Colonial Luxury of

PENANGBattambang’s Laidback Beauty

Where to shop forAsian Antiquities

July 2016 | Issue 2

PLEASE DO NOT TAKE ME HOME.IF YOU MISS ME, READ ME ONLINE AT WWW.GOASIAPLUS.COM

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Editor’s Note On The Radar

Bucket List Road Less Taken Shopping Gems

Out & About Now Boarding:Martin Yan

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Contents

26 27 30Antique Antics The Suitcase Essential

ConnectionsBreaking Down

Banana Leaf

FYI:Kuala Lumpur

Penang’s Heritage Hotels

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I always had a soft spot for old things. Old music like catchy songs from the Beatles, vintage fashion like the dramatic dresses by Jacques Fath and old architecture like the Sultan Ahmet Mosque in Istanbul. There is a lot of charm, history and a hint of mystery with the old that people can learn from and even emulate.

Take for example the city of Kuala Lumpur. Though I lived here most of my life and enjoy snacking on the steps of KLCC Park like any other person, the old part of KL is a place I hold dear to my heart even though I only discovered its beauty later in my life.

The architecture of the older buildings designed by Arthur Hubback with its elegant spires and arched balconies are a sight to behold when I’m walking around Chinatown. Yes, I mentioned walking because if you are smart, you would not drive around Chinatown. You would park beneath Dataran Merdeka and you walk because the traffic there occurs all the time, not just during rush hour. So for a walk back in time, read our origin story on Kuala Lumpur and learn more about its rise to become the capital of Malaysia where you will come across history book characters like Kapitan Ah Loy and Frank Swettenham.

If you fancy some antique knick knacks to rival Ariel and her cavern of ‘thingamabobs’, we travelled around to places like Mumbai and Hong Kong to find kitschy antiques and traditional furniture for you to discover (and

eventually bring back home to your grandma).

Our main feature story takes us to the quaint and lovely island of Penang where we look into some luxurious accommodations inside colonial buildings so you can get a taste of how it is like to live in a place of history.

We did not forget about the foodies and this month, we give you a delicious spread on banana leaf. Not just your average ‘best-banana- leaf- in-town’ article but a breakdown on the major condiments

and side dishes in a banana leaf meal. Those deep fried bitter guards have a name, folks.

I end with a wish of happy travels to everyone planning a trip for the upcoming Hari Raya holidays. Don’t forget to go easy on the peanut sauce during the visits to open houses. Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri to all!

Lots of love,

Aishah AzaliEditor

EDITOR’s note

The views expressed in the articles published are not necessarily those of Publishcom Asia Sdn Bhd (963236–P). While every reasonable care is taken in compiling the magazine, the publisher shall not be held liable for any omission, error or inaccuracy. Please notify the publisher in writing of any such omission, error or inaccuracy. Editorial contributions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender’s risk. The publisher cannot accept any responsibility for loss or damage. All rights reserved by Publishcom Asia Sdn

Bhd (963236–P). No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the publisher’s permission in writing. KDN PP 19019/05/2016 (034482)

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EDITOR– AISHAH AZALI

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CONTRIBUTORS– RACHEL FONG, AJA NG, THANA BALAKRISHNAN

& SC CHUA

PHOTOGRAPHERS– FADZA ISHAK & AZUL SIDEK

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SIPPING THE SAHARA

LOT 10 CELEBRATES 1MALAYSIA MEGA SALE CARNIVAL

A COLOURFUL 1ST BIRTHDAY

ON THE RADAR

Sipping tea takes a Middle Eastern twist with TWG Tea exclusive Moroccan Sahara Tea that brews sandy spices with luxurious tea leaves. Taste that hint of wild orange flower and Valley of Roses blended with bitter almond to get the deliciousness of Southern Morocco in a teacup. Available at all TWG Tea stores in Malaysia. www.TWGTea.com

Their minimalist watches of rose gold and silver became a must-have accessory among the artistic crew and now, Malaya & Co. are expanding the colour choices of their signature nylon straps with The Pulau Series. The team introduces shades inspired by the tropics with colours like orange, turquoise, lilac and blue for a vibrant injection this summer season. Available at Acquire Store in Bangsar Village 2 and Actually Store Singapore.www.malayaco.com

The 1Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival is well under way with shopping malls everywhere offering attractive prizes on top of the discounts. Lot 10 Shopping Centre is offering vacation getaways to destinations like Pangkor Laut Resort and Tanjong Jara Resort. How to win? Well shoppers with a minimum purchase of RM100 in a single receipt are entitled to a lucky draw for a chance to win the getaways. Happy shopping! www.facebook.com/Lot10KL

On The Radar

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THE GRAND REOPENING OF PENINSULA BEIJING

LOBSTER WITH YOUR BRIYANI H&M OPENS AT GATEWAY@KLIA2

Get a taste of luxury at the newly renovated Peninsula Beijing Hotel unveils its stunning new design by renowned Hong Kong designer Henry Leung. Their 525 rooms have been reduced to 230 suite-style rooms offering separate bedroom and living room spaces making their guestrooms the biggest one in Beijing.

The feel of the refurbished hotel gives an ode to the classic times of the early 1900s thanks to its immaculate details on the ceilings, walls and staircase railings. On top of that, the hotel stays true to heritage by incorporating original artworks by Chinese artists throughout the space.www.beijing.peninsula.com

The fragrant and spicy briyani gam which is a gem of Johor cuisine takes a fine dining turn with the addition of lobster. This is the brainchild of the popular lobster eatery of Bangsar, Pince & Pints. The Lobster Briyani Gam sees the infusion of luxurious and exotic spices without straying from the authentic briyani gam recipe. But note that this is a limited edition menu and will only be available until July 17.www.pinceandpints.com.my

Forgot to pack your swimsuit? Need an extra scarf? Well, fret not as fashion retailer H&M has opened their 27th store at gateway@klia2 for your last minute shopping fix. Shop for women, men and kids as the H&M store feature clothes and accessories for all shoppers. Seems like gateway@klia2 knows how to pick the right brands for people that want to past the time before boarding! www.hm.com.my

On The Radar

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DIGITAL CRIME BUSTING BACKPACKS

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS IN KUALA LUMPUR

TRAVEL EASY TOUR APPS

It is worth investing in a good laptop backpack especially for business travelers that store their work in their laptops. Taking it up a notch, Targus introduces the ingenious Terminal T-II Series backpack with anti-radio frequency identification (RFID) theft technology. The backpack works to protect sensitive personal and banking information from being hacked. It even has a built-in mobile charging compartment for power bank storage so you can charge your devices anywhere at any time.www.targus.com

Holiday Inn Express has finally landed in Kuala Lumpur with a 383-room hotel conveniently located along Jalan Raja Chulan. It is the first of the five Holiday Inn Express hotel openings in Malaysia with amenities like the Free Express Start breakfast or a Grab & Go option to start the day. Celebrate their opening and get their advance purchase rate from RM160++ per night with an additional 5% discount for IHG Rewards Club members.www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress

Viator under the TripAdvisor company has been providing curated trip activities like private guides, tours, and attractions in more than 1,500 destinations worldwide. For travel tips on-the-go, their app for iOS and Android users allow travelers to book skip the line experiences and easy access to attractions and tours even if its last minute. All of this, with just a click of a button. Download the app now for easy travels. www.viators.com

On The Radar

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22 - 24 JulyFuji Rock Festival, Japan

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the famous rock festival that will feature international rock acts like Beck, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Sigur Ros and James Blake.

www.fujirock-eng.com

12 JulySam Tsui & Kurt Schneider Live in KLYouTube sensations, Sam and Kurt will bring their ingenious mixes of your favourite songs to KL in an intimate gig in the heart of the city. The two are known for their medleys and mash-ups of popular radio tunes and with over 9 million combined YouTube followers.

Level 4 rooftop, Avenue K www.ticketpro.com.my

Out & About

14 - 17 JulyLet It Be Relive Beatlemania and experience the band throughout the decades starting from their humble beginnings to the height of the career before disbanding. Watch their notable past performances on Ed Sullivan and Abbey Road to popular tunes like Hard Day’s Night, Strawberry Fields and Get Back. Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centrewww.ticketcharge.com

16 JulyJolin Tsai Play World Tour The queen of Mandopop, Jolin Tsai just kicked off her world tour and is coming to Malaysia to promote her album Play. Expect an extravagant show as it is directed by Travis Payne and Stacy Walker, the same duo that worked with Lady Gaga and 2NE1 for their headlining tours.

Stadium Merdeka, KLwww.ticketcharge.com

25 JulySelena Gomez Revival TourA big production of dancers, staging and a slew of glamourous wardrobe changes will be seen on Selena Gomez’s big budget Revival tour. The Disney alumni will perform in Malaysia to promote her latest album, Revival featuring hits like Good For You and Hands To Myself. Malawati Indoor Stadium, Shah Alamwww.ticketbis.com.my

29 July - 28 AugLittle Black Dress The Georgetown Festival 2016 is pushing the envelope this year featuring a photography showcase of the little black dress where the clothes are painted on the body instead of worn. A tasteful kind of photo exhibition, catch the body paintings of Sammi Lim and photography by Shahril Saifol.

Chulia Court, Georgetown Penangwww.georgetownfestival.com/event/little-black-dress

22 - 24 JulySolo Batik Carnival, Indonesia

Be dazzled by the display of batiks on massive headpieces and glittering costumes as the performers walk down Slamet Riyadi Purwosari road in a colourful display of song and dance.

www.indonesia-tourism.com

OUT & ABOUT

Across The Pond

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The hottest & most anticipated events of the month in Malaysia and beyond

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Now Boarding with Martin Yan

Interviewed by Aishah Azali · Photos by Getty & Adobe Stock

The culinary master than brought the versatility of Asian cuisine to a global stage; Martin Yan has been helping aspiring cooks with his tagline ‘Yan Can Cook, So Can You’. We got a chance to chat with the Master Chef on his travels for his shows and

his favourite vacation spot for some relaxation.

You started your culinary training in Hong Kong. What do you find amazing about the city?

In the old days, Hong Kong was one of the first truly international cities. When I came there, I was amazed to see the best of ingredients. Even the best seafood from around the world, you can find it in Hong Kong.

Where was the last place you travelled?

Penang. I like Penang because the char kuey teow is probably the best in the world. Also, Penang has the world class Spice Garden where they have a cooking school there. Last time I was there, I took some classes to learn how to use different Malaysian spices.

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You’ve been in the business for so long yet you have the drive to learn more...

You never stop learning. Every time you travel, you will learn something new. There is a Chinese saying when you travel 10000 miles, it is just like you are reading 10000 books. So every time I travel, I learn.

Where was a place that you recently visited that you would recommend to others?

I think Sabah because I love the waters and the unspoiled nature.

Where is a place you hold dearly in your heart?

Home in San Francisco.

Do you recall a place where you find the people very welcoming?

I find the people of Thailand and Philippines the friendliest. It is part of their culture to be friendly.

Where in your opinion is the best place to get authentic Chinese cuisine?

When you talk about variety and quality of ingredient, by far is Hong Kong. As a chef, it does not matter how good you are, you have to start with the freshest and best ingredients and Hong Kong does it well.

If you had the time to go on a spontaneous trip, where would you go?

I love Hawaii. You know why? Hawaii has five major islands and each one has a different personality, scenery and weather. The islands are beautiful and lush. If you want to see the volcano, you go to Hawaii. If you want to relax and play golf, you go to Hawaii. Plus there are not many people there because it’s right in the middle of nowhere so it makes it easier for me to relax.

When you travel somewhere new, what attracts you to go there?

I’m a man of curiosity. I love to explore, I’m an adventurer. Every time I visit a country, I would always find something new, something exciting, something unique. This is why people travel. So the sense of discovery and the sense of adventure is something I look forward to.

Do you prefer places with warm weather or cold?

Cold. I live in San Francisco which is always cool.

What is exciting about San Francisco?

First, it is a city with personality. It is also a melting pot city with people from all over the world. It is a beautiful place because you have the winery, the pacific coast and the mountains. It has ski resorts and the snow-capped mountains are just a couple of hours drive.

Now Boarding

The year was 1857. A group of 87 Chinese tin miners was brought from Lukut to Kuala Lumpur by the Malay Chief of Klang, Raja Abdullah bin Raja Jaafar and his brother Raja Juma’at. Their purpose? To open up new tin mines in a settlement that was slowly thriving as the most important tin-producing settlement up the Klang River. The miners set up camp at the meeting point of the Klang and Lumpur (now Gombak) rivers, naming the spot Kuala Lumpur – in Bahasa Malaysia, it means “muddy confluence”, an apt description of the settlement of that time. The spot where it all began is overlooked today by the city’s oldest mosque, Masjid Jamek.

The discovery of tin in the area further attracted other miners. Soon, tin mines were established in different locations: Ampang, Pudu, Batu. By then, Kuala Lumpur emerged as a boomtown of opportunities, attracting not only opportunists but also a network of criminal gangs. Inter-gang rivalry between the Chinese settlers threatened to destroy the mining town. There was also the constant threat of flooding. And between 1867 to 1874, a series of conflicts – known as the Selangor Civil War – caused by the struggle for the control of the revenues from the tin mines as well as political power further destroyed the town.

Its name literally means “muddy confluence” in Bahasa Malaysia but through its progress over the decades, Kuala Lumpur has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s most populous cosmopolitan city. Here is a brief history of how it all began for this capital city.

WRITTEN BY SC CHUAPHOTOS BY AZUL SIDEK

City Origins:Kuala Lumpur

While many of the heritage buildings have evolved over the decades, a few in the area – now known as Petaling Street – still retain the architecture of that time.

FYI

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Clockwise from left: The Sin Seng Nam building, Kuala Lumpur Textile Museum, Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, Medan Pasar, Sultan Abdul Samad Building & Kuala Lumpur Music Museum.

To maintain order, the local Sultan appointed a Kapitan China (Chinese Captain). It was the third Kapitan who made all the difference to the prosperity of Kuala Lumpur. Yap Ah Loy (Kapitan China from 1868 to 1885) and his tenacity kept things in check – he kept peace with help from the policemen. He also helped rebuild the city a few times after being burnt to the ground and destroyed by floods.

While many of the heritage buildings have evolved over the decades, a few in the area – now known as Petaling Street – still retain the architecture of that time, including several temples like Chan See Shu Yuen, Sze Ya Temple, the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, and the popular Hainanese coffee shop Sin Seng Nam (now Kafe Old Market Square), which is perhaps Kuala Lumpur’s best example of the pre-war years located along Medan Pasar. In 1888, Central Market was erected in the area, and originally used as a wet market. But today, it is a landmark for Malaysian culture and heritage.

The British stepped into the picture in 1874 with the arrival of a Resident, Frank Swettenham. He too is credited for Kuala Lumpur’s growth as a capital where he developed the city rapidly by introducing a road system to increase its accessibility, resulting in today’s Jalan Ampang, Jalan Pudu and Petaling Street. The city’s oldest railway station, the KL Railway Station, was built in 1910 to connect Kuala Lumpur with Klang. In 1917, the Malayan Railway Administration Building was built just opposite it.

Swettenham was also responsible for choosing Kuala Lumpur as the administrative centre and ordered the construction of new buildings in brick and tiles, developing Kuala Lumpur into a major urban centre. Under the British, government buildings and living quarters were erected, including the police headquarter now in Bukit Aman and Merdeka Square.

Over the years of Japanese ruling (1942 to 1945) and British administration once more, Kuala Lumpur slowly progressed through war, hardship and communist insurgency. In 1957, the first Malayan flag was raised on the grounds of Merdeka Square, marking the country’s independence from British rule. Today, the colonial buildings surrounding this area still remain – Sultan Abdul Samad Building, the cricket field and the Royal Selangor Club.

Fast forward to present day: Kuala Lumpur is still the country’s economic and business centre, a far cry from its former mining days. Interspersed with these heritage buildings are impressive modern structures like the Petronas Twin Towers and world-class shopping malls. Many historical areas like Petaling Street, Central Market, Masjid Jamek remain as popular landmarks, frequented by tourists searching for a slice of history, where it all began for the capital city.

FYI

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HotelPenang’s HeritageOne of the things that have become a defining part of the Penang landscape is its historical buildings, which appear to be frozen in a time long gone. As George Town inches towards its 8th anniversary of being awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status, we take a look at three of these such establishments that have been given a new lease on life as opulent hotels.

Written by Rachel Fong · Photos by Fadza Ishak & Macalister Mansion

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Penang

Macalister Mansion

As one drives down Macalister Road, it’s impossible not to take notice the

sprawling Macalister Mansion, a 100-year-old manor that has been reborn as an upscale boutique hotel. Named after Sir Norman Macalister, one of Penang’s first British governors, it has maintained its British colonial exterior while attracting modern tourists with its more adventurous and fun-spirited interior design concept. Eight suites are all you’ll find here, as part of the hotel’s emphasis on maintaining exclusivity.

Apart from accommodation, many also visit Macalister Mansion for the Dining Room - their in-house restaurant which specialises in envelope-pushing gourmet cuisine. Game to add new flavours to your palate’s repertoire? Dishes like Blue Lobster with Peanut and Vietnamese Spring Roll Stick on Sugar Cane are just among the many possibilities.

Once your appetite has been sated, don’t forget to make your way to The Living Room (the cafe), or choose from one of Penang’s largest wine collections at The Cellar (the bar). Room rates start from RM999 per night.

228 Macalister Road, 10400 George Town, Penang

Website: macalistermansion.com

Facebook: facebook.com/macalister.mansion

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Penang

Campbell House106 Lebuh Campbell, 10100 Georgetown, Penang

A former shop house turned boutique hotel, Campbell

House sits on the corner connecting Campbell Street and Cintra Street in George Town. First built in 1903, the couple who now run the establishment retained its original commercial facade as a nod to its century-long history. Once inside, guests will be pleased to see that the attention to colonial design detail perseveres, thanks to quaint stained glass windows and wooden accents. All in all, there are 11 suites, and they run the gamut of design styles that traditional Malaysian housing is known for, from Burmese and Indonesian to Indian and colonial.

Street food is all around you from the first foot out the door, so if you want something a little different, Campbell House has it in the form of Il Bacaro, the in-house Italian restaurant. Alternatively, guests can arrange for their orders to be sent up to the rooftop terrace, where they can wine and dine while enjoying views of the bustling town. Room rates start from RM400 per night.

Website: campbellhousepenang.com

Facebook: facebook.com/campbellhousepenang

An architectural offspring of Malaysian Chinese

culture, 1881 Chong Tian Hotel’s first incarnation was an accommodation for well-off merchants who found themselves on the shores of Penang for trade and business. However, it fell into disrepair over the years and was only recently rescued by local magnate Seah Kok Heng, who restored the hotel to its former glory.

11 private, 19th-century antique-furnished suites await guests, each one of them wittily named after various clans that migrated to the area in the 1800s. The homage to traditional Chinese culture continues in the form of the in-house restaurant, which serves the best in Chinese cuisine, whether it’s Cantonese, Teochew, or various other regional Chinese dishes. Room rates start from RM588 per night.

1881 Chong Tian Hotel38, 40, 42, Jalan Pintal Tali, 10100 Georgetown, Penang

Website: 1881chongtian.com

Facebook: facebook.com/1881chongtian

#LocalTipsVisit the Tropical Fruit Farm, located in Teluk Bahang to learn about and taste rare and exotic local fruits through a comprehensive tour and

hearty buffets.

Ride the Penang Hop On Hop Off Bus to tour the town. It has two routes, the City Route and Beach Route, which take you to 13 and 22 hotspots respectively for a

reasonable fare.

For a taste of what the local hipsters are all about, head to Hin Bus Depot Art Centre. It’s an art exhibition centre which also

houses a cosy cafe .

1. 2. 3.

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Penang

Bucket List

Detoxing Should Be a Holiday Not a Liquid Beverage

Hold the juices because detoxing has turned into a getaway as Asia is full of wellness retreats to rejuvenate your mind and soul. So pack up your yoga mat as we take a journey

towards a healthier well-being at these luxurious wellness resorts.

Written by Aishah Azali · Photos by Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & The Farm at San Benito

The Farm aT San BeniToBatangas, Philippines

Now this holistic sanctuary is located in an idyllic setting of a coconut plantation, equipped with luscious villas and impressive wellness programs. Guests that want to up their fitness game can opt for the Farm Fitness program featuring a plethora of fitness regimes from Muay Thai to aqua aerobics. It even comes with an ‘Alkaline Diet’ plan so you eat the part as well. Convenient enough, patrons that do not have the means to leave their kids can bring them along as The Farm provides children activities and free stays for kids under the age of 12.

www.thefarmatsanbenito.com

Kamalaya WellneSS SancTuary & holiSTic Spa reSorTKoh Samui, Thailand

The southern coastline of Koh Samui is home to an award-winning wellness retreat that blends over 70 eastern and western healing therapies. The folks at Kamalaya focus on medically-based detoxification programs as well as programs for weight loss and stress relief. There is even a yoga package for yogis that want to deepen their knowledge of yoga and get Ayurveda massages for 7 days. We found their stress and burnout programs interesting for people that need help to take a step back and replenish their spirits.

www.kamalaya.com

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Road Less Taken

The Laidback City of BattambangAn artsy part of Cambodia with charming French colonial architecture and a dazzling untouched countrysideWritten by Aishah Azali · Photos by Getty & Bambu Hotel

HOW TO GET THEREThe water road through the Sangkar River is the best way to travel here during the wet season for a picturesque journey. There are no scheduled flights to Battambang so your best bet is a 5-hour bus trip Phnom Penh which are available daily.

WHERE TO STAYBambu Hotel is a villa-style hotel in a refurbished colonial building. Be enamored by their classy interior and laidback rooms. Artsy and different can be found at Bric-a-Brac that host uniquely decorated rooms and a well-stocked bar called the Libations Bar that serves homemade rillettes.

WHAT TO EATKhmer cuisine is delectable and the presence of French cuisine elevates your choices. We urge to nosh on the steamed fish curry called Amok as it is known to originate from the Battambang area. Restaurant wise, Jaan Bai is known for its delectable Khmer tapas-sized dishes. For some Khmer-French fusion, the Pomme D’Amour is a favourite eatery of the expat community.

WHAT TO DOExplore the countryside of Battambang on a bicycle to get closer to its untouched nature and quaint villages. Soksabike is a tour company that provides full or half day tours to get the best Cambodian back road experience.

Pop by Khmer Art Space for exhibitions by local artists inspired by the beauty of the province. The Phare Ponleu Selpak is a circus troupe where troubled kids are given the opportunity to train in circus acts by local professionals. They do tours in Cambodia so be sure to check out their schedule.

Battambang has a quirky railway with a bamboo train powered

by a small engine that locals use to shuttle rice and livestock and

humans too.

One of the caves of Phnom Sampeu is the Killing Cave

that has turned into a temple with a memorial made up of

human bones looked after by a Buddha statue.

Battambang is known for its large and juicy pursat oranges. Green on the outside with an

orange flesh, the pursat orange are easy to get at your local

markets. Harvest time is from June until August.

#localtips

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NALAThe name means ‘successful’ in Swahili but Nala’s contemporary design stems from the wealth of Malaysia’s melting pot of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures. The bright colours are reminiscent of the tropical hues of the Malaysian shores that are tastefully incorporated into whimsical patterns on everything from shopper bags to notebooks. Founder Lisette Scheer began the company as a way to revive the art of letter-writing that grew into a stationary collection. Now the Nala brand has expanded into home décor and even fashion items.

Where to get: Main store at 8A, Jalan Kemuja, Bangsar and selected gift shops in Penang, Langkawi and Melaka.

GADIS MANISGadis Manis takes Malaysia’s diversity and incorporates them into charming gifts and accessories. Its creator Florence Lambert Lee has spent more than 2 decades in Malaysia where her designs feature 3 girls, Gowry the Indian, Yati the Malay and Ah Chik the Chinese. The 3 girls make quite an appearance and are stitched onto wristlets, painted on t-shirts and carved into silver bookmarks. For a taste of Malaysia in your everyday knick knacks that are made in Malaysia, Gadis Manis is the shop to visit before heading home.

Where to get: Main store in Central Market, the Petronas Gift shop in KLCC and selected hotels in Penang and Langkawi.

www.naladesigns.com

www.gadismanismalaysia.com

The Nala store shares a roof with one of KL’s chicest coffee joints, DR.Inc (pronounced ‘drink’) where they serve a mean cup of joe and foods like key lime pie and quiche. Check out their Facebook page as they organise monthly food markets catered to the artisanal palette. www.facebook.com/drincbangsar

Artisanal Souvenirs

Tastefully designed in the cutest of colours and patterns with a nod to the Malaysian culture, we look into two artisans and their adorable take on local souvenirs. No more fridge magnets and keychains here. Written by Aishah Azali · Photos by Nala & Gadis Manis

Shopping Gems

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MUMBAIThe 150-year-old Chor Bazaar is a buzzing labyrinth of antique and vintage vendors – plan a day out to explore what it has to offer and be wowed by old gramophones, clocks, cameras and even wrought iron furniture. Over in the north, Oshiwara Antique Market in Jogeshwari offers a similar array of items, but at a smaller scale. For a more sedate shopping experience, Moorthy’s Antique Shop offers an organized and cool journey back into time, through Indian and Colonial wooden furniture, metalware and sculptures.

JAKARTA With its sprawling suburbs and legendary traffic, it’s good news that Jalan Surabaya in central Jakarta offers an antique, collectibles and flea market all in one street. Everything from manuscripts to maps, machinery, tapestries, sculptures, masques, metalwork and porcelain are up for grabs, along with items salvaged from shipwrecks and parts of the ships themselves! Take a taxi so that you don’t get lost, and be wary of fakes and don’t forget to bargain.

INDONESIA

HONG KONGAlso known as ‘Antique Street’, the ancient Hollywood Road and the parallel Upper Lascar Row, or ‘Cat Street’, is a popular spot for antique hunters who bargain with poker-faced dealers over delicate chinaware, brass, marble and jade statues, Ming dynasty furniture, art, lacquer- ware and paintings.

CHINA

INDIA

Antique Antics

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Antique AnticsAsia is a treasure trove for antique hunters - never be afraid

to explore the tiniest stores and don’t forget to bargain!

MELAKAMalaysia’s other UNESCO jewel promises wending waterways and vibrant ancient streets, all teeming with culture. Jonker Walk (aka Jalan Hang Jebat) is home to some touristy abominations no doubt, but some patience will lead you to the musty and cool dimness of Syarikat Abdul where you will find Dutch pottery, coins, jewellery and ceramics. On the parallel Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, a larger Syarikat Abdul houses everything from shutters and intricately carved doorframes, to gramophones, railway lamps and the like.

KUALA LUMPUR Don’t dismiss the capital city’s scrubbed up Central Market as a tourist trap. When you take the time to stroll through the corridors you will find some pretty legit antiques and collectibles at stores such as The Collectables shop. Expect to find heritage mini statues, porcelain, jewelry, brassware and more.

MALAYSIA

Antique Antics

Written by Aja Ng · Photos by Aishah Azali, Getty & Adobe Stock

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Clockwise from left: Jalan Surabaya in Jakarta, Hollywood Road in Hong Kong, Chor Bazaar in Mumbai, Antiques from Central Market.

T H E S U I T C A S EHoly Hydration

Travelling can take a toll on your skin from weather changes to long flights that suck your skin dry from moisture. Grab these moisturizing must-haves that will keep you hydrated from head

to toe. Did we mention that gorgeous dewy skin begins with a well-moisturised one?

Written by Aishah Azali · Photos by Sephora

The Suitcase

HANDSSephora Cherry Blossom Moisturising Hand CreamNever neglect to moisturise your hands as cold weather and even the constant use of sanitizers can leave them dry and chapped. For some fun, try different scents like the cherry blossom!

HAIRO&M Baume Base Protein Masque The change of humidity and the sun exposure making your hair dry? Well this bottle of miracle hair masque infused with apricot kernel oil and shea butter is optimum for continuous hair shine anywhere you go. Price: RM152

FACESkin Inc Pure Serum MistFor skin that is prone to redness and enlarged pores, this face mist is a miracle worker while helping with hydration. Skin Inc uses the mineral-rich Japanese hot spring water to refresh and moisturise the face while setting your makeup. Price: RM296

HAIR

FACE

HANDSEYESKate Somerville Goat Milk De-Puffing Eye BalmThe genius eye treatment comes in the travel friendly balm form, packed with goat milk powder and Manuka honey extract where users can just glide it under their eyes for hydration and reduce puffiness. Price: RM140

EYES

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Banana LeafThere are a lot of condiments, side dishes and curries when it comes to banana leaf. Here we spread the knowledge so the next time you take a bite of those fried long beans; you know exactly what it is called.

Written by Thanabalasingam Balakrishnan · Photos by Fadza Ishak

Breaking Down

Banana Leaf

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The use of banana leaf to serve food dates back 3000 years from South India. The benefits

of using banana leaf are still relevant today as the leaves are packed with the antioxidant polyphenol that helps prevent degenerative diseases. It is also chemical-free requiring just a light wipe with a damp cloth to make it ready for serving food. Plus, it is nice to have a bit of history and culture when it comes to fundamental things such as food.

We took a trip to ANZGAM (Australia New Zealand Graduates Association of Malaysia) Club House to get our banana leaf fix. The restaurant is tucked between the German School of Kuala Lumpur and Istara condominium along Lorong Utara at Section 14, Petaling Jaya. The great thing about this place is that it extends beyond the generic purview at large about South Indian Cuisine.

The crispy disc-shaped chip is traditionally made from black gram flour and a sprinkle of spices to add that much-needed texture to the banana leaf dish.

A banana leaf staple is the poriyal which means fried in Tamil. Shredded or diced vegetables are sautéed together with spices, turmeric and dried red chilies. We were served with a variation of vegetable poriyal from cabbage to okra to cucumber and our all-time favourite, the keerai or spinach.

The deep fried poriyal that we got were cauliflower, snake gourd and bitter gourd. All three were marinated with a masala paste, yogurt, fennel powder, red chili powder concoction and then deep fried. Absolutely divine when you have it together with beer!

POPPADUM

FRIED PORIYAL PORIYAL

Banana Leaf

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A Sambhar is a mixed vegetable gravy. Incidentally, the sambhar we had is slightly thicker than the traditional sambhar made at home. It is made with various vegetables like aubergines, carrots, yellow pumpkin together with fresh fried coarse ground spices for that added zing.

The chicken kuzhambu served was an aromatic one indeed. We could tell that freshly ground ingredients and spices were used. Fried curry leaves, onions, red chilies and garlic are tossed with tempering agents such as cinnamon sticks, star anise and fennel to bring out the spicy redolence. Once the spices have cooked, the chicken and tomatoes are marinated in them for intense flavour.

An aromatic soup consisting of tamarind juice, tomatoes, chilli pepper, cumin, steamed lentils and a plethora of spices to excite as well as cleanse your palate.

The pièce de résistance of this meal has got to be the secret chutney. Chutneys play an integral part of Indian food. Expect tangy tomato and onion-based chutney for this particular recipe. The owner would not divulge their secret recipe but rest assured the tempering taste of mustard seeds and curry leaves add more complexity to your meal.

Jaipur Curry House32, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 1, Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Petaling Jaya03-7728 2955Opens 9.00am to 10.30pm daily.

ANZGAM Club HouseLot 3, Lorong Utara B, Petaling Jaya03-7931 3380

Banana leaf lunch is served from 11.30am to 3pm daily

Vishal Food & Catering22, Jalan Scott off Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields, KL03-2274 0995Opens 7.30am to 10.30pm daily

SAMBHAR

CHUTNEY

CHICKEN KUZHAMBU

RASAM

WHERE TO EAT

Banana Leaf

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