ZafigoX Event Schedule 10 THINGS TO DON’T MISS OUT! KNOW ABOUT DISCOVER ’S GEORGE TOWN HISTORICAL SITES

GETTING AROUND 10 FOODS YOU DON’T PENANG STATE WANT TO MISS

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For women travellers in Asia CONTENTS 05 ABOUT ZAFIGO 07 For women travellers in Asia ZAFIGOX SCHEDULE FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 09 MARINA MAHATHIR [email protected] ZAFIGOX SPEAKERS 13 STRATEGY & DEVELOPMENT JAMES CHONG [email protected] GEORGE TOWN CITY GUIDE

17 EDITOR VIVIAN CHONG [email protected] GETTING AROUND PENANG

19 CONTENT MANAGER & SUB-EDITOR TENGKU ZAI [email protected] ETIQUETTE: HOW TO DRESS

20 MARKETING & PARTNERSHIPS STAYING CONNECTED MAGGIE DE SOUZA [email protected]

21 DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA IN CASE OF EMERGENCY TEH SUE MAY [email protected] 3 2 GRAPHICS & DESIGN 10 MALAYSIAN DISHES LEE XIN XIN [email protected] 27

6 KEY LANDMARKS FOR ENQUIRIES ON ADVERTISING AND PARTNERSHIPS 29 [email protected] ETIQUETTE: DOS & DON’TS FOR EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES [email protected]

31 We would love to know your travel tips and stories. Drop us an email at [email protected] SOUNDBYTES ON THE COVER 33 Illustration by Lee Xin Xin, featuring an old heritage building in Penang MANGLISH 101 xin2lee.tumblr.com 35 ZAFIGO TRAVEL CARDS 3 4

Don’t be a tourist, be a traveller – ANONYMOUS ” 5 6

ABOUT ZAFIGO TRAVELLING IS A VERY GENDERED BUSINESS

Women have to look out for many things that men may not have to. This is especially so in Asia and the Middle East, where social and cultural norms that affect women vary from one country to the next.

Zafigo is dedicated to helping Take only you navigate that maze by making travel safer, better, easier and more interesting for women. Hence its name, a play on the phrase “Safe I go.” We offer dedicated city guides, tips memories, and stories that are written with women travellers in mind. It is our vision to foster a community where women can connect with other women in the cities that they are travelling to. leave only

Find us at www.zafigo.com for travel ideas and inspiration, or to share yours. footprints www.zafigo.com

Zafigo – CHIEF SEATTLE

ZafigoAsia 7 8

SCHEDULE 30.8.2017 SCHEDULE 31.8.2017

MARINA MAHATHIR DEEPTI ASTHANA PETRINA THONG JIN JEONG DEBORAH CHAN KELLY LEWIS 09:10AM Getting The Frog From 09:30AM Overcoming 09:50AM Hitchhiking From 09:10AM 6 Years, 67 Countries, 09:30AM Stepping Up & Out: 09:50AM How I Built A Business Under The Coconut - Welcome Expectations & Barriers On Sweden To : Of Money, 62,000kms, 5 Continents, 1 Girl: Moving My Family To Cambodia In Travel Remarks By Marina Mahathir Women And Telling Their Stories Men, And Misconceptions What I’ve Learned Cycling And What It Takes To Make The World A Difference

ÖZGE ELIF ÖZER BRENDAN Ó SÉ CATHERYN KHOO-LATTIMORE CHRYS TAN NELLEISA OMAR MANAL AL-SHARIF 10:10AM Turkey, Military Coups 11:00AM Amazing Smartphone 11:20AM Women, Wanderlust 10:10AM In Pursuit Of Happiness: 11:00AM When You Think Cancer 11:20AM Drive Your Own Destiny And Menstrual Cycles Photography & Wellbeing: What Travel Does Why I Left And Stops You From Life To You Became A Digital Nomad

WOMEN & INDEPENDENT TRAVEL & MAKING A SELF-DEFENSE FOR THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT WHILE “IT WAS TOUGH, IT HURT, SELF-DEFENSE FOR THE TRAVEL: THE GREATEST POSITIVE IMPACT FEMALE TRAVELLER TRAVELLING: THE REALITY & BUT I DID IT, AND IT MADE FEMALE TRAVELLER CHALLENGES & WHY WE by Sumitra Selvaraj by Ann ‘Athena’ Osman & Emily Barner HOW TO OVERCOME IT ME FEEL GOOD” by Ann ‘Athena’ Osman & Emily Barner SHOULD DO IT ANYWAY 02:00PM 03:30PM Moderated by Kudsia Kahar Moderated by Marina Mahathir 03:30PM Moderated by Anita Ahmad 11:35AM 02:00PM 11:35AM

AN AFTERNOON OF SAREES TRAVEL BEAUTY: BRING YOUR CROSS-BORDER CYCLING: TRAVEL SAFE, TRAVEL FINDING REMOTE WORK: HOW & STORIES ENTIRE COSMETICS WARDROBE WHAT & HOW TO PREPARE FOR SMART, TRAVEL NOW: TO START YOUR LOCATION- by Sumitra Selvaraj EVERYWHERE YOUR ULTIMATE BIKING TRIP A PRIVATE SESSION INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE 03:30PM by Tengku Zai by Jin Jeong by Kudsia Kahar, Priscilla Patrick by Chrys Tan 03:30PM 03:30PM & Özge Elif Özer 03:30PM 03:30PM 9 10

SPEAKERS AND MODERATORS A SNEAK PEEK OF SOME OF THE AMAZING WOMEN YOU’RE ABOUT TO MEET

DATIN PADUKA MARINA MAHATHIR Founder, Zafigo Marina is a writer and activist for women’s rights and HIV/AIDS. As a newspaper columnist, she has written about the many injustices DEEPTI ASTHANA DEBORAH CHAN JACQUELINE FONG Malaysian women suffer. Founder, Women of India Travel Writer & World Explorer Co-Founder, Tanoti A self-taught photographer, Deborah is behind the Ardent In 2012, Jackie and her former Deepti is a travel addict and Traveler, a site focused on school-mate, Dr June Ngo storyteller with her photos. sustainable travel, unique started Tanoti Sdn Bhd, an MANAL AL-SHARIF She’s also a Canon India mentor accommodations and award-winning social enterprise Author & Columnist and winner of many accolades personalities in the travel to preserve heritage craft, One of TIME Magazine’s 100 most including the Youth Photography industry. Deb’s written for empower women and build influential people, Manal is a Award from UNESCO. multiple publications. rural communities. prominent voice advocating for women’s rights and empowerment in the Muslim and Arab world.

DR CATHERYN KHOO- KELLY LEWIS ANITA AHMAD JIN JEONG KUDSIA KAHAR NELLEISA OMAR LATTIMORE Founder, Go! Girl Guides Founder, Travel & Be Solo Cyclist Co-Founder & CEO, Kudsia+Co Founder, The Godmothers Women Travel Researcher She’s the founder of Go! Girl This wonder woman has spent Jin has cycled through 67 Kudia has over 25 years of radio Nell and her best friend founded Catheryn is an international Guides, the world’s first and only the last 14 years working in countries in North America, Latin experience and was at the helm clothing line The Godmothers expert on women and children series of travel guidebooks for the humanitarian and social America, Africa, Europe, the of several top Malaysian stations. after she was diagnosed with in tourism. She has recently women, and the Women’s Travel development field. She has Middle East, Central Asia and She’s now the Co-Founder breast cancer. The brand’s co-published two books and Fest, an annual conference travelled to 50 countries for South East Asia. And all without and CEO of Kudsia+Co and apparel carries messages her work has been published in centred around inspiring and both leisure and work, including going back home for six years. regularly speaks at international of strength and hope while international journals. empowering women to travel. Afghanistan, Iraq and Sudan. That’s over 67,000 kilometres! conferences and forums. spreading cancer awareness. 11 12

ÖZGE ELIF ÖZER HAZLEEN PANAYIOTOU BRENDAN Ó SÉ Consultant & Traveller Founder, Amazing Trekkers Club iPhone Photographer Of The Year ROYALE CHULAN PENANG Elif is the current Head of The CEO of a fully-licensed A fine art and iPhone Special Projects for Tune Talk travel company (TrekkersAsia), photographer, Brendan has Royale treatment only at Royale Chulan Sdn Bhd. She has lived in six Hazleen is also the founder of won awards in prestigious countries and travelled across the Amazing Trekkers Club – a international competitions and 30 more. She believes travelling women-only mountaineering exhibits his work around the Nestled in the heart of historic George Town, at the core zone of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, alone is empowering, and that it group. She’s travelled world. His work was part of the makes you question everything extensively, and has even Apple World Gallery shot on Royale Chulan Penang brings you back in time with its blend of classic charm with contemporary designs. you have been taught. climbed 29 mountains. iPhone 6 in 2015. We provide luxurious comfort and full amenities for leisure travelers as well as the perfect setting for celebrations, business meetings and corporate events.

Facilities & Services 180 Rooms & Suites ● All Day Dining ● Lounge ● Fine Dining ● Executive Lounge ● Tea Room Ballroom ● Meeting Rooms ● Business Centre ● Fitness Centre ● Swimming Pool Spa ● Parking ● Wireless Internet Connection

Follow us: royalechulanpenang

SUMITRA SELVARAJ CHRYS TAN PETRINA THONG Founder, Sarees & Stories Founder, Women Digital Nomads Solo Traveller As a writer, presenter and media Two and a half years ago, Chrys Petrina once flew to Stockholm professional, Sumitra has spent decided to leave her fast-paced on a whim, with only USD200. the last 18 years in Malaysia’s advertising career. Now she She made her way home to communications industry. She works location-independent as a Kuala Lumpur by hitchhiking chronicles wearing a saree digital nomad and Women Digital and now works as a freelance everyday and everywhere in her Nomads, a popular website about scriptwriter so when the urge to blog, Sarees & Stories. working remotely. leave hits, she can jet anytime. 1 & 2, Pengkalan Weld, George Town, 10300 Penang, Malaysia T: (604) 259 8888 F: (604) 250 1111 E: [email protected] www.royalechulan-penang.com Boustead Hotels & Resorts Sdn. Bhd. (147089-A) 13 14

WORK THOSE LEG CHIC CAFÉS FOR CHILL- RIDE IN A TRISHAW 03 MUSCLES 04 05 OUTS AND GEORGE TOWN With its narrow, atmospheric It may be touristy but is an Once synonymous with streets, George Town is ideal enjoyable experience no less street food, Penang’s fabled – A CITY GUIDE FOR WOMEN for walking. You can stop and that harks back to the days culinary scene has expanded marvel at street art, scrutinise when these three-wheeled considerably with a raft of cool WHAT TO EXPECT AND WHAT TO stunning architectural details, vehicles were the main mode of cafes and coffee bars that even and observe all the little things transport. It can, however, be a non-hipsters love to be seen LOOK OUT FOR ON THE BEAUTIFUL, that give the heritage area its tad uncomfortable on a hot day. at. Perennial favourites include TROPICAL ISLAND OF PENANG charm. Remember to wear China House, Mugshot Cafe and sensible shoes (or get a pair Tip: Wait till the early evenings Cozy in the Rocket. Flip to page George Town is the capital of Penang state, which consists of Penang made at Hong Kong Shoe Store). when temperatures drop. 15 for more great eats. Island and Seberang Perai, a strip of land across in Peninsula Malaysia. Separated by the Straits of Malacca, Penang Island and Seberang Perai are linked by two bridges: The 13.5km Penang Bridge and the newer 24km Penang Second Bridge. THERE’S MORE TO STREET ART THAN In 2008, George Town was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 06 PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES covering two zones in the north-eastern tip of the city. The Core Zone is a Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacherevic’s murals, which started as a 109-hectare site on the north-east of Penang Island that consists of over commission for the George Town Festival 2012 to liven up old 1,700 buildings. Surrounding that is a 150-hectare band called the Buffer buildings, still have travellers flocking to the city. In truth, the street Zone. The earliest wave of heritage appreciation activities took place in art renaissance started in 2009 with the city-wide installation of steel the Core Zone (especially around Lebuh Armenian and Lebuh Pantai) but rod caricatures that depict historical events and figures. in the last couple of years, the goodness has spilled over into the Nagore enclave in the buffer zone as well.

There are two ways to commute between Penang Island and Mainland: CLAN HOUSE CULTURE Drive across one of the two bridges, or take the Penang Ferry service that 07 has been operating since the 1920s, making it the oldest ferry service The Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi is the most distinctive and in Malaysia. We recommend taking the 15-minute ferry ride – it’s a fun, reputable clan house in Penang. It’s usually closed in the evenings, inexpensive way to soak in Penang’s sky and sealine. You only have to but every last Saturday of the month, Khoo Kongsi turns on the lights pay RM1.20 when you come back from the Mainland. Operating roughly at its courtyard between 6.30pm-10.00pm to accommodate exciting between 6.00am-12.00am, the ferry departs at 20- to 30-minute intervals. Chinese art and cultural performances on the opera stage.

Here are 10 things every woman traveller ought to know and do when in George Town: Photo credits: Khookongsi.com.my

USE KOMTAR TO GET TRAVEL PRIVILEGE BEAUTY THROUGH MODERN ART IN AN OLD SUNDAY STRUT ALONG 01 YOUR BEARINGS 02 CARD – PENANG 08THE AGES 09 BUS DEPOT 10 CAR-FREE STREETS If you ever get lost, just look at This smartcard is one of the If you’ve ever wondered how our Hin Bus Depot is a contemporary Between 7am and 1pm every KOMTAR. At 232m (761ft), the most useful and cost-effective matriarchs dolled up before the art centre housed in a 68-year- Sunday, the areas of Lebuh island’s tallest landmark can ways to explore Penang with. advent of digital perms, get a old abandoned bus depot that Pantai, Lebuh Bishop, Lebuh be seen from any point within Costing only RM20, it provides blowout at an old-school perm has been lovingly restored while Gereja and Gat Lebuh Gereja George Town. It may no longer up to 20 per cent discount parlour. These legacy institutions keeping to its nostalgic aura. are car-free for Project Occupy be the hippest hangout but on transportation, tourist stand along Jalan Dato Keramat With expansive spaces, a lawn Beach Street. They transform intra-city bus routes radiate from attractions, dining and shopping. and Lorong Hutton, recognisable and outdoor mural area, there into a street carnival of al fresco this terminal, and this is also the Get your hands on one of these by the portraits of women with is always something going on bazaars, outdoor markets, main place to buy inter-city bus at the Penang Tourist Centre or their resplendent pompadours in (most of their exhibitions are outdoor sports and many other tickets and hail trishaws. selected museums. the window displays. free), so check their calendar. family-friendly activities. 15 ADVERTORIAL 16

GASTRONOMY GETAWAY THE ROYALE CHULAN PENANG IS NO STRANGER TO THE ART OF CREATING GOOD FOOD

Penang is known to be a Tea Room paradise for foodies, with Everyday from 2pm to 5pm, the myriad culinary options that are Tea Room serves up a delightful mostly affordable and always English afternoon tea. Each delectable. Even so among the order comes as a set for two, BE EMPOWERED locals, where out-of-towners and includes a pot of fine tea drive for hours just to queue from TWG of your choice, deluxe Setia SPICE Convention Centre th th up for a piping hot plate of nasi sandwiches, a selection of 7 and 8 December 2017 kandar or char kuey teow. yummy cakes and tartlets and of www.beatpenang.com course, warm scones with fresh Being situated right at the heart cream, strawberry jam and fresh of George Town, you can count strawberries. KEYNOTE SPEAKER WHY YOU MUST ATTEND? the Royale Chulan Penang as a must when building your foodie Opportunity to network with Business Events trail. This four-star heritage hotel Roy Sheppard is a specialist industry partners in Penang and around Malaysia has four dining outlets with food conference facilitator, an experienced offerings for any occasion that’s speaker and author of eight books. Roy Obtain insights into the direction of the Business works on high-profile conferences, Events Industry in Penang and have an sure to tantalise your taste buds. including trade shows for some of the opportunity to influence that future direction world’s largest and most respected organisations such as the ICCA Capitalise on business opportunities FOODIE PARADISE Roy Sheppard Congress and International Olympic Poolside Bar Familiarise and gain knowledge on the do’s and Here are some other dining Expert Facilitator & Committee(IOC). Additionally, he is a No better way to enjoy the lovely don’t’s of organising Business Events, including options loved by locals that are Author distinguished European expert on conferences, meetings, exhibitions and incentive tropical sun than with a dip in the just a short distance away from building profitable business activties hotel’s pool. To make your swim relationships through networking and Royale Chulan Penang (RCP): even better, the Royale Chulan referrals. Get on the right track for branding and marketing Penang’s poolside menu makes your product and services Sri Weld Food Court soaking under the sun much 80m from RCP FEE STRUCTURE Learn from the experts from the Business Events more satisfying. Our favourite industry FIRST SUBSEQUENT poolside ? The chips! REGISTRATION CATEGORY The Leaf Healthy House Café DELEGATE DELEGATE 550m from RCP Register now at www.beatpenang.com Sri Tanjung Café The Spice PCEB IPP Members RM400 RM300 This is the Royale Chulan Set right by the pool, enjoy an ChinaHouse MAH Members RM400 RM300 Penang’s coffee house and the ambient degustation dinner 800m from RCP Non Members RM500 RM400 hotel’s busiest restaurant, where made up of fusion cuisine. you can enjoy leisurely meals Reservations can be made for Hameed Pata Mee Sotong in a comfortable ambience. Saturdays through Thursdays. ORGANISERS OFFICIAL VENUE PARTNER 900m from RCP We recommend trying their In the day, pop by for a hearty signature oxtail assam pedas executive lunch that features a Beratur Original – a delicious spicy and sourish three-course set menu, topped 1km from RCP Nyonya dish normally served off with a complimentary Royale HOTEL PARTNERS MEDIA PARTNERS SUPPORTED BY with a side of white rice. Passion mocktail.

MALAYSIAN ASSOCIATION OF HOTELS PERSATUAN HOTEL MALAYSIA 17 18 With a rising number of designated lanes, cycling is an increasingly popular way to commute around George Town. Shops in the core zone offer rental on folding bikes, tandem bikes, family four-seaters and even classic Japanese city bikes. Getting consistently good reviews are Metro Bike, The Leaf Bicycle Rental, Freedom Leisure Cycle Supply (155 Lebuh Victoria) and Townbikes (5 Lorong Chulia).

GETTING AROUND PENANG If you’re touring a small area, consider exploring on foot. TIPS ON THE MANY WAYS YOU Photo credits: Fauzi Yusoff/Flickr George Town is ideal for walking everywhere, and along the way CAN EXPLORE GEORGE TOWN you’ll likely find plenty of photo WITH EASE ops. Another fun option is to Penang Rapid Terminal Photo credits: Fitri Agung/Flickr get around by trishaw. It may RapidPenang is the city’s main be touristy but riding a trishaw public bus network; iOS users is an enjoyable experience no can download their mobile app less that harks back to the days to check bus arrival times. Flash when these three-wheeled your passport to purchase a vehicles were the main mode rapid Passport (RM30) for 7 days of transport. It can, however, of unlimited travel and rebates be a tad uncomfortable on a from partner merchants. hot day. So perhaps wait till the early evenings when the Penang CAT is a free shuttle bus temperatures drop. service that plies the heritage sites and major thoroughfares. (download the map here).

Like Kuala Lumpur, Penang also has the double-decker Hop-On Hop-Off bus that stops at 22 attractions along two different routes (City and Beach).

Regular taxis don’t go by meter. Cabbies charge a fixed price depending on the destination; Grab and Uber are popular (and usually cheaper) options.

Trishaw Photo credits: Shankar S/Flickr 19 20

ETIQUETTE: STAYING CONNECTED HOW TO DRESS PENANG OFFERS EASY AND TIPS FOR WOMEN TRAVELLERS AFFORDABLE MOBILE AND ON HOW TO DRESS TO OCCASION INTERNET SERVICES

When going out and about in codes are a little more relaxed. WIFI ACCESS Penang, it is fine to be casually Even then, you might find You can almost take free Wi-Fi dressed – shorts, sleeveless yourself needing to deal with for granted in Penang, with tops and skirts are all acceptable government officials so keep most cafes, fast food outlets, attire. a smart suit on standby. In coffee chains and restaurants place of business suits, you providing what locals consider However, a few places and can also opt to wear traditional an essential service. Just look occasions impose dress codes. Malaysian outfits to meetings for the familiar Wi-Fi symbol At mosques, they provide robes and formal functions. Our that’s typically displayed at the for you to cover up, or you may favourite is the Nyonya kebaya, entrance, or ask the staff for a want to bring a shawl to cover a traditional Peranakan outfit password. Some shopping malls up with. Chinese and Indian for ladies that comes in many also provide complimentary Wi- temples don’t have the same attractive colours, fabrics and Fi, as do service outlets such as requirements. embellishments. hair salons and even reflexology centres. In any case, common sense Regular Western-style work should always prevail, especially wear is appropriate for most INTERNATIONAL ROAMING if you’re travelling alone. meetings. It is also acceptable Malaysia has three main mobile Flashing too much skin may for women to wear pants. service providers – Maxis, DiGi invite unwanted attention, and and Celcom – and all have this applies anywhere in the If you have a meeting or function signed roaming agreements world. May we add that going at a government department that pretty much guarantee that braless in public is never a good or office, do remember this: international roaming services idea in Malaysia. Government offices may bar on your mobile network should entry to those who are dressed work in Malaysia. To get the best If you happen to find yourself inappropriately. This includes deals, you may need to choose in a formal setting, it is best to the immigration office. So keep the carrier manually, based on dress conservatively – unless in mind that shorts, sandals, your service provider. you’re in an industry such as sleeveless attire and skirts fashion, media, advertising or above the knee are all no-no’s. SIM CARDS entertainment, where dress Prepaid SIM cards are easy to procure, like at the airport as soon as you arrive, where you can buy SIM packs that are designed for travellers. Otherwise, you can head to any telco shop or kiosk at a mall, while convenience stores like 7-Eleven sell them too. 21 22

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY WHO TO CALL FOR HELP

POLICE AND EMERGENCY NUMBERS MEDICAL ASSISTANCE The emergency number in Malaysia is 999 (112 on mobile phones). Should you require If you need to urgently get in touch with someone from Zafigo or hospitalisation, note that while ZafigoX, you may reachJames at +6016-213 1133 or Maggie at public hospitals are open to +6016-3075316. It’s also handy to have a safety app installed on your foreigners, there is usually a phone. Here are a few to consider: long waiting time. You will likely need a referral so visit a GP first instead of heading straight to Red Alert the hospital. Private hospitals are Besides a panic button that can usually more accommodating be activated with a tap, which but they might require proof then launches its Black Box of funds so it would be wise to audio-capturing feature, this app ensure you’re properly insured. then sends your GPS location to registered contacts on your For milder issues, there are phone. Available on Android. walk-in clinics, with some that are open 24 hours. Have at Alarms & Sirens! least RM100 on hand to cover This app offers a collection of consultation fees and medicine. siren sounds you can activate to scare off attackers, or at least If you need medicines, you can throw them off guard, and attract find pharmacies at all shopping attention. The list of sounds malls. Basic over-the-counter includes air raid alarms and medicines such as aspirin, police sirens. Available on iOS. paracetamol and cough syrup can also be purchased at supermarkets, convenience Malaysia Hotlines outlets, traditional Chinese Find contact numbers useful in medicine stores, and small cases of emergencies, including sundry shops. that of local authorities and foreign embassies. You can dial the numbers from within the app. Available on both iOS and Android. 23 24 05 0 07 CENDOL6 DURIAN 10 MALAYSIAN DISHES YOU We love our bananas, but we Jelly-like with a bright green or The indisputable King of Fruits is love them even more when emerald hue, the swims a divisive subject - you’ll either SIMPLY CAN’T MISS battered and deep-fried. Sold in sweetened with love it or hate it. The only way to at street stalls, the current fad gula Melaka (coconut palm find out is to give it a try. It also IT’S HARD TO CHOOSE AMONG MALAYSIA’S sees the fritters topped with a sugar) syrup under a heap of features popularly in variety of sauces, from cheese to crushed ice. Dig into the island’s such as cakes, cream puffs, over ENDLESS FOOD OFFERINGS, SO WE’VE NARROWED chocolate, strawberry and even best one at Penang Road cendol and made into a sticky IT DOWN TO HELP YOU GET STARTED yummy butterscotch. Famous TeoChew Chendul. called .

01 06

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NASI01 LEMAK The rice is cooked in coconut milk for a creamy fragrance, and served with spicy , crispy ikan 07 bilis (anchovies), hard-boiled egg and cucumber slices. That’s just the ‘biasa’ or basic offering; you can pile curries and meat dishes on top of that. Fried chicken is a local favourite. 10

03 04 05 02 03 04 0 09 10 MEE SOTONG CURRY ASSAM8 LAKSA RAMLY BURGER BANANA LEAF RICE

Unique to Penang, this dish is An Indian at bread that can be in a spicy If you love spicy food, you’re Sometimes, nothing beats a Steaming hot rice served on a not to be missed. What it really enjoyed several ways: With enriched with coconut milk and going to love this! Spicy, sour, good old Ramly burger banana leaf, with at least two is, is your usual (fried curry, slices of bananas (roti garnished with bean sprouts, savoury... this tamarind-based – Malaysia’s quintessential types of vegetables, cucumber noodles), but topped with spicy- pisang) or sardines in tomato long beans, juicy cockles, noodles loaded with street burger, grilled and flipped raita, your choice of protein sweet dollop of ‘sotong mamak’ sauce (roti sardin) folded within. fishcakes, puffs and chicken chunks of fish is an explosion of upon order. Customisation is and ladles of curries to douse (squid). For the real deal, head Try it dipped in dhall and sugar, a slices. At the more indulgent flavours that’s bound to make encouraged: Double patties, the grains in. You don’t eat the over to Hameed Pata Special Malaysian childhood classic. stalls, you get crispy skin roast you sweat and want more. cheese, eggs? leaf, but everything on it will be Mee at Padang Kota Lama. pork too. highly satisfying.

Photo credits: 01 - Orioncapital/vFlickr, 03 - Boogv Lee/Flickr, 04 - Alpha/Flickr Photo credits: 05 - Wajakemek/Flickr, 06 - Derrick Loh/Flickr, 07 - Douglas LeMoine/Flickr, 09 - Babe_kl/Flickr, 10 - Sham Hardy/Flickr 25 ADVERTORIAL ADVERTORIAL 26

INSPIRED BY HERITAGE NESTLED IN THE CORE ZONE OF GEORGE TOWN’S UNESCO

HERITAGE SITE IS ROYALE Heritage Lounge CHULAN PENANG

The beauty of Royale Chulan So you can rest easy, and Penang is in the building itself. experience a perfect blend of This 4-star heritage hotel is Eastern and Western hospitality housed within the Boustead in an atmosphere of timeless Building, built in the late 1800s elegance, beyond comfortable along Weld Quay (or Pengkalan and stylish rooms. Weld), a coastal road along the eastern shoreline of Penang You’ll also notice that as soon as island, together with other you set foot out the doorstep of European trading houses. this majestic colonial building, you’ll land yourself right at the Today, you’ll find that the heart of the historical city of So take a stroll along the Weld Boustead Building has been George Town. This city was first Quay area, and immerse yourself transformed. Although retaining inducted into the UNESCO World in a city steeped in myriad most of its unique British Heritage List of Cities and Sites culture. This is an area where colonial style, it fuses this façade in 2008. Royale Chulan Penang you can explore a melange of with a modern interior that pays is also strategically located in late 19th century colonial and homage to the multi-ethnic the George Town’s financial settler architecture, texturised by heritage of the people who call district with many dining, retail a community that still maintains Penang ‘home’. Royale Chulan and entertainment outlets just a a traditional way of urban life. Penang thus offers its visitors short distance away. Heritage Tunnel the best of both worlds – the Take for instance the old, charming history of days gone The Façade pre-war terraces that are now by juxtaposed with modern being renovated into ultra-cool luxury and friendly service. boutiques and retail spaces, art studios and galleries, restaurants and cafes. And once you’re done wandering through Penang’s vibrant city streets, may we suggest a visit to Royal Chulan Penang’s The Royale Spa? Here, you are welcome to relax the senses and rejuvenate your body by indulging in one of our signature Thai treatments. From aromatic body scrubs to Thai traditional massage therapies, we have it all. So Lobby get comfortable. 27 28

6 KEY LANDMARKS A TOWN REPLETE WITH HISTORICAL SITES, STREET ART AND THEN SOME, YOU DON’T HAVE TO VENTURE FAR FROM ZAFIGOX TO FULLY 1km EXPERIENCE GEORGE TOWN AND HER HISTORY

800m

KAPITAN KELING MOSQUE 1km from RCP Sitting pretty at the corner of PENANG HERITAGE TRUST Lebuh Buckingham and Jalan 450m from Royale Chulan KUAN IM TENG Masjid Kapitan Keling today Penang (RCP) 900m (KUAN YIN TEMPLE) is the Kapitan Keling Mosque A six-minute walk from RCP, visit 800m from RCP that was first built in 1801. 1.5km the headquarters of NGO the Penang’s oldest temple. Standing amidst eight acres of Penang Heritage Trust, where When it was first built and lush greenery, the mosque’s CHEONG FATT TZE MANSION you can learn and discover the completed in 1728 by early real highlights are its interior (THE BLUE MANSION) island’s history and countless Chinese immigrants, the newly- of gentle sloping arches and 1.5km from RCP stories. Founded in 1986, the renovated Kuan Yin Temple was exterior Mughal-style domes. This beautiful indigo blue trust also regularly hosts talks 650m considered the most magnificent Entry to those visiting is at the mansion was first built in and numerous workshops open Chinese-style erection in all PENANG STREET ART discretion of mosque officials. the late 1800s by a wealthy to members and non-members. CLAN JETTIES OF PENANG of Northern Malaysia with its 900m from RCP Visitors are advised to be Chinese merchant named We suggest using a trip here 650m from RCP intricate dragon carvings, stone Located along several streets modestly attired – meaning long Cheong Fatt Tze. It remains a as a starting point to help you Just a stone’s throw from pillars and high ceilings. As its in inner Georgetown, a walking sleeves and pants or long skirts private residence today, but decide which of Penang’s Penang’s ferry terminal, the Clan name suggests, the temple was tour of Penang’s Street Art is for women and a shirt with long also doubles as a 16-bedroom numerous historical sites you Jetties are a part of the island’s constructed in honour of Kuan not to be missed. Start your pants for men. bed-and-breakfast. The wish to visit. heritage trail and worth a visit. Yin, the Chinese Goddess of stroll from Muntri Street all the mansion is also open to Six jetties still stand today and Mercy but is also dedicated to way up to Weld Quay to enjoy visitors who simply wish to each one of them are named Ma Chor Poh, the patron saint London-trained Lithanian artist tour its unique architecture after a clan. The Chew Jetty is of seafarers. Ernest Zacharevic’s handiwork. It that melds the East and West thought to be the most tourist- was commissioned by the island with gothic louvred windows friendly of the lot, for being state’s municipal council in 2012, and art nouveau stained glass the most snap-worthy with the and has since breathed new life windows set alongside Chinese longest walkway and most into the century-old Chinese porcelain mosaics. stilt-houses. shop lots of the area.

Photo credits: Penang Heritage Trust - garmin.com.sg, Clan Jetties of Penang - Pleluzek/Flickr, Kuan Yin Temple - www.penang.ws Photo credits: Kapitan Keling Mosque - Wasin Waeosri/Flickr , Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion - Phalinn Ooi/Flickr 29 GTF FINAL WEEK HIGHLIGHTS30

ETIQUETTE: ANTHAR AGNI BY TEMPLE OF FINE ARTS DOS AND DON’TS 30 & 31 AUG 2017 | Dewan Sri Pinang | Music “A music and dance production that pays A QUICK GUIDE TO CULTURAL tribute to the sacred fire.” – Asia One CONSIDERATIONS AND BUSINESS ETIQUETTE THE ADVENTURES OF In Malaysia, the mix of cultures and a predominantly Muslim ALVIN SPUTNIK: population have resulted in a melting pot of in influences that are DEEP SEA EXPLORER reflected in local lifestyle practices and socially-acceptable norms. 30 & 31 AUG 2017 | Loft 29 | Theatre Penang may be as modern as most major cities in the world, but it exists within the context of a society that is generally considered “... akin to a theatrical Wall-E.” – The New York Times conservative. Here are some basic pointers to help you find your Photo © Ella Wright way around our cultural maze. Photo © Ban Teng Ruen THE MEMORIES 1 & 2 SEP | Gat Lebuh Macallum | Music

24 FESTIVE DRUMS’ FRANCE TOUR SHARING DO remove your shoes at the DON’T assume that all meetings DON’T bring pork to a Muslim EXPERIENCE WITH A PRIVATE SCREENING door when visiting someone’s and functions will start on time. home or an occasion where BY LIM CHEE YONG home. Most mosques and some The infamous ‘Malaysian time’ there are Muslim guests present, 1 & 2 SEP | Gat Lebuh Macallum | Music temples will require you to do does come into play often, or eat non-halal food in an the same. As an easy guide, if though not all the time. That area that’s frequented by many 2 SEP • 2:30pm you see many pairs of shoes at doesn’t mean you should aim Muslims. At the shopping malls, the entrance, you should leave to be late, however, but bring you will notice that most food yours there too. some reading materials to keep courts only serve halal fare. you company in case you need If pork is on the menu, those THE HUMAN VOICE 2 & 3 SEP 2017 | Loft 29 | Theatre to wait. stalls are normally parked in a separate area. Likewise, DON’T display affections supermarkets have a separate Photo © Peter Tan publicly. While it is acceptable section for non-halal food. for couples to hold hands and DO customise your food if you people to give each other quick wish when dining at street stalls friendly hugs, that’s about as and hawker centres. Malaysians THE DEAD TWIN far as it goes where PDA is love our food and we know DO feel free to greet someone. 2 & 3 SEP | Whiteaways Arcade | Theatre concerned. exactly how we like them. It is generally accepted to shake 28 AUG - 3 SEP | Whiteaways Arcade | Exhibition ‘More chili’, ‘No egg’, ‘Less bean hands, even with members of sprouts’ and ‘Kosong (no sugar)’ the opposite sex, particularly in a are common requests. Ask and business setting. However, some DO share a table when dining you shall receive. of the more religious Muslim out. It is common practice men may prefer to refrain from at local eateries such as the doing so. If you’re unsure, offer a Check out the ongoing @georgetownfestival mamak restaurants and Chinese smile and greeting, and let him exhibitions, performances and #GTF2017 #georgetownfestival kopitiams during peak hours. take the lead. films throughout the month. www.georgetownfestival.com If you see an empty spot at a table, just ask the person next to it if it’s available.

Zafigo X Ad.indd 1 9/8/2017 3:44:02 PM 31 32

SOUNDBYTES

MYTHS, STORIES AND LITTLE- KNOWN FACTS ABOUT PENANG Photo credits: Mark Meng/Flickr ISLAND, SOME STRAIGHT FROM AN ISLAND OF FIRSTS THE PENANGITES THEMSELVES • ●George Town is the first city in the Federation of Malaya; granted by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on January 1, 1957. (Also Known As Curry Mee (A.K.A. Curry Laksa) • ●Penang’s original name is Pulau Ka-satu (First Island) for being (A.K.A.) Har Mee) But why? Laksa is the old term the largest island encountered on the trading sea-route between But why? It is said that the first used for the /thick rice Lingga (in Indonesia) and Kedah. • ●The island state is also the first British outpost in South East Asia. wave of Chinese who arrived in vermicilli that is in the dish. In Hokkien Mee Photo credits: mmmsedap/Flickr Penang hailed from the Fujian Penang, assam laksa uses this • St George’s Church in Penang is the oldest Anglican church in (Hokkien) province in China. noodle hence why the locals South East Asia. This wave of migrants settled in refer to what other states call • Penang is the first state in Malaysia to launch the ‘No Plastic Bag and spread their cuisine. Kuala ‘curry laksa’ as curry mee. Day’ campaign. Lumpur didn’t get the note however as Central Peninsular /Cheh Hoo (A.K.A. has darker, stir fried variant. Indian ) SPOOKY ISLAND TALES But why? More popularly known Tok Tok Mee (A.K.A. as Indian rojak anywhere other Penang War Museum students from Chung Ling Wantan Mee) than Penang, pasembur is a Dubbed as Bukit Hantu or were killed on the grounds But why? In the good old popular Indian Muslim dish Ghost Hill, the Penang War thanks to the Chinese Malayan days, wantan mee was sold by that’s often indulged in by the Museum used to be a maternity massacre (yes, it was a thing). uncles who pushed their carts roadsides. In Chinese, it is also hospital in 1915. It became a This story breathed life to many while knocking bamboo sticks known as ‘cheh hoo’, which military defence fortress for the paranormal sightings that together making the ‘tok tok’ translates to raw fish, due to the British in the 1930s and was a spread hysteria until today. Tales sound. The name ‘tok tok mee’ variation where boiled cuttlefish British stronghold until it fell of headless students roaming eventually just stuck! is added. to the Japanese in 1941. In the the hallways or ghostly soldiers years after the war, the military marching in the school fields installation was abandoned, the run rampant. Stray dogs in the did you reputation of tortured soldiers area are also known to bare haunting the site alongside the their teeth and incessantly bark ghost of a crazy Japanese officer at what looks to be thin air late know ? kept locals away. The Penang at night. War Museum stands in its THE POPULATION COOL CHOOS • ●The name Penang comes place today, and as the guides Hantu Tetek or The Breast Ghost Penang’s population currently Penang is the birthplace of one from the Malay word ‘pinang’, will warn you, explore its dark Another superstition that parents stands at roughly 1.5 million of fashion’s living legends – meaning areca nut palm. corners at your own risk. use to keep their children people. Although Malaysia is Datuk Jimmy Choo. Born to a • ●Penang’s other name is the in check, the Hantu Tetek is predominantly made up of family of shoe-makers, Choo ‘Pearl of the Orient’ Chung Ling High School supposedly a ghostly hag who ethnic Malays, in Penang, ethnic made his first pair of shoes at • ●George Town is named after As a school that was actually (you’ve guessed it) is endowed Chinese make up the majority at the tender age of 11. He further King George III of Great Britain. used as a military hospital at with a gigantic bosom. The said over 43 per cent. honed his skill in London, • ●The Sultan Abdul Halim some point in its lifetime, ghostly chestal area is so large that if England, where he co-founded Muadzam Shah Bridge (or tales from this school is not she catches you out and about his eponymous shoe label. Penang Second Bridge) is the unusual. It is said that during at night, she’ll hold you hostage longest bridge in South East the Japanese Occupation of within her bosom and smothers Asia, stretching 24 kilometres. World War II, teachers and you to death with them. 33 34

MANGLISH 101

THE ZAFIGO GUIDE ON COMMON People LOCAL PHRASES AND HOW TO FUSE IT WITH THE don’t take ENGLISH LANGUAGE trips, trips maaf Terus nak Lapar B U take people K terima A – JOHN STEINBECK kiri kasih! N Learn our national language Try some Manglish Tip A special note to English Bahasa Malaysia is fairly easy In Malaysia, English is just speakers: 90 per cent of the to pick up as most words are as widely spoken as Bahasa time, ‘a’ is pronounced as in ‘fah- pronounced exactly as they are Malaysia or to be more accurate, ther’ and not ‘a’ as in ‘that’. The ‘e’ spelled. These are some basic it’s Manglish that you are likely to is usually pronounced as in ‘the’, words and phrases that can help hear us speak. Malaysian English, and only very occasionally as the you go a long way – or at least like its moniker suggests, is a ‘e’ as in ‘they’. endear you to the locals. mangled form of the language that can be confusing at first, Practice One of the simplest Terima kasih (tehr-ree-mah kah- but once you get the hang of forms of Manglish is the addition seeh): Thank you it, you’ll likely find it funny and of the suffix ‘lah’ (with the ‘a’ as in ” Maaf (mah-ahf): Sorry even practical. Manglish is father) to the end of sentences. Tak/Tidak (tahk/tee-dahk): No mostly standard English, though For example: Can lah (Sure, fine Boleh (bow-lay): Can it shares some similarities with by me) or no lah (No, of course Bukan (boo-kahn): Not pidgin English, with little added not). Kiri (kee-ree):Left suffixes and local colour. Kanan (kah-nahn): Right Terus (tehr-roos): Straight on Nak (nahk): Want Lapar (lah-pahr): Hungry Saya (sah-yah): I, or me Anda (ahn-dah): You Dia (dee-yah): He/she

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