WK44A / MCI (P) 060/08/2013
WEEKENDER YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND filled with FUN AND HAPPINESS
August 9 - 15, 2013
THE ALL-
SINGAPORE issue
DELIVERED FREE TO YOUR HOME
ELECTRIFYING music
10
celebrating our nation
super shiok singapore food
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02 • WEEKENDER • august 9 - 15, 2013
VENTS
This week’s highlights
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
An a capella group is part of the entertainment
The New Zealand All Blacks rugby team
NATAS TRAVEL FAIR 2013:
Be dazzled by more than great packages 16-18 Aug, Fri-Sun, 10am to 9.30pm, daily, $4 (free for children below 12) This year, the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS) will be holding the NATAS Travel Fair next week at Singapore Expo. With 160 participating exhibitors for savvy Singaporean shoppers to choose from, you can expect the best bargains and great promotions! Don’t miss the great entertainment too: • New Zealand All Blacks – take a quiz and win
prizes with the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team • Eisa – a folk dance performed by a group of young enthusiastic artists from Okinawa Prefecture who have performed throughout Japan and Korea • Jump – a non-verbal performance with a winning combination of martial arts, comedy and more • Sirens – a five-member Taiwanese a capella group that is set to deliver a multilingual repertoire • Live Comedy Clu – comprising mainly amateur artists, they will entertain visitors with their fast moving, big-laugh routines
National Day Celebrations @ Esplanade 7-11 Aug, various times
Egyptian at Ramadan Until 8 Aug, 6.30-10.30pm daily, $38++ (Child), $68++ (Adult) This Ramadan, break your fast with a spread of cold and hot mezze (Middle Eastern dishes) items, grilled meats, seafood and other dishes prepared by guest chefs from Egypt. The dinner buffet includes free flow of selected juices, teh tarik and coffee tarik. Grand Hyatt Singapore, Straits Kitchen, 10 Scotts Road, Tel: 6732 1234, www.singapore.grand.hyatt.com
Pesta Raya 29 Aug - 1 Sep, various times & prices
Celebrate our nation's birthday at the Esplanade with music performances by Kevin Mathews, Bronzage, Hillary Francis and more. You can also take part in kampong games, art and craft workshops, face painting, and check out visual arts installations. Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Drive, www.esplanade.com/nationaldaycelebrations
The annual Malay Festival of Arts festival held during Singapore's Hari Raya Puasa features vibrant traditional and contemporary Malay arts by Malay artists worldwide, be it in dance, theatre or music. Don't miss acclaimed director Erma Fatima's special theatre play I Am... and a concert celebrating the music and life of Kartina Dahari, one of the most celebrated Malay singers in the 1960s and 1970s. You can also check out free events such as Wayang Kulit from Kelantan, wau (kite)-making workshops and performances by Orkestra Sri Temasek. Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Drive, www.pestaraya.com
Ms Jo Anne Sukumaran with the Bassoon
Ossia Music School is re-opening a new music centre and now offers vocal and bassoon classes, and more
Music for all ages Ossia Music School’s new main showroom and music centre at Beauty World Centre, Bukit Timah, will be officially launched on Aug 24, together with a slew of new and existing music programmes courses.
Lecturer Ms Jo Anne Sukumaran (Bassoon teacher) will be teaching you everything there is to know about this woodwind instrument from playing, reed-care, and even reed-making.
For Singing or Playing If you are not content with singing in the shower, pick up good singing techniques with Ossia’s new vocal classes. There are also courses in traditional Western (and soon Asian) musical instruments for the young and young at heart.
Discount for Seniors To cater to senior citizens, Ossia Music is offering a 20 per cent discount in leisure courses. Whatever musical instrument catches your fancy, or what your age is, Ossia Music School has something for you.
now on Check out these events over the next two weeks FREE! 1 Dimensional Society Until 14 Aug, 10am-6pm, except 1.30pm-2.30pm, closed on Mon & public holidays This exhibition explores dominant themes such as the perceptions of choice, with the use of beanbags, with collective Ban-Fam paying homage to Herbert Marcuse’s ideologies about a totalitarian society. A thought-provoking exhibition. Institute of Contemporary Arts Singapore, Lasalle College of the Arts, 1 McNally Street, Tel: 6496 5075, www.lasalle.edu.sg/ICAS NEW! $4.80 Specials at Atrium & Pacific Marketplace Until 11 Aug, all day Pan Pacific's Atrium and Pacific Marketplace are offering all-day long $4.80 specials. Have a halfpint of Tiger Beer, a Singapore Sling or a Raspberry
Celebrations! (Gardens by the Bay) Until 10 Nov, 9am-9pm, $8 (Child & Senior Citizen), $12 National Day will feature a floral display in red and white with flowers such as orchids, roses and begonias, and even the five stars of the national flag. Singapore residents also get a $4.80 discount on admission rates to the cooled conservatories until Aug 11. There will be themed floral displays until 1 Sep for Hari Raya, 9 Sep to 6 Oct for the Mid-Autumn Festival, and 14 Oct to 10 Nov for Deepavali as a tribute to the cultural festivals. Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive EVERYTHING BUT THE BRAIN 10-11 Aug, 16-21 Aug, 8pm (Tue-Fri); 3pm, 8pm (Sat & Sun), $35, $55 This comical play tells the story of a teacher who tries to turn back time to save her stroke-afflicted father from deteriorating further, egged on by three bears. She also meets a handsome surgeon along the way. This production premiered in 2005 to critical acclaim. DBS Arts Centre, 20 Merbau Rd, sightlines.com.sg, Tel: 9369 4369 NEW! FREE! Hari Raya Light Up and Celebrations 8 Aug, 6pm Watch the streets of Geylang Serai area light up with decorations and colourful lights for this year’s Hari Raya celebrations this year. Geylang Serai, Tel: 6251 4458 FREE! NEW! L_ost & Found - The Exhibition 14 Aug, 7.30-10pm This photo exhibition features some of Singapore's oldest or most iconic nightspots with 12 photographic works on the most unlikely objects, prints, textures and décor that have become a symbolic part of these establishments. Email info@typewriter.sg to be added to the guest list. Club Kyo, 133 Cecil Street, Keck Seng Tower, Tel: 8299 8735, www.clubkyo.com NEW! Kampong Glam national day celebrations 9-31 Aug, various times Kampong Glam Division residents in the MoulmeinKallang GRC can join in a National Day Observance Ceremony cum Healthy Walk (9 Aug), Kampong Glam National Day celebration dinner (10 Aug), block parties, and a Hari Raya celebration dinner. Various locations, www.kampongglam.org.sg FREE! NEW! Kampong Glam Tales 10 Aug, 10am-4pm Watch the Malay Heritage Centre come alive with stories in this interactive tour. Admission charges to the permanent galleries apply for the live performances. Email your contact details at NHB_MHC_Programmes@ nhb.gov.sg to register. Malay Heritage Centre, Sultan Gate, Tel: 6391 0450, www.malayheritage.org.sg National Day Weekend Special: State 9-10 Aug, $20-$25 (Includes one drink) Celebrate National Day and the long weekend at Kyo entertained by local DJs including Brendon P, Norman C and Shigeki, as Kyo holds two parties named “State”. 133 Cecil Street, www.clubkyo.com, Tel: 8299 8735 FREE! Official National Day Pub Crawl 8-9 Aug, 7.30pm, $35, $60, $99 WATSinside & Singapore Pub Crawl present the inaugural Official National Day Pub Crawl! Party in four happening bars and one club, with free shots galore and no cover charge. There will also be exclusive drink specials, party games, and you will get a limited edition Official National Day Pub Crawl T-shirt too. Email marketing@watsinside.com for tickets. 80 Raffles Place, Fat Pigeon Statue (UOB Plaza), www.watsinside.com, Tel: 6933 9901
Lecturer Aaron Khaledwho recently performed at the Vienna Music Festival
Unique Courses Those who like to veer off the beaten musical path should join the bassoon clinic and reed workshop.
= FREE
Visit www.ossia.sg or call 6469 5963 for more information.
Mascarpone Cheese Cupcake with either coffee or tea for $4.80. 7 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square, Tel: 6826 8240, www.panpacific.com ASIAN YOUTH ORCHESTRA CONCERT 13-14 Aug, 8pm, $15, $25, $35, $55 As part of their tour across Southeast Asia and East Asia, the acclaimed Asian Youth Orchestra will be playing in Singapore. Their repertoire for the tour will include Brahms Symphony No. 3, Beethoven Symphony No. 5, Sibelius Symphony No. 2 and Weber Der Freischutz Overture under the baton of Richard Pontzious and James Judd, and renowned British cellist Steven Isserlis will be joining the tour. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Drive, esplanade.com FREE! Chapel Market 8 & 9 Aug, 5-11pm Come to the only flea market at City Hall, where you can look forward to sumptuous food and great shopping deals under a sky of twinkling stars. CHIJmes, The Lawn, 30 Victoria Street, Tel: 6336 1818, www.chijmes.com.sg
PARTING GLANCES: Singapore’s Evolving Spaces Until 31 Aug, 10am-9pm (Mon-Sun), Closes on public holidays, & 5pm on eve of New Year, Chinese New Year & Christmas Kampong Lorong Buangkok, Seletar Camp, Pulau Ubin, People’s Park, MacPherson and Queenstown are iconic neighbourhoods on the verge of disappearing. Their stories will be told through words and pictures. The book will bee launched soon, and is reviewed on Pg 7. National Library, Level 7, Promenade, 100 Victoria Street NEW! Petite Menu: Maju Singapore Until 11 Aug, 12-11pm, Enjoy classic local dishes made with a global twist such as laksa bouillabaisse, risotto chicken rice, and bak kut teh at $48 nett per person. Aqueen Lavender Hotel, 139 Lavender Street, www.aqueenhotels.com, Tel: 6395 7782 FREE! Rainforest Tour 10 Aug, 9 & 11am (English), 10am & 4pm (Mandarin) Volunteer guides will tell you more about Singapore’s tropical rainforest in this one-hour tour. Register 15 minutes before the tour. First come, first serve. Singapore Botanic Gardens, Visitor Centre, Cluny Road, Tel: 6471 7361, sbg.org.sg The Flavours of Straits Chinese Buffet Until 11 Aug, various times, $46 (Lunch, Adult), $64 (Dinner, Adult), $68 (Sunday brunch, Adult) Celebrate National Day with this buffet where the second diner dressed in red can dine at $4.80. Savour the executive chef’s Tok Panjang dishes including dishes like King Crab Bakwan Kepiting and Lembu Rendang. Orchard Hotel, 442 Orchard Road, Tel: 6734 7766, www.orchardhotel.com.sg NEW! FREE! The Home Show 2013 Until 11 Aug, 12-10pm Check out the furniture or pick up a few cool pieces at the furniture fair by Asia Pacific Furniture over the National Day weekend. Singapore Expo Hall 7, 1 Expo Drive, www.apff.com.sg NEW! The Long Weekend - Majulah Massive 8-11 Aug, various times Over the National Day weekend, have brunch and dinner at Loof, OverEasy, Tanjong Beach Club and The White Rabbit as there will be special guest DJs each night. Check out their Facebook pages for details. Various locations
FREE! Singapore Shortcuts 10 & 11 Aug, 2pm Co-presented with The Substation Moving Images, it features a selection of recent Singapore short films and a rare collection of films showcased in the 1980s. National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, Tel: 6332 3659, www.nationalmuseum.sg
All events are correct at time of print.
WEEKENDER
FUN-TO-DO
IDEAS Coming Soon
Mark your calendars for these events coming very soon NEW! 4th Flute Festival Singapore 2013 23-26 Aug, 9am-10pm, $20-$50 The annual flute festival comprises master classes, workshops, a flute exhibition, competition and an orchestra performance. Visit www.flute.com.sg for tickets. The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, www.theartshouse.com.sg, Tel: 6332 6900 Metallica - Live In Singapore 24 Aug, 8pm, $148, $188 For the first time in 20 years, one of the most influential and successful rock bands, Metallica, is coming to Singapore. Their latest album Death Magnetic was certified platinum six weeks after it debuted at the top of the Billboard Top 200 in 2008. Shuttle buses to the venue ($5 per trip) will be provided for concert goers' convenience. Tickets from Sistic. Changi Exhibition Centre, 9 Aviation Park Road
Preview Choice event picks coming in a month or more Matchbox Twenty Live in Singapore 10 Nov, 8pm, $68, $98, $108 Matchbox Twenty will hold their first live concert in Singapore performing songs from their blockbuster album and classic hits. With more than 30 million records sold worldwide, the band has also earned accolades including five Grammy nominations. Tickets from Sistic. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, www.lushington.com
VOLUNTEER EVENTS Lend a hand or spend your time meaningfully FREE! NEW! Outreach with Senior Advocates 14 Aug, 11.30am-3.30pm YAH! (Young-At-Heart) Community College provides training, learning and volunteering opportunities to seniors. Volunteers are needed to pair up with Yah! seniors to do street outreach carrying a light-weight poster to promote the spirit of active ageing. Toa Payoh Hub, 460 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, www.yah.org.sg FREE! NEW! Street Sales for YFC Team We Build Rainbows 11 Aug, 2-6.30pm Spend a day of the National Day and Hari Raya weekend for a good cause, to help sell items such as Perler beads, key chains and badges island-wide for Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS), which is working with Citi-YMCA Youth for Causes (YFC) to raise funds and awareness of dyslexia. Island-wide, www.das.org.sg
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If you would like your event listed, please email the details and pictures (where applicable) to events@weekender.com.sg 2 weeks before your event date.
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August 9 - 15, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 03
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
SPECIAL FEATUR
Shop for quality
E
for your family These food products are of good quality and widely available too
C
ooking for your family is a luxury that not everyone can afford due to the busy lifestyle of Singaporeans today. So, when you do cook for your loved ones don’t scrimp on groceries and compromise on taste and quality. Invest in quality goods for you and your family. Here are some good products you that could easily get at any major retail outlet island-wide. Royal Umbrella Rice Royal Umbrella Rice has once again won the Gold Award at the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Award 2013. It has been awarded annually since 2004 in the rice category. Since its inception in 1986, Royal Umbrella has been Singaporean consumers’ choice for more than two decades. Royal Umbrella Rice remains a favourite with Singaporeans and is synonymous with quality with its deep aroma, soft and fluffy texture and heart-warming taste of wholesome goodness. Produced in Thailand, it is made of premium quality jasmine rice that is guaranteed to be of 100 per cent purity. The grains are selected from the best rice fields with advanced technology and processed under stringent procedures to ensure the highest standards. Royal Umbrella Rice only requires one rinse – a characteristic made possible by production processes that ensure the cleanliness of the rice. Royal Umbrella Rice is available at all major retail outlets. Golden Circle Canola Oil Make deep-frying healthier with Golden Circle Canola Oil. It is a healthier option and a versatile, cost-effective cooking oil. With its beneficial fat profile, neutral taste and light texture, it is ideal for everyday use in salad dressings, sauces and marinades. It also has a high heat-tolerance which also makes it suitable for baking, sautéing and deep-frying. Canola oil has the least saturated fat of any culinary oil – almost half that of olive oil – and is free of trans-fat and cholesterol.
Golden Circle Sunflower Oil Another healthy option when frying food is Golden Circle Sunflower Oil, a natural antioxidant with levels of Vitamin E. Vitamin E acts as a moisturiser and helps cells retain water. Sunflower oil also contains Vitamin B which is good for a healthy nervous system, good digestion and is great for producing energy. Lecithin is also present in sunflower oil, which helps to keep cholesterol levels low. This is possible because lecithin sticks to your nerve and cell linings and prevents fat and cholesterol from sticking to the cell. Golden Circle Oil is available at all major retail outlets.
Fortune Food produces a wide range of preservative-free, pasteurised tofu in a convenient, hygienic form Tofu is high in protein, Vitamin B and iron. Fortune Foods Traditional Chinese Tofu also contains Omega 3
Fortune Tofu A staple in Asian cooking, this soy-based product contains quality protein which makes it a great substitute for meat in a vegetarian diet. Fortune Food produces a wide range of preservative-free tofu that has become household favourites in Singapore. From the traditional Chinese tofu to Japanese tofu to even the fragrant egg tofu, Fortune Food produces a wide range of preservative-free, pasteurised tofu in a convenient, hygienic and contemporary form. Tofu is high in protein, Vitamin B and iron. It is also a good source of calcium, depending on the coagulant used. It is also low in fat and sodium. Get these quality products for a better, healthier meal for your family. W All these products are available in major retail outlets and supermarkets.
Royal Umbrella Rice once again won the Gold Award at the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Award 2013
“when you do cook for your loved ones, don’t scrimp on groceries and compromise on taste and quality.”
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04 • WEEKENDER • August 9 - 15, 2013
ASHION
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Today’s fashion is hip yet comfortable
NOW
Singapore THEN
Ladies’ Fashion:
Then & Now
Singaporeans’ fashion styles have evolved through the decades. How much has changed since independence?
Go Giant for
National Day
1960s Fashion was really exciting in the 1960s. That was when Western fashion was reintroduced to Singapore. Western-style dresses were brought into Singapore and the dresses were usually fastened with a zip at the back, and had a wispy waistline. Later, traditional clothing started adopting these designs. Sleeveless designs were also popular. Sleeveless cheongsams were usually worn by high society ladies, as well as those who were working in an office. It represented the wealth and status of the Chinese ladies. However, due to Singaporeans’ conservative nature, there were many styles of dressing that were often frowned upon by society. Men with long hair would often get in trouble with the police, mainly because they were often associated with hippies and drug-use.
Show your patriotism this National Day by donning Giant’s specially-designed apparel
Many fashion labels are holding special National Day discounts, and Giant takes it a notch further by incorporating our Independence Year, 1965, and aspects of Singapore into Gino, the house brand apparel by Giant with a wide range of clothes for Men, Ladies and Kids. For this National Day, Gino
Fashion is a way to express our personality. Some of us dress loud and bright, while others prefer to be more conservative in sticking to safer and neutral-coloured clothes. Our parents had their own style of dressing back in the day. Let’s see how things have changed.
has created a line of speciallydesigned National Day apparel. “I LOVE SG” and our iconic air force performance every National Day Parade will be featured on this affordable yet trendy range that is suitable for everyone. These new and exclusive designs are made of 100 per cent cotton for maximum comfort and come in S to XL sizes, and can be worn by men, women or kids. Buy a set of Giant’s National Day apparel for your family, friends, or your other half to celebrate our nation’s birthday this year. These clothes are fashionable and apt for National Day week. They won’t burn a whole in your pocket too. The prices all end with 48 cents, same as Singapore’s age. Get yours, and wear your national pride.
By Lee Li Ying
If Grandma had her way, she would probably be rubbing boiled eggs on our bruises to make the swelling go down, or making us chug down the homemade tonic of Milo with raw egg, that is supposedly better than Red Bull. These homemade local cures might make us laugh, or feel a little queasy, but do some of the well-loved (and frequently practiced) remedies really work the way we think they do? AXE BRAND UNIVERSAL OIL As its name might suggest, Axe Brand Oil is a potent-smelling little bottle of medicated oil. It is everybody’s go-to remedy for, well, everything. Axe Brand Oil is used on the temples to cure a pounding headache, on the tummy for stomachaches, on a pesky insect bite to alleviate the itching, and as a remedy to a whole assortment of other maladies. A check revealed that its active ingredients are menthol and camphor, both local anaesthetics with counter-irritant qualities that have been traditionally used to treat coughs and inflammations. It is no surprise that they are highly prized for their medicinal properties.
This tiny bottle is budgetfriendly medication that packs a punch. I will definitely keep one handy. TIGER BALM Another traditional remedy that my Grandma swears by is her jar of Tiger Balm. With a soothing scent of camphor, this unassuming white ointment has similar qualities and is used in a similar fashion as with the Axe Brand Oil. Tiger Balm is best for relieving overstrained muscles and arthritic pains. Apparently, Tiger Balm is so effective that it has a huge following overseas as well. Hollywood star Gwyneth Paltrow and pop diva Lady Gaga supposedly both swear by it, with the latter having declared that it is a “backstage must-have” on her Twitter page. Its new products, Tiger Balm Active and Tiger Balm Junior, are made especially for fitness-conscious and younger consumers. BOILED COKE WITH GINGER The sweet taste of coke does sound more palatable than your average cough syrup. However, downing boiled carbonated soft drinks as a remedy seems at least counterintuitive when you are down with a painful cough and sore throat.
1990s Fashion trends started to pick up even further from the 1990s.
2000s onward Singapore has been on a fashion roller coaster from the year 2000. We’ve seen many different trends such as skinny jeans and cropped tops, and a million others. Nevertheless, our warm and humid weather has imposed some deterrents upon Singaporeans. Thus, Singaporeans have deemed fit to dress casually in Bermuda shorts, t-shirts, and flip flops wherever they would go, prompting the impression of sloppiness in the eyes of foreigners. In recent years, Singaporeans have been growing more and more conscious of how they dress. Slowly but surely, we have become known as one of the cities with the best fashion sense in the world. Last year, Singapore was ranked 19 in the Global Language Monitor’s annual ranking of the Top 50 Fashion Capitals. It appears we have come full circle and we are once more known as a fashionable people. W Some information was obtained from singaporepopculture-fashion. blogspot.sg as well as the National Museum of Singapore. The classic cheongsam has been modernised
THEN NOW
Singapore Style:
Singapore remedies:
Do these classic remedies really work, or are they a bunch of myths? We check out three
1980s Everything got bigger and brighter in the 1980s. With the introduction of technology and broader mass media, ideas were shared much more easily. Overseas fashion came to Singapore in greater strength, partly influenced by popular culture on TV. The fashions of pop stars seen on TV and in magazines were emulated by many youths. Singaporean designers mixed and matched different styles to come up with one that suited locals. Clothing that was more practical, stylish, and comfortable was very popular as everybody wanted to work. Career became more important to many Singaporeans at that point of time as a recession hit Singapore badly. Signature 1980s designs included pastel colours, as well as extremely baggy pants tapered into narrow ankles.
Casual wear such as Bermuda shorts were also introduced to Singaporeans, and quickly adopted to battle the warm and humid weather. Large departmental stores also arrived in Singapore, giving Singaporeans lots of choices. Local designers tried to incorporate overseas designs with Singaporean style. The cheongsam soon became a symbol of power, and not of wealth and career, and was worn during formal occasions.
1970s One major change in Singapore after independence was in the
HEALTH & BEAUTY
From the old wives
airline industry. As MalaysiaSingapore Airlines split, Singapore needed a new uniform for its flight attendants. The Sarong Kebaya rose to the occasion and was re-designed with especially brightly-patterned batik. For a period, it was almost seen as the national costume. Throughout the 1970s, many new brands were introduced, such as Levis, and the jeans culture here kicked off. Many of the fashion styles around the world were not adopted here as they were still too “extreme” and were largely not accepted by many Singaporeans.
Wear your patriotism
A guide to donning the nation's colours in your makeup, and wearing your patriotism
Sam Fong Hoi Tong Powder was used to remove fine facial hair, or as a whitening face powder
By Lee Li Ying Does the Chinese principle of “fighting poison with poison” really work? While boiling the coke serves to do nothing to its original constituent ingredients and merely de-carbonates the drink, the ginger serves as a pain reliever. As a stimulant and antiinflammatory herb, ginger works wonderfully to boost a compromised immune system and to send you on the way to recovery. Boiling the ginger with coke is probably Grandma’s way of masking its strong and spicy taste, and persuading the younger ones to take to the remedy with greater ease. Ingenious! W
“...Grandma’s way of masking its strong and spicy taste...”
Come Aug 9, the streets will once again be awash in a tide of red and white. While the surge of patriotism will probably compel you to dress in our nation's colours, like many others, there are simple ways to stand out. Weekender shows you how you can merge national pride with effortless style. SINGAPORE THROUGH YOUR EYES The eyes are the windows to one's soul, and certainly the most befitting way you can communicate passion and ardour. If you are game for something a little more adventurous, have fun with this daring palette of red and white. A deviation from the usual choices of black or brown for sure; the dab of white in the centre of your eyelids serves to perk up the eyes. If you are going for a little less drama yet a look you can wear to the afterparty, post-Marina Bay fireworks, give this revamped rocker-chic look a chance. The bright red outlined by heavily-lidded black communicates sophisticated sensuality without being too overwhelming. A safer yet nonconventional approach is to give red eyeliner a go. Despite reservations about
its wear-ability off the runway, it is an exciting alternative to the conventional black-rimmed eyes. What better day to give it a go than on our nation's birthday? The trick is to make sure that the lines drawn are thick and clean, and to keep the red off your lower eye line. Smudged red eyeliner or a tinge of red on the bottom lids can make you look as if you have just emerged from a boxing match. To create a cleaner contrast, consider highlighting your waterline with a hint of black before experimenting with the red eyeliner. LIPS DON'T LIE If you are not a fan of dramatic eye colours, let your lips do the talking. True to this season's iconic look, a bright poppy red
on a neutral base is one of the easiest and quickest ways to jazz up your lips. A perfectly painted pout adds immediate sass and sophistication in seconds. Pay more than lip service to Singapore by glossing on a fierce shade of patriotic red. NATION ON YOUR NAILS Beautifully manicured nails speak volumes about one's personal grooming and sense of style. Pay tribute to the nation's birthday with beautiful nail art that you can wear for weeks. To suit the celebratory mood, try a French manicure with a twist. The striking red tips make an interesting fashion statement that is versatile enough for work and school. Those who are more adept with their fingers can consider experimenting with stars and crescents on a red base. Embody Singapore this year.
August 9 - 15, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 05
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
HEALTH & BEAUT
Level up
with vitamins
Holland & Barrett ABC Plus multi-vitamins
Multi-vitamins help us to get the nutrition that we miss out in our regular diets
We may have an abundance of food in Singapore and we are becoming increasingly picky about what we consume. Nonetheless, sometimes, in the food we consume, we may miss out on essential vitamins and minerals that our bodies need. Multi-vitamin supplements are a good way to ensure that your body gets everything it needs. Although multi-vitamins cannot replace a healthy and wellbalanced diet, they certainly can help fill in the gaps. What Are Multi-Vitamins? Multi-vitamins are organic compounds that are needed by the body in varying small amounts to sustain life, ensure correct body function and maintain health. These should be obtained from our diet. A lack of a particular vitamin or mineral results in the malfunctioning of the body and, in severe cases, a deficiency with severe consequences. Multi-vitamins and mineral supplements usually come in all-in-one, one-a-day, convenient capsules containing a mixture of essential vitamins and minerals. Many people assume that they are standard preparation but, in fact, different brands can vary greatly in the quality, range and strength of the vitamins and minerals. Holland & Barrett stocks a wide
range of combinations in order to meet the varied requirements of differing customers. Who Should Take MultiVitamins? Often those who supplement their diets so as not to miss out on any required nutrients are some of the main consumers of multi-vitamins. However, those who have a poor diet or are on a weight loss plan should take multivitamins as well, to ensure good health. Holland & Barrett’s Ultra Woman and Ultra Man contain different sets of vitamins catered to both genders. Ultra Woman contains Iron, which contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and haemoglobin, while Ultra Man contains Saw Palmetto, which protects the prostate gland. Elderly customers who have a reduced absorption of some vitamins and minerals such as B12, Vitamin D and calcium should also take the relevant
Holland & Barrett Ultra Woman daily multi-vitamins
Y Holland & Barrett Ultra Man daily multi-vitamins
“...we may miss out on essential vitamins and minerals that our bodies need.”
supplements as needed. Holland & Barrett’s ABC Plus supplements provide all-round nutritional support for adults in a one-aday caplet. Who Shouldn’t Take MultiVitamins? Of course, there is no one-sizefits-all vitamin and too much of a good thing can be bad at times. Should you have pre-existing medical conditions that require a doctor’s care, please check with your doctor before taking any supplement. Pregnant women wishing to consume preformed Vitamin A should seek the doctor’s advice before doing so. Diabetics and the hypoglycemic should also only use multivitamins and mineral supplements under a doctor’s supervision because they contain chromium, which may affect insulin sensitivity and may affect blood glucose levels. Please also note: All supplements containing
preformed Vitamin A (Retinol) are best avoided by those who regularly eat liver and products made from liver. Consider buying multi-vitamins you need from Holland & Barrett, as quality matters. W
ATIONAL DAY FEATURE
Photo: Hewlett Packard Singapore
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06 • WEEKENDER • August 9 - 15, 2013
word sEARCHES used to be a popular way for Singaporeans to entertain themselves. Here is our local version with Singaporean lingo
Dr JiaJia & BigBro
we speak to some true-blue Singaporeans that are YouTube sensations
Wah!Banana Aaron, Jason, and Janice of Wah!Banana have the third most subscribed YouTube channel in Singapore with over 100,000 subscribers and over 9 million views. In their comedy clips, they poke fun at and stereotype people and situations that Singaporeans are familiar with in their day to day lives. Their brand of humour is observational and their exaggerated stereotypes strike a chord in us. Check out “17 types of Singaporean couples” and “20 ways to break up” among others. Dr Jiajia & BigBro’s Show When Chua Jin Chou, or “Big Brother”, was ten years old, he chose Speak Good English as his topic to participate in a videography competition. Unfortunately, his video was rejected due to a late submission. Fortunately for Singaporeans, his father uploaded his video onto YouTube. After a year, he and his little
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Singlish Word Search
Singapore “Celebs”: Locals rocking YouTube youtube celebrities such as Ryan Higa were swarmed by adoring fans when they came for the recent Social Star Awards. The following home-grown talents are also YouTube stars in their own right.
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
Action AgakAgak Arbuthen Alamak Atas Basket BuayTahan Botak ChaoKeng
Chio Chope Dowan Garang Goondu Hantam JiaLat Kancheong Kaypo
Kayu Kena Kiasu Kopitiam Lepak Lobang MahFan Makan Malu
Mata NehMind Obiang Pangseh PekChek Sabo Salah Sayang Shiok
Sian Siao Sekali Sotong Steady Stone Suan Ulu
brother Jin Sen, nicknamed “Dr JiaJia”, made some Singlish videos to amuse themselves when they got bored. The siblings shot to fame after their Singlish videos in which Jin Sen acted as Singlish Minister went viral in 2012. He is now the face for the Dyslexic Association of Singapore as he is dyslexic. Ryan Sylvia What started out as producing YouTube videos “for fun and to practice editing and cinematography” for a married pair of videographers became something that earned them over 50,000 subscribers, and videos with almost 5 million views. Their clips have a style similar to that of Wah!Banana, drawing from day to day life to depict stereotypes such as “Sh*t Singaporean Boyfriends (and Girlfriends) Say”, “11 Reasons Why Singaporeans Complain”, and even a mock fight in “Cantonese vs Hokkien”. These videos poke fun at Singaporean behaviour in selfdeprecating fashion. What would they like to say to all Singaporeans? “Enjoy every little thing in life for, one day, you will look back and realise they were the big things,” they say.
In the olden days, the coast of Singapore was infested with ferocious swordfish
Singapore Heritage: Clans Uniting Singaporeans
Photo: Bukit Merah: From a hilly kampong to a modern town, Federal Publications, 1996
Kong Chow Wui Koon moved to its current building in 1924
Clan associations may seem foreign to the younger generation, but they are the bedrock of local Chinese heritage By Chia Hui Jun The Hokkien Huay Kuan, circa 1972
Singapore legend:
Red Hill Ever wondered about the reason behind the name of a place? We present the Singaporean legend of Red Hill Singapore has many intriguing folk legends that not everyone may know about. Many of the places we see or have been to obtained their names from these stories. In our National Day issue, we explore the dramatic legend of Red Hill. Swordfish Infestation Back in the olden days, the coast of Singapore was infested with ferocious swordfish. These swordfish would attack anyone who went near the shore. The deadly fish struck fear in the hearts many villagers and fishermen, and many of them became too terrified to go near the sea. The villagers consulted the Sultan but even the royal army was no match for the fierce attacks of the swordfish. The Little boy’s Idea One day, a little boy had a plan and he proposed it to the Sultan. His daring plan was to build a wall made of banana tree trunks along the coast. The swordfish beaks would pierce the banana tree trunks and be embedded in them when they attack.
“Even the royal army was no match for the fierce attacks of the swordfish.” The army wasted no time and immediately built the wall of banana tree trunks. Indeed, as the boy had predicted, the swordfish leapt out of the water, only to be stuck in the tree trunks. At once, the royal army took advantage of their predicament and slayed all the swordfish. Once again, peace and security had been restored. Fatal Jealousy The little boy soon grew popular among the villagers and army. This caused the Sultan to become jealous of the boy. Fearing that this fame would threaten his position as the Sultan, he despatched his soldiers to get rid of the boy. Climactic Conclusion The soldiers eventually found the boy living on top of a hill. Armed
with swords, they entered his house. When the boy sensed what was going to happen, it was too late. The cold-hearted soldiers cut through the boy with their blades. The boy’s blood gushed out and flowed profusely, down the hill. Within moments, the entire hill was bathed in red. From then on, the entire hill and its vicinity has been known as Red Hill (or Bukit Merah in Malay) due to its red soil, and in memory of the tragic boy hero. This is just one of the many interesting legends of Singapore. Why don’t you tell us, which is your favourite legend? To tell us your favourite local legend, like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/weekendersgp then post your comment on our wall.
What do Tao Nan School and Ai Tong School have in common, besides being popular primary schools? They were started by the Hokkien Huay Kwan back when public resources and funding were scarce. Clan associations may be fading out of public consciousness today, especially with the younger generation, but their societal contributions such as Tan Tock Seng Hospital remain. They are a treasure trove of our founding fathers’ history, and preserve traditional Chinese values. Origin of Clan Associations When waves of Chinese immigrants arrived on Singapore shores in the 1800s, hoping to carve out a better future, they banded together to foster kinship and allay feelings of isolation and homesickness. These Chinese immigrants formed clans based on geographical ties, kinship (surname) or trade. Four major groups of locality-based clan associations emerged Fujian, Guangdong, Hainan and Sanjiang, with the same or related family names. However, if grouped along dialect lines, there are the Hokkien, Cantonese, Teochew, Hakka, and Cantonese/ Hakka clans (which speak both Cantonese and Hakka). As they expanded, they went beyond helping members
in their daily lives and needs to setting up schools, hospitals and aiding in charity efforts, bringing much prosperity to the Chinese community. Hokkien: Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan The largest of the clan associations, Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan set up six schools since 1849, and also donated land for the Nanyang University (today’s Nanyang Technological University) campus. Besides education, they also have an active art and culture troupe conducting cultural classes and workshops in performing arts, calligraphy and Chinese language. 137 Telok Ayer Street, #08-01/03, Singapore 068602
Cantonese: Kong Chow Wui Koon Kong Chow is the old name for the Xinhui district in Guangdong. In Singapore, Cantonese is the third most spoken dialect and this association, Kong Chow Wui Koon, is famous for its martial arts and local bicycle acrobatic team. Its building still stores antique furniture and historical relics since the Japanese Occupation, so swing by to check them out if you’re in the area. 321 New Bridge Road, Singapore 088758 Teochew: The Huilai Countrymen Association Huilai is one of the ten districts of the Chaozhou prefecture, and there were many Hui Lai clansmen in post-war Singapore. The Huilai Countrymen Association was set up in 1947 for the clansmen to keep in touch and to work together for their welfare. 23B Teo Hong Road, Singapore 088332 Hakka: Ying Fo Fui Kun Started by the Khek or Hakka immigrants from five districts of the Guangdong province, Ying Fo Fui Kun is the only clan organisation in Singapore which has remained in its original premises until today. They organise social programmes, celebrate Chinese festivals and foster social ties with overseas Khek communities. 98 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 048474
“They are a treasure trove of our founding fathers’ history, and preserve traditional Chinese values.”
August 9 - 15, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 07
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
NATIONAL DAY FEATUR Singapore Book: Building a time-travel machine with images
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A review of Parting Glances: Singapore’s Evolving Spaces, by Craig McTurk By Frank Young experiences of the residents in areas such as Kampong Lorong Buangkok, Seletar Camp, Pulau Ubin and People’s Park. There is something magical about pictorial books – especially if they capture minute details of ordinary people and lives. The Lions XII team is ecstatic after their Malaysian Super League victory
Singapore
victory! Recently crowned champions of the Malaysian Super League, the Lions XII continue their winning streak. We speak with V Sundramoorthy, coach and legend By Chia Hui Jun & LESTER J WAN On Jul 2, in front of a Singaporean home crowd at the Jalan Besar Stadium, a young Lions XII football team sealed a historic victory against Felda United (of Malaysia) with a 4-0 thumping to clinch the Malaysian Super League (MSL) championship. V Sundramoorthy, coach and legend, shares with us on what made it special and how the winning streak continues. A Special Win What made the win sweeter was that the Lions XII team mostly consisted of players aged 23 and below, who were competing in a league of professionals and stars. The last time Singapore had won the Malaysian Premier League, and Cup, was with the legendary class of 1994. Since then, Singapore had not competed in the Malaysian league until recently. 2013 & 1994 Most Singaporeans who have been following the national team for some time will undoubtedly compare the two wins. Coach Sundram is succinct but clear. He says, “The difference is that we have won the MSL with young players.” “I’m proud of their dedication, commitment, desire and winning mentality,” he adds. Best Moments Sundram’s best moment this season was when the Lions XII came from a goal down to beat Terengganu 2-1. It was certainly a hard-fought win. He counts “winning the MSL with the Lions XII at the Jalan Besar Stadium with the support of our home fans” as his favourite footballing moment. Even Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong was present to cheer them on. Win After Win The Singapore Under-23s’ winning streak did not stop there as they went on to win 1-0 in a friendly match against Indonesia on Jul 13. This win was also significant as it was a young team of 24 players aged 23 and below who have to juggle school and National Service commitments. The team was put together to prepare for December’s SEA Games in Myanmar. Bright Future Sundram lists Faris Ramli, Shahfiq Ghani, Nazrul Nazari, Hafiz Abu Sujad, Aqhari Abdullah and Izzdin Shafiq as up and coming players to look out for, as they stood out this season. “We have many young players coming up the ranks, and the future looks bright,” says Sundram. Being one of Singapore’s most skilful players ever, who does “the Dazzler” think is the most skilful player now? Sundram singles out captain and talisman Shahril Ishak as the most skilful national player currently. This National Day, we wish Sundram and the team all the best. May they continue to do Singapore proud. W
V Sundramoorthy, coach of the Lions XII and national Under-23 teams
A GIFT TO THE FUTURE Time-travelling through images is only possible if someone took the time and effort to take the photos, which become gifts from the past for all in the future. For the past five years, Craig McTurk has been photo-documenting six neighbourhoods and their residents as they evolve under relentless modernisation. From Kampong Melayu, Pulau Ubin’s Malay enclave, to Mr Kwan Wan Lien, 84, the antique restorer in MacPherson, each chapter documents deep personal
A WORK OF PASSION Inspired by an article on the last kampong in Singapore, McTurk embarked on this journey to document the evolving social-scape of these disappearing neighbourhoods. Five years in the making and with over 2,000 photos, McTurk wanted to “tell a story of how a country has evolved so dramatically”. He would spend countless mornings and afternoons exploring the neighbourhoods and capturing the right moments to amass these volumes of images. In order to connect with older local residents and to penetrate the language barrier, McTurk had either Malay-speaking or dialect-speaking
assistants to go out with him. GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN The Pulau Ubin section is most poignant for me as it highlights an area that is “poised to fade away entirely with the passing of the current generation”. McTurk profiles many of the residents, giving us insight into what life is like. Mr Chen Liang Ji, who grows his own Chinese medicinal herbs, says, “It’s really good living here. I’m healthy and illnessfree.” These pictures and stories that McTurk has assembled will remain forever, waiting for future generations to rediscover the value of what once was. Parting Glances: Singapore’s Evolving Spaces, Craig McTurk, ORO Editions, $49.95
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08 • WEEKENDER • august 9 - 15, 2013
OODMANIA
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Singaporean
or not? Ever wondered if your favourite food truly originates from Singapore? Here’s your answer
Bak Kut Teh Bak Kut Teh was brought to Singapore by our forefathers from China. In those days, the Chinese would usually have the dish for breakfast. A bowl of pork bone soup and a cup of tea would provide workers with an energy boost before starting a day of hard work. There are a few variations of
$4.80 buffet at
Shangri-La The Line at Shangri-La Hotel is offering a special buffet promotion this National Day With the slew of National Day promotions in malls and hotels, Shangri-La is joining the fray with a $4.80 buffet at The Line. $4.80 for Third Diner From now until Aug 31, dine at The Line with two other friends and the third diner only pays $4.80. This is valid for lunch or dinner if the third diner is accompanied by two adults paying the full buffet price. Wide Variety of Dishes The Line has 16 theatre kitchens to serve a spread of popular international and local specialty dishes to guests. For National Day, expect to indulge in familiar favourites such as Singaporean Laksa, Hainanese Chicken Rice or Seafood Char Kway Teow.
Of course, The Line’s signature items such as freshly shucked oysters, Indian tandoori and the salad bar will still be offered. The lunch buffet costs from $49 per adult, and $26 per child. The dinner buffet is priced from $72 per adult, and $36 per child. The offer is only available for online bookings, so make your reservation online at www. shangri-la.com/singapore/ shangrila/dining/restaurants/theline/book-a-table now to avoid disappointment.
Singaporeans often say that local Singaporean food is always the best. This notion has been reinforced time and again, including when our “hawker heroes” faced off against Michelin-starred chef, Gordon Ramsay. However, is all our local food truly local? The debate rages on for some. Here is more on some of the favourite Singaporean dishes.
Local food chains are aplenty in malls but some have ventured overseas. Here are some Singapore food chains flying the flag By CHIA HUI JUN
Shangri-La Hotel, The Line, 22 Orange Grove Rd, Singapore 258350, Tel: 6213 4275
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ingapore is renowned for its dizzying array of food from different races, communities and countries. Here are some popular food store chains with a rich history, and even an international presence.
Old Chang Kee Old Chang Kee is well known for their yummy Hainanese-style curry puffs filled with curried potatoes, herbs and spices, as well as their fried snacks. Few people today realise its humble beginnings as a stall at Koek Road in 1956. The stall was later moved to Mackenzie Road near Rex Cinema, and it was so popular that they became known as Rex curry puffs. During its heyday, 700 curry
evolution Recently, we’ve seen many new ice cream parlours. How much has ice cream changed over the years?
By Cleon Ong
In the beginning Indeed, ice cream has a long history. Ice cream started off as a simple flavoured ice pop. Vendors would freeze soft drinks such as Coke and Sprite to make ice pop. Although these ice pops are hardly seen nowadays, certain convenience stalls still stock them. Rainbow Bread Then, wafer ice cream was introduced to Singapore. A rectangular block of ice cream is sandwiched between two wafer biscuits. It may sound simple but it is certainly satisfying, especially on warm days. With flavours such as Raspberry, Yam, Durian, and Chocolate Mint, you’d be sure to find a flavour that satisfies you. Today, there are still ice cream vendors with cycle-carts who sell ice cream in a wafer. Shortly after, bread was also used apart from the wafer biscuit. To make it more attractive and tasty for consumers, colouring and sweeteners were used in the bread. Ice Cream on a Stick Around the same time, the brand
“Ice Potong” was also introduced to Singapore. The ice cream comes in a rectangular block mounted on a wooden stick. Flavours such as Red Bean, Yam, and Chendol suited local tastes and it quickly became one of Singaporeans’ favourite ice creams, even until today. 25-cent Ice Cream Next came ice cream in cones, mainly from fast food chains. Fast food outlets began selling ice cream cones. There was even a period of time when McDonald’s sold soft-serve ice cream cones for a mere $0.25 each. These soft-serve ice cream cones can be easily found at the many fast food outlets in Singapore. Apart from fast food chains, individual ice cream vendors also started selling ice cream cones. Root beer float For those who are old enough, do you remember when A&W was in Singapore? The American fast food chain is famous for its delicious Coney Dog, Curly Fries, Waffles with Ice Cream and, of course, the A&W Root Beer Float. A mug of root beer with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, the A&W Root Beer Float was a match made in heaven. Sadly, A&W restaurants can’t be found in Singapore any longer. Nonetheless, the root beer float can be found in many Western restaurants. If you are craving for A&W food or Root Beer Float, you can drive across the Causeway when you have the time. Hot Ice Cream? What about deep-fried ice cream? These were usually sold in Western food stalls and restaurants. The ice cream is coated with flour and bread,
Indian Rojak Although the name may suggest that the dish came from India, Indian Rojak is actually a creation of the early Indian immigrants of Singapore. They got the idea from street vendors who sold snacks. This inspired the Indians to do something similar. With the addition of a delicious sauce, they created the Indian rojak. Indian Rojak started off with a few simple flour snacks. But to attract the Chinese and Malay community, a wide variety of snacks such as prawn crackers and fish balls were introduced. Many expat Indians do not know about the existence of Indian rojak. Laksa There are many variations of the Laksa dish, such as Penang Laksa and Sarawak Laksa. But where exactly did laksa come from? As the different names may suggest, Laksa originated from various cities. So far, there has
been no confirmation of where exactly laksa originated from. One thing’s for sure, Singaporeans have our own delicious version. In the competition against Chef Gordon Ramsay, 328 Katong Laksa emerged the winner. From the rich taste of coconut milk to mildly spicy broth and tasty ingredients, Singapore Laksa is popular with both locals and foreigners. Chilli Crab Whenever someone asks what Singapore’s most iconic dish is, most would say, Chilli Crab. As much as other countries may want to claim this dish as their creation, Chilli Crab is without a doubt uniquely Singaporean. The creator of Chilli Crab was Madam Cher Yam Tian. She started off cooking Chilli Crab by cooking it with chilli and tomato sauce. It did not contain any egg or sambal chilli in the sauce, unlike the modern version. This recipe was modified by Dragon Phoenix Restaurant. The sauce is both sweet and spicy, with bits of egg. Chilli Crab is best enjoyed with Fried Man Tou (fried bun) to soak up the sauce and to be eaten together. If you have friends coming to Singapore, the Chilli Crab is a must try!
Check out Singapore food chains
The ice cream As Singaporeans, food is definitely something that is always on our minds. No matter where we go or what we do, we’ll try to find the best bite. But have you ever wondered how some of our favourite food came to be? Almost all Singaporeans love ice cream, no matter the flavour or brand. Sometimes, we may crave for the more pricey ones such as Ben & Jerry’s or Haagen Dazs. We bring you the ‘evolution’ of ice cream, for all you ice cream lovers.
Bak Kut Teh. The Teochew version has a peppery soup base, whereas the Cantonese version has a herbal soup base. However, in the recent years, Malaysia has been competing with Singapore over the dish, claiming that Bak Kut Teh is a dish of Malaysian origin.
and then deep fried. At the end, you get a hot and crispy coating wrapped around the cold and delicious ice cream. Ice Cream in the Present Nowadays, ice cream parlours can be found all over Singapore. Everyone is finding new ways to improve the ice cream experience. New flavours such as Gula Melaka, Lychee Sorbet, Pulut Hitam, and many others, continue to delight Singaporeans. Many also go for add-ons and have ice cream with brownies, pancakes, waffles and so on. All these ice cream shops popping up, and never-ending new flavours, show that there are myriad ice cream options for Singaporeans, and the future of ice cream in Singapore remains bright. Will there be new ice cream inventions or innovations in the future? Only time will tell. Meanwhile, why not get your licks at your nearest ice cream store?
“Flavours such as Red Bean, Yam, and Chendol suited local tastes...”
puffs were sold daily. Bread Talk Bread Talk needs no introduction, with countless outlets in malls island-wide, and with an impressive presence in 11 other countries. Founded in the year 2000, Bread Talk has become a household name, and has also made successful international forays into the restaurant and food atrium businesses with Din Tai Fung, RamenPlay, Food Republic, Toast Box and more. Its signature breads and buns include its bestselling floss bun [with pork floss], and curry dozo, which has chicken, potato and carrot packaged in a golden crisp crust. Crystal Jade Crystal Jade began as a Cantonese fine-dining restaurant in Cairnhill Hotel over two decades ago. It has since added Teochew and Shanghainese food to its menu. Having made inroads internationally, it is no surprise that they also have adventurous “crossover” dishes on their menu such as Deep-Fried Chicken with Black Truffle, which uses a combination of Western and Eastern ingredients. Sakae Sushi Sakae stands for “growth” in Japanese, and sounds similar to sake, the Japanese rice wine. Remarkably, it was started during the 1997 economic crisis as its founder, Douglas Foo, saw a niche market for kaiten (conveyor belt) sushi at affordable, mass-market prices. He came up with this idea after
frequenting Japanese restaurants with his wife, who liked Japanese food. The business took off, and he wanted to turn it into the “McDonalds of sushi”, worldwide. Today, branches can be found in China and Malaysia. Killiney Kopitiam Formerly known as Kheng Hoe Heng Coffeeshop, Killiney Kopitiam was established by a Chinese immigrant from Hainan. Back then, it was famous for wellbrewed coffee and charcoal-grilled white bread toast. A regular customer, also a businessman, bought over the coffee shop from the retiring owners in order to preserve the Hainanese heritage. After renovation, he renamed the place “Killiney Kopitiam”, which has since been listed as the “oldest existing Hainanese coffee shop”, with branches in Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Australia. Instead of searching for new eateries, why not check out these global Singaporean chains?
Toast is a common breakfast or snack food, usually with kaya
RECIPE
Chilli Crab
Chilli Crab is the favourite dish of many Singaporeans. With this recipe, you can try to replicate the mouth-watering delicacy For many, Chilli Crab is the best of the best of Singaporean food, the favourite of favourites, the crowning glory of local cuisine. The delicious sauce and tender crab meat always leave us craving for more. With a long weekend, you’ll have time to try making your very own chilli crab for your family to enjoy.
Ingredients • 2 medium-sized crabs • 1 piece of ginger, chopped • 5 cloves of garlic, chopped • 2 pieces of chilli, chopped • 4 tablespoons of tomato sauce • 2 tablespoons of chilli sauce • 2 tablespoons of sugar • 1 teaspoon of corn starch • 1 egg, beaten • 1 cup of water • 1 stalk of parsley • 1 tablespoon of oil
Preparation
1. Wash the whole crab with a brush under slow running water
2. Cut the crab into four pieces 3. Mix the corn starch with a little bit of water
Method
1. Heat up the wok and put in 1 tablespoon of oil when heated. 2. Pour in the chopped ginger, garlic and chilli into the oil. Fry them until they become fragrant. 3. Put the crab in the wok and stir-fry it for about 5 minutes. 4. Pour 1 cup of water into the wok. 5. Pour the tomato sauce, chili sauce and sugar into the wok. 6. Cover the wok and simmer the crab for about 10 minutes. The crab should turn red. 7. Pour in the corn starch water and slowly stir the wok to spread out the corn starch evenly. 8. Add in the beaten egg and switch off the fire once the egg is cooked. 9. Dish out the crab and the sauce into a deep bowl and garnish it with the parsley.
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august 9 - 15, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 09
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FOODMANI
Selegie, Rochor and Lao Ban. Kway Chap Many would baulk at the thought of eating pig innards, but kway chap has become so commonplace that we don’t think twice about eating pig intestines, skin, pork belly, stomach and even ears. Timing is important, and good hawkers know how to cook the offal perfectly, and then serve with kway (broad rice noodles) in tasty broth.
Our favourite
Singaporean
Bak Chor Mee This simple Southern Chinese Teochew dish consists of vinegar, minced meat, noodles and a sauce made up of chilli, vinegar, soy sauce and pepper, so it is spicy and pungent at the same time. Fresh ingredients – something Teochews pride themselves on – such as egg noodles of good quality and the right balance of chilli and vinegar make a good dish of bak chor mee.
makan Singaporean food is a source of national passion and pride. We look at some of Singaporeans’ favourites
The recent food festivals in Singapore, and even Gordon Ramsay coming to put our hawker heroes to the test, are testament to the passion for and pride in our local Singaporean food. Our multi-cultural society of Chinese, Malay, Indian, Eurasian and Peranakan and more ensure a great variety of dishes for us to choose from for every meal. Here are a number of Singaporeans’ favourite dishes that you should acquaint or reacquaint yourself with.
Chilli Crab In the 1950s, Madam Cher Yam Tian lived in an attap house with her husband, Mr Lim, who would catch crabs from the beach. Once, he requested that she cook the dish differently, so she stir-fried the crabs with tomato sauce, then chilli sauce. Today, chilli crab has become premium hawker food with eggs, sambal and spices. It is unofficially Singapore’s national dish, and is listed in CNN Go’s “World’s 50 most delicious food”.
Satay The term “Satay” is actually derived from the Tamil word “sathai”, which means “flesh”. Chinese-style satay has a zebra crossing pattern of lean meat and fat, with Chinese “five spices” in its marinade, but the Malay marinade is sweeter and more authentic. Chicken Rice The components of chicken, rice and chilli are critical in what makes chicken rice good. Many claim that authentic Hainanese chicken rice must be served plain without drizzling any thick soy sauce (a usual accompanying condiment).
Roti Prata Translated as “flat bread”, this pancake-like Indian bread usually served with curry is popular for breakfast and supper. Creative fillings such banana, durian, cheese, chocolate and even ice cream are available for the adventurous. Ayam Buah Keluak Ayam Buah Keluak, the favourite dish of the Peranakans as well as many others of other races is, like many Peranakan dishes, difficult and time-consuming to make. The special curry is made with the unique keluak nuts, obtained from Indonesia. While the fruit is actually poisonous, the nut is carefully prepared and cleaned. Still, the preparation is tedious. Nonetheless, this is gastronomic pleasure at its finest.
Fish Head Curry An entire snapper’s head is cooked in a spicy, tangy tamarind curry. It is said to originate from an Indian chef named Gomez, who had decided to cook discarded fish heads in curry.
Laksa This rich coconut curry brothbased noodle soup comes with meat, garnishing and see hum (cockles). Originally eaten only with a spoon, it is one hot and spicy dish that Singaporeans don’t mind eating in our tropical climate. It’s simply shiok! Rojak Rojak, meaning “wild mix” in Malay, is made up of fruits and vegetables such as bean sprouts, tau pok, pineapple and cucumber, mixed in a dark shrimp paste and served with a sprinkle of ground peanuts for texture and a crunchy bite.
Carrot Cake This is not the Western carrot cake with icing but a local Chinese dish. The black version of carrot cake or chye tau kway with sweet black sauce was brought to Singapore by our Chinese forefathers, and locals later created the white version. It consists of fried preserved radish, egg and starch cake. “Carrot cake” is actually an
Char Kway Teow Loosely translated as “stir-fried rice cake strips”, char kway teow is a simple dish. The kway teow, or flat rice noodles, is stir-fried in crispy bits of lard with soy sauce, eggs, Chinese sausages, belacan (shrimp paste), bean sprouts and chives. Despite the risk of Hepatitis A, some still insist on raw or half cooked see hum (cockles) for flavour and texture.
English misnomer, as the Chinese word for “radish” is almost the same as “carrot”.
Bak Kut Teh During Singapore’s post-war years, pork bones were boiled together with garlic and pepper to make this Teochew soup, which coolies – Chinese labourers – consumed as a nutritious energy boost. It was a premium hawker dish, and the Hokkiens who were competing with the Teochews for work came up with a version with more soy sauce and herbs.
Nasi Biryani In Singapore, this fragrant Indian dish of basmati rice, and chicken or mutton curry has evolved due to local Malay influence. The secret to good biryani is in the basmati rice. Tau Huay Originating from China, the soft, smooth texture of the curd that retains the soya beans’ taste is what differentiates good tau huay from the average. Freshly-made bean curd at a stall is generally softer, finer and smoother, and tastier. There are a few popular names including
Chwee Kueh Literally “water cake” in Teochew, it is so named because of the little dimple in the middle, where water collects after steaming. It tastes somewhat like rice, except that it is smoother, and is topped with chye poh (pickled radish). W
Some GREAT Stall Recommendations
Popiah Teochew for “thin pancake”, popiah is actually a paperthin flour crepe with a filling of cooked vegetables such as turnip, lettuce and bean sprouts, and with a little meat. Originating from Fujian, China, it is derived from the Chinese spring roll, which was consumed during Spring because of the abundance of vegetables. Ice Kacang Ice Kacang is made of shaved ice with a core of red beans, sweetened attap seeds and green chendol strips. It comes drizzled with sweet corn, condensed milk and coloured syrup in red, green and yellow. This is an iconic Singaporean dessert and has even been pictured on Singapore Tourism Board postcards. Hokkien Prawn Mee This dish was created by Hokkien sailors from Southern China when they fried excess noodles along Rochor Road. Today, thick yellow noodles are stirfried with eggs and seafood in lard, giving it a rich full flavour, then served on an Opei leaf (soft palm bark). Chendol Slurp up strings of green chendol jelly in this satisfying dessert of shaved ice, coconut milk and gula Melaka (palm sugar from Malacca, the origin of this dessert). The Singaporean style usually has red beans, grass jelly and perhaps even sweet corn.
Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodles Around for 60 years, serving chewy noodles with pork, liver, meat balls and minced meat. 466 Crawford Lane, Singapore 190466
No Name Tau Huay Its special bean curd with gypsum (shi gao), is softer and silkier than the common type that uses lactone coagulant. Whampoa Drive Makan Place, 90 Whampoa Drive, Singapore 320090 Heng Carrot Cake Their self-made kueh is softer than most, and it is fried well with lots of chye poh and eggs. Newton Food Centre,
500 Clemenceau Avenue North, Singapore 229495 Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice The flesh of the chicken is tender though it has been fully cooked. This is the one that beat Masterchef Gordon Ramsay's rendition. Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore 069184 & 433 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427656
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10 • WEEKENDER • August 9 - 15, 2013
NTERTAINMENT singapore beat:
Artistes we can
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Deborah Lee, lead vocalist of Victoria Street, has a soulful voice
Power 98 Music Review
be proud of The arts scene in Singapore has become more and more vibrant. Here are some musical artistes you should check out By Cleon Ong & Chia Hui Jun Esther performing at the launch of her EP
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f you have been unaware or uninvolved in our arts scene, perhaps it is time you gave our creativity, artistry and talent a chance. We present some talented musicians you can be proud of.
ESTHER LOWLESS Esther Lowless’ music career began with a declaration of her love for animals. Her friend who was a sound engineer and music producer had challenged her to write a song on this topic and, after recording her self-written song in his studio, she realised that it was possible to write an extended play (EP) album. Light in the Darkness The piano singer-songwriter draws inspiration from negative emotions, distant memories and inspirational experience. In fact, her album Strange Place to Meet tells the story of a mental breakdown she had between the years of 2009 to 2011. The six songs on the EP relate how an unwelcome visitor had barged into her life, haunted her, and how she had faced it with courage. Esther counts “finding the courage to go solo” as her proudest achievement. “I just hope that I will gain fans of my music that truly appreciate the kind of music that I do... and enjoy the musical experience I offer,” she said.
Victoria Street is in the postproduction stage of their first EP
“all their views come together and create something magical.”
“...how an unwelcome visitor had barged into Her life, haunted her, and how she had faced it...”
can never decide on a song to cover. It’s only when they come together to write an original number that all their different views come together and create something magical. Victoria Street is currently in the post-production stage of their very first EP. The EP will have five songs. Two of the songs, "We Had A Story" and "If Only I Could", were played at the launch of SPEAR (Singapore Polytechnic Emerging Artiste and Repertoire), Singapore Polytechnic’s very own record label and production house.
VICTORIA STREET Victoria Street is a five-piece band that plays alternative pop and rock songs. Deborah Lee (vocals), Joshua Low (vocals, guitar), Nigel Peh (vocals, guitar), Darren Tan (bass) and Spencer Teo (drums & percussion) were course mates in Singapore Polytechnic. The band was formed after a random jamming session back in their poly days. Shortly after,
they played a few gigs within their school and received compliments from lecturers that they had the potential to go far. It was then when they decided to take the band seriously. Original Material & New EP Victoria Street plays mostly original material when they play together, because the members
Proudest Achievement Victoria Street closed the event for the launch of SPEAR. The event was held at Hard Rock Hotel's Coliseum at Resorts World Sentosa. With a turnout of about 1,000 people, it was the biggest stage they had played on so far. Although some of the members have to serve the nation soon (one of them is already in the army), they hope to keep writing and composing new songs. Of course, they would love to play for everyone more. W
Sara Bareilles reborn By Sonja Steinmetz
from love song to heartbreak, sara bareilles is back with a new album Since we last heard from her, Sara Bareilles has gone through heartbreak and heartache. She ended a long romantic relationship, ended a few professional relationships too, and even moved all the way from Los Angeles to New York to start afresh. The Rebirth of Sara Bareilles In the midst of all these major life changes, The Blessed Unrest was born. It’s her fourth album, and the title aptly describes the situation she had found herself in while making it – uneasy, unrested and unsure. These are undoubtedly scary and uncomfortable states of mind to be in but from chaos comes creativity. New City, New Sound The album opener, “Brave”, sounds very much like the Sara that fans know and love. However, after those three minutes and 41 seconds, the rest of the album seems a little less familiar. Working in a new city with new people will definitely change a girl, and there are shades of Sara on this release that we hadn’t seen before. She comes across as pleading and introspective on “Hercules”, with its unusual instrumentation, and echo-y and somewhat distant in the epic “Satellite Call”. In
“From chaos comes creativity…”
“Eden” she dabbles in electronica and I’m not sure it’s a vibe that altogether suits her. Sara is at her best when she’s at her most vulnerable. She paints pictures with her words, such as in “Manhattan”, where she beautifully describes the pain of a long-distance relationship that didn’t make it. “1000 Times” is another stand-out, soaked in the sorrow of unrequited love. Whether or not you like the sound of the reborn Sara Bareilles, the album would make an interesting listen. Start your day with Sonja Steinmetz on The Power Breakfast Show, together with Hubert Tang and Jamie Yeo, on weekday mornings, 6am-10am, on Power 98FM.
About Sonja Steinmetz A day without chocolate is a day without meaning, according to DJ Sonja Steinmetz. She’s also a huge fan of the German national football team and Earl Grey tea with milk. Tune in to her on Power 98.
BE HAPPIER
Electrifying music Electrico speaks to us on what’s next By Cheryl Chia
It has been about ten years since home-grown band Electrico started making waves in the music scene. Since then, they have won a number of accolades and even performed in the National Day Parade, in 2009. We speak to them to find out what they’ve been up to, and what we can next expect.
Since you started in 2003, how has the local indie music scene changed? Des: The government is providing monetary assistance, which is a good sign. It's still a young industry with lots of areas for expansion and a need for infrastructure to assist all the bands out there.
Dave: The demographics and people who have the power to make things better are still very ignorant about the scene, and people still don’t put their money where their mouth is. You've performed in the US as well, in 2007. What is the difference between a US crowd and a local one? Des: The Americans are more open to new music and they show it when they enjoy the music. Singaporeans are still more reserved. William: Sometimes I feel like they don't hesitate to cheer, applaud and dance. But Singaporean crowds are great too! I think it is more about the venue and the kind of show you are doing too. What is next for Electrico? A new album perhaps? Dave: Definitely more straightforward, punkish music and, as usual, some offtangent stuff for the new album. Des: The only spoiler is that we have been listening to a lot of The Strokes, The Black Keys and The Datsun; the kind of stuff that makes us tick. We’re
happy to have done Baybeats as well. What is your most memorable moment as a band? Dave: The Australian tour, playing SXSW in Texas, Baybeats, MTV Asia Awards, playing to 100,000 people in Taiwan and playing for NDP 2009 were all very memorable... but I’m sure I’m missing tons more. Funny moment: We had a show where Desmond was jumping around, slowly coiling his guitar cable around his body, ‘til it popped out of the amp, leaving us with no bass... William: All the music festivals, travelling and the fans! It's these things that also drive us to keep going because every now and then there are great moments! If you could perform with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be? Des: Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters, because he plays with so much energy and passion all the time. Do you have any advice for budding local bands? Dave: You have to have true passion for the craft. Always push your boundaries because if you don't, you won’t last. The demographics and small original
music culture in Singapore does make it a tough place for any artist trying to push original music but the Internet has made it easier for our stuff to get heard. In terms of actual tangible support, it’s always an uphill task. Singapore is still a very young country, so as long as people keep working hard to keep the scene alive, I’m hopeful that it will eventually mature to a thriving one in the future. What would you say to Singaporeans about the local music scene? Des: Listen and be open to the music. There will be at least one act out there that will speak to you. William: Try catching some local shows, give them a chance to present their music and perform a good show for you! Whether you like it or not, always try to give local performers a shot.
august 9 - 15, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 11
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
TRAVELATIO
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Singaporeans’
Bangkok Bangkok city is such a complex bundle of contradictions. Its unique blend of Buddhism and modernism lends itself a heady and intoxicating veneer that many Singaporeans find impossible to resist. It is not just the amazingly cheap shopping at Chatuchak, or the lanes and lanes of delicious street food such as mango sticky rice and Pad Thai. The city’s very atmosphere is an awakening of
favourite
destinations Where are Singaporeans’ favourite destinations or where do they go to rejuvenate themselves? Here are three popular choices
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the senses. In Bangkok, one can find gilded Buddhist temples right next to the flashing neon of red light districts. There are also many great deals for bargain hunters in Siam Paragon and other shopping malls, as well as in the stall markets. Above everything, the Thai people truly live up to the nickname of their nation, “the Land of Smiles”. Don’t miss the floating markets, where locals hawk their wares on narrow boats. Classy yet with a rugged edge at the same time, it is no wonder that this feisty city keeps us coming back for more.
By Lee Li Ying Singaporeans are charmed by Taiwan’s gorgeous scenery
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ur restrictive borders are no match for Singaporeans' wanderlust. As hectic as our lifestyles are, we are an increasingly cosmopolitan and well-travelled bunch. With many of the world's most exciting cities just a short flight away, it seems criminal not to give ourselves some time off. If you’ve missed your window this National Day long weekend, fear not. There are at least five long weekends this year!
Home Away from Home Booking website Hotels.com surveyed Singaporean travellers’ most well-loved destinations and revealed that we can’t get enough of Taipei, Bangkok and Hong Kong. All Singaporeans love a good deal. Many Asian cities are, without a doubt, some of the safest and most value-for-money destinations for Singaporeans. Their proximity and our strong currency rates are additional incentives. With great food and plentiful shopping at a fraction of the price, Singaporeans are drawn to these cities like bees to honey. Familiarity with the region allows Singaporeans to take to these vibrant cities like fish to water, whilst their traditions and unique cultures still give Singaporeans a taste of the exotic.
Shopping is one of Singaporeans’ favourite pastimes. More so when products are cheap Thailand’s floating markets are a colourful and attractive sight
Hong Kong Like peas in a pod, our buzzing metropolis has often been compared to the vibrant hub-dub of Hong Kong city life. Both Singapore and Hong Kong are (or, in the case of Hong Kong, once was) city-states with much in common. Boasting a wide variety of sights from temples to colonial buildings, the powerful Hong Kong is close to combination of home, yet has good East and West has shopping and food, and sights to experience never been more compelling in a city. Pockets of cultural heritage can be found in the markets and fishing villages. Most of all, don’t miss out on the delicious Cantonese cuisine that Hong Kong is famous for. Why not plan your next short haul trip now? W
Taipei From the proportions of crispy fried chicken to the odour of the stinky fried tofu found at Shilin Market, the fashion mecca that is Ximending and the rejuvenating spas found at Beitou Hot Springs, it is no wonder that Taipei in Taiwan is one of Singaporeans’ most favourite destinations. An urban metropolis with a rich street culture, Singaporeans can truly let their tummies (and purse strings) go when they make their way slowly down the long, crowded aisles in the night markets. With an efficient transport system and clubs that go on partying until dawn, the chaotic energy of this city is infectious. Do check out the majestic Taipei 101 (the world’s fourthtallest skyscraper), the icon of the city.
WEALTH The Moon Deck is another attractive area, and is suitable for parties and outdoor gatherings
CoSpace allows home buyers to reconfigure their home space The Guest Room can be transformed into a different type of room according to your needs
CoSpace at
Ecopolitan The latest condominium by Qingjian Realty (South Pacific) Group Pte Ltd offers great versatility of space
Ecopolitan in Punggol ofters the revolutionary concept of CoSpace
Ecopolitan, an eight-block, 512-unit, eco-inspired residence is a mere walking distance from the Punggol MRT station, bus interchange and the soon-to-beopen Waterway Point. It also offers the revolutionary concept of CoSpace.
Utilising Space more Efficiently CoSpace is a unique concept that offers homebuyers the opportunity to reconfigure space according to their lifestyle needs. For instance, a room or space can be transformed into a study area or playroom for the kids, a storeroom with an additional wardrobe, a home entertainment room, or even a guest room, according to the needs of the occupant. This efficient use of space allows buyers to have better usage of the space at different stages of their lives. “CoSpace is an innovative feature that will continue to appeal to buyers who are looking for spacious and luxurious living. Qingjian will continue to build new concepts and ideas to meet the demands of buyers in an
ever-changing environment,” says Mr Li Jun, General Manager for Qingjian Realty (South Pacific) Group Private Limited.
Tweaking to Your LIFESTYLE Needs The CoSpace concept also allows homebuyers the greater flexibility to tweak and to change space usage in accordance to their needs. For example, a newlywed couple may use the space for an entertainment room, and subsequently change it to a children’s room when they choose to start a family. The CoSpace concept was first tested in Qingjian’s River Isles’ 124 three and four-bedroom units, and proved to be popular among homebuyers. Following its popularity at River Isles, Qingjian will also have 208 CoSpace units across three to fivebedroom units at the Ecopolitan, as well as in their upcoming executive condominium units at Woodlands and Anchorvale. UNITS AVAILABLE Ecopolitian offers a wide selection of units from an 893 sq ft three-
bedroom unit and 1,141 sq ft of a four-bedroom unit will cost an approximate $700,000 and $900,000 respectively. Familyfriendly units with five bedrooms are available as well. Bookings for eligible Executive Condominium buyers opened on Aug 3. ENthusiastic response on booking day When the booking period concluded on the evening of Aug 3, almost 60 per cent of the units of Ecopolitan had already been sold. The new CoSpace concept was very popular among the home
buyers. Over 60 per cent of the CoSpace unit types were sold. For VIEWING & BOOKING The Ecopolitan Sales Gallery will be open from 10am to 7pm daily. For enquires please call 6858 5777.
“This efficient use of space allows buyers to have better usage of the space at different stages of their lives.”
12 • WEEKENDER • august 9 - 15, 2013
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
Weekender is published by Weekender Group Pte Ltd, 80 Playfair Road, #02-03, Blk A, Singapore 367998. Printed by KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd, 57 Loyang Drive, Singapore 508968.