GOASIAPLUS October 2018

OCTOBER 2018 | ISSUE 29
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM
FEASTING
ON A
PASSION
MALDIVES OF
INDONESIA
TRAVELLING
FOR CONCERTS

CONTENTS
3 INSIGHT
Fashionably A Foodie
21 SHOPPING
Understanding K-Beauty Products
EDITOR’S
NOTE
Last year I accompanied my father back to
our ancestral home village in Yong Chun,
Fujian, China. As the family chatted in
frenzied excitement catching up, the conversations
inevitably went down the path of my grandfather’s
journey to Malaya. My grandfather came to Malaya
in 1912 and settled down in Sungai Udang in
Melaka to work in the rubber estate.
To most of us it’s another migrant story to
savour but it got me thinking deeper into the
sacrifices and the risks my grandfather had taken
and because of him I could make this journey back
to China under much better circumstances.
We often take for granted those who have
supported us through thick and thin in the course
of our pursuit for bigger and better things in life
and in our careers. Our roots and our beginnings
become oblivion.
Not until two decades ago, when the skies
opened up to make overseas travel accessible, the
proverbial motherland like China, India and United
Kingdom seemed to be an impossible destination.
True to it’s tagline ‘Everyone can fly’, AirAsia
has been opening up destinations to make dreams
come true for families and friends to be reunited
from across the sea. For this, I am thankful.
Sometimes we forget to thank those closest to
us like our spouse or family members who care for
us unconditionally no matter what. Food blogger
and stylist Sara Khong can attest to this (Page 3-5).
When she burnt out from doing her online
fashion business Sara turned to her family who
supported her switch to being a food enthusiast
and cookbook writer. She has since moved back
to stay at home where the family has helped her
to cultivate the garden into a productive organic
vegetable patch.
So, as you get about your daily lives don’t
forget to look up and appreciate those around who
are always there to support you. Celebrate your
awesome relationships with them this October.
John So
Publisher
6 SPECIAL FEATURE
The Ascent of
Dato’ Sri Jessy Lai
10 OUT & ABOUT
12 LOST & FOUND
Revisit Architectural Marvel
14 INSIGHT
Heart and Soul for Sahul
17 TRAVEL
Anambas Islands, Indonesia
EDITORIAL TEAM
GROUP HEAD & BRANDS
JOHN SO
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
JAMIE SOO-HOO
WRITER
JESSY WONG
CONTRIBUTORS
FRANCIS YIP, YY CHEN, SONIA
CHANG, AISHAH AZALI, TAN JO
HANN, HISHAM TALIB
& RICK CHEAH
COVER PHOTO BY
SARA KHONG
25 TRAVEL
Travelling Abroad for Concerts
28 THE FACE-OFF
Satay vs Yakitori
30 FYI: Disaster Proof
32 TRAVEL
Bacolod, Philippines
34 TRAVEL
The Game Plan in Bukit Jalil
36 ON THE RADAR
DIGITAL TEAM
WEB CONTENT
JESSY WONG
EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES
EDITORIAL@PCOMASIA.COM
SENIOR MANAGER
SALES & MARKETING
YONG WANG CHING
YONG@PCOMASIA.COM
COMMERCIAL & PARTNERSHIP
JOHN SO
JOHNSO@PCOMASIA.COM
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INSIGHT
FASHIONABLY
A FOODIE
SARA KHONG IS A FOOD ENTHUSIAST, FOOD
STYLIST AND DEVELOPER OF RECIPES. BUT
SHE DIDN’T START HER CAREER THAT WAY.
Text YY CHEN • Photos YY CHEN & SARA KHONG
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INSIGHT
She is a law graduate but never practised law
for a single day in her life. By the time Sara
graduated, she was well entrenched in another
passion–her online fashion business.
“When I was reading law, I already knew it was
not something for me. Even during internship, I
didn’t do it at a legal firm. Instead, I spent my time
doing lifestyle stuff. I liked fashion and I started a
blog shop in fashion and accessories.
“Four months before graduation and while
waiting for results I started a proper e-commerce
site where payment could be made via credit card. I
would get my stock from Petaling Street. It felt good
to be my own boss. I worked very hard.
“Money was good and I could make RM2,100 a
day at the bazaar.” Sara was 23 and she could sustain
herself with that income.
After about three years of that she burnt out as
keeping up with trends and travelling overseas to buy
goods and shipping them back became a tiring affair.
“I had to buy a lot for the economies of scale. And
fashion accessories are heavy.”
Chasing fashion trends lost its meaning and I like
working for passion and I like working for myself.”
FROM FASHION TO FOOD
“When I was on my own managing my fashion
business I had to cook for myself. I wasn’t a cook at all.
I was more of a kitchen hack and I blogged about it.
And I also blogged about minimalism. I had so much
naturally I need to organise for space. So no choice I
had to be a minimalist.”
At that time, fashion was still a lucrative business
and it sustained Sara for three years. Soon her eye for
fashion buying wasn’t good enough as competition was
keen at her heel and they were also cheaper.
“There were so few people selling fashion online
then. As the business grew, competition also grew and
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INSIGHT
“Cooking is a
lifestyle skill that is
unappreciated.”
I didn’t think of taking a partner.” When the going got
tough, Sara was also missing homecooked food–her
staple of three dishes and one soup!
Soon, out of necessity a passion was born. Sara
became popular for her life hacks that she posted on
her social media. Her website Jewelpie on personal
lifestyle had everything she wanted to do with her life.
A FOOD STYLIST IN THE MAKING
“Basically it was all about what makes me happy and
how to do things easily, like cooking a meal for others
in my situation. It was also during this time that my
fashion business became a chore and I was not enjoying
it anymore.”
Her content got picked up by Buzzfeed especially
about her chance to dine at the prestigious Jiro
restaurant in Japan.
She progressed to being a food stylist and became a
food blogger by starting www.newmalaysiankitchen.com
with all her recipes she developed and collected from
family and friends.
Being an avid reader and a curious one, it helped
her to create and curate content for her website www.
Jewelpie.com. “I am the kind of person who believes that
there must be a different way of doing things. I would
read and research to find a way to solve the problem.
“When I first moved out I didn’t know how to
clean a house so I bought a manual on how to keep
house. I also read about the science of cooking.
Cooking is a lifestyle skill that is unappreciated.”
Her post on how to peel an orange with ease
earned her great following in her blog. MPH
publisher found Sara through the Jewelpie site and
asked her to write a book on how to cook from
home targeting the younger generation.
ADVOCATOR OF SUSTAINABLE LIVING
Looking for different ways to carry out a task seems
to be Sara’s inherent trait. As she ventured further
into the food industry, Sara realised she needed to
be formally trained. She packed her bags and set off
to Beijing, China for a two-year culinary course.
Her first cookbook is Malaysian Meals in
30 minutes and subsequent two were One Pot
Wonders and 3-Ingredient Recipes.
She has since moved back to stay at her family
home where there is a large compound where
Sara has cultivated her organic vegetable garden.
In some of her freelance work she is required to
develop recipes and do cooking demonstrations for
her clients.
Sara is also an artist and she approaches her
recipes and cooking with much creativity and she
keeps a journal of her work.
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SPECIAL FEATURE
THE ASCENT
OF DATO’ SRI
JESSY LAI
IT IS HER HOME RECIPE; A SPOONFUL OF
OPTIMISM, A DOSE OF COURAGE AND
A DASH OF SMILE ARE ALL IT TAKES FOR
JESSY LAI TO BECOME AN ENTREPRENEUR
AND A LEADER. TOPPED WITH A STATE
CONFERRED TITLE OF DATO’ SRI, JESSY
LAI LETS HER ACHIEVEMENTS TO SPELL
OUT HER HARD WORK.
Text JESSY WONG
Photos RICK CHEAH & DATO’ SRI JESSY LAI
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SPECIAL FEATURE
The faint smell of chlorine wafts in the air
as I got out of my car. I was invited over to
Jessy’s residence for the meeting, a place of
wonder for many curious admirers of hers so it is a
work pleasure for me–to be able to meet her behind
closed doors.
Turning heads, beckoning attention, that is the
aura that she carries upon entering the room. It is
neither the casual white T-shirt she wears nor the
perfectly trimmed and styled short hair that calls
for a noticeable appearance. It is confidence.
Right in her element, Jessy welcomes her guests
with familiarity, food and warmth; just like any
other Malaysian. When one would think that as an
owner of a multinational company, she would be
wearing a golden robe or glass slippers. Well, they
are not all wrong. Jessy is surprisingly ordinary but
she’s definitely not an average person.
HAPPY GO LUCKY
In an Asian family, it is inevitable for anyone to be
spared from the unspoken agony of being compared
with your siblings by your relatives. As a child, Jessy
sees her elder sister being favoured by everyone.
She was born as a second child with 5 years of
difference with her sister. Compared with her elder
sibling, she has short spiky hair, monolid eyes and a
flat nose. “My relatives would ask my mother how
did she gave birth to two contrasting children; one
so lovely and another so ugly”, Jessy recollects.
This trial in her childhood days does not end
inside the walls of her house. It extends to her
school where teachers would note the differences
between the sisters. But she does not allow that to
put a dent in her.
“Despite lacking in my appearance, I have a
positive and cheerful character since I was young.
Just very happy go lucky. The environment in which
I was raised in empowers me to be brave and gave
me the strength to face different situations”.
Jessy grew up in fairly moderate household in
Malacca. She wasn’t raised in a lap of luxury but
she’s rich in self-motivation. “Since I don’t have the
‘look’, I told myself to be better, kinder, to improve
and excel from the inside–it’s okay to be short. I
can be a petite person but with a huge heart.”
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SPECIAL FEATURE
“ There is no point
making promises with
no actual fulfillment
so we do our part by
proving ourselves.”
MAKING HER OWN PATH
Freshly graduated from high school, she took on a
job that she thought would fit well with her cheerful
personality. Jessy became a kindergarten teacher at
18 years old.
“I was confident I could perform well. I was the
champion in storytelling competitions so I looked
forward to telling stories to my nursery children.
Little did I know that it won’t come true–because of
language barrier”.
The road bumps in the job did not make her
quit. Instead she worked on her shortcomings and
prevailed for 4 years teaching children.
Every successful person have their own
inspiration and for Jessy, it was the kindergarten
owner that struck a chord in her. “She’s the first
person that I truly admire. Even after knowing my
challenges, she didn’t let me go. She arranged me to
teach music instead.”
Her influence as a music teacher made a change
in the kindergarten’s atmosphere. While previously
it was strictly lessons, the environment became
more lively when kids started to sing even in the
playground. From there, Jessy knows that she has the
power to make a difference if she persevered.
A MULTINATIONAL BUSINESSWOMAN
The year of 2014 is a significant time for Jessy when
she founded her own company–the Monspace
Multinational Corporation. Although it is based in
Malaysia, the company actually started out in China.
Jessy is not the first Malaysian entrepreneur to
spearhead her business on international grounds; but
till today, it is one of her proudest achievements to
date.
“The country is my platform of growth. My
strategy is to analyse the trend and future needs in
China and whatever vision I have for China, I will
apply it for my own nation in Malaysia and expand it
to international waters. This is how we have achieved
20 million users worldwide.”
Monspace is known for their multi-industrial
investments namely e-commerce, tourism, aviation,
entertainment, property, finance, agriculture,
beauty, health, food and beverage as well as in
telecommunications. While looking back, Jessy did
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SPECIAL FEATURE
her first business deal by selling cosmetics in her
part-time job.
“My sister got me into network marketing when I
moved to Kuala Lumpur. The multifaceted aspects in
being a network marketer is a way of growth for me
as it inspires me to constantly improve myself.”
“I’ve sold vitamins, water filter, health foods and
etc. Everytime I’m given a new task, it is a chance
for me to learn about the industry and products.
One also must be optimistic as a network marketer.
There will be rejections and complains daily so it is
important to be driven and disciplined in whatever
we are doing.”
Jessy shares that there are more women working
in this industry than men because network marketing
is constantly seen as merely a part-time job. As
men are mostly the breadwinners of their families,
it is less likely for them to be a network marketer
as it is not a stable job so the members are mostly
housewives.
“In our business, we don’t make promises but we
show our trust and outcome through the work we do.
There is no point making promises with no actual
fulfillment so we do our part by proving ourselves.”
Therefore, from a network marketer to a
multinational businesswoman, she is keen to show
the world that anything can happen if you put your
mind into it. Just as they say, winners never quit and
quitters never win. As of now, Monspace has various
international projects and one of it is the placements
of massage chairs in main airports and train stations
across China.
Monspace also has investments in research
supplements for space astronauts and
commercialising it to the public in China. Other
than that, the company is starting their own study in
satellites for the future.
Despite her huge network and notable business
ventures, she does not see Monspace as a ‘successful’
business. “We are only a 4-year-old baby. A business
that can last for a century is what I am aiming for
so I’m laying the foundation now for our growth in
times to come.”
KINDNESS MATTERS
A company is also a reflection of the founder. From
the way things run and the various business ventures
of Monspace, Jessy believes that every decision
must be earnest and transparent in actions. After
all, ‘Monspace’ can be directly translated–from the
French word mon (my)–as ‘my space’.
To her, the multinational company can only come
through with the right people on board. “Most of the
time, I receive project proposals for the company.
It doesn’t matter if it is a good project (or not). I
will give it a go mostly depending on the organising
person behind it.”
Not only limited to business potentials, the
big-hearted girl from Malacca is also a known
philanthropist across the world.
“There are so many people that needs help in
this world. It is beyond our capacity to reach out to
everyone so I believe in destiny to show me the way. I
will do the best I can to help those that stumble upon
my path.”
You may follow her journey more intimately
through www.jessylai.com where she often blogs about
her philosophies and snippets of her life.
Understanding her love to motivate through
speech and writing, I asked Jessy to share the title
of her autobiography–if she were to have one. She
laughed and answered, “ 用 生 命 影 响 生 命 , meaning
life inspiring life”.
Interlinking with her company’s motto, Jessy
is hopeful in using one’s life experience to inspire
others. Like everybody else, success did not
come overnight and she lives in the belief that
perseverance and hard work will reap its reward.
Beyond achievement and recognition, having the
fulfillment of helping others brings peace and
happiness to oneself.
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 9

EVENTS
OUT & ABOUT
LOOK OUT FOR THE MOST ANTICIPATED EVENTS OF
THE MONTH IN MALAYSIA AND BEYOND
WINNER 2018 EVERYWHERE TOUR
14 OCT
Performing for the first time in Malaysia, YG
Entertainment K-pop boygroup WINNER is
all prepped to meet their international fans
in their long-awaited tour. The 4-member
stars, Yoon, Jinu, Hoony and Mino debuted
in South Korea 4 years ago topping charts
worldwide with their lead single ‘Empty’.
Stadium Malawati, Shah Alam
www.ticketcharge.com.my
IL DIVO TIMELESS TOUR
7 OCT
The pop-opera powerhouse group
is making a stop in Malaysia in
their worldwide tour to promote
their new self-produced album
‘Timeless’. The quartet is known
to blend their operatic vocals
with many genres from pop,
folk, tango, Latin and others to
breathe a new life into music.
Arena of Stars,
Resorts World Genting, Pahang
www.rwgenting.com
SPEAK YOUR MIND TOUR
22 OCT
Anne-Marie turned into a huge star as
UK’s biggest-selling breakthrough artist
of 2018 with the release of her debut
album ‘Speak Your Mind’ and various
collaborations hits with Marshmello,
Clean Bandit and David Guetta. Since
then, Anne-Marie has more than 5
billion streams and over 10 million
global sales as a new pop artist.
Zepp@Big Box, Singapore
www.apactix.com
STYLO GENTLEMEN’S WEEKEND
26-28 OCT
This is not your usual weekend getaway.
STYLO International is organising
its inaugural STYLO Gentlemen’s
Weekend, an innovative lifestyle event
showcasing gentlemen’s lifestyle
brands, such as men’s fashion, luxury
yachts, classic cars, supercars, sea
planes, charter helicopter in over 150
booths and more. Open to public and
invited guests.
Puteri Harbour, Johor
+6019-383 3289
TIFFIN FOOD COURT
EVERY THURSDAYS TO
SUNDAYS TILL 21 OCTOBER
A multi-layered Malaysian gastronomy
experience returns to Klang Valley with
the latest food trends, hosting more than
50 vendors and partners on site topped
with various live DJ acts. The party event
even feature four new restaurants from
gourmet joint to bubble tea cafe to debut
their menu to the public.
Lot 15, Jalan 13/6,
Seksyen 13, Petaling Jaya
www.tiffin.my
ITB ASIA 2018
17-19 OCT
Asia’s leading travel trade show
gathers major hoteliers and tourism
agencies as exhibitors for their 11th
installment this year. Not only limited
within Asia, the annual trade show
and convention features exhibitors
and participants from America, Africa
and Middle East. GOASIAPLUS travel
magazine is an official media partner
with ITB Asia.
Sands Expo and Convention Centre,
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
www.itb-asia.com
10 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

#iLoveMYairportsApp
INSTAGRAM
CONTEST
How to participate?
1
Follow Malaysia Airports
Instagram account - @malaysiaairports
(Remember to set your Instagram account to
"Public", or else we won’t be able to see your
posting
2
Download the “MYairports App”
and take a photo to show yourself using the app
3
4
Post the photo on your Instagram
account
and tag @malaysiaairports and 5 of your friends
Write a catchy caption starting with
‘#iLoveMYairportsApp because ……….
(not more than 50 words). The caption must be
written in either English or Bahasa Malaysia only
RM
Contest Period
3 SEPT - 31 OCT 2018
Total Prizes Worth
TO BE WON
Terms and conditions apply
*ANDROID VER 6 & ABOVE
Log on to our website for the full terms and conditions
malaysiaairports.com.my

LOST & FOUND
REVISIT
ARCHITECTURAL
MARVEL
Text and photos
FRANCIS YIP
One of the most amazing things in Malaysia is
the diversity of Malaysian architecture. From
the pre-war places of worship, shophouses,
colonial mansions, townhalls to civic buildings and
majestic skyscrapers, these architectural marvels are
expressions of Malaysia’s multicultural make-up and
influences from the colonial era.
PRE-WAR ARCHITECTURE
Take a stroll along George Town, Melaka City and
Kuala Lumpur. You will bound to discover many
pre-war Chinese shophouses which were built
with a perfect balance of function and symbolism.
They carry the same basic use of space and feature,
including a Chinese screen behind the doorway
to prevent bad energy, a courtyard for ventilation
and natural sunlight, a Chinese altar and doors
with elaborate design. Traditionally, the walls were
plastered with off-white colour and built with pitched
roofs covered with clay roof tiles.
Their facade ornamentation was often inspired
by Malay, Chinese and European designs. The
Malay design included elaborate woodwork, carved
panels, fascia board and louvres. The Straits Chinese
designs were often driven by mythological motifs like
phoenix, dragon, floral and geometric motifs.
From shophouses, we move to buildings that
became the landmark of a city. These buildings have
Mughal or Moorish, Tudor, Neo-Gothic and Grecian-
Spanish architecture. Many of the designs were
modified to suit the locals and the hot climate.
The Moorish design with elegant dome-capped
pavilion and arch can be seen on the Sultan Ahmad
Samad building which was the key landmark of Kuala
Lumpur city before Petronas Twin Towers. Apart
from it, the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station completed
in 1910 also has such Moorish design.
At the turn of the 20th century, buildings start
to exhibit Victorian and Tudor influences. The Royal
Selangor Club featuring large exposed wooden beams
in half-timbered walls were the typical model for
social club buildings in the early days.
Carcosa Seri Negara is a fine example of Victorian
styled heritage hotel in a historic mansion. In fact, it
was recently featured in ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ movie.
MODERNIST ARCHITECTURE
Post-war era has seen modernist architecture making
great strides especially after independence. The
Parliament House and National Mosque are some of
modernist architectural wonders.
As a Muslim nation, Malaysia has adopted many
Islamic architecture in residential and commercial
buildings. Putrajaya has many Islamic architectural
designs as evident in Putra Mosque and Seri Perdana.
So what makes a Malaysian architecture?
According to architect, KC Tan, “Malaysian
architecture is more than just being Malay, Chinese,
Indian or vernacular designs. It is still in a process of
finding its own identity unlike Malaysian food which
already has one.”
But one thing is certain, Malaysia is standing tall
by having Petronas Twin Towers, the world’s highest
twin towers right here in Kuala Lumpur.
Special thanks to KC Tan of KC Tan Architect.
FRANCIS YIP always loses himself but somehow, finds his way back with lots of juicy stories to share. Forgive him if he sparks a debate.
Love him if he unlocks hidden jewels. So heavenly, so travelicious with him!
www.franciswriter.com franciswriterAd franciswriter
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INSIGHT
1
HEART AND
SOUL FOR
SAHUL
FROM HANDLING A MERE ROADSIDE
STALL TO FOUNDING JOHOR’S TRENDIEST
MAMAK RESTAURANT, IT TAKES YEARS
OF DETERMINATION AND HARD WORK
FOR SAHUL HAMEED TO CARVE HIS OWN
PATH OF SUCCESS FROM SCRATCH.
Text JESSY WONG
Photos JESSY WONG & RESTORAN E&Y SAHUL
Surely, there are plenty of mamak franchises
in Malaysia but in Johor, Restoran E&Y
Sahul wears the crown and dominate our
Malaysian favourite food scene at the southern
state. The sight of the crowd during the World
Cup 2018 finale will you make you join their cult.
Serving over two thousand people in a night,
Restoran E&Y Sahul continues to be a choice of
comfort and indulgence.
2
KEEPING THE DREAM ALIVE
It was not an easy journey for Sahul Hameed
E. Yacob to start-up this mega franchise in his
hometown–but it is a clear-cut vision for Sahul to
become an entrepreneur. He was only 11 years old
when his father has left the earthly realms. Yet, his
father gave a long-lasting impression on him.
“When I was a kid, I was already groomed into
the food industry by helping out at my father’s
mamak shop. It was just a small business but
back then, it is my family’s source of income”, he
shares. After his father’s passing, Sahul worked in
various jobs from a dishwasher, kitchen helper to
a pandan tapper.
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INSIGHT
“As I grew up, I wanted nothing more than to
have my own business.”
3
5
4
“So as I grew up, I wanted nothing more than to
have my own business. In 1994, me and my family
opened a small warung in front of a bank selling mee
goreng mamak (mamak signature fried noodles), mee
rojak (noodle salad dish), mixed rice and teh tarik.”
In two years, they managed to move their warung
into a rented shophouse with the support of their
regular customers. For Sahul, managing the familybusiness
helps him to polish his skills.
“It wasn’t until 2008 when I could finally realise
my dream of becoming a restaurant owner. It is truly
a joyous moment for me to launch my first Restoran
E&Y Sahul at Jalan Maju in Johor Bahru; and the rest
is history.”
WITH SWEAT AND SMILES
Pick anything off their menu and Sahul knows how to
make it for you. He is one of the restaurant franchise
owners who takes pride in his products and manages
his workers from top to bottom. “Since I laboured
over different kinds of jobs, I am skilled in every
aspect in running a restaurant.”
“Here, we have all sorts of Malaysian cuisine.
Nasi lemak, tandoori chicken, char kway teow,
mutton soup, rojak, briyani are some of the popular
ones.” However, the highlight of Sahul’s cooking is
the famous fish head curry in Restoran E&Y Sahul.
As an ever-growing entrepreneur, his interest in
innovating allows his customer to create their own
menu. “These days people have a variety of appetite.
You can order out of the menu and we will make it
if we have the ingredients on hand. We just had an
order for roti tisu with chocolate cream.”
All these couldn’t have happened without the
support of the locals, he emphasises. Therefore
his biggest mission is to build a closely knitted
relationship with his customers. Restoran E&Y
Sahul stands out from the rest of mamak franchises
with their community programs by organising fun
competitions for his customers to walk away with
electronic gifts.
The biggest and most celebrated occasion was
during the World Cup 2018 finale in their Adda
Heights branch in Bandar Dato Onn where more than
two thousand people gathered in his restaurant to
catch the games on the big screen.
After five franchises across Johor Bahru, he is
planning newer and more innovative things for his
business. While sharing his fascination for frozen
foods, “in future, I might build a hotel or you’ll even
see the first drive thru for nasi campur in Malaysia,”
he smiles.
1 Sahul Hameed E. Yacob at
his Adda Heights branch in
Bandar Dato Onn 2 Sahul
showing off his Teh Tarik
skills 3 Signature Nasi Briyani
Kashmir 4 A selection of nasi
kandar dishes 5 The massive
crowd at Restoran E&Y Sahul
during World Cup 2018
SIGNATURE
FOOD TO PAIR
NASI BRIYANI
KASHMIR
Mixed rice dish
cooked with spices
adorned with
chicken, cashew nuts
and boiled egg.
TEH TARIK HALIA
Malaysian’s favourite
‘pulled’ milk tea with
a dose of ginger.
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TRAVEL
1
ANAMBAS ISLANDS:
THE MALDIVES OF
INDONESIA
2
3
ANAMBAS ISLANDS ARE NAMED ASIA’S BEST
TROPICAL ISLAND PARADISE BY CNN IN
2012. IT IS LOCATED 150 NAUTICAL MILES
NORTHEAST OF BATAM ISLAND IN THE
NORTH NATUNA SEA BETWEEN PENINSULAR
MALAYSIA AND BORNEO.
Text FRANCIS YIP • Photos FRANCIS YIP, HISHAM TALIB
& WISATA ANAMBAS
If we talk about holidaying in Indonesia, the first
destination on the checklist is most likely Bali
island. But did you know within the Riau Islands
province of Indonesia is a lesser known island
regency boasting 255 equally fascinating island gems?
“If the picture perfect sapphire waters, pristine
beaches with pearly white sands and rainbow corals
remind tourists of Maldives, then Anambas Islands
are the Maldives of Indonesia,” says Zainul Idris
Yunus, the Executive Economic Affairs Consulate
General of Republic of Indonesia in Johor Bahru.
The islands regency has only 26 occupied islands
while 229 islands are still untouched, waiting to be
discovered. And I was fortunate to be invited by the
Indonesian Government for a 5-day trip to explore
these island gems.
FANTASY ISLANDS
Built above the sea, Anambas Resort Water Villa has
a private balcony where I can feed the fishes in the
waters. It is located in Tanjung Tebu, Terempa town
of Siantan Island which is part of Anambas Islands.
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TRAVEL
4 5
1 Overview of Piugus Island
2 Underwater table coral 3 A
blue starfish 4 The Temburun
Waterfall 5 Boy with a freshly
caught fish in Jemaja Island 6
The town of Terempa, Siantan
Island 7 Houses on stilts in
Terempa 8 The Napoleon fish
9 Bawah Island
6
The view from the villa are truly captivating with a
clear sight of corals, little fishes and at times, turtles
teeming on the sea.
Coincidentally, I arrived in Anambas Islands at the
time when the local community were celebrating its
10th anniversary of Anambas Islands as a regency in
the Riau Islands Province under the Law No. 33 (2008).
Count myself lucky. I witnessed the festival
concert, showcasing traditional song, dance and the
best of all, a parade of dancers in colourful costumes
akin to the cosplay of Japanese anime–from fishes to
octopuses and seahorses.
ISLAND HOPPING
Apart from enjoying a taste of local culture, the best
thing to do in Anambas Islands is certainly island
hopping. It let me experience more than just sun, sea
and sand but the differences of the islands. Whether it
is Bawah Island, Jemaja Island, Siantan Island, Matak
Island or Penjalin Island, these islands are unique in
their own way.
My favourite island is definitely Penjalin Island.
This island is blessed with white sandy beaches with
sand as soft and delicate as flour. There are granite
rocks piling up on the beach, providing a perfect
panoramic view of this pristine island. I had a
splashing time taking selfie, carving my name on the
carpet of sand, dipping into the crystal clear water
and letting the little fishes surround my feet.
My next island hopping adventure is Bawah
Island. This is the most popular island of Anambas
which offers 3 naturally protected lagoons, 5 primeval
forests and best of all, 13 beaches which you don’t
have to share with the crowd. The alluring landscape
still remains as in 10,000 years ago although there is
currently a luxury resort–Bawah Reserve–with rooms
priced as high as USD1,780 and above per night.
For me, Bawah Island is a perfect natural, idyllic
island getaway. In fact, it is Bawah Island that lends
it's charms for Anambas Islands to be named as Asia’s
Best Tropical Island Paradise by CNN.
Another enchanting stop is Jemaja Island. I made
a quick visit to Padang Melang Beach, renowned for
having the longest coastline, as long as 8km in the
province of Riau Islands. I was told that the annual
Padang Melang Festival was held here with 3-day of
merry-making like folk games, music, dances, boat
races and culinary fair.
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TRAVEL
7 8
9
good memories of my youth.
A trip to Anambas Islands will not be complete
without a feast on the famous Nasi Padang which is
also known as Rijsttafel from the Dutch for rice table.
Nasi Padang consists of fish, beef, mutton, vegetables
and spicy grinded chillies. To me, Dara Manis Café &
Restaurant in Matak Island serves the best and most
authentic Nasi Padang.
I also sampled sotong masak hitam (fried spicy
black squid) but the best pampering of culinary
delight was the exotic Napolean Fish which costs
over USD250 per kilogram. This is the most
expensive fish I have ever eaten in my life! In
addition, I treated myself with Luti Gendang, a
traditional local bread and Keropok Atom, crispy
“Trying to catch fishes at the edge of the deck
brought back good memories of my youth.”
DIVING PARADISE
Anambas Islands are every diver’s dream. For diving
instructor, Mark Rahman who was with me in this
trip, Anambas Islands have lots of soft corals and
this makes it unique compared to other islands in
Malaysia. Some of the marine life found are angelfish,
turtle, barracudas batfish, nudibranchs, crocodile
fish, blue-spotted stingray, moray eels and more.
With many soft corals surrounding the islands,
divers love to go snorkelling or deep sea diving and
play in the sapphire blue sea. The best dive sites are
Tokong Berlayar and Malang Biru which have steep
slopes, the Katoaka reef, Igara and Seven Skies Wreck
which is considered as the diver’s playground. As
Anambas Islands are still relatively untouched, one
can easily get lost in the paradise with sheer delight.
LOCAL FEAST
Back in Terempa, the capital town of Anambas
Islands, I was awe-struck by the sights of the port
dotting the coastal line of the town. This panoramic
view looks similar to the Mediterranean coastal
villages in Europe. Seeing the local children trying
to catch fishes at the edge of the deck brought back
round-shaped fries.
On the final day home, I passed by Penyengat
Island, just minutes off the coast of Tanjung Pinang.
This island is famed as the cultural and royal throne
of Malay Riau-Lingga Sultanate in the 19th century.
At the Balai Adat Indera Perkasa, I had a great
time cosplaying. With gold sequinned yellow
costumes, a tengkolok (headgear) and a kris (dagger)
in hand, I could be easily mistaken as a Riau Sultan.
With so much to do but so little time, I left
nothing but footprints and took nothing but pictures
in Anambas Islands. And I totally agree with Pak
Zainul that the islands regency is truly the Maldives
of Indonesia.
GETTING THERE
Total of 4-5 hours by these routes:
3 HOURS BY FERRY from Stulang Jetty, Johor Bahru
to Tanjung Pinang, Bintan Island
1 HOUR BY FLIGHT from Tanjung Pinang Airport
(Bintan Island) to Matak Airport (Matak Island)
15 MINUTES BY BOAT from Matak Island to
Anambas Resort Water Villa
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 19

SHOP
UNDERSTANDING
K-BEAUTY PRODUCTS
KOREAN BEAUTY PRODUCTS HAVE MADE ITS WAY INTO THE MALAYSIAN MARKET FOR SOME
TIME NOW AND IT REMAINS A POPULAR SELECTION. THERE’S A REASON WHY K-BEAUTY
PRODUCTS STAY ON AND WHY MORE K-BEAUTY BRANDS CONTINUE TO ENTER THE
MALAYSIAN BEAUTY INDUSTRY.
Text SONIA CHANG • Photos ADOBE STOCK
Korean beauty products are known for their vast
choices of selection that allow buyers to choose
according to what attracts them and what they
are looking for.
Moreover, Korean brands do not solely focus on
their wide array of cosmetics but also their skincare
products targeting different skin types and their
needs. Although many Korean brands are owned by
huge conglomerates such as Amore Pacific, the price,
quality, branding and packaging varies and ranges
from low to high-end. Consumers can purchase the
brands according to their purchasing power and needs.
I believe the different price point for each brand exist
because of its history. After all, products are very
subjective according to individuals and what suits.
Some K-brands you can easily spot in numerous
malls are Sulwhasoo, Laneige and Innisfree.
Sulwhasoo is known for its luxurious ginseng
that is infused in their signature products and it is
a heritage brand that represents Korea. The overall
impression of the brand exhibits the traditional
Korean culture and it is not surprising why gifting
Sulwhasoo products to honourable guests, signifies a
piece of what Korea is known for. Sulwhasoo is widely
known internationally and many have raved about
its quality and results. However, there is no doubt
that the price range is on the higher side ranging
from RM100 and above. I personally enjoy a couple
of products from this brand such as their make-up
balancer, hydro-aid moisturizing soothing cream, first
care activating serum EX, first care activating serum
mist and concentrated ginseng renewing cream. You
can trust that their signature products are of its finest
quality and promising results due to intensive research
conducted and the products that remain steadfast
even after 50 years, with added improvements.
When it comes to middle range products that
works and do not burn a hole in your purse or wallet,
Laneige is the one to go to. They have products
that cater for young skin all the way up to mature
skin making sure their quality is on par. The one
product that Laneige is known for is none other
than their sleeping mask. Their stores and products
are conveniently found globally and due to its
accessibility, many are aware of the brand that also
carries positive feedback. Moreover, many well-known
celebrities endorse and promote their products. Their
price range starts from RM70 onwards.
Eco-friendly and Jeju originated ingredients are
what makes Innisfree the brand it is. Many customers
enjoy the array of selection that Innisfree have to
offer. From their famous green tea range collection to
their custom palette or cushion counter and a spread
of their facial sheet masks for buyers to choose from
depending on different needs and expected texture.
Spoiled with choices along with the more affordable
price point, meant that a larger crowd of people have
the freedom to buy what suits and are attracted to.
Price range starts from RM10 onwards.
All in all, beauty products are very subjective
according to individual preferences, what they are
looking for and what works. Budget is another factor
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SHOP
“It is best to
discover and
explore the
wide selection
available and find
the best option.”
to consider when it comes to choosing the products.
I personally enjoy and notice results with Sulwhasoo
as I grow older whereas others may find Laneige or
Innisfree equally effective. Therefore, it is best to
discover and explore the wide selection available and
find the best option. K-beauty products are known to
be generous with their samples so there is no harm
asking if they could provide you some for you to try
them out.
Besides purchasing in stores, you can also look
out for websites that carry a wide array of brands
such as Hermo and Althea.
SHEET MASKS
Sheet masks have become part of a lifestyle for
both men and women and it is known to be the key
aspect to improved skin quality and texture. The
concentrated serum or essence that is infused in
sheet masks helps to combat dryness, acne, pores,
dullness, to name a few depending on what it is made
for. Celebrities are known to depend on these facial
sheet masks that contribute to their glowing skin
especially amongst the Asian market. Some have
even gone to the extreme of masking 2-3 times a day
because it claims to have good results for the skin.
Additionally, prepping the canvas for make-up to stay
and cling on better. There are countless masks and
brands to choose from and they all have different
feeling and finishes. Some stores you can look out for
are SASA, Watsons, Guardian and other stores that
carry multiple K-beauty brands.
TRAVELLING ESSENTIALS
What are some travelling essentials to bring with
you? I would like to share some of my travel tips
because you never know when you need them!
SUNSCREEN – Very crucial to protect the skin from
UV rays that will bring harm to the skin in the long
run especially you spend most of the time outdoor
when travelling. Best is to apply ones with SPF 50
PA+++ for peace of mind protection. Do reapply
because sunscreen may wear out during the day
hence sunscreen spray is a good alternative with
less hassle.
MAKE-UP WIPES & WET WIPES – A convenient way to
wipe excess dirt before washing. Additionally, when
there is no water supply this will come in handy to
freshen up temporarily.
SHEET MASKS – Good way to wind down after a long
day just before sleep and waking up to well rested,
smooth and glowing skin. Do pack ones according to
the destination and environment you will be in.
TRAVELLING SIZE TOILETRIES – Less bulky and less
heavy. Makes a difference if it’s a shopping trip.
Samples from your trusted brands are a good way
to try something new and you can dispose them
whenever it is empty.
FACIAL MIST – Not only does it hydrate but also
helps cool down the skin in the heat and a perfect
way to freshen up too.
MULTI-PURPOSE BALM OR OINTMENT – To treat dry,
flaky skin, itchiness and bites. Great way to use as a
lip balm too if you forget to bring one or misplace it.
PROBIOTICS, VITAMIN C & PANADOL – Falling sick
during a trip is definitely not fun at all but having
these could help relieve some discomfort. Moreover,
it prevents you from falling sick from the lack of
sleep and over-indulging.
22 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

ADVERTORIAL
A SIGHT
TO BEHOLD
Travelling does take a toll on you so don’t blame the
world dull just because you couldn’t see correctly.
After all, we need our eyes to see in order to
feel it in our hearts. Here, Dr Chong Kheng Yaw,
ophthalmology specialist from Pantai Hospital Cheras
shares 7 basic eye care steps for healthier, clearer vision.
SHOP FOR EYE DROPS
Use eye drops or tear drops during long flights in
airplane to prevent dry eyes. It is advisable for contact
lens users to use it at all time and make sure it is
preservative free for long-term eye drops user.
CLEANSE YOUR LENS
For people who wear contact lenses, reduce the chance
of eye fatigue and infection by using daily disposable
lenses when you travel to maximize cleanliness for
your eyes.
SHIELD AGAINST THE SUN
Before you work on that tan, always protect your eyes
from with the right type of sunglasses to protect it from
direct UV rays.
EXERCISE YOUR EYES
You don’t have to go to the gym for this. Practice the 20-
20-20 rule for people who are often fixated on computer
or phone screen to avoid Computer Vision Syndrome.
For every 20 minutes, blink 20 times looking at
something 20 feet away regularly to improve your vision.
REAP WHAT YOU EAT
Travel foods can be tempting but remember to eat
colourful vegetables when you can.
URBAN EYE ALLERGY SYNDROME
Frequent itching, redness, swollen eyes or eyelids might
be symptoms of ocular allergy for people living in cities
caused by air pollutants. Therefore, everyone should
consult an eye doctor for tests for at least once in their
lifetime.
HAVE A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP
Many forget that the overall body health is equivalent
to eyes health. Make sure you get a good rest
while you travel. Also, getting enough sleep
can prevent possible eye infection.
Dr Chong Kheng Yaw
Opthalmologist
M.B.S.S (J.N.M.C), MS
Ophthalmology (U.M.)
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
1, Jalan 1/96A, Taman Cheras Makmur, 56100 Kuala Lumpur
03-9145 2888 | www.pantai.com.my/cheras

TRAVEL
TRAVELLING ABROAD
FOR CONCERTS
CATCH YOUR FAVOURITE ARTISTS LIVE EVEN IF IT IS IN OUTSIDE YOUR
COUNTRY BECAUSE THERE ARE PEOPLE THAT GO TO LENGTHS TO CATCH
THEIR MUSICAL IDOLS ON STAGE. AISHAH AZALI INTERVIEWED TWO LADIES
WHO HAVE FREQUENTLY TRAVELLED ABROAD FOR CONCERTS TO GET SOME
TIPS ON HOW THEY MANAGED IT WHILE HAVING THE TIME OF THEIR LIVES.
Text AISHAH AZALI • Photos JESSY WONG & ADOBE STOCK
Experiencing a concert, festival or anything
remotely musical in a live setting is exhilarating
as it comes especially if it is an artist or genre
of your liking. Recent years has seen the surge of
international artists and festivals visiting Asia to the
delight of music lovers of the region. Artists like Katy
Perry, Coldplay and Bruno Mars have dropped by
with their world tours that brought along extravagant
sets and costumes.
Not only concerts, festivals that span a couple of
days give the option of seeing multiple entertainers
with popular ones like Clockenflop in Hong Kong,
Laneway Festival in Singapore and Good Vibes in
Kuala Lumpur giving a stage for sought-after and
even up-and-coming musicians to showcase their art.
But let’s face it; if you are a music enthusiast that
lives in Malaysia, chances are you have noticed that
many big-name performers have skipped our shores
to perform in neighbouring countries like Singapore
and Indonesia. Pressure from religious groups,
tight regulations, lack of sponsorship or not a big
enough fan base are just a few of the problems that
arise when promoters attempt to organise an event
here. This is evident in the fact that superstars like
Coldplay, Britney Spears and the latest, Celine Dion
have chosen to perform elsewhere.
That has not stopped some concert goers from
seeing their idols live as the ease of purchasing
tickets, accessibility to travelling and the rise of
packaged concert travel sites has made travelling for
music not impossible.
FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC
When you have an eclectic taste in music, chances
are the local fan base is small therefore not creating
enough buzz for the artist to perform in Malaysia.
That is the usual case for account manager and
music lover Tricia Lim, whose more alternative
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 25

TRAVEL
taste has taken her across the world to see her favourite
bands. She has gone beyond Asia, experiencing singers
like Amanda Palmer in Australia and The Wombats in
Prague.
“I started in the US with the band The Hush Sound
and William Becketts about 6 years ago,” she explained,
already citing her interest for musicians that are not
necessarily commercially popular on the radio or even
heard of on this side of the world.
This was the same instance when I interviewed
analyst Zhi Hui who have an admiration towards
Japanese bands or J-Pop. After missing a concert once
by Japanese rock band One OK Rock, she jumped on
the chance when they decided to perform in Singapore.
With proper planning and a set budget, she made her
dreams come true and got to finally see them live. Her
latest jaunt took her to Sarawak to catch the Rainforest
Festival with her mother.
“It was scary at first but you learn and adapt,”
she said, recalling an incident where she was stuck at
immigration while attempting to enter Singapore by bus.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR CONCERT TRAVELLING
TICKETS FIRST - Tickets can sold out in a blink of
an eye so before you purchase any flights or hotels,
secure your ticket first. Another tip is to buy the
tickets from reputable places. Tricia and Zhi Hui
would usually buy from the artist’s own website or
third-party sites that were promoted by the artist
itself through their social media platforms.
VENUE PROXIMITY - For easy accessibility and
timeliness of arrival to your concert venue, best
get an accommodation that is close to the public
transport. In countries like Singapore or Japan,
the train system is vast and efficient. Utilise the
trains and bus systems to the extent and also take
the opportunity to explore the livelier parts of the
city. But for cities like Jakarta that are notorious
for their traffic jams, it is wiser to find a place
closer to the venue.
SAFETY FIRST - If you are travelling alone and
especially if you are a female, try to stick to busier
neighbourhoods where there is more traffic of
people. You will be closer to eateries, malls and
convenience stores making it more accessible for
you if you need a midnight snack. Give all-female
boarding a try like what many capsule hotels are
doing, providing all female dorms.
THE RISE OF PACKAGED DEALS
Though people like Tricia and Zhi Hui prefer to
buy their concert tickets, flight accommodation
and hotel themselves, there has been a rise in
websites that offer the ultimate musical travel
experience that is already packaged for your
convenience.
RECOMMENDED TRAVEL SITES
GIGLIFEASIA
Purchase concert tickets with added hotel
accommodation in the deal, as offered by
GigLifeAsia. You can even choose your package
based on your hotel budget as GigLifeAsia
offers a luxury, boutique and budget options.
Some even offer complimentary transport to the
venue! They feature events all across Asia from
Singapore all the way up north to Japan and the
Philippines.
www.giglifeasia.com
EVENT TRAVEL
For a musical adventure in England, this website
offers packaged deals that sometimes include
meet and greet passes to see your favourite
stars up close. The deals are curated for concerts
by big name artists like Bruno Mars, Paul
McCartney and Michael Buble. This has more of
a VIP experience if you purchase through them;
as many additional perks like access to food and
the bar before the concert are available.
www.eventtravel.com
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THE FACE OFF
FACE OFF:
SATAY VS YAKITORI
TWO ENTIRELY DIFFERENT CULTURES YET THEY SHARE
A SIMILAR COMFORT FOOD IN STICKS OF SUCCULENT
BARBEQUED MEATS TO BE SAVOURED OVER A COOL LONG
DRINK–THE SATAY AND JAPANESE YAKITORI.
Text and photos TAN JO HANN
SATAY
ORIGINS
Malaysia’s favourite comfort food- ‘Satay’ or
BBQ meat (chicken, beef, goat or mutton,
pork and animal entrails) on bamboo
skewers eaten with a spicy sweet crushed
peanut chili gravy. Satay is believed to have
its origins in Java and Sumatra Islands in
Indonesia. Some say its birthplace could
possibly be traced back to China, India or
the Middle East. But since then it has made
its way to the dining tables of Malaysia,
Singapore, Brunei and Thailand.
INGREDIENTS
The Satay meat is usually marinated with
sugar, sweet soy sauce and spices such as
coriander seeds and cumin. Some cooks
add a touch of tamarind juice to balance
the sweetness, but turmeric is almost
always the main ingredient to give Satay its
distinctive sweet spicy aroma and saffron
like colour to the roasted meats. The
peanut gravy consists of ground roasted
peanuts, coconut milk, soy sauce, tamarind,
galangal, chili peppers, sugar, garlic, scented
with different herbs and spices (such as
coriander seed, cumin and lemongrass).
VARIATIONS
Over the years, the original recipes of
chicken, beef, mutton and chicken entrails
have evolved to include an array of
ingredients such as rabbit meat, fish, prawn
and other seafood. But what has remained
unchanged is Satay’s signature smoky chargrilled
taste and caramelised aroma, and of
course the accompanying delicious crushed
peanut-chili gravy. A typical companion of
Satay is also the ketupat, or packs of slow
steamed rice dumplings wrapped in woven
palm leaves.
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THE FACE OFF
INGREDIENTS
Yakitori is usually grilled over charcoal fire
in Habachi stoves. Typical of the clean and
clear taste of Japanese cuisine, Yakitori
style cooking rarely requires marinating
the ingredients before grilling. However,
a dash of salt, pepper or a splash of tareh
Yakitori sauce on the sticks of meats before
grilling magically elevates its taste and
aroma to a different level. Tareh is made of
soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar.
POPULARITY
Satay is sold at many street corners or
coffee shops but also found in the menu
of high end restaurants offering local
cuisines. Many Malaysians and also
travellers are most probably familiar
with the highly popular Kajang Satay,
which got its namesake from Kajang
town in Malaysia’s Selangor state. But
food adventurers and Satay enthusiasts
wanting to deviate from the ‘beaten
track’ could also explore different
versions of this delicious dish. One
example is Stall No. 16, Medan Satay
which serves exceptionally juicy and
reasonably priced Satay (RM0.90 per
stick) in the Medan Selera local food
court in Section 14, Petaling Jaya City.
YAKITORI
ORIGINS
‘Yakitori’ is one of the most popular
comfort food for most Japanese after ramen
and o-sushi. The Yakitori style of cooking
was discovered more than 200 years ago in
Japan. Back then, there were poor farmers
who could only afford to eat leftover odd
chicken parts. They found that grilling
tough pieces of skewered chicken parts
over a low flame and long cooking time had
made it tender. Yaki literally means to grill
or barbeque, and tori means bird. Today, the
term Yakitori is also used in reference to
grilling other types of skewered meats such
as pork, beef and mutton, and even seafood
and vegetables.
VARIATIONS
More ‘adventurous’ versions of the typical
Yakitori skewers of meats and vegetables
include the gyutan (ox tongue), shiro
(chicken small intestines), reba (chicken
liver), nongkatsu (chicken cartilage) and
bonjiri (chicken butt). Some deviations
from the classical Yakitori menu include
shiitake mushrooms, ginko nuts, and
different combinations of rolled bacon
and cuts of meat or fish roe, shrimps,
and different types of vegetables. Most
importantly, they actually pair very well
with cold beer, Japanese sake or shochu.
POPULARITY
Yakitori is basically a go-to comfort food
which is available in many Japanese street
corners, most izakayas (Japanese pubs
or bistro) and even in high-end Japanese
restaurants. Yakitori is most popular
among families, foreign visitors and
especially ‘salarymen’ (Japanese office
workers) who enjoy eating these tasty
sticks of meat with glasses of cold frosty
beer and other alcoholic beverages. In
Kuala Lumpur, a popular Yakitori place
and watering hole is SUMIKA (in Japanese
literally meaning ‘charcoal house’), tucked
in a commercial area in SS15 Subang Jaya.
It offers a variety of tasty and medium to
high price Yakitori delights ranging from
RM6-15 per stick.
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 29

FYI
DISASTER PROOF
EVERYONE LIKES HAVING A NICE STORY TO TELL WHEN THEY
COME BACK FROM VACATION. HOWEVER, TRIPS AWAY FROM
HOME DON’T ALWAYS GO AS PLANNED WHICH CAN CAUSE
MEMORIES OF THAT HOLIDAY TO BE TAINTED. UNDER SUCH
CIRCUMSTANCES, THERE ARE MORE ISSUES TO BE WORRIED
ABOUT THAN JUST RUINED MEMORIES. DISASTERS AND
CRISIS OUT OF OUR CONTROL CAN OCCUR DURING TRAVELS
AND SUCH SITUATIONS NEED TO BE HANDLED WITH CARE.
Text YY CHEN
BE PREPARED:
PACK IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS!
In a waterproof bag, keep your travel documents (passport
and cash), credit cards, printout of information for the contact
of hotel, travel agent and embassy and your personal medical
report. Try to carry an extra phone battery or power bank
as well. During an emergency, this bag can be carried along
easily. Make a copy of these documents and keep it in another
luggage in case the document pack goes missing.
EARTHQUAKES AND TSUNAMI
If you’re travelling to places that are prone to common natural
disasters like the above, you must:
Research and find the safest travel period.
Ensure that your travel insurance covers air flight, hotel and
medical evacuation.
What to do in the event of a natural disaster:
Go to designated safe area in the hotel or go to a corner in your
room and huddle with hands or a pillow braced over your head.
If trapped, don’t light a match as there may be gas leakage or
trapped pressure. This may cause an explosion. Cover mouth
and nose from dust.
If building is not damaged, grab your document pack and walk
quickly to an open area and listen for warning alarms and
natural warnings too (a tsunami sounds like the roaring noise
of a fast train).
If you’re near a beach and suddenly notice people running away
from the beach, follow suit and head to any concrete buildings
and get to the second floor.
Arrange to leave the area as soon as possible.
Text your family or use social media to communicate that you
are alright.
30 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

F YI
POLITICAL UNREST
In some countries, especially the Middle
East, it is very possible for unrest to break
out unexpectedly. If this happens:
Do not get involved. Stay out of any
rally or riot areas.
Do not try to approach, as you may get
injured.
Contact your embassy as they may
have plans to evacuate their nationals.
Contact the airline to change your
ticket for the earliest flight out.
Before you leave for your vacation,
ensure your insurance covers the
expenses of emergency travels for
safety’s sake.
GETTING MUGGED & LOSING BELONGINGS
One of the biggest vacation spoilers of all time. If you
lose any important travel documents, do:
Go back to your hotel and fetch your duplicate set
of documents before making a police report.
Go to your embassy as they can help you with
cancelling credit cards and getting replacement
cards sent to you. Arrange for some cash and a
flight ticket home.
The embassy should be able to arrange for a
temporary travel document to get you home.
Contact your insurance company to clarify your
scope of coverage.
GETTING INJURED OR
INVOLVED IN ACCIDENT
Being abroad and in pain really sucks!
As soon as you have received medical
attention, do:
Call your embassy to seek help for
options of medical facilities.
Contact your family or designate
someone to make decisions on
your behalf.
Contact your insurance company
who may be able to advice on
specific medical facilities and
arrange for transfer back to your
home country.
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 31

TRAVEL
Road Less Travelled is a collaboration with AirAsiaGo.
Check out airasiago.com.my for flight & hotel deals!
ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
BACOLOD,
PHILIPPINES
LOCATED IN THE WESTERN VISAYAS OF
PHILIPPINES, BACOLOD IS A HIGHLY URBANISED
CITY IN NEGROS OCCIDENTAL PROVINCE AND IS
WIDELY LOVED FOR THEIR FOOD, SMILES AND
THE ANNUAL MASSKARA FESTIVAL.
Text JESSY WONG Photos ADOBE STOCK & AIRASIAGO
GOOD
to
KNOW
HOW TO GET THERE
There are no international flights to the province. Fly
with local airlines from main cities like Manila, Cebu,
Davao and Clark to Bacolod-Silay Airport. From the
airport, there are easy access of shuttle services,
jeepney and taxi to Bacolod city center.
WHAT TO DO
Attractions in Bacolod mainly carries historical
and cultural significance for the locals. Built in
19th century, San Sebastian Cathedral is a worthy
stop for one to appreciate its Baroque architecture
while The Ruins is an Italian mansion built as a
love remembrance for a departed wife. You may also
consider a nature retreat at Seven Falls of Mount
Kanlaon. Enter the trek through Mambukal Resort
and experience the waterfall trail.
Starting in early October, various events for the
MassKara Festival will be held across the city center.
MassKara Festival is considered as a major event in
Bacolod. The highlight of the ‘Mardi Gras’ festivity is
the street dance competitions set on 27-28 October
this year.
32 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM
WHERE TO STAY
Memory Lane by Esperanza Cafe is a 3-star bed
and breakfast stay located in town. It has airport
shuttles, cafe and 24/7 front desk for convenience.
The warm abode only has two guestrooms so do
make your reservations early via AirAsiaGo.
WHERE TO EAT
The city is one of the major food heaven in the
country so taste authentic Bacolod cuisines like
the chicken inasal (Filipino BBQ chicken) and
cansi (boiled bone in beef shanks). Manokan
Country is a local eatery famous for their chicken
inasal while Sharyn’s Cansi House serves the
best cansi in the area.
Ilonggo language
is spoken in
Bacolod but
English is widely
understood too.
MassKara
Festival is
introduced as a
‘festival of smile’
in 1980 during a
moment of crisis
in Philippines in
hopes of lifting
the spirit of their
people.

TRAVEL
2
1
3
THE GAME
PLAN IN
BUKIT JALIL
THIS SUBURBAN AREA OF KUALA LUMPUR HAS
LONG BEEN REGARDED UNDER THE RADAR;
BESIDES THE POPULARLY KNOWN PRESENCE
OF THE COUNTRY’S NATIONAL STADIUM, BUKIT
JALIL IS ALL SET TO STRIKE WITH WONDER.
Text JESSY WONG • Photos MALAYSIA STADIUM
CORPORATION, TECHNOLOGY PARK MALAYSIA & MONSPACE
Bukit Jalil and the National Sports
Complex are identically recognised for
one another. Ever since the national
stadium unveiled in 1998, Bukit Jalil has been
the nation’s hub of international sports and
entertainment for a decade.
The busy town today is unrecognised
for its past calling as a rubber plantation
estate in Klang Valley. The historical 16th
Commonwealth Games makes a sweeping
change to Bukit Jalil, as Malaysians were
selected to host the first Commonwealth
Games in Asia.
With 69 participating nations at that time,
apartments and a stadium are developed in
Bukit Jalil for the 1998 Commonwealth Games.
The surrounding residences built are intended
for officials and athletes of the games. But after
the event has ended, the apartments are sold to
the public and it became a suburban area.
GOOD
to
KNOW
A scene in the
box-office film,
Entrapment,
starring Sean
Connery and
Catherine Zeta-
Jones was filmed
in the Bukit Jalil
LRT station in
1998. However,
the signage of this
station is replaced
with Pudu LRT
station to fit into
their plotline in the
movie.
34 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

TRAVEL
Since then, Malaysians beam with glory of Bukit
Jalil National Stadium, being the largest in Southeast
Asia and is ranked 6th largest football stadium in
the world to date. Other than international sports
matches, the stadium has been a platform for music
concerts and worldwide premier of the Lee Chong
Wei movie.
A THRIVING COURSE
Bukit Jalil is also
home to Technology
Park Malaysia. The
science park is a
part of Multimedia
Super Corridor
(MSC) program
initiated in 1996 to
transform Malaysia
into a modern state
by 2020. The ground
is opened for visitors
but entrances to
the facilities are
restricted for staff
and registered
member only.
Another worth-noting is the Bukit Jalil
Recreational Park. Unlike any other park, this is
regarded as one of the top destination for wedding
photoshoots in Malaysia. Bukit Jalil Recreational Park
spans 80 acres of land and has a diverse landscaping
garden themes that attracts joggers, family recreation
and picnic in the evening.
Regular business travellers to Malaysia would
frequent Klang Valley’s hottest country club, Bukit
Jalil Golf and Country Resort. The elite country
club enlivens Bukit Jalil with its signature 18-hole
golf course in vast terrains and other activities
suited for an entire family from landscaped pools,
game room, driving range and sauna.
From there, Bukit Jalil is slowly developing
into a city. The upcoming opening of Pavilion
Bukit Jalil in the area is set to be the largest retail
outlet in south of Kuala Lumpur. A trip to Bukit
Jalil will no longer
entirely be for sports
“The busy
town today is
unrecognised for
its past calling
as a rubber
plantation estate.”
and recreation but
a high-end retail
experience. While
the elite mall is a
wonderful addition
to the area, across
the street, The Earth
sets the foundation
for nightlife and
commercialism.
Locals crowd at
various eateries like
Njoy Planet Cafe,
Monspize Cafe and
Fatmama Steamboat
day in day out.
One may get to Bukit Jalil via Light Rail
Transit (LRT) station in the Sri Petaling Line or
drive there easily via multiple direct expressway
links. With many more forthcoming developments
and accessibility in Bukit Jalil, it is foreseen that
the suburban area will become the second Kuala
Lumpur. A slow change of scenery to an urban
neighbourhood filled with skylines.
4
1 Technology Park Malaysia 2 The Earth @ Bukit Jalil 3 Bukit Jalil National Stadium 4 Diners enjoying hotpot at Fatmama Steamboat
WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM · 35

NEWS
ON THE RADAR
GET UP TO DATE ON THE LATEST HAPPENINGS ON
TRAVEL, HOTEL OPENINGS, FOOD OFFERS AND
TRENDING FASHION AROUND SOUTH EAST ASIA
MISS COSMOPOLITAN WORLD 2018
Malaysia’s homegrown international beauty
pageant is returning for their 4th installment this
year with a bigger and grander set-up, graced by a
string of accomplished participants worldwide. The
pageant will be promoting ‘Malaysia Tourism’ and
‘Malaysia Truly Asia’ to the world while supporting
Pink October in the event. The Gala Night of Miss
Cosmopolitan World will be held on 19 October at
One World Hotel, Bandar Utama.
www.misscosmopolitanworld.com
ICE MASK ON FLIGHT
Dry cabin air can make your skin dehydrated
and inactivity in long flights induces water
retention that leads to face puffiness.
Keep your skin hydrated at all time with
Replenishment Ice Mask to brighten your
complexion, reduces puffiness and smooth
the skin from the pressurised cabin air.
Exclusively available in vending machine
copies at level 3, gateway@klia2
BOUTIQUE HOTEL BLOOMS
WITH LOCAL DESIGNERS
The Canvas Hotel made its debut
with top-notch facilities and design in
the brilliance of comfort. Situated in
Klang, the hotel fused the touches of
local artists with painting collection
from Wong Chee Meng, Nokta the
local furniture brand, lights from
Stephanie Ng and hand-painted
patterns by Nala Designs in branding
itself in the royal city.
Jalan Batu Nilam 16, Bandar Bukit
Tinggi 2, Klang, Selangor
+603 3385 2355
DESERT, OASIS AND
ENDLESS ODYSSEY
Ningxia, the lesser-known gem, is put on
the pedestal recently through ‘Beautiful
China, Amazing Ningxia’ tourism event
in Kuala Lumpur. Located in northwest
China, Ningxia has a long history and
culture beyond the Great Wall with
breathtaking scenic landscapes of
mountains, desert, river and values locally
made Chinese wolfberry and fine wines.
www.nxtour.com.cn
36 · WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM