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Tropicana Nov-Dec 2020 #133 The Festive Issue

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Vol. <strong>#133</strong> <strong>Nov</strong>ember / <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Festive</strong> <strong>Issue</strong><br />

Life Is<br />

Beautiful<br />

Beauty entrepreneur<br />

Ken Lim always<br />

looks out for<br />

the silver lining<br />

Show Goes On In <strong>Festive</strong> Fashion Dream Home<br />

<strong>The</strong> Actors Studio continues to<br />

nurture performing arts in Malaysia<br />

Dress up to celebrate the year-end<br />

and welcome a new year<br />

Don’t let the pandemic stop you<br />

from investing in properties


EDITOR’S NOTE<br />

A Better<br />

Tomorrow<br />

Wow, what a year it’s been.<br />

If nothing else, <strong>2020</strong><br />

will certainly go down in<br />

history books as the most<br />

“memorable” - marked by<br />

that unforgettable pandemic<br />

known as COVID-19 and political instability in Malaysia<br />

and elsewhere, from Thailand to the United States.<br />

But despite all of that, we remain optimistic that<br />

brighter times are ahead. And we want to end the year<br />

on a positive note. Hence, we bring to you <strong>The</strong> <strong>Festive</strong><br />

<strong>Issue</strong> this month. Throughout these pages, we hope to<br />

inspire you to celebrate the good things in life, to have<br />

hope for a better future.<br />

Desmond Tutu once said: “Hope is being able to<br />

see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” And we<br />

could not agree more. In our Health & Wellness section,<br />

we talk to renowned wellness personality Jojo Struys who<br />

urges us to stay positive and embrace the challenges in<br />

these uncertain times.<br />

In <strong>The</strong> Art section, we pay tribute to the<br />

people behind <strong>The</strong> Actors Studio. Founders Dato’<br />

Dr Faridah Merican and Joe Hasham have time and<br />

again demonstrated their commitment to contribute<br />

to the performing arts sector in Malaysia, despite the<br />

pandemic almost knocking the wind out of their sails.<br />

We also highlight Penang-based artist Tiffany<br />

Choong who strives to bring joy and shine light on<br />

important topics through her artwork. Our cover<br />

subject Ken Lim - the founder and namesake of Kens<br />

Apothecary - opens up about finding contentment<br />

amidst life’s challenges.<br />

In our fashion pages, we shot a spread (at Edelweiss<br />

SOFO & Serviced Residences in <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens)<br />

that is all about dressing up to celebrate, even if it’s for<br />

an intimate shindig at home. And if you’re looking for<br />

a Christmas present to cheer up a loved one, we have<br />

compiled a list of gift ideas for your perusal.<br />

So, yes, we are hopeful about the year ahead, of it<br />

being a better tomorrow. Let’s work together to make<br />

2021 a better year, one that will be remembered for all<br />

the right reasons.<br />

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Take care,<br />

stay safe and see you next time!<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Magazine Editorial Team<br />

Photo: Brigitte Tohm/ Pexels<br />

1 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


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TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

2


*Terms & conditions apply. Subject to change without prior notice


VOLUME<br />

<strong>#133</strong><br />

ON THE COVER<br />

14 Boss of Beauty<br />

<strong>The</strong> Diary<br />

6 Light Up This <strong>Festive</strong> Season<br />

<strong>The</strong> Scene<br />

8 Happenings About Town<br />

Culture<br />

10 Books, Movies and Music<br />

<strong>The</strong> Home<br />

22 Modern Talking<br />

<strong>The</strong> Art<br />

26 Come What May<br />

30 Where Heart & Art Meets<br />

Property News<br />

40 <strong>Tropicana</strong> and Marriott International<br />

Launch Courtyard By Marriott Penang<br />

42 <strong>Tropicana</strong> Launches Edelweiss<br />

SOFO & Serviced Residences<br />

43 <strong>Tropicana</strong> Bags Multiple Awards At<br />

<strong>The</strong> Property Guru Asia Property<br />

Awards (Malaysia)<br />

Mulan Movie For <strong>Tropicana</strong> Staff<br />

Property<br />

Investment<br />

46 Buying Your Dream Home<br />

<strong>The</strong> Game Changer<br />

90 A Perfect Fit<br />

<strong>The</strong> Dishes<br />

100 One Of A Kind<br />

104 Feast For All<br />

106 Up Close & Personal<br />

<strong>The</strong> Experience<br />

86 Cinema Of Choice<br />

<strong>The</strong> Drive<br />

110 A Symbol Of Innovation<br />

<strong>The</strong> Vacation<br />

114 Of <strong>The</strong> Days Gone By<br />

118 Amazing Adventures Await<br />

<strong>The</strong> Gadget<br />

34 Edge of Tomorrow<br />

<strong>The</strong> Swing<br />

52 Great On <strong>The</strong> Green<br />

54 Allure Of Ancient Beauty<br />

<strong>The</strong> Time<br />

58 Wonders On <strong>The</strong> Wrist<br />

<strong>The</strong> Look<br />

60 In <strong>The</strong> Mood For Revelry<br />

72 Embrace <strong>The</strong> New<br />

74 Dressed To Chill<br />

76 Time To Shine<br />

<strong>The</strong> Beauty<br />

78 Towards A Better You<br />

80 Packaged For <strong>The</strong> Holidays<br />

82 On A Sensorial Journey<br />

84 Finding <strong>The</strong> Perfect Present<br />

Health And<br />

Wellness<br />

98 Ways To improve Our Wellbeing<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

4


THE DIARY<br />

Light Up This <strong>Festive</strong> Season<br />

As we welcome a brand new year, here’s a lustrous line-up<br />

of celebrations from all over the world.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Christmas Set Menu At W Kuala Lumpur<br />

1 – 31 <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong>/ 12pm – 10.30pm<br />

Flock, W Kuala Lumpur<br />

wkualalumpur.com<br />

For the whole of <strong>Dec</strong>ember, guests will be able to indulge in a specially curated festive set menu at Flock, W Kuala Lumpur’s modern Australian,<br />

all-day-dining venue. Featuring fresh produce from local artisans, this menu will definitely appeal to your tastebuds! Christmas Set meals start<br />

from RM188 nett, with a minimum of 50 pax. Menu is available for lunch or dinner Mondays to Fridays. On 24 <strong>Dec</strong>ember, there will be RETOX<br />

At Dusk: Xmas Eve Edition, where one can ring in the Yuletide festivities with a spread that will leave you spoilt for choice. On 25 <strong>Dec</strong>ember,<br />

there’s RETOX Brunch: Xmas Edition where a sumptuous buffet awaits including Whole Roasted Turkey with Apricot & Sage Stuffing, Foie<br />

Gras Chawan Mushi and Red Wine Braised Wagyu Beef Cheek.<br />

Räbechilbi Turnip Festival<br />

12 <strong>Nov</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

Richterswil, Switzerland<br />

vvrs.ch<br />

In <strong>Nov</strong>ember, many towns in Switzerland celebrate Räbechilbi, which literally means<br />

“turnip party”. In short, people carve designs into turnips, light them up like a lantern<br />

and have a parade. An annual soiree is thrown by Richterswil, a town on the shores of<br />

Lake Zürich in honour of this root vegetable. <strong>The</strong> one-day festival features outdoor<br />

concerts and a small market peddling local specialties, while the highlight is a procession<br />

of floats adorned with 26 tonnes of turnips carved into every imaginable shape, from<br />

flowers to tigers and intricate, larger-than-life cuckoo clocks.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

6


Montreal Bach Festival<br />

19 <strong>Nov</strong>ember – 6 <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

Montreal, Canada<br />

festivalbachmontreal.com<br />

This is a premiere destination for the timeless musical genius of<br />

Johann Sebastian Bach and the cultural legacy that he has inspired.<br />

Through a series of concerts and educational programs, the Montreal<br />

Bach Festival showcases elite musicians to the world and brings world<br />

class performers to Quebec. It contributes significantly to Montreal’s<br />

international reputation as a cultural metropolis, attracting both<br />

international and local audiences.<br />

BOXED IN (One Foot At A Time)<br />

11 <strong>Nov</strong>ember - 12 <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong>/ 12pm – 7pm<br />

Hin Bus Depot, Jalan Gurdwara, Penang<br />

www.hinbusdepot.com<br />

<strong>The</strong> phrase “thinking outside the box” is to look further and to try<br />

not think of the obvious things. Using this ideology, the exhibition<br />

BOXED IN (one foot at a time) was born. Curated by Ivan Gabriel,<br />

the group exhibition showcases Penang-based visual artists from<br />

various different backgrounds and art practices. <strong>The</strong>y were given two<br />

wooden boxes, each measuring 12 inches by 12 inches to let their<br />

creative imaginations run wild. <strong>The</strong> only catch was for them to think<br />

outside the box whilst having the artworks be within the box itself,<br />

hence the title. <strong>The</strong> exhibition promises to be filled with excitement<br />

and mystery, showcasing how the artists have executed their projects.<br />

Participating artists include Jonathan Yun, Maizul Affendy, Mandy<br />

Maung, Nasir Nadzir and Tiffany Choong.<br />

Pirates Week Festival<br />

5 - 15 <strong>Nov</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

George Town, Cayman Islands<br />

piratesweekfestival.com<br />

Perhaps no other Caribbean nation celebrates its cultural heritage<br />

and pirate legends quite like the Cayman Islands, which erupts<br />

into a festival of pageantry and spectacle during its annual Pirates<br />

Week. Spectators will enjoy a series of costume contests, party nights,<br />

heritage and cultural competitions, music and much more, spreading<br />

across three islands. <strong>The</strong>re’s even a mock pirate invasion featuring<br />

three full-scale pirate sailing ships.<br />

Loy Krathong Lantern Festival<br />

14-16 <strong>Nov</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

Chiang Mai, Thailand<br />

This is one of the world’s most ethereal events, which sees thousands<br />

gather to symbolically release their regrets, fears and negativity in<br />

the form of glowing lanterns and peaceful floats made of banana<br />

leaves. <strong>The</strong> reverent tone of the lantern release is enhanced by<br />

musical performances, lantern-making contests, beauty pageants,<br />

fireworks display and of course, plenty of scrumptious Thai food.<br />

7 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE SCENE<br />

Happenings About Town<br />

<strong>The</strong> hottest events to have set society abuzz.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Turkey Debuts A Symphony Orchestra Hall<br />

<strong>The</strong> pandemic may have delayed travelling plans for many. Those eager to explore the marvels and culture of Turkey, rest assured<br />

the country is waiting with open arms to welcome Malaysians, once crossing international borders is possible again. This time, a<br />

new tourist attraction can be added to the list of “must-visits” - <strong>The</strong> Presidential Symphony Orchestra Hall. <strong>The</strong> much-anticipated<br />

launch of this illustrious building kicked off with a grand gala event on 29 and 30 October <strong>2020</strong>, coinciding with Turkey’s Republic<br />

Day. Located in cosmopolitan capital Ankara, the state-of-the-art concert hall aims to become a new cultural hub for lovers of<br />

music and fine arts. It will welcome world-renowned soprano, Angela Gheorghiu and well-known piano duo, twin sisters Güher<br />

and Süher Pekinel. For more details, visit http://goturkey.com/.<br />

Feith In Footwear<br />

Multi-label shoe boutique Feith continues to thrill fans with new<br />

designs. It recently hosted an intimate event “Summer Delight”<br />

to introduce the new Feith collection. Opened in Fahrenheit 88<br />

Kuala Lumpur in <strong>Dec</strong>ember last year, the store is a purveyor of chic<br />

and elegant footwear. <strong>The</strong> new collection encapsulates a luxurious<br />

summer feel, featuring fresh new colours made with exquisite fabrics<br />

and leathers. All of the shoes are handmade in Spain. Feith also<br />

launched a new handbag range, all of which were handmade in<br />

Italy. Present at the event were the store founders Soo Shea Pin and<br />

Teh Wenfei, her daughter.<br />

Pink Buddies’ Day Out<br />

Every October, caring public members don pink ribbons in support<br />

of Breast Cancer Awareness. On 3 October <strong>2020</strong>, Pink Buddies’ Day<br />

Out was held at the luxuriously trendy W Kuala Lumpur. This was<br />

to celebrate the survivors and their buddies who were there by their<br />

side. MODA (Malaysian Official Designers Association) initiated<br />

this project together with Estée Lauder Companies Malaysia and<br />

W Kuala Lumpur. Sixteen pairs with the most touching stories were<br />

invited to W Kuala Lumpur for a day of pampering and celebration.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y were also introduced to Malaysian designers they were paired<br />

with for clothes fitting. All dressed-up, the buddies were then invited<br />

to a sumptuous high-tea at Woobar and introduced to members of<br />

the media.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

8


Biggest roadshow for<br />

Xiaomi in Malaysia<br />

Xiaomi recently launched new smartphones Mi 10T<br />

Pro and Mi 10T via its biggest roadshow in Malaysia.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y were unveiled by K. M. Leong, Regional Head<br />

of Southeast Asia, Xiaomi. <strong>The</strong> flagship Mi 10T Pro<br />

takes creating and exploring to the next level, with<br />

unmatched specs in its class. Meanwhile, Mi 10T<br />

delivers top-notch experiences for everyone from<br />

working professionals to streaming enthusiasts and<br />

mobile gamers. Alongside the smartphones, Xiaomi’s<br />

very first smart watch, Mi Watch, Mi True Wireless<br />

Earphones 2 Basic, Mi Smart Electric Toothbrush<br />

T500, Mi Air Purifier Pro and Mi Robot Vacuum-<br />

Mop were also introduced into the Malaysian market.<br />

Crossing Into <strong>The</strong> Future<br />

It was a momentous occasion for Grand Seiko as the horology<br />

brand paid tribute to its diamond jubilee this year with the<br />

unveiling of new timepieces as well as a new quartz movement<br />

at a recent event in Mid Valley Megamall. SEIKO’s esteemed<br />

diver series also celebrated its 55 th anniversary since its creation<br />

in Japan. Speaking at the event, Thong Sia Sdn Bhd General<br />

Manager Mr. Michael Lim said: “As the sole distributor of Grand<br />

Seiko and SEIKO timepieces in Malaysia, we are humbled by the<br />

opportunity to introduce the brands’ newest collections to our loyal<br />

fan base in the country.” He added that they would continue to<br />

introduce more exclusive timepiece collections in the future. <strong>The</strong><br />

event was made more exciting by the appearance of popular actor<br />

Datuk Aaron Aziz.<br />

Preview of Penfolds<br />

<strong>2020</strong> Collection<br />

Australia’s most revered winery Penfolds recently<br />

previewed its <strong>2020</strong> Collection. To experience the new<br />

collection including the special Bin 95 Grange and a<br />

beautifully aged Bin 389, an exclusive wine-pairing<br />

dinner was held at Flock in W Kuala Lumpur. <strong>The</strong><br />

Penfolds Collection <strong>2020</strong> is a family of fine wines<br />

spanning five impressive white and red wine Australian<br />

vintages. Led by the 66th consecutive release of Grange,<br />

the <strong>2020</strong> Collection is a testament to the enduring house<br />

style and winemaking philosophy passed down through<br />

generations of Penfolds winemakers. In its entirety, this<br />

new release displays red wines of distinctive refinement<br />

and cellaring potential, and white wines which deliver<br />

on complexity and flavour.<br />

9 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


CULTURE | MOVIES<br />

<strong>The</strong> Wait Is Over<br />

<strong>Dec</strong>ember seems to be a packed month for Hollywood blockbusters as movies<br />

delayed by the coronavirus pandemic finally hit the screen.<br />

Wonder Woman 1984<br />

25 <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

Our fingers are crossed that this oft-delayed sequel to 2017’s Wonder Woman will finally lasso<br />

her way to the big screen. As of press time, director Patty Jenkins is “hopeful” but “not<br />

confident” the Christmas Day release date will stick. It stars Gal Gadot as Diana Prince/<br />

Wonder Woman, alongside Chris Pine, Kristen Wiig, Pedro Pascal and Connie Nielsen. In<br />

the original, Diana was the <strong>The</strong>mysciran Amazon out of place in man’s world. In 1984, it’s<br />

now a time-displaced Steve finding his place in the retro world of glam rock, high-waisted<br />

jeans, and massive hair. Set during the Cold War, the film will also see Diana facing off<br />

against villains Maxwell Lord and Cheetah.<br />

Free Guy<br />

11 <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

Based on its trailer, this American<br />

sci-fi action comedy looks fun. And<br />

hey, anything starring Mr Deadpool<br />

Ryan Reynolds is worth checking<br />

out. Directed by Shawn Levy,<br />

Free Guy is about a video game<br />

character trying to become the<br />

hero of his particular game. Guy is<br />

a non-player character working as a<br />

bank teller in video game Free City.<br />

Thanks to a programme developed<br />

by a programmers Milly and Keys, Guy becomes aware of his world<br />

being a video game. He then races against time to save the game<br />

before the developers can shut it down.<br />

Greenland<br />

18 <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

As if the current pandemic isn’t<br />

a stark enough reminder that<br />

our planet is in a fragile state,<br />

here comes this disaster movie.<br />

Gerald Butler stars as John<br />

Garrity who goes against all<br />

odds to save his family. Together<br />

with his estranged wife and their<br />

young son, they embark on a<br />

perilous journey to find sanctuary<br />

as a comet hurtles toward<br />

Earth. Amid terrifying accounts<br />

of cities getting levelled, the trio experience the best and worst<br />

in humanity. As the countdown to the global apocalypse<br />

approaches zero, their incredible trek culminates in a desperate and<br />

last-minute flight to a possible safe haven. Sounds like a comforting<br />

watch … not.<br />

Monster Hunter<br />

30 <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

After the success of their Resident Evil<br />

films, model-turned-action heroine Milla<br />

Jovovich once again teams up with her<br />

director husband Paul W.S. Anderson.<br />

Will Monster Hunter be their next big<br />

franchise? It is loosely based on the<br />

video game series of the same name by<br />

Capcom. <strong>The</strong> movie also stars Tony Jaa,<br />

Josh Helman, Diego Boneta and Ron Perlman. A portal transports Lt.<br />

Artemis and an elite unit of soldiers to a strange world where powerful<br />

monsters rule with deadly ferocity. Faced with relentless danger, the<br />

team encounters a mysterious hunter who may be their only hope to<br />

find a way home. Expect lots of special effects and spectacular clashes<br />

between humans and gigantic monsters. Who will triumph? Our<br />

money’s on Milla, every time.<br />

Death On <strong>The</strong> Nile<br />

18 <strong>Dec</strong>ember <strong>2020</strong><br />

A follow-up to 2017’s Murder On <strong>The</strong> Orient<br />

Express, this mystery thriller based on<br />

the book of the same name by Agatha<br />

Christie is directed by Kenneth Branagh.<br />

He also plays renowned Belgian detective<br />

Hercule Poirot alongside a star-studded<br />

cast featuring Annette Bening, Russell<br />

Brand, Arnie Hammer, Letitia Wright<br />

and Gal Gadot (yay!). <strong>The</strong> peace and<br />

tranquillity that was temporarily existent on the S.S Karnak Cruise<br />

Ship is destroyed after one of the passengers is found murdered. Poirot<br />

is entrusted with the important task of identifying which one of the<br />

passengers is the killer before they strike again. Needless to say, no<br />

one can enjoy their cruise even if they are sailing alongside Wonder<br />

Woman herself.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

10


CULTURE | BOOK<br />

Books To Make You Happy<br />

This past year may not have inspired much mirth but fret not,<br />

these uplifting reads are sure to put a smile on your face.<br />

Five Steps To Happy<br />

Ella Dove<br />

When struggling actress Heidi has a life-changing accident at the age of 32, her world falls apart. Stuck in hospital<br />

and unable to walk, her only companion is Maud, the elderly lady in the bed next to hers. Heidi misses her flatmate,<br />

her life, her freedom - surely 32 is too young to be an amputee? But when Maud’s aloof but attractive grandson Jack<br />

pays a visit to the ward, Heidi realises that her life isn’t over just because it’s different. <strong>The</strong>re’s a lot she still wants to<br />

tick off her bucket list. With Jack at her side, will Heidi take the first step back to happiness? Based on the title, the<br />

answer is a resounding yes. This uplifting novel is actually based on the author’s own life.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Authenticity<br />

Project<br />

Clare Pooley<br />

Eccentric and lonely artist Julian Jessop<br />

believes that most people aren’t really<br />

honest with each other. So he writes - in<br />

a plain, green journal - the truth about<br />

his own life and leaves it in his local<br />

café. It’s run by Monica, who furtively<br />

adds her own entry and leaves the book<br />

in the wine bar across the street. Before<br />

long, others who find the green notebook add the truths about their<br />

own deepest selves. Its cast of characters - including Hazard, the<br />

charming addict who makes a vow to get sober; Alice, the fabulous<br />

mummy Instagrammer whose real life is a lot less perfect than it looks<br />

online; and their other new friends - is by turns quirky and funny,<br />

heartbreakingly sad and painfully true-to-life.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Unlikely<br />

Pilgrimage Of<br />

Harold Fry<br />

Rachel Joyce<br />

Meet Harold Fry, recently retired. He lives<br />

in a small English village with his wife,<br />

Maureen, who seems irritated by almost<br />

everything he does. One morning, a letter<br />

arrives, addressed to Harold in a shaky<br />

scrawl, from a woman he hasn’t heard<br />

from in 20 years. Queenie Hennessy is in<br />

hospice and is writing to say goodbye. A chance encounter convinces<br />

Harold that he must deliver his message to Queenie in person.<br />

Determined to walk 600 miles to the hospice, Harold believes that as<br />

long as he walks, Queenie will live. A novel of humour and profound<br />

insight into the feelings we all bury deep within our hearts; this book<br />

introduces Rachel Joyce as an irresistible storyteller.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Keeper Of<br />

Lost Things<br />

Ruth Hogan<br />

Forty years ago, Anthony Peardew<br />

carelessly lost a keepsake from his<br />

beloved fiancée, <strong>The</strong>rese. That very<br />

same day, she died unexpectedly.<br />

Broken-hearted, Anthony sought<br />

consolation in rescuing lost objects<br />

- the things others have dropped,<br />

misplaced, or accidently left behind -<br />

and writing stories about them. Now,<br />

in the twilight of his life, Anthony bequeaths his secret life’s mission<br />

to his unsuspecting assistant, Laura, leaving her his house and<br />

all its lost treasures, including an irritable ghost. A charming,<br />

clever, and quietly moving novel of endless possibilities and<br />

joyful discoveries.<br />

One Thousand<br />

Stars And You<br />

Isabelle Broom<br />

Alice is settling down. It might not be the<br />

adventurous life she once imagined, but<br />

more than anything she wants to make<br />

everyone happy - her steady boyfriend,<br />

her over-protective mother - even if<br />

it means a little part of her will always<br />

feel stifled. Meanwhile, Max is shaking<br />

things up. After a devastating injury, he<br />

is determined to prove himself, to escape his smothering family and<br />

go on an adventure. A trip to Sri Lanka is Alice’s last chance to throw<br />

herself into the chaos and colour of a place thousands of miles from<br />

home. It’s also the moment she meets Max. Alice doesn’t know it yet,<br />

but her whole life is about to change. Be prepared to swoon as this book<br />

will pick you up and sweep you into its pages. Passport not required.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

11


CULTURE | MUSIC<br />

Music To Get You Merry<br />

Whether you’re decorating the Christmas tree or throwing an intimate shindig at home,<br />

a soundtrack with the best festive songs is essential to set the mood.<br />

It’s Beginning to Look<br />

a Lot Like Christmas<br />

Michael Bublé<br />

All I Want For Christmas<br />

Is You<br />

Mariah Carey<br />

Twenty-six years after its release, Carey’s ultimate<br />

festive classic is still the go-to bop to get any soiree<br />

started. It consistently lands in the top spot on the<br />

Billboard Holiday 100. Carey co-wrote and coproduced<br />

it for her first holiday album Merry Xmas,<br />

released in 1994. With an estimated sale of over 16<br />

million copies, it remains the best-selling Christmas<br />

single by a female artist and one of the best-selling<br />

singles of all time. An up-tempo and infectious love<br />

song that includes bell chimes, heavy back-up vocals<br />

and synthesizers, resistance to this is futile.<br />

Bublé’s cover of It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like<br />

Christmas became an instant classic, and so<br />

did the rest of his holiday album. In 2011<br />

- the year it was released - Christmas spent<br />

five weeks in the No. 1 spot on the Billboard<br />

200 album sales chart. It’s hard to fathom<br />

that Bublé is not a crooner from the 50s. He<br />

puts his own slant on any song, making this<br />

traditional Yuletide classic worth having in your playlist. With his smooth, laidback<br />

vocals, he makes you feel like you’re right in front of an imaginary fireplace with your<br />

friends and family.<br />

Santa Tell Me<br />

Ariana Grande<br />

Is it possible for a song to be an instant classic?<br />

In 2014, Ariana Grande released this holiday<br />

single, and it immediately became one of<br />

her biggest hits. Most Christmas songs are<br />

forgotten by the new year but not this. Santa Tell<br />

Me cleverly works Grande’s natural evanescence<br />

to its advantage, casting the former child star<br />

as a teenager pleading with Santa for a<br />

boyfriend who won’t disappear after she “gives it all away”. <strong>The</strong>re’s nothing kitsch<br />

about the smart beat or Grande’s breathy yet powerful vocals, poised between girlishness<br />

and adulthood.<br />

Last Christmas<br />

Carly Rae Jepsen<br />

One of the biggest holiday<br />

hits, Last Christmas was written<br />

by George Michael and<br />

released way back in 1986.<br />

Although not technically a<br />

Christmas song as it tells of<br />

a broken-hearted man who’s<br />

trying to forget an ex-lover,<br />

it is still only usually heard during the year-end festivities. Unlike<br />

many of the earlier covers, Jepsen keeps things simple in her version.<br />

It is still purely a pop song, here to soothe anyone with a bad<br />

case of holiday heartache. Turn it up for chill 80s vibes and<br />

a reminder that there’s way more to the season than finding<br />

romance.<br />

Santa’s<br />

Coming for Us<br />

Sia<br />

From Sia’s Everyday Is<br />

Christmas album, this is a<br />

modern, upbeat take on the<br />

classic Santa Claus Is Coming to<br />

Town. Sia’s debut single from<br />

this album is breaking away<br />

from our expectations of<br />

holiday albums. It is an original song that isn’t backed by constant<br />

jingling bells and barely samples from within the genre. What it does<br />

offer is an extremely catchy chorus, and an updated list of all the<br />

things that we look forward to in the approaching festivities. By the<br />

end, it cements its acceptance into the song genre, whilst maintaining<br />

its modern vibe.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

12


COVER STORY<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

14


of<br />

Boss<br />

Beauty<br />

<strong>The</strong> founder and namesake of Kens Apothecary opens up about<br />

finding contentment amidst life’s challenges.<br />

Text: William K.C. Kee<br />

Art direction: Joanne Lim<br />

Creative direction: Geetha Muniandy<br />

Photographer: Brian Fang @ M8 Studio<br />

Makeup: Cindy Hor<br />

Apparel: Thom Browne @ Club 21, Lord’s Tailor<br />

15 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


COVER STORY<br />

Two decades on, Kens Apothecary<br />

remains a trusted name in the beauty<br />

retail landscape. <strong>The</strong> founder Ken<br />

Lim introduced niche skincare brands<br />

at a time when the retail scene was<br />

mass market-driven. Today, brands<br />

such as Diptyque and Creed are household names and<br />

the word “apothecary” is a familiar one in our lexicon.<br />

Presently, there are five Kens Apothecary stores located<br />

in premier shopping malls in the Klang Valley.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Early Years<br />

Before Lim took the plunge into the beauty business,<br />

he was a financial controller. <strong>The</strong> very first brand he<br />

brought into Malaysia was Australian cult brand<br />

Aesop. “When I first met a department store regarding<br />

Aesop 20 years ago, they wanted to put the brand<br />

in the homeware section instead of beauty. A lot of<br />

buyers then didn’t understand about niche concept,”<br />

recalls Lim. “Now these brands have become trendy and<br />

appeal to the young market and people in the know.”<br />

If you were to ask what he’d have done differently<br />

if he could go back in time, Lim’s reply might surprise<br />

you. “Maybe I wouldn’t have started Kens Apothecary<br />

so early, it was too progressive and ahead of its time,”<br />

says the Penang-born Lim.<br />

He concedes, however, that being forward thinking<br />

has served him well. “If I didn’t start it then, I wouldn’t<br />

be in this position now. Back then, I had to educate<br />

people on what apothecary meant,” muses Lim with a<br />

smile. “Now when people in Malaysia hear ‘apothecary’,<br />

they’d relate it back to our branding, so in a way I have<br />

taken ownership of that word.”<br />

Inspired by multi brand beauty stores Joyce Beauty,<br />

Space NK and Mecca, Kens Apothecary is nevertheless<br />

a game changer in its own right. “When I named the<br />

shop Kens Apothecary, people were curious about the<br />

person behind the name. At that time, it was unheard of<br />

for a guy to be in the beauty business, so it helped people<br />

to remember me.”<br />

“<strong>The</strong>n and now, people called us the Joyce Beauty<br />

or Space NK of Malaysia. Well, we’re not there yet.<br />

Space NK, for instance, has 50 to 100 brands, and we<br />

have 15 to 20 brands, and we’re still bringing in more<br />

brands.”<br />

Sometimes, it’s all about taking risks. “When I first<br />

brought in Marvis, there was scepticism from my team<br />

and now it’s selling like hot cakes. In that way, I was able<br />

to foresee the trend of designer toothpaste,” explains<br />

Lim. He is especially proud of his newest acquisition,<br />

luxury fragrance Frederic Malle.<br />

Lim counts himself lucky that he is able to do<br />

what he loves. “After 20 years, we have gained our<br />

customers’ trust as they see that we still uphold the<br />

same beliefs and philosophy. Now self-care is more<br />

relevant than ever; one has to live well and take care of<br />

yourself.”<br />

That’s What Friends Are For<br />

In the early years, business was a struggle. Fortunately,<br />

serendipity – or in Lim’s case, an invaluable friend<br />

– intervened. <strong>The</strong> late fashion designer Sonny San<br />

approached Lim about a collaboration. “Sonny wanted<br />

a beauty bar inside his boutique, and that’s how the<br />

business started to grow for me. He extended a helping<br />

hand when I needed it the most.”<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

16


“It’s important to<br />

build bridges and<br />

remember the good<br />

that people have<br />

done for you. That’s<br />

what I’ve learnt,<br />

and it is one of<br />

the key factors<br />

to success.”<br />

17 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


COVER STORY<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

18


“I am successful as I am<br />

happy with what I’ve achieved.<br />

Yes, retail can be stressful and<br />

business-wise, there’s always<br />

room for improvement but when<br />

it comes to my personal life,<br />

I am very happy.”<br />

To this day, Lim keeps San’s work philosophy in<br />

mind. “Sonny has been in the industry for so long and<br />

people really liked him. He was a businessman who’s not<br />

after fast money, making an effort to establish rapport<br />

with the people he met. It’s important to build bridges<br />

and remember the good that people have done for you.<br />

That’s what I’ve learnt, and it is one of the key factors<br />

to success.”<br />

That is why he found the Movement Control Order<br />

(MCO) due to COVID-19 particularly challenging.<br />

“What I missed most during MCO was hanging out<br />

with my best friends. As I grow older, I have a smaller<br />

pool of friends, these are the people who matter, whom I<br />

truly missed during lockdown.”<br />

His Proudest Accomplishment<br />

Asked to name an accomplishment he’s most proud of,<br />

Lim ponders for a while. “When I am interviewed<br />

by the media on being a success, I clarify that I don’t<br />

think I am super successful. To me, the definition of an<br />

accomplished person is someone who has truly made a<br />

difference in the world.”<br />

“For me, I am successful as I am happy with what<br />

I’ve achieved. Yes, retail can be stressful and businesswise,<br />

there’s always room for improvement but when it<br />

comes to my personal life, I am very happy.”<br />

Best of all, Lim adds, after all those years since<br />

he ventured into the beauty biz, he’s still considered<br />

relevant to the market. “I think that in itself is quite an<br />

accomplishment. One of my dear friends Catherine Lai<br />

always tells me; you have to be relevant in the market so<br />

that people want to know you or your brand.”<br />

Recognising that trends are always changing, Lim<br />

says it’s all about staying a step ahead, and forecast what’s<br />

coming. “Initially, I only brought in brands I wanted<br />

to use. Now that I am 49, I use anti-ageing products.<br />

19 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


COVER STORY<br />

But I make it a point to mix with younger people, look<br />

at their Instagram and see what they like. That’s why we<br />

bring in brands that are relevant to the younger people.”<br />

Timing, according to Lim, is also very important.<br />

“You cannot push yourself if the time is not right;<br />

there is no point in opening 20 stores if you have<br />

to close 10. You can do it progressively; go with<br />

the flow and be more patient. I have learnt that in this<br />

business.”<br />

Along his journey, Lim has been through his<br />

share of ups and downs. But he’s thrived despite the<br />

obstacles, and is optimistic about the future. “In retail,<br />

we are always changing up our concept. Do not be<br />

reluctant to change. I still want to improve myself, always.<br />

I have lost a few brands (Aesop, Laura Mercier,<br />

Peter Thomas Roth) along the way. But the one brand<br />

that I built and will own forever is Kens Apothecary, and<br />

no one can take that away from me.”<br />

Where <strong>The</strong> Heart Is<br />

Away from work, Lim indulges in collecting pieces from<br />

famed Italian artist Piero Fornasetti. “I am such a big fan,<br />

and am constantly mesmerised by his work,” enthuses<br />

Lim, who has dedicated a wall in his home to treasured<br />

plates by Fornasetti.<br />

Speaking of home, Lim has stayed in <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Indah for the past decade – and loves the idyllic lifestyle<br />

the neighbourhood offers. “It is such a self-sufficient<br />

neighbourhood. I love staying home; I rarely leave the<br />

house unless it’s necessary.” His house is also conveniently<br />

located opposite his mother’s.<br />

Lim’s favourite part of his home is the dining and<br />

living area. “When I bought this house, I broke down a<br />

wall so it seems more spacious and there is the continuity<br />

of chi throughout. I treasure the evenings where my<br />

family and I get together for dinner and talk at the dining<br />

table. It is the perfect place to bond.”<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

20


THE HOME<br />

Modern<br />

Talking<br />

Although the Milan Furniture Fair was cancelled this year, furniture design<br />

brands launched their new collections to the delight of designophiles.<br />

Here are eight must-haves.<br />

Text by Jennifer Choo<br />

Photos courtesy of the respective brands<br />

Sofa So Good<br />

<strong>The</strong> launch of a Flexform sofa is always an<br />

event and the Gregory sofa by renowned<br />

designer Antonio Citterio does not<br />

disappoint. Designed with perfect elegant<br />

proportions, sophisticated construction<br />

details like Flexform’s signature leather<br />

weaving and grosgrain piping make the<br />

most of the company’s expertise and are<br />

a nod to its genetic legacy. For a truly<br />

individual piece, a customised look can<br />

be achieved by pairing different finishes<br />

in the metal structure, upholstery and<br />

leather weaving.<br />

Available at Flexform Malaysia<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

22


Cart Blanche<br />

Thrilla in Manila<br />

Known for his poetic compositions and refined shapes, German<br />

designer Sebastian Herkner enriches Parachilna’s concisely<br />

curated lighting collection with the Manila pendant lamps.<br />

An unexpected combination of artisanal blown glass and a<br />

plissé textile diffuser, the design pushes the limits of materiality.<br />

A visual joy whether in its illuminated or unilluminated state,<br />

its name is not a reference to the Philippine capital but comes<br />

from the Spanish Mantón de Manila, a traditional silk shawl<br />

commonly used by flamenco dancers.<br />

Giogetti’s first collaboration with the great hospitality designer,<br />

Adam D. Tihany, is appropriately his interpretation of the bar<br />

cabinet. Host is a light and<br />

versatile piece that can be<br />

placed in various locations<br />

and comprises of a fixed<br />

element and a trolley. <strong>The</strong><br />

sinuous lines that Tihany<br />

is known for are combined<br />

with Giorgetti’s rigor and the<br />

result is an exquisite object<br />

of retro inspiration that<br />

furnishes with witty flair.<br />

Available at Space Furniture<br />

Malaysia.<br />

Available at Linds Furniture<br />

License to Chill<br />

Gandia Blasco’s outdoor furniture is so hot, it’s cool and the Spanish company’s latest<br />

collection by Daniel Germani makes us dream of the chicest beach getaways. Named<br />

Solanas after a beach in Uruguay where Germani used to spend his childhood summers,<br />

the Outdoor Chill Daybed Chill is made of thermo-lacquered welded aluminium for<br />

lightness and durability. Its inviting circular form is also capacious enough for two.<br />

Available at Linds Furniture.<br />

23 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE HOME<br />

Divine Intervention<br />

An exercise in restraint, Cierre’s Divine bed showcases the Italian brand’s savoir faire with leather and how it can be combined impactfully<br />

with fabric. <strong>The</strong> bed’s austere lines allow the handsome leathers to take centre stage and is a versatile piece which can take on a range of<br />

personalities. Designed by Maurizio Manzoni, the bed also has carefully matched metal detailing for a polished look.<br />

Available at Studio 216<br />

Bear Necessities<br />

An armchair which deftly straddles the<br />

traditional and modern, it’s hard to fathom<br />

that the CH78 Lounge Chair was originally<br />

introduced in 1954. Re-released by Carl Hansen<br />

& Søn as part of the iconic Danish designer,<br />

Hans J. Wegner’s catalogue, the chair’s sculptural<br />

silhouette is defined by a sensual curviness that<br />

offers up a warm embrace - which no doubt gave<br />

rise to its affectionate nickname, Mama Bear.<br />

Available at Studio 216<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

24


Bell of the Ball<br />

Leave it to Magis to make the mundane<br />

cool with the Bell chair, a lightweight,<br />

low-cost stackable monobloc chair<br />

made of recycled polypropylene.<br />

Designed by Magis’ long-time<br />

collaborator, Konstantin Grcic, the<br />

injection-moulded chair is made<br />

from industrial waste from the<br />

Italian furniture manufacturer’s<br />

production facilities and can<br />

be recycled again at the end of<br />

its life. However, the Bell was not<br />

designed to be a throwaway piece of<br />

furniture as its slender frame belies a<br />

reassuring sturdiness.<br />

Available at Linds Furniture.<br />

Blitzkrieg Bop<br />

Described by its designer Mario Bellini as more than just a table, the Blitz is a bolt of lightning that<br />

passed from the renowned designer’s mind to his hands and through the pencil on to the paper. Realised<br />

by B&B Italia, the geometric external frame finds its natural completion in the sinuous shape of the<br />

interior. Eschewing wood for bamboo for its lightness and sustainability, the bamboo is refined by a fine<br />

solid wood processing.<br />

Available at Space Furniture Malaysia<br />

25 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


COVID-19<br />

THE ART<br />

Come<br />

what may<br />

Despite challenges posed by the<br />

pandemic, founders of <strong>The</strong> Actors<br />

Studio continue to nurture the<br />

performing arts in Malaysia.<br />

Text by Ann Marie Chandy<br />

Photos courtesy of <strong>The</strong> Actors Studio<br />

has had a significant impact on the<br />

arts and culture industry, and many dance,<br />

theatre and music exponents the world over<br />

are still reeling from its devastating blow.<br />

Despite falling on hard times, these<br />

same artists have continued to passionately<br />

champion, document and sustain their art, adapting, trying<br />

out new ways of presentation, creating and collaborating<br />

online.<br />

For local theatre company <strong>The</strong> Actors Studio, which<br />

celebrated its 30 th anniversary in 2019, the past seven months<br />

have been some of the most challenging it has faced. Founders<br />

Dato’ Dr Faridah Merican and Joe Hasham have time and<br />

again demonstrated their commitment to contribute to the<br />

performing arts sector in Malaysia, but the <strong>2020</strong> pandemic<br />

almost knocked the wind out of their sails.<br />

Hasham who is also Artistic Director (for <strong>The</strong> Actors<br />

Studio, klpac and penangpac) admits to being devastated that<br />

their theatres had to be closed for a total of 105 days.<br />

All for one: <strong>The</strong> team back at work<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

26


Faridah has been been busy directing since klpac's doors have opened on July 1.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> ‘high’ for <strong>2020</strong> for me,<br />

believe it or not, is the pandemic!<br />

It has forced us to reinvent<br />

ourselves and this has been a<br />

positive. It was a huge wake up<br />

call that has resulted in many<br />

new learnings.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> cast of Life Sdn Bhd: Voices of the Young with Faridah. <strong>The</strong> show was staged in September.<br />

Joe and Faridah draw their energy and enthusiasm from each other.<br />

“As a result of the closure, no funds were coming in,”<br />

he shared. “We were all very concerned for our staff. Not<br />

only the permanent staff members, but the thousands of<br />

part time workers and performers we engage every year.<br />

Quite honestly, I was not sure that I had the wherewithal<br />

to see it through. Fortunately, there were many supporters<br />

who made the burden not so great. Our senior staff, namely<br />

Ian Chow and Ang Yue May, and of course, the ‘never say<br />

die’ Faridah, were a great source of comfort and strength<br />

for me.”<br />

Faridah, who is Executive Producer of <strong>The</strong> Actors<br />

Studio, klpac and penangpac, and Hasham’s wife of 31<br />

years, has a long and illustrious track record in Malaysian<br />

theatre and remains a formidable force in her 80s. She was<br />

disheartened that the pandemic brought to light the fact that<br />

the arts is not regarded as “essential work”.<br />

“This is a most unfortunate statement and reflects the<br />

general attitude of the powers that be. However, we are very<br />

fortunate to have sponsors who do not think along these lines<br />

and have remained loyal throughout. It is also gratifying to<br />

note that the federal government is doing the necessary to<br />

assist the industry and keep the arts alive.”<br />

In June, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin<br />

unveiled a stimulus package to help the Malaysian economy<br />

recover from the impact of COVID-19, and within the<br />

Pelan Jana Semula Ekonomi Negara (PENJANA), RM10<br />

million was allocated for the arts and culture sector.<br />

Thanks to financial aid such as this and from individual<br />

and corporate sponsors, coupled with strict SOPs in<br />

place, <strong>The</strong> Actors Studio and klpac were able to resume<br />

operations, albeit at a slower pace, since 1 July. Though shows<br />

have been smaller in size, they are more intimate and warmer,<br />

and the camaraderie, familiar, wholehearted and loyal.<br />

Faridah’s years of experience have taught her a thing or<br />

two about keeping afloat in good times, and bad.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> ‘high’ for <strong>2020</strong> for me, believe it or not, is<br />

27 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE ART<br />

Strict SOPs have been put in place for all shows.<br />

the pandemic!” she reveals, “It has forced us to reinvent<br />

ourselves and this has been a positive. It was a huge wake up<br />

call that has resulted in many new learnings.”<br />

Faridah goes on to say that the ‘low’ was the shutting<br />

of their doors and the general suffering of not only their<br />

staff, but the entire country. “It was heartbreaking having<br />

to, albeit temporarily, reduce the salaries of our staff. Apart<br />

from financial difficulties, we were also concerned for their<br />

safety and wellbeing.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> pandemic was also a learning experience for<br />

Hasham, 71.<br />

“Personally, I benefited enormously from the experience.<br />

It has made me realise how fragile our existence can be and<br />

how we should never take our good fortune for granted. On<br />

a professional level, I have had to come to terms with the fact<br />

that I cannot be all things to all people. I cannot solve the<br />

problems of the world,” he said, adding that his source of<br />

strength is two-fold – first, his total belief in what he is doing<br />

and why he is doing it and second, Faridah.<br />

Drawing energy from each other is something this couple<br />

is well known for. <strong>The</strong>y are often seen in theatre walking hand<br />

in hand, ready to acknowledge each other as sounding board,<br />

inspiration and pillar of strength. But what was it like to be<br />

stuck at home in solitary confinement for such a long period?<br />

Faridah admits: “Both Joe and I did not stay at home!<br />

We went in to work every day. We needed to do this to<br />

maintain our sanity. Also, we have a number of animals to<br />

care for at klpac, dogs and of course our theatre cat, Mister<br />

Noisy.”<br />

This is not the first time the powerhouse duo has had to<br />

deal with such a catastrophic event. In 2003, floods destroyed<br />

the whole Plaza Putra complex, at Dataran Merdeka, which<br />

With Mister Noisy the resident theatre cat, which gave Joe and Faridah a reason<br />

to visit the theatre during the MCO.<br />

was then the home of <strong>The</strong> Actors Studio. It was not until<br />

a year later that they were able to find a venue, <strong>The</strong> Kuala<br />

Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac) at Sentul Park, which<br />

officially opened its doors in 2005.<br />

“I believe that these misfortunes that have confronted us<br />

have made us stronger and more resilient,” offered Faridah.<br />

“So my advice to the younger generation is to not be deterred<br />

by any difficulties that may come their way. It is challenges like<br />

these that make us better human beings.”<br />

Hasham says that his hopes for <strong>The</strong> Actors Studio and<br />

klpac in 2021 are to be “better and bolder. To be more mindful<br />

of the important things in life, and to continue to nurture the<br />

performing arts in the best possible manner.”<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

28


THE ART<br />

See the beauty within Stand by me How to win my heart<br />

WHERE<br />

Heart & Art<br />

MEETS<br />

Through her work, artist Tiffany Choong aims to bring joy and shine<br />

light on important topics.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos courtesy of Tiffany Choong<br />

On lai, <strong>The</strong> crowning glory <strong>The</strong> secret to longevity Soulmates<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/OCTOBER <strong>2020</strong> 30


Bird of paradise<br />

Tiffany Choong<br />

<strong>The</strong> great Spanish artist Pablo Picasso once<br />

said “<strong>The</strong> meaning of life is to find your<br />

gift. <strong>The</strong> purpose of life is to give it away.”<br />

When it comes to her art, Tiffany Choong<br />

has similar convictions about its purpose.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> intention of my art is to bring joy<br />

and celebrate life by giving a voice to nature and wildlife<br />

and shining light on certain topics to create enlightening<br />

conversations.”<br />

Adds the Penang-based artist: “I feel like I have grown<br />

in confidence and I am grateful that I am still able to pursue<br />

this journey. <strong>The</strong> adage ‘life is a marathon, not a sprint’ really<br />

holds true for artists. It takes a lot of time, dedication and<br />

commitment to endure the course, and the course at times<br />

feels like a treasure hunt with the lights off. Having a vision<br />

and purpose has helped me to stay focused and motivated.”<br />

As a child, Choong’s ambition was to be a ‘hippie<br />

traveller’. She recalls with a laugh: “I didn’t know at that time<br />

that it wasn’t considered a career. I saw all these backpackers<br />

arriving in Penang, and I wanted to do the same thing - travel<br />

the world!”<br />

She may be all grown-up now, but Choong’s free-spirited<br />

persona and wanderlust cravings remain unabated. In 2019<br />

alone, she managed to visit Singapore, Portugal, Britain and<br />

Germany. “In September 2019, I attended the launch of<br />

Fear Not by Dublin’s popular poet Stephen James Smith at<br />

the Embassy of Ireland in London. I am over the moon that<br />

two of my illustrations were included in his book. My art has<br />

connected me with many amazing people and I am thankful.”<br />

Morning has broken<br />

Live by the sun, love by the moon<br />

31 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE ART<br />

Choong describes herself as being a bohemian artist.<br />

“Basically, it’s a lifestyle to be able to draw and paint authentically<br />

and also be able to travel,” muses Choong, who studied French<br />

and interior design at University College London. She is quick<br />

to add: “However, the bohemian part is proving to be an<br />

ideology; in reality, I have to treat art as a business.”<br />

Although this past year has been challenging, no thanks<br />

to the pandemic, Choong has opted to look at the brighter<br />

side of things. “Despite COVID-19 and the devastation that<br />

it has brought upon the world, it has actually turned out to be<br />

my best year. I have never had to work so hard in my life to<br />

succeed, as my mindset was to work or die.”<br />

Entering <strong>2020</strong>, Choong had two group art exhibitions<br />

already planned. <strong>The</strong> first was BELANG at the Penang<br />

State Art Gallery in collaboration with the Department<br />

of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN). <strong>The</strong><br />

exhibition, which featured Choong’s art piece Bulan, showed<br />

Malaysia’s commitment to addressing the extinction of<br />

the Malayan Tiger.<br />

During the Movement Control Order (MCO), Choong<br />

was approached by restaurant De Wan 1958 by Chef Wan. “It<br />

was to illustrate for the ‘My Unity Tiffin’ carrier for Merdeka<br />

and Malaysia Day celebration, a collaboration between Chef<br />

Wan and Hugo Boss to support local restaurants and the Lost<br />

Food Project. <strong>The</strong>y wanted illustrations of Malaysian wildlife<br />

including the Malayan Tiger and so Bulan the tiger was able<br />

to shine once more for a good cause.”<br />

Another project she participated in during the MCO<br />

was “Portraits For NHS Heroes”. <strong>The</strong> project was initiated<br />

by British artist Tom Croft as a way to celebrate and thank<br />

frontliners, medics and nurses for their work during the<br />

pandemic. Artists were invited to offer portraits of frontliners<br />

on Instagram using the hashtag #PortraitsforNHSHeroes.<br />

This project has since been curated as a permanent virtual art<br />

exhibition on Google Arts and Culture website.<br />

During the MCO, social media connected Choong and<br />

her art to the world. “It has been a lifesaver! During the<br />

lockdown, I completed a series of paintings on birds which I<br />

observed from my balcony. I made them available to download<br />

online for free for people who were keen to start birdwatching,”<br />

explains Choong.<br />

“I also started a series of pet portrait commissions, which<br />

I collaborated with singer-songwriter Chelsia Ng who provided<br />

the music to my art videos. It was a way to generate some<br />

income but the joy of reading my clients’ feedback on social<br />

media exceeded any monetary reward.”<br />

Thus far, Choong has participated in various group<br />

exhibitions such as Chairity (organised by National Cancer<br />

Internal monologues, a mixed media work.<br />

Portrait of a frontliner.<br />

My Unity Tiffin’ illustrated by Tiffany Choong for De Wan 1958 by Chef Wan<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/OCTOBER <strong>2020</strong> 32


“<strong>The</strong> intention of my art is to bring<br />

joy and celebrate life by giving a voice<br />

to nature and wildlife and shining<br />

light on certain topics to create<br />

enlightening conversations.”<br />

Garden of Eden<br />

Enchanted forest Once upon a time Be still and listen to your soul<br />

Midsummers night dream<br />

Society at <strong>The</strong> Edge Gallery, Kuala Lumpur in 2014), Femmes<br />

Plurielles (by Alliance Francaise at <strong>The</strong> Pitt Street, Penang in<br />

2015) and 8 (all-women exhibition at China House Gallery<br />

in 2017).<br />

In 2018, Choong held her very first exhibition as a<br />

solo artist; it was held at G Art Gallery in G Hotel, Penang.<br />

Titled Treasures Of A Straits Chinese, it featured 30 paintings<br />

inspired by Choong’s Peranakan ancestry; more than half of<br />

the collection were sold within the first week.<br />

Most of the works were painted in gold and black, using<br />

acrylic and oil on canvas. <strong>The</strong>y revolved around elements<br />

of nature, including flowers and insects. From the crest<br />

feathers of the cockatoo in the Garden Of Eden to the<br />

dragonfly’s flight in Flutter Your Wings And Fly, the pieces<br />

are exquisitely detailed.”<br />

According to Choong, her art has its roots in the<br />

Peranakan culture. Somewhere during the process of creating<br />

this collection, it dawned on her that she is the legacy of her<br />

ancestors. “It brought back memories of my childhood, of<br />

being surrounded by black-and-gold furnishings and colourful<br />

porcelain vases,” says Choong, who is the third of four siblings;<br />

she is the only girl.<br />

“I wanted to bring this heritage back which many people<br />

may have forgotten. In my imagination, if the Peranakan<br />

culture evolves, what will the next phase look like?” She did<br />

inject a couple of modern elements here and there; one of her<br />

most favourite paintings (You Make My Heart Smile) featured<br />

a pair of flamingos.<br />

Away from art, her passions include travelling and sports.<br />

“I am a bit of a sponge, I like a lot of things. By travelling, I<br />

meet people from different cultures and backgrounds which<br />

broadens the mind. And if I am in Penang, I hike up Penang<br />

Hill every other day.”<br />

What’s her advice to aspiring artists?<br />

“Know the reality of the industry, and the hard work that<br />

goes into it. One must also be able to stand the course of time,<br />

as you might not be making money for the first few years.<br />

Anyone can follow their passion and become an artist but to<br />

make a living from it, one has to treat it is as a business and<br />

become an artpreneur.”<br />

For more on Choong’s works, visit www.BulanLifestyle.com<br />

Emotional Juxtaposition of Time & Space – Blue (<strong>2020</strong>), Acrylic on canvas.<br />

33 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE GADGETS<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

34


Edge of Tomorrow<br />

Check out the tech making its presence felt today,<br />

and in the year ahead.<br />

Text by Ann Marie Chandy<br />

Photos courtesy of respective brands<br />

Doesn’t it feel like the future<br />

has already arrived,<br />

with people everywhere<br />

donning masks, online<br />

shopping and food<br />

delivery allowing you<br />

to never leave your homes, and cashless<br />

payments being the order of the day? What<br />

comes next? Privacy becomes obsolete? X-ray<br />

pills? Let’s save the uber future for tomorrow.<br />

Check out the tech making its presence felt<br />

today, and stay abreast of what’s on the<br />

cutting edge.<br />

Palm Of Your Hand<br />

Now there’s a Fold2 which comes in Mystic<br />

Black and Mystic Bronze. <strong>The</strong> Cover Screen<br />

on Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 is reinforced with<br />

polished Corning Gorilla Glass Victus on the<br />

cover screen, making it very durable. Galaxy<br />

Z Fold2’s Cover Screen measures 6.2 inches<br />

and you get the full smartphone experience<br />

when Galaxy Z Fold2 is folded. Once<br />

unfolded, however, it turns into a tablet-sized<br />

7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen<br />

made from ultra-thin folding glass. With<br />

double the refresh rate of the Cover Screen,<br />

the 120Hz Main Screen easily takes on<br />

high-pressure games and fast scrolling. It’s<br />

like having two whole devices in the palm of<br />

your hand.<br />

35 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE GADGETS<br />

Indoor Drone<br />

A flying drone for inside your home? What will<br />

they think of next? <strong>The</strong> Amazon Ring Always<br />

Home Cam is an autonomous drone-style<br />

camera connected to a series of sensors in the<br />

home, and designed to fly to them and start<br />

recording. If these sensors are triggered by a<br />

potential break-in, the home owner will receive a<br />

smartphone alert that will allow him to watch the<br />

footage live. So, it’s really a security camera that<br />

flies room to room inside your home, shooting<br />

videos that it can stream or upload to the<br />

cloud, providing you with multiple viewpoints<br />

throughout the home without requiring the use<br />

of multiple cameras. When not in use, the drone<br />

flies back to its dock, and recharges.<br />

New Windows Open<br />

Taking video conferencing up a notch, a French<br />

company has developed a tool that allows you<br />

to meet colleagues for stand-up meetings, no<br />

matter where they are in the world. La Vitre is<br />

a communications solution made of a very large<br />

vertical touchscreen equipped with a camera, a<br />

microphone and speaker. Users simply have to<br />

“knock” on the touchscreen to launch a meeting<br />

and remote colleagues appear as a life-size<br />

image right in front of them. <strong>The</strong> screen is also<br />

interactive so you can write on it using a finger<br />

or stylus.<br />

Peeping Through<br />

Rumour has it that Apple may launch an augmented reality line of smart glasses in the spring of 2021. <strong>The</strong> glasses are said to look similar<br />

to regular glasses, with both lenses to feature displays that can be interacted with using gestures. Called “Apple Glass”, it will work in<br />

conjunction with the iPhone and early prototypes have supported LiDAR sensors for 3D scanning.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

36


Surface Duo<br />

Two screens are better than one right? <strong>The</strong><br />

Microsoft Surface Duo is a dual-screen booklike<br />

mobile device, and introduces revolutionary<br />

new ways to use your “phone” thanks to its 360°<br />

hinge, two screens, and apps that seamlessly<br />

work together. <strong>The</strong> Duo is ergonomic and light<br />

for a device with two screens and two batteries.<br />

X Marks the Spot<br />

Superb gaming performance is here.<br />

Microsoft says the Xbox Series X is<br />

its fastest, most powerful console ever.<br />

<strong>The</strong> mini-tower game console features<br />

an all-new D-pad, which is a hybrid<br />

between the Xbox One controller’s fourdirectional<br />

pad and a rounded diagonal<br />

pad, and promises the best responsive<br />

play. Plus, it comes with AMD’s Zen 2<br />

and RDNA 2 architectures providing 12<br />

teraflops of power, supports ray tracing<br />

and is 8K ready. It’s time to level up.<br />

Ring It Up<br />

Heard of the Token ring, which simplifies<br />

contactless payments? <strong>The</strong> wearable device keeps<br />

your information wrapped around your finger,<br />

and all you have to do is knock twice to activate it,<br />

then hold your hand over any contactless reader.<br />

Token comes with a built-in fingerprint sensor so<br />

it scans your fingerprint as you put the ring on<br />

and unlocks your ability to use it. Though not<br />

super new, the token may come in much handier<br />

today, when everyone is trying to limit physical<br />

contact as much as possible.<br />

Race Magic<br />

Use your Nintendo Switch game console to<br />

drive remote-control cars in Mario Kart Live:<br />

Home Circuit. Your kids will surely be thrilled<br />

when this virtual racecourse, which along<br />

with the cars, magically appear on the Switch<br />

screen. Launched in October, the game puts<br />

an augmented reality spin on the iconic racer.<br />

Nintendo says the physical kart responds to<br />

boosts in-game and in the real world, stops when<br />

it hits an item and can be affected in different<br />

ways depending on the race. Players place gates<br />

to create a custom course layout in their own<br />

homes. How cool is that?<br />

37 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


PROPERTY<br />

NEWS<br />

Prestigious. Award-winning. Quality.<br />

Innovative. High capital appreciation.<br />

Good return investments. <strong>The</strong>se are just<br />

some of the signatures of the property<br />

projects undertaken by <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Corporation Berhad. <strong>The</strong> following<br />

pages showcase some novel and stunning residential<br />

and commercial developments as further testament<br />

to the organisation’s flair in this industry. <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Corporation hopes to create a more compassionate<br />

and supportive community, especially within the circles<br />

of influence.<br />

As a responsible developer, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Corporation<br />

continues to deliver on its responsibility to give back<br />

to society by supporting various charitable causes and<br />

participating in celebrations and community events.<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> and Marriott International Launch<br />

Courtyard By Marriott Penang<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Launches Edelweiss SOFO<br />

& Serviced Residences<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Bags Multiple Awards At<br />

<strong>The</strong> Property Guru Asia Property Awards (Malaysia)<br />

Mulan Movie For <strong>Tropicana</strong> Staff


PROPERTY NEWS<br />

Swimming pool<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

and Marriott<br />

International<br />

Launch<br />

Courtyard<br />

By Marriott<br />

Penang<br />

4 September <strong>2020</strong><br />

Property developer <strong>Tropicana</strong> Corporation Berhad<br />

(<strong>Tropicana</strong>), in partnership with Marriott International<br />

on 4 September <strong>2020</strong> launched Courtyard by<br />

Marriott Penang to further energise the tourism industry,<br />

increase employment opportunities and in turn, boost the<br />

local economy.<br />

<strong>The</strong> launch was officiated by Tuan Chow Kon Yeow,<br />

Chief Minister of Penang. Also present were Tan Sri<br />

Dato’ Tan Chee Sing, Group Executive Vice Chairman of<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong>, Mr Alex Yeow, Group CEO of <strong>Tropicana</strong> and<br />

Mr Dion Tan, Group Managing Director of <strong>Tropicana</strong> as<br />

Meeting room<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

40


Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang (fourth from right) officiating the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Penang, together with Tan Sri Dató Tan Chee Sing (center)<br />

Deluxe King room with a daybed<br />

Tuan Chow (left) was given a tour of Courtyard by Marriott Penang by Mr Subash<br />

Basrur (center), accompanied by Mr Dion Tan<br />

well as Mr Subash Basrur, General Manager of Courtyard<br />

by Marriott Penang and Ms Cindy Yoong, Area Director of<br />

Marketing (SEA), Marriott International.<br />

Located at the Group’s luxurious high-rise residential<br />

project <strong>Tropicana</strong> 218 Macalister in the heart of Penang’s<br />

UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the first Courtyard by<br />

Marriott in Malaysia and the 17th Marriott International<br />

brand in the country. This new hotel consists of 199 smart<br />

and spacious rooms and suites; all-day dining restaurant,<br />

Penang Kitchen; and Penang’s first and only distillerythemed<br />

bar, Gin Library.<br />

Additional facilities include a 24-hour fitness centre,<br />

an outdoor infinity pool overlooking Penang Hill, and<br />

dynamic public spaces to help guests transition seamlessly<br />

from work to restful moments. It also comes with a pillarless<br />

ballroom that can accommodate up to 150 guests, eight<br />

state-of the art meeting rooms and one VIP room, each<br />

fitted with the latest audio-visual equipment.<br />

“It gives us great pleasure to launch our country’s first<br />

Courtyard by Marriott here in Penang. It marks the launch<br />

of our second hotel from the Marriott Group, in line with<br />

our strategy to strengthen our investment portfolio and<br />

increase our recurring income stream. We recognise that<br />

Ballroom<br />

this is a challenging time for hotel operators, however with<br />

the support and swift action from both state and federal<br />

governments in controlling and combating COVID-19,<br />

we are optimistic that the local tourism scene is slowly<br />

but steadily recovering even as our international borders<br />

remain closed,” said Mr Dion Tan.<br />

In conjunction with the launch, tourists and visitors can<br />

now avail themselves to special opening rates which start<br />

from RM300 nett per room per night, with complimentary<br />

high-speed WiFi for stays from now till 23 <strong>Dec</strong>ember, <strong>2020</strong>.<br />

41<br />

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


PROPERTY NEWS<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Launches Edelweiss<br />

SOFO & Serviced Residences<br />

19 September <strong>2020</strong><br />

Property developer <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Corporation Berhad (<strong>Tropicana</strong>)<br />

on 19 September <strong>2020</strong> launched<br />

Edelweiss SOFO & Serviced Residences,<br />

the latest phase at <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens<br />

located within the affluent and bustling<br />

neighbourhood of <strong>Tropicana</strong> Indah.<br />

Spread across 2.35 acres with a<br />

GDV of RM855.0 million, Edelweiss<br />

has been designed to cater to the<br />

lifestyle needs of young executives,<br />

urbanites, young families and empty<br />

nesters. Combining serviced residences<br />

and vibrant city offices, it is strategically<br />

located amidst the neighbourhoods of<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Indah and Kota Damansara.<br />

Despite the challenging market<br />

conditions, Edelweiss’ Phase 1 has<br />

already experienced an astounding<br />

75% take-up rate to date, even prior to<br />

its official launch.<br />

“Following the success of our<br />

first four towers at our award-winning<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens development,<br />

we listened to feedback from current<br />

and potential customers. Where possible, we integrated<br />

these into Edelweiss to ensure it exudes modern, urban<br />

vibes yet still able to give residents a quiet place to rest.<br />

It is truly the last gem of <strong>Tropicana</strong> Indah,” said Ms<br />

Joanne Lee, Managing Director of Marketing & Sales<br />

at <strong>Tropicana</strong>.<br />

Intelligently-designed based on the <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

unique development DNA and market needs, Edelweiss<br />

will be the first tower at <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens to introduce<br />

Smart Living and Conveniences for all homeowners. This<br />

offers Serviced Residence homeowners a smart home<br />

concept that comes with a smart home hub, door sensors,<br />

smart sockets and air-conditioner control systems. It also<br />

includes a smart multi-tiered security system.<br />

Rising 52 storeys skywards, this tower houses 630<br />

units of Serviced Residences with built-up ranging<br />

between 556 sq ft to 1,111 sq ft, and 397 SOFO units<br />

with built-up from 452 sq ft to 858 sq ft that come with<br />

flexible, open layout plans. It also has two storeys of retail lots.<br />

With an increasing number of Malaysians preferring to work<br />

and live within the same environment, Edelweiss truly embraces its<br />

tagline “Where Business and Lifestyle Come Together”. Owners of<br />

Edelweiss’ SOFO units will have access to landscape gardens, meeting<br />

rooms, business centres and the multipurpose hall. Residents will enjoy<br />

a wider range of facilities such as the various pools (50m infinity pool,<br />

children’s pool and wading pool), yoga deck, children’s playroom,<br />

children’s playground, reading room, gymnasium and barbeque area.<br />

Edelweiss SOFO & Serviced Residences at <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens has been designed to cater to the<br />

lifestyle needs of young executives, urbanites, young families and empty nesters<br />

Officiating the launch were Mr Dion Tan (centre); Mr Jared Ethan Ang (left); and Ms Joanne Lee<br />

In terms of amenities, residents will not be short of choices as<br />

it is connected to the <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens Mall and the Surian MRT<br />

Station via a designated elevated pedestrian bridge.<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> is offering not-to-be-missed deals via its improved<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> 10-TEN EX10SION Campaign that offers 0% hassle<br />

and 100% flexibility with three new features – 100% Financing, 10%<br />

Discount and Furnishing Package, for a limited-time only.<br />

For more information, visit www.tropicanacorp.com.my/10Ten/<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

42


<strong>Tropicana</strong> Bags Multiple Awards<br />

At <strong>The</strong> PropertyGuru Asia<br />

Property Awards (Malaysia)<br />

15 September <strong>2020</strong><br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Corporation Berhad once again hit another<br />

milestone by clinching multiple awards at the first-ever virtual<br />

gala of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards which drew<br />

property seekers, real estate agents, overseas developers and industry<br />

stakeholders alike.<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Corporation Berhad received the title of Best<br />

Developer, boosted by 10 wins including the coveted trophy of<br />

Best Condo Development (Malaysia) for <strong>Tropicana</strong> Grandhill,<br />

Best Landed Development (Central) for <strong>Tropicana</strong> Aman – Dalia<br />

Residences, Best Hotel Development for Courtyard by Marriott,<br />

Penang @ <strong>Tropicana</strong> 218 Macalister, Best Mixed Use Development<br />

for <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens @ <strong>Tropicana</strong> Indah, Special Recognition<br />

for ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) and Special<br />

Recognition for CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility). Last but<br />

not least, <strong>Tropicana</strong> was also received recognition for the following<br />

categories, Best Mega Township Developer, Best Mega Township<br />

Development for <strong>Tropicana</strong> Aman, Best Retail Development for<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Danga Cove – Oasis 3, Best Housing Architectural<br />

Design for <strong>Tropicana</strong> Danga Cove – Ayera Residences.<br />

Some 25 Malaysian companies took part in the virtual<br />

celebrations with a total of 35 award categories given out to<br />

outstanding builders of the country’s skylines. Prizes were given<br />

out via remote video and the multi-streamed event was viewed<br />

worldwide via their official website, YouTube and Facebook.<br />

Mulan Movie<br />

For <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Staff<br />

8 September <strong>2020</strong><br />

Hollywood blockbuster Mulan is a must-watch for the entire<br />

family, and a welcome respite from the pandemic. With its<br />

themes of friendship and loyalty, it is also the perfect movie<br />

to bring together friends and colleagues.<br />

Staff from <strong>Tropicana</strong> Corporation Berhad (<strong>Tropicana</strong>) were<br />

treated to a special screening of Mulan on 8 September <strong>2020</strong>. <strong>The</strong><br />

movie was screened at MBO Cinemas in <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens Mall,<br />

Kota Damansara , showcasing the latest and most advanced movie<br />

experience and state of the art sound system.<br />

Shown at 7pm (at Hall 1 and Onyx), the movie outing is part<br />

of employee engagement to foster closer ties between co-workers<br />

and also for them to experience the mall’s tenant facilities. To<br />

make the experience sweeter, MBO offered special price to staff for<br />

a medium popcorn and drink (mineral water or soft drink).<br />

Overall, the staff response from <strong>Tropicana</strong> was overwhelming<br />

and everyone had an enjoyable time. A sincere thank you to MBO<br />

for sponsoring the movie.<br />

43<br />

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


SHOPPING | TROPICANA GARDENS MALL<br />

For All Your Needs<br />

It’s time to treat and pamper yourself. What better place than <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Gardens Mall, which offers unbeatable year-end specials. See you there!<br />

BEAUTY<br />

Missy Nail &<br />

Waxing Salon<br />

1F-30, Level 1<br />

603-50332753<br />

Missy Nail & Waxing Salon tends to various beauty needs<br />

amidst the vibrant buzz of <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens Mall. <strong>The</strong><br />

salon offers a diverse range of professional beautifying<br />

services including manicure and pedicure, nail art, nail<br />

extension, spa treatments, eyelash extension, eyelash perm,<br />

eyebrow shaping, waxing and body hair removal. <strong>The</strong> nail<br />

service incorporates products from household brands such as<br />

OPI, Kester, Harmony Gelish, and EzFlow. For <strong>Nov</strong>ember<br />

and <strong>Dec</strong>ember, the salon offers 20% off on all services.<br />

FASHION<br />

BebeButterfly<br />

G-32, Ground Level<br />

603-7660 7115<br />

www.beplusb.com<br />

BebeButterfly designs, produces and sells<br />

women’s fashion wear, such as evening gown,<br />

dinner dress, bridesmaid dress and formal wear<br />

which is suitable for wedding, work, party, event,<br />

dinner or special occasion. We provide alteration<br />

services as well. For <strong>Nov</strong>ember (from 6th), it<br />

offers 11% off on 1pc and 22% off on 2pcs or<br />

more. For <strong>Dec</strong>ember, shoppers get 15% off on<br />

2pcs and 25% off on 3rd pcs onwards.<br />

FASHION<br />

MS. READ<br />

G-11, Ground Level<br />

603-7625 7862<br />

msreadshop.com<br />

MS. READ began as a fashion brand offering stylish, high quality and<br />

well-fitted clothing, fulfilling style needs for women sizes 12 through<br />

24. Upholding a commitment to curvy women looking for trendy<br />

everyday wear that are tailored-to-fit. Enjoy member discounts and<br />

birthday perks when you sign up for FREE lifetime membership.<br />

Also, shop easily online with their brand new app. Download it today!<br />

F&B<br />

Tendon Kohaku<br />

CC-25, Concourse Level<br />

011-6993 1866/ 016-620 5176<br />

www.instagram.com/tendonkohaku_my/<br />

Tendon Kohaku is the<br />

first tendon specialty<br />

restaurant in Malaysia<br />

that serves authentic<br />

Japanese tendon and<br />

tempura (pork free and<br />

no lard). <strong>The</strong> restaurant uses fresh premium<br />

ingredients such as tiger prawn which is<br />

known for its large size and flavourful meat.<br />

Using high tech frying method from Japan, it<br />

produces tempura which is crunchy and not<br />

oily. Its secret sauce is made in-house by using<br />

a special blend of spices. It now offers 10%<br />

discount and complimentary green tea for<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens residences and <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

staff. Only for dine in.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

44


SERVICE<br />

iCare Dental<br />

LG-04, Lower Ground<br />

603- 7660 4428 / 011-6199 0991<br />

www.icaredental.com.my<br />

Besides general dental treatments such as scaling, fillings, extractions,<br />

dentures, crowns, bridges and root canal treatments; iCare Dental<br />

also provides specialised treatments such as teeth whitening, braces,<br />

invisalign, myobraces and implants.<br />

WELLNESS<br />

Qi Odyssey<br />

CC-13, Concourse Level<br />

603-7660 7077<br />

www.qiodyssey.com.my<br />

Qi Odyssey is a new concept combining reflexology massage with<br />

the soothing atmosphere of a traditional Chinese teahouse.<br />

Whether you come to socialise with your friends, spend time with<br />

your loved ones or to simply unwind, Qi Odyssey will offer you<br />

a rejuvenating experience. After a day of exploring <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Gardens Mall, Qi Odyssey should be your go-to destination to<br />

relax and rejuvenate yourself. Now you can enjoy a 10% discount<br />

through their E-Cash Package.<br />

WELLNESS<br />

Fitness Concept<br />

1F-43 & 43A, Level 1, 603- 7660 7118<br />

www.fitnessconcept.com.my<br />

Fitness Concept is a health and fitness equipment chain store that<br />

caters to the development of healthy lifestyle of every Malaysian. It<br />

encourages everyone to stay fit at home! Shoppers at <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Gardens Mall can now enjoy an exclusive additional RM1,200<br />

cashback deal for new arrival MBH 2-in-1 Hybrid Treadmill.<br />

PET CARE<br />

Pet Lovers Centre<br />

LG-07, Ground Level, 603- 7660 4959<br />

petloverscentre.com.my<br />

Pet Lovers Centre (PLC) is a multiple award-winning pet retail and<br />

service chain that is the largest in Singapore, operating more than 150<br />

stores in the region. A household name today, it offers customers the<br />

widest and freshest range, coupled with prompt and warm service.<br />

Unlock your VIP benefits at PLC to enjoy birthday offers, exclusive<br />

promotions, collect loyalty points and much more.<br />

45 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


PROPERTY INVESTMENT<br />

BUYING YOUR<br />

Dream Home<br />

During these times, properties still remain a popular investment<br />

given the wide range of new options available<br />

Text by Sharina Ahmad<br />

Photos from Pexels<br />

Despite the challenging market conditions<br />

posed by the coronavirus pandemic,<br />

the Malaysian property market expects<br />

to see modest recovery in <strong>2020</strong> and<br />

the year ahead. Properties still remain<br />

a popular investment given the wide<br />

range of new options available, coupled with the various<br />

government stimulus measures introduced.<br />

“For those who can afford to leverage on these attractive<br />

schemes available now, they should take advantage of the<br />

attractive packages, low interest rates and government<br />

initiatives,” advised Joanne Lee, Managing Director of<br />

Marketing & Sales at <strong>Tropicana</strong> Corporation Berhad.<br />

“In addition to choosing properties at strategic<br />

locations, properties that have access to well-established<br />

neighbourhoods, good facilities, amenities and connectivity<br />

are important as these would appreciate over the longer-term.<br />

Be smart and confident in securing your dream property,”<br />

added Lee on making smart property purchases in the current<br />

market environment.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

46


47 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


PROPERTY INVESTMENT<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

48


Charles Tan<br />

“<strong>The</strong>re are lots of<br />

good choices in the<br />

secondary property<br />

market”<br />

Joanne Lee<br />

“Access to wellestablished<br />

neighbourhoods, good<br />

facilities, amenities<br />

and connectivity are<br />

important”<br />

Daniel Gambero<br />

“Choose carefully<br />

the developer,<br />

location and<br />

infrastructures<br />

provided”<br />

New Opportunities<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are going to be opportunities that probably didn’t<br />

exist even just a few months ago. If your job is secure and you<br />

have some savings, it’s actually a good time to buy, buy, buy.<br />

According to Charles Tan Chia Lih, owner of independent<br />

blog kopiandproperty.com, the right time to buy needs to be<br />

complemented with the right property and the right price<br />

too. “It would be good just to write down five to 10 reasons and<br />

evaluate all those properties based on these reasons.”<br />

According to Tan, if the properties advertised or researched<br />

fit as a good investment, then it should just be the right<br />

choice. “Yes, this is still a perfect time for first-time<br />

homebuyers. Preferably, they will try to take advantage of<br />

all the incentives like the Home Ownership Campaign (HOC)<br />

that is currently being offered.”<br />

“Try also to expand the choices and not be too focused on<br />

just the primary market. <strong>The</strong>re are lots of good choices in the<br />

secondary property market too,” he advised.<br />

Tan said sellers need to understand the opportunity<br />

cost when they want to sell in this market. “Sell now or<br />

wait until a better price comes along? This is a dilemma that<br />

many investors have in the present market.”<br />

Choose Carefully<br />

Property consultant, REI Group CEO Dr Daniele Gambero,<br />

said that it is definitely a good time to buy property provided<br />

you choose the right one.<br />

“Choose carefully the developer, location and infrastructures<br />

provided. For instance, optical fibre and good reception for the<br />

internet is a must-have criteria for some buyers.”<br />

Gambero advised the buyer to not simply accept ridiculous<br />

discounts or rebates as it might be tricky. “Please double check<br />

with bankers your loan eligibility then only you can plan for a<br />

visit at the sales gallery.”<br />

According to Gambero, this moment of time is worth for<br />

home investment, especially for residential properties priced<br />

between RM200,000 to RM800,000.<br />

“Demand for residential units is still strong, and the<br />

shortfall equals roughly RM800,000. In the next 15 to 20 years,<br />

Malaysia will see an additional six to eight million population<br />

increase or growth and our senior citizens will move from<br />

the current seven million to above 14 million, generating<br />

additional demand.”<br />

Ability To Obtain Loan<br />

“What matters is the importance of having the ability to<br />

obtain a loan and being able to hold the units if, when<br />

delivered, it will not be easy or fast to find a tenant,”<br />

said Gambero.<br />

It may take more than five years for unsold residential<br />

units to be absorbed into the market. After all, the current<br />

overnight policy rate (OPR) is at its all-time-low at 1.75%<br />

since 2004, with a total of 125 basis points (bps) cuts thus<br />

far this year to help cushion the economic impact of the<br />

Covid-19 outbreak.<br />

This shows that low bank lending rate is a big<br />

advantage if you are looking to take out a home loan to<br />

buy a property now as it could reduce your monthly<br />

loan repayments by over RM1,000 or more for bigger<br />

loan amounts.<br />

49 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


ADVERTORIAL<br />

Stay Safe<br />

IN SCHOOL THIS YEAR<br />

It’s time to send your child to school, but you’re<br />

worried about how they will fare in these trying<br />

times of the coronavirus. At Kindyland, we want<br />

to give you a head start, by following these<br />

simple tips.<br />

Kindyland offers<br />

programmes for<br />

children aged 3-6<br />

and has been raising<br />

all-rounded children<br />

for over a decade. Its<br />

mission is to prepare students for the next<br />

step of their education while instilling good<br />

values and shaping well-mannered children.<br />

<strong>The</strong> trilingual center emphasizes Malaysia’s<br />

3 core languages and encourages children<br />

to explore and learn, to connect what<br />

they have experienced in class to the world<br />

around them. Learning is naturally fun, and<br />

students develop physically, emotionally and<br />

cognitively in a caring environment while<br />

learning to interact well socially with their<br />

peers.<br />

School next year, however, may be a<br />

little different. Parents are sure to be a little<br />

apprehensive especially since we’ve just<br />

been through a pandemic. Dealing with the<br />

coronavirus has been challenging for grown<br />

ups, so consider how strange and scary it must<br />

be for little children, to go out into the real<br />

world, especially with social distancing, mask<br />

wearing, and frequent sanitising in place.<br />

Even during ordinary times, many<br />

children suffer from anxiety in the form of<br />

tears and tummy aches when they have to go<br />

to school. So, what can parents do to reassure<br />

children when it’s time to leave the confines<br />

of their homes and go to school?<br />

Here are some tips that may come in<br />

handy, so you can reassure your child, and<br />

have some peace of mind yourself.<br />

Prepare ahead: Start preparing your<br />

children for preschool and school and what to<br />

expect. Go through what a normal day will be<br />

like. In addition, teach them how to stay safe<br />

and how to wash their hands for 20 seconds.<br />

Remind them not to share their food, toys or<br />

utensils, and to refrain from hugging each<br />

other. Little children will want to play together<br />

and that’s okay as long as they know the basics<br />

of hygiene and to keep a safe distance.<br />

Create a routine: Make sure your<br />

children are going to bed early enough and<br />

have a morning routine. When a child has<br />

a predictable daily routine, it reminds them<br />

that they are in a secure, loving environment<br />

and reduces their stress. Start the day right by<br />

making sure your child eats a healthy breakfast<br />

on a daily basis.<br />

Immunity boost: To boost children’s<br />

immunity, they should be getting a good<br />

night’s sleep as well as a balanced diet. Do<br />

ensure they have taken all their vaccinations<br />

to keep them protected.<br />

Communicate often. Try talking to your<br />

child everyday and be honest and open. Your<br />

child may have questions about school, and<br />

the virus. Even if you haven’t discussed the<br />

pandemic with them, try and explain it to them<br />

so they have a basic understanding and are not<br />

fearful. Developing a habit of communicating<br />

Second<br />

20Rule<br />

You can create a ‘game’<br />

out of it - try putting flour<br />

on your child’s hands and<br />

show them how it settles<br />

into the cracks and creases<br />

of our hands; then explain<br />

that this is what germs do,<br />

also, and why it is important<br />

to scrub carefully for 20<br />

seconds when washing<br />

hands, to get rid of all the<br />

flour. Try singing the happy<br />

birthday song twice (which<br />

approximately equates to<br />

20 seconds).<br />

daily is a good rule - try kicking things off with<br />

something like “I can’t wait to hear about your<br />

day.” This lets your kids know that you care<br />

about them and look forward to seeing them<br />

again at the end of the day.<br />

Set a good example. Model good habits<br />

for your children, including good hand<br />

hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, staying<br />

home if you don’t feel well and wearing<br />

face masks in public. As long as your child<br />

is out of the house, and in areas where there<br />

is a crowd, or there is confined space, he<br />

should be wearing a mask to reduce the risk<br />

of transmission.<br />

School doesn’t have to be a dreaded<br />

experience. You can create a happy<br />

atmosphere if you just take time to prepare<br />

and communicate with your children.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

50


GOLF LUXE ACCESSORIES<br />

Great On <strong>The</strong> Green<br />

<strong>The</strong>se golf accessories should add a nice<br />

touch to your enjoyment of the game.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee / Photos from the respective brands<br />

Mizuno Mesh Belt<br />

For the past couple of years, mesh belts have been all the rage and<br />

makes a welcome deviation from golf ’s usual belt offerings. Where<br />

colours are concerned, this belt comes in black/white or blue/white.<br />

<strong>The</strong> beauty of these types of belts is that one size fits all. So, what’re<br />

you waiting for? Strap yourself in!<br />

Wilson Range Ball Bag<br />

We love the aesthetics and practicality of this retro offering. If you’re<br />

a practice ground junkie, then this could be up your alley. It hails from<br />

a company that is steeped in history and has had more major wins<br />

in players using their equipment than any other manufacturer. From<br />

Gene Sarazen to Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer to Ben Crenshaw, and<br />

most recently, Gary Woodland with his US Open win at Pebble Beach.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

52


Titleist Scotty Cameron Pivot<br />

Repair Tool<br />

For the golfer that has everything but the proper divot<br />

tool, this is a much-welcomed item which has you covered<br />

on course for repairs. This sturdy tool from Titleist has<br />

engraved detail and will be part of your on-course line-up<br />

for years to come. You’re probably going to use this often so<br />

why not treat yourself to something more stylish than the<br />

usual two-pronged attack.<br />

Ping Moonlite Carry Bag<br />

<strong>The</strong> dual strap stays in the same position which makes<br />

picking it up easy and there’s plenty of room for all 14<br />

clubs which isn’t always the case with a lightweight carry<br />

bag. <strong>The</strong>re are three colours to choose from – navy/white/<br />

scarlet; black/scarlet; and heather grey/bright blue. This<br />

weighs in at just 2.5lbs and has been re-designed so it’s light<br />

even for a moon bag and now features a zippered waterbottle<br />

pocket.<br />

Nike AeroBill Tiger Woods<br />

Heritage86 Golf Hat<br />

This Nike cap is immediately noticeable with its iconic<br />

‘TW’ logo. Superb ventilation is provided by the holes and<br />

perforations at the front of the design while Nike’s AeroBill<br />

technology combines breathability with sweat-wicking<br />

comfort. In terms of colours, there are many to choose<br />

from. Bestselling model at the moment is the Special<br />

Edition ‘Frank’ design.<br />

Big Max Blade IP Push Trolley<br />

By using a simple three-stage folding system, the internal<br />

mechanism allows you to click the parts into place rather<br />

than using fiddly clips. In its folded-down state, the Big<br />

Max Blade IP has a depth of just 12.5cm, making it easy<br />

to store in the tightest of spaces such as the base of your<br />

car boot. Once assembled and ready to<br />

go, it’s evident how lightweight and<br />

easy to push it is, even when trekking<br />

up slopes. Also adjustable is the<br />

handle height, which<br />

makes a difference to<br />

the trolley’s practicality.<br />

53 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE SWING<br />

ALLURE OF<br />

Ancient<br />

Beauty<br />

<strong>The</strong> prestige of playing a world class golf course is enhanced by<br />

Cambodia’s richness of traditions.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos courtesy of Angkor Golf Resort<br />

<strong>The</strong> majestic Angkor Wat<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

54


55 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE SWING<br />

A scenic view of Angkor Golf Resort.<br />

<strong>The</strong> beauty of Cambodia lies in the richness<br />

of its traditions. <strong>The</strong> elegance of golf<br />

comes from its strategy, honour and skills.<br />

At Angkor Golf Resort, these essential<br />

characteristics are blended to perfection.<br />

Angkor Golf Resort is conveniently located<br />

only five minutes away from Siem Reap International Airport<br />

and 10 minutes from the city center and famed Angkor Wat.<br />

Its award-winning 18-hole golf course is designed by<br />

European legend Sir Nick Faldo, making it the most premiere<br />

golf course in Cambodia. Faldo, a British professional golfer<br />

once ranked No. 1 on the Official World Golf Ranking for a<br />

total of 97 weeks, is now mainly an on-air golf analyst and his<br />

expertise certainly comes into play.<br />

Here, the course provides all level of golfers a<br />

challenging and fair test of golf, rewarding accuracy.<br />

<strong>The</strong> par 72 championship course uses the latest Paspalum<br />

turf throughout, allowing for an exceptional playing surface<br />

and enjoyable round. Its fairways are typically generous,<br />

but the bunkering style is impressively bold. <strong>The</strong> greens<br />

have plenty of subtle undulations and they reward and<br />

encourage a variety of approach shots. Expect plenty of<br />

bunkers and water hazards at every hole to keep the golfer’s<br />

concentration going.<br />

Hole 2 takes full advantage of the largest grove of pre-existing trees on the site.<br />

Hole 13 of Angkor Golf Resort.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

56


A view of Hole 14<br />

Caddies are ever ready to assist to ensure one’s enjoyment.<br />

Stunning greenery surrounds the golf course.<br />

Surrounded by greenery, the 18-holes course is an<br />

expansive 7279 yards, par 72 built to challenge all levels<br />

of golfers. <strong>The</strong> course’s maintenance is superb with<br />

immaculate greens and you can warm yourself up at their<br />

300 yards grass range and practice putting green before your<br />

round of golf.<br />

Other amenities include a contemporary designed<br />

clubhouse, pro shop with a range of top golf brands, lockers<br />

and shower rooms as well as golf cart, clubs and shoes for<br />

rent. <strong>The</strong>re is a restaurant that serves both Western and<br />

Asian cuisine while caddies are ever ready to assist in spoken<br />

English to ensure one’s enjoyment.<br />

Over the years, Angkor Golf Resort has hosted a<br />

number of championships including the Ladies European<br />

Tour Asian Qualifier, Angkor Amateur Open and Angkor<br />

4-ball Championship.<br />

For more information, visit https://www.angkor-golf.com.<br />

Water runs down the entire length of this hole on the left side.<br />

57 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE TIME<br />

Wonders On <strong>The</strong> Wrist<br />

Mark the end of the year with these timepieces that are sure to<br />

dazzle and impress.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos courtesy of respective watch brands<br />

Like Second Skin<br />

Piaget has launched the new Limelight Gala 32mm<br />

Automatic; two of its models are adorned with gold<br />

Milanese mesh bracelets that are reminiscent of bracelets<br />

crafted in the 1950s. Each bracelet starts life as a gold bar,<br />

which the artisan then works into tiny gold threads that<br />

are twisted, weaved and squeezed by hand, taking over 35<br />

hours to complete. <strong>The</strong> bracelet is perfectly integrated into<br />

the case, giving the impression that it is a natural extension<br />

of the asymmetrical lugs and the case of the watch. In<br />

addition to the stunning aesthetic, the mesh bracelets are<br />

extremely supple and comfortable on the wrist, feeling<br />

almost like second skin.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Spirit Of Travel<br />

Thanks to the design of its dial and the endless<br />

customisation offered by the palette of over 100<br />

interchangeable straps, the Tambour Moon expresses<br />

the spirit of travel with its GMT complication as well<br />

as demonstrating Louis Vuitton’s fine craftsmanship and<br />

creativity. Whatever the version – 35mm, 39.5mm or<br />

44mm in diameter – travel and escapism beckon with this<br />

Tambour Moon Dual Time. Admire the two-tone flange<br />

connected to the day/night indicator for ease of reading,<br />

as well as the Monogram Flowers or richly coloured flags.<br />

Designed especially for the model, they all evoke Louis<br />

Vuitton tradition, recalling the customised motifs on the<br />

travellers’ trunks of yesteryear.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

58


All About Contrast<br />

While the Defy 21 and Defy Classic have gone through<br />

numerous iterations that incorporate vibrant colours, the<br />

Zenith boutique-exclusive Black & White editions take<br />

on a drastically different approach with an achromatic<br />

palette. <strong>The</strong>se on-trend reinterpretations of the two most<br />

emblematic models in Zenith’s Defy collection emphasise<br />

their bold architecture through heavily contrasting black<br />

and white. Featuring a matte micro blasted black ceramic<br />

case in 44mm for the Defy 21 and 41mm for the Defy<br />

Classic, the muted finish enhances the sleek lines of the<br />

faceted case as it absorbs light rather than reflect it. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

are paired with white ceramic bezels.<br />

Sporty And Chic<br />

From Bell & Ross, the BR 05 Black Steel and Gold takes<br />

on a sporty chic look. This new addition to the BR 05<br />

urban collection recalls the 80s spirit by mixing two-tone:<br />

satin-finished, and polished steel and 18 carat rose gold.<br />

Featuring the brand’s iconic graphism, the black sunray<br />

dial contrasts with the rose gold applique numerals,<br />

indices, and skeletonised hour and minute hands. <strong>The</strong><br />

sapphire glass case back reveals the beating heart of its<br />

movement. <strong>The</strong> 40mm geometric watch, made of surfaces<br />

and angles, ensures the bracelet can adapt seamlessly to<br />

any wrist. Equipped with a bi-material bracelet for an<br />

elegant look, or a black rubber strap for a sporty touch.<br />

59 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE LOOK<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

60


In <strong>The</strong> Mood<br />

for Revelry<br />

After the turbulent year we’ve had, it’s time to relax and let our hair down. With<br />

Christmas and year-end festivities around the corner, we show you how to dress<br />

up and welcome 2021 in style. Let the good times begin!<br />

Text: William K.C. Kee<br />

Photography: Brian Fang @ M8 Studio<br />

Art Direction: Geetha Muniandy<br />

Hair & Makeup: Cindy Hor<br />

Models: Angie & Kaio @ Runway Productions<br />

Stylist: William K.C. Kee<br />

Stylist Assistant: Pearly Ng<br />

Location: Edelweiss SOFO & Serviced Residences, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens<br />

Apparel: Gate One Venice KL, Lot 10<br />

Accessories: Krizi by Chris Choo<br />

Be Our Guest<br />

Look the part of the perfect hostess, when<br />

you’re throwing an intimate gathering at your<br />

abode. For a festive vibe, add a generous<br />

dose of colour to the wardrobe. <strong>The</strong> intricacy<br />

of this coat is balanced with a casual getup<br />

underneath, including a pair of comfy jeans.<br />

Coat and belt from Dolce & Gabbana<br />

Shirt from John Richmond<br />

Jeans from Frankie Morello<br />

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THE LOOK<br />

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Ace Accessory<br />

Good things come in small packages, as<br />

the adage goes. Surprise your guests with a<br />

thoughtful gift, or get them talking with your<br />

fabulous getup. To jazz up the outfit, all you need<br />

is a clutch bag replete with studs.<br />

Blouse from Brian Dales<br />

Skirt from Frankie Morello<br />

Clutch bag from Dolce & Gabbana<br />

63 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE LOOK<br />

Let’s Get Ready<br />

This couple knows how to<br />

complement each other when<br />

it comes to their party outfits.<br />

By embracing bold colours and<br />

motifs, they stand out from the<br />

rest of the pack. After all, ‘tis<br />

the season to be jolly.<br />

On Kaio: Jacket and shirt from Brian Dales<br />

Jeans from Frankie Morello<br />

Belt from Dolce & Gabbana<br />

On Angie: Dress from Dolce & Gabbana<br />

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THE LOOK<br />

Blooming<br />

Sensation<br />

It’s easy to slip into a festive mood<br />

with this floral jacket, which is<br />

complemented by an equally striking<br />

backpack. Best of all, the jacket is<br />

highly versatile. Pair it with a simple<br />

t-shirt and faded denims and you’re<br />

good to go for the next shindig.<br />

T-shirt, jeans and backpack from John Richmond<br />

Jacket from Dolce & Gabbana<br />

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67 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE LOOK<br />

Warm<br />

Welcome<br />

To welcome guests<br />

to her lovely abode,<br />

she slips into this<br />

sophisticated dress. <strong>The</strong><br />

white colour provides an<br />

apt backdrop for floral<br />

motifs. To bring up the<br />

style quotient, pair it with<br />

the right accessories.<br />

Dress from Dolce & Gabbana<br />

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Serious About Style<br />

A colourful shirt proves to be just the thing to contrast this neutral-toned<br />

suit. For an unpredictable finish, throw on a pair of white sneakers. Now<br />

you’re ready to kick off the night’s proceedings.<br />

Jacket and pants from Brian Dales<br />

Shirt from Frankie Morello<br />

Belt from Dolce & Gabbana<br />

Shoes from DIS<br />

69 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE LOOK<br />

In Good Company<br />

<strong>The</strong> evening is far from over as they opt for<br />

more edgy ensembles. For that rock ‘n’ roll<br />

feel, he goes for ripped jeans while she opts<br />

for a playful top and ribbon belt. Two’s a<br />

company, indeed..<br />

On Kaio: Jacket and sweatshirt from Brian Dales<br />

Jeans and belt from Frankie Morello<br />

On Angie: Top from John Richmond<br />

Pants from Brian Dales<br />

Belt from Dolce & Gabbana<br />

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THE LOOK | RUNWAY<br />

Embrace <strong>The</strong> New<br />

As we edge closer to the end of the year, it’s time to bid adieu to<br />

bad memories - and bad fashion.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee / Photos courtesy of the respective brands<br />

Leather belt with gold chain<br />

from Givenchy<br />

Ribbed knit turtleneck<br />

sweater from Staud<br />

Leather phone<br />

holder with handle<br />

from Louis Vuitton<br />

Camel coat from<br />

Babaton Stedman<br />

Leather and gold<br />

bracelet from Aigner<br />

Max Mara<br />

Natural Tones All Over<br />

<strong>The</strong>se monochromatic and neutral outfits are easy to<br />

replicate and look great on everyone. Don’t be afraid to<br />

experiment with varying shades of this neutral tone – try<br />

camel, sand, or even buff. <strong>The</strong> opportunities are endless!<br />

Kate Gommino loafers from Tods<br />

Leather tote bag<br />

from Max Mara<br />

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Long necklace with<br />

pearls from Tod’s<br />

Flocked glitter tiered<br />

gown from Rodarte<br />

Perlée bangle with<br />

white gold and<br />

diamonds from Van<br />

Cleef & Arpels<br />

Evening Eleganza<br />

<strong>The</strong> year-end means a night of celebration or<br />

two. An evening dress is a compulsory part of<br />

every woman’s wardrobe; add accessories like<br />

a bold clutch bag and a pair of funky heels to<br />

stand out amongst the crowd.<br />

Givenchy<br />

Buckle and pearls<br />

earrings from<br />

Roger Vivier<br />

Statement strappy<br />

stiletto heels from<br />

Emilio Pucci<br />

Pleated leather pouch<br />

from Givenchy<br />

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THE LOOK | RUNWAY<br />

Dressed To Chill<br />

Take a chill pill, man. <strong>The</strong> year’s almost over,<br />

so let’s look our best in welcoming 2021.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee / Photos courtesy of the respective brands<br />

MSGM<br />

Bomber jacket with contrast<br />

sleeve from Burberry<br />

Hawaiian print shirt<br />

from Gucci<br />

Beach shorts from Saint Laurent<br />

Rive Droite<br />

Life’s a Beach<br />

Diver Chronograph 44mm<br />

from Ulysse Nardin<br />

At first, knockout shorts were designed to be<br />

worn as beachwear or sportswear but as we<br />

advanced into the 2000s, designers started<br />

turning these garments into stylish options to<br />

be worn outside the beach and gym.<br />

Tinted sunglasses with<br />

monochrome frame from<br />

Louis Vuitton<br />

Statement surfboard<br />

from Saint Laurent<br />

Rive Droite<br />

Terrain low sustainable<br />

sneakers from MCM<br />

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Denim trucker jacket<br />

from Rag & Bone<br />

Button down slim fit striped<br />

shirt from Polo Ralph Lauren<br />

Navy formal tie from<br />

<strong>The</strong> Tie Bar<br />

Blue tinted sunglasses<br />

from Bold Dots<br />

<strong>The</strong> Return Of Denim<br />

Where recent seasons have seen denim in the<br />

form of rave-ready acid washes and bleachedout<br />

styles, the perennial favourite returns in its<br />

purest, rawest form. Functional denim cargo<br />

pants with a wide silhouette are teamed with<br />

classic tailored pieces.<br />

E Tautz<br />

Light marble washed<br />

flare denim from Gucci<br />

Card holder with<br />

lanyard from<br />

Louis Vuitton<br />

Casual loafers from Fabi<br />

75 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE LOOK | JEWELLERY<br />

Time To Shine<br />

Before we know it, <strong>2020</strong> will be over. Hopefully, next year will bring better tidings.<br />

From bright-coloured gems to out-of-this-world necklaces, here’s how to inject<br />

glamour into our year-end soiree looks.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee/ Photos courtesy of respective brands<br />

Shimmering<br />

statement ring<br />

from Swarovski<br />

Emerald and<br />

diamond<br />

necklace in white<br />

gold from Louis<br />

Vuitton<br />

Stacy Martin<br />

Happy Diamonds<br />

earrings from<br />

Chopard<br />

Gold domed<br />

cocktail ring<br />

from Roberto<br />

Coin<br />

Yellow gold Clash de<br />

Cartier ring from Cartier<br />

Stacy Martin<br />

Ruby<br />

chandelier<br />

earrings from<br />

Chopard<br />

Colour Me Glam<br />

Forget about just sticking to silver and gold as<br />

designers brought on an explosion of colours.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re were oversized statement pieces, floral<br />

and beaded items as well as mismatched<br />

colours. It’s all about having fun with your<br />

accessories; the shinier the better, of course!<br />

Pink gold bracelet<br />

with diamonds from<br />

Van Cleef & Arpels<br />

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Narrow hinged bangle in<br />

18k gold from Tiffany<br />

Necklace with<br />

dragonfly pendant<br />

from Swarovski<br />

Earrings with<br />

diamond<br />

stones from<br />

Lugano<br />

Linny hoops 18k gold<br />

vermeil from ‘KIN<br />

Victoria Beckham<br />

Moments To Remember<br />

Many of life’s biggest celebrations - engagements,<br />

weddings, anniversaries - are marked with a<br />

jewel. And bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings<br />

frequently make appearances at other significant<br />

times of life too - graduations, birthdays, job<br />

promotions. This makes jewellery a fitting tribute<br />

to moments we want to remember forever.<br />

Nudo rings in rose<br />

gold with chalcedony<br />

rose quartz and brown<br />

diamonds from Pomellato<br />

Cable bracelet from<br />

David Yurman<br />

Perlee Diamond<br />

pave ring from<br />

Van Cleef &<br />

Arpels<br />

77 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE BEAUTY<br />

Towards A Better You<br />

After a tiring day, you deserve a bit of pampering in the comfort of your<br />

home. Here are products to rejuvenate the skin and body.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos courtesy of respective brands<br />

Clé de Peau Beauté La Creme<br />

Step into a classic tale this festive season with the limitededition<br />

Enchanted Lake Collection by Clé de Peau Beauté.<br />

Influenced by the alluring romance of Swan Lake, this<br />

collection features a captivating design makeover for some<br />

of the brand’s products including La Crème. Available in<br />

select markets, La Crème takes on the hypnotic hues of the<br />

enchanted lake. <strong>The</strong> four sides of its case depict different<br />

scenes from the timeless classic, all celebrating the power and<br />

victory of love.<br />

B&B Labs Hand Serum<br />

Get the best of both worlds, by sanitising and moisturising hands at one go! Show<br />

your hands some love and get the care you need with an alcohol-free, natural<br />

and organic hand serum. Made with 100% natural essential oils - geranium,<br />

peppermint, lavender and eucalyptus - for a relaxing and antiseptic blend that<br />

soothes the senses, not to mention it’s great for hypoallergenic skin. It eliminates<br />

99.9% of germs to keep hands hydrated and protected.<br />

Aesop Breathless Hydrating<br />

Body Treatment<br />

Experience spa-like tranquillity with Aesop’s Breathless Hydrating Body<br />

Treatment, a botanical massage oil for all-over hydration. Enriched with<br />

blood orange, jojoba seed and laurel leaf, the luxurious oil intensely<br />

moisturises and restores dry patches of skin, delivering ultimate<br />

hydration for a soft, supple body. It is the perfect accompaniment to<br />

massage treatments.<br />

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Pestle & Mortar Pure<br />

Hyaluronic Serum<br />

With this, one can combat dull, dry skin. It’s a lightweight,<br />

ultra-hydrating formula with a convenient dropper applicator.<br />

Infused with hyaluronic acid and antioxidant Vitamin E, the<br />

quick-absorbing serum delivers intense moisture and hydration,<br />

whilst plumping and firming skin to reveal a younger-looking<br />

appearance. It can be used as a make-up primer to soften fine<br />

lines and restore a radiant glow. <strong>The</strong> serum is suitable for all skin<br />

types.<br />

Italwax Hair Removal<br />

From Italy, Italwax carries the latest formulation in waxing<br />

that provides you with painless depilation. With Italwax, the<br />

soft removal of unwanted hair in the areas of the underarms,<br />

bikini line, legs, chest and face is a painless experience. <strong>The</strong><br />

procedure is recommended to be repeated between four and<br />

six weeks so your skin does not get irritated too much and has<br />

enough time to recover.<br />

Thalion Mineral Booster<br />

In the pristine waters of France, only the richest seaweeds are<br />

used to keep the skin healthy. <strong>The</strong>se seaweeds are processed<br />

within 24 hours of harvesting. This unique know-how as a<br />

harvester enables Thalion to preserve the original qualities<br />

of these plants. With Mineral Booster, Thalion has created<br />

a revolutionary liquid care bursting with water and trace<br />

elements from the sea. This anti-fatigue booster tops up<br />

minerals to moisturise, leaving skin plump and radiant.<br />

79 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE BEAUTY<br />

Packaged For <strong>The</strong> Holidays<br />

Every Christmas, beauty brands come up with creatively-packaged coffret<br />

sets. <strong>The</strong>se are some that caught our attention.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Images courtesy of the respective brands<br />

Les Épures de Parfum Discovery Set<br />

by Cartier<br />

With Les Épures de Parfum, Cartier is celebrating the original<br />

resonance and beauty of living nature. Perfumer Mathilde<br />

Laurent crafted three new perfumes that are inspired by<br />

nature: Pur Muguet, Pur Kinkan and Pur Magnolia. To wear<br />

each feel invigorating and uplifting, which we could all use<br />

in these uncertain times. We can’t pick a favourite, so we<br />

love that this set gives varied fragrance options to suit your<br />

everyday wardrobe.<br />

Eau d’Hadrien, Petite Chérie,<br />

Rose Pompon & Tenue de<br />

Soirée by Annick Goutal<br />

Here’s a travel-friendly set, featuring four iconic olfactory tales.<br />

With Eau d’Hadrien, you can take off for an Italian getaway in the<br />

shade of lemon trees and cypress trees. Petite Chérie tells the tender<br />

combination of lively pear and musky rose while Rose Pompon<br />

celebrates a delicate garden rose adorned with a thousand petals.<br />

Last but not least, Tenue de Soirée recounts the tale of a stolen<br />

moment with sweet cyprus notes.<br />

Vinosource S.O.S Hydration<br />

by Caudalie<br />

This includes Caudalie’s best-selling hydration products,<br />

including a full-sized Vinosource SOS Thirst Quenching<br />

Serum. It works deep down to refresh and hydrate the skin,<br />

whilst the Moisturizing Sorbet helps to soothe and calm the<br />

skin surface. <strong>The</strong>re’s also the Instant Foaming Cleanser, a<br />

soap-free liquid cleanser that turns into a generous, airy foam<br />

for effective cleansing. <strong>The</strong> plastic-free packaging is 100%<br />

recyclable and made with paper from sustainably managed<br />

forests, and printed with plant-based ink.<br />

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YSL Highlight & Glow Gift Set<br />

Create the perfect radiant look with the Touche Éclat illuminating<br />

pen that instantly gives you eight hours of beauty sleep in a click. An<br />

artist’s weapon, Touche Éclat brightens your best facial features to<br />

impart a natural, luminous glow. This set comes with Touche Éclat in<br />

shade 02 and a complimentary mini Rouge Pur Couture in shade 01,<br />

so that you can dress your lips in a sultry red.<br />

Talika Eye Love You Cracker<br />

This cracker contains two of Talika’s most iconic products: Eye <strong>The</strong>rapy Patch and Eye <strong>Dec</strong>ompress.<br />

<strong>The</strong> former is the brand’s best-seller while Eye <strong>Dec</strong>ompress is a unique product that also soothes the<br />

eyes. <strong>The</strong> packaging is designed by French illustrator Florence Balducci, who draws mainly in black and<br />

white using either ink or pencil. This being a product of France, the Eiffel Tower is depicted while the<br />

eye motif is a reminder that this is a specific eye kit.<br />

Clé de Peau Beauté Lipstick Mini Set<br />

From Clé de Peau Beauté comes a collection of vibrant mini lipsticks.<br />

<strong>The</strong> collection embodies the many expressions of the dance of<br />

swans, inspired by classic ballet production Swan Lake. <strong>The</strong> array<br />

of colours – delicate pink, vivid rouge, stunning coral - expresses the<br />

myriad characteristics of the swans. <strong>The</strong> case exterior complements<br />

the interior illustrations, conjuring an evocative image of four white<br />

swans and a single black swan dancing on the lake.<br />

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THE BEAUTY<br />

On A Sensorial Journey<br />

Chase your blues away with these sweet-smelling concoctions,<br />

packaged in beautifully-sculptured bottles.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos courtesy of respective brands<br />

Tom Ford Bitter Peach<br />

Eau De Parfum<br />

<strong>The</strong> latest concoction by Tom Ford contains notes of<br />

intoxicating peche de vigne and Sicilian blood orange oil.<br />

It has a sensual heart of rum infused davana oil, while a<br />

surge of patchouli lures the senses. <strong>The</strong> bottle is designed<br />

with an opaque inner lacquering and translucent outer layer<br />

to provide depth and dimension. Its hue is inspired by the<br />

array of shades at the peach’s luscious center and vintage<br />

coloured glass.<br />

Louis Vuitton California Dream<br />

<strong>The</strong> captivating, sensorial journey of cologne perfumes is<br />

pursued by Louis Vuitton, an unprecedented concept that<br />

illustrates the special marriage of citrusy mist with the<br />

depth of flowers. Its enchanting tryptic includes Sun Song,<br />

a melody on a beautiful day; Cactus Garden, a promenade<br />

across an exotic patio; and Afternoon Swim, a dive<br />

into an ocean of pleasure. Now, California Dream, which<br />

portrays the enchantment of a sunset completes this<br />

luminous collection.<br />

Pasha de Cartier<br />

Eau de Toilette<br />

Launched in 1992, the Pasha de Cartier Eau<br />

de Toilette became the symbol of an era, with<br />

a hedonistic trail that explores all the facets of<br />

lavender. This new edition of the fragrance features<br />

depth and warmth from the addition of amber.<br />

<strong>The</strong> bottle expresses this energy with the brand’s<br />

distinctive codes: the metallic gleam of three bands<br />

encircle the cap while the lid is topped with a blue<br />

cabochon inspired by the winding crown of the<br />

Pasha de Cartier watch.<br />

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diptyque Travel Spray<br />

With its Travel Spray, diptyque invites fans to discover<br />

iconic destinations and explore new ones through a portable<br />

fragrance. <strong>The</strong> bottle is a traveller, taking inspiration from<br />

vintage notice boards that were once in airports and train<br />

stations. <strong>The</strong> ideal travel companion, it is refillable and comes<br />

with a customisation kit. Available in four different emblematic<br />

scents: Do Son, Philosykos, Eau Rose and Eau des Sens.<br />

Lancome Idôle Le Parfum<br />

Sophisticated yet unapologetically modern, this fresh and floral<br />

women’s perfume bursts with notes of citrus, rose, jasmine and<br />

white musk and is layered over a vanilla perfume base. Idôle is<br />

also the world‘s thinnest fragrance bottle. It is encapsulated in a<br />

horizontal silhouette that lays flat on your vanity. Caressed by a<br />

rose-gold-hued structure and centered with a golden sphere, the<br />

iconic bottle embodies female determination.<br />

Giorgio Armani My Way<br />

This feminine fragrance combines consciously sourced<br />

ingredients from around the world in a blend of woody and<br />

floral notes. Bergamot meets Egyptian orange blossom in a<br />

sparkling start amplified by Indian tuberose and jasmine. At<br />

the base, white musk and cedarwood from Virginia combine<br />

with vanilla from Madagascar. Designed to be taken with you<br />

wherever you go, the My Way bottle is a luxurious talisman.<br />

Estee Lauder Beautiful Belle Love<br />

This celebrates the universal emotion of modern love and<br />

modern brides everywhere who dare to break all the rules<br />

for love. A romantic blend of Turkish rose and vanilla, with<br />

notes of luminous amber and orange blossom honey. It’s a<br />

luxurious departure in fragrance for Estee Lauder, inspired by<br />

the union of specially crafted ingredients sourced from the four<br />

corners of the globe. Made in France, Beautiful Belle Love is<br />

pure indulgence.<br />

83 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


CHRISTMAS GIFT<br />

Finding <strong>The</strong> Perfect Present<br />

To help you in your Christmas shopping, we have compiled<br />

a list of gift ideas for him and her.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos courtesy of respective brands<br />

FOR THE LOVELY WOMAN OF YOUR DREAMS<br />

Lululemon Align II<br />

Yoga Pants<br />

When feeling nothing is<br />

everything. Designed to minimise<br />

distractions and maximise<br />

comfort, these lightweight pants<br />

give the wearer full freedom to<br />

move. <strong>The</strong>y are already amongst<br />

the best-selling yoga pants of<br />

the year and if she’s a yoga fan,<br />

she’d already be obsessed with<br />

everything Lululemon. Available<br />

in 15 colours and designs.<br />

https://shop.lululemon.com/<br />

Clash de Cartier<br />

Bracelet<br />

For the woman who appreciates an<br />

edge to her jewellery, Clash de Cartier<br />

is classic yet offbeat, spiky yet soft to<br />

the touch. It is expressed in white gold:<br />

bracelets which can be stacked and<br />

layered, in all versions. Clash boldly<br />

embraces the turquoise nuances of<br />

amazonite, the lagoon blue-toned<br />

beads set amongst yellow gold studs.<br />

www.cartier.com<br />

<strong>The</strong> Shopper Bag<br />

by Cath Kidston London<br />

For Cath Kidston London’s <strong>The</strong> Shopper bag, they have incorporated<br />

Tyvek. It’s a paper-like fabric that is super light, surprisingly strong,<br />

recyclable and water-resistant. <strong>The</strong>re is now a series of eight which<br />

include bright botanicals hand-painted in a modern palette, with a<br />

twist of timeless houndstooth.<br />

www.cathkidston.com.my<br />

Orient Sun & Moon<br />

Function Watches<br />

For the “twinning” couple, timepiece brand Orient has<br />

introduced the new Sun & Moon function series. <strong>The</strong><br />

ladies’ and men’s watches come with matching dial colour,<br />

case and leather strap or metal bracelet. A limited-edition<br />

70th Anniversary commemorative pair has vivid vertical<br />

gradation on a green dial.<br />

www.orient-watch.com<br />

<strong>The</strong> Happiness Planner<br />

In the world we live in today (especially this<br />

past year) we could all use some time to focus<br />

on our happiness. This planner has 100<br />

different happiness challenges that will make<br />

a positive impact on her life. This helpful<br />

book guides the reader through 100 days<br />

of intention-setting and self-development.<br />

Happy vibes and calm moments await.<br />

www.uncommongoods.com<br />

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FOR THE SPECIAL MAN IN YOUR LIFE<br />

Louis Vuitton Horizon<br />

Wireless Earphones<br />

He can enjoy the best experience to stay connected<br />

and listen to music with Louis Vuitton’s state-of-theart<br />

Horizon wireless earphones. <strong>The</strong>se new earphones<br />

showcase the House’s signature details, like the<br />

round metal disc bearing the iconic LV initials or the<br />

Monogram flowers. Available in jet black, pristine<br />

white, bright red, pink or neon yellow.<br />

www.louisvuitton.com<br />

Yeti Rambler Colster<br />

It’s the ultimate beer cooler on the market right now. All he has to<br />

do is screw off the top, drop his favourite canned beverage in there,<br />

screw the cap back on and enjoy. It’ll help keep his drink colder for<br />

way longer. Available in varied colours such as navy blue, black, olive<br />

green, bright blue, red and grey.<br />

https://www.yeti.com<br />

<strong>The</strong> Impossible Collection Of Wine by<br />

Enrico Bernando<br />

A tome that will make a statement with any wine lover. This<br />

hand-bound oversized luxury edition is presented in a wooden crate.<br />

Authored by Enrico Bernardo (named Best Sommelier of the World<br />

in 2004), it covers the most important wines of the twentieth century,<br />

from 1928 Krug Champagne to the 1973 Stag’s Leap Estate SLV.<br />

www.assouline.com<br />

<strong>The</strong>ragun Mini Massager<br />

Cramps, knots, and tension can strike at the most inconvenient<br />

times, and when you are venturing off the beaten path, this mini<br />

massager is right there with you. He can slip it into a jacket pocket<br />

for easy access and a quick calf or shoulder sweep right when he<br />

needs it. Compact and powerful<br />

www.theragun.com<br />

TOD’s T-Club Bag<br />

For the jet-setting man, this spacious bag from TOD’S T-Club<br />

collection is ideal. <strong>The</strong> brand’s Italian spirit is expressed in its way<br />

of making things with extreme care, selecting the finest fabrics with<br />

nonchalance and self-confidence. After all, those who are truly<br />

familiar with the high life celebrate it by living it, not flaunting it.<br />

www.tods.com<br />

85 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE EXPERIENCE<br />

Cinema<br />

OF CHOICE<br />

Aurum <strong>The</strong>atre continues to deliver true cinematic luxury,<br />

despite the pandemic.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos from Golden Screen Cinemas<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

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Getha Lux Suites at the Aurum<strong>The</strong>atre-Mid Valley Southkey<br />

“We continue to do<br />

the same in the new<br />

normal, giving our<br />

customers a fresh<br />

experience every time<br />

they step into the hall<br />

for a movie.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> Jin Gastrobar at the Aurum<strong>The</strong>atre-Mid Valley Southkey<br />

Koh Mei Lee, Chief Executive Officer of GSC<br />

In <strong>Nov</strong>ember last year, Golden Screen Cinemas<br />

(GSC) finally lifted the curtain on its ultra-luxe<br />

boutique cinema Aurum <strong>The</strong>atre at <strong>The</strong> Gardens<br />

Mall Kuala Lumpur. Named after the Latin word<br />

and chemical element representing gold, Aurum<br />

features opulent halls with luxury recliners, private<br />

cabins and bespoke hospitality.<br />

Following Aurum’s successful opening in <strong>The</strong> Gardens<br />

Mall, Mid Valley Southkey, Johor Bahru, the new flagship<br />

established an even higher standard; upping the ante with<br />

seven halls and a private screen for personal bookings and<br />

events. It also has Jin Gastrobar, which offers contemporary<br />

continental dining.<br />

But then the COVID-19 pandemic struck the world.<br />

How has it affected extravagant cinema experiences such as<br />

Aurum? As it celebrates its one year-anniversary, it’s timely to<br />

check on Aurum’s journey thus far.<br />

One Year Later<br />

“It has been an exciting journey for Aurum since we opened<br />

our doors at the end of last year,” enthused Koh Mei Lee,<br />

Chief Executive Officer of GSC. “<strong>The</strong> admissions have been<br />

growing steadily since its opening and we are thrilled to see<br />

that more people appreciate the experience of watching a<br />

movie in true cinematic luxury. Jin Gastrobar is also attracting<br />

its own crowd wanting to wine and dine there.”<br />

Adds Koh: “We have received a lot of good feedback from<br />

our movie-goers who share that once they have experienced<br />

Aurum, it is hard for them to watch movies in a regular cinema<br />

again. As such, we get a lot of repeat customers, who are also<br />

becoming more accustomed to dining at Jin before watching<br />

their movie – making it a complete cinematic experience,<br />

comprising food, comfort and service.”<br />

Of the impact caused by COVID-19, Koh says:<br />

“<strong>The</strong> pandemic has put many businesses including GSC<br />

under considerable financial strain. Industry admissions have<br />

declined by more than 80% year-on-year (vs. 2019), due<br />

to the lack of content as many tentpole movies have been<br />

postponed to 2021 and beyond. As we launched Aurum in<br />

<strong>Nov</strong>ember last year, we do not have year-on-year numbers to<br />

comparatively gauge the impact of the pandemic on luxury<br />

cinema.”<br />

87 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE EXPERIENCE<br />

Poster Corridor at <strong>The</strong> Gardens Mall<br />

Flatbread Pizza<br />

<strong>The</strong> Mixologist<br />

Sizzling Prawns<br />

“When we reopened in July<br />

after the Movement Control<br />

Order (MCO), we noticed that<br />

more movie-goers choose to watch<br />

movies at Aurum because of its<br />

exclusivity. In fact, during the<br />

screening of Tenet and Mulan,<br />

admissions at Aurum was 45%<br />

higher than pre-coronavirus, the<br />

only cinema which was performing<br />

better after the lockdown.”<br />

Although Aurum has its<br />

regular clientele, Koh says it is<br />

challenging as celluloid content is<br />

scarce during this time. “However, Gintonica<br />

because we have Jin Gastrobar,<br />

there is an opportunity for us to hold non-movie events.<br />

Additionally, we get many corporate and private bookings for<br />

the dining experience.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> New Normal Of Cinema<br />

“From day one, our SOPs included cleaning measures that<br />

were unique to Aurum, due to its use of luxury recliners,<br />

pillows and other amenities that are not<br />

available at our regular GSC cinemas,”<br />

explains Koh. This includes the changing of<br />

mattress sheets and pillow covers, as well as<br />

the replacement of blankets and disposable<br />

slippers after every show.<br />

“We continue to do the same in the<br />

new normal, giving our customers a fresh<br />

experience every time they step into the<br />

hall for a movie. More than that, we have<br />

implemented other hygiene and cleaning<br />

measures in line with government SOPs<br />

including temperature checking, contact<br />

tracing, enhanced cleaning and regular<br />

sanitisation after every screening, wearing of<br />

face masks as part of daily operations and<br />

provision of alcohol rubs in common areas,” adds Koh.<br />

On lessons learnt from the lockdown, Koh muses: “One<br />

of the biggest lessons is that businesses must be agile and evolve<br />

to stay alive. Survival requires us to adapt to stay ahead of the<br />

new normal; diversifying to break new ground. We were lucky<br />

to have started on this before the pandemic; embarking on<br />

several initiatives to expand our revenue streams in view of<br />

the fast-changing theatrical landscape.”<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

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Getha Lux Suites at <strong>The</strong> Gardens Mall<br />

A successful initiative for Aurum has been its restaurant<br />

and bar, Jin Gastrobar. “Serving all-day meals, cocktails and<br />

much more, Jin is gaining popularity as a lunch and dinner<br />

spot, as well as a place to get drinks after work. <strong>The</strong>re are also<br />

plans to start cafes in some GSC locations soon, which will<br />

allow us to venture into the F&B market and complete the<br />

lifestyle experience of movie going.”<br />

Offline and online merchandising is another area which<br />

will be tapped into. “We have recently started our very own<br />

e-commerce platform, Keepsake and have sold our own<br />

collection of “Hello. Cannot.” T-shirts that have been very<br />

popular with customers.”<br />

To mitigate and reduce the impact of the pandemic,<br />

the management of Aurum applied stringent cost control and<br />

cashflow management with the cutting of all non-essential<br />

spending. “We also focused on improving on staff efficiency<br />

in the cinema and maximising screening times, so more<br />

movies and showtimes are available to our customers during<br />

peak hours.”<br />

In regard to highlights of the past year, Koh says:<br />

“Most of our highlights came after we reopened in July. We<br />

had our very first stand-up comedy show ‘Hello. Cannot.<br />

Kam’ at Jin Gastrobar. It was hosted by Malaysia’s Queen<br />

of Comedy, Joanne Kam and Steven Bones, and it was<br />

completely sold out!”<br />

“We also held a wine tasting event for M. Chapoutier<br />

wines. Recently, there was a charity bazaar and art exhibit for<br />

our ‘We Are All Special’ autism awareness campaign, which<br />

was supported by four artists with autism.”<br />

Exciting Plans Ahead<br />

During this period when social distancing is key and people are<br />

avoiding crowds, Aurum aims to be the cinema of choice in<br />

view of its exclusivity and lower seating capacity. “Our focus is<br />

to enable customers to discover the luxury cinema experience.<br />

With this, we are running a host of promotions and offerings,”<br />

says Koh. From now until the end of the year, one can watch a<br />

movie at Aurum at ‘special’ prices (from RM70 onwards). All<br />

seats also come with a selection of F&B from Jin.<br />

Escape Studio I - Hygge Hall, <strong>The</strong> Scandinavian concept of comfort<br />

Always a warm welcome at Aurum<br />

“Continuing in the vein of what we have done this year,<br />

we have a lot of exciting plans for Aurum next year to make it<br />

a premier cinematic destination that accommodates cinemagoers<br />

for more than just movies,” adds Koh.<br />

“Building on the success of ‘Hello. Cannot. Kam’, we<br />

have plans to organise regular live performances including<br />

music and stand-up comedy, where admissions will be<br />

bundled together with food from Jin. We are also exploring<br />

the possibility of interactive experiences, which will be offered<br />

alongside dining,” concludes Koh.<br />

For more details, visit www.gsc.com.my<br />

89 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


GAME CHANGER<br />

A<br />

Perfect<br />

Fit<br />

Oxwhite made a name for itself by<br />

disrupting the dress shirt market.<br />

Meet the man behind the brand.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos from Oxwhite<br />

CK Chang is the man behind OxWhite<br />

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OxWhite’s signature white shirt<br />

As an entrepreneur and frequent<br />

traveller, CK Chang’s biggest<br />

struggle was finding a dress shirt<br />

that fit well on his slim physique.<br />

While wandering London’s<br />

famous Savile Row, he splurged on<br />

the most expensive shirt he would ever own - and it<br />

changed his entire look. “For the first time, I understood<br />

what perfect fit really meant. I could tell that this madeto-measure<br />

shirt and the confidence it gave me would<br />

be the key for me to tip the scales in my success, life and<br />

business,” he recalls.<br />

In June 2018, Chang launched the Oxwhite Classic<br />

White Shirt which he spent two years perfecting. “It<br />

was inspired by that shirt I bought on Savile Row, so<br />

that I can share the magic of that perfect fit at a price<br />

all office workers can afford.”<br />

He likens Oxwhite’s business model to budget<br />

airline AirAsia. “We are relevant to the average Asian<br />

in that sense. If everyone can afford to fly with AirAsia,<br />

everyone can afford to look and feel good at Oxwhite,”<br />

explains Chang.<br />

A Progressive Growth<br />

In just two years since its launch, Oxwhite has seen<br />

a progressive growth. “Our journey so far has been<br />

exciting! <strong>The</strong> support from our customers has been<br />

amazing. Because of that support, our operation team<br />

91 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


GAME CHANGER<br />

Slim fit polo tee<br />

OxWhite also offers backpacks<br />

Unisex Basics<br />

has grown from three persons to more than 20 now,”<br />

enthuses Chang. “Our customer base has very quickly<br />

surpassed 80,000 and we have sold over 400,000 items<br />

on Oxwhite and delivered them to 101 cities!”<br />

In his own unique way, Chang is considered the<br />

game changer in his industry. From the beginning,<br />

he embarked on a mission to disrupt the dress shirt<br />

market and improve men’s wardrobe, and he has<br />

succeeded admirably. “Oxwhite has made looking and<br />

feeling good more realistic for the average Malaysian,<br />

regardless of his wallet size!” muses Chang.<br />

“In the fashion and apparel segments, not only<br />

have we customised our sizing to fit the average Asian<br />

physique, we have also applied the same fabric and<br />

workmanship of expensive brands. On top of that, the<br />

pricing which starts from RM19 is affordable to most<br />

Malaysians. In the household essentials segment, we are<br />

big on sustainability. We use high quality hypoallergenic<br />

botanical extracts and raw materials,” adds Chang.<br />

Overcoming <strong>The</strong> Pandemic<br />

How did Chang and his company cope with the<br />

coronavirus pandemic? “<strong>The</strong> Movement Control Order<br />

(MCO) was unprecedented. No one had expected it.<br />

Within a short period of time, borders were closed and<br />

people were urged to adapt to a new normal where<br />

almost everyone started working from home and shop<br />

online,” says Chang.<br />

“Many factories around the world rely on China<br />

for certain parts and raw materials. We were in a way<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

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“Oxwhite has<br />

made looking and<br />

feeling good more<br />

realistic for the<br />

average Malaysian,<br />

regardless of his<br />

wallet size!”<br />

lucky that we had expanded our products and increased<br />

our inventory size before Chinese New Year with the<br />

expectation that factories in China will be closed for a<br />

month. As such, even though shipment from factories<br />

all over Asia were affected due to border closures, we<br />

still had a good inventory size to keep the business<br />

going during MCO and the months after.”<br />

As people familiar with Oxwhite knows, the<br />

Supima cotton dress shirt is the brand’s hero product.<br />

“In a new normal where people were staying at home<br />

most of the time, there is little to no reason to buy dress<br />

shirts,” says Chang. “Our team was quick to realise this<br />

and responded swiftly. We started ramping up on the<br />

promotion of stay-at-home essential products such as<br />

T-shirts, polo shirts, inner wear and bamboo towels.<br />

This quick action helped us. As such, our business<br />

actually increased threefold during the MCO!”<br />

Biggest Lessons Learnt<br />

“Our customers are a big part of Oxwhite’s success<br />

story. We have an average returning customer rate of<br />

48%. If there is anything I learnt from the pandemic<br />

is that our engaged customers are the engine that kept<br />

the business going during the tough times. We have<br />

a community of over 23,000 fans and a social media<br />

following of over 120,000 people.”<br />

“As the founder, I personally would engage with<br />

the community to have a good sense of what they want<br />

and their lifestyle needs. <strong>The</strong>se insights gathered are key<br />

decision factors when it comes to product development<br />

and new launches.” In terms of how he has adapted<br />

to the new normal, Chang replies: “Personally, I have<br />

become more health conscious and want to ensure that<br />

my team and family are well taken care of.”<br />

Boyfriend shirt for women<br />

93 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


GAME CHANGER<br />

“Have a very open<br />

mind and heart in<br />

your approach towards<br />

learning and always<br />

remain humble”<br />

<strong>The</strong> Year Ahead<br />

“With the ongoing fight against the pandemic globally<br />

still far from over, we are gearing ourselves to be<br />

prepared for just about anything,” says Chang. “Hence,<br />

we remain cautiously optimistic. As a company, we will<br />

continue to produce good quality products and expand<br />

the range of designs of our current bestsellers, variety<br />

of our SKU (stock keeping unit) and introduce new<br />

categories of products for our customers.”<br />

Where growing Oxwhite is concerned, Chang<br />

says: “As a business, we want to make sure that we<br />

are growing healthily therefore we monitor our profit<br />

margins closely. In terms of marketing, we are cautious<br />

with where we spend our money and we cut back on<br />

things that drive very low conversion rates and high<br />

acquisition cost for us.”<br />

What is he not cutting back on? “We want all our<br />

customers to look good and feel good at a price point<br />

that they can afford. In order for someone to look and<br />

feel good, two things are key: quality and comfort. We<br />

firmly believe that high quality products - material and<br />

workmanship - and comfort can give one an instant<br />

confidence lift to enable them to feel good. When you<br />

feel good, you look good. Such is the DNA of our brand<br />

and we will never cut back on these two key factors.”<br />

What advice would he give to young people who<br />

want to follow in his footsteps? “As an entrepreneur,<br />

the willingness to learn is very important. <strong>The</strong>re is<br />

always an opportunity to learn within your circle.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are a lot of people around you that could inspire<br />

you or teach you. Have a very open mind and heart<br />

in your approach towards learning and always remain<br />

humble,” concludes Chang.<br />

Chang in one of his own creations.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

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Thai Healing Experience”


HEALTH & WELLNESS<br />

WAYS TO IMPROVE OUR<br />

Wellbeing<br />

In these uncertain times, we<br />

need to stay positive and<br />

embrace the challenges,<br />

according to wellness<br />

personality Jojo Struys.<br />

Text by William KC Kee<br />

Photos from Jojo Struys/Pexels<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

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In person, Jojo Struys is the epitome of poise and calmness.<br />

“How positively you start your day, and with consistency, can<br />

change your life,” says the renowned wellness personality and<br />

regional TV host. That is ace advice coming from the founder<br />

of OhanaJo Studio, the largest yoga and sound healing space in<br />

Malaysia.<br />

Her fortitude was put to the test by the coronavirus pandemic and<br />

resulting Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia. Like many<br />

companies, Struys’ studio was forced to close its doors for the entire<br />

duration of MCO, with zero income for three months.<br />

Fortunately, she found other avenues to grow and has no doubt<br />

emerged from the experience wiser and stronger. She shares her<br />

journey thus far and tips on how to improve one’s wellbeing.<br />

How do you feel about OhanaJo Studio’s journey?<br />

OhanaJo was fully brick and mortar until the MCO forced us to go<br />

digital, almost overnight. We served over 100 free classes by donations<br />

during the lockdown across Facebook, Instagram and Zoom until we<br />

started to build our own subscription platform. We always had plans<br />

to go digital anyway but I don’t think we’d have made the transition<br />

so fast. For this, I’m grateful, though it was a very challenging period<br />

How has the pandemic affected your business?<br />

We were closed down for the entirety of MCO, with many workshops<br />

and events cancelled. So, it was pretty harsh with zero income coming<br />

in for three months as I was fully on ground as a business before the<br />

pandemic hit.<br />

However, we grew in other ways by increasing our engagement<br />

online. We had letters of gratitude from our students for continuing<br />

to conduct classes online so we could keep up with their daily<br />

habits and routine. We started to build a community beyond just<br />

the neighbourhood we were serving. Once you go digital, you are<br />

essentially borderless.<br />

What are the actions you’ve taken to improve the<br />

situation?<br />

I’ve just hired three more people this month. We are expanding into<br />

digital offerings so despite a dismal back balance, coming out of the<br />

MCO, I’m investing forward as I truly believe in what we are doing.<br />

It’s been really encouraging to hear people share how much their life<br />

has changed or improved from the work we are doing.<br />

How have you adapted to the new normal?<br />

I have learnt so much more about the wonders and challenges of<br />

being online. It makes the world feel connected somehow, no matter<br />

where you are. At the same time, human connection is priceless so we<br />

have opened our doors again. We are now both on ground and online.<br />

What are the biggest lessons you learnt this past year?<br />

Stay flexible. Adapt to whatever is coming your way. Do not fear<br />

change. Embrace it. Let go of any fear you have and get out from<br />

your comfort zone.<br />

97 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


HEALTH & WELLNESS<br />

In what ways are yoga and sound healing beneficial?<br />

We are more of a healing space so people seek us out if they are having<br />

stress and anxiety or they simply want more “me-time” or relaxation.<br />

We offer yoga, sound healing and meditation, with some sessions even<br />

getting you to journal your emotions so you know what’s really going<br />

on within you. Many people have accessed different states of inner<br />

peace, self-awareness or relaxation through our uniquely therapeutic<br />

sessions.<br />

Sometimes, people get a completely different perspective on<br />

their lives from their own meditation, which can be very healing and<br />

insightful. Our classes can help to calm and clear the mind, with some<br />

sessions also focused on achieving better quality sleep at night, or tools<br />

to release your daily stress.<br />

In what ways are you considered a game changer in<br />

your field?<br />

We were one of the first studios in Malaysia to incorporate the power<br />

of sound healing and combine them with yoga and meditation<br />

sessions. We are very differentiated from gyms as we have such deeply<br />

introspective and relaxing sessions because we are not only focused on<br />

your physical fitness but also your mental and emotional wellbeing.<br />

We are also non-religious so there is a universal sense of existing as a<br />

safe space, where anyone can come to discover more about themselves<br />

or to release what no longer serves them. So, people from all walks of<br />

life find us.<br />

What are your plans for 2021?<br />

We are about to launch an online platform to help people with their<br />

stress, anxiety and sleep issues. We are also rolling out masterclasses<br />

and an online academy for one’s personal and spiritual growth and<br />

overall wellbeing.<br />

What advice would you give to young people who want<br />

to follow in your footsteps?<br />

Follow your heart and believe in what you put your energy into,<br />

because energy is everything. Be authentic. Do what you love and love<br />

what you do.<br />

Can you provide tips on how we can improve our<br />

wellbeing in these uncertain times?<br />

Practice gratitude every day. Focus on what you have rather than what<br />

you don’t have. Find ways to be more present whether it’s through<br />

movement or meditation. Let go of the past because it robs you of<br />

a present moment. Develop a morning regimen. How positively you<br />

start your day, and with consistency, can change your life.<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

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HOME DELIVERY<br />

AVAILABLE


THE DISHES | DRINKS<br />

<strong>The</strong> gorgeous Hennessy X.O decanter designed by Frank Gehry<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

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One<br />

ofA KIND<br />

Iconic labels have been innovative<br />

and edgy in their special offerings<br />

this past year.<br />

Text by Patsy Kam<br />

Photos courtesy of the respective brands<br />

It is always exciting to see how iconic<br />

labels have evolved to reflect the times, yet<br />

maintained age-old traditions in the making<br />

of their spirits.<br />

Here’s a glance at some of their unique<br />

selections as <strong>2020</strong> draws to a close.<br />

Master’s Touch<br />

<strong>The</strong> iconic Hennessy X.O decanter has been given a<br />

special makeover to mark its 150 th anniversary. Worldrenowned<br />

architect Frank Gehry has reinterpreted the<br />

bottle in gold and glass in a unique collaboration with<br />

the Hennessy Maison.<br />

While designing the bottle, he took into account<br />

the rich customs, composition and art of distillation<br />

of Hennessy X.O as well as Hennessy Maison’s rich<br />

heritage.<br />

<strong>The</strong> decanter is enveloped in a crinkled sleeve<br />

of 24-carat gold-dipped bronze and encased by a<br />

fractured glass glorifier, evoking the movement of<br />

water as it reflects the light.<br />

As a finishing touch, Gehry has added an<br />

understated fusil made of brass and gold for<br />

extracting the cognac. <strong>The</strong> collectible set of decanter,<br />

glorifier and fusil is packaged in a protective case<br />

made of compressed cardboard – homage to a series<br />

of corrugated cardboard furniture Gehry designed in<br />

the 1970s – imprinted with Gehry’s signature.<br />

Only a limited run of 150 numbered decanters<br />

with Gehry’s signature is available. A wider release of<br />

limited-edition Hennessy X.O bottles also by Gehry is<br />

available in markets worldwide.<br />

101 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE DISHES | DRINKS<br />

Some of the priced vintages from the Beaulieu Vineyard<br />

New World Wines<br />

Beaulieu Vineyard, one of the most historic Napa Valley<br />

wineries in the United States, has joined the prestigious La<br />

Place De Bordeaux.<br />

Considered one of the most effective systems to market<br />

and distribute fine wines to global audiences, La Place de<br />

Bordeaux is a four-century-old historic distribution system in<br />

the Bordeaux region in France.<br />

Each September, new vintages of an exclusive group<br />

of fine wines are released. This year, only three New World<br />

Wines have been introduced, including the Beaulieu Vineyard<br />

2017 Georges de Latour Private Reserve.<br />

Named in its founder’s honour, Beaulieu Vineyard<br />

(BV)’s first vintage of Private Reserve became the first<br />

release of Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet<br />

Sauvignon 1936, later recognised as Napa Valley’s first “cult”<br />

Cabernet.<br />

Legendary winemaker André Tchelistcheff led the<br />

winemaking team at Beaulieu for more than 40 vintages.<br />

Currently, winemaker Trevor Durling, only the fifth in BV’s<br />

history, carries on the tradition.<br />

<strong>The</strong> BV 2017 Georges de Latour Private Reserve<br />

Cabernet Sauvignon is available via La Place de Bordeaux<br />

outside of the United States, Canada, Caribbean and Norway.<br />

Best Of Vintages<br />

Penfolds has released a new wine, blended from four vintages<br />

of Grange, named Penfolds g4. <strong>The</strong> blend entwines Grange<br />

DNA from the exceptional 2002, 2004, 2008 and 2016<br />

vintages.<br />

Each vintage component was<br />

carefully selected for the final g4 blend.<br />

<strong>The</strong> cooler-vintage 2002 Grange is<br />

highly defined while the 2004 Grange<br />

is relatively opulent in comparison.<br />

<strong>The</strong> 2008 Grange, awarded a perfect<br />

100 points by both Wine Spectator and<br />

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, is big<br />

and bold while the 2016 Grange offers<br />

its own textural imprint.<br />

<strong>The</strong> first style of this inimitable<br />

wine, Penfolds g3 - a blend of 2008,<br />

2012 and 2014 - was released in 2017.<br />

Created with the same philosophy, the<br />

Penfolds g4 is the second release and an<br />

evolution of the original concept. <strong>The</strong><br />

final Penfolds g5 will be in 2021.<br />

Only 2,500 bottles of Penfolds g4<br />

will be available around the world.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Penfolds g4 giftbox<br />

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Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1996<br />

Limited Edition<br />

Glenmorangie’s whisky-makers have come up with a limited<br />

edition Glenmorangie Grand Vintage Malt 1996, the oldest<br />

whisky matured in Glenmorangie’s bespoke casks, aged for<br />

23 years.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Highland whisky makers journeyed to the forests<br />

on Missouri’s Ozark Mountains in the United States where<br />

American white oaks were handpicked. Air-dried and<br />

handcrafted into casks and seasoned with select bourbon, the<br />

first bespoke casks were ready by 1996.<br />

Each year since then, Dr Bill Lumsden, director of<br />

Whisky Creation, Glenmorangie, has crafted these bespoke<br />

casks in small numbers. He also created two coveted releases<br />

of the limited-edition Glenmorangie Astar and the heart of<br />

Glenmorangie Original.<br />

Aged entirely in first-fill casks, the Grand Vintage Malt<br />

1996 has a unique, creamy depth and a fruity, floral intensity.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Clicquot limited Tape Edition<br />

Retro Celebration<br />

Veuve Clicquot has gone retro in celebration of the House’s<br />

prevailing love of beautiful objects. <strong>The</strong> new Clicquot Tape<br />

limited edition is based on the iconic audiocassette from the<br />

1970s and 80s.<br />

In its heyday, the cassette tape represented a powerful<br />

vector for personal expression. This was the same notion that<br />

inspired the Clicquot Tape.<br />

<strong>The</strong> collection of six bold and eye-catching retro designs<br />

features the House’s iconic yellow, as well as disco, iridescent<br />

and zebra motifs.<br />

103 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE DISHES | DINING<br />

Feast<br />

FOR ALL<br />

In the heart of Georgetown,<br />

Penang Kitchen stands out<br />

as a gastronomical delight.<br />

TEA-FIN at tea time set<br />

Wild Forest Mushroom Soup<br />

Offering feasts fit for friends and<br />

family within a chic venue, Penang<br />

Kitchen serves up a medley of<br />

mouth-watering Penangite favourites<br />

and international delights inspired<br />

by the unique blend of local<br />

cultures - Malay, Nyonya, Chinese, Indian - and<br />

international cuisines.<br />

Located on the ground floor of Courtyard by<br />

Marriott Penang, Penang Kitchen offers scrumptious<br />

daily breakfast and an all-day dining menu designed for<br />

efficient and quick lunches for the business and leisure<br />

travellers. With an open-kitchen layout, the menu ranges<br />

from local favourites to signature dishes such as Prawn<br />

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Grilled Double Char Siew Lamb Chops<br />

Claypot Lamb Shank Biryani<br />

Kerabu Salad, Chunky Satay Chicken Pizza, Char Siew<br />

Lamb Chop, Wild Forest Mushroom Soup and more to<br />

tantalise your taste buds and awaken your senses.<br />

Penang Kitchen is also known for its quirky TEA-FIN<br />

during tea time. <strong>The</strong> local and Nyonya culture in Penang<br />

inspired TEA-FIN, a combination of high tea and tiffin.<br />

Showcasing the heritage of Penang, the sweet and savoury<br />

snacks are served in a three-tier Nyonya tiffin decorated in<br />

colourful enamel paint. <strong>The</strong> high tea set is something that<br />

you should try out!<br />

<strong>The</strong> high tea includes Spicy Crab Meat in Pie Tie Cup,<br />

Sambal Chilli Ikan Bilis in Mantou (Spicy Anchovy In Bun),<br />

Curry Chicken With Potatoes, Finger Sandwiches, Wok<br />

Fried Rice Noodles With Seafood, Chana Masala Vadai With<br />

Chutney, a selection of Nyonya Kueh and Vanilla Scones<br />

With Kaya And Pandan Mascarpone. <strong>The</strong> set includes a<br />

selection of beverages such as Teh Tarik (Malaysian sweet<br />

pulled tea), Masala Chai Tea and a selection of freshly<br />

brewed coffee or tea.<br />

Priced at RM99 nett for 2 pax, the Tea-Fin<br />

at Tea Time set is available from 2.30PM to<br />

5.30pm daily. Marriott Bonvoy members enjoy<br />

a 10% discount upon signing up - it’s free!<br />

Wild Ginger Flower Chicken Rendang<br />

Email: cy.pency@courtyard.com<br />

ABOUT COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT PENANG<br />

Prawn Kerabu Salad<br />

Located in the heart of Penang’s UNESCO-listed George Town,<br />

Courtyard by Marriott Penang is steps away from local attractions,<br />

stunning architectures, unique cultural heritage and artistic street murals. Opened<br />

in September this year, the hotel is currently one of the newest hotels in Penang.<br />

<strong>The</strong> first Courtyard to open in Malaysia and the 17th Marriott International brand<br />

in the country, Courtyard by Marriott Penang features 199 rooms and suites, an<br />

outdoor infinity pool with pool bar, steam and sauna room, a 24-hour fitness centre,<br />

a pillarless ballroom, eight state-of the art meeting rooms, one VIP room and the<br />

island’s first and only distillery-themed bar - Gin Library.<br />

Char Kway Teow<br />

105 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE DISHES | DINING<br />

Up close &<br />

Personal<br />

At Nobu Kuala Lumpur, guests get to enjoy a live<br />

cooking experience at their table.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos from Nobu Kuala Lumpur<br />

Chef's Menu by Nobu KL<br />

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“We’re looking to showcase our<br />

high standards of preparation<br />

and detail that goes into every<br />

dish served through the live<br />

cooking experience”<br />

Enhance your experience with meals prepared in front of you.<br />

If you’re wondering what goes into making your<br />

culinary experience a delectable one, consider your<br />

curiosity satiated at this restaurant. For its elevated<br />

dining experience titled ‘Chef ’s Menu by Nobu<br />

Kuala Lumpur’, select courses are cooked right at<br />

your table.<br />

This is all part of Nobu Kuala Lumpur’s drive to make<br />

waves – which it has for the past few months – with its buy-1-<br />

free-1 promotion that offer guests unparalleled value. As such,<br />

the restaurant wanted to go above and beyond by offering<br />

world-renowned dishes with a first-class experience.<br />

For the uninitiated, the world-renowned Japanese<br />

restaurant is recognised for pioneering a new-style Japanese<br />

cuisine, started as a business partnership in 1994 between<br />

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and his partners: actor Robert De<br />

Niro, producer Meir Teper and restaurateur Drew Nieporent.<br />

Originating in New York as the flagship restaurant, the<br />

Nobu brand is now an empire that spans across five continents,<br />

with international locations in London, Tokyo, Hong Kong,<br />

Milan, Melbourne, Dubai, Cape Town, Moscow, Budapest,<br />

Monte Carlo and Kuala Lumpur. <strong>The</strong> restaurants’ popularity<br />

and devoted following are a tribute to Matsuhisa’s innovation<br />

in traditional Japanese cooking.<br />

<strong>The</strong> new and improved Chef ’s Menu by Nobu Kuala<br />

Lumpur offers six courses featuring premium dishes such as<br />

Grilled Angus Beef Tenderloin and Alaskan King Crab.<br />

“Since introducing this promotion, many of our guests<br />

have communicated their appreciation for making Nobu more<br />

<strong>The</strong> final touchs on Alaskan King Crab with Creamy Spicy Sauce<br />

A must-try is the personalised Nobu style of sushi.<br />

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THE DISHES | DINING<br />

Grilled Angus Beef Tenderloin delectably paired with Buckwheat ‘Risotto’.<br />

Chef's Zensai, starter courses of small dishes specially prepared by the Nobu team.<br />

Alaskan King Crab with Creamy Spicy Sauce<br />

Chocolate Sphere made from White Chocolate Dome, Yogurt Mousse and Orange Curd<br />

with Matcha Chocolate Sauce<br />

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Moriawase that comprises a succulent serving of Oyster drizzled with Nobu Sauce, charred cuts of tender Bonito Tataki Matsuhisa<br />

accessible to them,” said Executive<br />

Chef Philip Leong.<br />

“We’re so grateful for the<br />

response we’ve been receiving and<br />

felt the need to follow it up with<br />

a unique experience that would<br />

be even more memorable for our<br />

guests. We’re looking to showcase<br />

our high standards of preparation<br />

and detail that goes into every dish<br />

served through the live cooking<br />

experience,” added Leong.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> reception we’ve been<br />

getting has been incredible and<br />

we’re thrilled that we’ve been able to<br />

serve so many new guests who have<br />

since become regulars,” enthused<br />

Head Sushi Chef Chico.<br />

“Part of why I love my job<br />

is because I get to serve worldrenowned<br />

Japanese-Peruvian cuisine while getting to know<br />

amazing guests. <strong>The</strong> live cooking experience further allows<br />

us to do that by offering an authentic and memorable dining<br />

experience” he added.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Chef ’s Menu by Nobu Kuala Lumpur begins with<br />

a Moriawase that comprises a succulent serving of Oyster<br />

drizzled with Nobu Sauce, charred cuts of tender Bonito<br />

Tataki Matsuhisa and the mouth-watering earthy notes of the<br />

Tai Truffle Dry Miso.<br />

Nobu Style Sushi, meticulously prepared right at your table.<br />

As appetiser, the Chef ’s Zensai<br />

set the tone for the dining experience<br />

with a starter course of small dishes<br />

specially prepared by the Nobu<br />

team. This is followed by the Nobu<br />

Style Sushi, handpicked by Head<br />

Sushi Chef Chico and meticulously<br />

prepared at your table.<br />

For the main course, the live<br />

dining experience is further enhanced<br />

with the Alaskan King Crab coated<br />

with Creamy Spicy Sauce cooked<br />

right in front of you. <strong>The</strong> next main<br />

course is the tender melt-in-yourmouth<br />

serving of Grilled Angus Beef<br />

Tenderloin delectably paired with<br />

Buckwheat ‘Risotto’.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Chef ’s Menu by Nobu<br />

Kuala Lumpur comes full circle with<br />

the Chocolate Sphere made from<br />

White Chocolate Dome, Yogurt Mousse and Orange Curd<br />

with Matcha Chocolate Sauce, to end the meal on a sweet<br />

note.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Chef ’s Menu by Nobu Kuala Lumpur is priced at<br />

RM398++ for two and available from now till 30 <strong>Nov</strong>ember.<br />

<strong>The</strong> live cooking experience is only showcased during dinner<br />

service.<br />

For reservations, call 03 2164 5084.<br />

109 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE DRIVE<br />

A Symbol Of<br />

Innovation<br />

<strong>The</strong> newest Ferrari supercar features advanced technologies<br />

developed in its hometown in Italy.<br />

Text by Patsy Kam<br />

Photos courtesy of Naza Italia<br />

Living up to its tagline “Dare to Dream”,<br />

Ferrari has introduced its most powerful<br />

‘Prancing Horse’ in its stable to date, the<br />

SF90 Stradale.<br />

Unveiled by Naza Italia, the official<br />

importer and distributor of the Ferrari<br />

brand in Malaysia, the SF90 Stradale encapsulates the most<br />

advanced technologies developed in its home in Maranello,<br />

Italy.<br />

<strong>The</strong> name “SF90” references the 90th anniversary<br />

of the foundation of Scuderia Ferrari and “Stradale”<br />

(translated as road) highlights the distinct link between<br />

Ferrari’s track and road cars.<br />

Regarded a symbol of innovation, growth and<br />

adaptation, the SF90 Stradale is the first series production<br />

PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) to combine<br />

conventional and electrical power sources.<br />

It delivers 1,000 cv and a weight-to-power ratio of 1.57<br />

kg/cv and 390 kg of downforce at 250 km/h, elevating the<br />

model to the top of its segment.<br />

<strong>The</strong> SF90 Stradale houses a 90° V8 turbo engine,<br />

capable of delivering 780 cv, the highest power output<br />

of any 8-cylinder in Ferrari history. <strong>The</strong> remaining 220<br />

cv is delivered by three electric motors, two of which are<br />

independent and located on the front axle, with the third at<br />

the rear between the engine and the gearbox.<br />

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111 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE DRIVE<br />

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<strong>The</strong> first Ferrari sports car to be equipped with 4WD, the<br />

hybrid powertrain sets a new benchmark for standing starts<br />

at 0-100km/h in 2.5 sec and 0-200km/h in just 6.7 seconds.<br />

Ferrari engineers also introduced the RAC-e (electronic<br />

cornering set-up regulator), integrated into the car’s vehicle<br />

dynamics controls, governing the distribution of torque and<br />

making driving on the limit much simpler and easier.<br />

Sporting a completely redesigned 8-speed, oil-bath,<br />

dual-clutch transmission, the SF90 Stradale has an additional<br />

steering wheel-mounted selector, dubbed the eManettino. It<br />

provides four different power unit management modes: the allelectric<br />

eDrive, the default-setting Hybrid which manages the<br />

power to optimise the overall system efficiency, Performance<br />

which prioritises charging the battery instead of efficiency<br />

and Qualify, favouring performance over battery charging for<br />

maximum power output.<br />

With its innovative shut-off Gurney, a patented active<br />

system which regulates the air flow over the upper body, drag<br />

at high speeds is reduced with low lateral dynamics loads and<br />

downforce in corners increased, under braking and during<br />

directional changes.<br />

For the exterior, Ferrari’s designers have revised the<br />

proportions of the front, central and rear volumes for a<br />

forward-looking, innovative visage. Inside, the cockpit has<br />

an entirely new design direction, which will carry over into<br />

Ferrari’s entire future range. <strong>The</strong> chassis and bodyshell is all<br />

new, built using multi-material technology such as carbon fibre.<br />

<strong>The</strong> aeronautically-inspired cockpit adopts a sleek,<br />

minimalist look with Ferrari’s “hands-on-the-wheel”<br />

philosophy taking on a central role. <strong>The</strong>re is a new<br />

16-inch curved high-definition digital instrument cluster<br />

with an updated Human-Machine Interface. <strong>The</strong> driver<br />

can virtually control every aspect of the car, thanks to the<br />

touchpad and a series of haptic buttons on the steering wheel.<br />

On the central tunnel, the automatic gearbox controls<br />

are selected by a grille-style feature that references Ferrari’s<br />

legendary manual gear-shift gate.<br />

<strong>The</strong> redesigned intake and exhaust system feature<br />

a new, narrower cylinder head with a central injector<br />

and the adoption of 350-bar GDI, another first for a<br />

Ferrari V8.<br />

Clients can choose between the standard car and<br />

a more sports-oriented version. <strong>The</strong> Assetto Fiorano<br />

specification includes significant upgrades such as special<br />

GT racing-derived Multimatic shock absorbers, high<br />

downforce carbon-fibre rear and Michelin Pilot Sport<br />

Cup2 tyres.<br />

Traditional controls include the classic steering-wheel<br />

mounted headlight control, windscreen wipers, indicators<br />

and the Manettino for driving modes.<br />

What price for this hybrid supercar? Starting from the<br />

base price of RM1,908,000 (before duties, customisation<br />

options, taxes and insurance), the Ferrari SF90 Stradale<br />

comes with an extended seven-year maintenance programme,<br />

available across the entire Ferrari range.<br />

<strong>The</strong> introduction of the Ferrari SF90 Stradale was held<br />

at Ferrari’s newly renovated flagship showroom in Petaling<br />

Jaya to mark its opening. Meant to reflect the brand’s<br />

new corporate identity, the refreshed showroom provides<br />

a taste of “la dolce vita” with its immersive experience.<br />

A total of RM3.5 million was spent on the refurbishment<br />

of the 11,900 sq ft showroom which can accommodate<br />

up to seven cars. It is among the first few in Southeast Asia<br />

to implement these new design considerations.<br />

113 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE VACATION<br />

Of <strong>The</strong><br />

Days<br />

Gone<br />

By<br />

Guests who walk through the<br />

doors of this hotel take a piece<br />

of nostalgia back with them.<br />

Text by William K.C. Kee<br />

Photos from Four Points by Sheraton Kuala<br />

Lumpur, Chinatown<br />

Premier Downtown, with a view of KLCC & KL Tower<br />

<strong>The</strong> arrival lobby of Four Points by Sheraton<br />

Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown is adorned with<br />

a vertical garden that welcomes visitors with<br />

a peaceful and calm ambience. Guests can<br />

immerse in the design that takes its inspiration<br />

from the Chinese history of migration from<br />

the Klang river to the country for mining activities by way of<br />

water transportation.<br />

Exposed walls of burnt brick, decorative floor to ceiling<br />

metal lattice work, warm wood and traditional tiles with<br />

hues of jade is what meets the guest, providing an immediate<br />

sense of space, of the rustic neighbourhood. And what better<br />

neighbourhood than Chinatown, which brims with so much<br />

history and vibrancy.<br />

Located on the seventh floor, the reception lobby features<br />

dramatic bay windows that mesmerise with the play of light<br />

and sweeping city views. <strong>The</strong> hotel features 318 well-appointed,<br />

contemporary and spacious rooms boasting spectacular views<br />

overlooking the expanse of Chinatown and the city of Kuala<br />

Lumpur, including 18 suites and 76 inter-connecting rooms<br />

designed to suit the needs of families and large groups.<br />

Each room features customised wall art by Malaysian<br />

artists Loka Made that beautifully portrays the stories of the<br />

livelihood, craft and trade of the neighbourhood community,<br />

creating a sense of nostalgia of the days gone by. Other facilities<br />

at the hotel include a state-of-the-art fitness center and an<br />

outdoor splash pool, both located on the seventh floor where<br />

guests can recharge or unwind.<br />

Situated in the bustling heritage district of Chinatown,<br />

the hotel reopened for business in mid-July after the Movement<br />

Control Order (MCO). Leveraging on its area, the hotel also<br />

unveiled its very own “Chinatown Express” newsletter, which<br />

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Hotel Facade<br />

“Efforts, in all<br />

details, have been<br />

consciously made to<br />

capture the essence of<br />

Chinatown, its trade<br />

and livelihood of the<br />

days gone by”<br />

Arrival Lobby<br />

115 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE VACATION<br />

“We hope that guests<br />

who walk through<br />

our doors take a piece<br />

of the neighbourhood<br />

back with them<br />

and appreciate a<br />

design that is bold,<br />

original and rich in<br />

character”<br />

Swimming Pool<br />

Jann, the chinoiserie styled bar<br />

Lady Yi’s Tea House<br />

includes a comprehensive map for staycationers to discover<br />

major and hidden gems, from hip haunts and street food to<br />

cultural treasures and Instagram-friendly alleys.<br />

“We look forward to welcoming guests back to reconnect<br />

with the sights and sounds of the neighbourhood,” enthused<br />

Abhimanyu Singh, General Manager of Four Points by<br />

Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown. “We have gone above<br />

and beyond our normal protocols and are redefining our<br />

cleaning and safety standards to provide our guests with a<br />

safe environment.”<br />

“Efforts, in all details, have been consciously made to<br />

capture the essence of Chinatown, its trade and livelihood<br />

of the days gone by,” said Dato’ Choy Wai Hin, Executive<br />

Director of MASTERON Group of Companies and owner<br />

of the hotel. “We hope that guests who walk through<br />

our doors take a piece of the neighbourhood back with<br />

them and appreciate a design that is bold, original and rich<br />

in character.”<br />

At the moment, Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur,<br />

Chinatown is offering three distinct experience packages:<br />

“Love In <strong>The</strong> City”, a romantic stay with all the little details<br />

taken care of, “Kids Stay Free”, which offers a complimentary<br />

adjoining kid-themed Deluxe room and “Culinary Escape”,<br />

which is aimed at foodies, with an upgrade to Premier<br />

Downtown room.<br />

As the new normal evolves, the hotel has also launched<br />

<strong>The</strong> Business Club, an initiative that reinvents workspaces<br />

and promises guests safe and engaging workspaces to fuel<br />

productivity. <strong>The</strong> co-working space concept starts at RM49<br />

per day for a hot desk and includes business services, access to<br />

the hotel’s pool and gym, free parking and a set lunch.<br />

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Premier Suite Living Room<br />

<strong>The</strong> hotel offers two dining venues, and a bar that serves<br />

up handcrafted cocktails, and a vast selection of cold brews.<br />

Lady Yi’s Tea House (opening next year) is described as a<br />

lobby lounge that offers panoramic views of the city and turns<br />

up the nostalgia while letting diners discover the taste of the<br />

Straits with Peranakan afternoon tea, jazzed up with cocktails<br />

and music.<br />

<strong>The</strong> hotel’s all-day dining called Quan’s Kitchen features<br />

traditional culinary specialties from Chinatown and Western<br />

favourites in an open theatrical kitchen that is sure to delight.<br />

Last but not least there’s Jann, the chinoiserie styled bar which<br />

is an ideal after-hours destination.<br />

Renowned for its jade green wraparound bar and<br />

inventive cocktails inspired by the heritage of Chinatown,<br />

Jann has introduced a series of bottled cocktails. Perfectly<br />

mixed and prepackaged, the Six Senses Flight is a collection of<br />

six bottled cocktails to pique the palate, served with dried fruit<br />

garnish to complete the DIY experience. From sweet to salty,<br />

spicy to bitter, the Six Senses Flight evokes the senses of taste.<br />

Tián is a sweet concoction of Absolut Vodka, Red Wine,<br />

Rose Syrup and Orange Juice. Chivas Extra, Sweet Vermouth,<br />

Caramel and Salt make up the ingredients for Xián while a<br />

touch of chili brings out the spice in Là, a mix of Olmeca<br />

Tequila, Mango Juice, Ginger and Calamansi.<br />

“Ready-to-drink, contactless cocktails are the next step in<br />

the craft cocktail experience. Just pour over ice, garnish and<br />

enjoy with friends,” explained Abhimanyu. <strong>The</strong> Six Senses<br />

Flight is available for RM138 nett at Jann, located on the<br />

hotel’s seventh floor.<br />

Reception<br />

For more details, visit www.fourpointskualalumpurchinatown.com<br />

Six Senses Flight, available at Jann<br />

117 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE VACATION<br />

Statue of Nelson Mandela in Pretoria<br />

Amazing<br />

Adventures<br />

AWAIT<br />

With so much to share, these are glimpses<br />

of what South Africa has to offer.<br />

Text and Photos by Shah Shamshiri<br />

A<br />

nation that has been through countless obstacles<br />

since its foundation, much has been said about<br />

South Africa. Most notoriously known once<br />

upon a time for practicing the controversial<br />

apartheid system, this painful past has long been<br />

left behind. <strong>The</strong> South Africa today is like a risen<br />

phoenix, catching up on lost time and considered by many as the<br />

most developed country on the African continent.<br />

South Africa is also blessed with the four seasons, however due<br />

to its location on the southern hemisphere, their climate resembles<br />

that of Australia and New Zealand, where winter is welcomed<br />

mid-year and summer drops by every year end.<br />

First time visitors to South Africa should begin their journey<br />

at the city of Johannesburg. It is not only the biggest city in the<br />

country but also one of the six official capitals. (Yes, South Africa<br />

<strong>The</strong> Voortrekker Monument<br />

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<strong>The</strong> Victoria and Alfred Waterfront offers spectacular vistas<br />

<strong>The</strong> luxurious Rovos Rail<br />

Colourful homes of Bo Kaap<br />

Dining area of Rovos Rail<br />

has six official capital cities!) Here in Johannesburg, visitors<br />

will be given a chance to learn of the nation’s history and<br />

how the people fought for democracy by visiting the<br />

renowned Constitution Hill. Once a military fort and prison<br />

complex, it now serves as a museum immortalising the past<br />

tales and hurdles of South Africa. It is also now home to the<br />

constitutional court where rights of the citizens are heard.<br />

For ease of sightseeing, hop on their famous ‘Hop On<br />

Hop Off’ bus which will take passengers around Johannesburg.<br />

Be sure to drop by the Carlton Centre, a skyscraper which<br />

gives an amazing bird’s eye view of the city from a towering<br />

height of 223 meters.<br />

<strong>The</strong>n continue the journey to the Apartheid Museum<br />

which unravels more interesting stories of the original people<br />

of South Africa and learn of the struggles faced by worldrenowned<br />

political figure and activist, Nelson Mandela.<br />

Orlando Towers<br />

Be sure to stop by the famous Soweto neighbourhood<br />

which houses the Mandela House. Currently a museum<br />

dedicated to Mandela, it was also once his home from 1946 to<br />

1962. <strong>The</strong> Soweto area is also home to the Orlando Towers<br />

which are now used as a site for bungee jumping.<br />

For a glimpse into South African popular culture, head<br />

on to the Maboneng district. This corner of the city boasts<br />

blocks of hip cafes and restaurants as well as boutiques and art<br />

inspired shops helmed by a new generation of young artistic<br />

South Africans. A myriad of fashion and art masterpieces can<br />

be found here, either on display or even worn by the local<br />

visitors!<br />

119 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE VACATION<br />

View on top of Table Mountain<br />

Kimberly is famous for diamond mining<br />

One of the many attractions at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront<br />

Once done with Johannesburg, extend your adventure to<br />

nearby Pretoria. This administrative capital of South Africa<br />

takes about 30 minutes to reach by car from the centre of<br />

Johannesburg. In Pretoria, visitors can see the beautiful<br />

bronze statues of world-famous warriors and activists who<br />

once contributed to the independence and liberation of<br />

discrimination in South Africa at the Long March to Freedom<br />

National Heritage Monument. Among the statues found there<br />

are that of Mahatma Gandhi and Mandela.<br />

Make some time for Freedom Park, another historical<br />

site which now serves as a memorial monument remembering<br />

those who died while fighting for South Africa. Just a stone’s<br />

throw away is the Voortrekker monument, dedicated to<br />

the early Caucasian settlers who migrated from Europe<br />

<strong>The</strong> top of Table Mountain can be reached by cable car<br />

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Residence of Nelson Mandela<br />

Apartheid Museum is an educational visit<br />

(specifically the Netherlands) and left Cape Colony in the<br />

early 1800s. <strong>The</strong> monument recollects many tales of the first<br />

meetings between the ‘white-skinned’ settlers and the original<br />

people of South Africa.<br />

Another must-see are the ‘Union Buildings’ area which<br />

resembles that of Washington DC where all the government<br />

administrative offices are located. And this is also where a<br />

gigantic statue of Mandela was erected and known to be a<br />

landmark of the South African nation. <strong>The</strong> area is surrounded<br />

by beautiful gardens which are often used as recreational<br />

venues for the locals.<br />

Naturally, no trip to South Africa would be complete<br />

without visiting the world-famous city of Cape Town. <strong>The</strong>re<br />

are several ways to get to Cape Town but the best and probably<br />

classiest way to get there is by taking the luxurious Rovos Rail.<br />

As though plucked right out from Agatha Christie’s “Murder<br />

On <strong>The</strong> Orient Express”, the journey takes about two nights<br />

and the train leaves its very own station located in Pretoria. It<br />

really is quite the experience as every guest is wined and dined<br />

and treated like royalty.<br />

Apart from spacious luxurious cabins, exquisite meals are<br />

served accordingly with food and beverage made available 24<br />

hours a day for all guests on a complimentary basis. Passengers<br />

will also get to go on excursions as the train stops at other<br />

towns like Kimberly which is famous for diamond mining<br />

before another break at an old town known as Matjiesfontein.<br />

Cape Town shows its vibrant side<br />

And get this, there is no Wi-Fi connection on<br />

board the Rovos Rail as they believe that the<br />

journey should be enjoyed and savoured. (But<br />

don’t worry, phones can still be used inside the<br />

private cabins)<br />

Once in Cape Town, the Victoria and<br />

Alfred (V&A) Waterfront is a must-visit for<br />

guests as it offers several attractions and<br />

spectacular vistas. Naturally, another easy<br />

option would be to get on the Hop On Hop<br />

Off bus to see the whole of Cape Town.<br />

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the<br />

world-famous Table Mountain and witness<br />

breathtaking views from high above the clouds.<br />

<strong>The</strong> top of the mountain can be reached by<br />

taking the cable car. Be sure to also swing by<br />

the colourful homes of Bo Kaap which is said<br />

to be the housing area of the Malay Muslim<br />

community of South Africa. And if you have<br />

the time, take a boat ride around the V&A<br />

waterfront and check out the playful seals as<br />

they sunbathe around the area.<br />

Truly, South Africa has so much to share and these are<br />

just short glimpses of what the country has to offer.<br />

Residents of artistic district Maboneng<br />

121 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE LIST<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Golf & Country Resort<br />

DINING OUTLETS & SHOPS<br />

Function Areas<br />

3 Greens I<br />

23 Greens III<br />

25 Poolside Terrace<br />

First Floor<br />

5 Greens II<br />

8 Ballroom I<br />

9 Ballroom II<br />

10 Ballroom III<br />

Outlets<br />

1 MST Golf Pro Shop<br />

2 De Manshop<br />

4 Twenty 7 Restaurant<br />

6 Spring Garden Chinese Restaurant<br />

7 <strong>The</strong> Palm Coffee House<br />

11 Gin Shui Tei Japanese Restaurant<br />

12 Kindyland <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

14 <strong>The</strong> Green House Florist<br />

15 Alam General Store<br />

Outlets<br />

16 <strong>Tropicana</strong> Clinic<br />

17 Eco Salon<br />

18 Havana Lounge & Havana Cozy<br />

19 TGCR Sales Gallery<br />

20 QingHeGu Korean Traditional Restaurant<br />

21 J Italian Restaurant<br />

22 Thai Odyssey Spa & Massage<br />

24 Bowling Alley<br />

MST Golf Pro Shop<br />

Ground Floor, Golf Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7804 6348<br />

Open Daily: 7.00am - 7.00pm<br />

De Manshop<br />

Ground Floor, Golf Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7880 4063<br />

012-331 8063 (KK Wong)<br />

(Call mobile for appointment)<br />

Open Daily: 11.00am - 7.00pm<br />

Twenty 7 Restaurant<br />

Ground Floor, Golfers’ Lounge<br />

Tel: 03-7804 8888 ext. 325<br />

Open Daily:<br />

Mon to Sun: 6.30am - 11.00pm<br />

Spring Garden<br />

Chinese Restaurant<br />

Ground Floor, Main Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7880 7226<br />

Mon to Sat:<br />

11.30am - 2.30pm | 6.30pm - 10.30pm<br />

Sun to Public Holidays<br />

10.30am - 2.30pm | 6.30pm - 10.30pm<br />

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<strong>The</strong> Palm Coffee House<br />

Ground Floor, Main Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7804 8888 ext. 306<br />

Weekdays: 11.30am - 3.00pm<br />

6.00pm - 10.30pm<br />

Weekends & Public Holidays:<br />

11.00am - 10.30pm<br />

Gin Shui Tei<br />

Japanese Restaurant<br />

Ground Floor, Main Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7886 9168<br />

Open Daily:<br />

Lunch: 12.00noon - 3.00pm<br />

Dinner: 6.30pm - 10.30pm<br />

Kindyland <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Lower Ground Floor, Main Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7804 8888 ext. 318<br />

Mon to Fri: 8.00am - 3.00pm<br />

Closed on Weekends and Public<br />

Holidays<br />

QingHeGu Korean<br />

Traditional Restaurant<br />

Ground Floor, Palms Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7802 8917<br />

Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3.00pm<br />

6.00pm – 10.00pm<br />

Weekends & Public Holidays:<br />

11.30am – 10.00pm<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Sales Gallery<br />

<strong>The</strong> Green House Florist<br />

Alam General Store<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Clinic<br />

Ground Floor, Walkway<br />

Tel: 1 800 88 8128<br />

Mon to Fri: 9.30am – 6.00pm<br />

Sat: 9.30am – 1.00pm<br />

Closed on Sunday and<br />

Public Holidays<br />

Ground Floor, Walkway<br />

Tel: 012-370 7303 /<br />

03-7880 1388<br />

Mon to Fri: 9.00am - 6.00pm<br />

Sat: 9.00am - 5.00pm<br />

Closed on Sunday<br />

Ground Floor, Walkway<br />

Tel: 03-7804 3095<br />

Open Daily: 10.45am - 9.00pm<br />

Ground Floor, Walkway<br />

Tel: 03-7805 5461 (Dr. Molly)<br />

Mon to Fri: 9.00am - 7.00pm<br />

Sat: 9.00am - 4.30pm<br />

Closed on Sunday and<br />

Public Holidays<br />

Eco Salon<br />

Ground Floor, Walkway<br />

Tel: 03-7804 9316<br />

Tues to Sat: 10.30am - 7.30pm<br />

Sun: 10.30am - 6.00pm<br />

Closed every Mon and Public<br />

Holidays<br />

Havana Lounge &<br />

Havana Cozy<br />

Lower Ground Floor, Palms Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7804 8888 ext. 514<br />

Open Daily:<br />

Mon to Thurs: 5.00pm - 1.00am<br />

Fri to Sat: 5.00pm - 2.00am<br />

Closed on Sunday<br />

J Italian Restaurant<br />

Ground Floor, Palms Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7805 3935<br />

Mon to Thurs: 11.00am - 3.00pm |<br />

6.00pm - 11.00pm<br />

Fri to Sun: 11.00am -1.00am<br />

Thai Odyssey<br />

Sports Wing Entrance<br />

Tel: 03-7803 1233<br />

Open Daily: 10.00am - 10.00pm<br />

Driving Range<br />

Bowling Cafe<br />

Poolside Café<br />

West Course<br />

Tel: 03-7880 6164<br />

Lower Ground Floor, Sports Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7804 8888 ext. 327<br />

Lower Ground Floor, Sports Wing<br />

Tel: 03-7804 8888 ext. 327<br />

Open Daily: 7.00am - 11.00pm<br />

Mon: 2.00pm - 11.00pm<br />

Mon to Fri: 3.00pm - 11.00pm<br />

Sat to Sun: 10.00am - 11.00pm<br />

Tues to Fri: 4.00pm - 7.00pm<br />

Sat, Sun and Public Holidays:<br />

8.00am - 7.00pm<br />

Closed on Mon<br />

123 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE LIST<br />

MAIN CONTACT NUMBERS<br />

Head Office<br />

+603 7663 6888<br />

Customer Care Support & <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

Privilege Card Services<br />

+603 7663 6888/ +6012 688 7003<br />

customercare@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

CORPORATE OFFICES<br />

TROPICANA CORPORATION BERHAD<br />

Head Office<br />

Unit 1301, Level 13,<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens Office Tower<br />

No 2A, Persiaran Surian, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Indah<br />

47810, Petaling Jaya<br />

Selangor Darul Ehsan<br />

Tel: +603 7663 6888<br />

Fax: +603 7663 6688<br />

corpcomm@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

www.tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9am - 6pm (Monday - Friday)<br />

Closed (Saturday & Sunday)<br />

TROPICANA GOLF &<br />

COUNTRY RESORT BERHAD<br />

Clubhouse<br />

Jalan Kelab <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Golf & Country Resort<br />

47410 Petaling Jaya<br />

Selangor Darul Ehsan<br />

Tel: +603 7804 8888<br />

Fax: +603 7804 3688<br />

gm@tropicanagolf.com<br />

www.tropicanagolf.com<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9am - 6pm (Monday - Friday)<br />

9am - 1pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday)<br />

PROPERTY GALLERIES<br />

TROPICANA AMAN (KOTA KEMUNING)<br />

Property Gallery & Show Unit<br />

No 2, Persiaran Aman Perdana 3<br />

Bandar <strong>Tropicana</strong> Aman<br />

42500 Telok Panglima a, Selangor<br />

Tel: 1700 81 8868<br />

enquiry@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

www.tropicanaaman.com.my<br />

Office Hours: 9:30am – 6:30pm<br />

(Monday – Sunday)<br />

TROPICANA HEIGHTS (KAJANG)<br />

Property Gallery & Show Unit<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Heights Show Village<br />

Off Jalan P6/2<br />

43500 Semenyih, Kajang, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 7453 2328 / +6016 239 7565<br />

enquiry@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

www.tropicanaheights.com.my<br />

Office Hours: 9:30am – 6:30pm<br />

(Monday – Sunday)<br />

TROPICANA DANGA BAY<br />

(ISKANDAR MALAYSIA)<br />

Property Gallery & Show Unit<br />

Lot PTB 22902, Teluk Danga<br />

Jalan Persiaran Abu Bakar Sultan<br />

80200 Johor Bahru, Johor<br />

Tel: +607 2341 585<br />

enquiry@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

www.tropicanadangabay.com.my<br />

Office Hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm<br />

(Monday – Sunday)<br />

TROPICANA GARDENS (TROPICANA INDAH)<br />

Property Gallery & Show Unit<br />

Level G, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens Mall<br />

No. 2A, Persiaran Surian, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Indah<br />

47810 Petaling Jaya<br />

Selangor Darul Ehsan<br />

Tel : +603 7880 0989<br />

enquiry@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

www.tropicanagardens.com.my<br />

Office Hours: 9:30am – 6:30pm<br />

(Monday – Sunday)<br />

TROPICANA DANGA COVE<br />

(ISKANDAR MALAYSIA)<br />

Property Gallery & Show Unit<br />

Lot PTD 28845-28892<br />

Taman Cahaya Kota Puteri, Plentong<br />

81750 Masai, Johor<br />

Tel: +607 3823 355<br />

enquiry@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

www.tropicanadangacove.com.my<br />

Office Hours: 9:00am – 6:00pm<br />

(Monday – Sunday)<br />

TROPICANA METROPARK (SUBANG JAYA)<br />

Property Gallery & Show Unit<br />

Lot 38515, Jalan Delima 1/1<br />

Subang Hi-Tech<br />

40000 Subang Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 5636 6888 / +603 5637 3018<br />

enquiry@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

www.tropicanametropark.com.my<br />

Office Hours: 9:30am – 6:30pm<br />

(Monday – Sunday)<br />

TROPICANA 218 MACALISTER (PENANG)<br />

Property Gallery<br />

No 16, Jalan Anson<br />

10400 Penang<br />

Tel: +604 2105 888<br />

enquiry@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

www.tropicana218macalister.com.my<br />

Office Hours: 9:30am – 6:30pm<br />

(Monday – Sunday)<br />

TROPICANA GRANDHILL (GENTING)<br />

Property Gallery & Show Unit<br />

Jalan Permai 2, Genting Permai,<br />

69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang<br />

Tel: +603-6106 0688 / +6018-390 9988<br />

enquiry@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

www.tropicanagrandhill.com<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 6:00pm<br />

(Monday – Sunday)<br />

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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OFFICES<br />

TROPICANA<br />

MANAGEMENT SERVICES<br />

(TMS)<br />

Jalan Kelab <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Golf &<br />

Country Resort<br />

47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 7804 8888<br />

ext : 513/557<br />

Fax: +603 7806 5044<br />

tms@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 6:00pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA GRANDE<br />

Level 1, Management Office<br />

Block A, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Grande<br />

Condominium, No 3, Persiaran<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong>, PJU 3<br />

47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 7610 0968<br />

Fax: +603 7610 0966<br />

tropicanagrande@<br />

tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA INDAH<br />

Jalan Kelab <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Golf &<br />

Country Resort<br />

47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 7804 8888<br />

ext : 154/557<br />

Fax: +603 7806 5044<br />

tisb@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 6:00pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

CASA TROPICANA<br />

B-5-17, Block B, Casa <strong>Tropicana</strong>,<br />

No 5, Jalan Persiaran <strong>Tropicana</strong>,<br />

PJU 3, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Golf &<br />

Country Resort<br />

47410 Petaling Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 7883 0982<br />

Fax: +603 7883 0292<br />

casatropicana@<br />

tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA CHERAS<br />

No 6, Jalan <strong>Tropicana</strong> Cheras 1<br />

Taman <strong>Tropicana</strong> Cheras<br />

43000 Kajang, Selangor<br />

Tel: +6013 202 0746<br />

tropicanacheras@<br />

tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA HEIGHTS<br />

(FAIRFIELD/PARKFIELD)<br />

Off Jalan P6/2, Bandar<br />

Teknologi Kajang 43500<br />

Semenyih, Kajang, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 8725 9800<br />

fairfield@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

parkfield@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA HEIGHTS<br />

(RIDGEFIELD)<br />

Jalan <strong>Tropicana</strong> Heights 2/1<br />

42000 Kajang, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 8723 5191<br />

ridgefield@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

THE RESIDENCES<br />

Basement 1, Menara TR<br />

No 121, Jalan Ampang<br />

50450 Kuala Lumpur<br />

Tel: +603 2770 6338<br />

Fax: +603 2270 6343<br />

theresidences@<br />

tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA GARDENS<br />

(ARNICA & BAYBERRY)<br />

Level 5, Residensi A,<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens,<br />

No 2A, Persiaran Surian,<br />

Tropican Indah<br />

47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 2714 6172<br />

trop.gardens@<br />

tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA GARDENS<br />

(CYPERUS & DIANTHUS)<br />

Level 6, Residensi C,<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Gardens<br />

No 2A, Persiaran Surian,<br />

Tropican Indah<br />

47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 2714 6175<br />

trop.gardens@<br />

tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA AVENUE<br />

P-LG-01, Lower Ground Floor<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Avenue<br />

No 12, Persiaran <strong>Tropicana</strong><br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Golf & Country<br />

Resort, PJU 3, 47410 Petaling<br />

Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 8605 3608 /<br />

+603 8605 3609<br />

Fax: +603 8605 3618<br />

trop.avenue@tropicanacorp.<br />

com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA<br />

AMAN (ARAHSIA)<br />

Arahsia <strong>Tropicana</strong> Aman<br />

Jalan Aman Arahsia 2<br />

Bandar <strong>Tropicana</strong> Aman<br />

42500 Telok Panglima Garang,<br />

Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 8687 5512<br />

arahsia@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA<br />

AMAN (BAYAN)<br />

Bayan <strong>Tropicana</strong> Aman<br />

Jalan Aman Bayan 1<br />

Bandar <strong>Tropicana</strong> Aman<br />

42500 Telok Panglima Garang,<br />

Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 8687 5525<br />

Fax: +603 8687 5530<br />

bayan@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA<br />

AMAN (CHERIA)<br />

No.1 Jalan Aman Chria, Bandar<br />

<strong>Tropicana</strong> Aman, 42500 Telok<br />

Panglima Garang, Selangor<br />

Darul Ehsan Malaysia<br />

Tel: +603 8686 1088<br />

Fax: +603 8686 1087<br />

cheria@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA LANDMARK<br />

Level 5, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Landmark<br />

Lorong Kondo Bundusan<br />

Off Jalan Bundusan<br />

88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah<br />

Tel: +6088 742 052<br />

tropicanalandmark@gmail.com<br />

Office Hours:<br />

8:30am – 5:00pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

8:30am – 12:30pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA<br />

METROPARK (PANDORA)<br />

Level P4, Menara A,<br />

Pandora Residensi<br />

Jalan MP1, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Metropark<br />

47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 5036 2088<br />

Fax: +603 5036 2089<br />

pandora@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA<br />

METROPARK (PALOMA)<br />

Tower B, Level 4,<br />

Paloma Residensi<br />

Jalan MP1, <strong>Tropicana</strong> Metropark<br />

47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor<br />

Tel: +603 5022 9099<br />

Fax: +603 5022 9097<br />

paloma@tropicanacorp.com.my<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA<br />

DANGA BAY (BORA)<br />

No 01-01, Residensi Bora<br />

Jalan Danga 1/1, Teluk Danga<br />

80200 Johor Bahru, Johor<br />

Tel: +607 2074 234<br />

boraresidences@gmail.com<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

TROPICANA<br />

DANGA BAY (TROPEZ)<br />

G-03, Blok B, Tropez Residen,<br />

Persiaran Danga Perdana,<br />

80200 Johor Bahru, Johor<br />

Tel: +607 2446 559<br />

Fax: +607 2374 088<br />

tropezmanagement@gmail.com<br />

Office Hours:<br />

9:00am – 5:30pm<br />

(Monday – Friday)<br />

9:00am – 1:00pm (Saturday)<br />

Closed (Sunday & Public Holiday)<br />

125 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong> | TM


THE END<br />

“<br />

Your success and happiness<br />

lies in you. Resolve to keep<br />

happy, and your joy and you<br />

shall form an invincible host<br />

against difficulties.<br />

- Helen Keller<br />

“<br />

Photo by Darius Krause/Pexels<br />

TM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER <strong>2020</strong><br />

126


SPECIALISED SERVICE CENTRE EXCLUSIVELY FOR<br />

MERCEDES-BENZ, BMW AND AUDI CAR OWNERS<br />

AT KOTA DAMANSARA<br />

We provide a full range of fixed-price services, each performed in a structured series<br />

of operating procedures to ensure faster and more efficient performance servicing;<br />

especially for Mercedes-Benz, BMW and AUDI car owners whose car warranties have expired<br />

LIST OF SERVICES<br />

Lubrication & Maintenance Service<br />

Air Cond Service and Maintenance<br />

Programming and Adaptation using latest STAR Diagnostic Compact 4 and BMW<br />

ISID Diagnostic Tester<br />

Computer and Electronic Programming complete with SCN Coding<br />

Suspension System<br />

Engine and Automatic Transmission Overhauling<br />

Braking System ABS/ETS/ASR/SBC/ABR<br />

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Suspension System<br />

Prominent Autotech Sdn Bhd<br />

No 8-E, Jalan Teknologi, Pusat Teknologi Sunsuria<br />

Kota Damansara PJU 5, 47810 Petaling Jaya Selangor<br />

Tel: +603-6151 5369 / +603-6151 8369<br />

Fax: +603-6150 5369<br />

Email: enquiry@prominentautotech.com.my<br />

OPERATING HOURS<br />

Monday to Friday, 8.30am - 5.30pm<br />

Saturday, 8.30am - 3pm<br />

Closed on Sunday and Public Holidays<br />

www.prominentautotech.com.my

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