Tropicana Magazine Jan-Feb 2018 #116: A Start From The Heart

Vol. #116 January / February 2018 

A START FROM THE HEART 

IAN 

TEMPLE 

Of Tenby Schools 

On Being a 

Modern Principal 

KENGO 

KUMA 

Cutting Edge Architecture 

from Natural Materials 

ENTER THE 

NEW YEAR 

Qi Pao That Pack a 

Seductive Punch 

UP ALL 

NIGHT 

Hidden Gems of 

Melbourne's Bar Scene

EDITOR’S NOTE 

A start from 

the heart… 

It’s the New Year! The time is ripe for 

new beginnings and aspirations to drive 

you through 2018. Enter with new 

resolutions and new resolve. 

As always we provide you with an 

inspirational read from cover to cover. 

Aptly themed ‘A start from the heart’, this 

issue brings to you the people, places, style 

and object d’art that inspire us with their 

strength and beauty. 

Our cover personality, the Principal 

of Tenby Schools, Ian Temple, gives 

us plenty of reason to get motivated. 

His unrelenting passion for teaching 

and moulding young minds, as well as 

reinventing his style of teaching, tells us 

that by thinking out of the box, we can 

achieve more no matter the geographical 

surroundings. 

Other personalities in the mix are 

Michelin-restauranteur Nobu Matsuhisa 

and renowned model, Soo Joo Park. 

Their tales of overcoming adversity and 

carving out a name in the bright lights are 

inspiring – a journey of gaining recognition and respect that didn’t come easy. 

Change is refreshing, not just for yourself but for your living space too. Reinvent 

your home to reflect your favourite travel destinations. Include key décor items around 

your home that you’ve picked up during your travels. It’s a great way to ignite fond 

memories of a particular holiday, and makes for a great conversation piece when guests 

visit. 

It’s also time to usher in the Year of the Dog. Pay heed to some astrological advice on 

how best to make the dog year work in your favour. Dress the part during the festivities 

in gorgeous qi paos with a modern twist from local designers Melinda Looi and Khoon 

Hooi. 

Make a fresh start and don’t be dogged by old, nagging issues. Get ahead with our 

health tips and keep your head above the water at all times. 

As a new chapter unfolds, the team at Tropicana wishes you an awesome 2018!

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VOLUME 

#116 

TM | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 

10

THE DIARY 

CURATED BY TANIA JAYATHILAKA 

16/01 

FLEET FOXES IN KL 

Grammy-nominated American indie folk band Fleet Foxes will be 

performing at KL Live from 7pm onwards. Fleet Foxes band members 

Robin Pecknold, Skyler Skjelset, Casey Wescott, Christian Wargo and 

Morgan Henderson gained popularity in 2007 and 2008 for their 

unique blend of folk, rock and pop, receiving rave reviews for their 

first full-length album, Fleet Foxes. Their third album, Crack-Up, was 

released last year, featuring 11 songs written by vocalist and multiinstrumentalist 

Robin Pecknold. 

KL Live at Life Centre 

20 Jalan Sultan Ismail 

Kuala Lumpur 

03-5481 5077 


12

THE DIARY 

19/1 – 20/1 

KENNY SEBASTIAN LIVE IN MALAYSIA 2018 

Dubbed ‘The No. 1 Young Indian To Watch Out For 

In 2016’ by Buzzfeed, Youtuber and stand-up comedian 

Kenny Sebastian is set to entertain Malaysian audiences 

this January. Sebastian released his fifth comedy special, 

Don’t Be That Guy, on Amazon in 2017. He also wrote 

and hosted a season of sketch comedy shows, The 

Living Room, on Comedy Central India in 2014. 

Pentas 1, Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre 

(KLPAC) 

Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 

Sentul, Kuala Lumpur 

03-4047 9000 

6/1 – 7/1 

THE BEST OF BERNSTEIN’S BROADWAY 

Watch as the Malaysian Philharmonic 

Orchestra kicks of the centennial celebration of 

American composer Bernard Bernstein with a 

programme featuring Bernstein’s most iconic 

Broadway hits, including scores from West 

Side Story, Peter Pan, On The Town, Candide 

and more. Conducted by Louisville Orchestra 

Music Director Teddy Abrahams and featuring 

Broadway singer and songwriter Morgan James, 

the show is a must-see for Broadway fans. 

Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra 

Level Two, Tower Two, 

PETRONAS Twin Tower 

Kuala Lumpur City Centre 

03-2331 7008 

8/2 – 11/3 

OLA BOLA THE MUSICAL 

Directed by Tiara Jacquelina, this all-Malaysian 

musical will re-enact the events surrounding 

the 1980s Harimau Malaya football team, as told 

in the 2016 film Ola Bola by Chiu Keng Guan. 

Watch this inspiring story unfold on stage in 

between rap and hip hop numbers featuring 

some original cast members from the film and 

music by composer-lyricist Mia Palencia and 

Rapper-lyricist Altimet. 

Istana Budaya 

Panggung Sari Istana Budaya 

Jalan Tun Razak 

03-6142-8225 

25/1 – 28/1 

OCD 

Presented by The Actors Studio Seni 

Teater Rakyat and under the direction of 

Ho Lee Ching, OCD is a physical theatre 

performance exploring what life is like with 

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder with all its 

accompanying compulsions and anxieties. 

This hour-long production features cast 

members Emma Megan Khoo, Amanda 

Xavier, Riena Aisya and Jun Vinh Teoh. 

Pentas 2, Kuala Lumpur Performing 

Arts Centre (KLPAC) 

Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 

Sentul, Kuala Lumpur 

03-4047 9000 

25/2 – 2/3 

THE 2ND MALAYSIAN INTERNATIONAL 

FILM FESTIVAL 

This year’s Malaysian International Film 

Festival revolves around two concepts of 

Hope and Despair, under the overall theme 

of Humanity. Drawing from its success last 

year, the festival will feature 20 local and 

international films from across the globe 

and showcase the work of filmmakers from 

Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam 

and Singapore with its newly added ‘Southeast 

Asian Film Focus’ category. 

03-5622 1600 

13 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 | TM

THE SCENE 

The Scene 

The hottest events to have set society abuzz. 

JOEY WOO, DIRECTOR OF ART OF TREE RECEIVING THE AWARD. 

THE ART OF WINNING 

MAJESTIC HOTEL, KUALA LUMPUR. 

8 DECEMBER 2017 

JOEY WOO WITH HER HUSBAND AND DIRECTOR OF ART OF TREE, JEFFREY 

YANG MAKE A WINNING COMBINATION. 

Art of Tree has clinched the coveted SME100 

Award for being one of the Fastest Moving 

Companies of 2017. The accolade is awarded 

to small and medium enterprises through 

stringent qualitative and quantitative 

criteria. Focusing on the company’s growth 

and resilience, the SME100 award strives to 

recognise top businesses in the SME sector 

and it comes as no surprise that Art of Tree 

was a strong contender. 

Resilience is the mainstay of this home 

-grown business allowing them to persevere 

through challenges in the timber industry. 

Art of Tree continues its winning streak 

by ensuring all its products are made from 

salvaged trees and not deforested ones. 


14

THE SCENE 

ACE-R YOUR GAME! 

SUBANG JAYA. 

24 OCTOBER 2017 

THE PRODUCT TEAM FROM ACER MALAYSIA WITH THE NEWLY LAUNCHED ACER SPIN 5. 

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: EDMUND HOH, PRODUCT MANAGER, ACER MALAYSIA, CHAN WENG 

HONG, GENERAL MANAGER OF PRODUCTS, SALES AND MARKETING, ACER MALAYSIA, 

JEFFREY LAI, PRODUCT MANAGER, ACER MALAYSIA, JOHNSON SEET, DIRECTOR OF 

PRODUCTS, ACER MALAYSIA 

IT giant Acer is all out to make 2018 an 

amazing and powerful experience for IT 

enthusiasts throughout the country with its 

latest offerings. The new convertible Spin 5 is 

equipped with the latest 8th Generation Intel 

Core processor and easy interchangeability 

to four useful modes, making it a perfect 

platform to create and share content. 

The new Acer Swift 3, on the other 

hand, is available with NVIDIA GeForce 

MX150 graphics for the 15.6-inch model. 

Featuring a 37.5-inch IPS curved screen, 

the Acer XR382CQK is Acer’s first monitor 

that features an UltraWide QHD+ (3840 

x 1600) in a zero-frame display, supports 

FreeSync and is paired with special features 

like the PIP/PBP and Daisy Chain to take 

productivity to a new level. 

Acer also presents the first projectors 

equipped with a blue light filter – the P series 

projectors, which offer best value for work 

and fun. Last but not the least, the wellcrafted 

All-In-One PC, Acer Aspire C22-860 

packs all you need into a frame that is merely 

11mm thin at the top, while delivering a 

smooth computing experience. 

ACER MALAYSIA PRODUCT MANAGER EDMUND HOH WITH THE NEWLY LAUNCHED 

ACER’S FIRST MONITOR THAT FEATURES AN ULTRAWIDE QHD+ IN A ZERO-FRAME 

DISPLAY - THE XR382CQK MONITOR. 


IAN TEMPLE 

Head 

Above 

The 

Rest 

Ian Temple of Tenby Schools is a model educationist who shares his path 

to moulding the leaders of tomorrow. 


16

IAN TEMPLE 


IAN TEMPLE 

Shirt and sweater 

TOMMY HILFIGER 


18

IAN TEMPLE 

It was interesting to note that 

at every instruction given 

by the photographer to Ian 

Temple, Ian would act upon it 

accurately and professionally. 

It gave rise to some suspicion before Ian 

was egged on to admit, “Yes, I did some 

modelling in my younger days!” 

Ian had modelled for about four to five 

years from the age of 17. His fit physique, 

attributed to hours of squash, primed him 

for the modelling industry. It was no wonder that the photography 

shoot wrapped up quickly as Ian made it all the more easier with 

every pose and shot. 

He eventually ventured into television commercials. 

“It was for Black and Decker,” he divulges. “It was for a new 

lawn mower and the commercial was shot in a garden that 

had just won a national gardening competition, and it was an 

absolutely beautiful garden. It was a good stint and it didn’t get 

in the way of my studies. If at all, it gave me extra pocket money 

and I was able to afford little luxuries like holidays and buy 

nice things.” 

So, did modelling influence a sense of style in Ian? “The 

only thing modelling taught me was to never go into the 

entertainment industry. A few people I modelled with did go 

on to become well known personalities but somehow a career in 

this field was not appealing to me.” 

Ian is far from home – Sunderland, Northern England to 

be exact. “We have a bad football team but a very good cricket 

team, which is the Durham County Cricket Club. If there’s 

anything I miss about home, it would be cricket.” 

Into his eighth year away, Ian has somewhat acclimatised 

to life in Malaysia and Dubai six years prior. His passion for 

teaching has somewhat numbed any feeling of homesickness 

and has him forging ahead with purpose. 

Born to educationist parents, it never crossed his mind that 

one day he too would follow suit. With an older brother who 

studied accounts management and who has since moved into 

the software management industry, Ian was a little uncertain of 

his future undertakings. 

“I won’t say I got into this line by mistake,” says the 47-yearold. 

“I just decided to give it a shot and literally from day one 

there was no looking back!” 

“The education system in the UK wasn’t great in the 70s and 

“If anyone told me in 

1993 when I started 

teaching, that I would 

be a head teacher, I 

would have laughed 

it off. It just hadn’t 

crossed my mind.” 

80s. You sat in the classroom for one 

hour periods, six hours a day. They 

gave you information and at the end 

of your five years, you sat for an exam 

and that’s when you discovered if you 

were really good or not. I found it to 

be a negative experience because that’s 

not the way I want to learn; I’m a doer. 

I like to get out there and do things, 

and what I learn sticks with me.” 

“I went through my education and 

as I got older, I started to appreciate it more, especially when 

I was doing my degree. After a four to five year wait, I did my 

Masters in Education in Sunderland University followed by 

the National Professional Qualification for Headship a few 

years later.” 

Ian was in his first Deputy Headship in a school in 

Newcastle when he really started to look at how he could make 

a difference. 

“My work was concentrated in the classroom, but when you 

can do what you do in a classroom across a whole school, it 

got me thinking. People will listen to me, and if they do these 

things that I say, things could get better for them. One of the 

first things I learnt in management was that if I make people’s 

lives better, then we can make the whole place better.” 

“It’s actually my job to feed information down to them to 

make it better and not the other way around,” he explains further. 

Today, Ian continues to teach despite being the Principal of 

Tenby Schools. There’s just no keeping him away from the 

classroom no matter how high up the career ladder he climbs. 

A Business Studies teacher for the Cambridge IGCSE syllabus, 

he takes students right through to their exam year. You would 

think running the school would already take a huge chunk 

of time but Ian is adamant about getting his time in the 

classroom. 

“Teaching evolves and it is essential to be at the ground 

level to keep abreast of new techniques and developments 

in teaching,” he says. “No teacher wants to let their students 

down. So, I put pressure on myself to keep up to date. I feel 

good doing that, as it is crucial to practise what you preach 

otherwise you could lose your staff rather quickly.” 

Is Ian a fun teacher? “I used to be!” he laughs. “I didn’t have 

a problem when I taught in the Middle East but Malaysian 

children are not getting my jokes. I did manage to get a few 


IAN TEMPLE 

INTERVIEW SHARMINI M.RETHINASAMY 

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN FANG, M8 STUDIO 

ART DIRECTION NOR HAMIMAH ABDULLAH 

MAKE UP AND HAIR JOEY YAP 

laughs today and they are getting used to me but I guess mine 

is a completely different sense of humour. The poor kids! They 

are getting there but hopefully by year end, along with business 

studies, they will learn some British humour, which is a cultural 

exchange of sorts.” 

Quite the introvert when he was in school, Ian was a shy boy. 

“I would actually just take my time and observe an entire situation 

until I was comfortable knowing that I would get it right,” he 

shares. “I was the type who would look after myself and wasn’t a 

loud mouth or show off. I just enjoyed my game of squash and was 

pleased that I played it at a decent level. It kept me motivated and 

got me through the school day with a smile on my face.” 

Ian was so into the sport that at the age of 18, he took a year 

out of study to play squash and see if he could achieve more in 

the game. “Unfortunately, I didn’t but I had some great times 

playing it. I got to train with World Number One, Jansher 

Khan, who was just a few years older than me, at the quarter 

finals of the Scottish Open. It was a great experience, though 

he absolutely wiped the floor with me, but it didn’t matter as 

I played with the World Number One and made some great 

friends on the circuit.” 

As any hope for a stellar career in the sporting arena was 

dashed, it was a turning point and Ian knew he had to do 

something else. Hence, he pursued his degree. 

“I can’t understand why I didn’t pursue a degree in 

geography though,” says Ian. “I love the physical side of 

geography and get fascinated with geographical barriers.” 

“Probably one of the most positive experiences in the 

classroom during my school time was my geography teacher, 

Mrs Whitehead. She was tough as boots but wonderful all the 

same. Really the kind of authority a teenage boy needs. In 

those days, we could get caned in school as a child.” He quickly 

adds, “I was a good child; in fact, I was very good. It’s a little 

embarrassing as I was only ever put in detention once. My 

whole class was late for a lesson. It was my only ‘criminal’ 

record in school!” 

Ian has, over time, learned to adapt to the different social 

and cultural environments he has taught in. Having worked in 

Dubai for a while and now in Malaysia, he has come a long way 

to bridging the gaps in cultural differences. 

“I come from the northeast of England where you may have 

three Muslim families in your entire community,” he explains. 

“Having those Muslim students come to your school is a moving 

experience for those children who have never been out of their 

geographical region. It’s been a great learning curve for most of 

them. I went from being a deputy principal of an outstanding 

school to the principal in Dubai not knowing what I was going 

to get myself into. I had never even visited Dubai, but I did have 

friends there and they persuaded me. It was a hotbed of multiculturism.” 

“They [UAE] still have their visions for what they want their 

citizens to be, to be able to accept all cultures. It was really the 

first time I was working with the Chinese and again from Persia 

and Iraq, you name it, to Brazil, New Zealand and Kazakhstan. 

It was absolutely fantastic. We used to celebrate International 

Day, and everyone would celebrate their cultures. That’s where 

I really learnt about my international mindedness, my multiculturism 

in Dubai. You don’t have a choice, a lot of the schools 

are like that, to the point where there’s only around 20 per cent 

of locals in a school. Whereas here [Tenby], we have 70 per cent 

Malaysians, and on the flip side, we only have 30 per cent of other 

nationalities in the schools, so you can still get that international 

mindedness.” 

Ian is motivated to come to school every day to get things 

done. No matter how good the school is he knows there is always 

room for improvement. 

“I would absolutely be bored stiff if I didn’t get to teach and 

have those relationships in student-teacher-management levels 

with everybody,” he says. “That excites me even if it’s just the 

everyday matters of fixing the roof and ensuring the drains are 

not blocked.” 

“If anyone told me in 1993 when I started teaching, that 

I would be a head teacher, I would have laughed it off. It just 

hadn’t crossed my mind, because I was embarking on this 

new career, and I just wanted to be a good teacher. I still want 

to be a good teacher and I will always be a teacher. That’s the 

fun side of life. That’s why dabbling in modelling, music and 

squash made it is so clear. I hope to be able to drive that, so 

that children know that there’s got to be a life/study balance. 

Otherwise, you’re just going to be this boring academic making 

no difference.” 

There’s no stopping Ian as he continues to grow as a school 

principal and teacher, but most importantly as a mentor to the 

young. Has he any regrets leaving the UK to come teach in a 

country so far away? 

“It’s the best decision I’ve made, cause I’ve made friends, got 

to know various cultures and people; it will stay with me for the 

rest of my life.” 


20

IAN TEMPLE 

Knit turtleneck, 

MICHAEL KORS 

COLLECTION. Bangle 

Suit by 

MASSIMO and 

earring, 

DUTTI 

KATE SPADE 

NEW YORK. 


Looking East 

From traditional artworks to dystopian-like architecture, these coffee table books will 

liven up your interest in eastern art. 

NEWS | BOOKS 

MIDNIGHT TWEEDLE 

ZHANG LIJIE 

The frantic atmosphere of 

China’s cultural and political 

scene is given a new take in 

this compilation of artwork 

ranging from collages, 

posters, photographs and even 

objects from everyday life 

that perfectly describes the 

republic’s complexities. 

Zhang Lijie does a 

fantastic job in portraying 

the political climate of the 

country giving you a unique 

look on China whether as a 

local or through a foreigner’s 

eye. showcasing exoticness as 

well as its progress towards 

modernisation. 

Our Pick... 

WARM MODERNITY: INDIAN 

ARCHITECTURE BUILDING 

DEMOCRACY 

MADDALENA D’ALFONSO 

This book provides a unique 

and insightful look at city 

planning in India shortly after 

its independence. Greatly 

influenced by modernist 

and western architecture, 

the planning of several of 

India’s cities took much 

more than just designing the 

right infrastructure to fit 

the region; creating better 

opportunities and living 

conditions for the locals 

and, lessen the burden of its 

communities. 

TIMELESS BEAUTY: 

TRADITIONAL JAPANESE 

FOLK ART 

EDMUND DE WALL 

The artwork featured in this 

book ranges from everyday 

life objects from 14th century 

Japan to the more familiar 

artworks and utilitarian 

objects of the 20th century 

made by people from all walks 

of life. The book is a stunning 

display of the Japanese’s 

commitment to detail and 

beauty with insightful 

anecdotes by respected 

Japanese art historians. 

PROJECT JAPAN: 

METABOLISM TALKS 

REM KOOLHAAS AND HANS 

ULRICH OBRIST 

Launched in 1960, The 

Metabolism movement 

provided a radical perspective 

on architecture and design in 

Japan during a time of healing 

and progress. The architecture 

and design of the movement 

depicted an almost dystopian 

landscape fit for a sci-fi film 

and progressive designs that 

were way ahead of its time. 

The book is filled with 

rare photographs, sketches 

and interviews with the 

surviving members of the 

movement. 

CURATED BY NOOR AMYLIA HILDA 

HIROSHIGE 

ADELE SCHLOMBS 

Hiroshige was known as one of the most popular artists of the Ukiyo-e 

genre, which translates into ‘pictures of the floating world’ and is a type 

of woodblock print art. His paintings are often defined as depicting the 

very essence of Japanese living and the Japanese way of life. 

Filled with full-colour paintings of Hiroshige’s most well known 

works of blooming Sakura cherry blossom trees, women frolicking in 

colourful kimonos and crashing waves across the shores of a serene 

island, there’s always something new to discover when you flip the 

pages of this meticulously crafted book. 

“Some of the 

greatest prints in 

the history of art.” 

The Wall Street Journal, New York 


NEWS | MOVIES 

Eastern Cinema 

Immerse yourself in these gripping new foreign films. 

THE RED TURTLE 

This charming Studio 

Ghibli production follows 

a shipwrecked man on a 

deserted island. The wordless 

animation is directed by 

Dutch animator Michaël 

Dudok de Wit and supervised 

under Studio Gibli’s 

Takahata and Toshio Suzuki. 

The moving story filled 

with bittersweet moments 

and ethereal sequences is 

meant to signify milestone 

moments of the shipwrecked 

man’s life. The film is a joy 

to watch from beginning to 

end and portrays the human 

condition in a way only 

Studio Ghibli can. Better 

keep the tissues at hand. 

AFTER THE STORM 

Hirokazu Kore-eda’s family 

drama tells the story of 

Shinoda, a private detective 

with a gambling addiction, 

who uses his private eye skills 

to spy on his ex-wife and her 

new partner while also trying 

to reconnect with his young 

son following the death of 

his own father. All this takes 

place in the midst of a typhoon 

brewing. 

Language: Japanese 

Starring: Hiroshi Abe, Kirin Kiki 

and Yōko Maki 

Language: No dialogue 

Genre: Animation Fantasy 

CURATED BY NOOR AMYLIA HILDA 

THE HANDMAIDEN 

This provocative psychological thriller features a mesmerising 

narrative where an event is witnessed from multiple perspectives, 

each one revealing even more eyebrow raising truths than the last. 

Originally inspired by Sarah Walter’s novel, Fingersmith, that 

was set in Victorian era England, The Handmaiden is adapted into 

a Korean setting set in the 1930s when it was under Japanese rule. 

It’s a tale full of deceit, seduction and mind-games and breathtaking 

cinematography. 

Language: Japanese, Korean 

Starring: Kim Min-hee, Kim Tae-ri, Ha Jung-woo and Cho Jin-woong 

MANHUNT 

This police crime thriller by 

master of action cinema John 

Woo is a cinematic, almost 

parody-like, action-packed film 

that will be familiar to fans of 

the Hong Kong director’s work. 

Set in Osaka, Japan and based 

on the Japanese novel Kimi 

yo Fundo no Kawa o Watare 

by Juko Nishimura, the movie 

stars Zhang Hanyu as a Chinese 

lawyer who is framed for 

crimes that he didn’t commit. 

Similar to Woo’s previous 

work, there’s plenty of plot 

twists and over-the-top action 

that’s bound to keep you on the 

edge of your seats. 

Language: Japanese, English and 

Mandarin 

Starring: Zhang Hanyu, 

Masaharu Fukuyama, Qi Wei, 

Ha Jiwon and Jun Kunimura 


24

NEWS | MUSIC 

Familiar Names, New Tunes 

Highly anticipated new releases from some of the biggest names in the scene. 

“If you’re old enough, you remember a 

different JAY-Z, the JAY-Z who became king 

of New York through sheer, sneering, cold, 

unemotional, arrogant confidence,” 

- Tom Breihan , Stereogum 

HIGH FLYING BIRDS 

NOEL GALLAGHER 

Noel Gallagher’s third 

solo album with High 

Flying Birds, Who Built 

The Moon? has already 

garnered some great 

reviews ahead of its 

release in November 2017. 

The former Oasis 

member took two years 

on this album as a follow 

up to 2015’s Chasing 

Yesterday and features 

collaborations with Paul 

Weller and former The 

Smiths guitarist Johnny 

Marr who plays guitar 

and harmonica leads in If 

Love Is The Law. 

While Gallagher’s 

latest album provides 

a more upbeat tempo 

compared to his previous 

solo works, it still carries 

the same bold voice, 

rhythms and sing-along 

anthems familiar to Oasis 

fans. 

RED PILL BLUES 

MAROON 5 

Three time Grammy 

award winners Maroon 

5’s latest album Red Pill 

Blues doesn’t disappoint. 

With special appearances 

by A$AP Rocky, Julia 

Michaels and Kendrick 

Lamar among others, the 

15 track album features 

catchy singles such as 

What Lovers Do and the 

mega hit Don’t Wanna 

Know which was ranked 

top 10 in 10 different 

charts in different 

countries. 

The album stays true 

to the band’s upbeat, 

dance driven tunes but 

with a bit more electronic 

inspiration thrown in this 

time. 

SONGS OF EXPERIENCE 

U2 

As a follow up to their 

2014 hit album, Songs of 

Innocence, U2 is releasing 

their 14th studio album 

taking inspiration from 

Irish poet, novelist and 

Trinity College Dublin 

Professor Emeritus 

Brendan Kennelly’s advice 

to lead singer Bono to “write 

as if you’re dead”. 

The result is an album 

with tracks that are a lot 

more personal and intimate 

than the band’s former 

work. The album is quite 

melancholy too, especially 

on tracks such as You’re the 

Best Thing About Me and 

the opening track, Love is 

All We Have Left. It’s a new 

yet familiar side to U2 that 

will definitely be a delight 

to their loyal fans. 

Our Pick... 

PACIFIC DAYDREAM 

WEEZER 

One year after the 

release of their 

White Album, 

Weezer has released 

Pacific Daydream, 

their 11th studio 

album filled with 

lyrics reminiscent 

of days spent at the 

beach with track names like Mexican Fender, Beach 

Boys and Feels Like Summer. 

In the opening track, Mexican Fender, Weezer 

frontman Rivers Cuomo was inspired by a cute nerdy 

girl at the popular musical instrument repair shop 

Truetone in Santa Monica, only to find out she isn’t 

single. Such is the emo-pop lyrics and melodies that 

remain true to the American band’s alternative rock 

tunes from their previous work, only this time, with 

a heavier Californian pop-rock influence that almost 

mimics Beach Boys-esque riffs. 

CURATED BY SHARMINI M.RETHINASAMY 


BEAUFIX APPLIANCES SDN. BHD. (1238069-T) 

68, Jalan TSB 9, Kota Damansara, 47000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. 

T +603-6156 6888 F +603-6156 1818 E enquiry@beaufix.com W www.beaufix.com 

Beaufix reserves the right to make changes to the models, specifications, construction, colors and materials in order to conform with 

technological developments and as part of normal product development.Colors on print may differ from actual products. 

Sole Distributor:

Mirror 

and an Oven 

Reflection of Your Lifestyle 

FL Slim Hood FL One Touch FL Steam Oven FL Blast Chiller 

36 

MONTHS 

WARRANTY

HOROSCOPE 

IS 2018 GOING TO 

THE DOGS? 

Find out what the Year of the Dog has in store for you. 


28

HOROSCOPE 

Rat 

It’ll be a fast-moving 

year for the rat. 

Events switch 

from highly 

positive to 

extremely 

negative with 

businesses facing financial loses. Take the cue – 

it’s also not a good time to start a new business. 

Take a backseat and refrain from spending 

lavishly or investing in property and capital 

purchases. Those who are creative including 

writers, artists and actors, may see a slight growth 

in their careers or enjoy a giant leap forward. 

Others may be rewarded for their loyalty and 

persistence. Avoid discussions and disagreements 

which will transform into heated arguments. It’s 

not a good year for love and romance. Focus on 

friendship for now. Wait it out till next year and 

it might just grow into romance. Those already 

in a relationship, pay heed as arguments may be 

more frequent. 

Ox 

Be thrifty as it’s not the best of years for the 

ox. Beware as hidden competitors and enemies 

will rear their ugly head at the least auspicious 

time. Your emotional state is volatile and far 

from calm. It will have a negative impact on 

an already difficult year. To balance this out, 

it’s best to focus on friendship and loyalty over 

profit. Stay put and focus on what’s at hand, and 

have no doubt, your friends will have your back. 

There are areas that are safer than others and 

these include businesses that focus on creativity. 

Nevertheless, steer clear and do not invest in a 

loan to diversify, as the year is already lined with 

financial losses. Romance is positive but bear in 

mind, traditional connections trump love at first 

sight. Best to avoid any form of disagreements 

until 2019. 

Tiger 

Tigers and dogs make a great combination. 

There is wealth in the cards and those 

employed will see an increase in 

their income. Those who have made 

investments will start to reap the 

benefits. Look out for lawsuits, traffic 

offences and arguments that get blown 

out of proportion. 

Focus on selfcontrol 

and 

move forward 

carefully. 

Respect 

relationships 

with the people 

around you. Be 

mindful of selfdiscipline 

and 

control to avoid losing 

what you could gain 

this year. Whilst love 

isn’t on the cards, lay 

the groundwork even 

though there aren’t 

opportunities or time for romance. 

Nevertheless, if work and money are 

running smoothly, there is a possibility 

of meeting more people or spending time 

with a loved one, which could pay off. 

Rabbit 

This year looks good after a rough 

2017. Even though there is the 

possibility of a small loss, there’s 

a light at the end of the dark 

tunnel with increased money 

and even fame and fortune. 

Those employed will find 

themselves promoted with a 

raise. Business owners will 

find their businesses – 

anything that promotes 

creativity – flourishing. 

It is a good year for 

rabbits to market their 

services. Relationships will 

make new breakthroughs 

with opportunities to meet ‘the 

one.’ However, beware if you are a 

man. You could easily be taken in 

by the wrong woman, so take it slow. 

There’s a good chance of financial 

loss and a quick split should you 

not heed this advice. 


HOROSCOPE 

Dragon 

Not a lucky year for the dragon; rather rocky 

indeed. There will be loss of money and events 

that will affect you negatively. Steer clear of 

arguments and disputes as they will escalate out 

of hand. Changes are probable, as the dragon has 

nothing to lose. The dragon might do well to start 

a venture on the side if the investment is small. 

Cut down on expenditure and do not invest in 

anything risky. Save what you have and only 

spend small amounts where a loss will not be to 

your detriment. Obstacles, arguments, disputes 

and plain bad luck are in store. All this won’t be 

made better by poor relationships, so practice 

some self-control and discipline when dealing 

with others. Tread carefully when it comes to 

love. Spouses will need special care to keep their 

marriage in check. For the single dragon, slow 

and steady wins the race. 

Snake 

Much of the snake’s ability will be rewarded 

during this period. You will win big in your 

job. People who have helped you out of a 

difficult situation will become friends. If you 

are in a business, it will work out well. New 

inventions, discoveries and innovations will 

pay big dividends and your marketing 

campaigns will be rewarded. Watch 

your tongue because the opportunity 

for disputes to arise from even mild 

words is high. Avoid potential conflict 

by smiling more and talking less. 

Listening is key to getting you far. 

Love is on the cards, as you will meet 

someone where attraction is mutual. 

Existing relationships will flourish but 

ensure intense emotions don’t impact 

negatively on your beloved. 

Horse 

Compatible with the dog, the 

horse will relish all the good 

aura 2018 has to offer. Doors 

will open for the horse’s day 

job but not necessarily in a 

business venture. As it is a year of 

unexpected expenses for most, pay 

heed and save or invest conservatively 

with any extra income that may come 

your way. Analyse where your money is 

being spent and plug any holes. Best to not get 

involved in disputes, gossip, angry discussions, 

and the like. Romance is sexy and exciting but 

also rocky. Avoid long-term relationships. Just 

enjoy. 

Goat 

It’s a bit of a mixed bag for the goat. Keep your 

life in order by facing stumbling blocks with 

courage and persistence. The stress of this 

will be mitigated by new opportunities that 

come your way. This comes by way of highly 

influential people, hence you should cultivate 

your relationships. Your attitude is crucial in 

maintaining success. Business ventures will reap 

the rewards. As an employee, you will do well and 

will be rewarded for 

competence and 

service. Don’t give 

others who you are 

not well acquainted 

with the ammunition 

to work against you as 

this will pose challenges. 

Where relationships 

are concerned, it’ll 

be largely stable but 

nothing overly exciting. 

Just avoid anything that 

would annoy you. 


30

HOROSCOPE 

Monkey 

It’s not a good year for the 

monkey. Nevertheless, all is 

not lost. If you are studying 

and wish to embark on 

something different and 

change directions, this would 

be the year to do it. You are 

not going to make any extra 

income this year so just stick to 

your job and do it well. Changes 

at the workplace could happen, 

so it is best to cut down on expenses. Should you 

be offered a promotion or different job scope, it 

will work out well as it offers an opportunity to 

learn new skills. The monkey is doomed where 

relationship matters are concerned. It’s best to 

treat all the people in your life with an extra dose 

of friendliness and respect. Love will be volatile 

so plan ways to please your partner. This will help 

your relationship survive. In addition, travelling 

will be a good option. 

Rooster 

It is not a totally dismal year for the rooster as 

there are some nice moments to look forward 

to. If you are in business, you will have a steady 

flow of income, and as an employee you are in 

line for a promotion with increased pay. For 

both business person and employee, because the 

energy of the year is prone to fights and disputes, 

it’s best to play it safe in all aspects. This could 

lead to the loss of money so play everything by 

the book. Arguments are rife and will not benefit 

you, so keep clear. It’s going to be a slow year, and 

you will need to do everything in a methodical 

way with evidence that you did it. Marriages 

could bring change, whether a child is born or 

a divorce as a result of an affair. Those who are 

single may find themselves more serious about 

a long-term partnership, and this could lead to 

marriage. 

Dog 

It’s a rather topsy-turvy 

year for the dog with 

one day being lucky 

and the next day, not 

so lucky. Due to your 

friendly nature and kind 

disposition, you have the 

ability to turn dismal days 

to your favour. Just don’t 

let your emotions get the 

better of you as it could 

go badly if you are in a 

dispute. Financial fraud 

may haunt you but don’t 

be tempted to go down that 

path again. Steer clear and stick to the rules. Don’t 

expand your business or ask for a raise. Don’t hang 

onto the promises of those who would take what you 

have. You could make loads of money in 2018 and 

lose it just as quickly. Don’t get overly emotional, as 

you have to practice self-control not to get involved 

in fights. Less involvement is best, and the situation 

will remedy itself. Focus on entertainment and the 

arts this year. One of the biggest challenges this 

year is your health. You may suffer a breakdown 

or accident and it could cost you a hefty sum. Take 

the time to do things with care and diligence. For 

love and romance, it’s a rocky road ahead. Make 

friends and don’t dominate your 

partner or you stand to lose 

the relationship. There 

could also be a marriage 

on the cards for those 

who are single. 

Pig 

The pig gets lucky this 

year being blessed with 

prosperity and auspicious gettogethers. 

Because all outcomes 

are dependent on the events that 

precede them, this will only come to a pass if the pig 

behaves and considers the energy of the dog year. 

Employees stand to benefit if they show skill and 

foster good relations with other co-workers; likewise 

for the business person. Personal relationships will 

be a decisive factor in wealth creation for the pig, 

hence you will need to work hard. Marriage is on 

the cards for those in a relationship and single pigs 

can look forward to romance. With disputes and 

arguments posing as obstacles for progress, practice 

self-control and pace yourself. 


ADVERTORIAL 

FOR THE LOVE OF TREES 

With Mother Nature on their side, Art of Tree brings home furnishings to a whole new level. 

Jeffrey Yang and wife, Joey Woo, have made 

fallen urban trees their business, one that 

has garnered a seven-figure money-spinner. 

Odd shaped wood slabs appealed to Jeffrey, 

who was initially in the business of exporting 

ornamental fishes. He soon became an avid 

collector of nature’s little wooden treasures. 

His collection grew and so did the prospects 

of turning his hobby into a business. 

Turning his hobby into a business was an 

accidental one. Their bespoke showroom, 

located In the industrial surroundings of 

Kampung Baru, Subang , was intended to 

exhibit Jeffrey’s personal collection. 

With a little help from Mother Nature, who 

provides exceptional pieces of raw materials 

with beautiful and diverse wood grains, Jeffrey 

works around the woods’ imperfections and 

irregularities to form masterpieces. 

Art of Tree offers an array of masterfully 

designed dining tables, coffee tables, and 

benches to less common items such as wall art 

pieces and pedestals. Each and every piece 

is unique, hence making them all the more 

special and valuable. 

The company procures these beautiful raw 

materials from developed areas. The species 

are carefully selected by town councils for 

their fast-growing attributes and widespread 

canopy to lend shade in urban developments. 

These date as far back as the colonial times. 

Jeffrey procures these pieces at the end of 

their lifespan. Instead of being incinerated 

and leaving a hefty carbon footprint, Jeffrey 

takes them in and weaves a little magic. With 

the use of glass and resin to fill up the natural 

cavities and decay found in wood, Jeffrey 

turns an otherwise imperfection into an eyecatching 

work of art. Powder coated steel 

for base legs for table-tops give an aesthetic 

finish to dining tables. 

The question of sustainability has always 

been foremost in people’s minds. As the 

business involves the use of salvaged trees and 

that supply could be limited, the couple are 

aware that the naysayers would quickly jump 

at the possibility that they would eventually 

derive their raw material irresponsibly. 

While making a conscious choice to only 

use salvaged trees could be a challenge to 

grow their business exponentially, they are 

confident that faith in their creative ability to 

produce cutting-edge ideas will not limit their 

business capabilities.

THE HOME 

New 

Beginnings 

Key accents for the new home 

this New Year. 

CERAMIC CULTURE 

Everyday ceramics teach us about humility and to access things with love and 

small touches. The Dine ceramics from tinekhome is full of Asian richness, Japanese 

inspiration and invitations to slow down and enjoy the details and materials 

of the ceramics, as well as the taste and smell of the served food. The elegant 

porcelain bowls bring magic to the dinner table through the texture and colours 

of the glaze. The use of elegant porcelain and genuine craftsmanship make the 

natural calmness of the material go hand-in-hand with the exclusive simplicity 

culminating in a beautiful milky white magic, dramatic dark tones, and marvellous 

green colours. Let the ceramics find balance in your home and experience how 

lively the white glaze is when it reflects light, or how deep the dark glaze is when 

the darker colours absorb light. 

www.tinekhome.com 


34

THE HOME 

SOM-E KIND OF WONDERFUL 

The ELISE SOM brand prides itself on being ethically 

responsible, cruelty free and eco-conscious while still 

upholding the luxury of their products. ELISE SOM is 

certified RSPO and the linens are GOTS certified, 100 

per cent organic cotton. 

Elise’s work is rooted in nature, culture and 

traditions. They utilise the handiwork of local artisans 

to uphold tradition, and invest in the communities 

their products are made in. The new Cube collection is 

made of 95 per cent recycled glass. Using components of 

water, wine or beer bottles, broken TV screens, mirrors 

and seashells, the furniture is proudly sourced and made 

locally in the UK. The collection consists of modular 

stools that transform into side tables and each piece can 

incorporate a charging device. 

www.elisesom.com 

KAYNE RESIST 

In contrast to some flashier forays into decor by other renowned 

designers, Jenni Kayne’s line prioritises comfort and quality for 

a collection of accessories that reflect Kayne’s own laid-back, 

California style. The 30-piece assortment ranges from lush, 

alpaca throws and pillows, handwoven by a fair-trade women’s 

collective in Peru and linen pillows in neutral tones, to candles 

hand-poured in Los Angeles. The home collection is cosy, 

timeless, organic, natural, special, and effortless. 

www.jennikayne.com 


THE HOME 

The World 

is Your Oyster 

How to decorate your home with a favourite 

destination in mind. 

WORDS BY GABRIELLE FAGAN/PRESS ASSOCIATION/THE INTERVIEW PEOPLE 

Be inspired by those exotic, faraway places you have visited to create a holiday vibe all 

year round. 

Holidays may be just a memory but take inspiration from your favourite 

destination for your decor and you’ll enjoy that vacation vibe all year round. 

“Destination decor is on the rise as homeowners seek to evoke far-flung styles that last 

well beyond their travels,” says Samantha Parish, interior design account manager at bed 

specialists Hypnos. 

“What we see and experience on our holidays has an increasing influence on our homes. 

Few of us can resist a souvenir from our favourite or most interesting destination – choose 

well and it can be the inspiration for a whole new look, or simply add an instant international 

feel to a space. 

“Soft furnishings such as bedding, rugs, curtains and throws can also change the 

dynamic of your interior, transforming it into anything from an Asiatic-inspired retreat to a 

Mediterranean getaway.” 

BRING THAT TROPICAL FEEL INDOORS 

Jenny Hurren, founder of the eclectic Out There Interiors, says: “While many of us love the 

idea of an outdoors lifestyle, the climate can make it somewhat tricky. 

“One way to achieve that sultry feeling is by embracing the tropical interiors trend as it 

allows us to create our own interior paradise that can be adapted all year round. 

“Big leafy palms, rustic honey-coloured woods and touches of black conjure jungle vibes for 

every room of the home. Simply adapt with splashes of bright, vibrant tones for the summer 

months, and switch in plums and navy colourways for an updated winter feel. 

“The jungle trend is a strong look, but surprisingly versatile, warming up the wet 

days.” 


36

HOW TO DECORATE WITH 

HOLIDAY SOUVENIRS 

1. Display your smaller worldly 

goods on beautiful trays 

as this helps prevent them 

from getting lost or dusty on 

shelves. 

2. Put your travel treasures 

on trunks, ornate boxes 

or chest of drawers in 

varying sizes. These highly 

functional pieces can double 

up as coffee tables, shelves to 

showcase ornaments and art 

pieces. 

3. Stack your photographyfilled 

coffee table books to 

celebrate your travels. They 

make eye-catching tabletop 

displays and evoke fun 

memories from your travels. 

4. Pillow cases and other 

assorted soft furnishings 

are such a no-fuss souvenir 

to bring home. They travel 

well and can make a brilliant 

addition to a living area. 


THE HOME 


38

THE HOME 

WORK THE CARIBBEAN THEME 

Sian O’Neill, head of marketing and online at Topps Tiles, 

says: “Using precious memories from trips abroad provide ideal 

inspiration for homeowners, as they look to introduce exotic 

influences into their living space. 

“The Caribbean vibe is particularly popular and can be easily 

emulated with the right colour scheme and accessories. This 

trend celebrates vibrant tones – from the lush greens of island 

foliage to the crystal blues of turquoise seas; the combination of 

these colours creates a space which radiates warmth and holiday 

happiness. 

“Style-conscious homeowners should also consider 

incorporating accents of punchy pink – opt for hues of seashells 

and flamingo feathers for an attention-grabbing look. 

“Once complete, homeowners will be able to immerse 

themselves in true Caribbean-style decor that lets them indulge 

in a year-round vacation from the comfort of their own home.” 

“The Caribbean vibe is 

particularly popular and 

can be easily emulated with 

the right colour scheme and 

accessories.” 


THE HOME 

EMBRACE THE EASTERN 

PHILOSOPHY 

Jenny Hurren believes an Eastern theme can 

be striking with its mix of extravagance and 

simplicity. 

“Nothing says ‘holiday’ like an Easternstyle 

interior,” she says. “Jewel colours, 

indulgently sumptuous fabrics and decadent 

patterns are perfectly suited to the neutral 

background of contemporary spaces. 

“You can achieve a wonderful effect 

by combining extravagant detailing with 

simple black, white and bronze pieces, for 

an everyday look that’s both usable and 

beautiful. 

“Channel the riads of Marrakesh in 

your own home, with statement lighting 

and accent cushions, for a hint of holiday 

all year round.” 

“Jewel colours, 

indulgently 

sumptuous fabrics 

and decadent 

patterns are 

perfectly suited 

to the neutral 

background of 

contemporary 

spaces.” 


40

THE HOME 


THE HOME | NATURAL SELECTION 

NATURAL 

SELECTION 

There’s no denying the reluctant celebrity architect, Kengo Kuma 

TEXT BY MUNA NOOR 

It’s impossible to wander the streets of 

Tokyo and not be beguiled by the work of 

contemporary Japanese architect Kengo 

Kuma. Stay in One@Tokyo in Oshiage or 

traipse past Asakusa Tourist Infomation 

Centre located opposite the impressive 

Sensoji temple; both are Kuma masterpieces 

and will not fail to draw your attention. 

While much of his work is located 

in Japan, you’ll find his work all over the 

world. Prolific by any measure, his firm 

Kengo Kuma & Associates, which has 

offices in Tokyo and Paris, works on a 

diverse range of projects that vary in both 

size and purpose: From ambitious social 

initiatives like hospitals, schools and railway 

stations to ID for hotels and boutiques; 

short run product design collaborations and 

installations, to large scale builds that occupy 

vast tracts of land. 

What makes his work distinct has been 

his approach to design and his view of the 

environment with which it interacts. It 

was in Anti-Object: The Dissolution and 

Disintegration of Architecture that he 

championed the idea of respecting ones 

surroundings rather than dominating 

them. This professional philosophy has 

manifested itself in a variety of ways; from 

how the structure is positioned against the 

land, to the types of materials he favours 

and the harnessing of natural elements 

to create a structure with a constantly 

evolving character. 

“For Kuma, wood 

is the material 

of the 21st 

century due to 

its strength, 

flexibility and 

ability to age and 

be replaced.” 


42

NATURAL SELECTION | THE HOME 

SUNTORY MUSEUM 

OF ART, TOKYO, 

JAPAN, OVERALL 

INTERIOR VIEW. 



HOSHAKUJI STATION, TOCHIGI, 

JAPAN, STAIRCASE VIEW. 

Much consideration is given to the setting in which 

his work is developed and it all starts with what Kuma 

calls “a conversation”. In a video interview for Arch Daily, 

Kuma reveals his methodology – walking the site, feeling 

out the reality of the place, and sensing its energy. The 

results have been astounding. Standing out among them 

is the Folk Art Museum in Hangzhou, China, which 

has been stepped against the sloping terrain, giving it 

the appearance of tumbling down the hillside from the 

forested peak. 

This melding with surroundings hasn’t always been 

his position. 

Like many young architects finding their feet, 

Kuma’s early style was informed by experimentation 

and his initial grounding in the history of European and 

American schools of architecture. 

An architecture graduate and professor at the 

Graduate School of Architecture at the University of 

Tokyo, ironically it was while studying at Columbia 

University in New York that Kuma was to discover 

a newfound respect for the traditions of Japanese 

architecture. This was furthered when his firm took to 

the bucolic Japanese countryside to spend their time 

learning from the country’s master craftsmen. At a time 

when the Japanese economy was struggling, this handson 

experience proved invaluable. 

It is this reinterpretation of traditional practices for 

the 21st century that has marked Kuma’s practice out 

from others and can be seen in the use of materials and 

his manipulation of them. A collaboration with Czech 

lighting brand Lasvit, for example, took the ancient 

Japanese technique of preserving timber by charring 

called yakisugi and used it to fashion a unique cracking 

effect on the blown glass of its line of pendant lamps. 

Kuma and his team also favour the use of natural 

materials like stone and wood. For Kuma, wood is the 

material of the 21st century due to its strength, flexibility 

and ability to age and be replaced. His firm has used timber 

extensively and in innovative ways: Moulded to form the 

eaves of Hoshakuji Station in Tochigi, as a latticed grid 

around the enigmatic Sunny Hills cake shop in Tokyo, or 

layering the facade of University of Tokyo’s computing 

facility like golden fish scales. The latter used the art of 

repetition to create something quite mesmerizing. 

TM | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 44


SUNNYHILLS CAKE SHOP IN 

AOYAMA, TOKYO. THE JOINT 

SYSTEM IN THE WOOD LATTICE 

IS USED IN MAKING SHOJI PAPER 

DOORS AND IS CALLED JIIGOKU 

GUMI. DESPITE ITS MODERN 

LOOK IT’S A TRADITIONAL 

METHOD USED IN JAPANESE 

ARCHITECTURE. 

45 

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 | TM


The elements are another important ingredient in 

Kuma’s work – wind, temperature, humidity and most 

importantly light. Employing a technique adapted from 

the traditional Japanese home or minka which lacks 

windows but instead used paper and rice straw to filter 

sun and moonlight; Kuma’s firm manipulates materials 

in unlikely ways to achieve the same effect. 

Among his most ingenious solutions has been the use 

of translucent walls. Creating bricks from polyethylene 

plastic, his firm created what appeared to be building 

blocks for a private member’s club in Beijing. If it were 

anywhere else it would have looked awkward and out of 

place but set within striking distance of the Forbidden 

City, the Beijing Tea House simultaneously stood out and 

adapted to its surroundings. 

A similar effect was used for a Japanese furniture 

manufacturer, this time using moulded ETFE plastic to 

create undulating outer walls and transparent PVC and 

mesh for its inner walls. This exploitation of natural 

light and the insulating properties of the materials 

additionally reduced energy use, which is an important 

consideration – after all, architecture and design are not 

merely about form but function. 

Beguiling as his work is, it is there to solve a 

problem. His technique of chequering, criss-crossing 

and lattices on facades, and repetitive patterns and use of 

textures, do this with aplomb. One need look no further 

than the Suntory Museum Of Art in Tokyo whose quiet 

minimalism creates a sense of space and calm, its moods 

changing with the time of day and seasons. 

By fashioning forms from materials, bending and 

folding in the style of origami, his structures are strong 

and beautiful. Take, for example, his use of perforated 

aluminium mesh on the exterior of the award-winning 

Hongkou Soho building in Shanghai. Resembling soft 

draping, like a skirt twirling at the ankles of some 

debutante, it appears to morph according to the pattern 

of light striking it. 

REGIONAL FUND FOR 

CONTEMPORARY ART (FRAC) 

OF THE PROVENCE-ALPES- 

CÔTES D’AZUR (PACA) 

“It is this 

reinterpretation 

of traditional 

practices for the 

21st century that 

has marked Kuma’s 

practice out from 

others and can be 

seen in the use of 

materials and his 

manipulation of 

them.” 


46


CHOKKURA PLAZA AND SHELTER, 

TOCHIGI, JAPAN 

ASAKUSA TOURIST INFOMATION 

CENTRE, CULTURAL 

INSTITUTION, ASIA, JAPAN 

Yet Kuma’s work is not without 

controversy. After beating out compatriot 

Toyo Ito to replace Zaha Hadid in the 

design and construction of Tokyo’s 

National Stadium for the upcoming 2020 

Olympics – already a controversial act on 

the part of the Japanese government – the 

government was then accused of using 

precious tropical woods dubiously sourced 

from the last remaining rainforests of 

Sarawak for concrete moulds. This not 

only contradicted Tokyo 2020’s vision of 

hosting the greenest games ever and the 

Olympic authority’s Sustainable Sourcing 

Code for Timber, it went against Kuma’s 

own ideals regarding people, nature and 

sustainability. 

Yet through it all, the brickbats and 

bouquets, Kuma is a studied man, his 

responses measured, his thoughts carefully 

considered, his outlook humble. In a 

January 2017 interview with architecture 

and design website Dezeen.com, Kuma 

openly admitted to being embarrassed by 

some of his buildings. He needn’t be. 

For all his protestations against 

architectural icons and their grandeur, 

Kuma has honed a distinct style, one that 

is quiet but no less effective or evocative. 

His is not about a cult of personality. In 

this modern age of Instagram fame, inyour-face 

self-promotion and celebrity 

you name it, footballer, chef, architect … 

Kengo Kuma lets you come to his work 

softly, like a true master. 


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TOP RANKING 

TROPICANA CORPORATION IS THE 

CONSUMERS' FAVOURITE 

TROPICANA SURPRIZE UPSIZE 

A MAGICAL SURPRIZE @ TROPICANA 

HEIGHTS 

BIG BOOST FOR TROPICANA IN Q3 

Prestigious. Award-winning. 

Quality. Innovative. High 

capital appreciation. 

These are just some of the 

signatures of the property 

projects undertaken by 

Tropicana Corporation 

Berhad. The following pages 

showcase some novel and 

stunning residential and 

commercial developments 

as further testament to 

the organisation’s flair in 

this industry. Tropicana 

Corporation hopes to create 

a more compassionate and 

supportive community, 

especially within its 

circles of influence. As 

a responsible developer, 

Tropicana Corporation 

continues to deliver on its 

responsibility to give back 

to society by supporting 

various charitable 

causes and participating 

in celebrations and 

community events.

PROPERTY NEWS | NEWS 

TROPICANA CORPORATION 

ACHIEVES TOP RANKING 

THE EDGE MALAYSIA TOP PROPERTY 

DEVELOPERS AWARDS HONOURS TEN OF 

MALAYSIA'S BEST PROPERTY LEADERS 

EACH YEAR; TROPICANA IS PROUD TO BE 

SELECTED ONCE AGAIN FOR 2017. 


Tropicana Corporation was ranked 

10th Top Property Developer in 

Malaysia at The Edge Malaysia 

Property Excellence Awards 

2017. The award was presented 

at a gala dinner at the Grand Hyatt Kuala 

Lumpur, with more than 450 real estate players 

and experts in attendance. 

In his speech, The Edge Media Group 

publisher and group CEO Ho Kay Tat noted 

that the objective of The Edge Property 

Excellence Awards (TEPEA) is to recognise 

and celebrate excellence in the real estate 

industry, starting with the ranking of the 

country’s top property companies which 

have shown consistent financial strength and 

delivered quality products to their customers 

to be used as home or investment assets. 

“We wanted to set a benchmark to 

50 

guide homebuyers and investors, and in 

the process, we believe it has also become a 

benchmark for property companies too. The 

end result has led to the overall improvement 

of the industry,” he said. 

The Edge Malaysia Top Property 

Developers Awards, the anchor of TEPEA, 

recognises Malaysia’s best property players 

based on their quantitative and qualitative 

attributes. The ranking is based on the 

conviction that the quantitative attributes of 

a developer alone are not sufficient to earn 

the title of an outstanding player. In short, 

a developer is not judged solely on how 

profitable it is, or the number of homes it 

builds and sells each year. This is imperative 

because Malaysian property buyers are 

becoming more discerning and demanding 

in terms of quality and innovation.

NEWS | PROPERTY NEWS 

People’s Choice Award 

TROPICANA CORPORATION BERHAD 

TROPICANA IS RECOGNIZED AND AWARDED WITH 5 HIGHLY-ACCLAIMED 

AWARD CATEGORIES THIS YEAR AT THE IPROPERTY DEVELOPMENT 

EXCELLENCE AWARDS (IDEA) BASED ON MARKETING, VALUE CREATION, 

INNOVATION, POTENTIAL CAPITAL APPRECIATION AND SUSTAINABILITY. 

TROPICANA CORPORATION IS THE 

CONSUMERS' FAVOURITE 

Tropicana Corporation was voted the ‘People’s Choice’ 

at The iProperty Development Excellence Awards 

2017. This special award category is a consumer choice 

award, selected by the Malaysian audience through 

an online voting process. Winners and finalists are 

recognised for their best efforts in brand building and 

project marketing efforts. 

This year at iDEA, hundreds of developments across 

Malaysia were evaluated and only those that met the criteria 

identified were invited to be judged by an acclaimed panel 

of advisors comprising some esteemed industry players. 

iDEA is organised by iProperty.com Malaysia with 

an advisory panel consisting of real estate professionals. 

iDEA recognises and awards the industry’s best with 

15 highly-acclaimed award categories, selected by 

the judges and consumers. A panel of eight experts 

from various fields related to the property industry 

select finalists and winners based on marketing, 

value creation, innovation, concepts, potential capital 

appreciation, sustainability and more. 



TROPICANA 

SURPRIZE UPSIZE 

WINNERS WERE 

DELIGHTED TO 

HAVE WALKED 

AWAY WITH 

A RM80,000 

INTERIOR DESIGN 

PACKAGE, AND 

THE GRAND 

PRIZE WINNER 

RECEIVED A FREE 

UPSIZE TO A 

BIGGER HOME. 

TROPICANA SURPRIZE UPSIZE 

Tropicana Corporation Bhd launched a new campaign 

called Tropicana Surprize Upsize. The campaign offered 

home buyers an opportunity to win a free upsize on a house 

purchased across six properties located in Tropicana’s 

signature townships and developments in the Klang Valley. 

Properties include high-rise apartments, serviced 

residences, and landed homes in Tropicana Gardens (Kota 

Damansara), Tropicana Heights (Kajang), Tropicana Aman 

(Kota Kemuning), and Tropicana Metropark (Subang 

Jaya). The campaign ran online from 11 November to 22 

December. 

Ung Lay Ting, senior executive director of Marketing 

and Sales said following the success of their ‘Just Bid It’ 

digital campaign in 2016, the engagement and awareness 

of the company’s townships and developments have grown 

tremendously. 

“More excitingly, our annual campaigns have 

developed a strong following and fanbase. Hence, the 

‘Tropicana Surprize Upsize’ is a much-awaited campaign 

ideated to meet the demands of the public and our home 

buyers. We always go all-out to be different. This year, we 

aim to introduce a campaign that is not only engaging, but 

addresses purchasers’ needs and wants,” he added. 

To be eligible for the promotion, participants had 

to purchase a Tropicana property during the campaign 

period which also gave them a chance to win an interior 

design package worth RM80,000 each. The winners were 

announced during a live draw at the end of December 2017. 

“We see the concept of an upsize or upgrade across 

various industries, from fast-food and hotel stays to 

flight tickets. We are proud to be the first property 

developer to offer the opportunity for our purchasers to 

upsize their home. 


52

NEWS | PROPERTY NEWS 

A MAGICAL SURPRIZE @ TROPICANA HEIGHTS 

Tropicana Heights went all out with activities to entice 

families to take part in the Tropicana Surprize Upsize 

contest. Visitors to the Tropicana Heights Properties on 

November 25 and 26 were treated to a mesmerising magic 

show and carnival. Activities such as sand art, a giant bubble 

magic show, juggling clowns, photo booths, popcorn and 

cotton candy as well as ice cream were just some of the 

treats enjoyed on these two days. There were even amazing 

prizes such as a Samsung Galaxy Tab S3, Samsung Note 8, 

iPhone 8 Plus, iPad Pro, or an Apple Watch! up for grabs. 

It was a fun-filled weekend amidst a scenic environment. 

A DAY OF CHRISTMAS WONDER FOR FAMILIES AT TROPICANA HEIGHT'S 199- 

ACRE FREEHOLD MASTER PLAN DEVELOPMENT. 



ABOVE ARE ARTISTS IMPRESSIONS FROM 

TROPICANA CORPORATION BERHAD'S 

EXPANDING PORTFOLIO OF DEVELOPMENTS. 

BIG BOOST FOR TROPICANA IN Q3 

Tropicana Corporation Berhad has 

announced its unaudited financial results 

for the third quarter ending 30 September 

2017. Q3 has higher progress billings 

from development projects which has 

boosted the Group’s revenue of RM463.5 

million. This is a positive rise of 29.8 

per cent compared to the corresponding 

quarter last year. For the first nine 

months, Tropicana’s revenue increased by 

28.7 per cent, registering RM1.3 billion 

compared to RM1.0 billion previously. 

The increase was mainly contributed by 

higher revenue recognition as a result of 

an increase in the progress of development 

works in the Klang Valley and northern 

region. The Group’s PBT increased by 

39.4 per cent from RM127.3 million to 

RM177.5 million, and net profit rose 46.4 

per cent to RM125.2 million against the 

corresponding period last year. While 

the short-term prospects for the industry 

are expected to remain challenging, the 

Group is confident that it will continue 

to demonstrate its resilience moving 

forward. This is backed by RM1.9 billion 

of unbilled sales, which will contribute 

strongly to the Group’s earnings over the 

next few years. 

Tropicana plans to further strengthen its 

brand presence and maximise shareholders’ 

value by unlocking the value of its 898.6 

acres of land bank with a potential gross 

development value of RM42.8 billion. 

Tropicana has declared a first interim 

single-tier dividend of 2.0 sen per share 

to date. 


54

NEWS | THE SWING 

OAKLEY 

Trillbe TM X Sunglasses 

www.oakley.com 

GALVIN GREEN 

Stella Golf Cap 

www.galvingreen.com 

TITLEIST 

Year of the Dog Pro V1 

and V1x Golf Balls with 

88 Play Numbers 

www.titleist.com 

Geared 

Up 

Storm the fairway and 

roam the course with 

these golf must-haves. 

CALLAWAY 

OptiColour Gloves 

www.callawaygolf.com 

OGIO 

Ogio Silencer Cart Bag 

www.ogio.com 

PUMA 

Ignite Disc Extreme Golf Shoes 

www.cobrapuma.com 


GALVIN GREEN 

Maxine Ladies Ventil 8 

Plus Skorts 

www.galvingreen.com 

PUMA 

Volition Asym Road 

Map Polo 

www.cobrapuma.com 


THE SWING 

TEE IN 

CHINA 


56

THE SWING 

Golf in China is a growing industry with numerous clubs being established. 

We uncover five stellar courses to whet your appetite. 

WORDS BY 

SHARMINI M.RETHINASAMY 

THE DUNES, 

SHENZHOU 

PROVINCE 


THE SWING 

olf in China attracts foreign investment and 

golfers who come from as far as Australia to play 

given the country’s inexpensive fees. The courses 

here have become renowned for their worldclass 

facilities and design, and it should come as 

no surprise that it is the location of choice for 

major tournaments: the WGC-HSBC Champions 

in Shanghai; the TCL Classic on Hainan Island; the Volvo 

China Open; and the BMW Asian Open. Amongst the 

country’s most successful golfers are Zhang Lianwei and 

Liang Wen-Chong. 

There are currently about 500 golf courses in China, 

the first of which was constructed in 1984. Mission Hills 

is one of the leading firms owning courses around the 

country. Its Mission Hills Golf Club near Shenzhen has 12 

courses, making it the world’s largest golfing complex. We 

list some links that are at the top of our list: 

1. The Dunes, Shenzhou Province 

Regarded as one of China’s top golf courses, The 

Dunes is located in Wanning, Hainan Island, in 

South China. This golf complex was fashioned by 

Tom Weiskopf and his design associate Phil Smith. 

There are two 18-hole golf courses – West and East – 

which were formerly used as an old watermelon farm. 

These predominantly Links-styled layouts test your 

golfing skills throughout your game. With massive 

dunes, local indigenous plant species combined with 

unparalleled breathtaking views, each hole provides 

a different experience. With many bunkers and tight 

fairways, The Dunes will play fast and long with ocean 

winds posing a challenge to any player’s strategy. Both 

courses are routed, in part, along the South China Sea 

and feature holes that touch pristine bays and beaches 

providing the finest golfing experience in the region. 

2. Spring City Golf & Lake Resort 

This premier integrated golf resort located in Kunming 

comprises of two championship golf courses: the 

Mountain Course designed by Jack Nicklaus; and the 

Lake Course by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The courses have 

been bestowed over 70 world-class awards since their 

inception in 1998. The Mountain Course has a natural 

undulated terrain coupled with challenging side hills 

and elevated greens and tees to provide hours of golf 

strategising. The natural beauty of this course amidst 

beautiful native pines, rocky outcrops and the stunning 

view of Yang Zonghai Lake provide a gorgeous backdrop 

to golfing challenges. The Signature Hole 8, Par 3 and 

the world famous Hole 18, Par 4 will definitely provide 

inspiration to the discerning golfer. The Lake Course, 

sprawled along the scenic Yang Zonghai Lake, is an 

invigorating play. The course steps down to the lake in a 

series of terraces and palisades providing a combination 

of spellbinding view and a challenging round of golf at 

the same time. The Signature Hole 8, Par 3 is deceptive, 

challenging and unforgiving. 

3. Mission Hills, Shenzhen 

Mission Hills is China’s highest rated golf and leisure 

resort, and the world’s largest golf club according to the 

Guinness Book of World Records. This golf complex 

features seven out of twelve 18-hole championship 

courses by Mission Hills in China designed by golf’s 

greatest legends and architects. The historic World 

Cup of Golf in 1995 was China’s first-ever international 

golf tournament held at the World Course. This course 

was designed by Jack Nicklaus and is heralded as one 

of the ten most significant and influential courses of 

the last 20 years, providing one of Asia’s best golfing 

experiences. Vijay Singh’s course includes a 150-yard 

beach bunker on the Par 4 third hole and the green 

complex at the Par 5 10th which is literally perched 

atop a rock wall. The Ozaki Course offers elevated tees 

and fairways flanked by naturally occurring slopes. 

Large areas of turf and wide fairways are punctuated by 

strategic bunkering. 

“The Mountain Course has a 

natural undulated terrain 

coupled with challenging 

side hills and elevated 

greens and tees to provide 

hours of golf strategising.” 


58

THE SWING 

SPRING CITY GOLF 

& LAKE RESORT 

JINSHI 

GOLF CLUB 

MISSION HILLS, 

SHENZHEN 


THE SWING 

JADE DRAGON SNOW 

MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB 

The Faldo Course is China’s first ‘stadium course’ 

featuring the region’s only island green at the Par 3 

16th. The 16th hole and drivable Par 4 15th are two 

of Asia’s most exciting holes. The Els Course follows a 

unique ‘core’ layout in which no two holes run parallel. 

The Zhang Lianwei was designed by the first Chinese 

golfer to compete in the Masters. It features design 

elements and green complexes borrowed from many of 

the world’s most famous golf venues and presents an 

ideal setting to introduce beginners to the game. The 

Peter Dye Course presents golfers an opportunity to 

encounter small pot bunkers, long tee to green waste 

areas, railroad ties used as sleepers and walkway steps 

framed by tall, native grasses to provide a sharp, visual 

contrast. 

4. Jinshi Golf Club 

Dalian Jinshi Golf Club, also known as Dalian Golden 

Pebble Beach Golf Club, was established in 1995. It is 

known as the waterfront golf course because it is located 

near the Huanghai Sea waterfront in the east. The Divine 

Tortoise Course is an 18 hole, Par 72 course with a 

beautiful coastal landscape and unique hill features with 

paths built along the seashore. Some greens are built on 

top of the hill, and some teeing grounds and greens are 

separated by a bay. All the greens are located at the head 

of the sea, which makes the golfing incomparably exciting. 

It’s no wonder it is listed in the world’s top ten courses. 

“It’s no wonder it is listed in the 

world’s top ten courses. Fairway 7, 

also known as the ‘Devil Fairway’, 

is the most challenging one and 

has gained a reputation as Fairway 

Number One in the world.” 

Fairway 7, also known as the ‘Devil Fairway’, is the most 

challenging and has gained a reputation as Fairway 

Number One in the world. 

5. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club 

The Jade Dragon Golf Club is currently the longest 

regulation Par 72, 18-hole golf course in the world, earning 

it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. The 

course ‘plays’ to a more traditional 7000 yards thanks to the 

effect of the altitude – at 10,000 feet above sea level, the ball 

travels some 20 per cent further. Set in a beautiful valley 

at the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the course 

was designed with on-site input from China’s number one 

golfer, Zhang Lian Wei. Three of the four Par 3s measure 

more than 260 yards and the shortest one is 236 yards long! 

This club offers the shortest Par 4 at 436 long and the fifth 

Par 5 plays to 711 yards, which is the longest Par 5 in the 

world. 


60

THE TIME | NEWS 

CHASING 

TIME 

Baume & Mercier honors racing legend 

Burt Munro 

www.baume-et-mercier.com 

UNVEILED IN MILAN IN NOVEMBER 2017 AT 

EICMA, the world’s most important motorcycle 

show, Baume & Mercier’s Clifton Club Burt 

Munro Tribute Limited Edition celebrates a 

hero of speed, while at the same time christening 

the new partnership with the Indian Motorcycle 

Company. 

The watch takes its name from Burt 

Munro, the record-breaking daredevil rider, 

immortalised in the 2006 film ‘The World’s 

Fastest Indian’ and starring Anthony Hopkins. 

Obsessed with speed, Munro spent 40 years 

modifying his 1920 Indian Scout using basic 

tools and engine parts made from salvaged 

metal. Following repeated visits to the famed 

Bonneville Salt flats in Utah testing out 

the limits of his bike, the then 68-year-old 

grandfather eventually set the under 1000cc 

record speed of 184.087 mph (296.11 km/h), a 

record that still stands today. 

Paying tribute to this 50th anniversary, 

Baume & Mercier’s Clifton Club Burt Munro 


62

NEWS | THE TIME 

THREE OTHER 

CHRONOGRAPHS 

TO COVET 

MIDO MULTIFORT SPECIAL 

EDITION CHRONOGRAPH (ORANGE) 

www.midowatches.com 

ROLEX OYSTER SEA DIVER 

www.rolex.com 

Tribute Limited Edition has been designed 

to capture the iconic spirit of America’s First 

Motorcycle Company, and celebrating the 

grit, determination and sheer passion of an 

extraordinary man. 

Limited to 1967 pieces, to recall the year that 

Burt Munro set his iconic record, the limited 

edition automatic features the number 35 – 

Munro’s lucky number – writ large in yellow in 

the chronograph seconds counter, an “Indian 

Red” calfskin strap to evoke the deep vermillion 

of the Indian Motorcycle Company, and a dial 

in a silver-colored with sandblasted and snailed 

finished to mimic the surface of the Bonneville 

Salt Flats. In addition the counterbalance of the 

chronograph seconds hand is the immediately 

recognizable Indian “I”; the 44mm stainless steel 

case has a tachymeter scale on the bezel with the 

record 184 mph, highlighted on it; and on the 

back, the famous Indian Headdress logo of the 

Indian Motorcycle Company is engraved, as well 

as the number of the limited edition. 

VICTORINOX INOX 

PROFESSIONAL DIVER 

www.victorinox.com 


THE LOOK | HOT OFF THE RUNWAY 

Twirls 

of Thrill 

A quirky touch to the traditional 

qi pao ensemble. 


64

HOT OFF THE RUNWAY | THE LOOK 

Oriental 

Cravings 

Hints of eastern charm for 

this New Year. 




A Brush 

of Colour 

Arty yet functional must-have! 


66


Cruise 

Control 

Turn up the heat in tropical wear. 




Arm Candy 

Fashion's favourite accessory that never goes out of date. 


68


Lilac Lust 

The must-have colour for this season! 



FASHION FEATURE 

THE ALLURE 

OF THE 

CHEONGSAM 

From swinging Shanghai to Suzie Wong, the slit skirt cheongsam 

has been thrust into modern, popular fashion consciousness. 

WORDS BY JEAN KNILL 

WARDROBE BY KHOON HOOI 

The current incarnation of the Chinese Cheongsam adorns lovely 

women the world over. The name evokes a vision of willowy, modellike 

beauties clad in figure-hugging, shiny fabric, buttoned up on the 

right, with high mandarin collars and sexy slit skirts. 

It hasn’t always been like that. The garment originated in northern 

China in the 17th century, the time of the Manchu rulers. The straight up 

and down, long dress with sleeves was first worn by women and later also by 

men. By the middle of the century, wearing it was the law, with execution 

the penalty for not conforming. Its name was different too. They called it a 

qipao, a word still used in the north of China, while people in the south call 

it by the name recognised in the western world – the cheongsam. 

Qipao means banner dress, and the origin of this name is political. 

The Manchu were all Banner People who were placed in an administrative 

system based on Eight Banners. The banners depict Chinese dragons on 

four different coloured backgrounds, with or without borders. Their nature 

was hierarchical, with the plain yellow, the bordered yellow and the plain 

white banners at the top of the tree, and initially under the direction of the 

Emperor. Originally set up to form armies, they later took on administrative 

duties and became the basis of a society made up of Manchus, Han Chinese 

and Mongols. Hence, their national costume was called a banner dress. 


70


As usual with everything Chinese, the 

qipao has a legend attached to it. High in the 

mountains in the north of the country lies the 

wondrous Jingbo Lake, which was formed when 

volcanic eruptions dammed the Mudanjiang 

River. It was here that a lowly fisher girl lived 

in the time of the Manchu. She had brains as 

well as beauty, and when she found her long 

skirt hampering her work, she made herself 

a dress with slits so that the skirts could be 

looped up when necessary. 

Meanwhile, the ruling emperor dreamed 

of making the beautiful fisher girl from Jingbo 

Lake his queen. He sent his courtiers to search 

for her and bring her to him. Of course they 

immediately fell in love, and the new queen 

brought her slit-skirted qipao to the palace of 

the emperor. So the ladies of the court all had 

to follow this new fashion. 

Traditionally the fabric used in the qipao, 

or cheongsam, was decorated with symbolic 

emblems. The Emperor always had a dragon 

facing outwards, while some of his courtiers 

wore dragons facing inwards, or dragons in 

profile. The Empress might also have a dragon 

motif, while other female members of the 

imperial household would have the phoenix as 

the emblem on their qipao. Other birds would 

decorate the gowns of lesser members so that a 

hierarchy was visible to all. 



“While the 

communist 

revolution of 1949 

paused the fashion 

developments in 

China for a while, 

refugees brought 

their clothing out 

of the country.” 

The common people might choose a flower 

symbol. The peony – China’s national flower – 

symbolises affluence and prosperity; the lotus, 

purity and loveliness; the chrysanthemum, 

longevity. Fish are also believed to bring 

prosperity. All these were common designs for 

the material of their garments. 

When the qipao became popular in the 

south, it was given the name cheongsam which 

simply means long dress in Cantonese. The 

qipao/cheongsam migrated south through 

China in the 20th century. By the 1920s, it 

was popular all over the country. It was also 

changing and becoming more like the close 

fitting, shorter version we recognize today. 

But it always retained the main features of the 

high mandarin collar and slitted skirt, and 

usually the right side buttoning. In the south, 

Shanghai became the cheongsam capital where 

fashion designers promoted them and factories 

mass-produced them. 

While the communist revolution of 1949 

paused the fashion developments in China for 

a while, refugees brought their clothing out of 

the country. The style soon became popular 

in Hong Kong, Singapore and other Asian 

countries, from where it reached Western 

fashion designers. Around the modern world, 

including in China, versions of the cheongsam 

are now worn for high society occasions, for 

party-going and for dressed-up events. 

They are also often chosen as uniforms to 

give an oriental flavor to services or events. 

For example, the medal bearers of the 2008 

Olympics in Beijing wore them, as did some 

of the participating teams in the opening 

ceremony. And we would not be surprised to 

find those delightful female flight attendants, 

on some of the eastern airlines, wearing them 

as they check seat belts and serve food and 

drink. Nor would we blink at a cheongsam-clad 

waitress in a Chinese restaurant anywhere in 

the world. 

The cheongsam is now available in many 

different versions and the average woman 

can usually find a type that suits her best. 

Different kinds of cheongsam can play up your 

best features and play down those you’d prefer 

to hide. 

For example, you can show off your 

beautiful shoulders and back with a cheongsam 

halter neck collar and low backed dress. 

Alternatively, you can choose between 


72


ALL CLOTHING SEEN, FROM 

KHOON HOOI 

sleeveless, short sleeves, or three quarter length 

if you want to hide the upper arm flabbiness 

that comes as we age. 

If you have a large behind, buy the 

cheongsam as a top and skirt, and make the 

most of the straight skirt with side slits. Get 

the separates as well if you have a large bust, 

choosing a simple top in a single color. 

Shorter women should avoid shoulder 

pads and overlong skirts. If your shoulders are 

broad, select a soft, silky fabric and never wear 

shoulder pads. But if you are all over skinny, 

choose a heavy brocade with a raised design. 

Some cheongsam collars are high, flattering 

anyone with a long neck. Those whose necks 

are short should seek out a lower collar line. 

You can find a cheongsam to suit any 

season. Light fabrics like cotton, silk and 

poplin suit summer’s warmer days. Satin 

and velor will keep you cozy in winter. The 

cheongsam even makes a beautiful white 

wedding dress, appearing at the same time 

demure and voluptuous. 

There is bound to be an event coming up 

in your life that calls for one, and you will feel 

beautifully feminine if you choose to wear 

your own Chinese Cheongsam. 


THE LOOK 

Eastern prints shine and hit new heights of allure. 

From left, on Alyona 

Sleeveless cheongsam 

in coral KHOON HOOI 

Short sleeved 

cheongsam in pink 

with embroidered motif 

MELINDA LOOI 


74

THE LOOK 


THE LOOK 

Graphic T-shirt and 

A-line brocade skirt 

GUCCI 

Crossbody bag 

MULBERRY 

Faux cheongsam collar 

MELINDA LOOI 


76

THE LOOK 

Multicoloured short sleeved 

cheongsam KHOON HOOI 

Gold bangle KATE SPADE 

NEW YORK 

Leather handbag MULBERRY 

Sunglasses MARC JACOBS 


THE LOOK 

Pink sweatshirt and 

sun print dress 

PAUL SMITH 

Faux cheongsam collar 

MELINDA LOOI 


78

THE LOOK 

On Alyona 

Embroidered cheongsam in soft pink 

KHOON HOOI 

On Ada 

Embroidered cheongsam in light 

green KHOON HOOI 

Sunglasses DIOR HOMME 

Handbag with floral applique 

KATE SPADE NEW YORK 


THE LOOK 


80

THE LOOK 

Left: Red lace 

cheongsam MELINDA 

LOOI 

Leather handbag with 

floral applique, gold 

earrings KATE SPADE 

NEW YORK 

Top: Floral prints silk 

cardigan (worn as a 

kimono top) and pants 

GUCCI 

Flower earrings and 

crossbody bag KATE 

SPADE NEW YORK 

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN FANG (M8 STUDIO) 

ART DIRECTION NOR HAMIMAH ABDULLAH 

STYLING VOONWEI @ THE STYLE ANIMAL 

MAKEUP & HAIR JOEY YAP 

MODELS ALYONA & ADA @ ANDREWSMODELS 


THE LOOK | KIDS FASHION 

Spring 

into style 

Get fashion savvy with the latest trends, 

no matter how small you are. 



82

KIDS FASHION | THE LOOK 


HEALTH 

Eat Your Way To 

Great 

Health 

in 

2018 

Start the New Year on a clean 

slate — and plate! 

WORDS BY 

SHEREEN KHOO 

Around this time of the year, New Year’s resolutions are 

set and many of the most popular resolutions focus on 

living a healthier lifestyle. Let 2018 be a year where 

you go further with food. Whether it is to start the day off 

right with a healthy breakfast or fuelling your body up with 

optimum nutrition, the foods you choose can make a difference 

and positively impact the rest of your day. Go back to basics by 

filling up your plate with the five food groups: Fruits, Vegetables, 

Grains, Protein and Dairy products. 


84

HEALTH 

FRUITS 

Fruits and vegetables fall into various 

colour categories including red, purple/ 

blue, orange, green and white. The 

colour denotes its unique disease fighting 

phytochemicals. Therefore, the right 

way to eat them is to select fruits and 

vegetables from different colour groups. 

The berry family (blueberries, cranberries, 

raspberries, strawberries, blackberries) 

are particularly rich in vitamin C, fibre 

and also a number of potent antioxidants; 

therefore they are known to be the star 

performers of the fruit family. 

According to the Malaysian Adult 

Nutrition Survey 2014, six out of 10 

Malaysian adults consumed fruits below 

the recommended two servings per day. 

This could be due to a lack of awareness of 

the importance of fruits or perhaps the fact 

that many fresh fruits have a short shelf 

life which leads to wastage. Frozen fruits 

are able to retain nutrients and can also be 

another option to increase fruit intake. Try 

incorporating frozen fruits into breakfast 

smoothies which will boost your nutrient 

intake first thing in the morning. 

VEGETABLES 

Low fruit and vegetable intake in itself is 

among the top 10 selected risk factors for 

global mortality. It is alarming to find that 

the same survey also revealed that 81.7 

per cent of Malaysian adults consumed 

vegetables below the recommended 

three servings per day. In another 

survey, it was found that 93.7 per cent of 

adolescents consumed vegetables below the 

recommended three servings per day. 

Find creative ways to increase 

vegetable intake especially when meals are 

prepared at home. 

• Add chopped onions, spring onions, 

green beans or shredded cabbage into 

fried noodles. 

• Serve vegetable based soups such as 

spinach soup or watercress soup as an 

appetizer. 

• Add tomatoes, shredded carrots or 

capsicums into your pasta dish. 

• Enhance the flavour of your broth 

by adding leeks, celery, tomatoes or 

carrots. 

• Modify recipes of pies or muffins by 

adding peas and shredded carrots. 

• Add cucumbers, lettuce and tomatoes 

into sandwiches. 

GRAINS 

Grains such as rice, noodles, bread and 

other cereal products provide energy. 

Choose unrefined or wholegrain cereals 

(e.g. brown rice, wholemeal bread, 

wholegrain pasta) for additional benefits 

of improving gut health, while helping to 

reduce the risk of chronic diseases. 

Rice is the staple food in Malaysia, 

just like in other Asian countries. If rice is 

preferred at main meals, choosing black 

rice, red rice or purple rice will increase 

intake of the antioxidant anthocyanins 

compared to white or brown rice. Ready to 

forgo rice and try other alternatives? Swap 

your rice with quinoa or amaranth for 

more fibre and protein. Quinoa also serves 

as a better source of iron and magnesium 

than brown rice and these minerals help 

you to build red blood cells and maintain 

healthy bone tissue. 


HEALTH 

DAIRY 

Milk is a nutritious food with a variety of 

essential nutrients, including calcium. Milk 

and milk products are recommended to be 

taken one to three times per day. Getting 

sufficient calcium from childhood through 

adulthood helps build strong bones and 

reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life. 

• Start your day with milk by adding 

low-fat high calcium milk into your 

morning cereal or oatmeal. 

• If you are a coffee drinker, have café au 

lait instead of a latte as the former uses 

more milk. 

• Having trouble falling asleep? Try 

a glass of milk before bedtime. 

Tryptophan, a naturally occurring 

amino acid found in milk protein has 

relaxing and calming properties. 

• Replace sweetened condensed milk and 

sweetened condensed filled milk with 

unsweetened or powdered milk. 

PROTEIN 

Protein is made up of smaller units known 

as amino acids. There are nine essential 

amino acids that cannot be made by the 

body and must be obtained from food. 

Omnivores are likely to receive ‘complete 

proteins’ containing all essential amino 

acids by eating meat, poultry, fish or eggs. 

Many plant-based proteins on the other 

hand, are incomplete proteins because they 

provide some but not all essential amino 

acids. But here is a piece of good news 

for those who adopt a vegetarian diet. 

Unlike other vegetarian sources of protein, 

edamame, a Japanese food favourite, 

contains all nine essential amino acids that 

the body requires but cannot manufacture 

on its own. Include steamed or boiled 

edamame served lightly salted as part of a 

varied diet or even as a form of a healthy 

snack to provide your body with wellrounded 

nutrition. 

SPICES AND HERBS 

Last but not least, spices and herbs may 

be used as a seasoning to replace and 

reduce salt intake and improve health. 

This offers an advantage because most 

spices and herbs have a particularly high 

antioxidant content, even in its dried form 

as the drying process leaves most of the 

antioxidants intact in the end product. 

Although spices and herbs contribute 

little weight in a meal, they may still be 

important contributors to our antioxidant 

intake, especially when used regularly. 


86

MAKE FITNESS 

YOUR LIFESTYLE 

TM 

PRESENT THIS TO ANY OF OUR CLUBS & RECEIVE A 3-DAY EXPERIENCE PASS * 

* Terms & Conditions Apply.

HEALTH | NEWS 

WELLNESS FROM WITHIN 

Chateau Spa and Organic Wellness Resorts recently released its La Therapie Culinaire 

dining concept at its French fine dining restaurant, L’assiette, comprised of seven new 

menus inspired by guests’ requests for dining options that meet special dietary needs. The 

new menus are designed to improve heart health, cleanse the body, offer low glycemic 

index food choices (for diabetic diets), and provide a balance of antioxidants, proteins, 

vitamins and minerals. 

The Chateau Spa & Organic Wellness Resort 

Berjaya Hills, KM48 Persimpangan Bertingkat, 

Karak Highway, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang 

Tel: 09-221 3888 

www.thechateau.com.my 

ALPINE ESCAPES 

Visitors at the recently opened Aman 

Le Mélézin Resort in the French Alps 

can now enjoy sublime relaxation at 

the resort’s new 767-square metre spa. 

The first of the spa’s two spacious floors 

will house five treatment rooms with 

two double suites, a signature Thai 

massage suite, a hammam bath, and a 

well-equipped yoga studio. The second 

floor offers experiential showers, a cold 

plunge pool, a relaxation lounge, a sauna 

and a Capri-stone hammam. 

www.aman.com/resorts/aman-le-melezin 

A MERRY LITTLE NEW YEAR 

Rest and relaxation marks the start of the New 

Year at the beachfront Four Seasons Jimbaran 

Bay Resort, where guests can get a fabulous 

new hairstyle with celebrity hair stylist Eric 

Rosado or feel their tiredness ebb away with a 

pampering pedicure, a hot stone yoga session 

or a cutting-edge transdermal facial from 

now till 10 January. Meanwhile, travellers 

at the riverside Four Seasons Sayan Retreat 

can expect traditional wellness and massage 

therapies up to 7 January, and revisit their 

childhood with a ‘sacred nap’ in a suspended 

silk cocoon on New Year’s Day. 

www.fourseasons.com/Bali 

WORDS BY TANIA JAYATHILAKA 


88

THE COOKBOOK 

NobuA BYWORD 

Nobu has an empire of nearly 40 restaurants and hotels with film 

star, Robert De Niro. Meet the man whose name and skills have 

made him a force to be reckoned with in Japanese cuisine. 

FOR JAPANESE 

CUISINE 

WORDS BY NICK CURTIS/THE TIMES/THE INTERVIEW PEOPLEI 

meet the world’s best-known Japanese chef, Nobu Matsuhisa, during his 

"Do I ever argue with 

Robert De Niro? Yes, it’s 

like a marriage." 

fleeting visit to Britain amid a typically jet-setting week. A compact, genial 

figure with cropped grey hair and smooth burnished skin, the 68-year-old 

has a punishing schedule supervising the global empire that he runs with his 

business partner Robert De Niro. It encompasses more than 30 restaurants and 

seven hotels serving a modern version of Japanese cuisine and hospitality to the rich 

and famous from Los Angeles to London, Beijing to Budapest, and Kuala Lumpur 

to Qatar. Some of the restaurants bear the chef’s surname, including the flagship he 

opened in 1987 in LA, but it’s as Nobu that he has become a one-man brand. 

“ I travel 10 months of the year,” he says. “ This week I went back to LA for one 

day, now London, then Moscow. They are going to send us on a private jet. This is a 

good deal.” He sounds ridiculously pleased, like a simple sushi chef whose pursuit of 

perfection has paid off. Which, deep down, is possibly what he still is. 

From the outside, Nobu Hotel Shoreditch in east London looks like a spacebattleship, 

its roof terraces bristling like gun turrets, but inside, its all understated 

calm with blond wood predominating in the restaurant and spa. Matsuhisa’s suite 

has subdued lighting and leather furniture. At one point the lights mysteriously 

dim. “ Maybe time’s up,” he says. 

His visit is to mark the launch of a new spa and wellness centre at the hotel. Its 

signature treatment, Nobu Zen, will set visitors back up to £245. Matsuhisa, who 

has just put the new facility to the test, sweats the details of his own regimen. “After 

a flight, the body, the muscles, are tight, tired, so I do a lot of exercise — treadmill, 

swimming if there is a pool. After the gym, it’s good to have a massage. I had a shiatsu 

massage in the spa. Now I’d like to go to bed for a couple of hours, but they’re keeping 

me working.” 

A pile of cookbooks on the coffee table waits for his signature. After our chat, 

he is hosting dinner in Shoreditch for about a hundred people who have paid a tidy 

sum for the pleasure; the next night he is marking the 20th anniversary of his British 

flagship, Nobu Park Lane, with a party. There are eight more Nobu hotels in the 

pipeline in locations as diverse as Toronto, Riyadh, Sao Paulo and Bahrain, and more 

restaurants to come. “ Jet lag is tough,” he says. “ I used to take a sleeping pill, but I 

don’t take any drugs any more.” 


90

THE COOKBOOK 


THE COOKBOOK 

What about booze? Gordon Ramsay swears by red wine to 

combat jet lag. Although Chef Nobu — as everyone calls him — 

has been credited with popularising the rice-wine saké in the 

West as he did sushi in the nineties, I’ve heard that he prefers 

tequila. “ No, no, no, I am not an alcoholic,” he says with a laugh. 

When he’s celebrating a special occasion with his staff, his 

managers will sometimes break out the Mexican spirit. “ But not 

every day. Maybe two or three times a year.” 

He enthuses about the wine and saké in his restaurants, again 

sold under his name, but 

says that he now drinks 

less. Eating is another 

matter. “ I am a chef, so 

I have to eat everything; 

taste what my chefs make.” 

Although arguably a 

forerunner of the cleaneating 

movement, he has 

no time for it. “A lot of 

people are vegetarian or 

gluten-free because they 

want to lose weight and 

be healthy, but for me the 

way to do that is to eat 

everything and exercise.” 

His tastes are broad. “ I 

like Italian, Chinese, Greek, 

but simple cooking,” he 

says. “ In London, a long 

time ago, I’d go to the River 

Café, where I knew the chefs 

[Ruth Rogers and Rose 

Gray]. Or Giorgio Locatelli, 

who’s a close friend.” When 

he opened Nobu Park Lane 

in the Metropolitan hotel 

in 1997, he had a soft spot 

for the tapas at El Pirata, a 

restaurant behind the hotel. 

He used to travel with his 

own knife, but now each 

outlet of the Nobu Empire 

keeps one for him. And a 

pair of gym shoes. 

His globetrotting habits 

are partly to ensure that 

every outlet adheres to the 

‘Nobu Style’. Innovation is 

fine within reason — it has, 

after all, enabled him to branch out from restaurants to hotels, spas, 

sauces, dried miso and tableware — but a certain Japanese essence 

must be preserved. When a new Nobu opens, local ingredients are 

used and Matsuhisa is always keen to see what dishes his chefs, of all 

nationalities, come up with. “ I never say no, but I try to make it better 

as a challenge,” he says. He has, however, outlawed the use of sausage 

in a Hawaiian Nobu and replaced the bun in a Wagyu slider with a 

tofu cake. 

He recently gave The New York Times a tour of the new 

sushi bar in his Los Angeles home (he has lived in the US since 

the eighties), where he makes food “once or twice a year. When 

I make sushi in a restaurant it is a business, but I love to make 

sushi, so I want to share my passion with my family.” He jokes to 

friends that he has a private chef at home — his wife. 

Matsuhisa has been married to Yoko, who helped him to 

run the business when he was starting out, for 45 years and they 

have two daughters: The elder runs Nobu Tokyo, the younger is a 

housewife in Los Angeles and 

each has a daughter, one aged 

seven and one aged three. “ I go 

to Japan once a month and I see 

[the other side of] my family 

whenever I go back to LA,” 

Matsuhisa says, adding that 

his absences keep his marriage 

fresh. “ But I call or email my 

wife two or three times a day. 

Communication and trust are 

important.” 

He was born in the 

Saitama province of Japan 

in 1949. His father, a lumber 

merchant, was often away 

from home, and died in an 

accident when Matsuhisa 

was young. The chef’s desire 

to travel was sparked by his 

father’s lifestyle — one of his 

most powerful childhood 

memories is of his father 

receding into the distance on 

his motorcycle. 

Raised mostly by his 

grandmother, Matsuhisa 

got his first job at 17 

as a dishwasher in the 

restaurant Matsue-sushi in 

Shinjuku, Tokyo. He slowly 

worked his way up the 

kitchen pecking order, and 

shortly after he married 

Yoko at the age of 23, he 

opened his own sushi bar 

in Peru with the backing 

of a former customer. 

After they fell out over his 

insistence on using the best 

ingredients, he moved to Argentina, but that didn’t work 

out either, and he returned shamefacedly to Japan. Another 

former customer set him up in a restaurant in Alaska, 

which went well until it burnt down. 

“ I almost tried suicide,” he says, making a throat-slitting 

motion, “ but even though I lost everything I was healthy, 

which is why I woke myself up.” By now, with two daughters to 

support, he struck out on his own in Los Angeles, working in 


92

THE COOKBOOK 

restaurants where he invented some dishes that would 

become Nobu staples, including black cod with miso 

and soft shell crab sushi rolls. His own restaurant, the 

38-seat Matsuhisa in Beverly Hills, followed in 1987. 

The great and the good started to come, hungry for his 

healthy, simple fish. 

A waitress once whispered that Barbra Streisand 

was in. Matsuhisa went to say hello, but didn’t know 

which woman at the table was the diva. And it was so 

busy that Tom Cruise was repeatedly turned down 

when he phoned for a table. “ He told his agent, Mike 

Ovitz, who is also one of my regular customers, who 

called me and said, ‘You really should take Tom 

Cruise’s reservations.’ ” 

These days, celebrities are shown more love and 

reciprocate in kind — check out Jennifer Lawrence 

with chopsticks in her mouth, goofing around for the 

paparazzi outside Nobu in New York. These days, Nobu 

ensures that a house table is kept free for famous walkins 

— the Beckhams having dinner in Los Angeles, say, 

or Kanye West popping in for lunch in Malibu — but 

back then, Madonna sometimes queued for a seat at 

Matsuhisa’s sushi counter. “ I didn’t know anybody,” he 

shrugs. 

That changed, to the point where he could extend 

the omakase concept of tailoring food to a customer’s 

tastes into the creation of a special Cindy Rice for Cindy 

Crawford. This caused problems when she ordered it 

in Nobu New York and no one knew how to cook it. “ I 

knew Cindy before she married,” he says. “ Now she has 

beautiful children and they come [to my restaurants] 

without their parents. It makes me very proud that there 

is a second generation.” 

Another visitor was De Niro. The actor first came 

with a regular — Roland Joffé, the director of The Killing 

Fields — and although Matsuhisa was unable to put a 

name to the famous face, he clocked the excitement in 

the restaurant. De Niro often returned when he was 

in Los Angeles, and became so enamoured of Nobu’s 

black cod and Hokusetsu saké that he asked the chef 

to open a restaurant with him in New York. Matsuhisa 

visited Tribeca, the down-at-heel neighbourhood that 

the actor was intent on developing, but he turned down 

the offer and De Niro opened the Tribeca Grill instead. 

Four years later, the star asked Matsuhisa to reconsider 

his offer — they have been partners since. “ Of course he 

is a great actor and the biggest Hollywood star, but we 

do business together and I appreciate him because he 

understands what I want to do,” Matsuhisa says. 


THE COOKBOOK 


94

THE COOKBOOK 

DO THEY EVER ARGUE? 

“ Yes, like in a movie,” he says with a laugh, 

pointing finger-guns at me. “ Sometimes 

arguments are good for the future. People have 

stress, they argue, and after, they understand 

each other more. Like a marriage.” I would not 

bet on De Niro winning: When Nobu Milan 

opened in partnership with Giorgio Armani, 

the chef persuaded the designer to accept his 

no-smoking policy in the dining room, and to 

make him a set of chef’s whites. 

The De Niro connection and the wider 

endorsement of the great and the good — 

none better than Kate Winslet’s assessment: 

“ Heaven on Earth, sex on a plate” — have 

led to some surprising turns in his life. 

He acted in Casino and Austin Powers in 

Goldmember, and “ when Donald Trump 

owned Miss Universe, I was a judge several 

years ago in Moscow, with [Aerosmith’s] 

Steven Tyler”. (The Trump daughters frequent 

his restaurants in New York and Aspen, but he 

has yet to create a dish for them: There’s no 

Ivanka Rice.) 

The English-language version of 

Matsuhisa’s autobiography is published today 

(it is, of course, titled Nobu). In spare style, he 

discusses his life, business and famous friends, 

but also what it is like to be a grandfather in the 

‘fourth corner’ of life. He was hit hard by the 

recent suicide of his childhood friend Sakai, 

who supported him through his early travails 

and designed the family’s Japanese holiday 

home in Hakone: He becomes speechless with 

tears when we discuss it. Unbeknown to him, 

Sakai’s construction business had suffered 

financial problems. Matsuhisa, calling from LA, 

noticed his friend sounded offhand. Irritated, 

he didn’t probe. 

“That is why I feel so guilty,” he says. “ If 

I had asked him and he talked to me about 

more money or what is going on, maybe 

I could have saved his life. But he died, so 

. . .” The loss has left him with a terrible 

sadness, but also a desire to embrace every 

opportunity that comes his way. “ I never 

think about retiring because I appreciate my 

life,” he says. “And I like to pass [my ideas] on 

to the next generation of people. Retirement 

means nothing to do for me. I like as much 

as possible to work, to see people, stay in the 

kitchens. This is my tomorrow. 


THE COOKBOOK 

DISHES 

CLUBHOUSE 

Tel: 03-7805 3935 

www.jojoitalianrestaurant.com 


Monday to Thursday 

11.00am to 11.00pm 

Friday to Sunday 

11.00am to 1.00pm 

BARRAMUNDI FISH WITH SAUTÉED 

BROCCOLI AND SPAGHETTI AGLIO OLIO 

Classic spaghetti in aglio olio style is given a 

boost with the addition of grilled barramundi 

and sautéed broccoli on the side. The 

barramundi is grilled to perfection with a 

slight crispy crust with juicy, fresh white flesh 

on the inside. The spaghetti, done al dente, is 

tossed lightly in olive oil with garlic and chilli 

flakes in the right proportion, and finished 

with a light sprinkle of chopped parsley. 

The sautéed broccoli serves as the perfect 

complement to the entire dish. 


96

THE THE COOKBOOK DISHES 

CLUBHOUSE 

Tel: 03-7804 8888 

www.facebook.com/ginshuitei 


Monday to Sunday 

Lunch 

12.00pm to 3.00pm 

Dinner 

6.30pm to 10.30pm 

JAPANESE YEE SANG 

The traditional Chinese New Year prosperity 

dish, Yee Sang, gets a new twist Japanese-style. 

Freshly-cut thick slivers of salmon sashimi are 

ready to be thrown into a hodge podge of classic 

Japanese ingredients. Julienned and deep fried 

crabstick teams up with hotate, fried salmon 

skin, shredded carrots and daikon radish for 

the annual toss. Piquant pickled ginger, crushed 

peanuts and ruby red pomegranate add to the 

flavour. Fruity and fresh, this delectable salad 

is tossed together with a mix of vegetable oil 

and roasted sesame dressing. A must-try this 

Chinese New Year. 


THE COOKBOOK 

DISHES 

Lot 413, 4th floor, 

Suria KLCC , 


Tel: 03-2166 9881 

www.taithong.com.my 


Monday to Saturday 

11.30am to 10.30pm 

Sunday and Public Holidays 

10.30am to 10.30pm 

SHREDDED CHICKEN AND MANGO 

SERVED WITH SWEET SPICY SAUCE 

Tropical flair in the form of tangy mangoes 

is added to juicy shreds of steamed chicken. 

Add a sweet and spicy sauce and viola! A 

kerabu-style concoction that is perfect as a 

stand-alone salad dish or added to rice. The 

chef’s option of fried mantou buns work 

well, dipped into all that tangy, sweet and 

sour goodness! 


98

THE THE COOKBOOK DISHES 

CLUBHOUSE 

Tel: 03-7804 8888 (ext 306/309) 

www.tropicanagolf.com 


Monday to Friday 

7.00am to 12.00am 

Saturday to Sunday 

7.00am to 8.00pm 

GRILLED BIG RIVER PRAWNS WITH 

CHEESE 

Big River Prawns are all the rage now. 

Succulent, juicy flesh cooked to perfection, 

these crustaceans have been given a new 

twist. Melted cheese in just the right 

amount does not drown out the sweetness 

of the prawns. Grilled to perfection, the 

prawns sit majestically on an assortment of 

garnish to further enhance the flavours. 


THE COOKBOOK 

Clubhouse 

Tel: 03-7805 3935 

BUSINESS HOURS 

11.30am to 3.00pm 

5.00pm to 10.30pm 

RABOKKI 

This dish is cooked at the table on a hot plate. It is a combination of two 

awesomely delicious things: Ramen noodles and teokbokki which are 

rice cakes. A sumptuous Korean masterpiece of chewy tteok (rice cakes) 

and ramyeon (ramen noodles) in an addictively rich chili sauce topped 

with cheese. Classic Korean pickled vegetable or kimchi is thrown in for 

a complete delectable fare. 


Monday to Sunday 

Lunch 

11.30am to 3.00pm 

Dinner 

5.00pm to 10.00pm 


100

THE DRINKS 

Bar 

Rumble 

Melbourne’s coolest bars will keep the light on for you – 

well after the last tram has gone home. 

WORDS BY MUNA NOOR 

Melbourne may be better known for its café culture, but perhaps one reason its 

denizens rely on great coffee as an essential pick me up is because they have such 

terrific bars too. There are plenty of places in Melbourne to tuck into a tipple 

while everyone else is tucked in bed. From sleek wine bars, bars upstairs, downstairs and in 

laneways, you just need to know where to look. 


THE DRINKS 

HEARTBREAKER 

HEARTBREAKER 

If you like a whole lotta rock n roll, Heartbreaker won’t 

disappoint. The antithesis to owner Michael Madrusan’s 

first bar, The Everleigh, Heartbreaker is a dimly lit, 

taxidermy-filled den with a jukebox loaded with close 

to 100 rock albums from 1968 to 1980. Dancing is a 

certainty and as such refreshments are a must. Options 

include local and American craft beers along with an 

enticing selection of whisky, mezcal and tequila – but 

the real standouts are their sophisticated cocktails. 

Choose from a Negroni, a Martini, a Manhattan or an 

Old Fashioned. If you like what you imbibe, you can also 

take them home. The Everleigh Bottling Co prepares and 

packages these timeless cocktails by hand as pre-batched 

bottles you can pick up at their bottle shop, Liquor to Go. 

Heartbreaker, 234a Russell Street, (Lonsdale Corner), 

Melbourne CBD, VIC 3000, Australia 

heartbreakerbar.com.au 


102

THE DRINKS 

STORYVILLE 

STORYVILLE 

Themed around fantasy and fairy tales, enter StoryVille and you will find yourself on the other 

side of the proverbial looking glass down where pages from your favourite books have been 

magically brought to life. Pull up a seat underneath one of the toadstools in the Mushroom 

Palace and try one of the artisan cocktails, which have been inspired by some of the most 

celebrated pieces of literature, like ‘Mr Pilkington’s Neighbour’, which has been drawn from 

and some of your favourite children’s books, ‘Through The Looking Glass’ stars alcoholic 

Vanilla Cream tea served in a teapot with dry ice. And in honour of George Orwell’s Animal 

Farm and features pork-chop-fat washed bourbon, apple liqueur and animal crackers. 

StoryVille, 185 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia 

www.storyvillemelbourne.com.au 

THE CARLTON 

THE CARLTON 

An award-winning venue, The Carlton is several floors 

of fun and frivolity. Start at the hip Hasti Bala bar and 

work your way up to its roof top bar, Palmz Deck. Both 

are lush jungle hideouts, decorated with curiosities like 

stuffed mounted animals and tropical foliage. With its 

reputation for unpredictable weather than can span 

all four seasons in one day, you wouldn’t think the 

open-air rooftop would turn into such an attractive 

watering hole, but with its retractable roof awnings 

and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect oasis to escape 

the concrete jungle and take a walk on the wild side. 

The Carlton, 193 Bourke Street, Melbourne, 

VIC 3000, Australia. 

www.thecarlton.com.au/function-rooms-melbourne 


THE DRINKS 

THE CROFT INSTITUTE 

THE CROFT INSTITUTE 

The first of Melbourne's laneway bars, The Croft Institute wins hands down for 

weirdness. Getting there is part of its quirky charm as you’ve got to navigate your 

way down Chinatown’s back lanes past colourful streetart. Once inside, prepare to 

be creeped out. This eccentric hole-in-the-wall is designed to resemble an old school 

science lab, and would look straight out of a horror flick weren’t for its good looking 

crowd, great music and exceptional drinks. The clinical approach extends to its 

cocktails which are served in a syringe, and its toilets or the Departments of Male and 

Female Hygiene which look unnervingly like hospital examination rooms. It’s all in 

good fun though, as the staff is friendly and the drinks expertly mixed. 

The Croft Institute, 21 Croft Alley, Melbourne, 

VIC 3000, Australia. 

www.thecroftinstitute.com.au 


THE DRINKS 

HARRY & FRANKIE 

HARRY & FRANKIE 

Located in the Port Melbourne area of the city, Harry 

& Frankie is a beautiful wine bar and shop whose 

underlying philosophy is to champion the pleasure of 

a great bottle or glass at every social occasion. With 

over 600 wines, beers and ciders to choose from you 

will never run short of reasons to imbibe. Best when 

paired with any number of their sharing dishes like top 

quality charcuterie and cheese or rotation of mains, 

bar’s wide cork-inlayed curved ceiling with grape vine 

silhouettes, and friendly staff who are able to offer onthe-money 

wine recommendations, conspire to make 

this atmospheric place the perfect hideout to huddle 

up with friends or on your own. 

Harry & Frankie, 317 Bay St, Port Melbourne, VIC 

3207, Australia. 

www.harryandfrankie.com.au 

BOILERMAKER HOUSE 

Boilermaker House is an industrial yet sophisticated 

blues filled temple devoted to all things whisky and craft 

beer. In terms of variety and scale it’s hard to match, 

with more than 900 whiskies, 50 craft beers including 

12 rotating taps and a spectacular cocktail list to sample 

from. Zero in on its specialty – the eponymously named 

boilermaker, which is a beer and whisky pairing. Served 

on rustic slabs of natural wood in elegant glassware, 

each is accompanied by artisanal meats and cheeses to 

enhance the flavours. The sheer number of drams and 

drinks on offer make the flavour profile combinations 

pretty much limitless, but if a thirst of knowledge 

is what you seek, Boilermaker House’s whiskey 

masterclasses should not be missed. 

THE EVERLEIGH 

Boilermaker House 209-211 Lonsdale Street, 

Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia. 

boilermakerhouse.com.au 

BOILERMAKER HOUSE 

THE EVERLEIGH 

A staple on any respectable world’s best bar awards list, no trip to the vibrant city of 

Melbourne is complete without a night spent propping up The Everleigh bar. Hid 

down a dim-lit hallway behind an American diner, its vibe is of a 1920s American-style 

speakeasy with vintage chandeliers, tables bathed in candlelight and old-world wood 

paneling walls. This sophisticated spot has a purist approach to mixology and places an 

emphasis on classic cocktails. Plump for the Honeysuckle, which is a mix of light rum, 

lime and a dash of honey; the Professor, a potent blend of gin, pomegranate, lime and 

a dash of absinthe; or better yet ask for Bartender’s Choice for a custom-made tipple 

especially concocted to match your taste in fresh fruits, flavours and spirits; you can 

enjoy yours by the bar or in their private Elk or Starling rooms. 

The Everleigh, 156/150 Gertrude St, Melbourne VIC 3065, Australia. 

www.theeverleigh.com 


GAME CHANGER 

SOO 

JOO 

PARK 

IN 

CONTROL 

Supermodel Soo Joo Park talks 

perfectionism, insomnia and 

accidental fame. 

AMY VERNER/EVENING STANDARD/ 

THE INTERVIEW PEOPLE 

Despite the fact that she is this evening 

dressed down in skinny jeans and a Stevie 

Nicks T-shirt, sporting a messy mop of 

peroxide-blonde hair, Soo Joo Park is 

still an unmistakeable presence when she 

glides into the lobby bar of Paris’s glamorous Le 

Roch hotel, near the Place Vendôme. But if even 

off-duty she seems to exude an outward air of 

confidence, in person she is unassuming. 


GAME CHANGER 

GETTY IMAGES 


GAME CHANGER 

GETTY IMAGES 

“I’m a horrible 

perfectionist. I’m 

almost never happy 

with anything I do, 

100 per cent.” 

“I was worried, I was in the 

car and I was like, “Do you have 

any powder?”” she says, when I 

make a (positive) comment about 

her complexion. “There are little 

breakouts. I’m wearing a little bit of 

make-up right now but underneath 

are very dark under-eye circles… 

I was thinking I wasn’t looking so 

normal.” 

While she does not exhibit the same self-assuredness 

as a Kate, Naomi or Christy might do, Park has still 

managed to follow them into mononym status. And 

though the Korean-American supermodel may not have 

been around for as long, she’s a regular on the Chanel 

catwalk, and has been an agent of change in the beauty 

world as the first Asian model to land a multi-million 

dollar contract with L’Oréal. 

It’s thanks to Chanel that we’re meeting today. Park 

counts the house’s creative director, Karl Lagerfeld, as one 

of her greatest supporters and has spent the day shooting 

at the grand Château de Vaugien, south-west of Paris, 

clad in the fashion house’s latest couture collection; all 

flamboyant frothy gowns and pastel-hued tweeds. 

This is a world in which Park is now in control. 

Millennial models such as the Hadid sisters and Kendall 

Jenner might have had to walk in show after show this 

year alone, but Park, 31, can decide how busy she wants 

to be — partly because “I’m a horrible perfectionist. I’m 

almost never happy with anything I do, 100 per cent.” 

Compared with previous seasons, this most recent month 

of ready-to-wear shows was a breeze; aside from appearing 

in the Baja East presentation in New York she only 

walked the Chanel show with its unforgettable simulated 

rocket launch within the Grand Palais. 

The trade-off of such success is that she has outgrown 

the desirable niche of newness. “Even though there are a 

more diverse group of [models], you still are categorised 

as a person into a certain type; and a lot of the time, they 

want something new. I had my time, the blonde hair was 

new and refreshing to the scene at that point,” she says, 

matter-of-factly. 

In many ways she still doesn’t fit the traditional 

model mould. The industry might give the impression of 

pursuing greater diversity but she remains among a small 

group of internationally known, in-demand Asian models 

that include Liu Wen and Fernanda Ly. Unsurprisingly, 

models.com has ranked her one of its ‘Money Girls’, a 

benchmark of the size and quality of her contracts. This 

puts her in the company of the ‘new supers’ such as Karlie 

Kloss, Cara Delevingne and Joan Smalls. 

Park made history in 2015 as L’Oréal’s first Asian- 

American spokesmodel (the French beauty behemoth 

dates back to 1909) and she is the face of Redken, making 

her the first Asian-American to front two large beauty 

brands. Her hair happens to be a pearly shade of white, 


108

GAME CHANGER 

GETTY IMAGES 


GAME CHANGER 

SOO JOO PARK SEEN IN THE 

STREETS OF PARIS AFTER 

THE CHANEL FASHION SHOW 

DURING HAUTE COUTURE 

FASHION WEEK ON JANUARY 

24, 2017 IN PARIS, FRANCE. 

“I was flying from one place to 

another, and every successful 

model has to learn how to 

cope with that; mine was even 

worse because I just get too in 

my head. It takes a lot for me 

to just kind of pat myself on 

the back.” 

which defines her from the above group, imbuing her 

with a non-conformist edge. Only after dyeing her 

hair did she end up on Chanel’s radar thanks to former 

French Vogue editor-in-chief, Carine Roitfeld. The 

bleaching takes its toll to be sure, but it has helped 

maintain her visibility. And Park is unlikely to run 

out of defining moments soon. The current issue of 

W Korea features three covers of her shot by three 

top Korean photographers; unbelievably, this is the 

first time the magazine has devoted the cover to a 

single Korean model. She realises all these firsts have 

a cumulative effect. “It means something more and 

more,” she explains. “And that, in a way, shows who I am 

in this industry, especially because it’s an opportunity 

for me to kind of make my culture; and I am.” 

Interestingly, modelling was an accidental career 

for Park. She grew up in Seoul until the age of 10 when 

her family moved to California. Before fashion, she had 

studied architecture at the University of California, 

Berkeley (she can wax poetic about Bauhaus and Mies 

van der Rohe). She is also a keen linguist: “I speak 

Korean and English fluently. I picked up French when 

I was studying in high school [and] speak a tiny bit of 

Japanese, because it’s very similar to Korean.” 

It was in 2010 that she was first scouted in a vintage 

shop in the Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco. 

She recalls a woman approaching her with questions 

about her height and age. Upon learning that Park was 

23 at the time she apparently said, “You’re a lot older 

than I thought.” Park’s reaction: “What a terrible thing 

to say.” 


GAME CHANGER 

GETTY IMAGES 


GAME CHANGER 

Was there ever any resistance from her 

parents over dropping out of university and 

pursuing modelling? “They’re very proud of 

me. At the same time, I think as parents, they 

worry about the next step, because modelling 

isn’t a lifetime thing for most people.” This 

might be why she hasn’t, she says, missed a 

single Chanel show since she started. When 

Lagerfeld presented his Resort 2016 offering in 

Seoul, Park opened the show and took the final 

loop with the designer and his godson, Hudson 

Kroenig. 

Spending time in a lower register — 

listening to music, watching Netflix or 

practising meditation — is critical to staying 

equalised, Park insists. She’s swapped the West 

Coast for New York and is currently based in 

trendy Bushwick while she has her apartment 

in the East Village renovated. 

At one point, she says that she was 

experiencing severe insomnia — an 

occupational hazard primarily, but also because 

she says she has a tendency to get caught up in 

her own thoughts. “I was flying from one place 

to another, and every successful model has to 

learn how to cope with that; mine was even 

worse because I just get too in my head.” She 

admits that her perfectionism doesn’t help: “It 

takes a lot for me to just kind of pat myself on 

the back.” 

Enter meditation, kundalini yoga and 

breathing exercises, which complement her 

fitness routine that includes kickboxing and 

floor exercises with a trainer friend who owns 

Rumble Boxing in New York. “I’m trying to 

diversify my regime,” she says, citing regular 

facials and massages as additional essentials. 

“I’m more low-maintenance than most people,” 

she says, before clarifying, “Not most people — 

most models, I guess.” 

Indeed, there is a grounded nonchalance 

in her attitude, which she chalks up to having 

a sense of who she was before she began. “This 

industry can make you very disillusioned, 

but I started later so I think I was able to kind 

of forge who I was a little bit more. I also 

have really good people around me whom 

I love.” This group includes her boyfriend, 

photographer Jack Waterlot, and an architect 

university friend who is currently overseeing 

works on the East Village flat. “It’s going to 

be sick,” she enthuses, naming Paris architect 

Joseph Dirand as inspiration. Certainly, for 

someone who is fast becoming a global fashion 

icon, a sanctuary-type home feels as much like a 

necessity as an indulgence. 


112

THE DRIVE 

ADVERTORIAL 

PEUGEOT 3008 SUV: 

THE BEST HAS ARRIVED 

Discover the not-so-humble offerings of the new SUV 

that’s taking the urban driving experience to a whole 

new level. 

The elegant curves and dominant features of the new 

Peugeot 3008 give it a bit more edge. Grilles, bonnets 

and windows trimmed with chrome, and new full LED 

headlights lend itself to the overall allure of the cars allnew 

bold styling. The car comes with a choice of two 

trim levels of Active and Allure. 

Complementing the bold styling is the technologydriven 

new Peugeot i-Cockpit complete with 8.0” 

capacitive touchscreen, configurable 12.3” head-up 

digital display instrument panel, a compact steering 

wheel featuring integrated controls and an electronic 

automatic transmission control system. 

With a lighter chassis, BlueHDi and award-winning 

PureTech petrol engines and EAT6 automatic gearbox, 

this set of wheels uses more environmentally-efficient 

technologies without compromising on comfort for both 

driver and passengers. In addition to this, the Peugeot 

3008 also comes with a 3D Connected Navigation 

system, smartphone charging plate, electric tailgate and 

a panoramic glass sunroof. 

The Peugeot 3008 with autonomous driving, offers the 

options of Lane keeping technologies and AEBS, reversing 

cameras, automatic headlights, Hill Assist Descent Control 

and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop function. 

The comfort element has been taken to new levels 

in the new Peugeot 3008 with front seats producing 

heightened sensations of comfort and support. There is 

even a multi-point massage function making long drives a 

lot less tiresome. Backseats can be folded completely flat 

offering a large space to lug your cargo despite previous 

space constraints. Even the boot is stylised to two height 

levels, with a standard flush against the boot entry and 

the slightly deeper to accommodate larger items. 

The entertainment system gets bolstered with FOCAL 

Premium HIFI speaker systems with a whopping ten 

speakers throughout the car! The Apply CarPlay and 

Android Auto integration, a standard feature on allmodels, 

offers the ‘plug-in-and-play’ function with your 

smartphone. 

With state-of-the-art capabilities, it’s no wonder the 

Peugeot 3008 SUV clinched top accolades as Car Of The 

Year 2017. Selling from RM142,888, this SUV is in a class 

of its own, making every turn on the road an adventure. 

CONTACT PEUGEOT CARELINE: 1-800-88-6292 

FOR YOUR SALES AND SERVICES INQUIRIES 


THE DRIVE 

RUN WITH THE HORSES 

In Italy, no trip would be 

complete without a trip to the 

Ferrari Museum. There are 

two, in Modeno and Maranello, 

and both are amongst the 

most visited in Italy, attracting 

petrolheads and fans of the 

prancing horse brand. 

The stunning Museo Enzo 

Ferrari in Modeno, which 

combines a futuristic 2,500 

square metre main pavilion 

with the meticulously restored 

workshop of Enzo Ferari’s 

father – now the Ferrari 

Engines Museum – recorded 

a record numbers of vistors in 

2017. 

The Ferrari Museum in 

Maranello has also taken in 

growing ticket sales thanks to 

its “Rosso Infinito” (‘Infinite 

Red’) exhibition and “Under the 

Skin” exhibit, which has now 

been transferred to the Design 

Museum in London, and will 

run up until 15 April 2018. If 

that’s the stuff that gets your 

engine gunning, then get in 

gear and go. 

More at www.ferrari.com 

THE MASERATI LEVANTE S 

POWERS INTO THE MALAYSIAN 

SUV MARKET 

Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor 

for Maserati in Malaysia, has officially 

introduced the Maserati Levante S. Maserati’s 

first SUV. 

It features an array of hi-tech features that 

inject extra power and performance into an 

already impressive luxury SUV. Among them 

are Electric Power Steering and Advanced 

Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) with active 

functions like Highway Assist, Lane Keeping 

Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign 

Recognition. 

Featuring four drive modes: Normal, ICE, 

Sport and Off-road, the Levante S accelerates 

from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and has a 

top speed of 264 km/h, without a loss of fuel 

efficiency at 10.9 l/100 km. 

Officiating the launch at Desa Park City in 

Kuala Lumpur was Datuk Wira Hj SM Faisal 

Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Group Executive 

Chairman of Naza World Group of Companies, 

who said, “The petrol-powered Levante S has 

been eagerly awaited and will no doubt be 

a popular new addition to Malaysia’s luxury 

automotive market.” 

Displaying unparalleled agility and stability 

thanks to low centre of gravity and streamline 

shape, the Levant S’ spacious interior allows for 

five people to be seated comfortably, and comes 

in two distinct trim options. 

The GranLusso trim features metallic-finish 

front skid plates and roof rails, black-painted 

brake calipers, 19” Zefiro alloy wheels, and a 

cabin with a choice of Ermenegildo Zegna silk or 

full premium Italian upholstery. 

The Levante S GranSport stands out for its 

Piano Black front grille, skid plates and roof 

rails, red brake calipers, 20” Nereo wheels and 

will have a sport steering wheel with standard 

gearshift paddles and power-adjustable Inox 

sport pedals inside. 

Prices start at RM788,800 inclusive of local 

taxes and duties, and includes 3 years Standard 

Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction 

plus a *Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 

years/ 60,000km, whichever comes first. 

More at @maserati.malaysia (Instagram) and 

www.facebook/maserati.malaysia 


114

THE DRIVE 

When it comes to driving, one of the most difficult conditions to deal 

with is snow and ice. All-wheel drive and winter tyres are only one 

part of the equation when trying to overcome this. 

WORDS BY 

ASWAN YAP 

f you’ve ever travelled far enough north during the winter 

months, chances are you were treated to beautiful snow-covered 

sceneries and frozen lakes. It’s picturesque, no doubt, but the 

same snow and ice that looks beautiful on a postcard can be 

incredibly treacherous when you’re behind the wheel. Advances 

in both car and tyre technology have helped a great deal with 

making it both easier and safer to drive in these conditions — 

but more important than all of that is the training that drivers go through to 

better prepare them for the challenge of winter driving. 

All the technology in the world can’t fight the laws of physics. In parts of 

Europe where snowfall is particularly heavy for a significant portion of the 

year, the learning period for a license is far longer as well as far more intensive 

in nature, with the aim of teaching new drivers the basics of car control. 

Beyond that, the need to deal with these harsh conditions repeatedly, year by 

year, helps ingrain the techniques and skills required in the memory. 

During one of our recent trips to Sweden we had the pleasure of being 

chauffeured by, of all people, a nineteen-year-old girl. She was piloting a bulky 

Volvo XC90 SUV, running guests between a ski resort and a restaurant out in 

the countryside — and all of this in the dead of night with hardly a streetlight 

to guide her way. The way she tackled the iced-over roads running through 

the mountains, reacting to loss of traction and grip in such a calm, controlled 

manner — it would make even a seasoned driver green with envy. 

This teenage girl wasn’t an exception either, at least around that part of 

Sweden. It is common for college kids to have to commute great distances, 

either to get to class or work, and in the winter months, they simply have 

to adapt to the change in conditions. Admittedly, newer, more modern cars 

tend to have more technology that helps with keeping the car stable, but not 

everyone has access to a new, modern car when the snow starts to fall. 


116

THE DRIVE 

VOLVO V90 CROSS COUNTRY 


THE DRIVE 

Arguably, it is more the European auto 

manufacturers that take a significant interest in winter 

driving. BMW, for example, introduced all-wheel drive 

on their 3 Series and 5 Series models as far back as the 

1980s. This was less known at the time, as the company 

had more of a reputation for front-engine, rear-wheel 

drive sports sedans — and yet it was still a necessary 

marketing decision to help make their cars more 

appealing in a wider range of markets. Granted that 

system has been developed and improved a great deal 

since then, eventually becoming the xDrive system you 

see on modern BMW SUVs. 

Audi was a little different with their approach. Their 

participation in rally, culminating the era 

of Group B, resulted in the original Audi 

Quattro; it was an incredible car, albeit 

running a primitive four-wheel drive 

system (Note Not all-wheel drive. The 

distinction between four-wheel drive and 

all-wheel drive is the latter can adjust how 

torque is distributed). This system was 

refined over the years, with the inclusion 

of electronic systems and torque biasing 

that made it the highly adaptive, effective 

all-wheel drive system you see today. 

But what is really surprising is 

Volvo. Despite hailing from a country 

that experiences snowfall on a regular 

basis, Volvo was not too fussed about 

adopting all-wheel drive systems. Their 

cars were initially rear-wheel drive 

through the 1970s, transitioning to 

front-wheel drive later on as front-wheel 

drive made for a safer chassis design and was easier to 

drive in slippery conditions. While their SUV models are 

now primarily equipped with all-wheel drive, they were 

more a pre-requisite for markets where SUVs are taken 

off the beaten path. 

Perhaps Volvo’s approach was most indicative of 

Swedish mentality and mindset — they did not need 

all-wheel drive to get through difficult conditions, even 

though it would be a great help. Their focus was on driver 

development itself, and the average Swede can handle 

a bit of snow regardless of what car they’re driving. But 

the question remains: If you don’t happen to be born in 

a country with icy roads or have years of experience, how 

do you get up to speed? 

"The first step to 

learning how to 

drive on ice and snow 

is overcoming the 

fear of a loss of grip 

because even with 

studded winter tyres 

there will be moments 

when the car is going 

to break traction." 

The answer lies in driver training programmes. BMW is 

the most prominent of the lot, with driver training courses 

that cover multiple aspects of driving. The more traditional 

courses focus on accident avoidance and reactions, 

eventually pushing participants up to track driving and high 

speed car control if they choose to stick with the programme. 

But there are particular subsets, such as their Ice Driving 

programme and off-road courses that train participants in 

the various skills necessary to navigate treacherous terrain. 

Porsche also offers an ice driving experience, although it 

is far less regimented or restrictive in nature. Unlike BMW’s 

courses which are structured and require participants to 

progress through each level, Porsche opens it up to anyone 

willing to put money down and pay for a flight 

ticket out. Arguably, the skills that Porsche 

offers are also a little less relevant in the real 

world, but it is more an experience than a 

training course after all. 

One would expect Audi to focus on driver 

training as well — especially since they proudly 

display their Quattro models at multiple 

airports around Europe during the winter 

months — but again they provide more of an 

experience than an actual learning course. 

Participants have a chance to throw a fleet of 

Audi Quattro models around manufactured 

tracks on frozen lakes, although the instruction 

is a little less closely monitored. 

But what all of these programmes achieve, 

at the very least, is the ability to get drivers 

accustomed to the feeling of low grip conditions. 

The first step to learning how to drive on ice 

and snow is overcoming the fear of a loss of grip, 

because the reality is that even with studded winter tyres 

there are going to be moments when the car is going to break 

traction. Uneven road surfaces and transitions between snow 

(slightly slippery) to ice (extremely slippery) can mean the car 

will unsettle itself as you drive along even at a leisurely pace, 

and so it is important not to panic. 

The next step is to understand how throttle and steering 

inputs affect the behaviour of the car. Most drivers will 

already understand that driving on slippery surfaces means 

slowing down, but it is also how they accelerate and steer that 

affects how a car manoeuvres through bends and corners. 

A little too much steering might throw the car into a spin, 

while too much throttle may cause the car to lose front end 

grip and drive it into a snow back — or worse, a tree. 


118

THE DRIVE 

THE BMW DRIVING 

EXPERIENCE INTENSIFIES 

WITH A CLOSE PARTNERSHIP 

WITH TRAINING VENUES IN 

ÖTZTAL AND PITZTAL 


THE DRIVE 

911 TURBO S PORSCHE DRIVING EXPERIENCE 

ICE FORCE LEVI FINLAND 2015 PORSCHE AG 1 

NEEL JANI 918 SPYDER PORSCHE DRIVING 

EXPERIENCE LEVI FINLAND 2015 PORSCHE AG 

Beyond that, it is a matter of vision and 

understanding how to control the car once you drive 

beyond the limit of grip — keeping your head up and 

looking in the direction you want to go, and steering in 

that direction. Of course, all of this is easier said than 

done but this is also difficult to understand until you are 

in the situation yourself. Ultimately, nothing beats seat 

time and practice in these conditions. 

If you are truly interested in trying ice driving for 

yourself, it would be worth your money to book a flight 

out to Sweden during the winter months and sign up for 

one of the many ice driving programmes. When the lakes 

freeze over, there are usually outfits that set up courses 

to teach drivers how to handle these tricky conditions 

— and there’s no safer place to pirouette around in an 

out-of-control slide than an empty frozen lake. If you’re 

the kind of person who enjoys driving, it’s definitely the 

experience of a lifetime. 

"there’s no safer place 

to pirouette around 

in an out-of-control 

slide than an empty 

frozen lake." 


120

THE DRIVE 


THE VACATION | NEWS 

HEAVEN IN HUA HIN 

Historically the stomping ground of the 

Thai Royal family, Thailand’s blissful 

seaside town of Hua Hin, just two hours 

south of Bangkok, welcomed the opening 

of AVANI Hua Hin Resort and Villas. The 

resort’s 196 guest rooms, villas and suites 

spread out across lush gardens that connect 

to a large lagoon pool. Guests can choose 

from seaside excursions in the local area, 

food market tours and an AVANIKIDS 

club for family-friendly activities in this 

tranquil beach paradise. 

WORDS BY TANIA JAYATHILAKA 


122

NEWS | THE VACATION 

YES TO YACHTS 

Get ready for a dazzling display of 

maritime luxury with the third edition of 

the Thailand Yacht Show, set to take place 

this 22 to 25 February at the gorgeous Ao 

Po Grand Marina close to the stunning 

cerulean Phang Nga Bay, Phuket. The 

show will present a chance for potential 

buyers and charterers to climb aboard 

and try a wide range of watercrafts like 

sailboats, dinghies, tenders, day-cruisers, 

and a stunning variety of superyachts 

and regional debuts amidst upscale social 

events and other exclusive experiences. 

DECKED OUT 

An unbeatable view of Hong Kong’s 

glistening Victoria Harbour is now 

within easy reach of travellers visiting 

the country’s largest shopping 

complex Harbour City, thanks to 

its newly opened Ocean Terminal 

Deck. This free-of-charge rooftop 

observation deck overlooks Hong 

Kong Island, Kowloon up north, and 

the harbour, said to be the ideal spot 

from which to enjoy Hong Kong’s 

sunset view. 


THE VACATION 

SUNSET, TWILIGHT, DUSK, 

HONG KONG, CHINA 


124

THE VACATION 

48 Hours In 

HONG 

KONG 

Enjoy home comforts, fine dining and 

designer discounts in Eastern Asia. 

WORDS BY 

CYNTHIA ROSENFELD/LONDON EVENING STANDARD/ 

THE INTERVIEW PEOPLE 


THE VACATION 

PYEONGCHANG, SOUTH KOREA 

Rather than stamp out a start-up spirit, recordsetting 

commercial rents in Hong Kong’s wellestablished 

neighbourhoods — Central, Wan Chai 

and Sheung Wan among them — have inspired 

an unprecedented sprawl towards this polyglot 

island’s four cardinal points. 

One headed south to eat the day’s catch around Aberdeen 

Harbour, a natural typhoon shelter still home to a dwindling 

community of Tanka and Hoklo boat-dwellers. Then came 

Wong Chuk Hang, a ‘go down’ or warehouse district of 

wholesale food distributors, car mechanics and Chinese 

furniture-makers-turned-breeding-ground for space-seeking 

art galleries and other creative enterprises; a mass transit 

station is now planned for late 2016. 

To help first-timers ferret out these often-unmarked 

addresses, pioneers formed the South Island Cultural District 

(sicd.com.hk). The nearly two-dozen-strong, mostly gallery 

members scattered around Wong Chuk Hang and the 

neighbouring former fishing villages of Ap Lei Chau and Tin 

Wan regularly host art walks and sponsor shuttle buses from 

Wan Chai on the Victoria Harbour waterfront. During the 

day around Wong Chuk Hang, named after Aberdeen’s main 

thoroughfare, watch for pencil-thin glamazons navigating 

these still gritty sidewalks in this season’s stilettos. They’ll 

be heading to One Island South, Hong Kong’s fashion 

headquarters, after lunching — gluten-free — at the array 

of eateries hidden within Wong Chuk Hang’s deceptively 

dilapidated edifices. 

BED DOWN: INDUSTRIAL CHIC WITH HOME 

COMFORTS 

Luring international art lovers to abandon their hotel 

loyalty point tallies, and locals to head south, Ovolo 

Southside’s (64 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen; 00 852 

3460 8100; ovolohotels.com; doubles from £120) 162 pareddown 

guestrooms balance backdrops of exposed pipes and 

raw brick with creature comforts including puffed-up beds, 

powerful rain showers and cosy couches angled towards the 

South China Sea. Cool-kid concierges are on hand to lead 

guests past loading docks and up industrial elevators to 

invitation-only pop-ups and a handful of Hong Kong’s top 

private kitchens. 

Some of the best Wong Chuk Hang meals, however, can 

be had in-house, starting with the tapas menu at the hotel’s 

23rd floor rooftop lounge, where happy hour cocktails run a 

very reasonable HKD$150 (£13) and include complimentary 

bites from the kitchen. The hotel’s restaurant, Cirqle, is 

home to one of Hong Kong’s best burgers as well as higherbrow 

dishes such as Lebanese goat’s cheese and fig salad, 

and seared Saltbush lamb chops with orzo tzatziki in shallot 

salsa. Further freebies include citywide Wi-Fi, an all-day 

snack buffet featuring bottomless jars of homemade cookies, 

flexible checkout and DIY laundry. 


126

THE VACATION 

“During the day around 

Wong Chuk Hang, named 

after Aberdeen’s main 

thoroughfare, watch for 

pencil-thin glamazons 

navigating these still gritty 

sidewalks in this season’s 

stilettos.” 

FED AND WATERED: PRIME CUTS, FINE DINING 

AND SUPER JUICES 

Vegetarians you’ve been warned; Butchers’ Club (13/F Sun 

Ying Industrial Centre, 9 Tin Wan Close, Tin Wan; 00 

852 2552 8281; thebutchers.club; three-course set menus 

HK$550/£46) doesn’t deviate from its name. Credited with 

introducing dry-aged beef to Hong Kong, owner Jonathan 

Glover has spawned a mini-empire around Hong Kong 

Island with a New York-style deli and burger joint. However, 

it’s this artisan butcher shop-turned-after-dark-privatekitchen 

for up to 18 that draws plaudits, as much for the 

succulent cuts (and duck-fat fries) as for the free-flowing 

chats with the butcher and chef. 

At Culinart (40 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen; 00 

852 2580 0919; culinart.com.hk) a hard-to-book private 

kitchen for eight to 24 diners, Chinese-German chef Stanley 

Wong’s artful dishes taste as beautiful as they look, and there 

is plenty to admire on the monthly seven-course tasting 

menu (HK$1,200/£100) in which white asparagus dappled 

with chives and herring roe prep appetites for barramundi 

sashimi with pickled watermelon, rhubarb gazpacho and 

roasted black cod with turmeric kombucha. 

Take the lift up to 3/3rds (6 Yip Fat Street 00 852 

3462 2951; three-3rds.com; mains from HK$90/£8), an 

industrial furniture showroom that’s also an eatery with 

exposed everything, plus compelling views through the 

wall of windows to Aberdeen Harbour. What the owners 

save on rent goes into high-quality imported and organic 

ingredients in the rice paper-thin pizzas, inventive salads 

and delicious homemade desserts. 

At Mum Veggie + Coffee + Sweet (One Island South, 

Aberdeen; mum-hk.com) morning yoga classes inside this 

polished concrete, stone-walled enclave give way to some of 

the Southside’s healthiest cuisine. After a Super C juice with 

freshly squeezed oranges, apples and lemons (HK$34/£3) 

tuck into crispy burdock root salad with carrots, bean 

sprouts and salad leaves. It’s filling but not so much that one 

has to forgo vegan banana cake or tofu brownie (mains from 

HK$50/£4.20). 


THE VACATION 

INTERIOR OF LANE CRAWFORD 

STORE. LANE CRAWFORD IS 

A RETAIL COMPANY WITH 

SPECIALTY STORES SELLING 

DESIGNER LABEL LUXURY 

GOODS IN HONG KONG 

ISTOCKPHOTO 

PRADA BOUTIQUE, 

HONG KONG 

IN THE BAG: DESIGNER DISCOUNTS 

Ask your hotel concierge to put you on the list for any 

private sales that may be taking place among the showrooms 

at One Island South, where fashion doyenne Joyce holds 

regular friends and family sales at her seventh floor 

showroom, rightly famous for its 75 per cent discounts. 

Otherwise, head further south to Horizon Plaza (2 Lee 

Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau, 00 852 2554 9089), a veritable hub 

of markdowns. Regulars know to start from the top, on the 

27th floor, where prices at the Marni outlet dip at least 50 per 

cent below retail. 

Two floors down, the Lane Crawford outlet is a minefield 

of European designer finds for those willing to pick through 

the scattered piles while the more organised Ralph Lauren on 

the 18th floor offers an edited selection of men’s, women’s 

and children’s frocks from recent seasons. Die-hard discount 

shoppers continue on to the Prada Outlet, above a wet 

market (Marina Square, South Horizons, Ap Lei Chau; 00 

852 2814 9576). 


128

THE VACATION 

“At Art Statements, modern 

Asian art pioneer Dominique 

Perregaux’s roster ranges from 

Salvador Dali and American 

graffiti artist JonOne to 

‘outsider’ Chinese photographer 

Weng Fen and the nostalgic 

Japanese kitsch of Yuichi Sugai.” 

CULTURAL AGENDA: INDUSTRIAL ART 

Though undeniably industrial, Wong Chuk Hang and its 

satellites Tin Hau and Ap Lei Chau are easily navigable on 

foot, so download the SCID map (sicd.com.hk/map.html) 

then seek out two of the district’s top art spaces. 

At Spring Workshop (Remex Centre, 42 Wong Chuk 

Hang Road; 00 852 2110 4370; springworkshop.org), expat 

dynamo Mimi Brown helms a pioneering yet inviting 

not-for-profit artists’ residency, with multiple studios for 

visiting artists, a cavernous exhibition space plus open 

kitchens and outdoor terraces. 

At Art Statements (Gee Chang Hong Centre, Factory D, 

65 Wong Chuk Hang Road; 00 852 2696 2300; artstatements. 

com), modern Asian art pioneer Dominique Perregaux’s 

roster ranges from Salvador Dali and American graffiti 

artist JonOne to ‘outsider’ Chinese photographer Weng Fen 

and the nostalgic Japanese kitsch of Yuichi Sugai. 

SPRING WORKSHOP AT 

WONG CHUK HANG ROAD 

3/3RDS’ HIGH QUALITY 

AND ORGANIC FARE 


PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OFFICES 

TROPICANA MANAGEMENT 

SERVICES SDN BHD (TMS) 

Property Management Office 

CASA INDAH 1 

CONDOMINIUMS 


MERCHANT SQUARE 

BUSINE SS PARK 


CASA KIARA 2 

CONDOMINIUM 


CASA TROPICANA 

CONDOMINIUMS 


Jalan Kelab Tropicana 

Tropicana Golf & 

Country Resort 

47410 Petaling Jaya 

Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia 

Tel: +603 7804 1533 

(Direct Line) 

+603 7804 8888 

(General Line) 

Fax: +603 7806 5044 

tms@tropicanagolf.com 

Office hours: 

9am – 6pm (Monday – Friday) 

9am – 1pm (Saturday) 

Closed (Sunday) 

B-G-05, Casa Indah 1 

Condominiums 

No 2A, Persiaran Surian 

Tropicana Indah, 

PJU 3 Kota Damansara 



Tel: +603 6140 9194/6140 9166 

Fax: +603 6140 9168 

casaindahcondo@yahoo.com 

Office hours: 

9am – 5.30pm (Monday – Friday) 



No 1, Jalan Tropicana 

Selatan 1, PJU 3 



Tel: +603 7883 0866 

Fax: +603 7883 0966 

merchantsquare@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 

9am – 5.30pm 

(Monday – Friday) 



Dicasa Management 

Services Sdn Bhd 

Lobby Level 

No 14, Jalan Kiara 5, Bukit Kiara 


Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia 

Tel: +603 6203 9229 

Fax: +603 6203 9339 

casakiara2@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 

9am – 5pm 




B-5-17, Block B 

Casa Tro picana 

No 5, Jalan Persiaran Tropicana 

PJU 3 

Tropicana Golf & Country Resort 



Tel: +603 7883 0982 

Fax: +603 7883 0292 

casatropicana@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 

9am – 5.30pm 




CASA INDAH 2 

CONDOMINIUMS 


A-02-01, Management Office 

Casa Indah 2 Condominiums 

No 2B, Persiaran Surian 

Tropicana Indah Resort Homes 

PJU3 

Kota Damansara 



Tel: +603 6142 6288 / 6388 

Fax: +603 6142 6788 

casaindah2@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 

9am – 5.30pm 




ARENA MENTARI BUSINESS 

PARK 


Block C, Wisma TT 

No 1, Jalan PJS 8/15 

Dataran Mentari 



Tel: +603 5621 1979 

Fax: +603 5621 1980 

istimabudi@gmail.com 

Office hours: 

9am – 5.30pm 




TROPICANA INDAH SDN BHD 


Jalan Kelab Tropicana 

Tropicana Golf & 

Country Resort 



Tel: +603 7804 4722 

+603 7805 5855 

Fax: +603 7806 5044 

tisb@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 

9am – 6pm (Monday – Friday) 



TROPICANA GRANDE 


Level 1, Management Office 

Block A, Tropicana Grande 

Condominiums 

No. 3 Persiaran Tropicana 



Tel: +603 7610 0965 

Fax: +603 7610 0968 

stephaniechua@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 9am – 6pm 




TROPICANA CHERAS 


To be ready soon 

For more information, please 

contact Sales & Marketing 

Department at: 

Tel: +603 7710 1018 

DAMANSARA INTAN 

E-BUSINESS PARK 


A328, Block A 

Damansara Intan 

No 1, Jalan SS 20/27 



Tel: +603 7118 3111 

Fax: +603 7118 3222 

gracewong@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 

9am – 5.30pm 




FORTUNE PARK APARTMENTS 


A-5, Pangsapuri Suria Perdana 

(Fortune Park Apartments) 

Taman Serdang Perdana 

Seksyen 4 

43300 Seri Kembangan 


Tel: +603 8944 9331 

Fax: +603 8944 9332 

fortunepark@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 

9am – 5.30pm 




TROPICANA HEIGHTS 

Property Management Offi ce 

Off Jalan P6/2, 43500 

Semenyih, Kajang 


Tel: +6013-2020746 

Fax: +603 7806 5044 

tisb@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 

9.00 am to 5.30 pm (Monday – Friday) 

9.00 am to 5.30 pm (Saturday) 

Closed (Sunday & Public Holidays) 

TROPICANA CHERAS 

Admin Of fice 

6, Jalan Tropicana Cheras 1, Taman 

Tropicana Cheras, 43000 Kajang, 

Selangor. 

Tel: +6013-2020746 

Fax: +603 7610 0968 

stephaniechua@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Office hours: 

9.00 am to 5.30 pm (Monday – Friday) 

9.00 am to 5.30 pm (Saturday) 

Closed (Sunday & Public Holidays)

THE LIST 

FACILITIES AND TENANTS AT 

TROPICANA GOLF AND COUNTRY RESORT 

TROPICANA TROPICANA GOLF GOLF AND COUNTRY AND COUNTRY RESORT RESORT 

SITE LAYOUT SITE LAYOUT PLAN PLAN 

N 

N 

Buggy Track Buggy Track 

DRIVING DRIVING RANG 

WESTERN WESTERN COURSE COURSE 

Practice Green Practice Green 

Children’s 

Playground 

Children’s 

Playground 

Landscape 

Landscape 

Land 

18th Green 18th Green 

18 

18 

14 

13 

14 

Tai Thong 

Tai Thong 

32 

32 

Children’s Children’s 

Playground Playground 

21 

48 

21 

19 

20 

48 

19 

17 

22 

20 

15 

17 

22 

16 

15 

16 

Main 

Lobby 

17 

33 

17 

33 

Landscape 

Landscape 

30 

31 

29 

30 

Administration 

Administration 

Office 

Office 

31 

29 

26 

25 

24 23 

24 23 

25 

26 

MAIN WI 

M 

Car Po 

34 

34 

35 

35 

36 

Landscape 

Landscape 

36 

28 

28 

27 

27 

Fou 

Poolside 

Cafe 

Poolside 

Cafe 

38 

37 

39 

38 

37 

39 

SPORTS WING 

SPORTS WING 

41 42 

41 42 

43 

43 

44 

44 

40 

40 

Carpark 

Carpark 

Lake 

Lake 

45 

45 

LEGEND 

Lower Ground 

46 

46 

47 

47 

Carpark 

Ground 

Level 1 

To Basement To Baseme Carpa 

With a gross built-up area of over 380,000 

square feet (35,303 square metres), Malaysia’s 

largest and award-winning Clubhouse 

at Tropicana Golf & Country Resort is 

truly impressive. This is a listing of all the 

facilities and amenities that are built for 

the convenience of all Tropicana members, 

residents and their guests 

Golf / Sports Membership 03-7804 8888 

Vivian ext 208 

Membership Email membership1@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Golf Email 

golf@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Sports Department 03-7804 2087 

Operating Hours 9.00 am – 6.00 pm (Monday to Friday) 

Email 

gm@tropicanagolf.com 

Website 

www.tropicanagolf.com 


132

THE LIST 

ING DRIVING RANGE RANGE 

Practice Green Practice Green 

Buggy Track Buggy Track 

9th Green9th Green 

FOOD AND BEVERAGE 

Main Wing 

7 Twenty7 03-7804 8888 

(Ext 326) 

15 Gin Shui Tei Japanese Restaurant 03-7886 9168 

36 Poolside Café 03-7804 8888 

(Ext 327) 

9 Spring Garden Tropicana 

Chinese Restaurant 03-7880 7226 

11 The Palms Coffee House 03-7804 8888 

(Ext 306) 

The Palms Wing 

8 Royce 017-322 3668 

26 J Italian Restaurant 03-7805 3925/3935 

25 Myeung Dong Korean BBQ 016-3684500 

cape 

13 

14 

i Thong 

5 

16 

Landscape 

Landscape 

Main 

Lobby 

8 

13 

12 

11 

10 

Main 

Lobby 

9 

8 

MAIN WING 

MAIN WING 

Car Porch 

Car Porch 

12 

Fountain 

Fountain 

7 

11 

10 

9 

asd 

7 

asd 

6 

Main Kitchen 

Main Kitchen 

GOLF WING 

1 

6 

2 

5 

GOLF WING 

1 

Golf 

Counter 

5 

4 4 

3 3 

2 

Golf 

Counter 

Buggy Station 

Buggy Station 

Buggy Pick-up Area 

Buggy Pick-up Area 

EASTERN EASTERN COURSE COURSE 

1st Tee 1st Tee 

SPORTS AND RECREATION 

Sports Wing 

46 Outdoor tennis court 

43 2 indoor tennis courts 

45 4 indoor badminton courts 

31 12-lane computerised bowling alley 

33-34 2 play pools with water slides and waterfall 

42 3 squash courts 

23 Multipurpose studio 

38 Japanese bath and Jacuzzi 

3-4 Male changing rooms with 

360 private lockers 

35 Resort-style larger-than-Olympic-size 

swimming pool 

41 Sauna and steam bath 

24 Snooker room 

39 2 table tennis courts 

40 Well-equipped gymnasium 

44 1 VIP badminton hall 

47 1 futsal court 

LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT 

24 Havana Lounge 017-885 4188 

27 Thai Odyssey Spa & Massage 03-7803 1233/ 

03-7804 1129 

29 Bowling & Café 03-7804 8888 

16 Gaming room 

37 Library 

22 Spine & Joint Tropicana 03-78042072 

Carpark 

Carpark 

Carpark 

Carpark 

Carpark 

FUNCTION AREAS 

6 Greens I 

10 Greens II 

30 Greens III 

32 Poolside Terrace 

28 Spanish Courtyard 

12-14 The Grand Ballroom (First floor) 

Carpark 

Carpark 

ement To Basement Carpark Carpark 

Sales & Marketing (Banquet Function) 03-7804 8888 

Liza ext 141 

Sandy ext 142 

Siti Fairuz ext 155 

Mas Suria ext 517 

Email 

salesmarketing@tropicanacorp.com.my 

Toll Free 1800 88 8128 

Lake 

Lake 

GOLFING FACILITIES 

Golf at Tropicana 03-7804 8888 

(Ext 211/212/200) 

Tropicana Driving Range 016-243 4801/ 

012-278 3172 

Buggies and turf mates 

56-bay driving range 

27-hole championship golf course 

18-hole putting greens 

5 Female changing rooms 

with 60 private lockers 

AMENITIES 

20 Alam Convenience Store 03-7804 3095 

1 De Manshop Tailoring 03-7880 4063 

21 Eco Hair Saloon 03-7804 9316 

2 Pro-Shop Golf Shop 03-7804 6348 

17 Kain 017-200 8142 

18 Kindyland Tropicana 017-314 6754 

48 Klinik Tropicana 03-7805 5461 

19 The Green House Florist 03-7880 1388 

3-4 Prayer room 


THE END | KAPALUA NIKKO CITY, BAY JAPAN BEACH, HAWAII 

“For last year’s words belong to last 

year’s language And next year’s words 

await another voice And to make an end 

is to make a beginning.” 

–TS Elliot– 


134

Tropicana Magazine Jan-Feb 2018 #116: A Start From The Heart

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