JUNE 2013
PP13691/07/2013(032715)
New Age Dads Managing Editor / Publisher Datuk Gary Thanasan [email protected]
General Manager Lydia Teoh [email protected]
Senior Writer Marlina Azmi [email protected]
Writer Nicolette Ng [email protected]
Aviation News / Airlink Andrew Ponnampalam [email protected]
Designer Faidah Asmawi [email protected]
Designer Nurdiyana Zainal Abidin [email protected]
Makan2 june.indd 21 5/23/13 12:11 PM Shopping.indd 37 5/22/13 7:17 PM
Luxe ART & LIVING PREVIEW LUXE HEALTH & BEAUTY HEALTH Lounge area, be Urban Wellness Chuah Thean Teng, Dato’ (B. China, 1912 - 2008) Mothers and Child, 1970’s Batik 92 x 60 cm RM 90,000 - 130,000 Dato’ (B. China, 1912 - 2008) Mothers and Child, 1970’s Chuah Thean Teng,
44 Luxe Travel: New Zealand 48 Luxe Spa: be Urban Tew Nai Tong (B. Selangor, 1936-2013) 51 Luxe Shopping: Luxury Personal Shopper Harvest, 1990 52 Luxe Lifestyle: The Smokehouse, Oil on canvas 135 x 135 cm RM 22,000 - RM 32,000 The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Art Auction.indd 65 5/22/13 7:23 PM Health & Beauty.indd 95 5/23/13 6:34 PM
LUXE.indd 43 5/22/13 7:19 PM
CONTENTS - June 2013 Airport COO Speaks 57
Airline & Aviation Offices 58
Airport Talk: PROMOTING THE NORTH 60
Aviation News: ETIHAD AIRWAYS goes to Belgrade 62 New Amenity Kits at US AIRWAYS 62 AIR FRANCE lands at KLIA 63 GARUDA goes to Penang 64 JET AIRWAYS celebrates 20 Years 64 PLAZA PREMIUM opens in Kuching 65 More Aircraft for ETHIOPIAN 66 EVA AIR happy in Malaysia 66 DTWM meets in Kuala Lumpur 67 TURKISH AIRLINES arrives in Malaysia 68 OMAN AIR receives Unique Award 69 New Uniforms at QANTAS 69 PHILIPPINE AIRLINES returns to Malaysia 71
Flight Chat: GLOBAL ALLIANCES 72
Aviation Interview: Chandran Ramamuthy 73 Chief Executive Officer, Malindo
pg 47-66 Airlink white.indd 55 5/22/13 6:46 PM J U N E 2 0 1 3 Contents
FAVOURITES
4 Calendar 6 Editor’s Pick & Goings-On
FEATURES
12 Dedicated Daddies 18 Adventure Sports
24
12 MAKAN-MAKAN 40 22 Makan-Makan with Rina Omar Cover story 24 Ploy 26 Frontera sol of Mexico 28 Blu Med Dedicated 30 Pickle & Fig Daddies 32 Food Hunt: Eat, Drink & Be Merry Nazrudin Rahman, Adrian Loh and Ben Ibrahim 34 Street Food Hunt: Warung Aji-Don Alley share their stories on what it’s like being fathers 36 Sweet Indulgence: Sweet Cocktails with a hectic lifestyle. SHOPPING
5120CEL_MC_254778_Island Ad_M9.ai 1 23/05/1338 Hotpicks Women 90 42 Hotpicks Men
100 LUXE
44 Luxe Travel: New Zealand 48 Luxe Spa: be Urban 51 Luxe Shopping: Luxury Personal Shopper 52 Luxe Lifestyle: The Smokehouse, The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur
55 AIRLINK ART & LIVING
76 Malaysian Art Auction 2013, Edition IV 84 Expat Living 86 Hotel Review: The Royale Bintang Damansara 88 Hotel Review: Casa Del Rio 48 COVER 90 Celcom Launches 4G LTE Network 91 Andrea Bocelli Live in KL 92 WWF JUNE 2013 Cover: Ben Ibrahim, Adrian Loh HEALTH & BEAUTY and Naz Rahman 96 The Royale Spa Venue: The Smokehouse, The Majestic 98 Pushmore Crossfit Hotel Kuala Lumpur Background Art: LIFESTYLE GUIDE Ahmad Zakii Anwar, Vase (2006) 108 Reelview Hair & Make-up, photography by: Annie Pung, Michele Mun and 110 KL Map
PP13691/07/2013(032715) Nicholas Cheng from Snips 112 Getting Around KL New Age Dads Adrian Loh’s suit: Bonia GOINGS-ON
ARTS MUSICAL
BORAK ART THE MAGIC HORN SERIES – BREAKING At the invitation of the BOUNDARIES conductor, Sahara Bob (an Themed “Building Sustainability adventurer of questionable in Arts”, this inaugural character) brings his conference will focus on collection of exotic musical critical thinking and creative instruments to the concert. management of the performing Little does Sahara Bob arts with the goal of creating know the invitation is a trap, a network of collaborative for he is about to meet the efforts to push the Malaysian Tickets: RM20, RM40, genie of the magic horn, performing arts industry to the RM60, RM80 while the audience is about next level. to discover the power of 03-2051 7007 musical instruments. 15 & 16 June, Pentas 2, klpac www.mpo.com.my 8 June @ 3.00pm, 9 June Tickets: RM100 @ 2.30pm & 4.30pm, Dewan Filharmonik 03-4047 9000 PETRONAS, PETRONAS www.klpac.org « Twin Towers, KLCC « MUSIC CHILD AID ASIA 2013 Child Aid Malaysia Committee & The Actors Studio present a fund-raising concert for the Malaysian chapter of Child Aid Asia, in aid of Malaysian youth. Child Aid Asia is a regional charity helping economically disadvantaged children pay for creative Tickets: A minimum training and providing travel donation of RM60 grants for them to participate in
competitions and concerts. 03-4047 9000
www.klpac.org 31 May to 1 June @ 8:30pm, 2 June @ 3pm, Pentas 1, klpac «
THE MOON SPEAKS Tickets: Monday to FOR MY HEART Friday evenings and Savour the sweet music and Saturday matinees songs in this concert tribute – RM68, RM108, to the legendary Teresa RM148, RM188, Teng and be enchanted RM228, RM268 & by the musicianship and Saturday, Sunday voice of the multiple award- evenings and Sunday winning team of Dama. matinees – RM88, RM128, RM168, 14 to 23 June @ 8.30pm, RM208, RM248, 15, 16, 22 & 23 June RM288 Saturday & Sunday Matinees @ 3.00pm, 03-4047 9000 Pentas 1, klpac « www.klpac.org
6 l KL LIFESTYLE GOINGS-ON
3 CONDUCTORS, AN UNCOMMON JOURNEY 3-5 Joost Flach, Martin Rutherford and Cheryl Mah will bring us a unique repertoire that combines variety pieces ranging from Baroque fugue, folk song, and concert hymn to modern symphonic overture.
7 & 8 June @ 8.30pm, Pentas 1, klpac
Tickets: RM53, RM33 and RM23 (students and TAS card members)
03-4047 9000 www.klpac.org « «
HEINEKEN GREEN MUSIC ROOM Tickets: RM88 Heineken Green Room DASH BERLIN (Pre-Sale) & RM108 returns this June 15 at KL #musicislife WORLD (Door) TOUR 2013 IN Live with a cocktail of drums, dinosaurs & more! MALAYSIA www.heineken.com Dash Berlin is in town for 15 June @ 9pm, KL LIVE his #musicislife world tour this June, 15 at the Helipad, Sepang International Circuit. The Malaysian leg will see him performing an exclusive three hour set! The full line up includes MISCELLANEOUS international and regional acts – Lisa Lashes, Beat Service, Altuna, MisterAriffin and Adham Nasri.
15 June @ 5pm, Sepang International Circuit, The Helipad
Tickets: RM93 (Presale) & Cabana RM4,500 (including 15 entry tickets)
www.redtix.airasia.com «
3, 4, 10 & 11 June @ 8.30pm, WORLD’S BEST MOVIES Indicine, klpac Film buffs will be pleased that The Actors Studio will be revisiting some classic films from across the globe and Tickets: Free admission sharing them with you, all for free. This June, World’s Best Movies will be showcasing. Judas Kiss, a 2011 03-4047 9000 fiction drama film directed by J.T. Tepnapa and written www.klpac.org by Tepnapa and Carlos Pedraza. «
KL LIFESTYLE l 7
GOINGS-ON
THEATRE IN A NUTTYSHELL In a NUTTYSHELL tells a story of three friends from different races, religions and beliefs who discover they are not so different afterall. Funny, real and OUR MAN IN BEIJING Tickets: RM23 thought-provoking, IN A “Our Man in Beijing” is a NUTTYSHELL will make comedy about an Australian 03-4047 9000 you look at yourself in junior manager sent to Beijing www.klpac.org the mirror once more. to get a contract settled with a Chinese singer. Instead of a 7, 8, 14 & 15 June @ smooth course of proceedings, 8.30pm, Indicine, klpac
John finds many cultural « challenges for which he was ill-prepared to manage. In the midst of being navigated through the dangerous waters of many cross-cultural encounters by friends and foes alike, John falls in love.
7 & 8 June @ 8.30pm, 9 June @ 3pm, Pentas 2, klpac « Tickets: RM33, RM23 (Students, Disabled, TAS card Members)
BUNRAKU –
« TRADITIONAL JAPANESE PUPPET 28 June @ 8.30pm, THEATRE 29 June @ 3pm & Witness the grace and DOUBLE PUNCTUM 8.30pm, Pentas 2, grandeur of a 400-year- Pam Lim, William Mok together klpac old Japanese tradition, with director Loh Kok Man 3 to 23 June, klpac performed for the first and choreographer Ming Low, Tickets: From RM30 time ever in Southeast reveal the possibilities from the onwards Tickets: Free Asia. Bunraku- Traditional gaze of spectacular sceneries. Admission Japanese Puppet Theatre Hence, they decided to depart 03-4047 9000 is a showcase of fastidious
from photography, utilising www.klpac.org
03-4047 9000 teamwork as three photographs as elements to www.klpac.org puppeteers per puppet extend imageries of the work, « work in perfect unity with creating a double expose of live traditional music and photography and performing vocals. arts.
8 l KL LIFESTYLE
GOINGS-ON
COMEDY IN THE DARK A truly unique comedy experience where comedians take on the challenge of eliciting your laughter with the lights out. 1 1 June @ 3pm, PJ Live Arts, Jaya One
Tickets: RM35, RM30 (LIVE cardholders/ early bird)
017-228 9849 « www.tix.my
THE AGONY UNCLES « Join Laugh Guru Jon Atherton as he MEN IN TUTUS teams up with lovable local comic Who says ballet can’t Andrew Netto to field the most 15-17 be funny? This ultimate insensible, intimate, inappropriate send-up of both classical questions from the audience and 6 to 9 June @ and contemporary ballet try in their own inimitable way to 8.30pm, PJ Live Arts, is a great way to enjoy confuse the issues. Combined with Jaya One dance for the whole stand-up acts from this dynamic family. Laugh out loud as duo, this show will leave you in Tickets: RM100, ballerinos entertain and a therapeutic state of bliss and RM90 (LIVE astound you with their laughter! cardholders/ early combination of brilliant bird), RM380 for 4 dancing technique, 5 June @ 8.30pm, PJ Live Arts, regular seats tongue-in-cheek and Jaya One blatant humour with Tickets: RM50, RM70 (VIP), 017-228 9849 intentional foibles, RM45 (LIVE cardholders/ early www.tix.my dancing mishaps and, of bird), RM188 for 4 regular seats course, hissy fits!
017-228 9849 www.tix.my «
THE TALKATIVE TURTLE & OTHER STORIES Pipit the little songbird loves listening to stories, which the older songbirds tell him. Looking for food one day, Pipit gets caught by Beruk, the big monkey! Quick- thinking Pipit tries to make Beruk laugh with songs, jokes and stories he’s heard from the other travelling songbirds.
« LIKE THIS, 7 June @ 10AM, 8 June @ LIKE DAD 11AM, 9 June @ 2PM, PJ Live Join Malaysia’s favourite Arts, Jaya One “leng-chai” comedian Tickets: RM35, RM30 (LIVE Tickets: RM25 Kuah Jenhan in this cardholders/ early bird) hilarious paternal tribute in 017-228 9849 celebration of Father’s Day. 017-228 9849 www.tix.my www.tix.my 15 June @ 9PM, 16 June @ 5PM, PJ Live Arts, Jaya One
KL LIFESTYLE l 9 GOINGS-ON
CLASSICAL ENERGY AND EXUBERANCE The MPO’s Beethoven symphony cycle continues with the Fourth, a work of broad lyricism and surprising drama, and the Seventh, often called “the apotheosis of the dance” for its surging rhythmic energy and exuberance.
1 June @ 8.30pm & 2 June @
3.00pm, Dewan Filharmonik « PETRONAS, PETRONAS Twin GAWAI DAYAK Towers, KLCC FESTIVAL Gawai Dayak is a harvest Tickets: RM50, RM80, RM120, festival celebrated by RM160 1 & 2 June, the state’s indigenous Throughout Sarawak people, particularly the 03-2051 7007 Ibans and Bidayuhs, in www.mpo.com.my 082-423 600 their traditional costumes. www.tourism.gov.my Ceremonial offerings of 1-2 various local traditional « delicacies and ‘tuak’ are made to the gods of rice and prosperity. This unique festivity is a ‘must-see’ « occasion for local and 25-30 foreign tourists alike. MELAKA RIVER FIESTA Inspired by the San Antonio River Festival in the USA, Melaka International River Festival 2013 is back for the whole month of June. The festival aims to promote Melaka in general, particularly the Melaka River and monorail that travels from the Spice Garden to Dataran Hang Tuah. 25 May to 30 June, Melaka
www.tourism.gov.my « SABAH DRAGON BOAT RACE This exciting race has
attracted many local and
AROUND MALAYSIA international teams from as far as Hong Kong, China « and Japan. Also, look out for the most popular Dragon Boat delicacy – rice KK JAZZ FESTIVAL dumplings filled with water The jazz musical chestnuts and minced meat! extravaganza in Kota 14 & 15 June, Sutera Kinabalu is back with Harbour Marina, Golf 12 & 16 June, Likas Bay, a line-up of local and and Country Club’s Kota Kinabalu, Sabah international artistes! The Tennis Arena, Sabah Kota Kinabalu Jazz Festival www.sabahdragonboat.my 2013 is now a signature www.kkjazzfest.com event of Sabah which represents many different facets of jazz music.
10 l KL LIFESTYLE GOINGS-ON
PAHANG INTERNATIONAL BIRD RACE Think you can differentiate the birds from their chirps and tweets? Come join us the Pahang International Bird Race 2013 to sight, identify and record the most number of bird species! Over 250 species of birds from as far as northern Siberia and the islands north of Japan can be seen in the cool highlands of Fraser’s Hill.
21 to 23 June, Fraser’s Hill, Raub, Pahang
09-516 1007 « www.pkbf.org.my 22-30 « PUTRAJAYA FLORIA “MAGIC OF THE NIGHT” Popularly known as Floria 1MALAYSIAN Putrajaya, the Putrajaya Flower INTERNATIONAL and Garden Festival 2013 is 22 to 30 June, TOURISM NIGHT here to showcase the best of Putrajaya Lake, Presint FLORAL PARADE the landscape and horticulture 2, Putrajaya, Kuala Witness a procession of industry; from commercial Lumpur beautifully lighted and landscape products to garden decorated boats that cruise design and flower displays! 03-8891 7000 across the Putrajaya Lake www.tourism.gov.my every night. Main activities 22 to 30 June, Waterfront Precint of the event include night 2, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur floral boat photography contest, fireworks display www.ppj.gov.my and cultural group « performances. AROUND MALAYSIA
« 1MALAYSIA MEGA RAINFOREST WORLD « SALE CARNIVAL MUSIC FESTIVAL Within this two-month With a line-up of 18 bands shopping period, shoppers playing a diverse range of world 29 June to get the advantage to 28 to 30 June, music genres, the festival features 1 September, enjoy irresistible offers and Sarawak Cultural seven different acts per night over Throughout Malaysia great discounts from luxury Village, Kuching, three nights. For the afternoon brands to affordable items Sarawak session, there will be programmes 03-2614 8691 all put together by malls such as informative workshops, www.tourism.gov.my and retail stores throughout www.rwmf.net ethno-music lectures and jamming Malaysia. Shop, eat and sessions. It’s a smashing time in celebrate! the heart of the Borneo Jungle!
KL LIFESTYLE l 11 COVER STORY
12 l KL LIFESTYLE COVER STORY
Dedicated Daddies
Nazrudin Rahman, Adrian Loh and Ben Ibrahim share their stories on what it’s like being fathers with a hectic lifestyle.
By: Marlina Azmi
Over the years, there has been a growing interest in the role of fathers in their children’s lives following years of neglect when the spotlight was focused firmly on the mothers’ role. Fathers’ roles are evolving in response to substantial social and economic changes over the past few decades. These include large numbers of mothers entering employment and families becoming more diverse and fluid in form.
We listen to three fathers with almost similar lifestyles on how they handle the challenges of fatherhood in a modern age. All decked in suits and ties, we met up with single father of twins, model and entrepreneur Adrian Loh father of two, TV personality Nazrudin Rahman and first-time father, TV personality Ben Ibrahim at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s dapper, The Smokehouse to casually chat about juggling their career with their active paternity role at home.
KL LIFESTYLE l 13 COVER STORY
A blessed dad Nazrudin Rahman
Naz with wife, Sheahnee, daughter, Zara and son, Zakry
my children and very good with kids. It’s just a matter of being good at splitting your attention,” said Naz.
Naz foresees this will be the new way of raising children as he feels getting foreign help will not last forever as it is not something economically viable as time goes by. The chatty TV host encourages parents, especially the ones who are used to having maids to try out this method. He acknowledges that it is tiring but he believes it is so much more rewarding, especially when your kids hug you before bedtime saying, ‘I love you’. Their method of raising their kids could be the very reason why his daughter is so much like him. Should the world be worried, we asked. “It’s uncanny that her characteristics, her mannerism and her facial expression are exactly like mine when I was young. I don’t think the novelty will ever wear off, so the world better watch out,” he cheekily replied. When Nazrudin Rahman aka Naz got married balance his work life and being a father at the to wife, Sheahnee Iman Lee, their plan was same time with the help of a domestic maid Being a father in the modern age comes with to start a family right away but life doesn’t and he’s not complaining about it at all. His additional worries, especially with the increase always go according to plans. Sheahnee’s first daily routine involves going to the studio to fulfil of child kidnapping cases and such. “I think like pregnancy didn’t work out as she experienced his duty as a host for NTV7’s, The Breakfast most parents out there, our main concern would a miscarriage. The couple was more than Show every morning. His other commitments be their safety. Gone are the days where we ecstatic when they found out they were include being a freelance voiceover talent and can tell our children to go to our neighbour’s expecting their first child, Zara Aaliyah in early if he isn’t committed to any project, he heads house or go play in the park. Of course with 2010. “With Zara, she was an elation, a straight home to take over parenting duties, the Internet and social media, our children godsend, a miracle in a sense as my wife had especially if wife, Sheahnee has to go off and aren’t equipped to handle such maturity, so the problems conceiving, so we looked at Zara as get her work done. challenge for parents, is monitoring things,” our redemption. I didn’t even think about how said Naz. “These are just some of the things I was going to cope with this. All our efforts in “It’s all about coordinating and the positive that the new age parents worry about and all terms of planning our career were skewed to part is that no two days are alike. It’s all about I can pray for is that my children inherit some Sheahnee having this baby. She quit her job constant communication and trying to make of my good sense. We should teach and to be a full-time mother and I decided to take things work. My wife and I started an online expose them to as many things as possible on that responsibility of providing for my family baby store, Buggy Baby Boogie, and recently and stay close to them so that if they encounter without having EPF, so that makes it doubly we had a booth at a mum and baby expo any difficulties in life, they will not be afraid hard,” said Naz. over a weekend, so she had to be at the venue to come to us. I don’t want my children to be to run the sales and I was at home with both afraid to approach me with anything or be too Now a father of two with with the addition of children and it’s an experience which I think is traumatised to relay their experiences to me,” one-year-old Zakry Aiman, Naz works hard to not for everyone. Fortunately, I’m in love with he added.
14 l KL LIFESTYLE COVER STORY
Brand new dad Ben Ibrahim brilliant.” The couple continued to enjoy each her nappy but from my experience the other Ben with daughter, Kyla other’s company during the first eight months day, if she cried this much, she wanted her of 2012 and it was a call Ben received on nappy changed and I was right. That part was August 4 that changed their life. scary but I’m getting better as the months go by, especially with added confidence,” said Ben. “My wife called me crying and when I heard her on the phone like that I was like, ‘I’m sorry Despite the new changes, Ben is adapting to for whatever I did’ and then she said, ‘no love, fatherhood very well and gets involved in taking I’m pregnant’. I was shocked because it was care of the baby. Before Kyla came along, Ben meant to be a 2013 action plan and not a and Sofia used to come home from work and 2012 one but you know, you can’t actually spent time with each other cooking, watching plan these things. We both went to the doctor the telly and catch up on each other’s day. for a second opinion and it was right and we Nowadays, Ben would come home, bathe the consided it as ‘rezeki’ and you can’t argue with baby, feed her and the cycle continues. a gift from God”, Ben recalled. “It’s like working in shifts. As I am working man, Being a father for the first time comes with my wife gets to see Kyla all day at the moment. certain challenges, especially when your job I work until very late, so my time with our baby requires you to work long and unpredictable is limited but I try my best to get all these things hours. Ben Ibrahim has been working as a done for her. I don’t want to end up being a TV presenter since 2005, when a chance typical dad that just works, works, works and encounter with a TV show producer launched don’t spend much time with his child, especially his career in the broadcasting, entertainment when people say that these are the best years and journalism industry. He is currently hosting and all,” Ben explained. A first-time father at the age of 35, Ben Ibrahim a business programme called Entrepreneur and his wife, Sofia Cinta Lee, celebrated the on Astro Awani, and is a commentator for the Ben hopes that Kyla and himself will be really birth of their daughter, Kyla Natasha on March Asean Basketball League, which is aired on good friends in the future. But based on what 31, 2013. The news of his wife’s pregnancy ESPN. he’s heard, children will always try to push was indeed an unexpected one. When Ben boundaries, so his plan is to be a firm friend and Sofia tied the knot in October 2011, they “At the start when our daughter cried, we didn’t and not a pushover father. One of his traits had plans on having fun, enjoying their married know what to do. Was she hungry, did she that he would like his daughter to follow is his life first doing the things they both love, which need a burp or diaper change or did she want hardworking nature. “It’s a bit of a cliché but if is travelling. “What I mean when I say have fun us to carry her around? It was challenging you’re not a natural at something, work hard is go travelling and just enjoy life, which we because she couldn’t tell you what she needed, at it instead of saying I’m not good at it. That’s did! We went to Singapore for like four times, so you really had to read between the lines. an easy way out but diligence is my strength,” Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Melbourne and it was One night my wife asked me why I changed said Ben.
KL LIFESTYLE l 15 COVER STORY
Super single dad Adrian Loh
Model and entrepreneur, Adrian Loh, 33, decided on a career change in 2010 and this was a decision he made based on the dual responsibility he carries as both father and mother. Adrian and his partner welcomed twins, Nathaniel Asher Loh Chu Sheng and Evan Alexander Chu Xian on May 16, 2008. “I’m no longer attached to anyone. I’m a single father right now. The first time I heard we were expecting twins, I thought, wow, I’m going to be a father already? This is a part of my dream and of course I was surprised and shocked but definitely felt happy more than anything. I had to give up my freedom for one but in all honesty, nobody is really ready to be a father but it’s an everyday learning experience,” shared Adrian.
The bigger challenge in raising twins for Adrian is financial. With twins, everything has to be bought in sets of twos. “I have to buy everything in pairs. And if one of the twins is ill, the other gets ill too. But my motto is double the effort, double the satisfaction and double the happiness,” he said. To support his family unit, Adrian started his first business in savings in 2010 and launched his beauty solution business just a year ago for additional income. But Adrian isn’t a dad that is all work and no play. He loves spending time with his sons, doing a lot of the things he likes doing. Playing both parental roles, Adrian is a spot-on father and is involved in bathing and dressing his sons, feeding them and also teaches them religious values by taking them to church.
“It’s all about giving the right balance. God gives us 24 hours in a day, so it’s up to us on how we can fully utilise them. I play a dual role of mother and father to the twins and I do find it challenging to be honest and very interesting at the same time. They are quite a handful. They are boys after all. I’m constantly discovering new things about my kids and myself,” said Adrian.
Adrian is more comfortable as a father these days as his businesses are running the way he wants it, which makes it easier to become an involved parent at the same time. “I like being active with the boys. We often go for swims, watch TV together and they like showing me their colouring work too,” he said.
We were not “successful in securing a maid before the baby came but found a very good day-care centre that helps the baby’s development. ”
16 l KL LIFESTYLE Adrian with twins, Nate and Evan COVER STORY
Quick questions Ben, Adrian and Naz answered some quick questions after a fairly serious interview session.
What would you do if you were given the day off from being a daddy for one day? Ben Ibrahim: I would go for a reflexology session. Adrian Loh: I’ll use that time to improve on my guitar and singing skills. My latest obsession is singing Bruno Mars’ ‘If I Was Your Man’, which all the girls are going gaga over. I saw Candice Glover singing it on American Idol and I thought it sounded great when she sang it, so that was when I decided to practise the song. Aside from that, I’d probably head to the bookstore, swim or take a walk somewhere to enjoy some nature.
Nazrudin Rahman: I would go out and buy myself a motorcycle with maximum power called a Ducati, which I will ride really slowly. Now that’s the hurdle right now, convincing my wife that I need to have a motorcycle.
Who’s your favourite father figure? B: I would have to say David Beckham. He is very successful at what he does at the age of 38 and he is a loving father at the same time and doesn’t let the glamour life dictate their life at home. He’s a very good father, from what I’ve read. He makes sure they finish their homework, eat properly and is good at disciplining them. I think he’s a role model for a lot of fathers especially high-profile ones. To him, the words ‘I’m too busy’ doesn’t exist. If he can do it, I’m sure we all can. A: There are a lot of father figures out there. To name someone close and a realistic one would be my father. My father has gone through a lot and has been there for me through good and bad times and apart from him, I see President Obama as a good father figure.
N: Believe it or not, my favourite father figure is Bill Be honest, what can daddy do better like me, I can play soccer, basketball and I can Cosby in The Cosby Show back then. Even at a than mummy? swim but whatever they choose, I will definitely young age, I could appreciate the fact that wow, back them up. he never got angry with his kids and they always B: Sing, surprisingly. The second one is to run to N: Football of course, there’s no such thing as got into trouble and there was always a lesson to the kitchen to get hot water and the third one is to gender biase. You know, according to Malay be learned at the end of the show. I know it’s a TV run to the toilet to get the tissue and cloth if Kyla tradition, after the birth, you should bring the show but secretly thought to myself, man I wish he accidentally throws up. placenta home and wrap it in a piece of cloth were my dad. A: I can sing, I can take the boys swimming and then bury it. For girls, the wrap will include because mummy doesn’t know how and I would a needle and thread, a bit of salt and ‘asam’, so Which bad a** father are you? Liam like to believe I clean them better too. they can cook. For me I sealed all that with an Neeson in Taken, Russell Crowe in Arsenal FC sticker, the greatest football club in the Gladiator or Darth Vader? N: This is a tough one! I dare say I make better milk because they always seem to finish the ones world. She must embrace it, Gunners for life! Now B: I was told a couple of weeks ago when I was I mix and I’m also a better disciplinarian because she runs to the TV and scream GOAL, just like me. refereeing a football match, I injected the fear of the kids listen to me more than her. My wife is God into them so I’ll go with Liam Neeson. hard to top. She’s pretty good. What do you plan to do on Father’s Day? A: I would say Darth Vader because everyone sees him as an evil character but he’s still a father. What kind of sports/activity would you B: I’d like to go out to somewhere like Publika or He died at the end of the movie and unmasked want your children to follow? KLCC, with both grandparents and have nice cake himself, and it was one touching moment. B: My brothers and I love sports and we told and coffee and enjoy the day really. N: It’s definitely Russell Crowe! I’ve never been one ourselves when we have kids regardless of boys A: I’m not too sure if I’ll be around on that day but to shout out orders because I’ve always preferred or girls, they must be active in sports like us. In if I am, I’ll probably take them to enjoy nature or reasoning with my kids. If Zara did something Malaysia, not everyone is sporty especially the go for a short getaway. wrong, I would ask why she did that when she girls but I’ll make sure Kyla will get into some kind N: I won’t ask for much, I want what all fathers knew something bad would happen. My usually of sport for fun or passion. Basketball would be want, 16 hours of uninterrupted sleep. I love all of listen and come up with their own conclusion so, great so we can shoot some hoops before dinner. you but just give me my sleep. therefore I am a Maximus. A: That’s a hard one because their interests are different. I hope they will pick up a sport because
KL LIFESTYLE l 17 You don’t have to travel far to indulge in these adrenaline- pumping activities that’s easily available in Malaysia. Thrill Seeking Adventures
Kite surfing 1 Kite surfing known as kite boarding is a blend of wakeboarding and windsurfing. Balok beach, strategically situated in the heart of Kuantan, Pahang and at the crossroad between East and West, has attracted dozens of surfers from all over the country so much so that the state even hosts the acclaimed Windsurfing and Kitesurfing Regatta annually over a span of three days.
18 l KL LIFESTYLE Hiking The vast Malaysian jungles and national parks offer a substantial amount of hiking opportunities and the chance to spot wildlife at the same time. There are a variety of landscapes, each with its own wildlife and ecosystem to explore, including rainforests, mangrove swamps and rockymountains. You can start with forest reserves like Bukit Gasing and Broga Hills before tackling the prized objective, Mount Kinabalu in Sabah. 2
Rock climbing 3 Most people don’t realise that rock climbing has been taking place in Malaysia since 1964, when climbers started to scale Mount Kinabalu’s rugged granite peaks. Nearer to Kuala Lumpur, quartzite ridges of the Klang Gates have been scaled since 1973. Although there are unlimited rocks climbing opportunities in Malaysia, this sport is actively promoted only at 11 spots across nine states.
White water rafting 4 White water rafting is a challenging recreational outdoor activity of using an inflatable raft to navigate a river or other bodies of water. Feel the sheer excitement of careening along a churning mass of white foam or the thrill of being tossed in a ranging rapid. Some of the best spots to check this out are Sungai Selangor in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Sungai Kampar in Gopeng, Perak, Taman Negara Endau Rompin and Sungai Kelmin in Terengganu. KL LIFESTYLE l 19 Skydiving 5 Skydiving is not for the faint hearted but if you are a thrill-seeker, you will be skydiving for the rush of adrenalin, the excitement and the thrill of freefalling at over 200 kmph. The simplest way to learn skydiving in Malaysia and to experience it to its full potential without the worry of training is by signing up to do a tandem skydive with a professional. If you’re interested in taking lessons, check out Skydive KL or Skydive Malaysia for options.
6 Scuba diving Scuba diving is an overwhelming experience especially when being underwater with unknown creatures and an abundance of coral reefs. It’s not hard to obtain a diving licence. The PADI Open Water Diver course comes in three phases. First is Knowledge Development; to understand basic principles of scuba diving, then it’s the Confined Water Dives to learn basic scuba skills, and lastly it’s the Open Water Dives to review your skills and explore!
Paintball Paintball is one of the most popular outdoor 7 participation sports around. The good thing about paintball is that everyone or anyone can play. There are no special requirements needed. Paintball combines the elements of two childhood games, tag and hide-and-seek. Given the nature of those two games, paintball is for people who want to experience the unique rush that participation sports give, minus physical contact.
20 l KL LIFESTYLE Techny-tini & Hookah Alternative, Aloft KualaTechny-tini Lumpur Sentral
22 Makan-Makan with Rina Omar 24 Ploy 26 Frontera sol of Mexico 28 Blu Med 30 Pickle & Fig 32 Food Hunt: Eat, Drink & Be Merry 34 Street Food Hunt: Warung Aji-Don Alley 36 Sweet Indulgence: Sweet Cocktails MAKAN-MAKAN WITH THE STARS
Rina Omar Father’s Day is just around the corner and this bubbly TV personality decides to treat her dad to a hearty meal at their favourite restaurant, Serai.
By : Nicolette Ng
ina Omar and her father recently agreed to favoured choices. “When we first brought my dad meet us at one of their favourite restaurants, here, I was quite worried that he might not like RSerai in Paradigm Mall. As the pair walked it as he likes his comfort zone and it’s sometimes in with a warm smile on their faces, I could sense hard for him to accept a new place. But I like this that the duo has a very close bond and I was place, so I was hoping he would too. Luckily, he right. According to Rina, her family is close-knit did!” said Rina. and they meet up every weekend for a family outing or dinner with mom’s cooking at home. Her dad’s favourites at Serai include the Spicy Thai Rice, the Serai Tasting Platter and the Being a family that loves food, their family outings Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce that he couldn’t get would normally involve going to a restaurant enough of. “It’s not so much about the fish, but the for a nice meal and Serai has been one of their sauce is just superb!” exclaimed Omar. He likes
22 l KL LIFESTYLE MAKAN-MAKAN WITH THE STARS
Spicy Thai Rice
Steamed Fish with Lime Sauce
Serai Restaurant Lot 07, Level 1 Boulevard, Paradigm Mall, Kelana Jaya Serai Tasting Platter the sauce so much that he once went up to the content producer of Masterchef Malaysia, she’s staff at Serai to ask for an extra bowl of the sauce, always on the lookout for a good restaurant where which he enjoyed as a bowl of soup. the contestants can be rewarded with a learning experience. Besides restaurant hopping, she also A regular at the restaurant during the dinner rush, needs to come up with the challenges for every Rina and her family members always make sure episode of the show. Sometimes I go to each and everyone of them order something different from the menu so that they can try each When asked if she turned to her mom for tips “my mom and ask her other’s choise. And since most of them are foodies, since her mom is such a great cook, Rina said, if I can prepare a certain they also have additional ones to share in the “Sometimes I go to my mom and ask her if I can centre. Besides the food, the family enjoys dining prepare a certain dish in X amount of time to see dish in X amount of time to at Serai because of its friendly staff who are very if it’s doable for a challenge. But she’s a big fan of see if it’s doable for a accommodating towards their customers’ requests. the show, so she’s always trying to get me to tell her what’s going to happen in the show, which I challenge. But she’s a big fan Serai serves an impressive selection of East-meets- can’t.” of the show so she’s always West cuisine, including Malaysian favourites trying to get me to tell her like satay and kerabu. One of the more unique Rina’s dad is also a good helper in the kitchen dishes at Serai is the Beef Rendang Penne, which and he does all the marketing for the past 30 what’s going to happen in the combines a famous local delicacy with a touch of plus years. “I used to follow my dad to the market show, which I cant. Italian. and the pasar malam, where I watched him take forever to buy a fish. Even with the vegetables, he Rina first found Serai when she was working on handpicked one by one. Now, I’m incorporating ” the second season of Masterchef Malaysia. As the the same thing when I go marketing,” said Rina.
KL LIFESTYLE l 23 Ploy Asian with a twist
By : Nicolette Ng
Smoke Duck Breast with Chicken Ham Pizza
G-02 Ground Floor WORK@clearwater, Changkat Semantan, Off Jalan Semantan, Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 03 2095 0999 . Fax: 03 2095 9181
24 l KL LIFESTYLE Ploy’s dishes cater to “taste buds that embrace Asian spices in not-so- Asian dishes and they recommend you to always order a variety of dishes and share them within the table, Asian style.”
Tuna Wakame Salad
he brainchild of Asian private you to always order a variety of thirst on a sunny afternoon. The the taste was just as exquisite as equity investor, Jared Lim, Ploy dishes and share them within the sweetness of the tea blended with the strong aroma. Tis the result of years of travel, table, Asian style. fresh strawberries was just perfect experimentation and unadulterated for my liking. But if you are in the My personal favourite from the gluttony. The avid foodie spent It has been almost two years since mood for some alcohol, Ploy’s new selection was of course six months, conducting daily food Ploy opened its doors to food Pardon My Pandan is a must-try. the Smoked Duck Breast With tasting with Chef Daniel Yong to enthusiasts and recently, I finally Chicken Ham Pizza. A thin crust come up with a menu built entirely had the chance to meet with the With a drink in hand, I was all set pizza topped with avocado from scratch with over 60 offerings, passionate team who battles in the to down some food and started paste – which I absolutely love – influences that span four continents kitchen with their pots and pans to with a Tempura Surprise, which is instead of tomato, this pizza is a and over 35 new and original come up with their latest creations seabass wrapped in Oba leaf, and refreshing experience for pizza sauces. to add to their already impressive the Kabocha Tempura, a serving of fans, especially those who love menu. salted egg pumpkin tempura, which avocados. Ploy’s dishes cater to taste buds that is a perfect combination of sweet embrace Asian spices in not-so- To kick-start my meal, I ordered a and saltiness on a plate. I also Other must-try new items are Asian dishes and they recommend Strawberry Ice Tea to quench my had a Tuna Wakame Salad with the Crab In A Wrap and the the slightly tangy and spicy Sesame Magic Puff. The Magic Puff is a Shoyu dressing as well as a Golden homemade crispy pastry that goes Needle Salad with Wafu dressing. “crunch” when you bite into it, topped with goat cheese, truffle oil All these for starters, you say? and wild rocket. Yes, but not just for me. I had my loyal comrades to dine with me Every meal, of course, will not and these dishes were perfect for be complete without dessert and sharing. I ended my meal at Ploy with an exciting new dessert experience Done with the starters, it was time from a serving of liquid nitrogen to order the mains. My orders ice-cream. Available in various included a Salmon Don called The flavours including rum and raisin Godfather Special and the Pasta and Horlicks, the liquid nitrogen From Heaven, a portion of sakura ice-cream has a solid texture, unlike ebi angel hair in truffle oil. I can the prepacked ice-cream that you smell the rich truffle oil as the waiter find in stores. brought the dish to the table and
Tempura Surprise Crab in a Wrap
KL LIFESTYLE l 25 Frontera Sol of Mexico Authentic Mexican and Tex Mex cuisine
By : Marlina Azmi
Baja-Style Fish Tacos
18-G-2, Palm Square, Jaya One, 72A Jalan Universiti, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Opening Hours: Monday hours 11:00 am - 1:00 am Contact: 03-7958 8515
26 l KL LIFESTYLE Habanero Hot Wings
guacamole, beef bacon, melted fused with Sauza Hornitos 100% Monterey Jack cheese and blue agave tequila and you’ll mayonnaise just spells out burger find yourself savouring it to the perfection. last drop. Another must try is the chocolate cake; a brilliant shooter If you’re in the mood for some concoction of vodka, Frangelico, cocktail indulgence, word around lemon and sugar that gives out a town is that they serve one of the taste of, you guessed it, chocolate best margaritas and we the verdict cake in your throat, making it one is in, the claims are true. These of our favourite desserts around Beancurd Stick with Basil Leaves strong and sweet concoctions are town. Chocolate Cake Shooter
here are restaurants that boast when they say its hot! Glazed with of their authentic cuisine and their signature Habanero BBQ Tthen you end up leaving utterly sauce, the chicken wings really disappointed but that’s not the case pack a punch. The cilantro ranch with this gem tucked in the bustling dressing served with the chicken area of Petaling Jaya. Previously does help as it takes some of the called Frontera Bar and Grill, this spicy edge off your tongue with its authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex cooling taste. We were privileged joint now known as Frontera to try out two new dishes that have Sol of Mexico has been sitting set to be added into the amazing comfortably at Jaya One since they line-up of goodies this month. The first opened their doors in 2008. first on the list is the Baja-Style Fish Tacos. Deep-fried in beer batter, It’s not hard not to see the appeal the dory fish is a delight as the of Frontera, as you’ll instantly feel crust perfectly fried is placed in welcomed with pure Mexican your choice of either crispy corn vibes upon reaching the entrance. or soft flour tortillas accompanied The cosy interior features a distinct by marinated cabbage, cilantro, Mexican theme with agave plants tomatoes, chipotle ranch dressing, and pictures of Latin influence as Monterey Jack Cheese and lime. amazing decors. The restaurant features a lot of the all time Next we tried the Chicken Avocado favourites consisting of mainly Burrito, which is also new on their meat with the usual chicken and menu beginning of this month. This fish dishes. At very favourable amazingly refreshing dish isn’t like prices, Frontera serves up hot and your regular burrito as they have deliciously spicy chicken wings, removed the fried beans in and juicy burgers, healthy burritos and replaced it with avocado and sour sumptuous tacos as a part of their cream to give it the same moisture menu. the fried beans would have. If you’ve got serious beef craving, the We kicked started our meal with Texas BBQ Burger should do the a fan favourite, the Habanero Hot trick. A combination of Frontera’s Wings and they are not kidding cantina burger with freshly made Chicken Avocado Burrito & Texas BBQ Burger
KL LIFESTYLE l 27 Blu Med Ristorante E Bar Where creativity meets food
By : Nicolette Ng
Chocolate Gateau
Ground Floor, The Boulevard, Mid Valley City, Kuala Lumpur Opening Hours: 7am to 12am Contact: 03-2201 5081
28 l KL LIFESTYLE Strategically “located at the crossway between Mid Valley and The Gardens where the fountain is, Blu Med Ristorante E Bar is Texchem Group of Companies’ latest venture. ”
Fish Carpaccio with Orange and Salmon Roe Bread and dip
trategically located at the crossway Sauca. I had the Fish Carpaccio, a house between Mid Valley and The Gardens specialty featuring the smooth Marukoban fish Swhere the fountain is, Blu Med Ristorante with orange, salmon roe and some greens that E Bar is Texchem Group of Companies’ latest gave me an explosion of flavours in every bite. venture. Unlike its already famous Japanese restaurants Miraku, Goku Raku Ramen and An Italian menu is never complete without pastas Sushi King, Blu Med is the group’s first non- and the chef at Blu Med makes sure of that. Japanese outfit. Pasta selections at the restaurant range from the basic Linguine Carbonara with Beef Bacon Blu Med may have an Italian executive chef to to the more complex Edamame Risotto with handle the stove, but the restaurant’s menu is Parmesan Cheese or the Homemade Ravioli of overseen by a Japanese celebrity chef, Yasuhiro Duck Ragout. Those with post taste buds can try Sasajima who appeared in Iron Chef and the Homemade Tagliolini with Sea Urchin. currently owns multiple well-received restaurants in Kyoto and Tokyo. That explains the use of Starting from RM38 for a main, try dishes like Japanese ingredients such as Marukoban fish, Roasted Duck with Yam and Burdock Root Konbu stock as well as sea urchin in the pasta Fricassee Style, Tapenade Sauce, Pan-Fried although Blu Med’s food more consciously Red Snapper with Steamed Lobster, Anchovy leans towards Italian and Mediterranean and Herb Sauce as well as the Grilled Smoke influences. Flavoured Salmon with Spinach and Poached Egg. For a unique taste experience, the Baked The Japanese star chef designed the Sasajima Marukoban Fish with Puree of Morning Glory, lunch and dinner menus separate from the ala Celery and Cherry Tomato definitely makes the carte list at Blu Med, which is also known as cut. Homemade Ravioli of Duck Ragout the Grand Menu. Blu Med also serves a good choice of tapas While the choices are kept minimal, the and drinks if you’re looking to chill out with a From June onwards, Blu Med will be serving menu lives up to its name with the luxurious bunch of friends on a Saturday night. And for a buffet-style Sunday brunch from 11am to ingredients used in every dish. For starters, the sweet-toothed, the selection of desserts at Blu 3pm where you can enjoy an elegant meal at there are the Fish Carpaccio with Orange and Med, which includes a Chocolate Gateau, Earl the restaurant after sleeping in on a weekend. Salmon Roe, Insalata Caprese, Seafood Salad Grey Brulee, Walnut Mousse with Coffee Jelly Prices are at RM88++ for adults and RM33++ and Steamed Chicken Breast with Checca and many more, is definitely enough to put you for children aged eight and below. on a sugar high.
KL LIFESTYLE l 29 Pickle & Fig All natural goodness
By : Marlina Azmi
Avocado Mixed Greens with Raspberry Vinaigrette
No.26, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 2, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur Opening Hour: 10am-10pm, Fridays & Saturdays - 11pm Tel: 03-2858 9960
30 l KL LIFESTYLE Coronation Chicken
he suburban dwellers in Taman Tun Dr. a very unique salad and two refreshing glasses Ismail have been experiencing an increase of smoothies. The first on the menu was the light of chic eateries opening in the area within and refreshing Avocado Mixed Greens with T Raspberry Vinaigrette. This lovely salad is a the past few years. One of the latest additions to this amazing line-up of out-of-the-norm cafes is mixture of mesclun salad, sliced avocados and Pickle & Fig. toasted almonds mixed with a delicious mixture of freshly made raspberry vinaigrette. It was Situated along Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 2, Pickle indeed a yummy teaser before hitting on the & Fig finds itself at one of the best spots that sandwiches. easily leads students, working executives and families to its doors. The café is owned by two The main stars of the café are the made- lads who thrive on providing their customers to-order sandwich spreads. For RM15, the nothing but yummy delicacies made from fresh Coronation Chicken teases the taste buds ingredients that require less or no garnishing with its combination of sliced chicken breast, and condiment. Their specialties are great caramelised onions, raisins, alfalfa sprouts and salads, light bites, made-to-order sandwiches the coronation sauce, a mixture of mayonnaise, (hot-pressed Panini, ciabattas, hummus stuffed) mango, mango chutney and curry powder all and thirst-quenching and filling smoothies. crammed in between two slices of ciabatta.
Boasting a minimal theme of décor, Pickle & Fig Our favourite pick is the Rotkraut Pastrami doesn’t just feature healthy options of food and sandwich. Available at RM19, this toasted piece drinks to its customers, it is also an apt location of beef goodness combines beef pastrami, for people to catch up with each either whether rotkraut red cabbage and mozzarella cheese for business or pleasure. The spacious café with topped with Russian dressing on any piece of a calm environment is decked with assorted bread of your choice. The sandwiches come furniture of various designs to ensure comfort with a portion of hand-cut, triple-cooked, steamy- dining for customers. Whether you like it on chunky potato wedges. stool, cushion or bench, all these options are perfect for you to chill out. Customers are also Complement your meal with their iced cold Fret not all you caffeine addicts and coffee encouraged to express themselves at the wall fruity smoothies. These goodies aren’t just thirst lovers, as you will be able to find your favoured of ‘conscience’ that poses the question, ‘what quenchers made from fresh fruits as they can be drinks along with a spectrum of creative menu would you like to do before you die?’ very filling at the same time. Our top two picks of sandwiches. All in all, Pickle & Fig is the are the Mango Passion Smoothie, a mixture of perfect choice for those who prefer a healthier We were treated to a complete set of goodies mango, passion fruit, banana and pineapple, and lighter meal option with a very chilled-out on our first visit to Pickle & Fig. Our spread and the Goji Me Smoothie, a concoction of goji environment. included two types of sumptuous sandwiches, berries, apple, pineapple and yogurt.
Crab in a wrap
KL LIFESTYLE l 31 Eat, Drink Enjoy glasses of sinful concoctions and equally delectable & Be Merry dishes at these favourite bars and pubs. By : Marlina Azmi
Tom, Dick & Harry’s
Tom, Dick and Harry’s opened their first outlet in Taman Tun Dr Ismail years ago and successfully won the hearts of the residents and others living outside the area. TTDI’s favourite neighbourhood drinking hole expanded their operations by opening their second branch at The Scott Garden. The biggest appeal of TDH is the fact that they have served more than a traditional bar would. One can find and array of fashionable cocktails alongside staple lagers together with a hearty list of pub grub.
Their specialties include pub classics like pigs in a blanket, porky fries (deep-fried sticks of luncheon meat). More porcine wholesomeness is found in their popular pork knuckle and their weekend big breakfast. Other fan favourites include the chicken crackers, breaded button mushroom, cheese steak sandwiches and their pies are also not to be missed.
Unit S-G-03A, The Scott Garden, Kompleks Rimbun Scott, 289, Old Klang Road, 60000 / 58100 Kuala Lumpur
Sid’s Pub
Sid’s Pubs are neighbourhood British pubs serving up good, hearty British pub grub and fresh, cold drinks in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Deliberately small and intimate, Sid’s Pubs are dotted around a variety of neighbourhoods, the idea being to provide a convivial feeding and watering hole close to home for residents of the area. The first Sid’s Pub opened in 2007, others following suit in close succession. Besides being dog and children friendly, warm and welcoming service is expected when you take a trip down to a Sid’s Pub. Regular patrons have grown accustomed to its hearty meals, good company and spirited chatter. They cook a mean pork burger with bacon and cheese topping that comes with their signature thick chips cooked to a lovely golden hue.
34 Lorong Rahim Kajai 14, TTDI, Kuala Lumpur 60000, M-5A The Village, Bangsar South, 2 Jalan 1/112H, Off Jalan Kerinchi, H2 Taman Tunku, Off Langkat Tunku, Bukit Tunku, Kuala Lumpur 50480, 10, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Damansara Heights 50480
32 l KL LIFESTYLE Circus A modern bistro by day and a cocktail lounge by night, Circus is the perfect new chic hangout for delicious food and yummy drinks. Offering an impressive menu of 60 choices of cocktails, Circus is situated in Pavilion’s newest lifestyle precinct Fashion Avenue Circus is strategically at the forefront of Pavilion KL’s Jalan Raja Chulan entrance and nearby the KLCC link bridge. Aside from the wide range of cocktails, they also offer a selection of wines that ranges from the classic to the avant-garde. The interior is completely chic with its ‘mood altering’ lighting effects and modern décor. Customers can also enjoy a puff or two from offer its cigar collection and it is quite a great pair with your favourite drink. Food is not just an additional attraction, it is also a main focus as they are equipped with a skilled chef, who’s expertise is international cuisine. Lot C3.10.01b, Level 3, Fashion Avenue, Pavilion, 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
Magnificent Fish & Chips Bar
The Magnificent Fish & Chips Bar has stood proudly (and busily) as one of the main attractions in Changkat Bukit Bintang for more than five years. It is still touted to be the city’s dedicated authentic fish and chips joint as it serves the dishes wrapped in newspaper. While elsewhere in the world, fish and chips are often seen as a cheap and cheerful meal, here you have to pay RM20 to RM45 for a single piece of battered fish but the fish served are of very high quality and cooked to perfection.
It is a stylish .mid-to-high end establishment, turning into something of a happening nightspot after the typical dinner crowds have turned in. The menu board offers much more than just fish. There are pies, sausages, fish cakes, curry sauce, mushy peas, and a huge ‘chippy’ breakfast on Sunday mornings.
28 Jalan Changkat Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
KL LIFESTYLE l 33 ucked in an alley opposite the entrance of Hartamas Shopping Centre Aji Don Tlies Warung Aji-Don Alley, a semi alfresco food stall offering a variety of wholesome local dishes. They have been around for almost a decade and all Alley these years, the main star is still, the infamous Johor ‘mee rebus’.
Mee Rebus
If you’re looking for a bowl of comfort food, the mee rebus is definitely it. Many who have tried it claim that it tastes just like the original ones in Johor. The Mee Rebus Baidali serves up a delicious spread of food and for RM4, you will be able to get a serving of their signature dish, which is a mix of mee rebus mamak and mee rebus Jawa. This bowl of goodness is filled with egg noodles complemented with a thick gravy served with sliced hardboiled egg, tofu, bean sprouts, chopped green chilli and garnished with pendaram (crunchy homemade prawn crackers). Our only complain is that the portion is a bit small which leaves you wanting more.
Popiah Basah
The Cita Rasa stall serves up signature small dishes including tauhu bakar, sotong kangkung and popiah basah also known as spring rolls. The popiah basah is as good as it can get. Featuring a standard combination of ingredients such as cooked turnip, juliennes of cucumber, bean sprouts and bits of omelette and fried crushed fritters slathered with a spicy and sweet bean sauce before it is rolled into a cylindrical wrap, the popiah basah is decently priced at RM3.50 for a set of 2.
34 l KL LIFESTYLE Nasi Ayam Penyet
The Nasi Ayam Penyet seems like the new must- have dish in a lot of stalls and restaurants. At RM5.80, Jajanan Jakarta’s plate of nasi ayam penyet is possibly one of the cheaper options in town. While the chicken is nicely fried and smashed and the sambal served is deliciously spicy, the rice served is, however, a let down. Overly cooked, dry and a bit too crispy, the white rice is almost a spoiler but the clear soup served with the rice set saves the day as it is tasty and helps to give the rice a bit more moisture.
Seafood Tom Yam Soup
The seafood tom yam soup from the Aji Don Alley Restaurant is a meal of its own. To our amazement, the standard bowl of soup has a lot of ingredients swimming in it including broccoli, clams, calamari, prawns, fish cakes and crabsticks. The mix of these ingredients are pretty spot on except for the crabsticks as we find it doesn’t help bring out any flavour in the soup at all but for RM5 for a bowl, it’s very much value for the money you spend.
KL LIFESTYLE l 35 Cocktails make a great company when you’re going through your ups and downs in life. Be it a night out with your best pals or a drinking session to drain away Cocktails your sorrows, a good cocktail never fail to do the trick. Here are a few sweet ones for those who are not a fan of the bitter taste of alcohol.
Techny-tini If you happen to be in the city centre, do check out the w xyz(SM) bar at the Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral for a glass of Techny-tini. The mix of Vodka citrus spritzer, ice cubes, red grapes and white wine, the cocktail is mildly sweet and tangy at the same time. But if wine is not your cuppa, then try the Hookah Alternative, which is a mixture of Gin, grapefruit cooler and fresh mint for a refreshing taste. w xyz(SM) bar is open from 12pm to 12am daily.
Address: Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral, No 5 Jalan Stesen Sentral, Kuala Lumpur
Honey Margarita There are many ways to enjoy the sweetness of honey and no honey lover will deny herself a Honey Margarita when chilling out at LOCO Mexican Bar & Restaurant in Changkat Bukit Bintang. The base of the Honey Margarita is a double shot of Jose Cuervo Tequilla, Triple Sec and Cointreau, and a shot of honey is included of course. LOCO Mexican Bar & Restaurant also serves other sweet margaritas like the Rock Melon Margarita as well as the Butterscotch Margarita. Both margaritas have the same base as the Honey Margarita, but with fresh melon purée and Butterscotch Schnapps respectively.
Address: LOCO Mexican Bar & Restaurant, 22 Changkat Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
Strawberry Margarita The Mezzanine Bar & Lounge at Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur serves many different kinds of alcohol beverages for you to indulge in, but if you’re in for something sweet, the Strawberry Margarita is definitely a must-try. This mix of Triple Sec, Tequila, sugar syrup and fresh strawberry is refreshingly sweet and will give you a tinge of happiness with every sip. The Mezzanine Bar & Lounge is open from 10am to 1am and in the evenings you can sip your drink while listening to the soft, live lounge music performance.
Address: Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur, No.4 Jalan Conlay, Kuala Lumpur
36 l KL LIFESTYLE 52 4 Luxe 44 51 48
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Another element of the New Zealand luxury experience that moves international visitors is the chance to interact with the indigenous culture in an authentic sense. Whether joining a Māori guide to walk in ancient Kauri forests or meeting a contemporary Māori artist in his own studio. The art of Maori carving 46 l KL LIFESTYLE Luxe Travel
Luxury Properties New Zealand’s first luxury property is still the best known multi-award winning Huka Lodge in Taupo that has hosted heads of state and Hollywood stars, and become world famous for its seclusion, unique environment and luxury experience. Image by: Huka Lodge Newer properties like The Farm at Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay, have quickly earned world-class status. The Cape Kidnappers golf course was recently voted top in the world by Britain’s Daily Telegraph newspaper.
At no extra cost is New Zealand’s natural asset, the landscape, with mountains, crystal-clear River Terrace, Huka Lodge lakes and rivers, wide open spaces and miles of sparkling blue seas. Luxury yachts and launches provide travellers with an exclusive floating Rat Race Escapees option to explore New Zealand by water, and Escaping the rat race is one of the main reasons there are hundreds of islands and secluded luxury travellers come to New Zealand and moorings within easy reach of the main centres. visitors list the seclusion, easily achieved privacy, restorative health benefits and infectious warmth Escaping the rat Cruise Market of the people as key factors. The cruise market is also on the up, and the “ current figure of nearly 100 luxury liners visiting One of the mistakes visitors commonly make race is one of the New Zealand each summer is set to increase as is not allowing enough time to enjoy the New cruise companies rise to world demand. Zealand experience and, despite the ease main reasons of travel and accessibility of facilities, people As well as the chance to sail the subtropical frequently say they wish they could stay longer. luxury travellers waters of the Bay of Islands in the north of New Zealand - where dolphins and whales are a With the chance to walk for days and not see come to New common sight - many liners take passengers on a another soul, fly in to a remote fishing spot hours dramatic journey into Milford Sound in Fiordland from civilisation, soak in a spa under the stars, Zealand... National Park where bush-clad peaks rise from entertain in a private lodge with your personal the still blue waters, waterfalls cascade hundreds chef, dine on your own freshly caught seafood of metres into deep coves, and wildlife abounds. and escape into anonymity - it’s easy to see why. ” Image by: Fraser Clements
Fraser Clements
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be Urban Wellness Kuala Lumpur’s uber-hip all-in-one wellness centre
By: Nicolette Ng
11/F Work @ Clearwater, Jalan Changkat Seamantan, Damansara Heights, 50490 KL T: +6 (03) 2095 1999 F: +6 (03) 2095 8718 E: [email protected]
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Oxygen chamber
fter a long week of non-stop interviews, back-to-back photoshoots and endless hovering over the keyboard, all I could ever wished Afor was a day off to pamper myself, and that was exactly what I got at be Urban Wellness!
Located on the eleventh floor of WORK@Clearwater in Damansara Heights, be Urban Wellness is a centre that employs a holistic and preventive approach to health, while harnessing breakthrough technologies that deliver expedient, measurable results. Its services Lounge area are divided into six different categories – be Whole, be Beautiful, be Pampered, be Rejuvenated, be Bionic and be Well.
Since I was there to chill and relax, I decided to skip the be Bionic section – a gym that offers the latest fitness equipment and accredited R.E.H.A.B. to motivate you and escalate your training – and headed straight to be Pampered for a Balinese massage. The Balinese massage is a strong full body massage that combines acupressure, reflexology, stretching and aromatherapy.
After just 60 minutes of massage, I could feel the difference in my body. My shoulders felt like a ton of weight was lifted off it and I was walking on cloud nine. My therapist definitely got the job done with flying colours without causing me to scream like a little schoolgirl due to excessive pressure.
With my very relaxed new self, I moved to be Rejuvenated to catch up with some sleep in the floatation tank. The floatation tank is used to eliminate external physical stimuli for a state of pure and profound sensory relaxation.
I had never been able to float in my life, so I was a bit worried about getting into the tank although the water was only knee deep. I guess I was more worried that I wouldn’t be able to float, but the therapist assured me otherwise. As I got into the sci-fi looking tank, I was told to lie on my back and just relax. I did exactly what I was told and in an instant, I was floating like a boei in the middle of the sea before falling into deep sleep. I couldn’t recall what happened after that, but I do remember waking up feeling more energetic, refreshed… and a tad bit Jacuzzi hungry. KL LIFESTYLE l 49 Luxe HEALTH After lunch, my day at be Urban Wellness resumed with be Beautiful where I had a 30-minute 4X Reshape treatment on the back of my thigh. The 4X Reshape simultaneously contour and shape the body while getting rid of stubborn cellulite. The therapist started the treatment with a vacuum-like machine, sucking on different sections on the back of my thigh repetitively followed by a massage by the therapist.
Combining RF, infra-red light, vacuum suction and massage, this leading FDA approved non-surgical device that effectively and safely contours, shapes and slims the body by reducing cellulite and firming action, is a hit in Hollywood.
Following my 4X Reshape treatment was a 30-minute 3D Glow facial. The treatment uses RF heat for volumetric tightening and collagen regeneration optimised to give you younger looking skin. Being a skeptic when it comes to beauty treatments, it took me only 30 minutes to see for myself and believe what a facial can actually do for your face. Now Floatation tank there’s no reason for me to say I have no time for facials anymore.
Then it was time to conclude my pampering day with a 60-minute session in the oxygen chamber. Commonly used by world-class athletes and celebrities, including the late Michael Jackson, the oxygen chamber dramatically improves oxygen delivery to tissues throughout the body to fully rejuvenate from within. Oxygen therapy speeds up the healing by four times, build peak performance and beauty.
If you’re claustrophobic, fret not. The friendly staff at be Urban Wellness will try their best to help you calm your nerves and find ways to make
sure you’re comfortable in the oxygen chamber.The Ritz-Carlton Suite Bathroom
After seven hours, five treatments and a whole lot of pampering, I left be Urban Wellness as a new person and ready to take on another round of non-stop routine work. If you don’t have seven hours to spare, be Urban Wellness has short and sweet programme that will suit your lifestyle, so there’s no reason for you to not make time to pamper yourself after a month of hard work.
Gym
Couple’s treatment room 50 l KL LIFESTYLE Luxe SHOPPING
Revolutionising Luxury Lifestyle
Enjoy the luxury of personal shoppers attending to your every need
ersonal shoppers have been widely engaged over the years even in Malaysia. Now the latest in luxury lifestyle is about to take off Pin Kuala Lumpur. Meet Luxury Personal Services (LPS), a company dedicated to offering customers the ultimate shopping indulgence. With offices already set up in Madrid and Hong Kong, they have decided to spread their services here in Kuala Lumpur as the launching pad for their Southeast Asia take over in revolutionising the shopping and luxury world.
LPS, a company dedicated to luxury services, offers a new change of lifestyle through image consultation for men and women, luxury travel tours mainly in Europe and US and managing invites to exclusive events and collection launches.
“We are dedicated to our customers’ satisfaction and are very committed to making their lives easier by assisting them in combining styles and creating overall looks, choosing unique jewellery pieces, helping them shop for important gifts, making travel arrangements and even providing the most exclusive experiences in the world,” says Sara García Arjona, managing director of Luxury Personal Services. Their sole mission is to make their clients feel like a real star, adapting them to new trends, and introducing them into an elite class of society by putting styles together that do will surely turn heads their way at any occasion.
“We are also partners with a very unique and exclusive club in Madrid, Spain called Luxury Purple Club. The idea behind each of these clubs is to create private spaces where all members are able to customise their tailored suits while having exclusive beverages, get limited edition jewellery pieces, run private business meetings and celebrations with friends, enjoy international gastronomic adventures, attend art exhibitions, as well as receive international investment advice from our experts and most importantly, this club allows a healthy interaction with all of our pristine members at an international level which facilitates business opportunities,” she continues.
These services made available in the most exclusive shopping malls is set to draw a large number of attention from high end shoppers in Kuala Lumpur. For more enquiries of their services, contact Sara G. Arjona at [email protected].
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The Smokehouse, Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur Indulge in the resurrection of a traditional lifestyle right here in Kuala Lumpur By: Marlina Azmi
Lounge
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Bar
avishing its guests with the utmost comfort is the top of The Majestic Hotel’s priority list. It caters to the guests’ whims and fancies by Lensuring ample amount of facilities and services are made available at all times and continuously works hard to guarantee a top notch, memorable and comfortable stay at the hotel. Built in the 1930s and located right across from the Moorish-inspired old railway station, The Majestic used to be known as one of South-East Asia’s grandest hotels and, indeed, with its recent reopening, following a massive refurbishment, it looks set to reclaim that throne once again.
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur is a smoke-free hotel but to cater to its smoking guests needs, YTL Hotels created a Smokehouse in one of the smaller buildings within the hotel grounds. The Smokehouse is inspired by the style of gentlemen’s clubs of 18th century London’s West End, which played the role as entertainment hubs for the aristocrats. These clubs were segmented based on their members’ interests; whether it was politics, literature, art, travel or even sports. Coffee place
These clubs played a role of second homes for men, as they would go to relax, socialise with their peers, dine and even spend the night there. Expatriates visiting London would use clubs such as the East India Club or the Oriental Club as a base back then too. Women also started their own clubs at the end of the 19th century, which included the Ladies Institute and Ladies Athenaeum that turned out to be quite a hit.
The tradition of the original gentleman’s club continues to flourish and the opening of more modern but private clubs such as The Groucho Club, Soho House and Home House in London and other parts of Britain is an on-going lifestyle trend. The Smokehouse, reminiscent of an old gentleman’s club where ladies too can join in the fun, provides an informal and inviting venue for guests and members to socialise and interact. The venue is aptly decked with sitting areas and reading rooms with newspapers and other reading material, giving guests an additional area to rest and relax. The Smokehouse is more than just a spot to light Lounge
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up a cigar or catch up on reading. Hotel guests will get to enjoy services including a gentleman’s tailor, where guests will be able to have their shirts, trousers, jackets and suits tailored without having to leave the hotel. Measurements and fittings are all done at the Smokehouse to ensure that guests will get the perfect fit fuss free.
Downstairs, you’ll be transported to the good old days in the grooming room, the gentlemen’s only barber, Truefitt and Hill, where guests will be able to get professional hair services to look their best for events, weddings or business meetings. Established in 1805, London-based Truefitt & Hill maintains the world’s oldest barbershop and offers a range of products that come from 200 years of research and intimate customer relationships. You will also find the Screening Room, a lounge that screens black-and-white movies and adorned with maroon leather armchairs which enhance the rustic theme of the gentleman’s club.
You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy these amazing facilities and services as The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur offers special membership packages for Kuala Lumpur’s ladies and gentlemen. For just a nominal sum per annum, all members are entitled to a complimentary meal for two at one of the restaurants, Contango, a 2D/1N stay in the Colonial Suite of The Majestic Wing and access to the gymnasium and swimming pool. Members of The Gentlemen’s Club will also get to enjoy 12 sessions of barber services at Truefitt & Hill, membership to the LHW Leader’s Club, part of the Leading Hotels of the World, a personalised smoking jacket and a 20 per cent discount off liquor and cigars at The Smokehouse.
Cigar room
54 l KL LIFESTYLE Card room World War Z
Opening: June 20 We can never get enough of zombie apocalypse flicks and World War Z is set to enthral moviegoers with its spin on a post apocalyptic world. The story centres on United Nations employee Gerry Lane (Brad Pitt), who traverses the world in a race against time to stop the zombie pandemic that is toppling armies and governments, and threatening to decimate humanity itself.
Cast: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Eric West, James Badge Dale, David Morse and Matthew Fox.
Monstrous Blockbuster Hits
Zombie movies just won’t stay dead. This month sees the release of another promising blockbuster hit, World War Z, starring Hollywood heartthrob, Brad Pitt. Here are our top three picks for the most iconic zombie flicks ever made.
Night of the Living Dead (1968) The dead come back to life and eat the living in this classic low- budget film by the zombie master, George Romero. The zombies are much slower but still pose a threat to the people who have barricaded themselves inside a rural house in an attempt to survive the night.
28 Days Later (2002) Danny Boyle’s horror flick not only gives rise to the fast zombie, it also makes time in the midst of the violence to humanise the fellow travellers. Sandwiched between undead fists full of human meat are touching scenes in supermarkets, where strangers learn to trust one another. And it only makes it that much more sad when they’re killed off.
Zombieland (2009) Sassy, smart and hilariously funny, Zombieland works because it addresses the many problems with so many zombie movies; characters always break the most important rules. But not in this film, which follows a group of strangers embarking across country looking for a safe haven.
108 l KL LIFESTYLE After Earth
Opening: June 20 One thousand years after cataclysmic events forced humanity’s escape from Earth, Nova Prime has become mankind’s new home. Legendary General Cypher Raige (Will Smith) returns from an extended tour of duty to his estranged family, ready to be a father to his 13-year-old son, Kitai (Jaden Smith). When an asteroid storm damages Cypher and Kitai’s craft, they crash-land on a now unfamiliar and dangerous Earth. As his father lies dying in the cockpit, Kitai must trek across the hostile terrain to recover their rescue beacon.
Cast: Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Isabelle Fuhrman and Zoe Kravitz.
Jurassic Park 3D
Opening: May 30 There are just so many ways to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Jurassic Park and releasing a 3D version of the epic film is a brilliant one indeed. You could go on and on about the nostalgia level but one thing is certain, Jurassic Park stands the test of time on every level. With the remastering of the epic into a state-of-the-art 3D format, Steven Spielberg introduces the three-time Academy Award-winning blockbuster to a new generation of moviegoers and allows longtime fans to experience the world he envisioned in a way that was unimaginable during the film’s original release.
Cast: Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Samuel L. Jackson and Richard Attenborough.
Jurassic Park Trivia
In 1994, the film won all three Academy Awards it was nominated for: Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing.
Michael Crichton originally conceived a screenplay about a graduate student who recreates a dinosaur he continued to wrestle with his fascination with dinosaurs and cloning until he began writing the novel, Jurassic Park.
Jurassic Park was broadcast on television for the first time on May 7, 1995, following the April 26 airing of The Making of Jurassic Park. Around 68.12 million people in the US tuned in to watch, garnering NBC a 36 percent share of all available viewers that night.
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