November 2020
read online at fireflyz.com.my
PHOTO: LOKA MADE
Discover Malaysia’s
Local Charms & Unexpected Allure
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS LOKA MADE - HOMEGROWN LOCALLY INSPIRED ART INSIDE LOOK CORAL REHABILITATION / 12 HOURS CAMERON HIGHLANDS
Contents November 2020
3 Hello From Firefly CEO 4 Travel Trends
24
How tech is changing travel
9 MY List
5 things and facts about Malaysia
Inside Look
Coral rehabilitation in Malaysia
11 Bites
Where to eat
14 Quench
Where to drink
15 Comfort Zone Where to stay
43
Humble Beginnings
Homegrown locally inspired gifts
30 Perspective Noritake and its appeal
35 Tracker
Sacred sites in Malaysia
39 Street Chef Indian-style claypot rice
47 Health & Beauty
New launches
48 Pack Up
Carry-on luggage
50 Firefly News 52 Firefly Checklist 51 Firefly Safety Measures
17
12 Hours
Cameron Highlands
54 Network Map 56 Fleet & Service Info 58 #FlyFirefly
Our Instagram Stars!
Hello From Firefly CEO
Hello Firefly passengers and fellow travellers! Firefly has been in operations since 2007 and we are delighted to be a part of Malaysia’s aviation industry, and enriching your flying journey over the past 13 years. A lot of changes have taken place over the last decade. Aside from our branding and operational upgrade, other changes include the evolution from jet operations to turboprop, the move from Changi Ariport to Seletar Airport, and the development of Firefly’s air travel sectors, which allowed us to connect people from our main hubs of Subang and Penang to the cities on the east coast of Malaysia, as well as to Phuket and Banda Aceh. This year has been an exceptionally challenging one — our personal and work routines have been put to the test. The current situation is proof that we must continue to stay vigilant and apply the safety and health SOPs in every aspect of our life — home, the workplace, and especially in public spaces. Despite the current challenges faced by the aviation industry, Firefly remains steadfast in our commitment to be the airline of choice for both the business community and leisure travellers. To this end, we are excited to re-launch Firefly Holiday, a value-for-money package of flight plus accommodation, with optional add-on(s) for a customised weekend getaway or dream vacation with your family or friends. The booking process is easy — log in to fireflyz.com.my, choose your travel dates and destination, and start planning! At Firefly, our priority is to ensure a seamless flying experience in the ‘new norm’ and to keep everyone — from the passengers to our crew and staff (on ground and on board) — safe. To help you manage your travel, before you even depart, visit our website fireflyz.com.my or Firefly mobile app to keep up to date on the latest travel advisory, and view our videos on aircraft cabin disinfection and what to expect when you fly with us. We also encourage you to check out the tips (for e.g. My Flying Checklist) and information (for e.g. Fly Safely and Confidently with Firefly) available in FLY S.A.F.E. – COVID-19 Travel Info. Stay safe and let’s all do our part to protect each other. #kitajagakita •
Phil Chief Executive Officer, Firefly Airlines
FIREFLY EDITORIAL COMMITTEE CEO, FlyFirefly Sdn Bhd Philip See Marketing & Communications Sheila Ibrahim Koo Kee Wai Saisundary Sundra Kumar Khoo Sian Chun Syaiful Azuan Abdul Fatah Zulhazmi Zulkifli Alvin Boey 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
EDITORIAL Editor Amy Van
Sub-Editor Anita Yee
Senior Writer Eris Choo
Senior Designer Mossy Chew
ADVERTISING & MEDIA SALES Media Sales Director Kaz Lim kaz.lim@spafax.com Sales Manager Vannes Ching vannes.ching@spafax.com OPERATIONS Editorial Account Manager Phoebe Kan
Operations & Production Manager Sandy Fong
SPAFAX Chief Executive Officer Niall McBain Chief Operating Officer/Chief Financial Officer Simon Ogden
Managing Director, Asia Pacific Jean-Marc Thomas
General Manager Agnes Law agnes.law@spafax.com
Fireflyz 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 Fireflyz 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.
T r a ve l T r e n d s
November 2020
4
Text Arista Kwek
Tech Transformation In Travel TRAVELLING WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN WITH THESE CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGIES.
J
ust when we thought that we were living in a world already optimised by digitisation, the COVID-19 pandemic has swiftly shown us just how much technology can further improve our lives. Recently, the setting up of travel bubbles and the budding demand for domestic travel are indicating the travel industry’s slow but steady climb towards
recovery, and it is innovative technological advancements that have greatly aided the travel sector’s progress. Travel companies too, are rapidly utilising new technological developments in novel and creative ways. It’s thus no understatement to say that with these new tech, the travel industry looks set to be changed forevermore post-COVID-19.
T r a ve l T r e n d s
November 2020
5
Booking Platform Collabs Safety Starts With You
Keeping oneself COVID-19free — and demonstrating that you are too — is perhaps the top concern for travellers right now. To that end, CovidPass, an app developed by the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders Mustapha Mokass, Muna AbuSulayman and Peggy Liu, enables users to prove that they have tested negative for COVID-19. The app stores encrypted data from individual blood tests using blockchain technology, and unlike other contact tracing apps, CovidPass will not track users’ movements. This app has the potential to waive quarantine for healthy travellers and facilitate crossborder travel.
Travellers are in for a treat. Some of the largest travel platforms are tying up with each other to provide you a holistic trip booking experience, and at highly competitive rates too. In Indonesia, GrabCation is the ingenious result of Grab’s tie-up with Booking.com where users can easily book hotel stays at discounted prices through their Grab app. Meanwhile, Chinese e-commerce platform JD Group will start offering Trip.com’s travel packages to its 400 million active users in early 2021. Both companies have pledged to integrate visitor traffic and supply chains, which will certainly put them ahead of other competitors in the market and boost domestic travel within China. And Trip.com isn’t stopping there — it’s also looking to partner with selected airlines to provide travellers with a holistic trip booking experience.
Meanwhile, timely innovations like HoMedics’ UV-Clean portable sanitiser bag (RM330) ensure that your belongings are kept 99.9% bacteria free. In just under a minute, UV-C germicidal LEDs thoroughly sanitise any hightouch item — from your keys to your credit card, sunglasses and jewellery. But of course, with phones being the item we interact with the most all day, the brand’s pocket-sized UVClean phone sanitiser (RM248) takes care of just that. BOOK NOW
T r a ve l T r e n d s
November 2020
6
Vicarious Ventures
The world just got a whole lot smaller with VR (virtual reality) tourism. “Armchair adventures”, as it’s called, lets you travel anytime and anywhere without ever leaving your couch. With travel restrictions currently still in place, the technology is especially relevant for travel companies who wish to give potential customers a taste of their proffered experiences. The launch of lightning-fast 5G networks has also boosted consumer appetite for these virtual experiences, which range from guided tours to cities and even to offbeat places like Antarctica. While interactive VR YouTube videos have been on the scene for a while now, the rise of dedicated VR devices such as Google Cardboard and Oculus VR headsets are set to take VR tourism a step further by thoroughly immersing viewers in their selected travel experience. One of the first corporate entities to use VR to promote tourism is Destination British Columbia (it worked with Oculus to promote destinations within the province), while National Geographic too, has VR tours of the brand’s physical guided trips on Oculus’ platform. On a smaller scale, livestream sales have also emerged as a way for travel companies to engage audiences in an interactive and localised manner. These sessions usually showcase stays or travel experiences to pique viewers’ interest, with games to keep the audience engaged and prizes like free stays or travel vouchers. •
MY List
November 2020
Photos Adobe Stock Library, Tourism Malaysia and Unsplash
5
Things & Facts About
Marvellous Malaysia 1
Irreplaceable Heritage
Malaysia has four UNESCO World Heritage sites sites,, including Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak, known for its unique karst formations and lush tropical forest, and Kinabalu Park in Sabah, which is home to the highest mountain in Southeast Asia. The other two sites are Lenggong Valley in Kedah, the oldest place of known human activity in Peninsular Malaysia, and the Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca, namely Malacca and George Town (pictured) in Penang.
2
Shadow Puppets
Wayang kulit is a centuries-old cultural heritage in Malaysia. Performances involve projecting shadows of elaborate paper or leather puppets onto a linen screen, while a dalang (shadow artist) manipulates them from behind. There are four types of wayang kulit in Malaysia, the most popular being wayang kulit Kelantan, which features stories and characters adapted from the Hindu epic, Ramayana.
9
MY List
October 2020
10
3
Praying In Space
On 10 October 2007, orthopaedic surgeon Dato Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor made history as Malaysia’s first astronaut launched to the International Space Station (ISS (ISS)) aboard the Soyuz TMA-11, together with the crew of Expedition 16. As his time in space coincided with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, Malaysia’s Islamic National Fatwa Council created a comprehensive guidebook titled Guidelines for Performing Islamic Rites at the ISS, ISS, which details how to pray in low-gravity environments, how to determine prayer times and more. Sheikh Muszaphar also celebrated Eidal-Fitr onboard with some packed satay and cookies, which he shared with the crew members.
5
Traditional Art
During the Hindu festival of Diwali (also called Deepavali), Malaysian Hindus of Indian heritage draw colourful rice art called kolam outside their homes. The kolam is meant to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and wealth, and drive away evil spirits. Traditionally, kolam feature geometric patterns, but there are also creative variations that depict animals and flowers. •
4
National Anthem
Negaraku (My Country) is the Malaysian national anthem. It was first chosen as a national anthem when Malaya declared independence from the British in 1957. The melody was adapted from the state anthem of Perak, which was itself an adaptation of a popular French tune called La Rosalie Rosalie..
B i t e s : W h e r e To E a t Text & Photos Sean Yoong
Rocco Rocks!
Fast forward seven years from when Malaysian chef Sim Hon Sing and his wife Magarita Santiago first launched Hungry Mario, their home-based private supper club in Kuala Lumpur, and you have Café Rocco, their first cafe, restaurant and catering service venture. Its menu showcases a melange of cuisines; its signature porchetta is a drool-worthy 12-hour sous vide offering while other dishes include a range of pastas, soups, salads and side dishes, and even Hainanese chicken chop. Café Rocco is a BYOB restaurant so bring your own wine or liquor to pair with the food. rocco.cafe
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAFÉ ROCCO (SOME PHOTOS FEATURE PORK)
November 2020
11
B i t e s : W h e r e To E a t
November 2020
12
Steaks Ahoy
A fan of sous vide cooking? Head to The Swimming Cow. Choose your protein — Australian wagyu beef with garlic confit, sea salt flakes, Sarawak pepper and mustard, or the chicken thigh roulade (rolled up with turkey ham and cheddar cheese) served with a refreshing pickle slaw and fragrant truffle fries. Duck fans should consider the pan-seared duck breast served with cauliflower purée and orange reduction while those who prefer fish should try the salmon with truffle mash, sautéed asparagus and garlic lemon butter sauce. facebook.com/TheSwimmingCow
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SWIMMING COW
B i t e s : W h e r e To E a t
November 2020
13
Over The Moon
Mun Coffee was founded by Erin Ayshah, a fan of astronomy whose enthusiasm for all things celestial is evident in the café’s decor — note the crescent moon in its logo and the planet-like pendant lights. Start your meal with Wild Mushroom Soup (the egg yolk in its centre adds a nice touch), then a rib eye steak slathered with chimichurri parsley sauce, or Balinese-inspired sate lilit and a mixed salad. If pasta is more your thing, try the Kerabu Ocean Spiral, an Italian-Asian pasta dish made with seafood, shrimp paste and chillies, or the Fiery Soft Shell Crab Pasta tossed in an authentic Malaccan-Portuguese debal curry (aka devil’s curry) sauce. facebook.com/ muncoffeekl
Q u e n c h : W h e r e To D r i n k
November 2020
14
Slake It With Saké
Small and intimate, the sleek Toji Saké Bar offers tasting experiences of Japan’s muchloved alcoholic beverage, guided by a certified saké sommelier. This is KL’s ideal deep dive for those of us who can’t tell our honjozo from our daiginjo. Take a table next to the image of Mount Fuji as your backdrop or find a seat at the long bar beneath the ambient glow of a paper maché rock suspended from the ceiling. Then take your pick from Toji’s three Saké Flight Sets. Each flight — the saké is served in carafes — is good for two persons. Simple eats are also available. facebook.com/toji.sakebarmy
C o m f o r t Z o n e : W h e r e To S t a y
November 2020
15
JOHOR, MALAYSIA
Resort Vibes
A sister hotel to the popular Amari hotels and resorts in Thailand, Amari Johor Bahru brings its signature hospitality and excellent service to the heart of Johor Bahru. This city hotel with a resort vibe, the hotel features subtle contemporary Thai touches, from the lobby where you can find iconic Thai elephant copper etchings to the teak-panelled walkway that leads to Breeze Spa. Make a booking at the spa to indulge in coffeebased treatments — a subtle nod
to the neighbourhood’s burgeoning coffee scene. Sample traditional Thai delicacies like miang kham (leafwrapped salad bites) at Amaya Food Gallery, or reserve one of the hotel’s six deluxe pool access rooms, which come with their own private terraces. The hotel is a short walk from the big malls like City Square and Komtar, and is located just steps away from cafés and bakeries in JB’s heritage district. amari.com/johor-bahru
C o m f o r t Z o n e : W h e r e To S t a y
November 2020
16
PENANG, MALAYSIA
Contemporary Luxury Meets OldWorld Charm Housed in a century-old colonial building within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town, Penang, Macalister Mansion recently reopened its doors after refurbishment works, unveiling eight customised suites in three new room categories. Aside from the suites, the lobby and reception area, as well as the poolside garden and pool bar, have also been given a facelift. New additions on the property include a function room, personalised services, such as a welcome drink upon arrival, aromatherapy foot bath in the room and evening cocktail sessions, among others. As for dining options, guests will be spoilt for choice by the hotel’s award-winning restaurants and bars. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hotel and its dining outlets have implemented a series of stringent SOPs for the well-being of staff and guests. Also on hand is a Clean Champion on duty, who patrols the premises on a frequent basis to ensure safety measures and procedures are carried out. macalistermansion.com
12 H o u r s
November 2020
Text Hoe I Yune Photos Let’s Go Discovery, Shutterstock and Unsplash Illustration Yion Lim
Highland
Getaway
FROM A MOSS-COVERED FOREST AND VAST TEA PLANTATIONS TO QUAINT STRAWBERRY FARMS AND BRITISHINSPIRED AFTERNOON TEA, CAMERON HIGHLANDS IS A COOL RESPITE IN THE STATE OF PAHANG.
17
12 H o u r s
November 2020
18
T
he most convenient way to cruise through Cameron Highlands, Malaysia’s tea capital would be by car or taxi, but you could also walk or take the shuttle buses that ply between tourist hotspots. It’s ‘sweater weather’ here — a little above 20 degress Celsius during the day and dipping a few notches when sun sets, which is a welcome break from the hot, humid weather that sweeps across the rest of Malaysia.
8.00am
Evergreen, serene and mythical, Mossy Forest on Mount Brinchang is said to be about 200 million years old. Mornings are the best time to visit as mist shrouds the forest, shaping a fantasy fable-like scene. As the forest is located more than 2,030 metres above sea level, the weather gets chilly and damp — a comfortable pair of walking shoes and a jacket are your best bets. Red foxes, jungle cats and Sumatran serows (a goat-antelope native to mountain forests) have been spotted here. Book a guided tour ahead of time. The guides would be most familiar with the exotic flora and fauna, as well as the 14 trails, some of which lead to waterfalls. Let’s Go Discovery and Adventoro offer guided tours of the forest and Boh Tea’s Sungai Palas Tea Centre, which is a short drive down the mountain. The tea centre belongs to Boh Tea Plantation, the largest tea producer in Southeast Asia.
BOH Tea Plantation (Let’s Go Discovery)
Founded in 1929 by British businessman J.A. Russell, Boh Tea Plantation is currently helmed by his granddaughter, Caroline Russell, who was on Forbes 2020 Asia’s power businesswomen list. The tea centre runs a factory tour, during which you can catch a glimpse of how tea leaves are sorted and dried. End the tour on a sweet note — sip on tea and savour cakes, tarts and scones at either J.A.’s Balcony or Tristan’s Terrace. J.A.’s Balcony is a 20-foot al fresco viewing deck, while Tristan’s Terrace is an air-conditioned indoor café that opened in 2019. Both share the same menu and boast panoramic views of the lush green tea plantations.
12 H o u r s
November 2020
19
12pm
As you head for lunch, make a stop to (literally) smell the roses at Robertson Rose Garden, which spans over 10 levels of a terraced hillside. It is home to 100 different species of roses, including the Maid of Hearts, Pink Queen Victoria and Scarlet. Other flowers like carnations and sunflowers can also be found here.
1pm
Roses in full bloom
Just a six-minute drive away is Xin Teh Bak Kut Teh, where you can get your bak kut teh fix. The shop serves it dry, or in an aromatic herbal broth. Also in the area is Kurt Cubic Cafe Makan Melayu, a modest outfit serving nasi goreng and kuey teow goreng.
Strawberry picking
2pm
A trip to Cameron Highlands wouldn’t be complete without tasting and picking strawberries. Take your pick from family-run Raju Hill Strawberry Farm (it has a cafÊ that serves strawberry-themed desserts and drinks) or Big Red Strawberry Farm, a hydroponic farm, which also offers a strawberry-picking and dine-in experience.
For souvenirs, take a short walk from Raju Hill to Cactus Point, which sells small cacti and other potted plants such as ferns, pitcher plants, air plants and venus fly traps. And near Big Red is Cactus Valley, another popular cactus nursery, which has a more elaborate setup but charges a small admission fee.
12 H o u r s
November 2020
20
The Smokehouse Hotel
3.30pm
For a speedy history lesson, stop by the Time Tunnel museum. Curated by Cameron Highlander See Kok Shan, the museum chronicles the history of the highlands, from its discovery in 1885 by British colonial government surveyor William Cameron, to its development as a hill resort in the 1920s. The museum has an extensive collection of historical photographs and information about the local Orang Asli community, alongside numerous artefacts, memorabilia and collectables.
One of the many tea plantations that dot the hillside
4.30pm
Cameron Highlands bears a striking resemblance to the English countryside and Tudor-style The Smokehouse Hotel is wellknown for its traditional British afternoon teas. Built in 1939, the hotel commemorates Cameron Highlands’ colonial heritage. Soak in the hotel’s Victorian-era décor — from the ornate chairs to the traditional fireplaces — then adjourn to the garden for scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, while you immerse in the tranquil atmosphere.
12 H o u r s
November 2020
21
7.30pm
A steamboat dinner is highly recommended for there’s nothing quite like the warm comfort of a steaming hot pot on a crisp, cool night. Cameron Organic Produce Steamboat Restaurant serves organic produce — mostly grown in their farm, and the soup is boiled over traditional charcoal stoves, which gives it a deeper flavour.
6pm
Located on a small hilltop, Sam Poh Temple is a crimson-and-yellow Chinese Buddhist temple that offers a serene respite for visitors. Surrounded by lush greenery, it is the fourth-largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and is well worth a visit for its unique architecture and religious works of art. The prayer halls house gleaming golden statues of Buddhist deities and bodhisattvas, and there is a small pond outside stocked with plump and colourful koi fish.
If you’re looking to spend the night, Cameron Highlands offers plenty of accommodation options that cater to all budgets, such as hostels in the town centres of Brinchang, Tanah Rata and Ringlet, quaint hillside homestays, and upscale resorts.•
12 H o u r s
November 2020
22
Experience a slice of England in one of these English-style resorts Lakehouse Cameron Highlands Close to the towns of Tanah Rata and Ringlet, this secluded boutique resort makes a charming abode for a quiet and relaxing getaway. Try your hand at jam-making using freshly-picked strawberries or join a guided hike into the nearby jungle. lakehouse-cameron.com
Cameron Highlands Resort
Adjacent to an 18-hole golf course and home to Jim Thompson Tea Room is Cameron Highlands Resort. Exuding elegance with teak and silk touches, the tea room is a great spot to savour finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones. A stay here isn’t complete until you’ve tried the treatments in The Spa Village, which are inspired by Orang Asli rituals and use honey, strawberries, tea and roses.
Planters Country Hotel Formerly The Bala’s Holiday Chalet, Planters Country Hotel retains its pre-war structure from when it first opened as a boarding school in 1934 for European expatriate children. The bedrooms come with fireplaces but are also equipped with modern amenities. The hotel is conveniently located just minutes away from Parit Falls, a tranquil waterfall tucked within a nearby forest reserve.
Inside Look
November 2020
24
Text Zaleha Khairene Ismail Photos CS Chan, Jenny Leong and Zaleha Khairene Ismail
Shoring Up For The Future SITUATED ON ONE OF THE BEAUTIFUL PERHENTIAN ISLANDS, OFF MALAYSIA’S NORTHEAST COAST, ALUNAN RESORT IS TAKING THE LEAD ON A PROJECT TO REHABILITATE CORAL GROWTH. GROWTH. THEIR STORY SERVES AS MOTIVATION TO RESORT OWNERS AROUND THE WORLD AND PEOPLE EVERYWHERE ON WHAT IT MEANS TO TAKE OWNERSHIP OF SHARED ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE WHERE YOU CAN.
C
oral planting or propagation was once the domain of scientists and marine biologists, but with the escalated damage suffered by the marine ecosystem, there is now a heightened sense of urgency for mankind to step up and mitigate the situation and, if possible, reverse the damage.
Inside Look
November 2020
25
We are recovering and transplanting the coral fragments into a special media where they can attach and grow quickly. In this way, we are able to help the reef recover.
While many tour operators and resort owners have adopted the eco-tourism model, positive outcomes are varied — and that is why I was very impressed during a recent vacation to the Perhentian Islands, where I participated in a coral planting exercise organised by Alunan Resort, dubbed the Alunan Coral Project. It was a glorious day at Petani beach on Perhentian Kecil (one of two main islands). After breakfast, we headed to the beach where we met the project’s consulting marine biologist Dr Gerald B Goedon — fondly known as Dr Gerry — who has championed this cause for over 30 years.
The set-up was simple. Small pots made of concrete were lined up along the beach, no bigger than the flower pots we use at home. Each guest was assigned a pot, along with a bucket of sea water with coral fragments submerged within. Dr Gerry explained that these fragments were still alive. “Lots of corals are broken by divers, snorkellers, tourists and by the monsoon. These small pieces are normally lost. We are recovering and transplanting them into a special media where they can attach and grow quickly. In this way, we are able to help the reef recover,” he said.
Inside Look
November 2020
26
I knelt on the sand, placing the pot in front of me. Embedded on the pot’s surface was a cable tie with its ends jutting out. Using gloves, we each took a small coral fragment. They were from a variety under the acropora and pocillopora group, commonly known as the ‘staghorn coral’ due to their resemblance to antlers. We were then instructed to place the coral in a stable position before securing them with the cable ties. Once the corals were securely fastened, the pots were handed over to the crew, who brought them to the coral nursery. Guests can also snorkel out to the coral nursery and watch the transfer process. From the water’s surface, we could see divers transferring the pots to the coral slabs on the seabed. After 30 minutes, they resurfaced and told us, “Good job guys, it is done!” to the delight of the guests. The resort has put in five large structures on the seabed that acts as the base for growing the coral transplants. The way the trays of coral are laid out encourages smaller fishes to make their home in the area. The relationship between fish and coral is very intimate. The fish passes nutrients to the coral through excrement, while the corals provide protection and a safe habitat for the fish to thrive.
Inside Look
November 2020
27
Restoring the corals is not an overnight process. Dr Gerry explained that corals grow slowly, with the slowest growing at one to two centimetres per year and the fastest about 10cm per year. “We help the reef to recover using the faster growing corals. These grow quickly enough that we can actually see improvements. If a guest were to come and transplant a coral today and come back next year, what looked like a little sprig
when they started will be a bouquet of flowers by then,” he said. According to Dr Gerry, coral planting and rehabilitation does not require professional diving or marine biology experience — everyone can play a part. “There are several stages involved. The first is to collect broken corals, which can be done by a group of divers, or when you go out on the reef with a guide,” he said.
Inside Look
November 2020
28
Live corals tend to be richer in colour and have a shiny, slippery appearance because corals produce a lot of mucus, while dead ones are usually covered in silt, sediment and a furry sort of algae. At Alunan, Dr Gerry explained, guests are advised on how to tell these apart and they are also provided with educational materials in the form of slide shows that explain what corals really are, how the coral project works, and what they can do to play a part. The second part of the process is transplanting corals onto an active chemical surface, which was what we did earlier on. While using plastic cable ties to secure the coral fragments seems counterintuitive to the project’s purpose, seeing as how we are trying to keep plastic waste out of the ocean, Dr Gerry assures that it is not harmful. “Our corals grow over the plastic so it ends up inside the coral skeleton within a few months. The coral is unaffected because the cable tie is non-toxic. Plastic in seawater has an extremely long life if kept away from sunlight so it is essentially preserved inside the coral skeleton and never breaks down,” he explained.
Despite the costs involved in the project, Dr Gerry is hopeful about the results. “Every one of us has an obligation to do something to help protect our environment and our children’s future. A resort can always strive to be greener in the way they operate. In my opinion, Alunan’s coral programme is leading the way on Perhentian Island, as it is innovative and encourages guests to become involved,” he said.
Inside Look
November 2020
29
It’s hard to ignore the importance of such an initiative after hearing the statistics. Coral reefs are currently the most threatened habitat on the planet, despite being an important part of the marine ecosystem — and the world has already lost half of its coral reefs. “At present, the world is experiencing low-level coral bleaching as a result of global warming. Some corals are gradually being damaged and may become extinct. Other corals are adapting and becoming more tolerant. For our coral planting project, we try to pick warm water-tolerant coral in order to give them the best possible chance to thrive,” he pointed out.
Looking at long-term goals, Alunan aims to support the regeneration of 5,000 to 10,000 corals annually. Plans are also in the pipeline to hire a resident marine biologist, who will supervise the project on a full-time basis. The hope is that other establishments will use Alunan’s programme as a baseline to implement similar initiatives on a larger scale. “We can do this with children, school groups and anyone who would like to contribute. We believe that the government and relevant authorities would welcome such initiatives and we look forward to their support,” Dr Gerry concluded. •
P e r s p e c t i ve
November 2020
Text Eris Choo Photos SooPhye Outfits Courtesy of Celest Thoi Jewellery and accessories Courtesy of Emperor Jewellery
Home and
Living THREE INSPIRING LADIES SHARE HOW THEY’VE TURNED THEIR HOUSE INTO A HOME WITH THEIR LOVE FOR TABLEWARE.
S
F
or those who take pride in entertaining friends and family in their home, quality tableware is essential — not just for aesthetic reasons, but also to elevate the way you enjoy the meal. Elegant table settings suggest meticulous attention to details, while colourful high tea sets and beautifully presented pastries become talking points for guests as they sip on a cuppa and bond over dainty pastries and sandwiches.
30
P e r s p e c t i ve
July 2020
31
Cherrie Chin
She is a woman of many hats. Known in high society circles for her stylish looks, the youthful mother of four is also an enthusiastic jewellery collector and designer, as well as the co-founder of Les Jardin Jewelry House. Her fine jewellery line draws inspiration from France’s famous jardins (gardens), which Chin loves for its natural beauty and especially the flowers. What sparked your interest in luxury tableware? I’ve always liked the finer things in life, like jewellery — which is why I find myself drawn to luxury tableware. I like to have friends over for afternoon tea, and there’s no better way to serve guests than with quality tableware. Noritake is one of my favourite brands as it is renowned for its superb craftsmanship, intricate details and attention to quality. I also like their designs, which are classy and elegant. I started out with smaller sets for my own use, but I’ve bought more since moving to a new house with more space to entertain guests. Is there a particular set that is close to your heart? I have a Noritake tea set that is similar to the one owned by Tun Dr Mahathir. Whenever I use it to serve guests, it’s always a talking point.
Chin thinks that fine tableware helps to elevate the mood in one’s home
Why do you think it’s important to have good tableware in one’s home? The impression you give to guests is different when you have a nice table setting — it helps to elevate the overall mood and of one’s home. It’s the same when you go to a nice restaurant and see that they use fine tableware, because it shows a high level of service and dedication — you instantly know that they’re serious about providing the best service for their guests. What is your definition of success? Success to me is when you’re content and happy with what you have. It should not be measured by your title or how much you earn. It’s about bringing value to and being able to contribute to your family, your friends and the industry that you’re in. Success is also about sharing knowledge. When others seek your opinion in a particular field, it shows that they value your input, and that you’re good at what you’re doing.
P e r s p e c t i ve
November 2020
32
sets that my mother bought years ago. If possible, I’d like to hand them down to my children.
Datin Fouziah enjoys gifting tableware to friends and family
Datin Fouziah Gous
Acting projects, hosting her own live show on TV, running a bird’s nest business — one wonders how Datin Fouziah Gous does it all. The youthful mother of two young children, who is a household name in the Malaysian entertainment scene, takes it all in her stride. How did you discover your love for luxury tableware? When I was a stewardess for Malaysia Airlines, we used Noritake tableware to serve business class passengers. You could see how happy they were whenever the food was served — it was like “Wow! I get to dine from Noritake plates on board.” That in turn made me proud and confident to serve them. Why Noritake? The brand is established and known the world over because of their designs and quality. You can see the difference between a Noritake set and regular tableware, from the colours to the craftsmanship. There are other good brands out there as well, but this is my choice. Their designs are evergreen and not overdone. My mother-in-law has a set that’s more than 15 years old, but it still looks fresh and contemporary. I’m still using some of the Noritake
What have you added to your collection lately? I recently bought a few Carnival sets for myself and my mother-in-law. These fun and colourful sets are just perfect for high tea. I also bought a complete formal dinner set in gold and silver. I usually buy tableware for myself, and as gifts too. My new house is under renovation, but the first thing I bought was tableware! Why do you think it’s important to have good tableware in one’s home? Food brings people together. It’s the Malaysian way — to serve something when guests come over, so if you have good food and nice tableware, that makes them happy. If everything you do is cincai (Malaysian slang for doing things in a lackadaisical manner), it reflects on the way you handle situations. I always make sure that my family and I dine with proper place setting. We might not have a full setup every day, but it has to be nicely done. I have tableware for daily use, as well as special ones reserved for formal occasions and social events such as high tea with friends.
P e r s p e c t i ve
Tanny Tee
She could easily have been a lady of leisure but a strong passion for problem-solving led Tanny Tee to a full-time career in wealth planning and management. An agency manager with Hong Leong Assurance, she has personally groomed multimillion-dollar agents on her team. She is also mother to a pair of 10-yearold twin sons, and a 13-year-old daughter. Why did you decide on this career path? I’ve been in this industry for over a decade. I was previously the principal of a dance school, specialising in ballet and modern contemporary dance. Insurance was something very different. But I find that the main objective is still the same — providing solutions — which is a passion of mine. Many people are still ignorant about insurance, so it is my responsibility to educate them on the steps they can take in case of unforeseen circumstances. Every time I see or hear about sudden deaths and illnesses, I feel the need to ensure that breadwinners have a legacy plan to prepare for the future and that their wealth can be sustained over generations.
Tee considers good tableware as an investment for the home
Why do you think it’s important to have good tableware in one’s home? Just like insurance, luxury tableware is an investment — if you can afford it, you should definitely have it. It represents who you are and how you present yourself to guests who visit the home. Good visual presentation is important. When you dine using nice tableware, you’ll somehow feel that you have a better appetite. Not everyone thinks that having quality tableware is a necessity. What would you say to that? The best thing for me is being able to enjoy good food in a nice and comfortable setting, in the company of my favourite people. It’s all about how you value the people around you and provide for them, whether it’s family, friends or clients. It is like an invitation: come to my house; I’d like to provide the best home-cooked food for you, and to share what I have invested in. It is because you value your friends that you share these beautiful things that you have so you can appreciate them together. •
T r a c ke r
November 2020
35
Text Eris Choo Photos Tourism Malaysia
Sacred
Sights
MALAYSIA IS HOME TO MANY BEAUTIFUL PLACES OF WORSHIP — A TESTAMENT TO THE COUNTRY’S RELIGIOUS HARMONY AND DIVERSITY. BEYOND BEING PLACES OF RESPITE AND CONTEMPLATION FOR THE FAITHFUL, THEY ALSO BOAST AMAZING ARCHITECTURE.
Al-Bukhary Mosque, Kedah
The design of Al-Bukhary Mosque in Alor Setar is inspired by Central Asian architecture, which flourished during the Islamic Golden Age. Visitors and devotees enter through a five-tiered main archway, which represents the five pillars of Islam. Walking in to the central courtyard, one is greeted by palm trees and a beautiful pool, reminiscent of the one found at Imam Al-Bukhary’s Mausoleum in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Also noteworthy are the minaret towers and seven top-shaped domes surrounding the courtyard, which are painted in vivid shades of blue and turquoise and feature intricate Arabesque motifs.
T r a c ke r
November 2020
36
Christ Church, Melaka
This is Malaysia’s oldest Protestant Church and sits within Melaka’s historic Dutch Square. Built in the mid-18th century during the Dutch occupation of Melaka, Christ Church served Dutch Christians in those days. It was later re-consecrated as the Church of England during British colonial rule. The structure was originally white in colour, but it was painted a striking,
terracotta red in 1911 to match the surrounding buildings. Inside, visitors will find tombstones with Portuguese and Armenian inscriptions incorporated into the floors, as well as memorial plaques in Dutch, Armenian and English. Just outside the church is an impressive Victorian marble fountain, which was erected in 1904 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.
T r a c ke r
November 2020
37
Thean Hou Temple, Kuala Lumpur One of KL’s grandest Chinese temples, Thean Hou Temple is dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu, or Heavenly Mother. Within the sprawling complex, visitors will find a grandiose six-tiered building, which blends modern design elements with traditional Chinese motifs such as dragons, phoenixes and clouds. On the fourth level is a large courtyard
lined with red pillars and a grand archway that offers scenic views of the city skyline from the temple’s elevated position atop a hill. A sea of lanterns — these are lit at night during religious and cultural festivals — bob above the open space. The corridors feature ornately carved ceilings of blue, green and gold, while the prayer hall houses regal statues of deities and bodhisattvas.
Batu Caves, Selangor
In 2018, the 272 steps leading up to Batu Caves — a limestone hill with several caves, one of which is home to a Hindu cave temple — got a makeover and were painted in the colours of the rainbow. It makes for a colourful sight when viewed from afar, next to the temple’s giant golden statue of Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war. Brave the steep ascent and emerge into a natural limestone cavern that contains several ornate Hindu shrines, set against a backdrop of majestic limestone formations. The furthest chamber within opens up into the sky, which allows for sunlight to filter down and surrounds one of the shrines like a halo of light.
T r a c ke r
November 2020
38
Crystal Mosque, Terengganu
Located within the Islamic Heritage Park in Terengganu, the Crystal Mosque is widely considered to be one of Malaysia’s most beautiful mosques. The name comes from the mosque’s shiny domes and four towering minarets, which are made of steel and glass. During the day, the material’s reflective quality makes it seem as if the building is glittering in the sun. Come night, the modern structure is illuminated with colourful lights. The mosque is able to accommodate up to 1,500 worshippers, and also offers Wi-Fi and IT facilities.
Street Chef
November 2020
39
Text Eris Choo Photos Raymond Ooi
Spice
Legacy INSPIRED BY RECIPES FROM HIS LATE MOTHER, A FORMER ENGINEER TURNS HIS LIFELONG PASSION FOR FOOD INTO A BUSINESS SELLING INDIAN-STYLE CLAY POT RICE.
A
ll around the world and across different cultures, people have been using clay pots to cook food for centuries. It is said to be beneficial for health, as the natural porous properties of clay help to retain the food’s nutritional value, whilst also imbibing the dish with an earthy aroma and a deep, complex flavour.
Street Chef
November 2020
40
In India, clay pot cooking is a timehonoured tradition, and famous Indian dishes such as briyani, curry and chicken handi are often cooked in clay pots. In Malaysia, a new generation of MalaysianIndian street chefs are bringing this rich culinary tradition to the masses with satti soru, or Indian-style clay pot rice. A place to try this dish is at Restoran Try to Eat food court in Rawang, a small but bustling town on the fringes of Selangor. Although it is the only Indian stall in the area, Spices Claypot Rice gets customers of all races — proving that good food truly brings people together. The chef-owner is Janagaraju Arumugam, fondly known as Jana. A former engineer, he quit his job two years ago to pursue his passion for food, despite not having any experience in the food industry. “I’ve always loved cooking. I started helping out in the kitchen when I was 13, and I’ve not looked back ever since,” says the 30-year-old. It was Jana’s late mother who inspired him to start the business. Although she passed away when Jana was only 17, the recipes and cooking techniques she handed down remain close to his heart. “My mother was a talented cook. She loved being in the kitchen, and everyone loved her food. I don’t want these family recipes to be lost, which is why I want to share it with my customers,” he says.
(top to bottom) Jana’s dishes are based on his mother’s recipes; cooking in a clay pot provides even heat and better flavour; the masala paste at Spices is prepared in a central kitchen
Street Chef
November 2020
41
At Spices, diners can choose from 15 to 20 varieties of clay pot rice. Firm favourites include the chicken masala, mutton masala and prawn masala, but they also have less common ingredients such as sardine and salted fish. Vegetarian options are also available. Aside from the main branch in Rawang, Jana also has stalls in Kota Kemuning, Selayang and Klang. He employs 15 workers to help with the business. The mutton masala clay pot rice is one of Spices’ signature dishes. The meat is extremely tender and flavourful, having absorbed the flavours of the curry, and it pairs perfectly with the soft and fluffy rice. While the heat is not obvious at first bite, the spice hits gradually. For those who like seafood, the prawn masala clay pot rice is highly recommended and comes in generous portions that will satisfy hearty eaters. The secret to this addictive taste lies in the masala paste, which contains over 20 spices, such as cinnamon, pepper, coriander, cumin seeds and mace. “We grind the paste in a central kitchen, using a blend of spices sourced locally and from India. Since there are no additives, it is a healthier alternative to pre-packed masala mix,� Jana explains.
Street Chef
November 2020
42
Each order starts with a base of onion, potatoes, dried chilli and masala paste, which is constantly stirred in the clay pot to bring out a mouthwatering aroma. Rice is added last, after the liquid has simmered down, so it does not become soggy. All of the dishes are cooked to order so diners should expect a wait of between 15 to 20 minutes. “There is definitely a difference when cooking food in a clay pot. Since we are slow cooking the ingredients, it allows the natural flavours to permeate through, and everything is also cooked evenly,” Jana points out. “We use premium ingredients that are fresh and high quality in order to ensure a good and consistent taste,” he adds. Jana keeps things fresh by rotating items on the menu as well as adding new dishes. He recently started selling clay pot briyani — another of his mother’s recipes. Despite his current success, things were not always easy for Jana. In the early days, not many were inclined to believe that he would succeed. “We started this as a part-time venture. My wife was a pharmacist and I was still working
as an engineer. We’d only open our stall after we finished our day jobs, at 6pm. It was tiring, but passion and a desire to share the joy of my mother’s cooking kept me going,” he quips. Jana is hoping to open five more stalls across Peninsular Malaysia, including in Melaka, Penang, Ipoh and Johor. “We’re also looking to set up a proper restaurant in the future,” he says. •
SPICES CLAYPOT RICE Restoran Try to Eat, 48, Jalan 1D, Taman Jati, 48000 Rawang, Selangor Opening hours: 11AM - 11PM (daily)
Diners are spoilt for choice as Spices offers a variety of clay pot dishes
Humble Beginnings
November 2020
43
Text Eris Choo Photos Courtesy of Loka Made
CreativePursuit HOMEGROWN BRAND LOKA MADE CHARMS WITH ITS BEAUTIFUL, LOCALLY INSPIRED ART PIECES.
W
hat makes Malaysia unique? Is it the warm and friendly people, or breathtaking natural landscapes? Perhaps it’s the amazing culture, the myriad of mouth-watering cuisines, our colourful heritage — and the list goes on.
These are some of the things that homegrown creative brand Loka Made tries to capture in its products. Founded by Chong Fei Giap and Audrey Chew, the company produces art books, pop-up postcards, notebooks, and other souvenirs, inspired by everyday Malaysian life. Whimsical and nostalgic, their designs feature everything from scenes of small-town sundry shops and heritage buildings, to iconic Malaysian landmarks and traditional dishes; all these are sometimes interspersed with fantasy elements.
Humble Beginnings
November 2020
44
“We started Loka Made in 2015. It's a funny story — we didn’t plan for it,” says Audrey, who’s the managing director. “At the time, we ran a studio called Running Snail. Our projects were mostly corporate illustrations, specialising in artwork with local elements, for companies like Petronas,” Audrey shares. Loka Made’s first ‘project’ was to publish an art book featuring a series of illustrations, which Fei Giap has been working on since 2011. The illustrations were inspired by a visit to his father’s hometown in Kuala Pilah, a small town in Negeri Sembilan. The unique artwork – scenes of rustic Malaysian landscapes and local architecture rendered in Japanese anime art style — quickly caught the attention of local art enthusiasts as well as corporate brands. “Our initial idea was just to publish the artbook. We were young and crazy; we poured all our savings into it!” Audrey says,
(left to right) Some of Loka Made’s products like stickers inspired by nostalgia
adding that they spent about RM40,000 on the project. “We then thought, since we’re already launching this, we might as well create a brand and a few more products to sell, so we created a series of pop-up postcards,” she adds. Audrey and Fei Giap approached Kinokuniya Bookstore, and despite Loka Made being a small independent studio with not many products, the bookstore giant was willing to put the artbook on their shelves. “They even provided us with window display space, and a place for us to do our book launch. The feedback was very encouraging,” Audrey says. The rest, as they say, is history.
Humble Beginnings
November 2020
45
(left to right) The Loka Made team; one of their popular pop-up designs
Today, Audrey manages a team of four artists and one designer, and does the sales and marketing for the company. Fei Giap spearheads the brand’s creative direction. Although Loka Made has a retail arm, a significant amount of work involves creating artwork for corporate clients. Coming from an art background and with virtually no business experience, the early days were challenging for the duo as they were relatively unknown, but the bigger hurdle was that there were no other companies that had a similar concept. It was all new. “We promoted ourselves the traditional way. We’d go to tourist spots and pass out samples of our work to shops. Although there was some interest, not many businesses called us back,” Audrey recalls, and adds that many Malaysians were not as appreciative of local art back then, as they are today. “It’s also why we started Loka Made. As locals, we’d like to promote what the country has to offer, whether it’s amazing culture, food or scenery,” Audrey says.
The pair’s persistence seems to have paid off. Today, you can find Loka Made products in many local independent bookstores and art stores such as Stickeriffic and Salt X Paper, as well as bigger chains like Kinokuniya and Popular. Aside from their studio-cum-physical store in USJ9 Subang, they also have a shop in Central Market Kuala Lumpur. Items are also available online at lokamade.com. Loka Made’s products are affordably priced: their postcards go for RM2 per piece, while the pop-up pieces range between RM10 and RM20. “If we’re going to educate the public as part of our vision, it has to be accessible to everyone,” Audrey explains.
Humble Beginnings
November 2020
46
To accurately portray the local architecture and subjects in their artwork, a lot of research is required. “We have a catalogue of photos to refer to, for example, if our artist needs to draw a scene from 1960s Malaysia,” Audrey explains. “Sometimes we also work with local historians and professors, like with a recent collaboration, which will feature the different Malaysian Chinese clans,” she adds. Loka Made also comes up with their own in-house projects each year. During the Movement Control Order in Malaysia in March, they conceptualised the Tapir Man — a cute character based on the Malayan tapir. Their “Ride MY Wave” series, which includes T-shirts, bags, notebooks and customisable Touch N Go cards, was also created in response to the current pandemic, serving as a reminder to fellow Malaysians to stay strong. The illustration for “Ride MY Wave” features fantasy elements. The Malayan tiger, our national animal, captains the ‘ship’ that everyone is sailing on and there are people of all races on the boat. You will also spot iconic landmarks such as the Stadthuys in Melaka, and Malaysian wildlife like the tapir, orangutan and hornbill.
“2020 has been full of ups and downs, and we’re hoping to weather this storm together. In the artwork, you will see lots of details, which we think people will enjoy looking out for,” Audrey points out. When asked on future plans, Audrey chuckles. “If you asked us last year, I could tell you we had a lot of plans. This year, we’re just focusing on stabilising the business,” she says. Audrey thinks that if there’s one good thing that has come out of the pandemic, it’s that more people are travelling locally. “Malaysia has so much to offer. We hope that more people will realise this. It gives meaning to what we do,” she says. •
(top and bottom) Loka Made aims to promote the beauty of Malaysia through its illustrations and designs, which feature local elements
Health & Beauty
November 2020
47
What’s New
1
This 4-in-1 formula in Australian Pink Clay Smoothing Body Sand by Sand & Sky draws out the dirt from your pores (thanks to the purifying pink clay) while ground macadamia and coconut shells in the mix gently scrub away dry and dull surface skin. What it leaves behind: smooth, glowing (hat tip to mica glitter) skin. It’s vegan and made with none of the synthetic stuff. RRP: RM165 (180g) sephora.my
CHECK OUT THESE RECENT LAUNCHES
1
2
Bottled Sunshine
Scrub And Glow
2
This new scent, Le Tempes Des Rêves EDT by Goutal, has been described as “a wander through … landscapes of a thousand bitter orange trees”. The citrus hit in this scent comes from bergamot, orange blossom and neroli, with hints of herbaceous myrtle, and warm base notes of sandalwood and white musk. Available in 30ml, 50ml and 100ml. RRP: From RM359 (30ml) kensapothecary.com.my
3
3
Power Of C
Skip the foundation step. Just a small amount of +C Vit Brightening Perfector by Pixi is all you’d need to even out skin tone, and get a boost of antioxidants for a dewy, radiant finish. Then apply your makeup as usual or just a slick of lippie, and you’re good to go. RRP: RM85 (25ml) sephora.my
Pack Up
November 2020
48
Grab
1
And Go
THESE FUNCTIONAL PIECES OF CARRY-ON LUGGAGE ALL COME WITH THEIR RESPECTIVE MERITS, FROM UPPING YOUR FASHION CREDS TO WON’T-BREAK THEBANK AFFORDABILITY.
One For The Kids
A backpack that’s designed to grow with your child? This Crew BackPack by Stokke is constructed with water repellent fabric and hidden zippers that allow for expansion (extra storage is always welcome), while padded shoulder straps and adjustable chest clip make for a comfortable fit. It also comes with a pull-out seat pad for added comfort when sitting on hard surfaces, and a storage bag. RRP: US$89 (RM369) jet-kids.com/shop/crew-backpack
1
3
JETKIDS BY STOKKE
2
2
Berry Nice
A dab of colour and voila! A new iteration of the Essential by Rimowa is born. Dubbed Berry, the deep purple colour is infused throughout this strong, durable, and lightweight cabin bag, from its handle and zipper to badge and wheel housing. Perfect for two to three days of travel. RRP: RM3,000 rimowa.com
3
Divide And Conquer
More than just a bag for a short trip, the Weekender by Bellroy is designed with spacious front zip pockets (great for tech and toiletries), internal padded laptop sleeve (fits 13” devices), ample internal pockets for all manner of items including ones to hold shoes or water bottles, and much more. RRP: S$339 (RM1,035) bellroy.com
Pack Up
November 2020
49
*Some RRPs have been converted into Malaysian Ringgit and are correct at the time of conversion.
4
4
Closet On The Go
This super clever Carry-On Closet (in hardwearing polycarbonate shell and aluminium frame) by Solgaard Design has a built-in six-shelf ‘closet’ system that not only keeps things organised but also acts as a compression cube that will help you save space. There’s also the option of charging your devices with a solarbank (sold separately), which you can easily keep powered up by sunlight. RRP: US$265 (RM1,097) solgaard.co
5
5
Backpack A Legend
Coach pays tribute to 1980s New York graffiti artist-turned-painter Jean-Michel Basquiat in this collection, which features his signature motifs. This chic backpack in pebble leather (has a mesh backing to keep you cool and comfortable) was designed with pockets inside and out — they are perfect for keeping things in their place. It also has a sleeve that can hold a 15” laptop. RRP: RM4,900 malaysia.coach.com
July 2020
50
Firef ly News 50
News & Happenings
54
Firefly Network
55
Firefly Fleet & Service Info
Fun-Filled Week At Subang Airport Passengers departing from Subang Airport from 22 to 27 September 2020 were pleasantly surprised as they got to participate in lucky draw sessions to win great prizes. Excitement was in the air at the Departure Hall, as cabin crew engaged thousands of leisure and business travellers throughout the period, encouraging them to download the Firefly mobile app and join in the lucky draw games.
The new version of Firefly’s mobile app is now better than ever, with redesigned navigation and userfriendly features. Designed to be an all-in-one digital travel assistant, users can manage flight bookings, generate their own e-boarding passes and much more. There will also be upcoming contests, with a chance to win free flight tickets. The Firefly mobile app is available on App Store, Google Play and App Gallery.
Firefly Checklist
November 2020
52
My Flying Checklist Before booking my flight I’m fit to travel. My travel documents (MyKad/MyPR/valid passport and other documents) are in order. I’ve checked the travel updates, and departure requirements as well as arrival requirements at my destination.
Before heading to the airport If I have any symptoms, I’ll go to the doctor immediately. I’ve packed sufficient face masks, hand sanitiser, antibacterial wipes and my hygiene essentials. The Hygiene Kit is also available on baord (approach the cabin crew to obtain one). I’ll bring my own pen to minimise contamination. I’ll opt for web check-in and arrive at the airport at least 1 hour prior to departure. Manual check-in is also available.
I will also... Practise physical distancing. Frequently wash my hands properly with soap and water. Sanitise my hands before putting on my face mask. Change to a new face mask every 4 hours, if I am wearing disposable masks. Remember to change the filter as advised, if I am wearing a reusable mask. Follow correct etiquette when coughing and sneezing (cover my nose and mouth, cough/sneeze into my elbow, and immediately wash/sanitise my hands afterwards). Avoid touching my eyes, nose and mouth. Minimise contact with high-touch surfaces and items. Scan the displayed QR code or opt for digital check-in before entering any premise/outlet.
Fly safely and confidently with Firefly.
Download this checklist from Firefly’s website.
Firefly Safety Measures
November October 2020
53
Fly Safely And Confidently With Firefly Download this guide from Firefly’s website
1
Pre-flight
Travel update: Check the latest travel updates from authorised sources and also on Firefly’s website: fireflyz.com.my
Booking flexibility for Fly Infinite and Corporate: For Fly Infinite or corporate programme passengers, you may enjoy unlimited changes to your booking.
Web check-in: Check-in online to minimise contact. Domestic passengers with hand luggae may proceed to security clearance and boarding area with a mobile boarding pass. *Terms & Conditions apply
2
Airport facilities & check-in
Kiosks and check-in counters: Self-service check-in kiosks are regularly cleaned and sanitised. Physical distancing: Floor and seat markings indicate a safe distance. Other services: Special assistance, including wheelchairs are managed according to safety and health SOP.
4
Boarding
3
Airport lounge
Entry protocols: Temperature checks and contactless registration will be carried out. Safety and health protocols: Temperature checks and floor/ seat markings are part of the precautionary measures.
Boarding gate: Contactless security checks and temperature checks are carried out before boarding.
Physical distancing: Admission into the boarding area might be staggered at a given time.
Document verification: Staff will verify your travel documents. Contactless boarding using mobile boarding pass is also possible for domestic flights.
Boarding process: Boarding will be done in small groups, with priority given to passengers requiring special assistance.
5
In-flight cabin
Face mask and hygiene kit: Passengers should always wear their face mask on board. Cabin crew will have their face mask on at all times. Hygiene Kit is available for passengers on board. In-flight refreshments: Snacks are pre-packed and sealed, and beverages are served according to food hygiene standards. Cabin cleanliness: Cleaning and sanitisation are done after every flight, while disinfection of the aircraft cabin is conducted daily, according to the SOP.
6
Arrival
Physical distancing: From disembarkation to the walkway, arrival hall, baggage collection carousel and exit, safe distancing is highly advised.
Net work Map
November 2020
54
*
Banda Aceh*
(Kuala Lumpur)
Cameron Highlands
Stay safe and minimise contact by opting for online check-in: 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 the Firefly Mobile app. Download the app for free from Apple App Store and Google Play Store. KIOSK CHECK-IN: Check in and print your boarding pass at these kiosks in the airport. This service is available to code-share passengers as well.
*
(Seletar Airport)
*Currently not available due to border closure and travel restrictions. **Correct at the time of publishing. Please visit www.fireflyz.com.my for more information.
HIGHLAND GETAWAY Famous for its tea plantations, strawberry farms and English high teas, Cameron Highlands is the perfect spot to spend a weekend. Read our 12-hour guide on pages 17 – 22.
Net work Map
November 2020
55
Firefly Sales Offices & Counters SUBANG JOHOR Subang Skypark Ground Floor, Aero Mall, Terminal Senai International Ground Floor, Departure Airport, 81250 Hall Terminal 3, Sultan Johor Bahru Abdul Aziz Shah Airport TEL: +607 598 7488 47200 Subang, Selangor OPERATING HOURS: TEL: +603 7846 3622 Daily; 6 am to 10 pm OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 5 am to 10 pm KEDAH Main Terminal, Sultan PENANG Abdul Halim Airport, Flight Operations Centre, 06550 Alor Setar Mezzanine Floor, TEL: +604 714 3911 Penang International OPERATING HOURS: Airport, 11900 Bayan Daily; 7 am to 8 pm Lepas TEL: +604 630 2489 LANGKAWI OPERATING HOURS: Langkawi International Daily; 5:30 am to 10 pm Airport, 07100 Padang Matsirat, Kedah KELANTAN TEL: +604 955 9622 Sultan Ismail Petra OPERATING HOURS: Airport, Daily; 9 am to 8 pm 16100 Kota Bharu TEL: +609 774 1377 PERAK OPERATING HOURS: Sultan Azlan Shah Daily; 5:30 am to Airport, 30350 Ipoh 9:30 pm OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 9 am to 5 pm TERENGGANU Sultan Mahmud Airport, SINGAPORE 21300 Kuala Terengganu 21, Seletar Aerospace TEL: +609 667 5377 Road 1 OPERATING HOURS: #01-03, Singapore 797405 Daily; 7 am to 9 pm TEL: +65 3158 8279 OPERATING HOURS: PAHANG Daily; 7 am to 7:30 pm Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport, 25150 Kuantan INDONESIA TEL: +609 538 2911 International OPERATING HOURS: Sat to Departure Hall Mon, Wed & Thur; Sultan Iskandar Muda 9 am to 6 pm Airport Banda Aceh EMAIL: aceh@fireflyz. com.my OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 8:30 am to 5 pm
Airline’s Marketing Representative THAILAND 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 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 Selected Airport Ticket Offices KLIA Level 5, Departure Hall, Main Terminal Building Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) 64000 Sepang, Selangor OPERATING HOURS: Daily; 5:30 am to 12 am 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
Call Centre General Hotline: Malaysia +603 7845 4543 (Daily 8 am – 8 pm) Singapore +65 3158 8279 (Daily 8 am – 8 pm)
Our Fleet & Service Information
November 2020
56
Height
7.65m Maximum Fuel Capacity
ATR 72-500
841 Gallons Manufacturer
Avions de transport régional (ATR) No. of aircrafts
12
Passenger Seating
72 (single class) Length
On-Time Performance
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.
No-Smoking Policy
Smoking, including the use of electronic cigarettes, is prohibited on all flights.
Lithium Batteries
Lithium metal, 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 nonspillable 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.
27.17m Wingspan
27.05m
Maximum Cruising Speed
510km/h
Maximum range with full passenger load
890 nautical miles (1648.28km) Operation Hubs
Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang & Penang International Airport, Penang
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.
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 2.5kg 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.
Our Fleet & Service Information
July 2020
57
Wheelchair Assistance
Manual self-propelled wheelchairs can be provided for a fee, subject to availability. Please enquire through our Call Centre upon booking.
Cabin Luggage Handling
Passenger and crew safety on board 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.
Electronic Cigarettes
Electronic cigarettes must be carried on one’s person or in carryon baggage only. Recharging of the device in-flight is not permitted.
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.
# FlyFirefly
November 2020
58
Taga g us on Instagram @ fireflyairlines and get your photos featured.
haziqnz
iamchefjo
haziqnz Fo r first timers like me, Penang of fers many exciting places to g o to which I never knew abou t before.
iamchefjo Late evening snackin’ in the air! Refreshment of apple juice with crunchy peanuts and a smooth landing. Thank you, Mr Captain and the crew!
ahmdeizza
jasonnaviation_
n
jasonnaviation_ Double orange on the ground by Firefly; enjoy the enthusiasm of Penang!
o see t it a w t ’ n a nC ahmdeizza olds. h e r u t u f e h what t