhD studies while conducting research at Thales Solutions Asia.

Find out how you can make the most of the opportunities.

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Singaporeans & Singapore permanent residents are eligible to apply

21/8/14 3:51 PM

18

SPORTS

THE NANYANG

VOL. NO.

22

CHRONICLE 03

Shooting for the stars

Recent NTU graduate and national basketballer Wong Wei Long has competed with the national team for the past nine years, but his work is not yet complete. Sports Writer Serena Yeh finds out more about his current and future plans.

O

n the basketball court, Wong Wei Long is in control.

As the point guard, he assumes the role of team commander.

He reads the movements, calculates the play, and facilitates the game.

The 27-year-old plays for the national team and the Singapore Slingers — the country’s only professional basketball team that is part of the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL).

Motivating mentor

READING THE GAME: Wei Long's vision on the court allows him to find teammates.

Off the court, Wong’s zeal for the sport spills over to his other activities. At the forefront of his focus are plans to groom the next generation of basketball talents.

He first started coaching students nine years ago.

Late last year, he set up his own training school, the ScholarAthlete Basketball Academy, and employs national team players as his trainers.

His very first clinic last December attracted 26 students, exceeding his expectations.

On 16 Jan, he started his first class with only eight students, and now there are five classes with over 80 students.

Most of his time is spent with his students.

He also holds free-of-charge 45-minute long basketball clinics around Bishan and does enrichment classes for Nanyang Primary School.

His dedication is evident.

He beams when he shares about his protégé from Hwa Chong

Institution, whom he hopes to train up to the international scene.

To him, training them in their crucial teenage years means instilling the right techniques and beliefs in them, and turning them away from bad choices in life.

He has many dreams he wants to achieve for his students, such as being able to bring his top eight for a summer basketball camp in the U.S. to broaden their vision.

He also hopes to be able to build his own basketball gym within the next three years.

“I’ll do what I can do for those parents who have faith and trust in me. I’m going to do my best for them,” Wong says.

Well-rounded

Wong is also more than just a basketball player and trainer.

He is also a restaurant owner and recent School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering graduate.

To the spectator, it might seem like a feat to juggle multiple commitments all at once.

But for Wong, it is something that he embraces.

“I always want my schedule to be packed, so that I’m not going to waste my time,” he says.

During the lead-up to the 28th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in June, where the Republic eventually finished with a bronze, Wong’s typical daily routine comprised two trainings with the national team, attending tutorials in school, and coaching his own students.

In addition, he also had to contend with the rigours of his

Final Year Project.

Playing on home ground at the Games, the national team was aiming for the gold medal.

But disappointing performances and injuries hampered their efforts — Wong was hit in his eye during training, which is why he wears goggles on the court now, and broke his right middle finger.

But he’s not one to fixate on losses. “You just got to do a better job in the near future.

“You can never think about what happened in the past, just got to move forward,” he adds.

Wong is equally forthcoming about the national team’s chances at the upcoming FIBA Asia Championship 2015 in Hunan, China.

Several of their key players are unable to join due to other commitments, including NTU undergraduate Russel Low who is busy with his studies.

“We are all not prepared,” he says. “But nevertheless, our coach wants us to have that kind of experience.”

It is the first time in 14 years that the Republic is playing in the tournament.

The team is grouped with Asian heavyweights China and South Korea, as well as Jordan.

As a veteran, Wong says this will be a valuable opportunity for the team’s group of younger players to learn because it will be their first outing on the international stage.

The right attitude

Having the right beliefs mean a lot to Wong.

He values a particular saying from two-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Steve Nash, “The true test of a man's character is what he does when no one is watching.”

Wong believes that what matters the most is the hard work a person puts in when no one else is looking, and this personal conviction shows in his results.

Marked improvement

HELPING HAND: Wong Wei Long is his teammate's go-to man.

PHOTOS: KENNETH CHUA

From single digit statistics in his first season with the Slingers, Wong now racks up double digits.

Last year, he was voted the ABL’s Local MVP over his competitors from Malaysia and Thailand.

“With the right mentality, nothing could possibly go wrong,” Wong says.

Standing at 1.74 metres, he cuts a diminutive figure as compared to his teammates and competitors.

But whether he’s facing taller opponents or tougher teams, he feels no additional stress.

Even if people assume that he is going to lose, all he wants to do is to go out there and compete to the best of his capabilities.

Wong says: "I’ll always love the challenge. I always want people to hit me down so that I can climb up again, stronger and better than before.”

VOL. NO.

22

SPORTS

THE NANYANG

03 CHRONICLE

Pulling no punches Cassandra Yeo

A

s I walked into Singapore’s longest running Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) academy, I was apprehensive of what to expect.

I had never practiced any form of martial arts and felt my lack of experience did not bode well.

However, I had heard about BJJ, and in particular, its lack of female participants. This puzzled me.

After all, this form of martial arts is supposedly considered less dangerous than its popular counterparts.

Indeed, the gym was dominated by male fighters, drenched in sweat, with limbs contorted in various positions.

In contrast, only a handful of women were present while they prepared for training.

I made my way to the corner of the gym, my gaze fixed on two fighters grappling and constantly manoeuvring their bearing on the mat.

Although the fight piqued my interest, a lack of knowledge of the rules and point system left me uncertain about the progression of

the duel.

Nevertheless, I was eager to find out more from Mr Jason Quek, 38, the head coach and owner of BJJ Singapore.

He said the sport involves ground fighting and grappling techniques such as the joint-lock and chokehold moves, which are aimed at forcing the opponent into submission.

My introduction to BJJ began with a lesson in executing the “pull-guard” — a move to bring the opponent to the ground.

I had to execute the takedown by gripping my opponent’s arm and tripping her with my leg.

Despite facing a smaller opponent, it took me several attempts before I could take her down.

“BJJ is more than fighting. The methodical steps of positioning and leverage is a beautiful art itself,” said Mr Quek, who took up the sport in 1998 after watching the Ultimate Fighting Championship 2.

In fact, BJJ is said to be one of the safest forms of martial arts, since it does not allow punches, kicks, elbows or any blows to render an opponent unconscious.

The final manoeuvre we were

ROUGH AND TUMBLE: Jiu-jitsu involves more than mere grappling.

taught was ‘rolling’, a type of free sparring where fighters focus more on their techniques and control of their body.

I struggled with this more but still enjoyed the learning process.

Having seen BJJ evolve since he started practising the sport more than a decade ago, Mr Quek believes that the martial art could

go far in Singapore.

He said: “There are people coming into the academy from all walks of life; from a successful entrepreneur to students, and even a 75-year-old grandfather.”

But, there are still women who prefer not try BJJ due to its physicality and amount of body contact involved.

19

PHOTO: ALVIN HO

Having a first hand taste of the sport, I hold on to the belief that BJJ is a versatile martial art suited for everyone of all ages, sizes and yes, genders.

Not only does the sport provide a full-body workout, it will get you beaming with self-confidence, knowing that you can easily take down a bigger opponent.

sports talk

The case for Fandi Ahmad Matthew Mohan, Sports Editor Ignatius Koh Khairul Anwar

WHILE a spell of respectable results in their recent World Cup Qualifying campaign has put the gloss on a tumultuous two years under Bernd Stange for the Lions, there is little doubt Singapore football has seen better days.

For all of Stange’s philosophy of possession-based football, Singapore’s national team have fallen short, most notably in last year’s edition of the Suzuki Cup – where they crashed out in the group stages.

While the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) has granted Stange a temporary reprieve, in the form of a contract extension till Apr 2016, they will need to return to the proverbial drawing board soon enough. When they do, they’ll find one name scrawled, capitalised and underlined in bold.

Singapore’s favourite footballing son, Fandi Ahmad, needs little introduction.

Currently the coach of LionsXII, a Singaporean team participating in the Malaysia Super League, Fandi’s man-managing mentality is a far cry from Stange’s authoritarian approach and has seen him win over his players.

Such is the level of respect that some, notably LionsXII midfielder Zulfahmi Arifin, say that they will

POINTING THE WAY FORWARD: Fandi enjoying a light-hearted moment in training.

play wherever abang (big brother in Malay) Fandi fields them.

The ex-FC Groningen man has also been key in the development of young players.

The likes of Safuwan Baharudin and Nazrul Nazari have benefitted under his tutelage, with the former now comfortably slotting into the number ten role, adapting to a different style of play as compared to his former role as center-back.

Former winger Nazrul is now

Fandi will also be a popular choice, especially among the neutrals.

With Singaporean football in the doldrums, Fandi’s appointment will very much provide the shot in the arm that it sorely needs.

The 53-year-old’s lighting of the SEA Games torch with oldest son Irfan is just an example of how he remains in the public psyche, decades after scoring the winning goal against Selangor in the 1980 Malaysian Cup.

equally adept at full-back, even reprising the role in Singapore colours.

With 14 of the LionsXII’s 27man team called up to the most recent national team squad, Fandi would essentially be managing players who have already been at his disposal, and his strong relationships with an existing core group will likely strengthen the national team.

His exploits permanently etched in Singapore footballing folklore,

PHOTO: MATTHEW MOHAN

For those longing for a return to the good old days, Fandi’s return will be well received.

However, for all his past successes, Fandi still faces criticism.

Finishing seventh and eighth in his two seasons at the helm, the LionsXII have struggled to replicate the lofty heights of 2013 where they finished as champions under V. Sundramoorthy.

While the naysayers may call Fandi’s tactical nous into question, bear in mind this is a man with a more than modest resume.

His accolades include two SLeague titles with Warriors FC (formerly known as SAFFC), an SLeague Coach of the Year Award in 2000, and most recently, a Malaysia Cup win with the LionsXII. Fandi’s all-out attacking approach in his debut season with the LionsXII has also been tempered and refined.

The LionsXII employ a different approach to home and away matches, with Fandi now initiating a counter-attacking game plan for crunch ties in Malaysia.

At the Jalan Besar stadium, however, his charges enter the fray with all guns blazing.

There is a certain pragmatism that has seen him blossom from coaching greenhorn to master tactician.

Now more than ever, Singapore football needs Fandi Ahmad.

The question is whether abang will answer the call.

Sports

Fandi’s the man — Page 19

Not settling for second Lynn Chia

A

fter shaking off a three-year losing run to the National University of Singapore in this January’s Institute-VarsityPolytechnic Games (IVP), NTU’s netball team has set their sights on snapping another barren streak.

Their goal this time: to put an end to four years of playing second fiddle to the same opponents in the Singapore University Games (SUniG).

Netball team vice-captain Ang Kai Lin spoke of their hunger for a victory, adding: “We had fallen short by a narrow margin over the past four years — we do not want to let history repeat itself again.”

The signs for the team remain largely positive.

New and improved

A successful IVP season this year saw NTU beating defending champions NUS 55-51 in the finals.

Both teams topped their respective groups, but the NTU team finished unbeaten at the group stage with a cumulative score margin of 180 points, more than triple that of NUS. Ang attributed the win to head coach Goh Seck Tuck, who “refined the skills of the players” during the off-season, allowing the team to put up their best performance in the IVP thus far.

The 20-year-old added that Mr Goh placed heavy emphasis on basic skills, with the belief that they build the foundation for strong game play.

PASS IT ON: Vice-captain Ang Kai Lin searches out a teammate during a training session.

Ang said: “He will explain concepts repeatedly to make sure everyone fully understands them.

“We have a number of drills (called box or 3-point) that work our basic skills such as our type of passes, intensity of runs, as well as the understanding between us players.”

This year’s IVP win was all the sweeter given that NTU was edged

out 48-49 in last year’s match, where only one point separated the teams at the end of each quarter.

The tides are also changing in the SUniG. In 2011, title heavyweights NUS beat NTU with a 17-point difference.

Just last year, NTU managed to close the gap to a five-point score margin that saw them edged out 50-45.

While the team’s improved performance has been cause for cheer, it also bears the weight of the expectations for them to succeed.

But the team is unfazed.

Team captain Ann Koh, 21, said: “Expectations are just standards that people place on us and we do not have to be affected by it. As a team, we feel that we just have to put in our best and the results will show as the fruits of our labour.”

The chance to prove themselves lies in the upcoming SUniG, where they are expected to meet NUS again.

But the two teams are not purely rivals on the court.

This is where the relationship gets complicated — players from both teams have played as teammates for the Sneakers Netball Club.

The vice-captain also added that personal growth is essential in enhancing the potential of the team as a whole, as members show initiative to “psych” themselves up beforehand to prepare themselves for stiff competition this season.

With the SUniG season already underway for her team, Ang said they are well prepared and determined to give their best.

“We are all geared up mentally and physically for the upcoming games by learning and absorbing as much as we can from our current training sessions,” she added.

The team recently arranged a weekend training camp to focus on mastering the fundamentals of attack and defence, as a means of preparing for SUniG. Fun warm-up games are usually a staple in training sessions, to help the girls bond and improve their chemistry on court.

However, the weekend camp was more focused on helping them hone their skills and improve their strategic play together as a team.

With 26 squad members, the team is a large one, considering that only seven players from each team are allowed on court at any given time.

Koh, a third-year student from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, sees the large number of players in the netball team as advantageous as she believes that having “varying experiences, capabilities and skills” will allow the players to learn from each other during training.

Meanwhile, to Ang, the strong camaraderie of her squad will be key to their success, as they target their first championship win in four years at this year’s SUniG. The second-year student from the School of Art, Design and Media said: “The team is probably the main driving force (behind the desire to train and compete to the best of our capabilities).

“Our coach often tells us that our team is the family we have.”

Familiar foes

EYE FOR GOAL: NTU’s netballers execute a shooting drill.

PHOTOS: NICHOLAS YEO

The Sneakers Netball Club, said Koh, served as an initiation of sorts for varsity netball players, who would train under the club for some time before entering university.

Founded by Mr Goh, almost twothirds of the NTU team’s players now train there.

But the NTU team does not let familiarity affect the way they compete on court, and continue to be fierce rivals with NUS on the university circuit.

Instead, Koh noted that it is beneficial for a sportswoman to gain exposure and experience through clubs, to enable individual growth and self-improvement.

SUniG Fixtures

Score

NTU vs SIM 12 Sep

74 - 46

NTU vs SMU 15 Sep

49 - 25

NTU vs SIT 17 Sep

89 - 10

SUTD vs NTU 26 Sep

TBC

FINALS PLAYOFF

TBC