Fireflyz October 2019

October 2019

Your free copy or read online at fireflyz.com.my

Heart & Soul of the City AN INSIDER'S GUIDE TO KUALA LUMPUR'S GOLDEN TRIANGLE

12 HOURS IN KOTA KINABALU, SABAH / OPEN JOURNAL CYCLING AND WALKING TRAILS & MORE...

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FYH MAG Deepavali.pdf

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Contents October 2019

24

Insider’s Guide Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle

52

Open Journal Discover the greener side of KL

4 CEO's Message 6 Editor’s Note 6 Letters To The Editor 8 Agenda Calendar Listings

10 Comfort Zone Where to Stay

12 Bites Where to Eat

18

14 Quench Where to Drink

12 Hours

17 Tech Up

Koto Kinabalu, Sabah

Must-have gadgets

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34

Tracker Best rooftop bars

30

Perspective Steven Jeong, LG Household & Health Care

22 Savour Vegetable pakora

40 Humble Beginnings

48

Street Chef Mamak-style mee goreng

Cricket snacks by Ento

56 Health & Fitness Bubble tea

58 Pack Up Cool eyewear

60 Reads Fantasy / Sci-Fi

62 At The Movies

44

First Drives Mini Countryman

What’s showing in theatres

65 Firefly News 66 Network Map 68 Fleet & Service Info 70 Viewfinder 72 #FlyFirefly Our Instagram Stars!

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CEO's Message

FIREFLY EDITORIAL ADVISOR CEO, FlyFirefly Sdn Bhd Philip See Editorial Committee Izra Izzuddin, Saisundary Sundra Kumar PUBLISHED BY FlyFirefly Sdn Bhd (346606-K) CITTA Mall, 3rd Floor, No.1, Jalan PJU 1A/48, Pusat Perdagangan Dana 1 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia Tel: +603 7845 4543 Web: www.fireflyz.com.my Email: customer_care@fireflyz.com.my

Dear Guests, We warmly welcome you on our flight and it is a great pleasure to have you with us. At Firefly, we are all about customer satisfaction, from providing affordable fares as the basis of our offering to delivering exceptional customer service and comfort onboard.

SPAFAX MALAYSIA Business Director Sue Loke sue.loke@spafax.com EDITORIAL Editor Julie Goh julie.goh@spafax.com

Having our On-Time Performance at 92 percent, it is exciting to know that we are able to provide everyone with the opportunity to realise their holiday and business aspirations. Be it for business or leisure, we provide the freedom to explore the wonders of Malaysia for your memorable moments.

Senior Writer Eris Choo eris.choo@spafax.com

Art Director Euric Liew euric.liew@spafax.com

Writer Noel Foo noel.foo@spafax.com

Graphic Designer Nurfarahin Kamarudin nurfarahin.kamarudin @spafax.com

Contributors PY Cheong, Caramella Scarpa, Fong Min Hun, Elaine Lau, Rubini Kamal ADVERTISING & MEDIA SALES

At Firefly, we are all about customer experience, from delivering exceptional customer service and comfort to working on improvements and innovative ideas that are attuned to your ever-evolving travel needs. These are done through our service differentiations and promotions. So, stay tuned to an exciting upgrade of our portal and mobile app coming soon as our goal is to meet and even exceed the flying needs of our guests, by contributing towards an interesting and engaging experience from the time you book with us.

If you are bound for Penang, enjoy RM8 OFF a free and easy ticket when you present your Firefly boarding pass on the Penang Hop-On Hop-Off bus service for an exciting tour around the city of George Town. This offer is valid from now until 31 December, and is our promise of having something special for you each month.

While we strive to continuously provide our customers with exclusive service, we are also working hard to ensure valueadded services for our customers to experience maximum convenience and value.

Once again, we are very thankful to all for flying with us and for helping Firefly become the people’s airline of choice. On behalf of Firefly, I wish you an amazing journey and Happy Deepavali to all who are celebrating.

•

Philip See Chief Executive Officer Firefly Airlines

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Senior Sales Manager Shirley Chin shirley.chin @spafax.com

Sales Manager Emmy Aiza emmy.aiza @spafax.com

Sales Manager Vannes Ching vannes.ching @spafax.com

Sales Manager Khairul Adzman khairul.adzman @spafax.com

SPAFAX Chief Executive Officer Niall McBain Chief Operating Officer/Chief Financial Officer Simon Ogden

Managing Director, Asia Pacific Jean-Marc Thomas

Spafax Middle East Jelle De Mey Jelle.DeMey @spafax.com

Spafax USA Mary Rae Esposito maryrae.esposito @spafax.com

Spafax Europe Tullia Vitturi tullia.vitturi @spafax.com Spafax UK Steve O’Connor Steve.OConnor @spafax.com Spafax Asia-Pacific Agnes Law agnes.law @spafax.com

Spafax Canada Tracy Miller tracy.miller @bookmarkcontent.com Spafax South America Francisco Azocar francisco.azocar @bookmarkcontent.com

PRINTER Times Offset (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (194695-W) Times Subang, Bangunan Times Publishing, Lot 46, Subang Hi-Tech Industrial Park, Batu Tiga, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia Tel: +603 5628 6888 Fax: +603 5628 6899 Firelyz is published monthly by Spafax Networks Sdn Bhd for FlyFirefly Sdn Bhd (346606-K). No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of Firefly. All rights reserved. Copyright @ 2019 by Firefly. Opinions expressed in Firelyz are the writers’ and not necessarily endorsed by Firefly and/or Spafax Networks. They are not responsible or liable in any way for the contents in any of the advertisements, articles, photographs or illustrations contained in this publication. Editorial inquiries and inquiries concerning advertising and circulation should be addressed to Spafax Networks. Firefly and Spafax Networks accept no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photography, illustrations and other editorial materials. The Editorial Team reserves the right to edit and/or re-write all materials according to the needs of the publication upon usage. Unsolicited materials will not be returned unless they are accompanied by sufficient return postage.

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Editor's Note

Letters

I have never flown with Firefly before until I switched to my current workplace, which requires me to travel from Subang to Penang. I must say I love how unintimidating Firefly is – friendly crew, great ground and onboard services, and timely flights. Complimentary in-flight snacks are also a life saver at times, not forgetting the Firefly airplane! I always get excited whenever I see the ATR up close. I can’t emphasise how pretty the plane looks, and I never fail to post it to my Insta-story to tell everyone that I’m boarding this cute-looking plane! Its fun size and vibrant colours brighten up my mood too. Small and powerful in all aspects – just like Malaysia’s cili padi!

A

s I write this, Malaysia is enveloped by transboundary haze or smog caused by open burning for agriculture, reportedly in Indonesia. It’s an annual reminder to the people who live in Southeast Asia that somewhere out there, the environment is being destroyed, and it’s completely man-made.

Lee Xinyi

My friend Sunitha Thayaparan has a way with words and puts it succinctly. Accompanied by a photo of a smog-covered Kuala Lumpur skyline, she writes in a Facebook post on the morning of 10 September, “This is a picture of self-serving human greed. Today, let us breathe in deep this hydrocarbon stew, this chemical mist, the manifestation of that basest part of human nature, and take some responsibility. This is my fault, this is our fault, this is our mess of ideological misguidedness that we must collectively, as a species – as the ONLY species on this planet that takes more than it needs – clean up.”

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA.

When Firefly services were suspended to and from Singapore last year, we really missed the convenience of flying from Subang to Singapore, as well as the free baggage and refreshments provided on flights to Ipoh.

We are thankful that Firefly has started flying from Seletar airport again! We were amazed by the quick check-in process, and the less congested immigration counters allowed us to grab some dinner before the flight. It also made our journey much easier. Really looking forward to fly with Firefly to Ipoh from Singapore again. Thank you, Firefly!

In 1997, the situation was so bad that it was termed a “largescale air quality disaster”. It reportedly cost the region an estimated USD9 billion in health care and disruption to air travel and business activities. Yearly, we choke on this toxic air that causes irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, and in severe cases, affects the heart and lungs of people who already have chronic diseases of both organs. But what is astonishing is that after more than 25 years, governments in ASEAN have yet to join forces to resolve the haze crisis.

Chew Bishan SINGAPORE

Flying with Firefly cheers me up every time. After a tiring day, the staff’s friendly service keeps me calm and happy. Moreover, reading the Fireflyz magazine helps me to forget about my fatigue and tiredness.

It has complete information, ranging from exciting events and attractive accommodation, to places of interest within and outside of the country, as well as the latest gadgets. With this excellent service, I hope that Firefly will continue improving, and I’d love to choose Firefly as my main mode of air transport in the future.

Instead of conventional agriculture, wouldn’t it be incredible if more people considered other farming alternatives? I’m talking about farming insects. Crickets, to be precise. Malaysian Kevin Wu launched Ento last year to farm and process crickets for human consumption. He tells us his mission is to provide a healthy and sustainable protein source for the planet (page 40). Salted egg yolk roasted crickets, anyone?

Kuala Lumpur is fortunate to still have pockets of lush areas for walking, cycling and running. They are not difficult to get to and some have tours run by guides who are as passionate as they are knowledgeable about their subject matter. Take Steven Wong for example, he’s a nature guide for night tours into Bukit Kiara. In his four years of taking nature enthusiasts into the park located in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, he has spotted 16 species of frogs and toads, 24 types of snakes, 13 species of lizards, and snoozing monkeys.

Now might not be a good time to book a tour with Wong, but as soon as the haze clears, it’s a great way for the whole family to do something together (page 52).

Adimuhaini bin Mohd Noor KOTA BHARU, KELANTAN

We’ d love to hear from you!

Write to us at ffmedia@spafax.com and stand a chance to win belif skincare set worth about RM530.

In the meantime, let’s hope that the farmers complete their slash-and-burn land clearing soon. Happy Deepavali to all who are celebrating.

Letters may be edited for clarity and brevity, and will be published in the language in which they are written. Please include your full name, contact number and location when writing to us. Only one winning letter will be chosen each month.

•

Julie Goh

October 2019

Your free copy or read online at fireflyz.com.my

Editor

ON THE COVER

October 2019

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The Golden Triangle is the shopping, entertainment and commercial hub of Kuala Lumpur.

Heart & Soul of the City AN INSIDER'S GUIDE TO KUALA LUMPUR'S GOLDEN TRIANGLE

12 HOURS IN KOTA KINABALU, SABAH / OPEN JOURNAL CYCLING AND WALKING TRAILS & MORE...

PHOTO: FAIRUS RAHIM

WINNING LETTER

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Agenda

Upcoming

Events WHAT’S HAPPENING IN MALAYSIA AND AROUND THE REGION.

Artistic Spirit

HANDS Percussion presents Taksu, a musical adaptation of the ancient Balinese concept of the divine inspiration that exists naturally in each person, motivating the artist to perform. Under the direction of Wayan Sudirana – one of Bali’s most gifted musicians – and Malaysian actor, director and writer Ghafir Akbar, HANDS will demonstrate the spirit of taksu through the shigu (Chinese lion drum) and its wide ranging timbre sounds, alongside the metallic symphony of the Malay and Balinese gamelan.

The contemporary musical performance will be complemented by traditional Kelantanese dance and the natural sounds of choral group, La Voce.

When: 4 – 6 October Where: KLPAC, Sentul, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia facebook.com/handspercussion

Journey To Stage

Step into the world of rock musicals with Rocking Broadway, and follow rock n’ roll’s exhilarating journey onto the musical stage. Presented by Dama Asia Productions, this docutainment will feature favourite musical hits from successful Broadway and West End shows, including Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Grease, Rent, Hedwig and The Angry Inch, Tick Tick … Boom!, We Will Rock You, Spring Awakening, and Rock Of Ages.

Also expect to see recent hits from musicals such as Memphis, American Idiot, Dear Evan Hansen and family favourite, School of Rock.

When: 6 – 10 November Where: KLPAC, Sentul, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia facebook.com/damaasiaproductions/

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Healthy Fun

Annual health and wellness event Murfest returns for its sixth year, centred around healing, fitness, personal growth, music and dance.

This year, there will be over 80 workshops, including yoga classes, sound healing, breathwork sessions and more, facilitated by top practitioners from around the world. The fun-filled three day festival also features a wellness exhibition that offers the latest from the natural health and beauty world, as well as organic and homegrown products such as homemade soaps, candles, all-natural creams and more.

When: 8 – 10 November Where: Palace of the Golden Horses, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia murfest.com

sgiff.com

THE CHORUS SECRET SUPERSTAR

Free public outdoor cinema series Moonlight Cinema returns to Singapore as part of the Singapore International Film Festival, inviting friends and family to cosy up under the stars and watch films while enjoying an array of food.

This time, three films featuring stories on youth and chasing one’s dreams will be screened, including American comedy drama Empire Records, which follows a tight-knit group of young employees who work together to save their indie record store; as well as critically-acclaimed French film The Chorus, which explores the journey of a music teacher who discovers the musical promise of an aimless child in a boarding school. Finally, there is the award-winning Indian musical drama Secret Superstar, which tells the tale of a teenage girl living amidst domestic abuse, who becomes a YouTube sensation after a video in which she hides her identity goes viral.

When: 25 – 27 November Where: Supertree Grove Lawn, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

SECRET SUPERSTAR

Movie Nights

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C o m f o r t Z o n e : W h e r e To S t a y

DESARU, JOHOR, MALAYSIA

A Rockin’ Retreat

Get ready to rock the next family vacation at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast.

The family-friendly hotel has 365 spacious, music-inspired non-smoking rooms and suites, 175 of which are family rooms. Music fans will love Hard Rock Hotel’s signature experiences with The Sound of Your Stay, where guests can access complimentary music amenities, such as premium Fender electric guitars and turntables with iconic vinyl records, for use in their rooms.

Unwind in the hotel’s Rock Spa, which offers signature spa treatments with a musical twist, or work out in the 24-hour fitness centre or outdoor swimming pool. Children will be in for a fun time with daily activities at the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club. Outside of the resort, guests can enjoy direct access to the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark; walk out to Riverside, a nine-hectare retail and lifestyle village; or take a short drive to The Els Club, a 45-hole championship golf course.

Address: Jalan Pantai 3, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar, Johor, Malaysia hardrockhotels.com/desaru-coast

SINGAPORE

Modern & Stylish

Designed by renowned French designer Philippe Starck, M Social Singapore is a contemporary lifestyle hotel that embodies the spirit of adventure and self-discovery, bringing all kinds of guests together from business travellers to ‘staycationers’. Located along the happening Robertson Quay, this designer hotel has 293 alcove and loft-style rooms, which provides more room for bigger groups of travellers.

Enjoy friendly service from human and non-human staff alike – autonomous staff members include the breakfast chef robot and the front of house and room service robot. East meets West at Beast & Butterflies, the hotel’s all-in-one fusion restaurant, lounge and bar. The 38-square-metre My Space is equipped with meeting facilities and high-speed Internet access for business meetings but can also serve as a stylish venue for parties. Get in some exercise at the fitness centre or outdoor pool, or make use of the free shuttle bus services to get out and explore Singapore.

Address: 90 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238259 msocial.com.sg

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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

For Work & Play

Strategically located in the heart of the city, right beside the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur provides quality accommodation within easy reach of KL’s most happening districts. The hotel offers 571 well-appointed rooms and suites with numerous useful services for business travellers; from public wireless Internet access to a business centre, foreign currency exchange counter, postal and courier services, laundry, as well as limousine services.

One of the most recognisable features at Traders is its famous SkyBar, serving creative cocktails by the rooftop pool with nightly music by DJs. Options for dining in include the international buffet at Gobo Chit Chat and fine grilled dishes at Gobo Upstairs Lounge & Grill. Guests can choose to work up a sweat in the 24-hour gym or go for a jog in the nearby KLCC Park. Traders Hotel offers meeting rooms for business use, but the hotel can also connect guests with KLCC to organise larger functions.

Address: Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia shangri-la.com/kualalumpur/traders

SINGAPORE

Colourful Stay

Step into tasteful technicolour spaces in the heart of Singapore’s Chinatown at the newly-opened Hotel Soloha. The boutique hotel located in the Keong Saik neighbourhood has 45 cosy rooms fitted with comfortable beds with underbed luggage storage, Smart Room Control Units for lighting and air-conditioning, and Smart Cable TV with access to cable, paid channels and web-based services like Netflix and Spotify. Book a loft or suite for added space, a private outdoor garden with a bathtub, and a good view of the street and hotel courtyard. While Chinatown is a major hub for dining in its own right, guests can choose to dine in at Takeshi Noodle Bar, the hotel’s new fusion ramen establishment, or enjoy a cool drink while socialising at the chic bar reception area. Hotel Soloha also offers its spaces for event bookings, including Takeshi Noodle Bar’s dining space, the bar and lounge, as well as the courtyard.

Address: 12 Teck Lim Road, Singapore 088387 solohahotels.com

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B i t e s : W h e r e To E a t

Cream Of The Crop

Crème De La Crème has become the go-to dessert café for ice cream enthusiasts in Kuala Lumpur. Located in Damansara Uptown, CDLC (as it is more commonly known as) was opened with the main aim of offering delicious artisanal ice cream and their version of the gorgeous petit gateaux, also made with ice cream. Pastry chefs here have trained under Christy Tania, the renowned Australia-based pastry chef of MasterChef Australia fame. Everything here is made from scratch using fresh, natural ingredients with no artificial colouring or flavouring. Great pride is taken in every pint created and the flavours capture Malaysian favourites like pandan kaya toast, teh tarik, barley lime and the mighty musang king durian perfectly, with new flavours introduced regularly that cater to every discerning taste.

Address: 35G, Ground Floor, Jalan SS 21/60, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia facebook.com/mycdlc

PHOTOS: KAYRA AUTHENTIC KERALA CUISINE FB / INSTAGRAM

Authentic Keralan Cuisine

Kerala is located on the Malabar coast in India and its cuisine reflects its geography with the use of seafood, coconut and spices like pepper, cinnamon, cloves and ginger. Kayra Kerala Cuisine recently opened a branch in Bangsar Village, offering a menu of authentic Keralan specialties. This is food that entices all the senses, and the kitchen team has successfully modernised traditional dishes without sacrificing taste. The Short Eats section of the menu is ideal for tasting and sharing a variety of dishes. Their made-to-order puttu (steamed ground rice and coconut) is a great accompaniment to their curries – the Mutton Pirlan and Prawn Mango Curry come recommended.

Vegetarian options are readily available, and another signature option is the Waffam – an appam waffle – made either savoury or sweet to end the meal.

Address: Bangsar Village, 1, Jalan Telawi 1, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia instagram.com/kayrakeralacuisine

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Dining Way Up High

PHOTOS: BLACKBYRD KL FACEBOOK

Kuala Lumpur has its fair share of rooftop bars and elevated dining – all offering their unique take on the view and cuisine. Blackbyrd is part of an Indonesian group with many successful cafés, restaurants and clubs in Jakarta. The menu aims to impress, offering a fine selection of international dishes featuring local and regional flavours.

Start the meal on a sharing note with the Wagyu Beef Satay and Crispy Nori Crunch (ginger and sesame oil marinated salmon with crispy, battered seaweed), followed by either their house-made pasta dishes or signatures like the Bebek Goreng.

Dessert is also a fusion affair with the Es Cendol Waffle combining cendol toppings with coconut ice cream. If you’re up for a party, head to the adjoining Dragonfly club for a proper night out.

Address: Level 50, Naza Tower, Platinum Park, 10, Persiaran KLCC, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia facebook.com/blackbyrd.kl

A Taste Of London

Crispy fried chicken is one of the great pleasures of eating and if you like your chicken perfectly marinated and battered, Wing Wing delivers on all fronts. The famed London-based Korean-style fried chicken eatery has opened an outlet at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and brings chicken wings, drumettes and drumsticks to another level. Chicken is delivered fresh daily, marinated, battered and handbrushed with French flour and spices. It’s this hand coating that sets Wing Wing apart. Choose from three flavours – soy garlic, spicy and liquorice – and sides like French fries, salad and kimchi coleslaw. Try their other signature, Chicken Katsu Bao, which is fried chicken and kimchi coleslaw in a lightly fried mantou bun and is as tasty as it sounds.

Address: Lot 6.01.01, Level 6, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia wingwingasia.com

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Q u e n c h : W h e r e To D r i n k

The Show Must Go On

City bar hoppers have a favourite speakeasy and PS150 is always at the top of the list. The people behind PS150 have now opened Tickets at the newly revamped Republik, touted to be the dining and party destination in Damansara Heights.

The concept of Tickets revolves around having different flavours and themes and for now it’s all about Agave-based spirits (mezcal and tequila), Latin American classics and local flavours. There’s an extensive list of tequila and mezcal and ordering a flight is a good way to get the party started. Cocktail fans will be happy to see inventive concoctions like Beyond Sunrise (Ocho Blanco, orange, lemon, yuzu, port-pomegranate-chipotle reduction, sea salt, egg white) and many others to whet the appetite.

Address: Lot G05, Ground Floor, Republik Damansara Heights, 1, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia ticketskl.bar

PHOTOS: RAKESH RISHYAKARAN / CIGAR BAR KL INSTAGRAM

Smoke Gets In Your Eyes

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Cohiba, Romeo Y Julieta, Partagas … If you like cigars, these names will be familiar – and The Cigar Bar is just the place for you. Cigars and whiskies are main players here, and as expected, the interior is exactly how punters would expect: all luxe leather, a bar and of course, an impressive walk-in humidor. Keep an eye out for the Cigar Bar Selects, where a curated pairing of cigars with whisky is organised for the ultimate experience. You don’t have to be a cigar expert to enjoy coming here as the staff are happy to guide you and make suggestions. It’s a great place to hang out after work, meet friends or even have a meeting and close that deal.

Address: Ground Floor, NAZA Tower Platinum Park, No.10, Persiaran KLCC, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia cigarbar.my

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All About Cocktails

PHOTOS: FLYING MONKEYS BAR INSTAGRAM

There’s something about a cocktail made with quality ingredients and innovative flavour combinations, and the Flying Monkeys mixologists know this. Named for the winged creatures from the Land of Oz, the bar is located on busy Jalan Imbi and has an inviting menu divided into the following – Riff on the Classics, Contemporary, Light & Easy and Tipsy-Free (teetotaller choices).

An example of the bar’s originality would be their take on that most classic of KL cocktails, the Jungle Bird. Called Winged Creatures, this potent drink comprises Kraken black spiced rum, Cointreau, Campari, not-so-simple syrup, lime and pineapple. Another plus is the cool interiors with the flying monkeys in full attendance!

Address: 8th Floor, Tribeca Hotel & Serviced Suites, Jalan Imbi, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia facebook.com/flyingmonkeysmy

The Saké Experience

PHOTOS: THE SAKE PLACE FACEBOOK

Saké is Japan’s most famous alcoholic export and is made from fermenting polished rice. It’s a unique drink in that it can’t be categorised as a beer, wine or spirit, as the alcoholic content and processes differ. It was only a matter of time before a saké-centric establishment opened in Kuala Lumpur, and The Saké Place certainly lives up to its name.

It’s interesting to note that the founder is one of the first eight Master Saké Sommeliers in the world and whatever is served here is top quality. Try a tasting flight or an unconventional pairing with non-Japanese food; and keep an eye out for the saké tasting sessions, which are a popular way to get to know how to drink and appreciate this alcoholic beverage.

Address: Level 1 Block Faraday F-1-16, Plaza Arkadia, No. 3 Jalan Intisari Perdana, Desa Parkcity, 52200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia facebook.com/ thesakeplace

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S P E C IAL F EATU R E

legend first aid fire extinguisher keluar sign

Play, Work & Eat Time. There is never enough of it.

The modern parent hurtles through a hectic schedule during the week, while battling with the ever-present guilt that they are not spending sufficient time with their kids. Sometimes it is only at the weekends that they get the opportunity to spend quality family time. At that point, they may be flat out exhausted having had a long week at work, juggling chores, responsibilities, daily logistics and what-not.

Why not take a day to try a slightly different routine? Instead of working from home or from the office, take your kids to a place where you can work in peace and while you work, your kids will be engaged in activities that spark their curious minds, engage their artistic and motor skills, and develop their love of reading – all in a fun and safe environment called LinDees! And during

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your breaks, you can join your kids in active play and eat a wholesome meal together!

The first of its kind, LinDees is an integrated family space for Play, Work and Eats that is uniquely Malaysian. Set in a 10,000 square feet space, LinDees is designed to remind Malaysians of our culture and heritage, while allowing the modern parent to work and play with their children in the same place. The playground consists of two kampung houses for kids and adults, a spread of local batik and songket fabrics for sensory play, Ting-Ting and Batu Seremban, to bring out the kids in parents and to share these childhood games with our children. The LinDees playground also has a library with multi-lingual children’s and adults’ books together with a stage for

Snap a photo of this page and get

10% OFF

co-working space and playground entry at LinDees! Offer valid until 31 December 2019.

performances. The co-working space includes fully-equipped meeting rooms, hot desks, and private pods for parents to be productive, while the restaurant offers delicious local and western food, which you may finish off with a scoop of Cold Stone Creamery ice cream and a cup of artisan coffee by Skinny Man. This month, try working the LinDees way!

Take your kids to a place where you can be productive and get work done while at the same time engage in quality family time.

Jom Play, Work and Eat!

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Te c h U p : G a d g e t s

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Comprehensive Tracking

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Honor has recently unveiled the Band 5, a fitness wearable that comes with all the usual features like activity tracking, heart rate measuring and notification experience. A brand new addition, however, is the blood oxygen monitor – which allows for the detection of a person’s fatigue level.

RRP: RM149 hihonor.com

More Than Meets The Eye

The Huawei Y9 Prime 2019 is a phone with a pop-up selfie camera. Housed within it is a 16MP sensor, alongside an f/2.2 lens and AI-driven scene identifiers. An additional three cameras can be found on the case back – a 16MP f/1.8 camera together with an 8MP ultra wide-angle camera and 2MP depth sensor.

RRP: RM899 huawei.com

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Powerfully Built

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The Xperia 1 from Sony is a powerhouse of a phone. It sports an ultra-wide 21:9 aspect ratio 4K HDR OLED display and a triple lens camera, plus a sleek metal frame with durable Corning Gorilla Glass 6 front and back that offers IP65/68 water resistant protection against the elements.

RRP: USD949 (RM3,983) sonymobile.com

Not Exactly A Lightweight

Samsung’s Galaxy Book S brings the advantages of the smartphone to a notebook. The device is just 11.8mm thick and weighs less than 1kg. It also turns on in an instant, connects with LTE and comes with a 42Wh battery that lasts for up to 23 hours of video playback on a single charge.

RRP: USD999 (RM4,193) samsung.com

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12 H o u r s Text & Photos Dharm Navaratnam / Illustration Lauren Rebbeck / Art Direction Euric Liew

City

Walkabout WHILE KOTA KINABALU (KK) IS SYNONYMOUS WITH MOUNT KINABALU, THE CITY CENTRE IS A TREASURE TROVE OF HISTORY AND INTERESTING PLACES TO VISIT. THE BEST WAY TO EXPLORE IT ALL IS BY FOOT. View of city centre from Signal Hill Observatory Tower

TOURISM MALAYSIA

Atkinson Clock Tower. It is one of the oldest structures in Sabah, showing the time to visitors to the area since 1905.

It commemorates Francis George Atkinson, the first District Officer of Jesselton (as KK was formerly known), who died of malaria at the age of 28. The tower is one of three structures that was left undamaged after World War II. It was gazetted as a heritage site in 1983.

8.00am

Start the day with breakfast at the Centrepoint Mall food court that opens as early as 7 am. There’s a wide variety of food on offer, and a must-try is the Roti Cobra, which is basically roti canai slathered in curry with a sunny-side up egg on top. After fuelling yourself up, take a leisurely walk to Plaza Shell, a modern structure that contrasts with the older buildings in the area. Buildings in the city are

On the way there you will see Masjid USIA Bandar Kota Kinabalu on the right.

The interesting thing about this mosque is that it was formerly the Seventh Day Adventist church. It was bought over by the United Sabah Islamic Association (USIA) in 1974 and converted into a mosque.

restricted in height by strict building codes, possibly due to the proximity of the airport to the city centre.

9.00am

Head north towards Padang Merdeka, the site where the declaration of Sabah joining Malaya to form Malaysia alongside Sarawak, was made in 1963. It was gazetted as a heritage site

by Sabah’s State Heritage Council on 23 February 2018.

9.30am

Situated on a small hill just past Padang Merdeka is the

Further on is Australia Place, where Australian soldiers first camped when they landed in Jesselton in 1945. In those days, the shoreline was much closer to the spot, until land reclamation works started.

The area is now a quiet street made up of shops and backpacker hostels.

A plaque at one of the hostels displays the Australian Coat of Arms and an explanation of how Australia Place got its name.

10.00am

At the Kota Kinabalu Community Centre, you will find a set of stairs leading up to the Signal Hill Observatory Tower, the highest point in the city.

Once at the top, visitors will get a commanding view of

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11.00am

Along Gaya Street you will see Jesselton Hotel, the first hotel built in KK. Notable guests include Edwina Mountbatten and Mohammad Ali. Further up, the Sabah Tourism Board office is a quaint building built in 1916 that initially housed the Printing Office before becoming the premises for the Treasury, Audit Office, Town Board, District Office and the Attorney General’s Office. This is another one of three buildings that was left standing after World War II. From the 1950s up until

Social Welfare Office, and later the office for the Society for the Blind. In 1992, the Sabah Art Gallery submitted a proposal to use the building as their premises.

However, barely a month later, the building was destroyed in a morning fire, leaving behind only concrete pillars. The structure was left abandoned for almost 20 years. It is now used as a showcase for Sabah’s street artists. The current exhibition, known as Pillars of Sabah 2.0, depicts endangered wildlife in the state. The area is also popular for photo shoots, and it is not uncommon to see youths practising dance moves here at night.

1986, the building served as a post office. It underwent restoration works and was gazetted as a heritage building, and officially became the home of the Sabah Tourism Board in January 1991. In true KK style, the staff are very friendly and ever willing to answer any questions you may have.

You can also get a map of the city here.

TOURISM MALAYSIA

the city, the sea, and the islands beyond. Take the time to refresh yourself and have a cool drink while enjoying the sights.

12.00pm

Around the corner you will find the modern Suria Sabah shopping mall. Directly opposite the mall is the collective street art project known as Pillars of Sabah, an Instagram-worthy spot.

Formerly the site of the Land and Survey Building, it was converted to become the

Pillars of Sabah

1.00pm

For lunch, Kedai Kopi Yee Fun on Gaya Street is a good bet. This pork-free coffee shop is famous for its laksa and ngiu chap (beef noodles). They also serve a decent claypot chicken rice.

Wash the food down with jus kedondong (umbra juice).

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North Borneo War Monument

THINGS TO BUY

Next, stroll down Jalan Pantai or Beach Street.

Before reclamation works, this was where the shoreline began, hence the name.

Here you will find Tugu Peringatan Malaysia, built to commemorate Sabah’s entry, together with Sarawak and the Federation of Malaya, to form Malaysia.

Further down on Jalan Tugu is the city park that houses the British North Borneo Memorial. Erected in 1923 by the North Borneo Chartered Company on Gaya Street, it was later moved to its present site. Originally a memorial for the 13 British soldiers who gave up their lives during World War I, their names are inscribed on the plaque on the monument.

Later on, another plaque was added at the base of the monument to honour the Australian soldiers in World War II. Across from the memorial you will find the KK City Hall as well as the old High Court.

2.30pm

Double back to Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens along the sea-front to enjoy the cool sea breeze, the view of the islands, and fishing vessels.

This is where you will find the 'I Love KK' structure, another Instagram-worthy spot. Shop like a local at KK Central

TOURISM MALAYSIA

The Marlin Statue

Handicraft Market

Market, which sells meat, fruits and vegetables as well as dried seafood. Behind it is the Fish Market where freshly caught seafood are sold.

It is not uncommon to see fishermen dropping off their haul directly at the market or fresh seafood larger than the usual sizes on display.

The market opens as early as 6 am and this is when restaurant owners come by to get their fresh supplies for the day. The Handicraft Market, known locally as the Filipino Market is the best place to find souvenirs as well as traditional handicraft and fashion accessories.

some snacks and cold beverages. Some of the outlets offer a selection of cocktails featuring the local rice wine, talak.

7.00pm

Head to the Night Market just beside the Waterfront, where you can find a myriad of stalls selling tasty snacks and kuih-muih as well as more fresh produce. You can even sit down to have a full meal. Order the seafood dishes.

HANDICRAFT: Made from materials such as wood, leaves, fabric, rattan, copper and clay, there is a veritable range of handicraft on offer made by the indigenous people of Sabah. These include food covers, traditional baskets known as wakid, and multi-coloured beaded accessories.

8.30pm

Finish off the day with a sumptuous seafood dinner at Welcome Seafood Restaurant at Asia City Complex. For post-dinner relaxation, head next door to Hilton Kota Kinabalu's Club Bar for an extensive selection of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks and cigars.

5.00pm

Just past the Filipino Market is the KK Waterfront, a collection of restaurants and watering holes. It is a great place to relax and watch the sun set over the South China Sea while enjoying

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SEAFOOD: Fresh, frozen and dried seafood are available at the Central Market and even at the airport. Prices at the market are markedly cheaper and a lot depends on your bargaining skills. You can even get fresh seafood packed for your flight home.

BLING-BLING: Jewellery made out of semi-precious stones and crystals are a favourite item to get in KK. You can also find necklaces and pendants made from freshwater pearls. Buttons for Baju Melayu are also popular, and come in an assortment of designs.

Prices for the jewellery vary depending on the grades and craftsmanship.

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YOUTHFUL & EDGY

Kipling has partnered with renowned Chinese designer Christine Lau for its Fall/Winter 2019 season, which draws inspiration from music, nature, art and other forms of creative expression.

The KIPLING X CHRISTINE LAU collection features two chic designs: a satin dragonfly applique on quilted fabric and a youthful lime green graffiti-inspired music print on juniper.

The designs evoke a sense of unbound freedom – so you can explore the urban playground without being weighed down.

Affectionately known as the Queen of Prints in her homeland of China, Lau’s signature design – the dragonfly print – displays cutting edge elegance alongside playful originality. A premium finish adds an elevated sense of femininity, making an impactful statement. Symbolising strength, courage and freedom, the exclusive collection is meant to inspire you to live in the moment and feel the lightness of being.

Fun is also at the heart of Lau’s design. The music print collection is bold, playful and full of confidence; embodying the modern woman with a sophisticated yet cheerful character. The striking neon green design reflects a light and energetic way of living, and how music affects our emotions and inspires us in our everyday lives.

Both designs are available in three bag styles: the Delia, Art M and Art Mini. Delia is made with urban mobility in mind, in the form of a backpack with a feminine silhouette and plenty of space to fit everyday essentials. The Art M is the perfect everyday carry-on that goes well with any outfit, with a front zipper pocket to securely store items such as mobile phones and keys. For those who prefer versatility, the Art Mini is an all-round ladies handbag with adjustable corners that can alter the size and look of it in an instant.

GENTING HIGHLANDS PREMIUM OUTLETS is a collection of 150 designer and brand name outlet stores offering savings of up to 65 percent off. Situated approximately 51km northeast of the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, the center is easily accessible from the Klang Valley, Ipoh, Kuantan and Seremban via the North-South Expressway and the Karak Expressway. This makes Genting Highlands Premium Outlets the perfect retail destination for both tourists and locals alike.

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Suite 518 – Kipling KM13, Genting Highlands Resorts, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang Darul Makmur.

Tel: +603-6436 8098

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S a vo u r Text Richard Augustin Photos 123rf

SIGNATURE DEEPAVALI TREATS

Originating from the Indian subcontinent, these vegetable fritters are a fan favourite and not just for the festive season.

Vegetable

MURUKU Deepavali is not complete without muruku. This crowdpleasing snack is made with rice flour and spices, which is then shaped into spirals before being deep-fried.

Ingredients

Pakora

•1 big red onion (quartered and sliced) •100 gm cauliflower florets •100 gm carrot (shredded) •1 bunch of baby spinach (chopped) •2 stalks of spring onion (sliced) •2 tbsp chopped coriander

W

Method

EXTRA CRUNCHY AND DELIGHTFULLY TASTY, THIS CLASSIC INDIAN FINGER FOOD IS PERFECT AS A SNACK AT ANY TIME OF DAY.

hen it comes to festive treats during the Hindu festival of lights Diwali (or Deepavali as we know it in Malaysia), we all have our favourites. But in the midst of the curries and sambal dishes, the humble pakora has managed to become a staple at the dinner table.

Originating from the Indian subcontinent, these vegetable fritters are a fan favourite, and not just for the festive season. The beauty of pakora lies in its simplicity – vegetables coated with a light batter, then deep-fried to golden brown perfection.

Often accompanied by a sauce or dip on the side, it is not only a quintessential Indian snack but a delightful appetiser to tuck into before a meal. It is also easy to make and quick to prepare, making it the perfect dish to whip up in the kitchen to serve to guests for tea or as a starter.

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Batter

•120 gm chickpea flour •½ tsp ground coriander •½ tsp salt •½ tsp garam masala •1 tsp ground turmeric •¼ tsp chilli powder •1 pinch ground cumin •2 cloves garlic (chopped) •5 tbsp water

•In a large bowl, sift the chickpea flour before adding in

the coriander, salt, garam masala, turmeric, chilli powder, cumin and garlic.

•Mix the dry ingredients well before slowly adding in water, stirring until a smooth and consistent batter is formed.

Once ready, set aside.

•Prepare the vegetables and place them in a large container or bowl.

•Toss the vegetables together until properly mixed.

•Add the vegetables to the batter and slowly stir them together until coated.

LADOO These ball-shaped desserts are essentially made from a combination of flour, semolina, ghee, sugar and raisins. The dough is cooked before being formed into spheres by hand.

•Over a medium flame, heat up the oil until it is hot enough for frying.

•Scoop a spoonful of battered vegetables and gently drop them into the oil.

•Fry them for a few minutes, turning them over, until each fritter is golden brown.

•Remove from oil and allow to drain on kitchen towels or a wire rack.

•Once slightly cool, place onto a platter. Serve with chilli sauce or yoghurt dip on the side.

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JALEBI Perfect for those with a sweet tooth, jalebi is made with a Maida flour-based batter, which is deep-fried in a circular shape before being soaked in sugar syrup.

ALOO BHUJIA Like the muruku, this savoury deep-fried crunchy snack is also a Deepavali favourite. It is made from chickpea flour and soft boiled potatoes.

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Insider’s Guide Text Patsy Kam / Photos Raymond Ooi

Kuala Lumpur’s Bukit Bintang area is a bustling hub of activity, with malls, restaurants, and entertainment centres within the vicinity

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Bright

City Lıghts

A HUB OF ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS, KUALA LUMPUR’S GOLDEN TRIANGLE IS WHERE IT ALL HAPPENS.

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high, and one can even dine in the rotating restaurant at the top.

A short distance away is Petaling Street, KL’s Chinatown and home to the original pop-up shops selling T-shirts, souvenirs and trinkets, along with inspired watches, bags and shoes, and Chinese traditional qipao and crafts too. Bargaining is a must but if you don’t like haggling, check out the street food instead. Some of the popular stalls have been operating here for decades and the businesses passed down from one generation to another.

Just down the road is the latest Instagram-worthy attraction, Kwai Chai Hong, which means ‘Little Ghost Lane’. Restored old pre-war buildings and a tucked away alley between Jalan Petaling and Lorong Panggung have been artistically revived by local artists with murals based on the daily activities of the area’s Chinese settlers during the 1960s.

F

lanked by the city’s three main arterial roads of Jalan Imbi, Jalan Raja Chulan and Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle is its key commercial district, where the tallest skyscrapers, the best five-star hotels, worldclass shopping malls and multi-national businesses are all concentrated in.

Sights To Behold

If you don’t have time for anything else, make sure to snap a close-up photo of KL’s iconic landmark, the Petronas Twin Towers. Once the tallest buildings in the world between 1998 and 2004, it remains the world’s tallest twin towers.

Housed within the adjacent Suria KLCC mall is the fun and immersive Petrosains, The Discovery Centre, where one can learn about science and the petroleum industry through interactive displays and interesting exhibits.

For a panoramic view of the city skyline, head up to the observation deck of the Kuala Lumpur Tower. The communications tower is constructed on top of a hill and stands at 421 metres

(from top) The iconic Petronas Twin Towers dominates the Kuala Lumpur skyline; a trader adjusts printed hand fans for sale in Chinatown; entrance into the upmarket Pavilion Kuala Lumpur mall

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Insider’s Guide

Buying Spree

The Golden Triangle is not called a shopping mecca for nothing. Aside from the small shops along the streets in Bukit Bintang which sell everything from clothes and shoes to gadgets and kitsch, the sheer number of high-rise shopping malls will make your head spin.

Smack in the centre lies luxury mall Pavilion Kuala Lumpur which showcases upmarket designer labels such as Celine, Gucci and Hermès, as well as accessible fashion brands like Topshop and Forever 21.

Festivities such as Chinese New Year and Christmas see both tourists and locals flocking to the mall’s atrium for a glimpse of its fancy decorations for the season.

About 200 metres away is Sungei Wang Plaza, housing a variety of shops carrying the latest fashion from Hong Kong, Korea and Japan, as well as young and trendy homegrown labels, mostly priced below RM100.

You can also get computers, gadgets, books, games and even homeware, all under one roof.

If all this bores you, hop over to Low Yat Plaza, considered the ultimate IT hypermarket. Expect to find every imaginable IT product here; be it laptops, handphones, cameras, phone accessories, games or computer software and hardware.

a bird’s eye view of the city’s highlights such as Central Market, National Mosque and Little India, and get off at places that pique your interest.

At first glance, KL looks like a concrete jungle, but KL Forest Eco Park, formerly known as Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve is easily accessible to the green explorer. The city’s only remaining natural tropical rainforest, it is home to birds, small mammals and some endangered plants. Boasting an impressive 200-metre canopy walk and a host of nature trails and jogging tracks, a walk through the park is a balm for the weary soul.

(from top left) Breakfast option at Tapestry; Jalan Bukit Bintang is chock-a-block with tourists; the KL Hop On Hop Off bus (inset) The latest Instagram-worthy attraction, Kwai Chai Hong

Feeling Peckish

On The Move

Start your day right with a hearty breakfast at Rise and Shine

by Tapestry, a cool, hip café on Jalan Kamunting. Light streams through the high skylights and brightens the artsy interior of this café, which serves Australian-style breakfasts with a Malaysian touch; and a mean cuppa, too.

One of the fastest ways to discover the city is to get on the KL Hop On Hop Off open-top double decker bus tours. Get

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Insider’s Guide

Quench Your Thirst

When night falls, the lights come on and a different vibe takes over. One of the latest places to wine and dine is BlackByrd KL, located on Level 50 of Naza Tower @ Platinum Park. The cosy lounge offers a magnificent view of the KL skyline and is a great place to unwind as you sip cocktails and listen to music.

Speakeasy bars are aplenty in the city and some of the more popular hidden bars include Suzie Wong (Wisma Lim Foo Yoong) that evokes memories of old Shanghai, spookythemed The Deceased Cocktail Bar (Jalan Sultan), the charming PS150 that used to be a brothel (Jalan Petaling), and Pahit (Jalan Sin Chew Kee), a gin-focused bar.

Non-caffeine fans might find Seniman Kakao, a homegrown bean-to-bar chocolate café on Jalan Pudu Lama, more enticing. Locally grown cacao beans from different states are roasted and refined into handcrafted chocolates. Whether drinking or eating them, you’ll be privy to some of the best Malaysian single origin chocolate.

For authentic Japanese cuisine, The Market at Isetan The Japan Store has the widest array of Japanese food on one floor, ranging from ramen, hotpot, yakitori (grilled meat on skewers) and sashimi, to prime beef cuts and Japanese fresh fruits. Dashi Dining Saya offers dishes that go with rice, while Ginza Hageten tempura bar, Tonkatsu Anzu and Sushi Azabu are all crowd-pullers.

For the ultimate Malaysian food experience, head to De.Wan 1958 at The Linc KL. Opened by internationally renowned chef Dato’ Redzuawan Ismail, better known as Chef Wan, the restaurant is a celebration of modern Malaysian cuisine and a culmination of the chef’s heritage and culinary journey. From simple starters such as Cucur Udang to more complicated dishes like Daging Oppo Terengganu, everything is cooked according to the chef’s meticulous standards – for a balance of flavours that tastes familiar yet incomparable.

(clockwise from left) Find the widest array of Japanese food at The Market at Isetan The Japan Store; Mr Chew’s Chino Latino Bar & Restaurant; Seniman Kakao’s handcrafted chocolates; De.Wan’s take on modern Malaysian cuisine

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OLD BUT GOLD RESTAURANT SEK YUEN

In Bukit Bintang itself, there’s Mr Chew’s Chino Latino Bar & Restaurant.

Housed in a loft-like space, its tall windows overlook downtown KL and if the upbeat music doesn’t move you, the tempting dessert bar will.

At the edge of the Golden Triangle is TREC on Jalan Tun Razak, where you can have your choice of poison or dance the night away. An unlikely fairy tale comes in the form of Iron Fairies, a one-of-akind bar that conjures its own cocktails and offers an impressive list of wines and whiskies too.

This iconic 70-year-old restaurant specialises in Cantonese cuisine and still serves oldfashioned dishes like cold appetiser, steam tofu with fish paste and pei pa duck.

Tribeca Serviced Suites, managed

by Federal Hotels, is an urban retreat within walking distance of the city’s attractions (all photos on this page are courtesy of Tribeca)

travellers who enjoy weekend getaways or family escapades.

Consisting of 103 thoughtfully designed suites and five specially curated lifestyle pods – Zen, Social, Gym, Business and Jungle Pods – guests can be assured of a quality stay that will leave them feeling rejuvenated. Dining needs are met at the contemporary Wizards café, while Flying Monkey Bar is its trendy watering hole. Located on the sixth and seventh floors, Regus provides a professional working space, which includes individual offices, co-working spaces and meeting facilities.

Comfortable Abode

An urban retreat within walking distance to the city’s attractions, Tribeca Serviced Suites is managed by Federal Hotels International and caters to discerning

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AH WENG KOH HAINAN TEA

From its humble beginnings in Bukit Bintang Market in 1964 to its present day home in a modern mall, it touts to serve the finest Hainan tea, coffee and toasts that taste the same as when it first started 50 years ago.

COLISEUM CAFE & HOTEL Soak in the atmosphere and enjoy its signature Hainanese Chicken Chop, along with other authentic Hainanese western fare at its original premises, established since 1921.

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P e r s p e c t i ve Text Jason Kwong / Photos Goh Seng Chong

Best Face

Forward WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO OVERSEE ONE OF THE BIGGEST BEAUTY PRODUCT DIVISIONS IN THE REGION? STEVEN JEONG, BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF LG HOUSEHOLD & HEALTH CARE SINGAPORE & MALAYSIA, HAS THE ANSWERS.

S

teven Jeong likes to keep things simple – discern what the market has to say before making decisions. His ability to be objective is the reason why he is often a logical voice of reason in an industry where preferences are often fickle and ambivalent.

In his early 40s, Jeong has close to two decades of experience working in one of South Korea’s largest multinational conglomerates.

He made an interesting switch from LG Electronics to LG Household & Health Care (LG H&H), the latter of which includes South Korean beauty brand THE FACE SHOP, as well as household names such as VDIVOV, Beyond, Beyond The Remedy and CNP Laboratory. It has been, he says, an interesting transition, with several memorable milestones along the way. He now oversees regional strategy and business operations from Kuala Lumpur as business director for LG H&H Singapore and Malaysia.

(Opposite page) Jeong thrives on meeting challenges head on (Below) The popular belif range

“Yes, it was the ‘beauty industry’ that I made the decision to move to,” laughs Jeong. “I was 13 years old when I dreamt of working in a dynamic and challenging industry. After reading a book written by a successful entrepreneur, I was excited at the prospect of meeting new people, facing challenges head-on and making something happen in the market. The core remains the same, no matter the industry – it should revolve around our customers,” he says.

When Jeong first took up the mantle in 2017, he wasted no time at all getting into the action, personally visiting various key markets. This gave him an understanding of how external stakeholders viewed the company and its customer-focused products.

“Obviously, THE FACE SHOP is one of the few pioneering South Korean beauty brands and it has had a strong foothold in Malaysia for the past 13 years,” he says. “The brand has evolved and expanded tremendously, catering to women and men of all ages. The key factor to our success is working to satisfy our customers, by having a wide range of

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selections to choose from. New lines ensure that we are market leaders known for our quality products.”

The company has been reaping the rewards of Jeong’s leadership, with healthy sales turnover placing them ahead of the competition. Jeong is focused on keeping this steady growth, by adapting to the ideals his diverse industrial experience and international worldview have afforded him.

“It helps to be informed and prepared. Digital marketing has helped in rebuilding and repositioning the brand, making it both readily accessible online and at the 50 outlets locally,” he says.

“E-commerce is not a threat to traditional physical stores. We believe it is another distribution channel and achieving a good balance of both is crucial. We are also changing the store concept to that of a one-stop skincare centre, catering to all ages and gender.”

Likewise, engaging global brand ambassadors as the face and voice of the brand has also helped. “In Malaysia, we have interactive reviews and programmes with visiting Korean ambassadors. We have witnessed how they have helped the brand and it has always been a positive experience working with both local and international influencers,” he says.

P e r s p e c t i ve

As with any business, there are challenges. Jeong’s concerns are centred on the brand’s greatest asset, but also its limitation. From his perspective, the brand’s legitimacy stems from the awareness and the clout of the division’s capabilities. At the same time, its growth is often constrained by the need to meet consumers' ever-evolving demand.

The key factor to our success is working to satisfy our customers, by having a wide range of selections to choose from.

“All decisions revolve around the individuals who buy our products.

Because of this, we must ensure operational excellence,” says Jeong.

“We have to launch the right product at the right time and price, and communicate this well to our customers.

The rest is business planning and execution. Of course, there are different localised conditions to each country, but I believe this is the recipe for success.”

customer experiences in South Korea, China, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia,” he says.

Valuable feedback has also guided him in rejuvenating certain product lines. “In Malaysia, our best-selling Yehwadam series is focused on preventing ageing with an emphasis on brightening and maintaining skin elasticity and moisture levels,” he says, nothing that belif’s playful sounding Moisture Bomb cream works very well for “really dry skin” while The History of Whoo’s Bicheop Jasaeng Essence is his pick to aid skin regeneration due to its ingredients of cordyceps and lotus.

THE FACE SHOP is one of the few pioneering South Korean beauty brands in Malaysia

It pays, too, that the idea of a grooming regime for men is no longer an afterthought, thanks to preening male K-pop idols who have swayed many to pay heed to their own skin.

“Men do not normally wear makeup, so just start with a face cleansing foam,” says Jeong. “I’ll also suggest the application of a toner and a light emulsion to moisturise the skin. Jointly, this creates a protective layer and maintains the skin’s PH level. I do the same and from time to time, I’ll enjoy a mask sheet from the refrigerator to cool down after some outdoor activities.”

On a broader level, Jeong believes that they must do more to compete with European and Japanese beauty brands targeting Asian consumers, which is why he takes great pride in relaunching The History of Whoo and belif product lines in Malaysia, after they were acquired by LG H&H.

In Malaysia, sunscreen for adequate protection to prevent rapid ageing and dark or sun spots is also a must, which Jeong does. He recommends the Natural Sun Eco range as his go-to in our hot and humid climate. “In fact, you may also want to apply sunscreen indoors, because there are ultraviolet rays entering through windows,” he says.

“It has been a dynamic year for us with both brands achieving impressive revenue milestones and providing new

With sound logic like that, it’s impossible to argue. New outlets are opening, business is booming, and it’s full steam ahead for the foreseeable future.

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S P E C IAL F EATU R E

VITAL ENERGY

For Skin For centuries, Korean women have known that the essence of healthy, youthful and glowing skin lies in the balance of the skin’s vital energy or qi. Based on this intimate knowledge, they have been using age-old medicinal practices to harness their natural beauty.

When the skin is lacking vital energy, it can manifest in several ways such as patchy or sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles, dry skin, excess sebum, and acne. This leads to skin dullness and uneven texture. Using makeup to cover up these imperfections only makes them worse. Not only does makeup not sit well, it depletes the skin’s vital energy further. Managing the root cause will prevent this vicious cycle.

To address skin’s qi imbalance, THE FACE SHOP has introduced Yehwadam First Serum, the first moistureenhancing anti-aging solution that uses traditional medicinal ingredients and practices employed by Korean women for hundreds of years. Featuring an ultra-lightweight water texture, the Yehwadam First Serum delivers intensive hydration to the skin, preparing it to fully absorb the products that come after.

The serum comprises a trio of herbs namely ginseng, which helps to promote collagen synthesis and cell activation while preventing premature aging; safflower, which improves the complexion by promoting collagen synthesis and preventing inflammation; and goji berry, which increases skin hydration and promote firmness.

The versatile Yehwadam First Serum can be used as part of a daily skincare routine by applying to the skin after cleansing or as a refreshing and energising face mist. Store it in the fridge in a spray bottle for a cool pick-me-up at the end of the day or use it as a soothing mask by soaking the serum in cotton pads and placing it on the cheeks or other areas prone to dryness and dullness.

The First Serum is specially formulated to complement Yehwadam’s existing skincare lines. It can be used with the Revitalising Moisturising line for hydration; Revitalising line for balancing; Pure Brightening line for brightening; Heaven Grade Ginseng line for anti-aging; and Hwanseanggo Ultimate Rejuvenating line for radiance and anti-aging.

The Yehwadam First Serum is available at all THE FACE SHOP stores nationwide and online at thefaceshop.com.my.

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Tracker Text Tracey Petherick

Drink In The

View

OUR PICK OF THE WORLD’S BEST ROOFTOP BARS WITH INCREDIBLE SIGHTS.

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Tracker Text Tracey Petherick

The Press Lounge, New York City, USA

This elegant 16th-floor bar has a stylish décor, a cool vibe and 360-degree views of the New York skyline and Hudson River. Once described as ‘Heaven in Hell’s Kitchen’, The Press Lounge is a must visit for visitors to Manhattan. Wash down tasty small plates like the warm house-made “Presstzel” with local wines and draught beers, or go straight to the cocktails, many of which are inspired by the availability of seasonal ingredients.

While here, do try the fragrant, gin-based Blame It On The Spruce. The terrace has a decorative pool and fire pits for chilly evenings. Alternatively, stay inside to enjoy the view through vast floor-to-ceiling windows.

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Baba Nest, Phuket, Thailand

A floating bar in the centre of a wraparound infinity pool makes Baba Nest at Phuket’s Sri Panwa resort one of the most unique – not to mention beautiful – rooftop bars. The deck is strewn with huge comfy pillows, making it the perfect place to chill out with a cocktail and watch the sun set over the Andaman Sea and surrounding islands.

The menu is Mexican tapas (including the must-try shrimp ceviche) while the bar serves up delicious cocktails. Check out the Sri-jito, Sri Panwa’s twist on the mojito, with lemongrass-infused Belvedere vodka, lemongrass tea, fresh lime, and mint.

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High Note SkyBar, Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s nightlife is said to be unrivalled in Central and Eastern Europe – and the High Note SkyBar should definitely be on your list. Located on the roof of the Aria Hotel, right next to the famous St. Stephen’s Basilica, the bar is designed as a roof garden, with two levels connected by a glass staircase. From the panoramic terraces, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of this evocative city as you enjoy handcrafted drinks and exquisite bar food. The menu – described as ‘cocktail fine dining’ – changes with the seasons, while the atmosphere remains entirely relaxed. Settle into the modern decor and take in all that historic architecture.

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Rock Bar, Bali

Possibly the most Instagrammable bar in the world, the open-top Rock Bar at Bali’s Ayana Resort is set atop limestone cliffs, 14 metres above the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean. Just getting here is an adventure, via funicular or an extended flight of steps through the rocks, but you’re rewarded with a dramatic view of the coastline – especially magical at sunset. The menu – devised by mixologist Sebastien Bonnefoi – blends local fruits, herbs and spices to create classic and signature cocktails. Arrive early for the best tables and soak up the glamorous beachside vibes while the resident DJ plays chilled-out beats from a booth carved into the rock-face.

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Level 43 Sky Lounge, Dubai

With panoramic views of iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Atlantis, and the Jumeirah coastline, this rooftop lounge bar is the ultimate in Dubai chic. Its blue-lit terrace wraps around the 43rd floor of the Four Points by Sheraton hotel, the perfect place to see the city light up at night.

Signature and classic cocktails include the Dubai Sling – Level 43’s take on the Singapore favourite – while food comes in the form of fabulous sushi made to order (try the Crazy Tiger Roll). Friendly, accommodating staff, a DJ that takes requests and live music twice a week all add to the welcoming atmosphere.

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Humble Beginnings Text Eris Choo / Photos courtesy of Ento

Grub Gourmet

KEVIN WU OF ENTO LEAVES A PROMISING CAREER IN LAW TO FARM INSECTS.

consumption. The mission? To provide a healthy and sustainable protein source for the planet.

Wu says that the idea for Ento was inspired by the sustainability movement in the United States and Europe, and how companies are farming insects as an alternative to conventional agriculture.

Wu’s passion for sustainability prompted him to launch Ento, which farms and turns crickets into food for human consumption

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evin Wu had a promising legal career.

Raised in the United Kingdom, the 26-yearold studied law and was called to the bar in London. He returned to Malaysia to chamber at one of the largest law firms in Kuala Lumpur, but something felt amiss.

“I wanted to get my hands on some products, just to try them out. Turns out, no one was retailing it here, so I had to import them from overseas,” Wu recalls, adding that high labour costs and unfavourable weather conditions for insect breeding in the U.S. and Europe meant that prices were extremely high.

Since crickets thrive in warm conditions and are readily available in the region, Wu saw the potential and competitive advantage of having a similar setup in Malaysia.

“I felt like it wasn’t my true calling, so pretty soon after I qualified (as a lawyer), I decided to leave the profession and pursue my passion instead,” says Wu.

The practice of eating insects, or entomophagy, is nothing new, especially in many parts of Southeast Asia. In places like Thailand, Laos and Cambodia, it is common to see deep fried bugs such as grasshoppers and cicadas being sold as street snacks.

The passion turned out to be something no one has done in Malaysia before: farming bugs. In 2018, Wu launched Ento – the first Malaysian start-up to farm and process crickets for human

With the global population explosion and calls for a more sustainable food source, insects are now considered the

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Humble Beginnings Text Eris Choo / Photography courtesy of Ento

(top) Ento’s whole roasted crickets come in three flavours to cater to different tastebuds (left) Crickets are considered the ‘least scary’ of all bugs

food of the future as they require less feed, land and water, and emit fewer greenhouse gases.

With this in mind, Ento released its first range of products – whole roasted crickets in three flavours, namely Singaporean Salted Egg Yolk, Texas BBQ and Korean Kimchi. “We wanted to have flavours that would cater to different consumers. Salted egg is a popular flavour in the market right now, while the barbecue is suitable for Western taste buds. The kimchi will appeal to those who like something spicy,” says Wu. Their latest product is the cricket protein powder, which is geared towards gym-goers who want to add extra protein to their cooking or smoothies, or even bake with it. “We also have uptake from manufacturers who make insectbased protein and require raw materials from suppliers such as ourselves,” he elaborates.

But why crickets? Wu says that they are considered ‘gateway’ bugs; being the ‘least scary’ for most people, and

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Humble Beginnings

a widely accepted insect when it comes to consumption.

They’re also high in protein and low in calories.

(bottom) Ento’s pilot farm where the crickets are bred and processed

Crickets contain about 56 percent of protein per 100 grammes, up to three times higher than beef and chicken.

They have up to seven times more iron than kale, four times more fibre than oatmeal, and twice as much potassium as bananas. They’re fairly delicious too – crunchy, with a nutty aftertaste, the bugs have a texture similar to crispy whitebait.

(inset) Cricket powder can be added into smoothies and shakes or used in cooking and baking

Ento’s crickets are bred on a 650-square-metre (7,000 square foot) pilot farm in Ara Damansara, Selangor. There, they are kept in sanitised pens on a diet of commercial chicken feed. It takes eight weeks for the crickets to mature, after which they are frozen and put into a state of deep sleep. This is, according to Wu, a painless and humane method to kill the crickets before they are slow roasted in an industrial oven.

The roasting process kills bacteria and preserves the insects’ nutritional value. Samples of the product are sent to a lab for testing, before they are packaged and ready for the market.

business, especially from the ground up,” he says.

In the early days, Wu and his small team did not have a proper office, and had to rotate through co-working spaces around Kuala Lumpur. To get the word out on Ento’s products, they relied on booths at artisan markets, bazaars and pop-up stores at festivals such as RIUH. Being a pioneer in the country meant that there was a huge potential

As with any new business, Wu has had his fair share of challenges.

“My family’s background is in business, so I’ve been exposed to the hustle and uncertainties – all the late calls and emergency meetings. But I started from scratch, and had to learn a lot on the job. There is no university or work experience that can prepare you for running your own

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Currently, 80 percent of Ento’s customers are local. “We’re targeting consumers who are looking for healthier, more sustainably sourced protein,” says Wu. In a month, they sell anywhere from 500 to 1,500 packets. The long term goal is to export and cater to business-to-business markets, supplying to manufacturers in Europe or the U.S. that require a good, reliable and cheap source of insect-based protein.

Wu hopes that consumer perceptions toward consuming insects will change, as with lobsters and sushi

market and no competition, but there were also no references for Wu to base his business upon.

“How do you start an insect farm from scratch? I had to think about things like where to set up the farm, or where to find the expertise for it,” he points out. As there were no insect farm managers in Malaysia, he looked for the next best thing, drawing talent from the agriculture and livestock sectors.

While Ento is still in its research and development phase (hence the term ‘pilot farm’), Wu is confident about growing the business. The start-up has already attracted massive interest, appearing in various national and regional press outlets. Media exposure has helped open up the company to potential investors.

“We’ve been fundraising over the past few months, and we’re ready to expand. We’re also more confident about going to distributors and retailers,” he says.

“It’s all about being pragmatic with what we have, and being creative in finding solutions to problems. That’s how you build a business from an idea, to being on the market,” says Wu.

Plans are in the works for different types of products, such as granola protein bites made with cricket powder.

Eventually, Wu says he would like to create items such as potato chips powered by cricket powder, and even work with chefs to use them in pastas and burgers.

Another challenge has been educating customers on the benefits of eating insects, and changing their perceptions of food in general. He cites an example of lobsters, which were considered “cockroaches of the ocean” just a few hundred years ago – fit only for the poor and prisoners. Today, it is a prized delicacy and one that denotes class and luxury.

“When you think about the 1970s in the United States, no one would think about eating raw fish, until the California Roll was invented and popularised sushi. I believe insects, as food, have the same potential,” he says, adding that while there was a cultural resistance to it, creating products that would appeal to customers such as protein bars and cricket powder would help make it more acceptable in the mass market.

Ento’s products are available on ento.my, and on Shopee and Lazada.

“We aim to introduce this practice of eating insects to the mass market.

Partnering with restaurants is a great way to get exposure,” he says, adding that they are also looking into farming other species of insects in the future.

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F i r s t D r i ve s Text Richard Augustin / Photos courtesy of MINI Malaysia, and respective local distributors

A Little Bit

Country THE MINI COUNTRYMAN REMAINS THE KING OF THE HILL IN THE PREMIUM COMPACT SPORTS ACTIVITY VEHICLE SEGMENT.

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he MINI Countryman is about a decade old, having been introduced in 2010. At the time, many drivers dismissed it as a MINI with larger wheels. However, with its rugged styling and ALL4 all-wheel-drive powertrain, the subcompact crossover SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) blazed a path in a market with few competitors.

Much of that is due to the brand itself. MINI, after all, is in a class of its own. It has been that way since the first original MINI rolled off the assembly lines in 1961. When BMW relaunched the brand in 2001, it continued that success story, making the MINI one of the most appealing lifestyle vehicles around.

be expanded to 1275 litres. It is also equipped to handle a variety of journeys – both on and off the beaten path – thanks to its TwinPower Turbo petrol engine and electric motor powertrain.

Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the powerplant delivers 224hp and 385Nm of torque, allowing the vehicle to go from standstill to 100 kilometres per hour in under seven seconds. It also achieves an impressive fuel consumption of 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres, with an all-electric driving range of 42 kilometres.

Nearly twenty years and numerous editions, variants and models later, the marque remains as popular as ever. This brings us to one of the latest models in the family, the MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid Wired – the brand’s first plug-in hybrid model.

All For Adventure

With its large, rugged and handsome design, the MINI Countryman looks the part of an all-round crossover. It’s got space for five, plus ample cargo room in the rear, which can

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The MINI Countryman boasts sleek upholstery as well as cool interior trims

Wired Up

The Wired edition of the MINI Countryman comes with a number of features that enhances the look and appeal of the model. In addition to the ALL4 Design, the New MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid with the Wired Package comes with 19-inch Edged Spoke rims with run flat tyres, along with bonnet stripes, contrasting roof colours in black or white, as well as a hexagonal grille.

Inside, the new plug-in hybrid variant is decked out in Leather Cross Punch Carbon Black upholstery on electric seats with memory function.

The interior offering is completed with MINI Yours Illuminated interior trims and matching steering wheel.

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F i r s t D r i ve s

Plugged In

The MINI Countryman comes with a 12-speaker sound system as well as convenient features such as Park Assist

The MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid Wired features a plethora of innovative advancements including the new generation MINI Connected with built-in 4G SIM technology. This allows owners to tap into a number of connected and personalised services ranging from TeleServices, MINI Online, MINI Concierge Service, the wireless Apple CarPlay, Remote Services as well as eDrive Services.

The centrepiece of the dashboard is a new high resolution 8.8-inch Touch Screen Display in the MINI Centre Instrument, which puts a wealth of navigation information at

A WORLD OF MINIS The extended family:

MINI 3 DOOR

MINI 5 DOOR

The original style icon embodies the high speed, thrilling low centre-of-gravity handling and exhilarating go-kart feeling that is synonymous with the brand.

Packed with a 2.0L 4-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo engine, the MINI 3 Door sets the standard for speed, response and fun in one stylish package.

Mixing hallmark MINI attitude with more doors, head room and leg room, this model comes with added space and room without sacrificing the agile handling the brand is known for. Power ratio remains the same with 192hp and 280Nm of torque on tap.

MINI CONVERTIBLE

Stylish and functional, the MINI Clubman merges everyday practicality with sporty appeal. Spacious and roomy, the model’s key feature is its distinctive split doors at the rear, equipped with Comfort Access System and Easy Opener function, which open automatically when you move your feet under the boot and back again.

Built for pure open-road enjoyment, the drop top MINI delivers characteristic agility and clever functionality with no compromise on performance. The epitome of stylish open-top driving excitement, this MINI’s soft top opens electrically within 18 seconds even with the car moving at up to 30 kilometres per hour.

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the driver’s fingertips. Other key aspects of the model include a Head-Up Display, Harman Kardon 12-speaker sound system and convenient features that range from Park Assist, Front and Rear PDC, Auto Tailgate, Rear View Camera, Electronic Parking Brake and the MINI Picnic Bench – a soft two-seater bench cleverly designed with a fender dirt protection flap.

MINI CLUBMAN

A Truly Mighty MINI

Like its siblings, the MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid stands in a class of its own. With its good looks, fun-to-drive qualities and impressive features, the model presents an air of exclusivity that no brand to-date has managed to replicate. Yes, it is a lifestyle vehicle and for its asking price of RM250,888 – with an additional RM18,000 for the Wired Package – there are many more sensible SUVs and SAVs in the market to choose from. But why drive something practical when you can drive a MINI?

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New Rides Last Of The Beetles

It’s the end of the road for the Volkswagen Beetle, with the last batch of cars officially rolling off the assembly lines this year.

To mark the occasion, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has unveiled an exclusive Collector’s Edition Beetle.

A perfect homage to the beloved Love Bug, the model features a 1.2-litre turbo engine that produces 105PS with 175Nm of torque. The limited edition model – only 75 units will be made available – comes in Blue Silk, Pure White, Habanero Orange and Tornado Red. The Collector’s Edition also comes decked out with a list of accessories worth up to RM12,000, including VW Tint and an emblem marking its production run.

Luxury Off-Roader

The VW Collector’s Edition Beetle is priced at RM164,390 (insurance and registration not included).

Trust BMW to change the game when it comes to luxury SUVs. The German automaker has lifted the covers off its first-ever X7, an all-new luxury-class BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) that blends lavish presence, exclusivity and spaciousness with the versatile and agile driving properties fans would expect from a vehicle in its class.

The luxury SAV arrives in the BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence variant. Powering the luxury off-roader is a six-cylinder in-line petrol engine with a maximum power of 340hp, and a peak torque of 450Nm. Despite its size, the X7 is still mightily spirited on its feet with a 0-100 kilometres per hour clocked at just over six seconds. It is remarkably frugal too with a combined fuel consumption of 9.5L/100 kilometres.

The first-ever BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence retails at RM888,800 (on the road without insurance).

All-New 3

The fourth-generation Mazda 3 is arguably one of this year’s most anticipated releases. Three model variants are available, two of which are equipped with a 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G petrol engine with 162hp and 213Nm of torque. The base model features a 1.5-litre SkyActiv-G mill producing 118hp and 153Nm of torque. The main takeaway of the new model – available as a liftback as well as a sedan – is its cutting edge design, which is now

sharper and sportier compared to its predecessors. Inside, the updated Mazda 3 boasts features such as an 8.8-inch infotainment system with Mazda Connect as well as a head-up display. Standard safety features include seven airbags, anti-lock braking system, emergency braking assist, hill launch assist, and dynamic stability control.

The new Mazda 3 is priced from RM139,770 to RM160,059 (onthe-road without insurance).

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Passion For

Cooking NO COMPROMISE ON INGREDIENT QUALITY FOR THIS MAMAK-STYLE MEE GORENG.

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Street Chef Text Noel Foo / Photos Raymond Ooi

His grandfather was a proprietor of several businesses at different points in time, including a restaurant, selling magazines, stationery, and even textiles. Despite the family owning a restaurant, Saleem says that his skills were largely self-taught.

“My grandfather did not teach me how to cook. In fact, he did not even want my cousins and I to end up in that line at all. He wanted us to focus on our studies so that we could find better careers to make a living,” says Saleem.

Saleem attributes his early cooking skills to his astute observational skills and natural interest in cooking. After observing how the cooks worked at the restaurant, and because he was often home alone as a teenager, he would spend time in the kitchen himself, trying out what he had learnt and surprising himself with the success he found.

Saleem has been cooking and selling mamak food for four decades

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aleem’s humble little roadside stall may not be the most well-known one with the weekday lunch crowd in Lucky Garden, Bangsar, but his fare has certainly proved their worth among his loyal customers. Hailing from Penang, 65-year old Navvirusaleem Ibrahim has been cooking and selling mamak (Indian-Muslim) food at his stall for four decades. His stubborn refusal to compromise on the quality of ingredients used in his cooking makes his mamak-style mee goreng (fried noodles) one of his most sought-after dishes.

“One must have an interest to begin with. I often listened to people talking about recipes, so whenever I had the time to try it out, I’d apply what I learnt from them in the kitchen,” he explains.

Not much about Saleem’s stall stands out to distinguish it from the other roadside zinc-roofed stalls along Lorong Ara Kiri 3. In fact, it is one of his rivals – a popular fish head curry stall just around the corner – that attracts the most attention, with the queue of customers spilling out onto the street even as late as 3 pm. To find Saleem’s stall, look closely for the partially rolled-down bamboo blinds with his nickname ‘Salim’ spraypainted across it in blue. To ease the confusion of first-time visitors regarding the conflicting sign names, the stall’s name is officially registered with the authorities as ‘Navvir Caterers Beryani Specialist’, whose location is also recorded in Google Maps and Waze.

Humble Beginnings

As a teenager, Saleem attended school in Penang and later Sungai Petani, Kedah, where he lived with his grandparents.

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Street Chef

Out of all his grandfather’s business ventures, the restaurant was the one that endured the longest, and the family eventually recognised that the young Saleem’s cooking was good enough to allow him to cook at the restaurant for a while.

As Saleem got older, he left to dabble in other businesses, including selling textiles, sundries and gas canisters. By 1972, he had moved to Kuala Lumpur where his uncle was living and running a stall selling drinks. After a number of career shifts, Saleem made the decision to occupy the stall beside his uncle’s in Lucky Garden, and complement it by selling food.

“At the time, nobody was selling mee goreng in the area, so I started making it along with mee rebus and pasembur,” says Saleem.

Business picked up well. In the early days, many labourers who worked on projects for Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) were based in the area, and they

I believe that I should always cook quality dishes for my customers because it is my job to make sure that they are satisfied. When you use would frequent his stall for high quality ingredients, lunch. Although TNB has since your food will definitely taste established more branches in better. I am confident that other townships and reassigned customers who have tried its contract workers to other and enjoyed my food will areas, Saleem says his food is always come back still known to his regular customers, for more. as well as long-time residents of Lucky Garden.

Quality & Quantity

There is nothing extraordinary about the appearance of Saleem’s mee goreng.

The wok-fried dish comprises of a mixture of yellow wheat noodles, crunchy prawn fritters, fried beancurd, choy sum, onions, bean sprouts and slices of red chilli, sprinkled with a crunchy garnish and topped with a lime wedge for that extra flavour. The hot and spicy dish makes for a satisfying and hearty meal, and customers get an above-average portion for just RM5.

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To Saleem, the most important component that makes or breaks a dish of mee goreng is the sambal (chilli paste) that must be prepared beforehand. While many have told him that using cili boh paste and monosodium glutamate seasoning is good enough to replicate the flavour, he disagrees.

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“Yes, the mixture does give you the flavour, but it only works when the dish is still hot. Once it cools down, the taste is no longer the same. For my mee goreng, I personally prepare my stock of sambal for up to a week and store it

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in the freezer. I make sure to use a good brand of chilli sauce to maintain the quality,� he says.

Food quality means everything to Saleem, so he refuses to compromise, even if using cheaper ingredients will bring him higher profits. In addition to serving his dishes in large portions, he also refuses to raise his prices higher than necessary. “In the early days, the labourers that came to my stall always had large appetites, so I just got used to cooking everything in large portions.

I try to maintain my prices because I understand that many of my customers are frustrated with having to deal with the rising cost of living,� says Saleem.

ingredients, your food will definitely taste better. I am confident that customers who have tried and enjoyed my food will always come back for more,� he adds.

Navvir Caterers Beryani Specialist Lorong Ara Kiri 3, Lucky Garden, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur (opposite AA Pharmacy) Opens from 5 am to 3.30 pm. Closed on Sundays.

“I believe that I should always cook quality dishes for my customers because it is my job to make sure that they are Legoland half page horizontal-oct.pdf 1 13/09/2019 satisfied.

When you use high quality

Besides mee goreng, Saleem’s mee rebus and pasembur are also popular, both carrying distinctly Penang flavours.

On Wednesdays and Fridays, customers may also enjoy his special biryani rice with chicken, fish or mutton for RM10.

Morning customers may also enjoy Indian breakfast options such as idli and poori.

Contact: 3:31 PM8673 012-399

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Open Journal Text Carolyn Hong / Photos courtesy of respective interviewees

Going

Wild

EXPLORE THE GREENER SIDE OF KUALA LUMPUR.

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uala Lumpur’s wild side may be hidden from view but it’s worth seeking out its lush areas. Walking or cycling amidst greenery lifts the soul, and best of all, these tranquil areas are within easy reach of the city’s dazzling lights.

Night Walk, Bukit Kiara

(from top) A four-lined tree frog; Wong pointing out a lizard to participants on his tour

By day, the Bukit Kiara park teems with walkers and cyclists.

By night, its wildlife come out to stalk and hunt.

Located in the swish Taman Tun Dr Ismail neighbourhood, Bukit Kiara is home to a surprisingly large variety of wildlife such as snakes, frogs, lizards, tortoises, birds, insects, and small mammals like monkeys and the occasional wild boar and porcupine.

“Sometimes, we can spot sleeping monkeys, and hear their snores too!” says Wong, who has been exploring the area for four years.

Bukit Kiara park was once a rubber plantation but is slowly reverting to a lowland rainforest after it became a park 40 years ago. Wong said its abundance of wildlife puts paid to the belief that fragmented forests have no ecological value.

Steven Wong, a nature guide with a passion for reptiles and amphibians, has spotted 16 species of frogs and toads, 24 types of snakes, 13 species of lizards and four turtle types there.

Many of these can be seen on his night tours into Bukit Kiara.

“These small patches are still refuge areas for species that we don’t often think about,” he says.

It is particularly rich with snakes.

Wong has spotted two venomous species – the striped coral snake and Sumatran spitting cobra. But fear not, as snakes tend to flee from humans, and it’s actually hard to get close to one.

So, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for a wild night out. Don’t forget the headlight.

The Bukit Kiara night walk runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 8 pm to 10.30 pm. Bookings can be made through facebook.com/mynatureinspired.

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Hindu temple to replace the existing ones on site.

A popular spot for walkers, from toddlers to the elderly, the trails are well maintained with plenty of signs to explain the jungle flora. The current trail takes about 45 minutes to walk, with numbered signposts to show the way as well as shortcuts to the exit.

Taman Tugu Jungle Park

If ever there was an Instagramworthy jungle, it would be the Taman Tugu urban forest park which has attracted over 50,000 visitors since it opened in September 2018. Offering forest walks along gentle trails, the park is outfitted with photogenic amenities such as benches, swings and an observation tower tucked among the towering trees, and picturesque remnants of the colonial homes which once stood there.

Regular activities are also held in the park, from zumba to yoga, and environmental awareness programmes such as talks, guided walks and handson gardening workshops.

The park is built on a 26-hectare site which previously housed homes for the British colonial and local officers, before being left disused for years. The conservation work took care to preserve some 1,000 trees growing there, some of which are over 100 years old. Another 4,000 indigenous trees are being planted, and eventually, it is hoped that the site will have a density of trees similar to a rainforest.

(from top left) The Taman Tugu urban forest park features amenities and beautiful nature, making it an Instagramworthy spot.

Activities such as yoga and zumba are also held there

About 16 hectares are now opened, with four kilometres of forest trails to explore. In a year’s time, several more kilometres of trails will be ready, along with an events space, outdoor activity ground, as well as a surau (Muslim prayer hall) and a

This jungle in the city is a wonderful way to spend some time cocooned in nature. Once you’re on the trails, surrounded by towering trees and foliage, it’s easy to forget that the skyscrapers are not far away.

Taman Tugu is located near the Tugu Negara Monument, close to Taman Botani Perdana. It is open from 7 am to 6.30 pm daily, and entrance is free. tamantuguproject.com.my

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Open Journal

Kampus Ride With Elena

Being Malaysia’s oldest university, Universiti Malaya is blessed with a wide expanse of lush grounds with undulating paths, shady trees and by-gone architecture. The bicycle is the best way to explore its grounds with its relatively low vehicle traffic.

Elena Shim Mei Yun, an enthusiastic cyclist, leads a unique tour which brings cyclists into the rambling grounds to explore its iconic 1960s architecture, such as the Dewan Tunku Canselor, and to learn about environmental conservation.

(From top) Explore the vast grounds of Universiti Malaya, where one will find a rich collection of plants and greenery (inset) Shim has led bike tours since 2016

From here, cyclists move on to the university’s water monitoring station, where they will learn how to collect river water samples and test them for pollutants and aquatic life. It’s a hands-on way to learn about the ecology of rivers. The last stop is the zero waste centre, where the university showcases the best practices in waste management.

“This tour is run in collaboration with Universiti Malaya, with the highlight being its conservation work,” she says.

It is a unique tour filled with activity, greenery, and knowledge.

The first stop will be the Rimba Ilmu Botanical Garden, a 32-hectare forest park where participants will hop off their bikes for a guided walk. Built in 1974, Rimba Ilmu (which means ‘forest of knowledge’ in the Malay language) is one of the most important biological conservatories in Malaysia. It has a rich living collection of plants from tropical Asia, Pacific Islands, Australia, South America, Africa and Madagascar.

Shim has been running bike tours in and around Kuala Lumpur since 2016, ironically after a bicycle accident. She was driven to find ways to stay safe on the bicycle, and to lobby the government to build better cycling amenities. She realised the potential in bike tourism after mapping out cycling routes around the city.

Kampus Ride takes place on Saturday or Sunday, and takes about 3.5 hours to complete. The minimum participation is five persons. For bookings, visit bikewithelena.com.

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Open Journal

Central Park, Desa Park City

The five-hectare Central Park in the Desa Park City township welcomes both human visitors and four-legged furry ones. As one of the few spots in the city which makes space for pets, it has become particularly popular with dog owners who regularly bring their furkids there for a romp in the sun.

While dogs rule the roost, people have also come along with their pet cats and birds, making the park a lively menagerie on the weekends. Dogs have to be on a leash for safety reasons, and owners need to clean up after their pets. Waste disposal bag dispensers and rubbish bins are located around the park.

After a romp around the park, which also has a lake and jogging tracks, animal visitors are welcome to join their humans for a meal at the chic cafĂŠs around the park, followed by a spot of retail therapy at the shops. While most of these outlets are pet-friendly, do ask about their policy and how to manage your pet while dining or shopping.

Pets are welcomed as much as humans at Central Park

The Central Park is particularly busy on weekend mornings and evenings, especially when the monthly Pet Bazaar is being held at the lakefront. For those who come without pets, do visit the social organisations which set up stall with rescue animals for adoption.

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Central Park is located at 5, Persiaran Residen, Desa Park City, Kuala Lumpur, or simply look for The Waterfront at Desa Park City. It is open from 6 am to 11 pm daily to the public, and access is free.

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Health & Fitness Illustration Nurfarahin Kamarudin

Boba

Craze FITNESS GURU KEVIN ZAHRI SPILLS THE TEA ON THE BUBBLE MILK TEA TREND.

I

t’s sweet, it’s milky and it’s oh-so-delicious. Bubble tea has exploded in popularity in recent years, with dozens of new brands and outlets opening across Malaysia. It has also been all over the news lately – and not always for the right reasons. Experts have weighed in on how its high sugar content could lead to debilitating health conditions such as obesity and diabetes, especially if consumed in the long run. However, that doesn’t seem to have deterred fans from braving the queues for their favourite beverages. In this article, we take a look at what the drink is, and if it’s really as bad as it’s made out to be.

So... What Is Bubble Tea?

First sold in Taiwan in the 1980s, bubble tea is a teabased drink that usually contains milk and sugar, alongside different flavourings and toppings, or “pearls”. These can be chewy tapioca balls (boba), fruit jelly, grass jelly, agar jelly and pudding. Ever since the bubble tea craze hit Malaysian shores, there’ve been many consumer awareness posts circulating on social media, leading people to ask me if it’s okay to drink bubble tea. Let’s take a look at some points.

CALORIE

What Does Research Say?

Studies in the West have reported that traces of carcinogenic substances which can lead to cancer were found in tapioca pearls. These reports were “counter studied” and proven “false” by the Taiwanese government, which stated that the quantity of these compounds are too small to cause significant health problems.

With research companies and organisations in different countries constantly coming up with new findings and reports, it is difficult to say conclusively. At the end of the day, we all know that bubble tea isn’t exactly a “healthy” drink, but that doesn’t mean that you have to cut it out completely from your life.

High In Calories

It can’t be denied that bubble tea drinks are high in calories, and can contain anywhere from 200 to 500 calories per 400 ml – the size of a standard cup. The culprit? Condensed milk aside, it’s the tapioca pearls, which are made from cassava starch, sweet potato and brown sugar. These pearls are far up on the list of foods with a high glycemic index (GI) – what we call bad carbs – and can cause your blood sugar and insulin levels to spike. Generally, processed and starchy foods, as well as high sugar drinks, are high in GI.

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HEALTHY DIET CALANDER

Finding The Right Balance

C h e at D

Balance is essential to a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. Many people find it difficult to stick to a diet plan because they tend to go for diet trends that border on the extreme. For example, it’s common to go cold turkey and refrain from eating your favourite foods when you’re starting a new diet, which would just increase the cravings you’ll have. When you are unable to hold them off, you end up bingeing, then feel guilty about it. This is simply not a sustainable way to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle. My advice is to go on a “suka hati kau” (as you like) diet. Let it be a balance: don’t deprive yourself, but don’t go overboard either. Combine that with an active lifestyle, and you’ll eventually reap the benefits.

Watch Your Overall Intake

C h e at D

a y!

a y!

at Che

Day

!

Make Informed Choices

On any given day, the average person needs roughly 2,000 calories. If a 400-calorie bubble tea adds a little ‘black’ to your diet, just be sure to add a little ‘white’ to the remaining 1,600 calories. If you’ve had your bubble tea quota for the week or month, focus on improving your other meals to make up for it. In conclusion, unless you have an underlying health condition that prohibits the consumption of high GI food or drinks, go ahead and sip on that cup of bubble tea – just not too often.

It’s easy to lay the blame on bubble tea as the root of all evil. However, keep in mind that consuming a single beverage once in a while will not lead to diabetes or weight gain.

Remember that there are plenty of other food and drinks out there which are loaded with sugar and calories too such as soda, cakes and rich desserts. To give you an estimate, one gramme of sugar equals to roughly four calories. Therefore, if you feel that you deserve a cup of bubble tea every now and then, and it makes you happy, go ahead.

Inspiration, Not Blind Obedience

Social media can be helpful in many ways when it comes to sharing information. However, most fitness posts and advice tend to focus on promoting healthy choices only, without taking into account other factors. It is not a bad thing, but focusing on “white” i.e. good choices tends to leave many people feeling pressured to follow what the fitness gurus or health experts say or do. It is my belief that while one may look to these accounts and posts for inspiration and advice, always remember that the diets and workout regimes of Instagram fitness models or celebrities are vastly different from those of a regular person. A healthy diet is not about making black (bad) or white (good) choices. Both that and weight management (and life in general) consists of a wide spectrum of choices and decisions.

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About Cikgu Fitness Malaysia

Kevin Zahri is an award-winning U.S.certified personal trainer and nutritionist with over 15 years of experience.

He is also the founder of Malaysia’s largest weight loss movement called Jom Kurus.

Over the years, he has published several books and e-books, written for fitness and lifestyle magazines, and hosted and appeared on TV shows as well as magazines. Kevin is an avid corporate wellness speaker, web entrepreneur and a member of MENSA, the high IQ society. kevinzahri.com

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Pack Up : For Him

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Classic Appeal

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Framing the singular vision of Giorgio Armani, this runway style design profiles the essential eclecticism of the season.

Just perfect for the modern and elegant gentleman.

RRP: USD305 (RM1,275) armani.com/my

Too Cool

Contemporary angles add a quirky edge to this fine, wideeyed optical frame from Ray-Ban. With its six-sided shape, the polished acetate frame is sure to steal the attention of whoever looks your way.

RRP: RM499 ray-ban.com/malaysia

Cool Eyewear LOOKING TO DRESS UP YOUR FACE? OPT FOR THE RIGHT OPTICAL FRAME OR SHADES. THEY COME IN ALL SHAPES, SIZES AND COLOURS.

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Active & Trendy

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The Oakley Scavenger is a lifestyle optical frame loaded with performance features. With a standout double bridge architecture, metal accent and comfortable round lens shape, it is designed to keep up with the adventures of the day.

RRP: USD173 (RM723) oakley.com

Dazzling Choice

With Versace’s Grecamania pilot shades, you can shine brighter than the sun. The gold tone frame is embellished with the fashion house’s “medusa medallion” on the bridge and “Greek key” motif on the temples.

RRP: USD245 (RM1,024) versace.com

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Pack Up : For Her *Some RRPs have been converted into Malaysian Ringgit and are correct at the time of conversion.

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Groovy, Baby

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Prada has given the iconic cat-eye sunglasses a modern update. The refreshed design is simply stunning, with its geometric lines and absolutely exaggerated profile. The acetate frame adds a kitschy chic feel to the whole look.

RRP: RM1,479 prada.com

Your Best Angle

Want to truly stand out among the crowds? Then this pair of triangular shades from Burberry is just for you. The gold-plated frame with hand-applied enamel details just screams cool and trendy.

RRP: RM1,120 my.burberry.com

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Pretty Feminine

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Look To The Future

Emporio Armani’s new design is certainly futuristic. It sports an intriguing high wavy bridge, as well as irregular oversized lenses with a strong colour contrast and transparent nylon detail at the top.

RRP: RM819 armani.com/my

A playful, fresh silhouette characterises this ultralight and stunning model from Coach. It features the brand’s iconic curved temple, and comes in the shiny tones of gunmetal, light or rose gold, plus gradient coloured lenses.

RRP: RM839 malaysia.coach.com

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Reads : Sci - Fi/Fantasy

The Testaments

by Margaret Atwood A novel 34 years in the making, Margaret Atwood’s sequel to her acclaimed The Handmaid’s Tale continues the story of Offred. Testaments picks up 15 years after our heroine disappears into the unknown and is told from the perspective of three female narrators from the Gilead. In writing this novel, not only does Atwood provide closure to fans and readers of the original book, but also brings a note of finality to the story which startlingly foreshadowed the growing militancy in the gender wars that we experience today. If The Handmaid’s Tale was a fable of the perils of runaway misogyny, then The Testaments might offer an inkling of hope in this bleak and dismal dystopia. Testaments was longlisted for the Booker Prize in 2019 as at the time of this writing.

RRP: RM119.95

Exhalation

by Ted Chiang Ted Chiang is the acclaimed author of Stories of Your Life and Others, which became the basis for the Academy Award-nominated film Arrival. Exhalation, his new collection of short fiction, features nine radically original and provocative ideas which nevertheless embed in them some of humanity’s age-old questions: What is free will?

Are second chances possible? Should science and discovery be unfettered? The urgency and poise of Chiang’s writing again comes to the forefront in this collection of new science imaginings, making for revelations that are at once profound, sympathetic and all-too human. This is Chiang at his best, who on this evidence will remain a significant force in science fiction writing going forward.

RRP: RM79.90

Penguin Galaxy Fantasy / Sci-Fi Classics Collection

This beautiful hardcover collection of six iconic fantasy and science fiction novels is a must have for the library of anyone interested in the rich roots and heritage of modern fantasy and sci-fi. The series is introduced by the inimitable Neil Gaiman, who provides historical and personal context to the six titles which make up the series.

There’s Arthur C. Clarke’s 2001: A Space Odyssey, William Gibson’s Neuromancer, Robert Heinlein’s Stranger in a Strange Land, Frank Herbert’s Dune, as well as Ursula K. LeGuin’s The Left Hand of Darkness, and TH White’s The Once and Future King. From medieval fantasy to hardcore technopunk, these stories have coloured the imaginations of scientists and readers everywhere and will remain the giants upon which future writers and dreamers will stand.

RRP: RM750

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THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERS Hardcover Fiction & Non-fiction *based on the week of 8 September 2019

Creatures Of Near Kingdoms

by Zedeck Siew, illustrated

by Sharon Chin Malaysian writer Zedeck Siew presents an utterly delightful bestiary of imaginary plants and animals. At times full of whimsy and at others of nightmarish quality, the collection of stories imagines the flora and fauna in and around Malaysia, from worms that live in your digital devices to ants and crows that explode. These so-called creatures illuminate so much of what we are and where we came from. Siew’s wonderfully vivid prose is complemented by artist Sharon Chin’s stunning lino prints and pattern designs. Exotic and yet imaginably native to Southeast Asia, Creatures is a perfect example of how the region can meld its rich cultural and natural heritage together with sheer imagination to create a vital, lush and yet geography-specific fantasy canon.

RRP: RM20

WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING

OLD BONES

by Delia Owens

by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child

THE INN

ONE GOOD DEED

by James Patterson and Candice Fox

THE NICKEL BOYS

by David Baldacci

EDUCATED

by Colson Whitehead

by Tara Westover

BECOMING

HOW TO BE AN ANTIRACIST

Battle Royale

by Koushun Takami Before there was Hunger Games or The Maze Runner, there was Koushun Takami’s Battle Royale. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the original publication of the book, which became a best-seller in Japan. This was followed by its cinematic adaptation by the same name, which also became an instant cult classic. It is based on an irresistible premise — where a class of junior high school students are taken to a deserted island, armed and forced to engage in mortal combat until only one survives. Battle Royale has been criticised for the sheer amount of violence contained within its pages and also more glowingly as a Lord of the Flies for the 21st century. This translation by Nathan Collins captures all the drama and action from the original Japanese cult classic.

RRP: RM79.90

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by Michelle Obama

THE PIONEERS

by David McCullough

by Ibram X. Kendi

THANK YOU FOR MY SERVICE

by Mat Best with Ross Patterson & Nils Parker

Snap a photo of the front cover of this month’s Fireflyz and get a 5% discount at Lit Books store.

Address: P-01-11 Tropicana Avenue, 12, Persiaran Tropicana, Tropicana Golf & Country Resort, 47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia TEL: 03-7886 6988

17/09/2019 4:55 PM

A t T h e M ov i e s

The Addams Family

Starring: Oscar Isaac, Charlize Theron, Chloe Grace Moretz, Finn Wolfhard, Nick Kroll, Snoop Dogg, Bette Midler, Allison Janney Director: Conrad Vernon and Greg Tiernan Release date: 11 October 2019 The first family of Halloween, the Addams Family, is back on the big screen in the first animated comedy about the kookiest family on the block. Funny, outlandish, and completely iconic, the Addams Family redefines what it means to be a good neighbour. This time around, Gomez, Morticia, Wednesday, Pugsley and Uncle Fester must square off against a greedy, arrogant and sly reality television show host Margaux Needler (Janney), whilst preparing for their extended family to arrive for a major celebration.

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Playing at the cinemas *Information is correct at the time of printing

Joker

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Bill Camp, Frances Conroy, Brett Cullen, Glenn Fleshler, Douglas Hodge, Marc Maron Director: Todd Philips Release date: 4 October 2019

WARNER BROS. PICTURES

Set in the 1980s, failed comedian Arthur Fleck (Phoenix) is shunned and disregarded by society. The seeds of his madness and obsession are apparent when he stalks his love interest Sophie (Beetz), breaking into her apartment and losing it when he finds out she has a boyfriend. While wandering the streets of Gotham City dressed as a clown, Fleck encounters violent thugs. It is there that he begins his slow descent into insanity, as he transforms into the criminal mastermind known as the Joker.

Gemini Man

Starring: Will Smith, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Clive Owen, Benedict Wong, Linda Emond Director: Ang Lee Release date: 11 October 2019

PARAMOUNT PICTURES

Gemini Man is an innovative action-thriller starring Will Smith as Henry Brogan, an elite assassin who is suddenly targeted and pursued by a mysterious young operative that can seemingly predict his every move. To his horror, he soon learns that the man who’s trying to kill him is a younger, faster, cloned version of himself, called Junior. Left with no other options, Henry must uncover the truth behind Junior’s creation and save him from going down the same dark path as he did – all while fighting against a corrupt system led by his former boss Clay Varris (Owen), who is determined to ‘retire’ him at all costs.

Maleficent : Mistress of Evil

WALT DISNEY PICTURES

Starring: Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Michelle Pfeiffer, Ed Skrein, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Harris Dickinson, Juno Temple, Sam Riley Director: Joachim Rønning Release date: 18 October 2019

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Set a few years after the events of the first film, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil continues to explore the complex relationship between the horned fairy, Maleficent (Jolie), and Princess Aurora (Fanning), the girl she originally hated but has come to love.

Maleficent has since changed her view of the world and lives peacefully in the Moors. However, things take a turn for the worse when Prince Philip (Dickinson) proposes to Aurora, to which she accepts. With Philip’s mother Queen Ingrith (Pfeiffer) declaring Aurora as her own, Maleficent must form new alliances and face new adversaries to protect the Moors and the magical creatures that reside within.

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News & Happenings

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Firefly Network

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Firefly Fleet & Service Info

Cause For Celebration

A simple ‘thank you’ can go a long way – as outlined by Firefly’s recent Terima Kasih campaign. Aside from showing the airline’s appreciation to its passengers, the campaign served as a timely reminder to all on the importance of keeping alive the Malaysian spirit of good etiquette and warm hospitality. “Saying thank you or terima kasih is a basic human gesture that shows gratitude. It may not matter to you, but it matters to the person you say it to,” says Firefly Vice-President of Marketing and Communications, Izra Izzuddin, adding that this was in line with Firefly’s mission of providing courteous service to all its guests. As a further show of appreciation, the airline offered exciting promotions, including discounts on flights to domestic destinations, as well as half price deals on flight and accommodation packages.

Caring For The Environment

Firefly Airlines is going green by leading simple efforts to protect the environment. The airline is the first full-service airline in Malaysia to separate used beverage cartons onboard. Its fleet of 12 ATR 72-500 planes are also a more environmentally-friendly alternative compared to jets, as they emit less CO2. “Climate change is a huge concern for all of us. It is only right to practise and encourage habits that can lead to more ecologicallyresponsible decisions and lifestyles; to help protect the environment and sustain its natural resources for current and future generations,” says Firefly Chief Executive Officer Philip See. Other green-centric activities held by the airline include a CSR programme in conjunction with World Clean-Up Day 2019, trivia questions to create awareness via Firefly’s social media platforms, as well as onboard giveaways for passengers wearing green to show support for the initiative.

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Net work Map

Banda BandaAceh Aceh

Firefly Sales Offices & Counters

SUBANG

Subang Skypark Terminal Ground Floor, Departure Hall Terminal 3 Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport 47200 Subang, Selangor TEL: +603 7846 3622 OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 5 am to 10 pm

PENANG

Departure Hall, Main Terminal Penang International Airport 11900 Bayan Lepas TEL: +604 630 6665 OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 5:30 am to 10 pm

KELANTAN

JOHOR

Ground Floor, Aero Mall Senai International Airport 81250, Johor Bahru TEL: +607 598 7488 OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 6 am to 10 pm

INDONESIA

KEDAH

International Departure Hall Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport Banda Aceh EMAIL: aceh@fireflyz.com.my OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 8:30 am to 5 pm

Main Terminal, Sultan Abdul Halim Airport 06550 Alor Setar TEL: +604 714 3911 OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 7 am to 8 pm

LANGKAWI

Airline’s Marketing Representative

Selected Airport Ticket Offices

Sultan Mahmud Airport 21300 Kuala Terengganu TEL: +609 667 5377 OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 7 am to 9 pm

PERAK

Floor 3, Room 302, Phuket International Airport Maikhao, Thalang, Phuket 83110 TEL: +66 76 351 477 FAX: +66 76 327 312 EMAIL: phuket@fireflyz.com.my

Level 5, Departure Hall Main Terminal Building Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) 64000 Sepang, Selangor OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 5:30 am to 12 am

PAHANG

SINGAPORE

Sultan Ismail Petra Airport 16100 Kota Bharu TEL: +609 774 1377 OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 5:30 am to 9:30 pm

TERENGGANU

Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport 25150 Kuantan TEL: +609 538 2911 OPERATING HOURS: Sat to Mon, Wed & Thur; 9 am to 6 pm

THAILAND

Langkawi International Airport 07100 Padang Matsirat, Kedah TEL: +604 955 9622 OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 9 am to 8 pm

Sultan Azlan Shah Airport 30350 Ipoh OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 9 am to 5 pm

City Ticketing Office

SUBANG

Lot R-01, 3rd Floor, CITTA Mall No.1, Jalan PJU 1A/48 Ara Damansara 47301 Petaling Jaya Selangor, Malaysia OPERATING HOURS: Mon to Fri: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm; Sat, Sun & public holidays – closed

21, Seletar Aerospace Road 1 #01-03, Singapore 797405 TEL: +65 3158 8279 OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 7 am to 7:30 pm

KLIA

KL SENTRAL

Lot L2.23, Level 2 Nu Sentral Shopping Centre 201, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 10 am to 10 pm (including public holidays); last queue number: 9:30 pm

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Ways you can check in aside from the airport : WEB CHECK IN: At www.fireflyz.com.my.

Print out the boarding pass yourself.

Available for Malaysia domestic and Singapore flights only. For Indonesia and Thailand inbound/outbound flights, check in is through the counter at the airport only.

MOBILE APP CHECK IN: Via Firefly Mobile from your mobile phone. Download the app from Apple App Store and Google Play Store for free.

RAYMOND OOI

KIOSK CHECK IN: Check in and print your boarding pass at these kiosks at the airport.

This service is available for code share passengers as well.

Kuala Lumpur

PULSE OF THE CITY There are lots to see and do within KL’s Golden Triangle, from food and attractions to shopping and leisure. Turn to page 24 for our fun guide.

(Seletar (SeletarAirport) Airport)

Call Centre General Hotline: Malaysia +603 7845 4543 (Daily 8am – 9pm) Singapore +65 3158 8279 (Daily 8am – 9pm)

*Correct at the time of printing. Please visit www.fireflyz.com.my for more information.

(Kuala (KualaLumpur) Lumpur)

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Our Fleet & Service Information

Get acquainted with our service information for a fuss-free travel experience.

On-Time Performance

No-Smoking Policy

Our check-in counters close 30 minutes before departure. Please allow at least 45 minutes for immigration and security clearance. Boarding gates will close 10 minutes prior to departure and late passengers will not be accepted.

Cabin Luggage Handling

ATR 72-500

Manufacturer

Avions de transport régional (ATR) No. of aircraft

12

Height

7.65 m Maximum Fuel Capacity

841 Gallons

Maximum Cruising Speed

Passenger Seating

510 km/h

Length

Maximum range with full passenger load

72 (single class) 27.17 m Wingspan

Smoking, including the use of electronic cigarettes, is prohibited on all flights.

890 nautical miles (1648.28 Km)

27.05 m

Operation Hubs

Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang & Penang International Airport, Penang

Passenger and crew safety onboard our flights is our highest priority.

In compliance with the airline’s policy and in observing Occupational, Safety and Health Regulations, cabin crew are no longer required to stow passengers’ hand luggages into the overhead stowage compartment. This is to minimise occupational hazard and ergonomic risks faced by cabin crew

in the aircraft. Cabin crew on duty will, however, assist passengers travelling with infants, young passengers travelling alone, the elderly, and passengers with reduced mobility.

Passengers who are fit and in good health must carry, stow and secure their own hand luggage on board.

Hand luggage exceeding the 7kg weight limit is required to be checked in before boarding.

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Wheelchair Assistance

Manual self-propelled wheelchairs can be provided for a fee, subject to availability. Please enquire through our Call Centre upon booking.

Electronic Cigarettes

Electronic cigarettes must be carried on one’s person or in carry-on baggage only. Recharging of the device in-flight is not permitted.

Refusal to Carry or Restraint of Passenger Onboard Firefly has the right to refuse to carry passengers that they consider to be a potential risk to the safety of its other passengers and crew. We value courteousness. Any form of threat, verbal abuse or violence towards our staff will not be tolerated.

Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs)

For safety reasons and in line with the Regulatory Guidelines, mobile phones and all PEDs must be switched off once the aircraft door is closed. Whilst cruising, devices placed in flight mode may be used. The devices must again be switched off during the approach for landing until the aircraft is parked at the terminal building. Devices transmitting strong signals must remain switched off throughout the flight, until disembarkation. The Captain may prohibit the use of devices that can interfere with the aircraft’s system.

Lithium Batteries

Lithium metal or lithium ion cells or batteries for portable electronic devices (PEDs), including medical devices must not exceed 2g for lithium metal batteries and 100Wh for lithium ion batteries. All spare batteries, including lithium metal or lithium ion cells or batteries, for PEDs must be carried in passengers’ carry-on baggage only. These batteries must be individually protected to prevent short circuits.

For PEDs containing non-spillable batteries, they must be 12V or less or 100Wh or less. A maximum of two spare batteries may be carried.

These batteries must be individually protected to prevent short circuits.

Fresh & Frozen Seafood

Fresh and frozen seafood are strictly not permitted in check-in baggage. They may be accepted in cabin baggage, subject to the destination’s quarantine regulations. They must be properly packed and meet the cabin baggage weight and size requirements.

A maximum of 2.5 kg of dry ice per passenger is permissible if dry ice is used to carry these items.

We reserve the right to refuse carriage if the items are not properly packed.

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View finder Photo 123rf

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View finder Photo 123RF

Colourful

Display K

olam is an Indian folk art which uses coloured rice flour, dyed rice grains or other materials such as coloured sand, chalk and flower petals to form beautiful images. These can range from simple and complex geometric patterns, to peacocks, flowers and even seasonal greetings. Kolam art is a common sight in Malaysia during the Hindu festival of lights, Diwali (or Deepavali as it is more commonly known in Malaysia), which will be celebrated on 27 October this year. It is typically displayed at the entrance of a home, as it is believed to welcome prosperity and blessings. Traditionally, kolam is made by the womenfolk of the household.

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# FlyFirefly

littlemissha ppyfe

Tag us on Instagram @ fireflyairlines and get your photos published. xavi.pared

es

et

transportationshub

77 likes transportationshub ‘Kecil bukan sebarangan kecil.’ – Malay saying. #FireflyAirlines

yvonnetan

g1313

771 likes et Never thought littlemissha ppyfe nknotes ba t ou a museum ab ve so many and coins will ha rs. #banknegara Instaworthy corne e this place. nawwa.farro I lov one million the tch ca Did you l? ringgit tunne

Riznal

227 likes xavi.pared es After two flights and three boats we have ar rived at Perhentian Island. Than ks to @fireflyairline s for the treat ment and speed.

fjbmobile

5 likes called a 1313 This is yvonnetang ur ney to jo od ch a go sky view! Su nes. rli ith #fireflyai Langkawi w

83 likes Riznal Guess who shared the same flight and sat behind me today. Thank you for all your efforts for Malaysia, Dato. #firefly #datoleechongwei jajaabinx Fuhhh Dato Riznal dengan idola

rahmatdhani rencongdirgantara

35 likes fjbmobile Wall doodles at ButterworthArtWalk - Whimsical splashes of colour, shape and form. #penang #flyfirefly fooevie Wow! My next cuti-cuti Malaysia destination!

355 likes rahmatdhani Mango Juice & samosa for a short hop from SZB to XSP. Nice touch from Firefly! #flyfirefly

50 likes rencongdirgantara Kunang Kunang getting ready to bur n rubber! #firefly

October 2019

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_FF Oct 2019_Instagram.indd 72

17/09/2019 5:06 PM